Episode 390
JT closed his eyes feeling the hot spray overhead giving him a whole new reason
to wish hed hit snooze on his alarm clock earlier when it had gone off.
He was half tempted to stay in bed with Evie all day just wasting the day
away, but they had plans and he wasnt about to break them even for the
temptation sleep wouldve provided him. How he wouldve loved to
have been lost in the blankets and her arms, but there was too much ahead
of them for him to cave under pressure so to speak.
Just wake up, he mouthed to himself stepping forward to feel the
hot liquid spray of the shower assault his neck and shoulders. The water trailed
down over the tight muscles in his back, teasing over his spine. He pressed
his hand up against the shower wall grudgingly soaking up the assault the
water inflicted upon his body. It was almost too much to bear when his thoughts
were returning to the woman who was back in bed without him lost in her dreams.
Damn, he groaned feeling his blood boil, his body heating up at
the memory of how it felt to be holding her the previous evening. When he
thought about what it was like to kiss her, to hear her sighing his name in
soft cries of pleasure, he wondered why in the hell hed been torturing
himself when it came to making love to her. It wasnt as if he didnt
know what he was doing as hed prided himself on being a bit of an expert
where women were concerned. Sure, he hadnt always been on top of his
game, but over the years hed perfected the art of making love.
And what an art it was, he thought to himself imagining what it would be like
to take Evie to the places shed never been before--to be the man who
could open her up into a whole new world that could exist for only them. Even
now he felt the same lust hed fought to keep caged from within threatening
to surface and reveal just how weak he truly was. When he was near her it
took everything in him to do the right thing--to stay focused on what was
important--on how he needed to help her before they could fall into passion
with one another. Still yesterday hed been so very tempted and shed
certainly made an impact on him with the little time theyd spent in
bed with one another. Had they had a few more minutes with one another, he
wouldve shown her a whole hell of a lot more than he had up until the
point when Franklin had entered the scene.
Stop it JT! he finally mouthed to himself dipping his head down
underneath the water to clear his thoughts of Evie. If hed stood in
the shower spending his time thinking about making love to her all day he
would only wind up frustrated and unavailable to be there for what really
mattered. Reaching for the soap he vowed to give up on the fantasy that plagued
his mind and focus on what was important for them to get moving on their day.
Did you really think you could sneak out on me and I wouldnt notice,
he heard a voice slur in the back of his ear. At first hed started to
believe he was imagining it especially after the way in which hed been
thinking about Evie, but now as he felt a pair of arms snake around his waist,
fingers fanning out over his hip, he knew full well he was no longer alone
in his shower.
Sucking in a sharp breath he attempted to speak up and keep things cool even
though he was quite convinced that with a little subtle movement of Evies
hand shed figure out full well that he wasnt thinking about their
plans for the day. Taking in a breath, he attempted to stand up straighter,
hoping to refocus and coax himself into talking her out of the shower, but
before he could react he felt her palm come into direct contact of the one
part of him that was less than civilized.
Evie, he spoke her name in a tight whisper feeling her press in
against his spine. In an instant he knew full well that not only had she decided
to join him, but shed also thought it very necessary to shed her clothing
in the process. He could feel the warm lines of her body gently nestled in
against his spine while her fingers curled around his body, discovering without
hesitation that JTs thoughts had been less than pure where shed
been concerned earlier.
My you really are up this early morning, arent you? she
questioned in what shouldve been a simple comment, but with the low,
sultry tone that fell from her lips, JT felt his mouth go dry, his heart hammering
in his chest and before he could say even one word that made sense she started
to caress him, her free hand moving up over his chest. Though I suppose
there is something to be said about being an early riser.
Youre supposed to be sleeping in, he closed his eyes sucking
in a sharp breath before he reached out to capture her wrist in his hand.
He slowly urged her to release him before he took in another breath. He started
to turn around to face her, but stopped himself knowing full well that he
was just asking for trouble if he looked at her.
How do you expect me to be sleeping when all I could think about was
you in here naked and wet and waiting for some company, she questioned
leaning up on her toes to curl her arm over his shoulder. He felt her soft
curves brush in against his again before she pressed a small kiss on his shoulder.
Her fingertips fanned out over his muscled bicep before her lips followed.
He felt her slinking around in the shower, maneuvering herself around his
body so that they were soon face to face with one another. She smiled up at
him, her brown eyes filled with a sudden warmth and desire that JT knew only
too well himself.
Have I told you how much trouble you are, he questioned attempting
to make light of the situation while fighting like hell to keep from giving
her a very complete once over followed by a very complete exploration that
would clearly take him from the realm of doing the right thing to just downright
dirty. Of course being that they were in the shower together there was a certain
ring to the situation, but alas he had to stay calm. His eyes fixed on hers
again, I really figured you would sleep in.
Well you figured wrong, she stepped forward curling her arm around
his waist before her other hand eased up to touch the side of his face. JT,
why wont you just look at me? I know you want to.
Evie, I just want to finish the shower. Im just about done in
here and
he stopped himself, his gaze involuntarily dropping down
to see her curves right before him beautifully revealed and his for the taking.
Immediately thoughts of what he could do with her flashed through his mind
making the situation worse now that his body was on edge. He looked away after
a few seconds and cleared his throat again, We have a schedule today
and
And I think we can afford to be a little late, she leaned forward
dropping feathery light kisses over his chest. He reached out to her attempting
to pull her away, but instead his fingers found their way to her long, dark
hair--to the soft dampness that started to curl at the ends now that shed
stepped in underneath the shower spray. Closing his eyes he felt the intoxicating
movement her lips made over his skin and in that instant he knew he was a
goner.
Evie, he spoke her name pulling her lips up to meet his in a fiery
kiss. Coiling his arm around her slender frame, he pulled her in against him,
feeling the warmth of her damp skin colliding with his. Their eyes met for
a brief moment before his lips returned to hers crashing down with a hungry
urgency. He nudged her to take a step back, pressing her in against the shower
wall while his hands greedily roamed over her body. Sure, he knew full well
that it was the last thing that hed anticipated doing, but damn it shed
tempted him and he couldnt hold off on what hed been suppressing
much longer.
JT, she murmured his name reaching for his hand and guiding it
over her body, placing it over her soft curves now that her eyes were glazed
over with passion. She tipped her head up seeking out his lips and with a
tiny flick of her tongue over his lower lip, he knew that hed give her
just about anything in the here and now. She arched up into him, her body
warming up to his soft caress. She let out a tiny whimper curling upward towards
him while her leg slid up over his slowly making its way around his
thigh.
Evie wait, he pulled back finally putting the brakes on the situation
now that he was suddenly very aware of just how close they were when it came
to entering dangerous territory with one another. He sucked in a sharp breath
lowering his head ever so slightly and closing his eyes while trying to focus
on anything other than the beautiful naked woman beneath him. We have
to stop before something happens between us that shouldnt.
I cant imagine us doing something that we shouldnt together
when it feels so very right, she started to draw him in nearer to her,
her lips seeking out his again.
Evie, Im serious, he forced himself to look into her lust
filled eyes. Reaching out to touch her cheek gently, he ran his fingers over
her damp skin, if we keep up like this Im going to want to make
love to you and this certainly isnt the right setting for your first
time.
It has a very promising start, she informed him brightly thinking
about the possibilities for what could be between them. Her hand dipped down
below his waist again reaching out to touch his ache, JT I know that
you want me.
Im not going to deny that one for even one second, he caught
her wrist in his hand bringing it up to his lips. He pressed a small kiss
over her pulse point all the while focusing on her soft brown eyes and how
beautiful they were, but if we start something now were probably
not going to be able to stop and were not really prepared for something
like that right now.
You mean because we dont have protection, she questioned
meeting his refusal with a firm tone, because there are other things
we can do in here if you dont want to make love. I mean I know there
are other ways around sex JT.
He practically choked at her suggestion surprised at how casual she was when
he was feeling anything, but at ease in the shower with her. He tried to rationalize
that she had a point and that in the past he wouldve easily found a
way to comply to such a delicious request, but right now he feared it wouldnt
be enough. If hed had even one taste of her, he was convinced he wouldnt
hold back any longer.
Evie, I really dont think that
he stammered feeling
his blood boiling at the sight of her before him, I think maybe you
should let me finish the shower and we can get going.
Do you honestly think Im walking out of here just like that?
she snapped her fingers in the air before reaching out to him again. JT
come on. Youve put me off long enough and you know that Im not
afraid of what could happen with us.
But I am
he admitted honestly taking in a long breath, Im
afraid of what could happen should we take that next step with one another
just yet.
JT you asked me to marry you. I hardly think our making love will complicate
things, she frowned up at him shaking her head. I think itll
only enhance what we have with one another.
And what about your father? What about what he said? Evie you told me
yourself that hes pushing for you to get pregnant so that he can run
some kind of scam, JT blurted out seeing a scowl press over her lips.
Oh thats just great JT, she snarled up at him, her irritation
level rising, Leave it to you to bring him into this. Tell me is that
what your hesitation is all about? Are you afraid that Im going to end
up doing what I can to please my daddy so that way you get screwed over?
No thats not what Im saying, but
he started
realizing hed said the wrong thing and set her off. He saw the anger
bubble over every inch of her and in an instant hed regretted his word
selection. Evie its just
Just that you dont trust me, right? That you cant trust
me because my father is a lunatic and you think Im feeding right into
his plans, she shook her head at him, a tight scowl carrying over her.
Fine, then be that way JT. If you really think so little of me, then
you can go to hell.
Evie wait, he frowned seeing her stomp over to the shower door
and step out. Letting out a groan he reached for the water dials quickly turning
them off before jumping out of the shower to chase after her. Thats
not what Im saying.
Oh really, then why dont you elaborate on what it is that you
are trying to say JT? she spun around to face him placing her hands
on her hips angrily as she stood in the center of the bathroom naked and fired
up.
What Im trying to say is, he blinked back at her finding
himself distracted by the sight of her. Evie, can you at least put on
a towel?
Why should I? If you can be man enough to refuse me when Im trying
to get you to make love to me, then Im pretty damn sure that you can
stand there and see me like this without getting all hot and bothered,
she spat out at him icily her frustrations mounting with each passing second.
Evie, its not that Im not hot and bothered. Its just
he threw his hands in the air and groaned, Damn it. Are you trying to
kill me? I mean is that what this is really about?
Excuse me, she blinked back at him with a huff, Youre
the one who keeps refusing me, so how is it killing you?
Its killing me because I want to. Damn it I want to be with you
so much that Im starting to think Im losing my damn mind for telling
you no, he blurted out in frustration looking over at her again, Evie,
its just that when things turn to sex for me, they turn bad. Im
not going to lie to you about that. I really care about you and I dont
want you to get hurt just because we jumped the gun on this with one another.
JT were not jumping the gun. Not even remotely close to it and
besides forget about jumping the gun, I would rather you just jump on me,
she blurted out with a groan throwing her hands up in the air.
Would you just listen to yourself? he couldnt help but ask
surprised by her tone. Think about what youre saying.
I know what Im saying and I know what I want JT. I want you and
I dont give a damn about your past--about whats gone wrong for
you because I know together were completely right for one another. I
love you and I think that weve known one another long enough to see
that this isnt some fleeting phase. Obviously weve both had our
share of problems, but you asked me to marry you, which indicates to me that
you love me, she continued to rant at him, her dark eyes narrowing with
agitation.
I do love you and you love me, which is why Im trying to do things
right for you. Im trying to make things right for us instead of something
thats less than memorable, he threw his hands in the air and let
out a groan, Dont you want that?
Id settle for you pinning me up against the wall and rocking my
world, she blurted out with a huff, tossing her damp, dark hair over
her shoulders defiantly.
Fine, if thats what you want, JT stepped forward reaching
out to her and grabbing her. He spun her around in his arms before pressing
her in against the wall with a firm shove. His dark eyes met hers and he spoke
up in a low growl finding himself done with her screaming at him. The way
her lips curled in a pout, the way the fire behind her eyes beckoned him to
stop fighting her, it all got to his head and he caged her beneath his arms.
He lowered his voice to just above a whisper, before he finished his words
with a soft rumble, then thats what youre going to get.
JT, she gasped his name feeling the force behind the movement
hed made. His lips came crashing down over hers, catching her completely
off guard while his hands roamed over her body, tracing her curves in such
an aggressive fashion that shed almost forgot to breathe. Her dark eyes
widened with surprise when he hovered in over her, his presence lingering
and possessive now that his fingers pressed through her hair.
Im not going to make love to you just yet, but I will give you
something to remember--something that I can assure you will more than convince
you that Im not putting you off because Im not interested,
JT assured her his mouth plummeting into hers as he vowed to give her a taste
of the fantasy shed been asking for with him. While he knew full well
that it would be hard to keep things from reaching the point of no return,
he kept his mind clear and focused on doing what was necessary to convince
Evie that hed meant everything hed said about making her world
incredible in every way imaginable.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Kevin glanced over at the bathroom door double checking to ensure that hed
locked it now that he was going to hop into the shower. Angela was sleeping,
but he didnt want to wind up in a situation where he would have to jump
through hoops to keep her from joining him. Just in case he reached for the
small chair that hed had set up over by the vanity. He pushed it quietly
across the floor before feeling satisfied with the fact hed put a decent
barrier between him and Angela now that he was going to start the morning.
Pulling his shirt up over his head, he had to laugh at the irony of the situation.
Here he was staying with Angela, with her thinking that they were in love
with one another, yet he couldnt even begin to think about getting close
to her in that fashion. A few months ago it wouldve been like a dream
come true for him to finally have her wanting him again, but now it was more
of a bother than anything. Of course, he realized stepping into the shower,
there was a time when he was younger when he wouldnt have put a barricade
on the door but rather expected her to join him in the shower.
Youre not getting in this time though Angie, Kevin mouthed
with a tiny chuckle remembering full well when he was working for her father.
He could remember how hard hed tried to avoid her--how many times hed
set out to avoid her, but shed still found her way into his life pushing
herself into close quarters with him in the worst of circumstances. Pausing
to pop his head out of the shower Kevin looked to the door again seeing it
was still locked and the chair was still placed in front of it serving as
a means of keeping him on his own for a little while.
The sooner you get your memory back, the better, Kevin sighed
closing his eyes and thinking about Ria. It was hard not to think about her
considering that he knew full well what kind of strain this situation was
putting on her. Shed been patient, but at the same time hed seen
how upset she was first hand. Top that off with the fact that they had to
start sneaking around like they were doing something wrong when in fact that
was far from the truth. He hated that. That was the part that truly bothered
him. If Angela hadnt forgotten her life, then he could be with Ria--he
could be finding a way to start moving forward instead of being stuck in limbo
hoping for Angela to wake up and realize that he wasnt even remotely
close to being the man she loved.
Hell the more he thought about it, the more he realized hed stopped
being that man a long time ago. Yes, hed always kind of held out hope
that he and Angela would reunite, but that felt like a lifetime ago. On the
island hed felt so strongly about her--wanted more than anything for
her to just open her eyes and see how good they were for one another, but
now it was like asking for him to drink a bottle of poison. Thats about
how good they would be for one another now. She was different and so was he.
Ria had taught him how to love again and Angela seemed to be the one thing
that kept pushing him under just when hed surfaced again. It was as
if every time he tried to move forward she came around long enough to kick
him back.
But not this time, Kevin vowed to himself thinking about all the
ways in which he hoped to help Brant get Angelas memory back if for
no other reason than his peace of mind. It was long overdue for Kevin and
Ria to just be able to enjoy life for a while and by God he had to find a
way to make it happen before this situation caused him and Ria to split again.
Closing his eyes again he thought about the woman he loved--remembered the
soft scent of her perfume, the way that her smile caused his heart to flutter
with a warmth that carried over him. Oh how hed realized he wouldnt
be able to make it without Ria. It was her memory alone that carried over
him and
Did you honestly think you could slip out on me? he heard a voice
pull him from his thoughts of Ria. His brown eyes snapped open and he gasped
immediately feeling a shift in the cramped shower he was in. He reached for
the door looking through it to discover that not only was the door opened,
but the chair was back over by the vanity again.
No, Kevin blurted out feeling a palm press in over his chest.
He didnt have to look back to know that Angela was obviously awake and
hoping to recreate some of the moments they had shared with one another in
their younger years.
Kevin, I was hoping youd at least wait for me to wake up before
you took off, she whispered stepping up on her toes to lean in over
his shoulder, but at least I caught you now before you could run away.
I um
Kevin gulped feeling his Adams apple leap up
into the back of his throat with fear. He felt her fingers sliding in over
his damp chest, finger curling around his nipple offering up a playful pinch
and he yelped. Im running really behind and
And Im sure you can fit some time in for us, she bit down
on his shoulder teasingly causing him to jump up with a gasp. He turned around
to face her, astonishment carrying over him.
How the hell did you get in here? he couldnt help but ask
wondering how shed managed to break through his perfectly plotted plan.
I had a key, she explained nodding over towards the countertop
where shed set the key after shed discarded her clothing. Her
dark eyes met his again before she frowned, Though what was with the
chair in front of the door?
I didnt want any interruptions, he answered honestly realizing
that this was one hell of an interruption that he wasnt looking for.
He felt her hands slide over his abdomen before he dropped his hand down to
collect her wrists and return them to her side of the shower. I have
a busy day ahead of me.
And a busy morning too if you play your cards right, she licked
her lips in anticipation, lust burning behind her dark eyes and he took a
small step back. He watched her match the movement closing in on him until
he backed up enough to suddenly feel the dials of the shower pressing in against
his
Whoa now, Kevin placed his hands up in the air in an attempt to
shield himself from her now that he felt her moving in for the kill. I
think you need to hold off on that Angela.
Why? she tipped her head to the side seeing the way hed
ducked out of a kiss and now appeared to be frightened by the nearness of
her, And whats with this whole Angela business? You havent
called me Angela since the first day we met?
Its your name isnt it, he spoke up nervously carefully
sliding around to the side of the shower so that he didnt impale himself
on the dials. However when he realized he was pressed into a corner between
two walls, he felt suddenly very claustrophobic. He had left the door wide
open for her to move in on him. He saw her smile, watched her lick her lips
again and as he felt a rumble inside of him, he closed his eyes and said a
silent prayer for this to be nothing more than a dream.
Come here you, Angelas voice spoke up smoothly in a seductive
undertone alerting him that she had just one thought in mind and she wasnt
about to be denied. He kept his eyes shut tightly, mouthing a silent prayer
to himself over and over again, but her lips were inevitably moving in closer
to his. He could feel her fingers tracing over against his outer thigh and
just when he thought he was finally going to be crushed like a bug under a
rock, inspiration struck.
Owww, he bellowed out in a low roar causing Angela to cease all
movement. Her brown eyes widened in confusion as he tipped over and grabbed
his leg.
Kevin, what is it? she couldnt help but ask listening to
him wince in agony.
Cramp, he replied hobbling out of the shower in the blink of an
eye without looking back at her. He grabbed one of the towels securing it
around his waist before heading towards the door.
Where are you going? she questioned alerting him to the fact that
she was out of the shower. Immediately he buckled over in pain
and motioned to his leg.
It hurts like a son of a bitch Angie. I need to work it out, he
sank back onto the counter rubbing at his calve muscle while wishing like
hell she would just leave him alone.
Let me take a look at it, she suggested making a small movement
towards him only to feel him waving his hands at her.
No, no thats okay, he shook his head adamantly, I
can take care of it.
But Kevin, you sound like youre in so much pain, she noted
watching his eyes narrow with the moment. If you just let me rub it
for you maybe I can work to unknot it and
Trust me I can take care of this, he replied sharply realizing
his tone was far too abrasive for her liking. Quickly covering he spoke up
again in a smoother tone, hoping to curb her need to seduce him, Actually
baby if you want to do something for me, I would love a banana right about
now.
A banana, she replied giving him a strange look. Are you
serious?
The potassium is good for me especially now, he added seeing the
way she eyed him intently. He let out an extra groan for emphasis.
Angie please, he whimpered making a small pinched sound, I
really would like a banana.
Fine, she stepped back giving him a once over. He made sure to
play it up faking it to the fullest while she headed towards the door offering
up a sympathetic look, Poor baby
I know, he nodded before leaning back on the counter, Take
your time.
I thought you said you needed it now, she paused glancing over
her shoulder at him.
I did, but I mean
you may have to go to Brants to get it
if we dont have one, Kevin added quickly seeing her standing outside
of the bathroom door. Forcing himself to get up off of the counter he moved
over to the door and grabbed it in his hand, In fact we can go over
there to get one together. You just get dressed out there and Ill get
dressed in here.
But
she started watching him close the door in her face
unexpectedly.
Ill be ready in a few minutes, Kevin mouthed through the
door hearing her still standing there.
But I thought you couldnt walk, she blurted out in a muffled
tone on the opposite side of the door.
I cant, but, well we can take one of the golf carts or something,
Kevin suggested hearing her outside the bathroom obviously puzzled.
Well okay, but just take your time Kevin. If you need me
she began again with a worried tone.
I know where to find you, Kevin added listening to the sound of
her footsteps walking away from the bathroom before he let out a long sigh.
Sinking back onto the countertop again he closed his eyes and said a prayer
for his quick thinking. That was close--too close he realized knowing full
well that things werent going to get any easier now that Angela was
in full on relationship mode with him. If their past indicated what she might
be doing now thinking that she was in love with him, Kevin knew full well
he was in big trouble!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Ria glanced out the back door to the kitchen thinking about the last time
shed seen Kevin. While she wanted to admit that she was okay with the
way things had turned out the previous night, the fact to the matter was that
shed been furious that Angela had dragged him off to the guest house
without so much as giving them a few minutes to speak to one another before
Kevin was off for the night. Now that she was waiting for him to join them
for breakfast she was finding that it was increasingly harder to be patient.
Hearing footsteps moving in from behind her, she spun around to see Brant
eyeing her curiously.
Why am I not surprised to find you standing over there? Brant
questioned tucking the newspaper hed picked up on the way into the kitchen
underneath his arm. Something tells me that youll probably be
glued to that very spot until you see Kevin trotting along to join us.
Can you blame me? Ria questioned with a small scowl, Considering
how clingy Angela was last night I wouldve imagined youd already
be standing here this morning warming up a spot for me.
As exhilarating as that sounds, I had other things to take care of,
he frowned moving over to the island in the center of the kitchen. He set
his newspaper down before glancing over at her once again, I just learned
that my brother swiped the private jet to whisk Wendy off to a romantic trip
to Paris--at least thats the gist of the sloppy message he left for
me.
Wow, that sounds really romantic, Ria noted thinking about how
it would be nice if she and Kevin could just leave Angela and her whole bag
of issues aside and follow in Kens footsteps.
It sounds odd to me, Brant frowned thinking about how Ken had
just started to pull together his professional life again. With Wendy
being sick like she is, I can honestly say that its a stretch for them
to be trotting off to another country without so much as the proper preparations
behind it.
Havent you ever heard of spontaneity? Of just being plain romantic
and exciting? she frowned turning around to face him now that shed
attempted to keep herself distracted. She walked over to the counter and took
a seat at the bar area, I mean what would be so wrong about taking the
person you love more than life itself to some romantic, exotic place where
you were left to absorb the culture and each other. It sounds like a very
beautiful notion.
To most people yes, but with my brother, Brant thought to all
the chaos that Ken had caused in the past. Frowning at the memory of Kens
destruction, Brant opted to change the subject, Lets just say
hes hard to figure out and leave it at that. On another note, other
than you being in here ready to beat down Angela how was your night?
You mean before or after she beat Kevin with her club over the head
to drag him back to the prison shes keeping him in? she wiggled
her brow up at him.
You know what I meant, he frowned in response centering himself
on the opposite side of the bar and leaning in closer to her, How did
you sleep?
Not as well as I did the night before, she mouthed in response
her thoughts lingering to what it was like to have Kevin in bed with her--to
be sharing the warmth of his arms and be lost with him in such an intimate
fashion.
Hell Ria I dont think anyone has slept as well as you and Kevin
obviously did the night before last, he teased with a small laugh thinking
to what hed witnessed the morning after, I would give anything
to have five minutes like that with Angela.
Five minutes? Ria repeated with an arched brow. Her dark eyes
swept over him before she offered up a small laugh, Is that how long
it takes for you? Only five minutes?
Wait
what? Brant blinked at her registering what she was
hinting at and he frowned, No. No of course not, but what I was just
saying is
That you would love to have a five minute quickie romp because thats
about what youre good for right about now, yes? she snickered
unable to resist the urge to tease him further.
Ill have you know that I can last a hell of a lot longer than
five minutes, Brant placed his arm on the counter and met her disbelieving
stare, and I have the reputation to prove it. Ask anyone who has been
with me.
You mean other than the woman you love who has blocked that part of
her past out, Ria blurted out seeing the pain flash behind his eyes
almost immediately. She watched him take a step back and she found herself
regretting her words. Brant Im sorry. I just
Just what? Decided that since youre miserable in all of this that
you must be the only one who is hurting, he questioned glancing over
at her before shaking his head. Yeah Ria your situation sucks, but mine
sucks a hell of a lot more. You at least get to have Kevin to yourself when
everything is said and done. You know he loves you and that you love him as
well. With me, sure its a blur and you can insult me all you want, but
it wont change things. Regardless of what you say about how much you
hate this, I hate it a whole hell of a lot worse. You still have a chance,
but Im not only missing out on being with Angela, but rather Im
missing out on that time with my children as well so yeah I can see why you
should go out of your way to be bitter with me since Ive got it so much
better than you.
Brant Im sorry
she started catching the heavy sarcasm
in his tone. She reached out to place her hand over his on the counter top
only to feel him pull away sharply.
Dont bother because I sure as hell dont need your sympathy
or pity right about now, he spat back at her marching out of the kitchen
almost as soon as hed entered it and leaving her feeling far worse than
she had when shed awakened without Kevin beside her earlier.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Are you going to say anything to me? Russ questioned watching
Avery slam the eggs onto the kitchen countertop after shed pulled them
out to put breakfast together. He could see that she was still bubbling with
anger over the way things had fallen to pieces last night with their dinner
with Heather and Kyle and even now he knew that she was still stark raving
mad. He set the newspaper down that hed been reading and exchanged glances
with Erin before turning to Avery again, Are you going to talk to me
or are we going to play the silent treatment all day?
Avery slammed the cooking utensil down that shed been working with seconds
earlier in order to turn around and glare at Russ. You know what
she paused, never mind.
Not never mind, he frowned watching Erin play with the toys that
were on the tray to her high chair for a brief moment. He reached out to press
down on one that would spin over and over again causing Erin to giggle with
delight. Once he was convinced his daughter was satisfied he glanced up at
Avery again, Honey you cant be upset with me because of the way
things turned out. I wasnt the one that decided to get into a fist fight
with Heather. You were.
I wouldnt have had to if you wouldve put your foot down
and told Kyle that he couldnt have her here, she spun around to
face him again this time waving a package of sausage in her hand. She flung
it around wildly while her words continued to lash out at him, I cannot
for the life of me believe that you just sat there allowing her to speak to
me that way in our own home. Whats worse is I cant believe that
Kyle would just do nothing as well. I mean is he so blinded by that bitch
that he cant just get his act together and tell her where to stick it?
Shes pure evil Russ and it boggles my mind to think that he could enjoy
spending any kind of time with her.
Avery, you and Heather were both a bit high strung last night and if
I do recall correctly Kyle didnt do just anything. He stepped in and
almost got decked in the process when you and Heather were going at it like
two school girls in a catfight, Russ frowned pushing his chair away
from the table and walking over to her.
Kyle never shouldve brought her here, Avery blurted out
with an impatient huff waving the sausage around again. He was just
being plain stupid and
Why dont you give me that before you poke my eye out with your
sausage, Russ teased reaching out to snag the package from her hand.
In fact why dont you just sit down with Erin and let me take over
breakfast?
Russ I can handle it, she reached out to him tugging at the package
in his hands before her dark eyes met his with a stubbornness. I said
I had it under control.
Avery, let go of my sausage and sit down, Russ mouthed in response
a flicker of playfulness sparking behind his green eyes. He flashed her a
sexy grin before seeing her cave ever so slightly with a small sigh.
You never had a problem with me playing with your sausage before,
she quipped in response unable to contain the urge that carried over her.
Even so, go sit with our daughter, he raised his right hand to
brush his fingers up against her cheek gently before smiling at her. You
can spin her toy for her. It works great on venting your frustrations.
Fine, she mouthed with a small scowl marching over to the chair
and taking a seat. She reached out to spin Erins toy for her before
looking to Russ again, I just cant believe that Kyle would find
it in him to tolerate that woman. Shes spiteful and wicked and
And maybe theres more going on than either one of us can see,
Russ suggested knowing full well that Avery needed to know about Kyle and
Heathers marriage, but as agreed upon it was up to Kyle to share that
news with her. There was no way in hell that Russ was going to endure the
wrath of Kyles choice in a spouse anymore than he already had. Perhaps
if you both would look beyond the past, you might find you actually enjoy
one anothers company.
Fat chance, Avery laughed with a huff, That woman has tried
to make me miserable since day one and Im tired of it. It was bad enough
that she tried to sabotage me in every angle of my life, but now to carry
it over with Kyle
In all honesty, Russ started to prepare the omelet that Avery
had started, I really dont think Heather and Kyle being together
is Heathers way of getting at you. I mean it might feel that way, but
I think something else is going on.
Yeah Kyle is on the rebound and after Sarah hurt him, it messed with
his head, she reached out to spin Erins toy again listening as
Erin bubbled over with laughter. Avery focused on Erin again and spoke to
her daughter, Thats right little girl you dont want your
Uncle Kyle with the mean and nasty Heather do you?
Avery, Russ sighed shaking his head in response, Look I
know last night tension was running high between the both of you, but lets
face it youre not at war anymore. Neither one of you wants to be with
Brant, so that competitive side of things is over. Shes with Kyle and
I would like to think that you and I are happy with one another.
We are happy with one another, she paused another tight frown
carrying over her, but what about that time you two were in bed together?
Oh you mean the time that was completely orchestrated by your mother,
Russ reminded her seeing that she was grasping for any and all reasons not
to let go of her bitterness.
Yeah, well even if Brooke drugged you, Heather was enjoying it way too
much with the way she was all over you, Avery folded her arms in front
of her chest stubbornly, Even last night I saw the way she was looking
at you when I came back with Erin
Honey Im pretty sure that Im just about the last man Heather
would try to have anything with, Russ fought to repress his urge to
laugh. He stepped away from the stove enough to walk over to the table and
place his hands on Averys shoulder. I think its safe to
say that wont be happening anytime soon or ever in that respect.
Even so with the way she spoke to me. She has no room to talk Russ and
the way I see it she has no right to be in our home after what she pulled,
she huffed feeling his fingers fanning out over her tense, knotted muscles.
Avery, Im not asking you to be her best friend, but you do have
to take into consideration that Kyle does love her. Hes with her for
a reason and maybe we should try to respect that, he suggested hoping
that she would let go of her anger for a while.
I dont respect anything about that woman and I know full well
why Kyle is with her. Hes hurting and on the rebound right now and shes
totally taking advantage of the situation, she mouthed with a dry groan,
Kyle is only going to get hurt if he stays with her. Shes trouble
Russ. I know it.
Regardless, we cant pick and choose who people are meant to be
with. Love doesnt work that way and if Kyle feels strongly about her,
we cant tell him that its not allowed, he curled his finger
underneath her chin gently urging her head back. He leaned down to place a
soft kiss over her lips before standing up again, You and I both know
love doesnt work that way.
Okay, so maybe we cant tell him what to do, but maybe we could
lock him up and try to reverse the effects of the obvious brain washing she
has put on him, Avery suggested watching him walk back over to the stove.
Unable to resist the urge, her gaze dropped down involuntarily over his body
taking in the warm lines that shed grown to love and appreciate over
the years.
I dont think that is an option either, Russ teased glancing
over his shoulder to see her watching him intently. Avery, are you checking
out my butt?
Maybe, Avery teased with the first hints of a smile watching Russ
turn around to shake his bottom at her.
Theres no maybe about it, he laughed lightly moving around
to see her again, Erin, would you believe what your mommy is doing?
She might be sounding like shes mad, but shes totally checking
me out and being absolutely shameless about it.
I am not, Avery folded her arms in front of her chest in a huff,
and besides there is no shame in wanting to take the time to appreciate
my husband.
You can appreciate me all that you want sweetheart as long as it takes
the focus off of the whole disaster of Kyle and Heather, Russ finished
up at the stove and joined her and Erin at the table. He placed a plate in
front of Avery before taking a seat across from her. Look I know that
its not going to be easy, but if you could just take the time to at
least consider that maybe Kyle is trying to find happiness again. Sure, maybe
Heather wouldnt be our first choice, but perhaps hes hoping to
turn over a new leaf.
Or find himself in an early grave, Avery muttered under her breath
catching the disapproving look Russ was giving her.
We cant judge them Avery. We can only hope that Kyle is doing
what is best for him, Russ added wishing that Avery wouldnt worry
so much about their friend.
How can he even know what that is right now considering hes got
Heather with him? Last night just proved that shes going to add tension
to his life and thats something that isnt going to change. Shes
still as malevolent as ever and that isnt going to fade away overnight.
When she attacked me, provoked or not, she knew full well what she was doing
and she loved every single second of it. The woman hates me.
And you hate her, which means that you both are going to have your work
cut out for you in the future because were not about to give up one
of our best friends because we dont like his girlfriend. Right?
he tossed back at her his green eyes filled with concern. Right Avery?
Of course Russ, she finally sighed realizing that losing Kyle
as a friend was one of the last things on her list, but helping him shed the
excess baggage that Heather brought to a situation was another thing. Even
though Russ wanted her to leave it alone, Avery was certain that she would
find a way to help Kyle see the light about the woman he was with one way
or the other!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Honey, whats wrong?" Kyle moved in behind Heather hearing
her let out a loud sigh telling him that something was on her mind. Wrapping
his arms around her waist tightly, he rested his chin on her shoulder taking
in a long breath. You seem to have something on your mind now that you
are at work. You were feeling better this morning.
Its just a decision I have to make, Heather informed him
seeing the way Kyle met her eyes in a glance when she turned in his arms,
pressing her hands against his firm chest. I know that this is all right,
but I just have a bad feeling about this.
Firing someone?" Kyle arched his eyebrow up in response seeing
her nod and he took in a long breath wondering what was more to the story
that made her upset. You never really told me what happened Heather.
What did Becca do to get fired?"
She did nothing to me, she answered truthfully feeling his rough
fingers press in against her soft skin on her cheek. Tipping down to press
his lips in over hers in a very small peck while her fingertips slid up and
over his shoulders as he held onto her tightly. You remember back in
the day with Susan how she had this whole infatuation with you so to speak?"
You mean obsession?" Kyle arched his eyebrow up before shuddering
at the thought remembering some of the worst pain of his life and yet some
of the repressed memories he never wanted to have come back to him. What
she did was plain scary and changed my life in a lot of ways more than one.
Why? Did Becca try to jump you honey? Did she drug you or something?"
No, no. No, Heather blurted out repeating herself a few times
seeing his worried hazel eyes watching her carefully and she could see he
was trying to read her eyes to see if she was lying. Seriously Kyle,
I swear she did nothing to me. Thats one thing you most certainly dont
have to worry about.
Then what is it youre not telling me?" Kyle watched Heather
move out of his arms and walk over toward the other side of the room nervously.
Moving slowly over toward her he watched her look out the window as his eyebrows
tightened together wondering what in the world was on her mind to keep her
this silent from him. Heather baby, you cant approach the subject
like that and have no follow up. You have my mind playing tricks on myself
and Im left wondering what happened and now Im worried. So, whats
wrong honey?"
Its Kipp, she answered truthfully not wanting to keep anything
from Kyle because that was NOT the kind of relationship she wanted to have
with Kyle now that they were married. She was too much in love with him to
be untruthful with him. You see the situation you were in--he was in.
You mean Becca took advantage of him?" he let out a questionable
tone seeing the way that she nodded slowly and he automatically felt bad for
kind of being jealous of Kipp earlier. You mean everything? Well hes
going to have to press charges, he needs to put her away for what she did
to him. She cant get away with that Heather, she cant
Kyle, he doesnt want to tell anyone, Heather explained
seeing Kyles eyes full of fury at the thought as she placed her fingers
softly against his lips seeing his angered expression calm down. She
didnt get that far because he woke up, but she forced herself on him
and there were things that happened. Things that he just doesnt want
people to know.
I see, but he really cant let her get away with it, he insisted
seeing Heather shake her head and he rested back against the desk seeing the
way she looked out at him. Folding his arms in front of his chest he remembered
his past and sure it sounded like Susan got a lot further than Becca did,
but it still wasnt right. Its still not right honey.
I know Kyle, but there is nothing I can do about it because this is
the best I can do for Kipp, Heather tried to explain seeing the way
Kyle tried to stare out at her before looking down toward the desk and she
saw him eyeing over the fax she had gotten the other day. Seeing him gulp
down she saw him pick it up and look it over as she moved in closer to him.
Kyle
I want to keep this, I want to know who did this and this is the only
way to look things over, Kyle explained rolling the fax up a bit seeing
her green eyes looking out into his. Heathers green eyes stared up at
him as he lovingly pressed his fingers into her hair before pressing her light
blonde hair behind her ear. I promise only my eyes will see this honey.
I love you.
I love you too, Heather smirked seeing Kyle staring out at her
as he moved down to kiss her softly hearing the door come to an open. Kyle
squeezed her hand softly when he saw Becca standing in the doorway and knowing
that he couldnt be around Becca because he would open his mouth he decided
to leave. Kissing her again he caressed her face softly before taking in a
long breath moving toward the door. Ill see you later honey.
I love you, Heather could hear Kyle leave the room as she pondered
just how she was going to find a way to deal with the situation with Becca
as simply as possible.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Sarah, would you please stop hanging behind me and come on. Im
not going to have you miss this just because you want to, Cameron snipped
grabbing a firm hold of her hand only to hear her gasp and pull her hand back
roughly away from him. Sarah, stop it and just come with me.
Let me get a few rules for you right now, Sarah shook her head
folding her arms out in front of her chest knowing that she was trying to
waste time so she didnt have to do this, but seeing the anger behind
Camerons eyes she had to explain a bit of things to him before deciding
to go. No one grabs me like you just did and if I dont want to
do something, Im not going to do it.
Oh yes you are when you are with me, Cameron grabbed her wrist
in his roughly seeing her brown eyes staring up into his as he laughed and
looked down at her with a serious expression. Listen to me Sarah, when
I tell you to do something. You do it. You listen to me or everything youve
ever wanted, everything youve ever imagined of having is over. You wont
have a name to yourself and you will fail so much that you will never know
what to do with yourself.
So youre the one thats making the decisions now? Since when
were you the one pregnant? I have what you want, so if you want to get what
you want you are going to have to play nice Cameron or else Im going
to take away what you need, she warned seeing his dark eyes glare out
at her before he let go of her wrist and looked down at his watch letting
out a small growl. If we have to do this, we have to do this.
You know we have to take this paternity test to see who the father is.
Since someone was a little too boy happy, there are three possibilities and
we need to know who it is. Knowing the way things have been going for you,
Cameron reached his arm out wrapping it around Sarahs shoulders tightly
and pulling her in closer to him seeing the way her dark eyes glared up at
him. Its probably none of the three.
You are such an
, Sarah raised her hand to deck him before
seeing out of the corner of her eye Diego walking around the corner and she
reached up with her hand to place it against his cheek. Catching Cameron off
guard she tipped up on her toes and pressed her lips against his roughly feeling
his arms wrap around her waist tightly pulling her in closer to him. Amazingly
sexy man.
Sarah, Diego groaned walking down the hallway toward the elevators
knowing that the only way he could get out was around her and Cameron. Glaring
over at Cameron, he saw Camerons dark eyes glazed over with cockiness
and he moved in closer to the two. Im glad to see you now happy
with one of the biggest assholes in Coral Valley.
Oh dont worry, what she does helps me level out my bad habits,
Cameron stated with a wide grin seeing the way that a muscle in Diegos
jaw tightened and he laughed looking down at Sarah. There is nothing
better than a girl who is twice as bad as I am. So I guess once again Diego,
you lost one of the sisters that I keep getting.
Right. And Heather is with Kyle why?" Diego moved in closer to
Cameron seeing the angered expression press in over Camerons features
when they stood face to face. You never had Heather Cameron because
she never wanted you. Just like Kyle never wanted Sarah.
You know what Diego?" Sarah moved forward shoving her hands into
the center of his chest seeing him stumble back a small bit. Once you
are out of my life forever, I will be more than happy because Im tired
of always having you around trying to ruin something like always. I lost Kyle
because of you and
No, honey. You lost Kyle because you were a whore, Diego blurted
out seeing Sarah go to smack him and he caught her wrist in his stopping her
from the blow. He saw the fire behind her eyes as he smiled widely and shook
his head at the way she was looking at him. Im just glad you lost
him and he saw what sense he had left before he ruined his life with you.
Get your hands off of her, Cameron moved to go and touch Diego
only to feel the quick movement of Diego underneath his touch. A sharp punch
to his jaw sent him flying to the ground in a thud as Cameron hissed out quickly
getting to his feet feeling Sarah place her hand over the center of his chest.
Youre lucky Sarah is pregnant because if she wasnt--youd
be dead Diego.
I already am, he stated with a small laugh before shaking his
head slowly and stepping forward in closer to her. When I take my child
from you, I cant wait to have you out of my life. Forever and for good.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Well, youre looking happy, Grady laughed heartedly seeing
Avery walk into the office looking like she was ready to kill someone. Moving
up from where he was sitting he offered up a wide smile before arching his
eyebrow up. Someone put bacon on the table this morning and you accidentally
ate it?"
More like someone is on my nerves and I would love to ring their neck
and choke the life out of them, Avery admitted truthfully dropping her
bag to the ground seeing the amused look behind Gradys blue eyes and
she let out a small laugh. Yeah, you are getting happy about this arent
you?"
Oh no, I was already happy this morning so I dont know, I find
it weird to see someone else having so much trouble when they are the person
I usually see with all the happiness in the world, he pointed out knowing
that the moment he said that it was the wrong thing to say and he cleared
his throat uneasily. Sorry, I guess I was just in a sarcastic mood.
Really Avery, whats wrong? I didnt mean to say that.
Its okay, Im glad your happy, she threw her hands
up in the air moving over toward her office hearing his footsteps behind her
and she dropped down the couch in a thud. Last night we had Kyle and
Heather over for dinner.
Yeah, whats wrong with that? Kyle is a pretty good dinner mate,
Grady muttered seeing the way that Avery stared up at him with her dark eyes
and he laughed watching her roll her eyes taking in a deep breath. Okay,
okay. I know you arent fond of Heather, but Kyle loves her.
Thats what kills me the most. How can Kyle love someone like that?"
Avery blurted out seeing Grady smirk and take a seat next to her on the couch
and she turned toward him. If you think about it shes a conniving,
evil, horrible person and
Still, Kyle loves her, Grady interrupted seeing the way that Avery
laughed and he shrugged his shoulders before thinking this over. If
I could assume things correctly, I would guess that you are jealous about
this whole Kyle and Heather thing.
Jealous? Grady, Kyle is the last person in this world I would want to
be jealous with a woman over. Hes like my brother, Guy is my gay brother
thats more like a sister while Kyle has always been like my brother,
Avery explained seeing the look behind Gradys eyes as she thought about
he dinner last night and the things that went on with Kyle and Heather. Hes
just like my brother and thats why I feel so worried about him with
Heather. She doesnt deserve him and Im playing the part of an
angry sister trying to protect her little brother. I love Kyle and I dont
want him to be with someone who is going to upset him like I know Heather
will.
How do you know exactly? I mean really, this is the first time you have
spent with the two together? Did anything happen between them that made something
stand out or is this just your feelings from the past with Brant?" Grady
blurted out seeing the look Avery gave him and Grady held his hands up in
the air and took in a deep breath. You see Avery, Kyle is my best friend
and I would be lost without him. I see it this way, Heather makes Kyle happy
and if Kyles happy, thats all Im ever going to want. I want
to see my best friend in the whole world happy and she does that for him.
Do you think Sarah was better for him after all the things she did?"
Of course I dont, but I honestly think he can find someone better
than the both of them, she answered truthfully seeing Gradys eyebrows
clench together and she let out a long sigh knowing that he was going to be
the person to try and make things right between everyone. I still think
that she isnt good enough for him.
Kyle does though, hes a big boy Avery and he knows the choices
he is making. So right now he thinks he loves Heather, I know he loves Heather
and Avery it makes him happy being with her, Grady explained knowing
the difference from Kyle being happy to Kyle being depressed and he loved
seeing him happy with Heather. I just think you need to realize that
if he makes his mistakes, hell learn to fix them. Im just not
going to worry about this one because I dont think its going to
be a mistake, he loves her too much to be a mistake.
Thats why it will be a mistake Grady, she pointed out seeing
the unbelievable look in his eyes as she nodded slowly and let out a long
breath. Heather is just a mistake and thats what she will be in
his life. I dont want to see him hurt, but Im not so sure about
him continuing this life like he is with Heather. I want him to be happy,
but I think they are heading for a huge downfall with one another.
Then I guess thats what his future is, Grady shrugged watching
the door open to the offices and saw Jason come into the lobby area looking
around. Jason, Im back here. Ill be right there with you.
Yeah, yeah. I really need to talk to you, Jason decided hearing
Gradys laugh fill his ears as he stepped in closer to the room he was
in seeing the woman sitting next to Grady he offered up a wide smile. Reaching
his hand out slowly he saw her smile as he shook it friendly and moved back.
Jason Sherman.
Avery Denton, she replied seeing his blue eyes stare down at Grady
for a moment as she sat up from the couch and moved over toward the desk.
Dont worry about it, Im his brothers wife. Hes
just helping me out with some problems.
Oh, hes good for that, Jason replied with a deep sigh looking
down at Grady and placing his hand in over the center of his chest. When
you get done, Ill be in your office waiting. Its really important,
but it was really nice meeting you Mrs. Denton.
You too, Avery smiled not used to being called that as she watched
Jason walk out of the room and she looked to Grady seeing him smirk. Hes
cute.
Hes young, Grady replied before standing up from the couch
and staring out at her, placing his hands on the top of her desk watching
her smirk. Are you really my brothers wife? I mean after everything
that was said, are you still married to my brother.
In my heart I am, she answered truthfully seeing him bite down
on his bottom lip and nod slowly before moving back to rub at the back of
his neck. I always will be and if I have to prove it to people well
get married again if we have to.
I see, Grady felt something inside of him at her words before
moving back toward the door watching her eyes watching his every move. Well,
I should go see Jason and whats wrong with him now. The kid seems to
have a lot of problems and Im the only one that can help him half the
time. Ill see you later Avery and remember, try to give Heather a chance.
Even if it is for a second.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Brant sat at his desk in his study thinking about the words hed exchanged
with Ria. While he hadnt meant to blow up at her, he couldnt help
but unleash his own mounting frustrations about what was happening, or rather
the lack of what should be happening, between him and Angela. Theyd
seemed to make progress for one night and for a few brief moments hed
really, truly felt like he was regaining what hed seemingly lost, but
then the next morning it was evident that any ground he mightve made
wasnt about to add up to anything. Yes, he had chickened out at the
last moment fearing that he would push her into a relapse, but even with the
way shed looked at him, it was clearly starting to be a lost cause--one
that he most certainly didnt want to lose sight of.
Leaning back in his chair, Brant reached into his top desk drawer and pulled
out the small photograph that was taken at the pizza place the night he and
Angela had gone with Don and Matt. They were in one of those cramped photo
booths with Matt on his lap and Angela was sticking her tongue out at the
camera making a joke of things. As he skimmed over the strip of photos, he
couldnt help as he spotted Don giving him bunny ears in the second to
last one. Then in the final shot Brant and Angela were scooted close together
with Matt still on Brants lap and Don popping his head in to make it
a group shot. Smiling Brant touched the photo remembering how perfect things
had felt on that night when it seemed things were headed in the right direction
for them.
Knock knock, Don mouthed breaking through Brants thoughts
as Brant tipped his head up to see his best friend standing in the doorway
to the study eyeing him with curious blue eyes. What cha doing
Brant?
Torturing myself, Brant sighed setting the strip of photos onto
the desktop before motioning to Don, Im just so worried Im
never going to get this back again.
Don stepped forward realizing what Brant was looking at and his heart went
out to him. Taking a seat in the chair across from where Brant was Don reached
for the strip of photos. He looked at it for a long moment before letting
out a small sigh and setting it back down.
We had a good night that night--well, until Shannon blew up at me,
Don recalled thinking about how hed felt hopeless in his marriage at
that point in time. I remember when I felt like it was over for Shannon
and I, but you and Angela tried to keep me from giving up. You both helped
me to keep focused.
Shannon was just pissed at you Don. She didnt block you out of
her memory, Brant pointed out with a small frown thinking about the
situation he was in, Its not like you couldnt go home and
have her around you knowing who you were.
She also clubbed me with a bottle, remember? Don arched a brow
over at him. She beat the hell out of me and there was that point in
time when we thought it would be over.
I wouldve preferred to have Angela club me over the head than
to be stuck without her right now, Brant sighed tipping his head up
to meet Dons concerned gaze again, You have no idea how much it
hurts to have her look at me and not register a damn thing between us.
I know man, Don paused trying to find some words of comfort for
his friend, but on the bright side shes still here with us Brant.
She still is around and you can have that opportunity to make her remember.
You can get that second chance to make things right. Its not like fate
decided to pull her away from you without allowing you that.
Brant opened his mouth to speak, but when he looked to Don he knew full well
what Don was referring to. Here Brant was feeling overwhelmingly sorry for
himself now that Angela had amnesia, but he hadnt taken the time to
consider the kind of loss Don had faced when Stephanie had died right after
having Matt. The look on Dons face said it all though and in that moment
Brant felt an overwhelming guilt carry over him.
Look, Im sorry. I dont mean to be complaining like this.
Its just
Brant started to apologize hating to upset his
friend in any way.
Youre frustrated, Don cut him off quickly forcing a small
smile, I understand, but remember there is still hope for you and Angela.
I dont see this memory loss being forever.
I hope not, Brant added before giving him a long once over, but
something tells me you didnt come over here to just talk about my shitty
situation, so whats up?
Honestly I came over to complain myself, but now it seems pointless,
Don revealed with a simple shake of his head, You already have enough
on your plate.
So distract me, Brant waved his hand readily opening himself up
to hearing what his friend had to say.
Well, Don paused searching for the right words before finally
speaking up, I think Im going to murder Jewel.
Brants eyes widened at the comment before he cleared his throat, Well
now that is a new one. Ive heard you mention a great many things youve
wanted to do over the years some of which I cant repeat given that they
are far too explicit for words for the time being, but murder never came into
play.
That was before what she did with Stacy, Don frowned revealing
to his friend what was troubling him, Her blatant neglect for her daughter
is too much. Here you have a good kid who is just begging for attention from
her parents, but neither Jewel or Paul can seem to be bothered. The other
night I caught her at some party where some jackass drugged her up to do God
knows what
Yeah Ria kind of told me about that, Brant nodded in response
thinking about what hed heard. How is Stacy holding up?
Shes a mess. I mean sure shes trying to be strong, but neither
one of her parents is around to look after her. I called Jewel and she got
back to getting in touch with me when she was good and ready. Paul arrived
too and all he could do was sling insults at me about Jewel. It was a joke,
Don admitted with a heavy sigh. He shook his head before frowning at Brant,
Then to add insult to injury neither one of them even bothered to take
her home. Dave was the one who took her back with him and as of last night
neither Dave nor I have been able to get into contact with either one of them.
Youre kidding me, Brant frowned in response, Where
the hell are they?
I can give you two guesses and I would imagine you would be right on
both knowing Jewel and Paul, Don rolled his eyes thinking about the
woman he was once involved with. I just wish they would both open up
their eyes and see that being a parent means responsibility. When I think
about how they are refusing to just step up and do what they should with their
daughter, it ticks me off.
I cant say I blame you. Stacy deserves more than that, Brant
nodded in agreement, though if you need any help in any of this, just
say the word and Im there. Ill do what I can.
I dont know if there is really anything that we can do, but I
just wish that Jewel would get a wake up call, Don sighed bringing his
fingers up to rub out the tension in the back of his neck. Though I
wouldnt want it at Stacys expense. She really is a good kid and
thats something considering that she had Paul and Jewel raising her.
That in itself has me really worried about her. This time she was hurt, but
next time
Maybe we can say something to them
Brant suggested seeing
the expression on Dons face.
Theres only one language that Jewel speaks and I really dont
want to have to jump into bed with her to get through to her, Don cringed
at the thought remembering only too well how one dimensional Jewel could be.
Yeah that might make you lose some ground with Shannon there,
Brant nodded in response thinking about the problem at hand, Though
there has to be another way to reach out to her. What has Dave said?
What more can he say though something has to give. Otherwise Im
worried about what could happen to Stacy, Don admitted thinking about
how many problems could be in store for Stacy should her parents decide not
to start growing up and acting like adults once and for all.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Angela sat in the middle of the bedroom waiting for Kevin to finish getting
dressed. The more she thought about his strange behavior, the more confused
she was. Closing her eyes she thought back to how hed practically bounced
out of the shower upon her arrival, yet there was something unmistakable behind
his eyes. She saw fear which was something she hadnt seen in years.
Whats going on with you Kevin? she questioned tipping her
head to the side and thinking about how quick he was to push himself away
from her. Bringing her fingers up through her hair, she sank back onto the
bed and closed her eyes. She could almost picture the dream shed had
about her and Brant the previous night in vivid color. The way shed
felt about him last night had her questioning if Kevin had picked up on it
as well. Frowning she opened her eyes again and shook her head.
Theres nothing going on with Brant, she mouthed finally
hearing the bathroom door open up and Kevin emerged now fully dressed. She
sprang up from the bed and rushed over to his side immediately. Hey,
how are you feeling honey?
Hungry, which is good because we agreed to meet Brant and Ria at the
main house, he explained rubbing his palms together before looking to
her. You ready?
Of course, but how is the leg? she couldnt help but ask
remembering what hed said to her.
Never better, he replied before clearing his throat uneasily,
I mean its still pretty stiff, but Im sure once we get over
to the main house itll iron out its own kinks. So how about breakfast?
Kevin, is something wrong? Angela questioned eyeing him intently,
Is there something that maybe you would like to tell me? Something that
perhaps I should know about happening between us?
I dont know, he paused searching her dark eyes for a long
moment, You tell me.
I just
she struggled to put her thoughts to words, Its
just that we havent been
Angie, you need to rest, he sighed placing his hand on her shoulder,
thats priority one for everything.
For the twins? she arched a curious brow seeing something flash
behind his eyes. He let out a small gulp.
Twins? he replied his eyes widening.
Well thats what Im having, isnt it? she questioned
testing the waters between them after she thought about her talk with Brant
the previous evening.
Well yes, but
Kevin heard the sound of his cell phone buzzing
across the room. Ill bet thats Brant and Ria now wondering
where we went to. Ill go tell them were on our way over.
Right, Angela mouthed in response watching him walk away as she
wondered just what it was that was putting a wall up between her and Kevin.
Remembering how shed felt in waking up in Brants arms the other
day she couldnt help but wonder if perhaps there was something big happening
between them that neither one of them had even attempted to start realizing.
Sure, she loved Kevin, but there was something about Brant--something that
she was sure would cause her nothing, but trouble in the long run if she wasnt
careful!
Ready? Kevin questioned breaking through her thoughts and returning
to her.
Sure, Angela nodded making a silent note to do everything she
could to help Kevin get over whatever moodiness was lingering over him lately.
Whatever she had to do to fix their relationship, she would do it and in the
process she would push aside those little notion of feelings that she had
for Brant in the process!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Evie sank in against JTs chest as they lay with one another cuddled
up on the center of the oversized bed in Camerons guest room. They were
both still wrapped up in matching bathrobes long after their shower time with
one another had ended. While JT had contemplated their actually getting up
and out of the bedroom after their morning with one another, Evie had suggested
they be lazy for once and spend the day watching old movies with one another.
He hadnt sought to argue it with her and now that his arm was wrapped
around her shoulders, he couldnt help but lean down to kiss the top
of her dark, silken hair.
Im sorry about earlier, Evie whispered catching him off
guard by her tone. He tipped his head down to see the soft concern behind
her dark eyes before she spoke up again. That whole shower thing. I
was really pushing it, wasnt I?
Lets just say you werent at all what I expected this morning,
he revealed with a hint of a smile teasing over the corners of his lips as
he touched her cheek gently, but it was a welcome surprise.
You mean after I practically forced you to service me, Evie groaned
closing her eyes and thinking about her deplorable behavior. I dont
know what got into me. Its just that when I thought about you in the
shower all sexy and naked, I just
Started thinking like I would, he couldnt help but smirk.
Why do you think I ran out of here to take that shower in the first
place? You have no idea how incredibly tempting you are when I have you beside
me.
You wouldnt know it by the way that you kept pushing me away,
she noted with a wrinkled expression.
I thought we cleared up any kind of concerns that you might be having
about where my feelings for you are concerned, he curled his fingers
underneath her chin, raising her gaze to meet his own. I love you Evelyn.
She smiled at his words, No one ever really calls me that.
They should, he reciprocated the gesture bending down to kiss
her lips tenderly, Its a beautiful name. Not that Evie isnt
as equally charming, but Evelyn, it just sounds so appropriate for the beautiful,
incredible woman you are.
She felt a heat rise over her features at his words, Now youre
just trying to flatter me.
I think were well beyond the point of flattery with one another.
Wouldnt you agree? he wiggled his brow suggestively before reaching
beyond where she sat to pick up the bowl of popcorn that theyd discarded
half way through the last film theyd watched with one another.
Thats very true, she nodded sensing his movement and plucking
up the bowl of popcorn herself. Although you do bring up an interesting
point, you know.
Whats that Evelyn? he asked dipping his fingers into the
popcorn bowl and pulling out a handful of buttery popcorn. He brought his
palm up to her lips and offered her a bite before he deposited the rest of
the sticky treat into his own mouth.
Well with you calling me Evelyn, I cant help but be curious about
one thing that weve never really touched upon with one another,
she admitted freely circling her index finger over the center of his chest
and smiling.
What might that be? he questioned motioning to the screen in front
of them. The fact that I can actually sit through a movie like Casablanca
and not fall asleep like most men would?
Well no, but now that you bring that up, I actually do have to wonder
about that, she decided with a smirk. Somehow I didnt peg
you for being the kind of man who would kick back to this type of film.
Hey Bogart is one of the best, he winked down at her, What
did you have me pegged for a James Bond kind of guy?
Now that you mention it, yeah I did, she touched his cheek lightly,
I mean with the sexy accent and all
Ah, the accent, he couldnt help but tease, so now
we get down to the heart of the attraction between us. Youre one of
those women who are intrigued by a guy with an accent.
Ill admit it made you all the more mysterious and interesting
when we first met, she nodded in confession before reaching for a handful
of popcorn. However, given that your father is a big movie producer
in Hollywood and youve spent a lot of your life in the states, how is
it that you have one?
Truth be told I get it from my mother, JT explained proudly. She
was from London and even though shed come over to the states when she
married Camerons father long before she met mine, she never lost sight
of her roots. It wasnt uncommon for she and I to go away to London and
spend our summers with one another touring the countryside while my father
was nose deep in his productions and whatever aspiring starlet would come
across his casting couch. I mean sure, there wasnt a lot of time with
my mum and I, but we made the most of it when we could. In fact, after she
died I ended up spending a couple of years out in London trying to come to
terms with my life and the world around me. I guess I never tried to lose
the accent since its a strong part of who I am. Unless of course youd
rather me talk like this.
Evie couldnt help but giggle as he attempted to pull off a New England
accent.
Tell me sweetheart, does this make you feel more comfortable?
he inquired leisurely with traces of his accent still guiding his words despite
his attempts at hiding it.
Honey, I think you need to give it up right now because no one would
ever mistake you for a New Yorker, she chuckled in between munching
on her popcorn.
Ill have you know I was a New Yorker for about eighteen months
at one time, JT explained proudly before offering up a laugh. Ive
seen just about everything there is to see in the Big Apple. I even had a
walk in role on a soap opera around the time I was nineteen.
Really? her eyes widened in surprise. Now I cant see
that one.
Yes, it was great. I was hired in for one day and I had this earth shattering
set of lines. Want to see it? JT couldnt help but laugh watching
her nod. Setting the popcorn aside he stood up off of the bed and placed his
hands on his hips. You sure that youre ready for this?
Bring it on! Evie clapped her hands together before folding her
legs beneath her. She reached for a pillow on the bed and brought it down
into her lap.
Ok, JT laughed lightly walking over to the nightstand and pulling
one of the glasses theyd had brought in earlier off of it. He held the
nearly empty glass up in the air before feigning a sudden seriousness. His
eyes shifted around the room before he made a small movement in closer to
her.
Tell me darling, JT began with an even thicker accent than his
normal one. He pretended to adjust an imaginary tie he was wearing before
sliding onto the edge of the bed beside her, Do you come here often?
Evie giggled as he reached for her hand and raised it to his lips in a chaste
kiss.
Oh, he curled his lip in a small frown, You have a boyfriend
you say? Well, I dont see him here right now, so what do you say you
and I take a trip upstairs to my penthouse suite and Ill find plenty
of ways to help you forget about the man who is obviously out of his mind
to leave you here all by your lonesome love.
Evies eyes widened at the suggestion knowing full well that if JT had
approached her in that setting she wouldnt hesitate for a moment to
offer up a resounding yes. She watched him reach out to kiss her hand again
before a grin cracked over his features.
Then after that was the point where the girls boyfriend reentered
the bar after a fight they were having and I got decked, he laughed
in recollection. It was this big staged punch that the director went
over at least half a dozen times, but when everything was said and done I
got to have my two minutes of fame playing the guy who got punched out on
the floor before the shows super duo went upstairs to shag. It was quite
the event.
Obviously the writers and producers were out of their mind not to let
the female character fall into your arms, she wrinkled her nose at the
thought. Just the idea of having you on my television screen day in
and day out would be enough to keep me tuning in to whatever show it was.
Yeah, well youre always in for trouble when you get brought in
to cause some kind of stir with a super couple or so Im
told, he couldnt help but chuckle. Though I really dont
think my one day appearance made so much as a profound impact as I might have
liked it to. Plus once my father got wind of my appearance I think that pretty
much nixed any notion I might have had about turning to the glam of acting.
Why do you say that? she couldnt help but ask seeing him
slide back onto the bed where he was before.
Because my father wasnt about to let his screw up of a son tarnish
the reputation that hed worked so very hard to maintain in the Hollywood
limelight. It was bad enough that I was a drug addict and a total wanker in
his eyes, but when business was concerned, well lets just say family
always ranked second.
Im sorry to hear that, she sighed knowing only too well
what it was like to have a father who made your life miserable, but
you rose above it.
I did, he nodded again, with no thanks to my father of course.
Had I been on my own, I might have faded out completely destined to become
one of the statistics that people spoke of when it came to the crime rate
in New York, but Cameron stepped in and stopped that from happening.
Hes really a great guy, isnt he? she pondered the
thought.
It depends on who you ask, JT shrugged his shoulders. Camerons
no saint by any means and I dont always agree with what he does, but
in the same respect Ive made mistakes as well. I dont fault him
for that. Hes there for me and Im there for him. Its just
that simple.
I wish I had a brother like Cameron, Evie closed her eyes for
a moment thinking about her family life. All Ive know is my father
and my mother. Half the time shes so cracked out in being high that
I dont really even have her. For a while I thought she wanted to try,
but now, well now I know that all shes looking for is her next hit.
Im sorry to hear that, JT replied pushing her long, dark
hair away from her face only to discover the sadness that carried over her.
Its awful to have to live with someone who has fallen down that
path. I know because I remember what it was like being in my own skin at a
time when I thought that was the way of life as well.
Yes, but you changed, Evie reminded him pointedly. My mother
wont change. She has everything in the world to live for. I mean most
people would love to be able to have a daughter, but to her Im just
another annoyance. I know things with her and my father have always been strained
probably because he wouldnt ever marry her. I dont know why, but
after they had me they still kind of kept separate lives until he needed something
from us. Usually hed have me around to help him on one of his scams
and with my mom, well when he was drunk and in the mood he might have use
for her.
She shuddered at the thought before turning to JT again, But Im
sidetracking from my original question.
Which might that be? he asked running his index finger over her
bottom lip before speaking up again. Though you know you can talk about
the past. Its a part of who you are and I want to know all there is
to know about you Evelyn.
The only time people really called me that was when I was getting in
trouble and I hated it for the longest time, she couldnt help
but reveal, though when you say it the name sounds charming.
If it bothers you, then I dont have to say it, he apologized.
No I like it. I like that and Evie, she shook her head without
hesitation. Anything you say to me always sounds a thousand times sexier
than it would falling from anyone elses lips.
Hence the accent again, he teased with another wink. I see
what you love about me.
Just about everything, she answered honestly pushing the bowl
of popcorn aside to make room for herself on his lap. She straddled his thighs
before bringing her arms around his shoulders to draw him in nearer to her.
Although there is one question that we keep detouring from and Id
like to get back to that.
What might that be love? he leaned forward to steal a quick kiss
from her soft lips.
Whats your real name? she whispered, the warmth of her words
buzzing against his lips. I mean I know Ive always called you
JT, but it must be short for something.
You dont want to know, he smirked in response dodging the
question.
Yes I do, she insisted searching his dark eyes. I mean the
way I look at it I should know all about the man Im going to marry.
You do know all about the man that I am, he reached for her hand
placing it over the center of his chest. You know that Im not
always the most stand up of men, but for you I would climb to the heavens
and bring you anything you desired. Im a bit cranky after a long day
of work, but I still can enjoy kicking back with an old classic film such
as this one, which by the way that comes from my mother. She was into American
classic cinema as opposed to what my father put out there and I grew fond
of it as well.
I can see why, Evie squeezed him in closer to her, Although
I hate that there isnt a happy ending in some of these.
Not all endings can be happy, he whispered in response, as
it seems that the most remembered love stories are the most tragic.
I dont like tragic love stories, she curled her lip in a
pout, because I dont like to cry.
Theres nothing wrong with crying when you see real love onscreen.
It just serves as a reminder for us to hold onto what we have in our lives
against the odds, he cupped her face in his hands. Movies of tragic
romance only make the rest of us appreciate all that we can still hold onto
in our lives.
Perhaps, she shrugged her shoulders, doubtful with his words,
but still she couldnt help but try to stay focused on the question at
hand. And as entertaining as this conversation has been, you still havent
given me what I asked for.
On our wedding day love Ill clue you in on that small part of
who I am, but for now, why dont we focus on the packing well need
to do since our flight leaves in a few hours?
Remind me again why you thought that we should leave today, she
groaned outwardly. She shook her head and met his gaze again, Honestly
JT I think were accomplishing so much more here in this time together.
I wouldnt trade this time for anything in the world, but I can
promise you that youll be one with the island when you get there. Its
one of the most incredibly romantic places and Im certain that well
be able to discover more about one another in the journey, he assured
her with a tender kiss.
I hope so because the next time were finally alone with one another,
I dont intend on us putting the brakes on everything like we did this
morning, she whispered heatedly against his lips, her words sweeping
over him in a seductive temptation.
Believe me after this morning I know full well that resisting is futile,
he teased catching the blush that carried over her cheeks at the memory of
their time with one another. On the island things will be as weve
talked about. Well be away from Coral Valley and on the road to a happily
ever after.
As long as it doesnt turn into a tragic romance, she sighed
snuggling in against his chest once again.
Never love, he whispered dropping a tiny kiss on her forehead
as he realized that their time away from Coral Valley would be everything
that they needed and more to break away from the stress that was hanging over
them. Yes, they might have found one another in Coral Valley in an unconventional
way, but JT was certain that when they were alone in paradise with one another
everything else would fall into place for them completely.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
You wanted to see me? Becca blurted out knocking on the door
to Heathers office only to find Heather hunched over her desk shuffling
through papers.
Yes, I did, Heather nodded drawing in a nervous breath before
tucking her work aside. While shed wanted nothing more than to avoid
this issue altogether after long contemplations, shed realized there
was really no other way around dealing with this. Can you shut the door
behind you?
Of course, Becca smiled at Heather before doing as instructed.
Im glad that you called me in here because I was thinking about
the upcoming campaign youre working on for the Sweet Things chocolate
marketing approach and I got to thinking about what we might be able to do
to help bring sexy and cutting edge to it. I know that creative isnt
my area of expertise, but after you and I talked a few times you motivated
me to take a step forward in terms of expanding my career.
Becca about that, Heather set down the pen that shed been
working with before meeting Beccas eyes. Maybe you should sit
down for a minute.
Sure, Becca nodded doing as instructed. She focused on Heather
again sensing that there was a tension in the air. She cleared her throat
uneasily and spoke up, Is there something wrong?
Actually, Heather shifted in her seat uncomfortably, Ive
been thinking lately and while youve done some incredible work here,
I really dont believe that this is the place where youll be able
to expand your creative background.
Heather, it was just a suggestion, but if youre not interested
in my ideas, then never mind. I like what I do and
Becca offered
up apologetically while folding her hands in her lap.
No, its not that. Its just that
Heather bit
down on her lower lip feeling a moment of courage fading away from her. While
Heather had made up her mind about what she needed to do, she just couldnt
find the right words to break it to Becca. Of course remembering the way that
Kipp was upset over the situation, Heather knew full well that she wouldnt
force Kipp to have to endure that kind of hell that Becca had put him through.
The fact to the matter is that Mr. Stone who is a co-founder of this
company has another position open in one of his affiliate companies that I
think youll find very lucrative. Hes been searching for the right
person to run his European division for a while and given the skills youve
brought to the table, you could easily work as head of the division.
But Im working here
Becca stammered confusion carrying
over her.
I realize that, but when I reviewed your resume again I saw that youre
far too skilled to be working as an assistant to Mr. Mahoney, Heather
cleared her throat once again. Given your advertising background, I
think you would be more than enough of an asset working for Mr. Stones
company and Ive taken the liberty to phone in a few favors with him.
His head human resources has already been faxed your resume and it ready to
set up an interview, which is really more of a technicality as Im fairly
certain youll be hired without second thought. Its just going
through the proper channels you see and
Im flattered that you thought of me Heather, but I cant
just up and go to Europe, Becca frowned at the suggestion. My
life is just starting here in Coral Valley and
Yes, but Coral Valley is a small town. There are so many things in Europe
that you can obtain that you wouldnt be able to have here. This place
is sheer boredom most of the time where as working in Europe can offer international
perks and
Heather tried to sweeten the offer to her.
But Im not really an international kind of gal, Becca snubbed
her nose at the idea. Ive enjoyed being in the states for most
of my life.
I realize that, but youll be making more money and
Heather attempted to reason with her once again. Itll be an opportunity
to start over and begin a new life.
I dont want a new life. Im happy with who I am and what
I have, Becca sat up straighter. Sure, there are things that I
might want to forget, but I think Ive already found a steady and secure
starting point. I wouldnt want to risk that for something that is completely
foreign to me.
I can understand your concerns Becca, but in life sometimes the biggest
rewards we gain are by the unexpected surprises and risks we take. Europe
is this whole other world of glamour and excitement and
Im sure to most people it would sound like a dream, but Im
happy here in Coral Valley. I just found a nice apartment and
Becca continued to explain with a frown. She stopped mid-sentence before looking
to Heather once again. This isnt really about wanting to find
me a better position that Im more qualified for, is it?
Look Becca, the offer is a great one. The company youll be working
for will set you up with a villa and
Heather tried to stick to
the plan that shed set out for this encounter with Becca.
And what? Ill just get the hell out of town before you can give
me a legitimate reason why you dont want me working here? Becca
questioned abrasively, her brow scrunched with agitation. Tell me Heather
did you really ask me in here to throw a sweet deal on the table for me or
to make me go away because you cant handle a little competition?
Excuse me, Heather blinked back at Becca surprised by her tone.
What did you just say?
You heard me, Becca sat up straighter, her eyes narrowing down
at Heather. Obviously youve got a bit of an insecurity complex
considering that you cant stand the idea of someone else stealing your
thunder.
I beg your pardon, Heather frowned in response.
I mean I heard all about what you did with your sister where Kyle was
concerned, but you would think that now that you have him youd just
get over trying to control Kipp, Becca tossed at her flippantly. I
mean thats what this is about, right?
Look Becca, Im offering you a really nice job with lots of potential
and
Heather took in a calming breath in one last effort to be
polite.
And youre so threatened by the fact that Kipp and I have something
special that you thought youd bribe me into leaving before I could intrude
upon your perfect little family youve got going. Tell me something Heather,
does it really bother you that much that Kipp isnt falling at your feet
anymore in worship? Becca snarled at her. Are you really that
insecure about yourself that you have to try to hold onto him as well when
its clear that hes moving on with someone new?
Kipp has moved on with Kellen, not you, Heather snubbed her nose
at Becca having had more than enough of Beccas ramblings.
Is that what Kellen is trying to say? I mean is that why youre
doing this? Because Kellen cant handle the fact that Kipp and I are
committed to one another now? Becca forced a pinched laugh while bringing
her hands up in the air with a mock clap. Oh this is priceless. Your
friend complains because Kipp left him high and dry and suddenly Im
supposed to just go away after I found real love for one of the first times
in my life.
Becca, look I dont know what happened to give you the impression
that you and Kipp have something considering that I know full well that Kipp
would never
Heather replied with a frown of her own.
How the hell would you know what Kipp has been up to considering that
all you cared about where he was concerned was getting your hands on his money?
All you wanted was for him to jump start your career, but with me he has real
love. I care about Kipp for the man that he is, not for what he can do for
me to advance my career, Becca chortled with a dark rage behind her
tone. From where I sit I see a woman who has been sucking the life out
of Kipp from the moment she met him. If it wasnt for Kipp, then you
would never even have this company to begin with. Hes the reason that
you can sit in that chair snubbing your nose at me and pretending that youre
better than me, but you arent. You couldnt even keep Kipp, yet
you want to condemn me for having his heart
You assaulted him! Heather finally snapped at her. You took
advantage of the fact that Kipp was having problems and then you decided that
rather than leaving him and Kellen the hell alone, that you would move in
for the kill when he was completely out of it!
Move in for the kill? Becca snorted wildly. Oh Heather you
are sadly mistaken. Kipp and I made love and he told me just how much it meant
to him--how no other woman could compare to what he and I have with one another.
Sure, he might have been pining away for you all that time, but hes
smarter now. He knows a real woman when he sees one.
And I know someone in need of some serious therapy when I see one,
Heather huffed feeling tension coiling through her body. The way I see
it Becca you have one of two options, you can either take the job Im
offering you through Stone Corps affiliate companies or you can clear out
your desk and start looking for another place of employment.
So youre firing me? Becca blinked back at her. You
jealous bitch!
Jealousy has nothing to do with it sweetheart, Heather hissed
back at her before standing. In fact the way I see it, Im guessing
you picked option number two, which means I want you out of my offices in
the next half hour or Ill have security see you out.
You cant fire me! Becca stood up and glared at Heather.
Im a good worker and
And Im sure youll have no problems finding another job,
but it wont be working for me or with my company, Heather waved
her hand dismissively before motioning to the door. Now get out!
You havent heard the last of me. You wont get away with
this! Becca snarled clenching her fists at her sides angrily.
If you know whats good for you, youll move on and not try
to start something that will only blow up in your face, Heather warned
her simply, as Cameron Stone is still a partner in the company and this
situation could go in a new direction if he is aware of whats transpired
between you and Kipp, who was his step-brother once.
Your threats mean nothing to me Heather. Try if you will, but you wont
stop Kipp and I from being together. If you think this changes anything, youre
wrong! Becca shouted before stomping out of Heathers office in
a rage.
I certainly hope Im not, Heather sighed reaching for her
phone and calling Kipps office in the hopes of warning him that Becca
was on the rampage and that if he knew what was good for him, hed stay
as far away from her as possible!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Go in the kitchen and get something to drink, Cameron ordered
seeing Sarah roll her eyes, but this time she was reluctant enough to go and
do as she was told. After getting into a fight with Diego at the hospital,
Cameron wanted nothing to do more than to just rest. He got Sarah to go through
with the paternity test and he was already going out of his mind with this
girl and what she was doing. Moving over toward the living room he reached
for the remote on the coffee table but only saw a pair of feet resting on
it. His gaze slowly followed the long legs before seeing the smiling face
of Kyle before him. Oh shit, what did I do now?"
You tell me, Kyle moved up from the couch to quickly bring his
fist to the center of Camerons face making him fall to the ground in
a thud. Moving in over him Kyle reached for the fax and set it down on the
ground before shoving Camerons head back again. Looking at the pained
expression over Camerons face Kyle smiled before kneeling down. You
cause the person I love pain and Ill cause you more pain than you will
ever expect to have.
Wait, what?" Cameron went to say something more only to feel Kyle
pick him up by the collar of his shirt sending him flying up to his feet only
to feel him shove him against the wall roughly. I didnt do anything,
I swear I didnt do anything.
Yeah, Im supposed to believe you how?" Kyle brought his fist
into the side of Camerons face hearing the sound he made at the impact.
Seeing Cameron turn to him with a questionable glance Kyle smirked before
shoving him into the wall again. You hurt Heather, you mentally abused
her and you physically abused her when she was pregnant you sick son of a
bitch.
Bringing his fist into the center of Camerons stomach he saw him hunch
down on his knees coughing from the impact. Moving in closer to Cameron, he
brought his knee up to the center of Camerons face seeing him fall to
the ground face first groaning out at the impact.
I am one sick son of a bitch when it comes to her I agree, Cameron
blurted out seeing Kyle hunch down next to him as he got to his hands and
knees, feeling a line of blood sliding from his lip down his chin. I
know I hurt Heather and I was an asshole for that and I deserve so much more
than this for doing what I did to her, but
Youre absolutely right, Kyle hissed reaching down quickly
to pull Cameron up from the ground and threw him back into the coffee table
seeing it break beneath him while a few things shattered around the room on
the floor. So thats why Im wondering why the hell you continue
to hurt her. Do you just want to die?"
Listen, I know youre pissed, Cameron held his hands up in
the air trying to slide back against the couch, resting his head against the
cushions for a moment to take a rest. Trying to breathe and take a moment
to get the air back to his lungs he saw Kyle moving in closer to him and he
let out a noise of protest. Honestly Kyle, what I did back in the day
was screwed up, but Ive done nothing to Heather recently. I have no
reason to, I would never want to hurt her again.
You see I find that hard to believe because its kind of the saying
once a cheater always a cheater, Kyle pointed out grabbing Cameron by
the hair and pulling him up roughly hearing him grunt out with the pressure.
Bringing his knee into Camerons stomach he heard him groan out in pain
before hunching over only to get Kyles knee in the center of his face
again. Except mine is more like once a scumbag always a scumbag kind
of a thing.
Kyle, I did nothing to Heather, Cameron blurted out feeling the
paper that Kyle dropped beneath his fingers and he lifted it to his eyes before
letting out a small noise. You think I did something like this? I would
never do something like this.
And I know that how?" Kyle picked him up by the collar again hearing
Cameron choke with the movement he did and Kyle wrapped his thick fingers
around Camerons neck. Give me one reason why I shouldnt
kill you right now for hurting the woman I love.
The woman you love?" Sarah questioned from the corner of the room
seeing Cameron and Kyle look over in the general direction of where she was
standing. Making her way out of the room she smiled and moved in closer to
them. Kyle, if you loved me all you had to do was tell me. It didnt
have to go this far in beating Cameron because I would go back to you any
day.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Jason, Grady blurted out seeing Jason reading one of his cases
over while he waited at his desk. Quickly moving forward Grady snatched the
case file from Jason seeing the way Jasons blue eyes stared up at him
before smiling. You cant be looking at that, its not even
a closed case.
Oh I know, I already had finished reading it, Jason explained
standing up from the chair behind the desk and moving around the desk to stand
in front of Grady. Seeing Gradys green eyes stare up at him with somewhat
of a shock or anger, he shrugged his shoulders and let out a small laugh.
I was just re-reading it to see if I missed something. From what it
sounds like
You need to learn what to do when you are waiting for someone,
Grady interrupted Jason seeing him shrug again before leaning back against
the desk and folding his arms out in front of his chest. I love your
sister so I wont get too mad at you, but you cant do that Jason.
Oh give me a break, you love me too, Jason winked feeling Grady
hit him in the center of the chest before he took in a deep breath thinking
about what he just read. Taking in a deep breath he was about to give his
opinion, almost stopped but decided to go on. I would go with the husband
on that case. He was getting divorced, lost his job, had no money, had nobody
to confirm that he was at this restaurant and he said here that he was watching
the Giants and the Jets game on a Saturday of this day, but I know for sure
that it was the Giants against the Packers. So, hes full of it Grady.
Well, Grady thought things over before looking back over his shoulder
at Jason seeing the way his blue eyes looked into his before nodding. That
is smart. How do you know that off hand?"
Im a football man just like you, I just know what Im talking
about and I had a money bet going on that game so maybe it helped a bit,
Jason admitted seeing Grady seem to be somewhat impressed before setting the
case down and moving in front of Jason wondering what in the world was so
important. Okay, kiddo. Whats the problem?"
Well, Jason saw Grady reach for the cherry coke from his desk
and open it to start drinking it. Thinking of ways to say this right Jason
just came right out very bluntly with the idea of what happened earlier. I
may have kind of lied to Mindy about who I was to get her to hang out with
me more. I told her I was gay.
What?" Grady choked spitting out his pop seeing the unpleasant
look behind Jasons young features while he wiped at his face to get
the pop off his face that Grady spit on him. Grady laughed heartedly before
shaking his head slowly seeing Jasons blue eyes staring out at him.
Youre kidding right?"
No, Im not kidding at all Grady. You can see how much I like this
girl and she thought I was gay because she heard me talking about my dog dying
and she thought it was my boyfriend, Jason replied truthfully feeling
like he was talking to his father right now about having a date with a girl
except it was a much more screwed up situation than that. She told me
she wouldnt be close to me at all if I wasnt gay, so I was pretending
to be gay so she will still hang out with me and I dont know what Im
going to do.
Well I say you have two decisions you can make over this. Either you
will tell her the truth and try to explain to her what happened so she understands,
Grady pondered the thought slightly cracking a smile not believing that someone
would actually own up to that just to get attention from a girl when they
werent even gay. Or two, just keep lying to her and tell her you
are gay and love that certain part of a man.
Yeah, thats probably the right one to do, Jason answered
hearing Grady choke again as he dropped down the couch in the corner and stared
out at Grady. What? She thinks it the only way to be close to me, so
if Im close to her like that then I win. I get to have her with me all
the time and no worries.
Did you get dropped on your head when you were a baby?" Grady could
actually see Jason pondering the thought and Grady laughed before shaking
his head slowly. Leaning back against his desk he stared out at Deanas
younger brother who seemed to come to him for everything. Are you really
gay?"
Of course not, I just want to be closer to her Grady. I thought you
got that in the last thing I just told you. She is only close to me because
I said Im gay.
Well that doesnt make it right to lie to her Jason, Grady
pointed out seeing the way that Jason shrugged again and he shook his head
slowly. No, Im right Jason--I only see this screwing up any relationship
you have. You cant live a relationship if you dont have trust
and truth in the relationship. Without that, youre relationship with
everyone is bogus. You cant have a relationship of lies, that screws
up everything.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Russ heard the sound of shuffling outside of his office door. Pushing his
chair away from the desk he opened his door up to find Mindy seated at her
desk. She was shuffling through a few papers, but Russ felt it was a good
time to check in on her especially after how things had been going lately.
Making a small step out of his office he cleared his throat in an attempt
to capture her attention.
Hey kiddo, how is it going? Russ questioned seeing her turn around
to smile up at him.
Russ, hey, she greeted him brightly rushing over to embrace him,
You have no idea how good it is to see you standing there no doubt ready
to bark out orders at me.
Actually I was hoping to check in with one of our latest reporters,
he replied hugging her in response before looking down at her, Ive
been looking at some of the work youve been turning in lately when I
was away and I figured it was about time for you to move on. I dont
think you can be my secretary anymore.
What? she blinked back at him in astonishment, Russ are
you saying youre firing me?
Far from it, he shook his head at her before offering up a small
smile, I would like you on as a full time staff writer.
Are you serious? her eyes widened in astonishment, Russ
are you for real?
As real as your getting a promotion would be, he nodded in confession
seeing the way her eyes lit up at the possibility.
Oh my God. This is like a dream come true for me. You have no idea how
long Ive waited to hear you say that when
she stopped herself
before eyeing him intently, Russ, you arent just saying that because
of whats been going on lately, are you?
What do you mean? he feigned innocence knowing full well that
she wasnt about to let it go.
Youre only doing this because I lost Hunt, arent you,
she frowned up at him, You feel sorry for me because I lost the man
I loved.
No, Im doing this because you deserve it Mindy and I shouldve
taken a chance on your abilities sooner. I was stubborn before and I regret
not being able to give you that chance you shouldve had. You deserve
to be a writer kiddo. Youre good at it and I wouldnt want it any
other way around here, he paused searching her eyes for a long moment,
but since youve brought it up, how are you holding up with things?
Each day is an uphill climb. I mean I keep waiting for him to walk through
the doors and just tell me this was nothing more than a bad dream, she
confessed with a sadness in her tone. I keep expecting for him to return
to me, but then reality hits and I know it isnt happening. Second chances
like that dont happen like they did in your case. We arent that
lucky.
I wish we all were Mindy, he sighed seeing the tears threatening
behind her eyes, but you know if you need anything--anything at all
Avery and I are here for you.
I know, she bit down on her lower lip to keep her emotions under
control, I really appreciate that. Its been really hard lately,
but Ive had good friends who have been supporting me with each twist
and turn. I have a friend who was there when it happened and hes been
very good with me.
Im glad to hear it, Russ nodded in response listening to
her talk.
Its still just so hard to believe that some drugged out whacko
couldve taken away someone so special like that, Mindy sat on
the edge of her desk fighting to keep her emotions under control. I
mean when I think about how senseless losing him was
I know, he nodded in response hating to see her so upset.
Its just so unfair, she blurted out with a huff before meeting
his green eyes again, what makes things worse is that Hunt wasnt
the last of it. Its a never ending trend around here. How many people
are going to have to die because some jerk out there is pushing his poison
on the world?
I wish I had the answers, but
Russ watched her reach for
the newspaper on her desk.
Did you see this? she held it up to show him, Chris just
did a story on the guy that shot Hunt. Turns out that the guy was working
for some big drug boss named Guerrero in Florida. I mean I had no idea that
this junkie was actually tied into so many things.
Im sorry, Russ reached out to take the paper from her hand,
If I knew Chris was running something on the man that shot Hunt, then
Its okay, Mindy offered up a small sigh, He cleared
it with me first asking if he could print the story. I said it was okay. I
wanted other people to know about whats going on around here. They have
a right to see whats happening to our town.
Not everyone is this evil Mindy, Russ waved the paper around in
the air as he caught a brief glimpse of the story Chris had put together about
the death of Guerrero. Its just terrible that this has to happen
here when we are a quiet place.
Its creepy, she admitted opening her mouth to say something
more, I mean when you think about it, that Guerrero guy was a pretty
bad guy and it turns out that he has ties to CV. According to Chris Guerrero
was working closely with someone from this area--someone that authorities
believe is still running their operation. Given that Guerrero grew up just
outside of Coral Valley, they think his empire started here. The national
press has been firing off about it since the man was gunned down on the Florida
docks. It seems that its finally brought attention to Coral Valley,
but not the positive kind.
I would hate to believe that were getting so much bad press considering
that Coral Valley isnt all about this kind of scandal, Russ waved
the paper around again before shaking his head, Though if anyone harasses
you in any way about whats been going on with you after Hunts
death, you tell me and Ill take care of it.
Thanks Russ. I appreciate that, Mindy paused for a moment eyeing
him intently, and about that raise
Its yours if you keep up the good work and follow your instincts.
Id be honored to have you as my latest staff writer, he mouthed
reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small piece of paper, How
does this sound like a first assignment?
Mindy reached for it, her eyes scanning the small page before she grinned
up at him, Are you serious?
As serious as it says, he nodded in response, think you
can handle it?
Boy can I ever, she promised brightly knowing that this latest
assignment was the jump start she needed to get her thoughts on track with
her career now that her personal life was falling to pieces. This is
perfect.
Great then give me a full report tomorrow, Russ waved back at
her seeing a spark light behind her eyes.
Youve got it boss, she waved at him brightly before rushing
off in the newsroom no doubt to share her big news with everyone else.
Smiling Russ watched her leave before returning to his office. Closing the
door behind him, he walked back over to the desk and started to skim over
Chris Foleys piece on the death of Guerrero. There wasnt much
to say other than it sounded like a professional hit, but as the story went
on to speak about how Guerrero had family that was in Coral Valley, Russ realized
that things were certainly taking a turn for the worse in town. First there
was the situation he had personally experienced with Bruce Mathis, then the
whole threat of Nicholas Ashford and now the rising drug concerns in the community.
It was enough to be worried about what the future held for his daughter, Russ
realized taking a seat in his chair only to hear his phone ringing.
Hello, he clumsily mouthed into the phone setting the newspaper
down and trying to reclaim his hold on the phone when there was a faint whisper
on the other side of the line.
Mr. Denton, the voice mouthed in response.
Yes, may I help you? Russ heard the static on the other end of
the line causing him to strain to hear the caller, Are you there?
Im here and I can help you, the voice explained with a hesitation,
Im sure in being a newsman youve heard all the buzz about
the untimely demise of Mr. Guerrero down in Florida.
What about it? Russ questioned realizing this call wasnt
just a social call.
I can give you an exclusive on what really happened the night he was
gunned down. I can tell you straight up what it was that caused him to meet
his maker and further more I can give you something that the police dont
have, the voice informed him in a low, raspy tone.
And why is that? Russ couldnt help but question doubt in
his tone.
Because I was there. I saw everything that happened that night and I
want to break my silence, the voice paused for a long moment.
Reaching for a pen and a piece of paper Russ sat up straighter, Just
tell me what you want me to know.
Ill do better than that. Ill give you concrete evidence
of what is really going on, the voice hinted with an air of promise
in his tone. That is if youre interested in making the break in
this case.
Oh Im more than interested, Russ replied realizing that
hed just stumbled upon the biggest story of the century it would seem.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...