Episode 399
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Whatever you did to my sister Ashford, youre going to pay for
it, Cameron warned pacing around his study after hed thought about
what had played out right in front of him. Thinking about the fact that no
one had seen his sister since shed been with Brant, he couldnt
help but worry. If you hurt her in any way
Oh please, Brant rolled his eyes at Cameron, You know damn
well youre the one who took her. You know you have her somewhere and
If I had her somewhere then she would be safe, but because she was with
you there is no telling what couldve happened to her, Cameron
snarled at him before redirecting his anger over in Kevins direction.
This is your fault. You promised to take care of her and be there for
her. It was your job that youve been paid to do and once again youve
failed her just like you did all those years ago when she lost the baby.
That wasnt my fault! Kevin snapped his voice in a low rumble.
I was doing work for your father--work that couldnt wait. I tried
to get out of it, but no one would let me.
And now whats your excuse Kevin? Cameron snapped back at
him, his angers mounting. You and Brant have both torn apart my house
searching for her and you came up with nothing. You shouldve been at
her side, but instead you opted to ignore your responsibilities.
Listen to me you
Kevin snarled moving forward after having
had more than enough of Camerons accusations. His dark eyes narrowed
in over at Cameron, jaw flexed with anger as he took in a small breath. Ive
dedicated my life to being there for her. Time after time Ive given
up my own happiness to see to it that she would be safe.
And look what its doing for her right now Kevin. Youre a
failure now like you were back then and if anything happens to her, then this
is on your hands, Cameron shifted his gaze between both men. Both
of your hands.
When I find out what youve done with her, youre going to
go down Stone. No more games in the matter. Youre going to pay for what
youve done pure and simple, Brant clenched his jaw over at Cameron
wanting nothing more than to tear him apart limb for limb until he spoke the
truth about what hed done to Angela.
Get out of my house! Cameron snapped over at Brant, this time
sitting up straighter in the chair hed been in now that his security
guards had made their way to the room. He motioned to the three men standing
behind Kevin and Brant and spoke up again, Please see to it that these
two are off of my property immediately.
Yes sir, one stepped forward ready to snag Kevins arm until
Kevin shoved him away.
Keep your hands off of me! Kevin scowled sharply glaring over
at the man.
When I find her Im going to make sure you can never hurt her again
Cameron. Your days are numbered, Brant warned before turning to Kevin
and motioning that it was time to leave.
Ill be back, Kevin assured Cameron before moving out of
the study with Brant to leave the Stone Estate.
Not if I can help it, Cameron mouthed under his breath walking
over to the desk area. He picked up the phone and dialed a familiar number
waiting for someone to pick up the other end of the line. Once he heard the
voice on the other side he spoke up in a firm, commanding tone. Listen
to me I have a project for you to take care of and I dont want you to
ask any questions. My sister is missing and I want you to find her. I dont
care what you have to do to bring her back, but I want her back home unscathed
and the person that took her, well lets just say I want you to see to
it that they never see the light of day once Angel is back with me. Is that
clear?
Crystal, the man on the other end of the line replied as Cameron
hung up the phone ready to unleash his rage upon the person who had taken
Angela. Now that his sister was missing he vowed that heads were going to
roll!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
You know if you would have told me a few weeks ago that we were going
to be here, I would have said you were crazy. I would have never believed
that, Wendy whispered seeing the way that Ken moved in closer to her
to listen to her, wrapping his arm around her waist while they walked down
Paris, France. Just look at it Ken, its just so beautiful.
Tell me about it, Ken whispered seeing the way Wendy looked up
at him with her dark eyes and he offered up a smile of his own. Looking around
the area before them he would have never guessed that he would be here either
because it just seemed insane for him to be out of the country. The world
didnt seem to move quick enough for him and now that he was here he
couldnt believe it. It was like his life was at a standstill, the wonders
of the world begging for him to find the beauty in it all with Wendy by his
side and thats what he planned on. He planned on having the time of
his life during the day seeing things he never though hed see before
and when night came he was planning some of the best things he could imagine.
There was so much to do in the big city of Paris and when the lights went
out the beauty peaked through all the of the darkness and shined bright. If
you think this is wonderful, wait for later. When the lights go out, it will
be perfect.
Oh that just sounds fantastic, she blurted out moving in closer
to him to place her hand in over the center of his abdomen seeing the way
that he smiled down at her. You never really said why we came here.
Just out of the blue or what?"
Well, I just thought it would be better to get away from all the hectic
commotion going on at home, he smirked to himself thinking about what
he did with Avery and how angry he had gotten her. Obviously the way he was
acting made it good enough for her to believe he was Brant. He could remember
the last time she planted a kiss on him she could just tell who he was an
he had her in so much of an outrage that she couldnt even think straight.
It was a great memory that made a smirk press in over his lips each and every
time he kept playing it in his head. I seemed to just need a way to
get away.
After what he did at home he knew he was screwing up Brants life with
the women he had in it. There was no way that Brants luck would get
better with the shit he started right before he left and he was so proud to
have done that. Here in France it made it seem less likely like he did anything
at all and made Brant look more like an asshole liar to everyone he tried
to explain things. The only thing he did was help give himself a scapegoat
while he was away with Wendy. It all went by so perfectly and fit together
like a perfect puzzle and he loved every little bit of it.
I think were going to enjoy our time here, Ken smirked wrapping
his arm snuggly around her shoulders pulling her in closer to his chest. Sure,
when he got home he might have to explain the living hell that he caused or
people would just get smart and realize the person who Brant was when he got
home. That in itself would make it greater than any experience possible. Moving
into a tiny market Ken watched Wendy pull away from him to look at something
while he smirked at the thoughts playing out in his head. This is perfect.
Kenneth, a voice erupted through his ears, thick with a southern
accent and he closed his eyes hoping to God that he was just dreaming the
voice and it was someone random. Then when he felt the firm hand move in over
his shoulder and the thick laugh fill his ears he knew that this was no dream
at all. Gulping down he turned to face the brown eyes of a familiar man--his
uncle. Whats wrong? Dont feel like talking to your uncle
Rex?"
Rex, Ken tried to smile behind gritted teeth knowing that he had
never really been close to his uncle from the start and was getting nervous
as to how he even showed up there in the first place. Seeing his uncle take
off his cowboy hat and brush back his blonde hair, he gulped down hoping that
he would disappear before Wendy came back. So, what are you doing here?"
Who is this?" Wendy moved in behind Ken as Rexs brown eyes
widened before a cocky, wide smile pressed in over his features and he moved
forward reaching out for her hand. Feeling him take her hand carefully and
place a tender kiss in over the back of it, she smiled before shrugging letting
go and leaning into Ken. He sure is friendly.
Wendy, you should remember him. This is my uncle, Ken began seeing
Wendy look over his in general direction as Wendys eyebrows tightened
together when she looked over at him. This is Rex, my uncle.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
You know we probably should have waited before you decided to take
the giant leap into the unknown and get us trapped in here, Ben cursed
at Alexa, feeling his frustrations mounting after theyd spent hours
unsuccessfully trying to work their way out of the room theyd been trapped
in with one another. I really wish you wouldve just waited long
enough to formulate a plan before
Before what? Alexa sat up straighter in the corner that shed
opted to rest in when it was clear she and Ben werent leaving the room
anytime soon. Before you bored me to death with talk about your newly
reformed fiancée and her nomination for sainthood? Um no thank you,
but Id rather be locked in here with you complaining than listening
to you spill out all the virtues that I could take note of with Diane Stevens?
Oh please, Ben couldnt help but roll his eyes at her. He
turned around to face her with a tight scowl, You know as well as I
do youre only ragging on me about Diane because youre upset that
I stepped on your toes by working this case. Admit it you dont want
me here and thats really what this is all about.
Now that you mention it, Alexa stood up and started to dust off
her pants before approaching him, No, I dont want you here at
all Ben because the way I see it things were going fine, better than fine
even, in my investigation before you came down to Florida to muck it up.
Its not my fault that this case is falling apart at the seams,
Ben objected to her words, feeling a headache building in his temple as the
thick, musty odor of the storage room surrounded them.
Im not so sure, she shrugged her shoulders flippantly before
continuing. Ever since youve arrived, not only did I lose my informant,
but I lost every inkling of progress that Ive made on my case because
someone keeps sabotaging each and every one of our clues. Its almost
as if someone is tipping them off to where well be next.
And you think thats my fault? his eyes widened at the accusation.
Alexa, if you think about that for a long moment, youll realize
that Ive been with you this whole time. I havent left your side
or
What about the phone calls youve been making? she challenged
arching a curious brow as she folded her arms tighter in front of her chest.
How do I know youve really been calling Diane when you couldve
been offering up information for the right price? I mean you did work for
Chavez forever and
And if you believe that, then youre a bigger fool than I gave
you credit for being, Ben threw his hands up in the air and groaned.
Lexie, weve known one another forever, so for you to stand there
and start accusing me of tipping off some drug cartel, well it just proves
that you and I clearly are more estranged from one another than Id thought
possible. I wouldnt do that.
Then explain how this keeps happening to us Ben. Everywhere we go theres
a blown up building or a trail of corpses to follow, Alexa insisted
with an impatient huff, tossing her wiry dark hair behind her shoulders.
Yeah and um since weve got neither of those working for us right
now, maybe we should stop fighting and concentrate on getting the hell out
of here before you and I fall into one of those statistics when someone realizes
that were here, Ben tossed back at her with an icy glare.
Fine, she snubbed him as she turned around to investigate around
the room further as she had done hours earlier. Though I just dont
think that your priorities are in order here Ben.
Gee, first you accuse me of leaking confidential information and then
you start lecturing me on my priorities, Ben couldnt help but
laugh at her as he faced her once again. Tell me something Lex, how
do I know its not you tipping these people off? Youre the one
who has been under deep cover for all this time living the lifestyle. Ive
seen your apartment and I know damn well theres no way that the Bureau
would be paying for all of that. Surely there has to be perks to being on
the job this long pretending to be someone youre not in living this
double life.
Youre one to talk about a double life, she laughed haughtily
as she spun on her heel to face him. From what Ive seen Ben, youve
been living the cushy life as well living it up at my cousins company.
You havent had to be out on the job thick in over your head so deep
that you cant go back to the life that you had before. You have been
able to stay at home and do everything that you could do before, but you just
have to follow a few guidelines that were nothing. Ive given up my entire
identity and had to work for street credibility and
And it hasnt put you any closer to where you should be considering
that were right here now, Ben rolled his eyes at the thought,
Look Lexie
No you look Ben, she poked him in the shoulder with an angry shove.
I might be living in a way that makes it seem like Im being spoiled,
but Im not. This isnt at all the life Id asked for and yes,
I love my job, but think about it Ben. Given who I am I could have far more
than what Im in right now. I couldve been like my cousin Blake
who sits back and simply basks in the role of being an heiress. I couldve
let that be a full time job and allowed me to be a spoiled, pampered brat,
but I wanted to make a difference in the world. So before you start lecturing
me on whatever kind of things you think Im doing to screw the system,
maybe you should think twice about
Hey, Im not trying to fight with you, Ben raised his hands
in the air backing off as his tone softened. You were the one who accused
me of taking up with the other side and
And I was just venting off steam, she softened her tone as well.
Im just a bit claustrophobic and
And weve wasted enough time in here already, Ben surveyed
the room they were in again, We need to get out of here Lex.
I wont argue that, she finally decided turning her attention
to the ventilation system. Maybe if we try I can fit through there.
Ben looked up at the overhead vent and found himself pondering the idea before
he shook his head, It wont happen. Even though youve certainly
got a slender frame, I dont think that
Gee, I didnt realize that youve ever taken the time to notice
my frame before, she winked at him before offering up a teasing grin,
Although I suspected that was what you were doing when you were checking
out my fish tank the other day.
What? Ben questioned, his eyes widening as he felt as though hed
been caught in that moment of embarrassment that hed fought to suppress.
Tell me, she couldnt help but tease him further, did
you like what you saw through the glass?
Alexa, I wasnt, he gulped instantly recalling what hed
witnessed when shed stripped down out of her undercover gear.
Yes you were, she struggled to repress the laugh that carried
over her lips, but its ok. I mean if you enjoyed the view, then
it proves that maybe youre not as lost as I anticipated you being when
you mentioned that you were engaged.
Being engaged doesnt mean that Im dead Alexa, Ben
cleared his throat uneasily before trying to make light of the situation,
Men just happen to have issues turning away when they see a beautiful
woman half naked. Its like this primitive instinct that takes us down
every time were confronted by it.
I didnt exactly confront you with the issue, but if you were looking
for me to offer up an invitation, she replied with a teasing undertone.
She stepped towards him and winked again, All you really had to do was
ask.
Alexa, stop joking, he replied nervously forcing himself to look
around the room once again now that it was clear that she was trying to push
his buttons.
Its ok to admit you liked what you saw, she shrugged her
shoulders as her grin expanded. I didnt mind the view either when
you were getting dressed the other night.
You mean you were
Bens eyes widened at her comment.
Finishing up with my makeup when I noticed you changing, she divulged
with a wicked smirk, and truth be told I never really thought you to
be a pink boxers kind of guy.
They were a gift from Diane for Valentines Day, Ben confessed
thinking about the ridiculous boxer shorts shed picked up for him.
Clearly, Alexa couldnt help but roll her eyes at the mention
of Bens fiancée, though if I recall when you were younger,
you were more of a go with the flow kind of guy who didnt dispense with
all the trivial layers that were associated with frilly pink boxer shorts.
They arent frilly, Ben protested with a frown.
Either way I dont think you wouldve bothered with the boxer
shorts in the first place, her eyes gave him a long, ravenous once over
and Ben found himself on edge in that moment. While he was certain that she
was teasing, there was something about the way that she looked at him that
had him wondering just what kind of danger theyd stepped into with the
conversation they were having.
Maybe I started wearing them because I knew that I had a peeping tom
that couldnt be trusted after our last assignment with one another,
Ben remarked with a pointed expression, That trip to the roach motel
taught me a lot of things.
Starting with the fact that youre the one who was more of the
peeper in our relationship, Alexa wrinkled her nose at him before turning
away, Besides, you shouldve noticed that I was wearing more than
usual as well.
Ben bit down on his lower lip thinking about how he and Alexa had been friends
for years. Time and time again theyd engaged in some playful flirting
with one another that had often at times hinted at something more between
them. When theyd worked with one another in such close quarters in the
past, there had been moments when theyd contemplated crossing the line
of friendship and partners to something more, but each time something had
arisen to prevent it from happening. At the time Ben had wished that theyd
gone in another direction when hed found himself trapped in a hell hole
down in Louisiana with her, yet in retrospect he was grateful that they hadnt
crossed that line with one another. If he wouldve made love to her then
like hed wanted to, then he was certain there would be even more uneasiness
between them especially now.
Look, I think I found something, Alexa motioned to the floor.
She pushed at the crate that was beside her before looking over her shoulder
at him, A little help might be nice here Ben.
Right, he nodded rushing forward and stepping up to assist her
in her mission. After a few seconds, he and Alexa had managed to clear the
area and discover a drain of sorts that had been buried from their view the
previous evening in the darkness.
Where do you think it leads? Alexa questioned as Ben knelt down
to test out the lock on the wiring beneath them.
Undoubtedly the sewers by the smell, he practically gagged as
his fingers tinkered with the lock, though I dont think were
going to get it open.
Of course we are, she insisted pushing him aside as she moved
in to give it her own personal inspection. Ill have you know Im
a master at lock picking Ben.
You werent last night, he mouthed under his breath only
to elicit a glare from her.
Thats because the lock on that door isnt at all the norm,
but this, she reached for the simple lock between her fingers, This
is a piece of cake.
Fine, then do your best, Ben stepped back and watched her pull
a barrette from her hair.
Watch me, she murmured taking a few minutes to tinker with the
lock until it finally broke free. She unlatched it before holding it up for
Bens approval. You were saying?
You are the master, he replied with a mock bow as she stood up
once again.
Of course I am, she tossed her hair back over her shoulders and
dusted herself off proudly, Now what do you say about us getting down
and dirty?
I think dirty is an understatement, Ben wrinkled his nose as he
looked to the sewer drain below, but for what its worth I hope
like hell that this gets us out of here.
Theres only one way to find out, Alexa opened up the top
to the sewer drain before crouching down in front of him, Just remember
to plug your nose.
And hope I dont gag in the process, Ben noted watching her
ease on down into the sewers as he planned to do the same in the hopes that
they werent somehow guiding themselves unknowingly to another dead end.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I really appreciate your taking the time to come out with me. I mean
first it was our disastrous workout that had you taking me to the hospital
against my dismay only to discover nothing was wrong and now this breakfast
that I just had to drag you out to after wasting your day. I mean Im
sure you probably had other things to do even though you and I talked about
having a meal together before I spilled out like I did on the treadmill, but...,
Diane spoke up from behind the forkful of eggs she had in front of her. Dont
get me wrong Im not like a freak or anything, but I hate dining out
alone. It just makes you feel so pathetic and, well out of touch with the
world around you.
Its my pleasure, Shane mouthed in response flashing her
a bright smile, I have no problems sharing a meal or even a day at the
hospital arguing with a beautiful woman when the moment arises. In fact I
welcome the idea. Well, not of you being hurt, but of being able to share
a meal with you.
Diane couldnt help but feel a blush carrying over her upon his words.
Thanks, but I was pretty impossible yesterday. Then when Deidra wasnt
there and you had to listen to me argue with that doctor, well I was sure
you would back out on me today since I can really be an impossible bitch sometimes.
Though Im glad you still wanted to go.
How could I not? Even wounded and angry, youre still by far the most intriguing woman Ive encountered in a very long time, Shane eyed her with amusement behind his eyes as she bit down on her eggs in between breaths.
Which proves that you dont get out much, though you know I have to say that youre much better company than my sister and her boyfriend. I mean they have this totally twisted relationship that is sappy and really lovey-dovey, Diane continued to ramble on as she set her fork down for a brief moment. It drives me nuts especially at a time like this when my boyfriend is out of town.
Hes a fool to leave you alone for even a second, Shane
noted reaching for the glass of water in front of him. He lifted it to his
lips and took a small sip before setting the glass down again, If you
were my girlfriend nothing in the world could get me to walk away from you
especially when you were in need of a breakfast companion.
Stop with the flattery, she swallowed the bite shed just
taken of her food, Youre going to inflate my ego to the point
that Ben wont be able to stand me when he returns. Hell absolutely
hate the woman Ive become.
All the more reason for you to forget about Ben and think about giving
me a chance, he reached across the table to take her hand in his offering
a flirty smile with the movement.
Shane, she spoke his name in a dark tone, feeling her face now
burning with what she knew would be a full blown flushed color. If you
keep this up Im going to start believing that youre serious.
Whos to say that Im not? he challenged arching a brow
as she pulled her hand away. Youre a beautiful woman Diane.
Who is engaged to another man, she corrected clearing her throat
uneasily. She reached for her water glass before looking around the café
again. That means Im off limits.
A little while ago he was your boyfriend, but now hes your fiancé,
he mouthed in response tossing a pointed expression out at her. Its
interesting how the terms shift once you get uncomfortable.
Im not uncomfortable, she corrected sitting up straighter
and putting on her best poker face. Im just stating the ground
rules up front so that you dont get the wrong idea about things between
us.
Somehow you dont strike me as a woman who adheres to the rules
easily, he leaned back in his seat amused by her expression. Stretching
his arms out across the back of the booth seat that hed been in, he
flashed her a sexy, arrogant smirk, And something also tells me that
you would rather welcome the notion of my getting the wrong idea. I think
the very thought excites you.
Believe it or not I tend to get my kicks in a more traditional fashion,
she shook her head and offered up a small laugh. Im very simple
and boring.
Now thats a lie if Ive heard it, he sat up straighter
leaning in over the table to meet her dark gaze. Neither one of those
adjectives seem to describe you in any way.
And just why not? Diane leaned forward as well matching his stare.
For starters, I can see that youre absolutely the last person
in the world who could ever be considered boring, he motioned to the
plate in front of her, The breakfast you have says that about you.
How so? she questioned tipping her head to the side. She tossed
her long, dark hair over her shoulder before dropping her gaze down to her
plate.
Well for starters, he mouthed in response to her unspoken challenge
to prove her wrong. He pointed to the eggs in front of her, You have
your eggs with hot sauce. While most people would find that to be pushing
the limits of culinary combinations Im guessing that by the exaggerated
amount youve poured over the eggs that youre one to push the limits
and extend the boundaries of the world around you. You like living life on
the edge and arent afraid to try something that you know full well stretches
beyond the rules so to speak. You like fire in your life, which the eggs that
way proves youre very passionate. You like it hot and when a potential
prospective situation that would be pleasurable arises, youre the first
to leap into the scenario. It may cause you problems at times, but you dont
care. You dont like being restricted to what the world wants you to
be. Conformity is not an option.
Really? she arched an amused brow before pointing to her small
bowl of fruit at her side. What does this say hot shot?
The fruit says that you like to be healthy, but given how much sugar
youve poured over the melon, it also tells me that you like things sweet,
he continued with a confident smirk, Youre a romantic at heart,
but you also dont bend to the old ideals of how a womans place
in the relationship would be. You like to be dominant and prefer the man in
your life to respect and appreciate all your attributes good and bad, which
naturally has caused you problems over the years. The guys that appreciate
the good want nothing but the boring life of assimilation that youve
fought like hell to stay away from and the bad boys, well you thrive on them,
but they are nothing more than a dead end. They get you hot and bothered,
but leave you in a tizzy when the novelty of the relationship wears off. Its
usually about then that you tell yourself that you need a good guy to balance
the disaster that you endured, but a good guy just doesnt cut it for
you. You want fire and passion and spontaneity that would very well only be
construed in a relationship of mystery and intrigue.
All that from sugar on my cantaloupe, she couldnt help but
break into laughter plucking a small rounded piece out of the bowl and dipping
it between her now parted lips. I think you have an overactive imagination
Shane.
Do I? he arched his brow again. Or is that what you want
me to believe because you really dont want me getting closer to the
real you because that frightens you?
I think that youve obviously watched too many television shows
that make you think that all women are searching for a wild time and the role
of being the temptress. Im quite content in the normalcy my life contains,
she explained matter of fact reaching for another piece of melon. Its
very rewarding.
No woman is happy in a state of normalcy. Boredom doesnt strike
me as a comfort zone you would find yourself in Diane, he reached for
a piece of bacon from his plate before taking a bite. You strike me
as a woman who thrives on adventure.
This morning is turning out to be one for me with all the self-analysis
youre giving me, she shook her head at him, Are you sure
youre not a psychiatrist?
Far from it, he laughed lightly before leaning in closer to her.
His eyes widened before he softened his tone ever so slightly. You wouldnt
guess what I did if you tried.
Im pretty good at reading people even though you think youre
the expert here, she mouthed in response scrutinizing him for a long
moment. Youre a writer arent you? Like a reporter or something?
Nope, he shook his head in response, Not even close.
Oh come on. Im sure I am, but youre being all secretive,
she frowned over at him curling her lip in a pout. Why dont we
just dispose of the secrets and you tell me?
If I did that youll find me far more mundane and that thrill we
have would be gone, he winked over at her, speaking up in a low, dark
tone. I will say that my career is anything, but boring though.
Hmm, she paused contemplating his words before laughing, Let
me guess youre a secret undercover spy working for the mafia as a hit
man.
And if I was? he mouthed with a contemplative stare.
Then I would hope that I wasnt your latest mark, she laughed
lightly tossing her hair behind her shoulders before wrinkling her nose at
him. Ok enough joking Shane. Youre such a dork.
A dork, he shook his head back at her, I take you out to
breakfast and this is what I get from you?
Youll get a lot worse if you dont shut up and eat your food,
she warned with mock authority in her tone.
Will I now? he leaned back eyeing her intently.
Thats right, she dipped her fork into her eggs again and
held them up in the air as if she would toss them at him. Now behave
or else.
I think Ill take or else, he leaned forward moving in to
swipe the eggs from her fork and taking the bite. Her eyes were glued to his
watching him swallow the bite before he smiled over at her. Just what
I thought. You like it hot just like I do.
Shane, Diane spoke his name before clearing her throat uneasily.
Quickly she sank back into her seat and looked around the café before
getting up. Ill be right back. I need to powder my nose.
Of course, he nodded watching her retreat to the ladies room and
leaned back knowing full well that she was feeling the obvious spark between
them. Smiling to himself he knew full well that he was getting closer to where
hed wanted her to be now that shed opened herself up to getting
to know him. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out his cell phone and dialed
the familiar number before grinning.
Hey, its me. I just wanted to call and update you, he explained
in a low voice, Things are going as planned. I already have Diane eating
out of the palm of my hand and soon, very soon Ill have her exactly
where I want her. When that happens nothing will be able to stop me not even
Ben. Theyll be history sooner rather than later and when that happens
you can rest assured that Ben wont think twice of his fallen angel.
You have my word on that.
Excellent, the voice on the other end of the line replied with
a pleased tone. Keep up the good work.
I will, Shane promised saying his goodbyes and sinking his phone
back into his pocket before Diane returned. Yes, things were certainly looking
up indeed. His plans were progressing better than hed hoped for and
soon very soon he would get Diane back to where she always belonged. It was
a mission he couldnt wait to complete as it was proving to be more entertaining
than hed anticipated it being when hed first accepted the position.
Now the world was his!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Moving into her bedroom Cori felt a bit of emptiness settling in at the pit
of her stomach as she moved in front of the mirror in her pajamas after waking
up. It seems liked forever ago she found out she was pregnant when it was
only yesterday. There were so many reasons she didnt want to believe,
so many reasons she didnt want to imagine this was happening.
I cant be pregnant, it just has to be some kind of mistake,
she whispered to herself looking in the mirror and pressing her hands in over
her slender stomach thinking that there was some reason these people thought
she was pregnant. She didnt see it all, she hadnt gotten bigger
and that had to have started to happen soon. This cant be right.
Lifting her shirt up her slender form a bit she saw no growth in her stomach
and shook her head slowly knowing that now Diego was gone and she couldnt
be having a baby. She just couldnt be, they had to be wrong because
she didnt even look like she was pregnant. There was just no way that
this was real, this had to be some kind of joke that someone was doing to
her.
There is no way, Im not pregnant. Not possible, she shook
her head feeling the denial grow up more and more because this was simply
just not possible. There was no way that the time could lead her to this,
not when everyone already thought she was crazy. Not when everyone wanted
to push her away and especially not when Diego was gone forever. She knew
shed never see him again and this was just terrible news. Please,
just be wrong.
Hearing the doorbell ring she turned toward her bedroom door pondering if
she was going to go answer it or not and when she started to move toward the
living room she already heard Dave open the door. Once in the living room
she met the glance of Nates green eyes and let out a disgusted noise
before heading back toward her room.
Hey Dave, excuse me a moment, Nate moved through the living room
putting his foot in the door before she could close it letting out a tight
whimper with the force she slammed the door at. Opening the door he moved
into the room and shut it behind him before lifting his foot up and holding
it wincing as he felt the stinging from it being closed in the door. Cori,
honey. Why do you keep trying to stay away from me?"
Nate, come on. I really dont need this right now, she laid
down on the bed seeing the way that he frowned and set his foot back down
on the ground. He folded his arms out in front of his muscular chest after
pressing back his mid length blonde hair behind his ear. I dont
know what you want and right now I really dont care. I just know that
you dont need to be here because I surely dont want you here.
No, no. You see--Im not going to leave until you talk to me,
Nate informed her moving over toward the bed to sit down and lean back on
his elbow, his green eyes staring out into her dark eyes as she tried to read
some kind of information from him. I know you are pushy and want me
out of here, but we need to talk about us.
There is no us Nate. There is no us, there was never any us and there
will never be any us. I dont know what you have stuck in your head that
makes you think you and I are some type of couple, but there is no us Nate.
Get that straight, Cori groaned standing up from the bed and moving
over toward the closet to try finding some clothes that she could put on and
still look decent in. After being in the hospital so long it seemed that she
could forget what her clothes even looked like. Nate, I dont know
what kind of sick plan you have in your head, but there is nothing that can
make me change my mind about you and I.
You see, thats where you are wrong about this whole thing. You
need a father of the baby now that Diego is gone and I need to grow up,
Nate gulped down leaning back further on his elbows, his green eyes seeming
to pierce through hers as she set the clothes down. You need a fall
back, I need a push forward. I would work perfectly for this. Were good
friends, we know each other to a degree thats good and not enough to
get in trouble. So whats wrong with the plan? Give me one reason it
will never work out and make it valid and Ill think about leaving. Thats
as long as its good enough.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Well if it isnt my favorite bad girl hanging around the on call
room, Don mouthed wrapping his arm around Deanas neck and pulling
her into the on call room with him from out of the hallway in a modified hold.
He rubbed his hand over the top of her blonde hair before offering up a laugh.
I hear youre getting into trouble yet again.
Trouble? she repeated turning around to face him with wide, innocent
brown eyes, Who me?
Yes you, Don reached out to pat the tip of her nose before reaching
for her hand. He dragged her further into the on call room and urged her to
take a seat down on the couch. Walking over to the coffee pot, he grinned
over at her, Share a break with me. Have a coffee.
Don I hate coffee, she replied wrinkling her nose up at him.
No, you dont hate coffee. You just hate hospital coffee,
he corrected holding up the pot and noticing the thick, murky, black substance
that looked a lot like sludge in front of him. And apparently so do
I since this stuff looks like motor oil. No bother though. Ill just
get us a couple of bottled waters while you prepare yourself to spill your
sins to your boy Don here.
Don if youre here wanting to talk about my sins I have to tell
you I dont think youre really up to hear about the various sex
positions that I prefer, Deana paused seeing his blue eyes widen and
he nearly choked on the gum he was chewing, Or are you?
Now now I dont think we need to dive into the x-rated land together,
Don blurted out his face growing red at the thought while watching her sink
back on the sofa triumphant in her attempt to embarrass him. He opened the
door to the refrigerator and bent down to pull out a couple of waters while
trying to banish the thoughts from his mind. Im talking about
other kind of sins.
Other kind of sins, she repeated in an innocent tone, Don
I dont partake in other kind of sins. Besides I didnt think any
other kind of sins were of interest to you except the sexual kind.
Ill admit that Im quite interested in the sexual kind of
sins, he used his hip to close the refrigerator door, but if you
start talking about that I think well have a very awkward holiday around
the house if you tell me something about Grady and your kitchen table, Ill
never eat at your apartment again.
I highly doubt a kitchen shag would stop you from cleaning out my refrigerator.
Youre a human disposal Don, Deana wrinkled her nose at him before
shaking her head. Besides, with your saying that it implies that I have
reason to be concerned about your kitchen. Should I be weary about having
my son come over and visit?
Not since Nate moved in. The only action I seem to be getting is from
my right
Don stopped himself shaking his head slightly while dropping
down on the couch beside her. Never mind. Were not having this
conversation. Lets cut to the point. I heard about what happened to
Dr. Vaughn the other day with his little sex toy encounter. You wouldnt
happen to know anything about how that came to be, would you?
Don, if you think for a second that I would have any unlawful carnal
knowledge of what Dr. Vaughn does behind closed doors, then you would seriously
need your head examined, Deana leaned forward to reach out and press
her fingers against his forehead. You dont feel like a fever,
yet the delirium has me wondering if
Ha, ha. Very funny, Don laughed in mock amusement shaking his
head at her, Dont play me like that Deana. I know you enough to
know when youre so full of it.
Im not full of anything and if I was I can assure you it would
have nothing to do with Zack Vaughn. Hes repulsive, Deana wrinkled
her nose at him. Hes so not my type. You should know that.
What I know is that the Shermans have a tendency to get into a bit of
trouble. I recall something along the lines of Jason sending a very similar
care package to a police officer that wrote him a ticket for speeding or perhaps
it was the time that Jason and your cousin wound up doing something almost
identical to that teacher that embarrassed them in front of everyone,
Don continued eyeing her closely. He popped the top off of his water and took
a long sip before wiggling her brow at her suggestively. It rings all
too familiar for you to know nothing about it.
Just because Jason had a unique idea once upon a time does not mean
that it was his exclusive property. Its entirely possible that someone
else mightve felt that a good healthy dose of public humiliation would
be justice for the disgusting perversions that Zack has spread around the
hospital. Or perhaps it was simply that those previously mentioned perversions
that Zack carries around with him extended into the working hours. I know
that freaks like that just have tons and tons of those kind of toys and
Deana fought to suppress the giggle that built up in the back of her throat.
She curled her legs up underneath her on the couch before laughing again.
Hey just because a man has tools of the trade to keep him busy during
a down time doesnt mean that hes a freak, Don objected curling
his lip in a frown.
Deana burst out in laughter again, Gee Don you wouldnt have anything
that you would like to confess here now would you? Any sins that you might
want to get off of your chest?
All Im saying is that I know you were the one that did it,
Don ignored her comment before his blue eyes met hers with a sudden seriousness.
While it was a nice touch, you have to be careful.
Im not afraid of Zack. You should know that by now, she
sat up straighter a defiant look carrying over her features. Besides
if he tried to trace the package if by some random chance someone was playing
a prank on him, he would see that it came from his bank account. He was the
one who placed the order so he cannot blame anyone but himself. There isnt
any proof to contradict that.
Even so youre playing with fire, he softened his tone a
bit before shaking his head at her. Youre too good to get into
trouble.
Im not going to get into trouble Don and besides Im not
as good as you think I am, she took a sip of her water before her dark
eyes met his again. Sometimes I can be downright wicked and its
rather rewarding. Men tend to enjoy it.
Deana, he shook his head at her, If you start talking that
way youre going to give me a heart attack.
She giggled again shaking her head at him, Oh come on can I help it
if you get all weirded out by the fact that you cant accept that I have
a very active sex life? Its not my fault you feel like youre my
older brother there.
No, thats not what I mean, he corrected shaking his head
at her, If you start talking about what a freak you tend to be, I might
have you pop up in one of my fantasies and that would freak the hell out of
me. I mean can you imagine us at Christmas and suddenly I start thinking about
you getting down and dirty with handcuffs and some massage oil.
I prefer chocolate or maybe caramel. Massage oil is far too sticky and
it just doesnt taste good. I like things sweet and useful. I mean youd
have to shower after both of those things, but if its something edible,
then you can have far more fun just taking it all in with your taste buds
and, Deana continued rambling on thinking about her own preferences.
Whipped cream can be nice too and
Okay stop, Don blurted out reaching out to clasp his hand over
hers. Im going to lose it if you keep talking that way. This is
a conversation that we should never, ever have again.
Deana paused for a moment feeling his fingers pressing in over her lips. She
tried to speak up only to feel the muffled vibrations of her voice rolling
off of his fingers.
Honey I love you, but I cant sit through a detailed exposition
of what turns you on. Thats going to kill me for sure just like Im
sure it would freak you out if I started telling you about this thing that
Shannon does with my nipples and
Don began feeling a tiny shudder
carry over him. He released her hand and sank back onto the couch. See
youre bringing out the worst in me.
You are such a baby, she wrinkled her nose at him before laughing.
If Grady was half as squeamish as you are Id be really in a bad
place.
Grady is the last person I want to hear about, Don shuddered in
response, Im just glad that youre happy with him. You deserve
a good guy.
He really is a good one, Deana nodded in response thinking about
her boyfriend and smiling. I never thought I would meet someone so wonderful,
but he proved my theories on life and men wrong.
Im glad to hear it. Thats what I was hoping for with you.
You need someone who makes you happy, Don added with a small smile.
That way I dont have to give myself an ulcer worrying about you.
Oh you jerk! she squirt her water bottle at him spraying him right
in the center of the face.
Thats it youre going down, Don reached out to her
putting her in a headlock. He started to give her a noogie only to feel her
pinch at his nipple in an attempt to get him to ease up on her. Deana
thats not hurting. Its making me hot
Okay, I give up, she threw her hands in the air with a small shudder
listening to the roaring, rumbling sound of his laughter surrounding her.
Got ya!
Oh you suck, she tossed one of the small toss pillows on the couch
at him before shaking her head and wondering why it was she put up with all
of his teasing. Still it was nice to have someone in her life that was there
to help watch her and Zanes back. Jason was nice, but the extra sense
of family that Don had provided her and Zane was with was something that she
would always treasure. Meeting him and coming to Coral Valley was proving
to be one of the best things that ever happened to her.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Oh God, this is awful, Ben started to cough at the smell of the
sewers as him and Alexa slowly moved through the disgusting water to try and
find a way to somehow get out of all this mess. Lifting his foot up he looked
to see some goop fall from his shoes as he gulped down and tried plugging
his nose harder. Why couldnt you just pick the lock upstairs?
It would have worked so much better. I think Im going to throw up.
You think this is any better for me than it is you?" Alexa hissed
turning around, her voice distorted by how tight she was plugging her nose.
Feeling a rush of breath get caught in her lungs she unplugged her nose for
a moment, the smells from the sewers torturing her nostrils as she felt a
huge lump growing in the back of her throat. The smell swirled through her
throat, placing an unsettling taste in the pit of her stomach as she felt
it rising up her throat. Starting to gag she covered her mouth in the nick
of time to save herself from throwing up all over Ben who took a step back
sensing that she might throw up. Okay, we need to get out of here. As
much as this is effecting you, I think Im going to hurl.
Ive already ruined my pants and my shoes, I dont need you
tossing your lunch all over my shirt as well, Ben muttered seeing her
eyebrows tense together before he saw her move forward and shove her hands
into the center of his chest. Gasping out he still kept a hold of his nose,
feeling his feet slipping out underneath him in the mucky water and heard
her call out his name before he felt the splashing of the water underneath
him. Groaning out he felt the mucky water sliding down the back of his neck,
down his shirt and over his body. So much for the shirt.
Im so sorry, I never meant to do that, she tried not laughing
to the best of her ability seeing him stand up from where he was sitting in
the disgusting water before laughing out making somewhat of a snort with her
nose closed. Wow, I think were both going to need to clean up
soon. That is if we get out of here.
Were going to get out of here because there is no way I can live
with something trailing down my back and toward my ass because Im disgusted
as much as it is already, Ben moved in front of her looking around the
general area before him. This was disgusting and the less time he would have
to spend in here the happier he would be. He didnt even care if it took
them miles away from where they were, he just wanted to get the hell out of
there. He couldnt live with the smell and if he was in there more than
a few minutes longer, he might as well be a dead man because he was going
to choke himself with his own puke. There would be no way he would be stuck
down there for an extensive amount of time. There has to be some way
out of here, like a way to get back to the top.
Like a ladder, on thats on a side of wall where two sewers meet,
Alexa moved forward looking up seeing Ben pacing back and forth to try and
find something as she moved up on the side of the sewer unplugging her nose
for a second. With a lid that has holes with light shining through?"
Yeah, something like that, he moved down the sewer looking around
the corner to try and see some kind of ladder as he looked around and threw
his hands up in the air feeling the mucky water settling in over the top of
his belt around his waist making him groan out in disgust. I have no
idea where to find one.
I do, she nodded seeing the way he looked over at her, his hands
resting on his hips as he turned on his feet getting aggravated with the way
things were going. Pointing above her she could see the look on Bens
face knowing that he was ticked off that he missed it and she caught it right
away. You want to do the honors of going up first or shall I?"
How about you let me because your luck of jumping into things is just
terrible, Ben suggested seeing her move out of the way so he could make
his way up the ladder grabbing a hold of the bars of the ladder leading him
up slowly. Once at the top he reached his hand up and pushed at the heavy
lid before letting out a tight groan. Pushing it aside he looked out for a
moment seeing some light blocking his eyes and cussed out at the sight around
him. Shit.
What? Whats wrong?" she quickly moved up next to him to look
around seeing that they were in the same exact building but just seemed to
be stuck in a different area now. All this damn walking in the sewers
for nothing? Damn it.
There has to be some way out here, Ben stepped up and out of the
tunnel that led them up and pulled his body up for a moment. Blocking his
eyes from the bright light he looked around and moved over toward the door
in the corner opening it up slowly and let out a long cuss. Youll
never believe whats in the room next to us. We must have gone around
in circles at least two times before noting the ladder.
Where are we?" she moved in next to him seeing the room that they
were originally locked in and cussing out she turned to slam her palm into
the center of the wall making a loud noise as if something was falling in
the other room. All that for nothing?"
Maybe not nothing, Ben propped the door open seeing what had fallen
with Alexas hit as Ben smiled and motioned her in closer. Good
thinking Lexie, I think you may have just found us a way out.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So tell me, Shane began sliding into his side of the booth after
hed finished taking the bill up to the cash register once theyd
completed their meal with one another, now that weve made it through
breakfast, does this mean youll consider that jog around the lake with
me?
Given my last experience with running around you, I really dont
think its safe, she teased with a nervousness laced behind her
attempt at joking. Youre dangerous Shane Slater.
You dont know the half of it, Shane leaned in closer to
her, his eyes tempting her to keep up this game of flirting hed initiated
between them, but if youd like to, Im sure I can let you
in on my deep, dark secrets.
Tempting, but considering that you wont even tell me what you
do for a living, I dont believe that to be true, Diane wrinkled
her nose at the thought. You arent very open about things already
and I would be a fool to think you would simply extend an invitation out to
me after this game youve been playing all morning.
Im only keeping the mystery alive as it makes things all the more
interesting, Shane shrugged his shoulders. Leaning back in his seat
once again, he spread his arms out over the back of the booth. In fact,
Diane, why dont you tell me what you would like me to be and youll
see just how accommodating I can be?
Her eyes widened at the notion. She brought her hand up over to the side of
her face before attempting to cover. Excuse me?
Career wise, Shane fought to repress the chortle of laughter that
bubbled up in the back of his throat at the expression on her face. Youre
the one who seems to believe that I have all of these delicious options surrounding
the part of my life Im not sharing with you, so why not try to figure
out the mystery since you seem rather fond of them?
Im more of a comedy gal myself, Diane explained with a wrinkled
expression. She reached for her half empty glass of water and took a long
sip. Carefully setting the glass down once again, she met his eyes in a bold
attempt to prevent him from seeing her interest and discomfort at being near
him.
Somehow I seriously doubt that, Shane laughed lightly as his gaze
swept over her appreciatively. He watched a lump form in her throat as she
reached for her water once again.
Hey, I watched cartoons with you. Its possible that Im into
humor, Diane tossed back at him with a wave of her hand. I like
to laugh.
Which explains your relationship with Ben, Shane muttered under
his breath with a groan.
What? Diane blinked back at him. What did you say?
I said it explains your
never mind, Shane shook his head
in refusal to continue.
I never told you his name was Ben, Diane frowned back at him.
I said I was involved, but I never said that
Yes you did, Shane quickly covered wondering if hed slipped
up about his position. While hed thought that Diane had mentioned Bens
name before, now he found himself struggling for a recollection. Nothing came
to mind in that moment and at the same time he hoped to find a way to recover
if hed been wrong.
No, I dont think I did, Diane shook her head firmly. I
mean I would have thought that I wouldve said his name, but
Diane, if you didnt say his name, then how would I know it?
Shane challenged wiggling his brow at her suggestively. I mean its
only fair that I know the name of my latest competition.
There is no competition, Diane huffed in response, Im
a very happily taken woman.
Taken, Shane repeated with a dry laugh, as in he clubbed
you over the head and dragged you back to his cave to ravish you?
Not even close, she curled her lip in a pout. Bens
not like that at all. Not even remotely close to being that kind of guy at
all.
Hmm, well it seems to me that hes someone who doesnt know
a good thing when he has it because nothing would keep me away from you if
you were mine, Shane reached for her hand once again. He felt her resistance,
but as his index finger pressed in against the center of her palm, he felt
her shiver as well.
Shane stop, she pleaded lowering her voice as a crimson color
spilled over her features.
With the flirting or the honesty? he arched a curious brow as
her hand still remained in his.
Both, she whispered tightly as her eyes shifted around the small
café, You cant say things like that to me considering that
Youre taken even though the man you claim loves you so very much
is nowhere to be found, Shane challenged feeling her shiver once more
before she tore her hand away from his.
Look Shane. I like you and Ive really enjoyed our friendship thus
far, so lets not do anything to spoil that, she pleaded batting
her eyelashes at him. Its been a long time since Ive had
a real friend in my life and I dont want to ruin that.
Somehow I seriously doubt that one Diane. A woman like yourself undoubtedly
has an entourage Im certain, he teased with a small wink watching
her shift on the seat across from him.
I wish, she let out an ironic laugh, but truth be told I
dont really have a lot of people in my life that I can really trust.
I mean my best friend in the world, Jade, well she died not that long ago
and after she left the world things just havent been the same. I wish
I could say that they were easy in terms of friendship, but Jade was the one
person in the world I trusted more than anything. She was like a sister to
me and the only true friend Ive ever known.
Im sorry, his voice softened as his eyes swept over her
with a sympathetic stare, I had no idea that
Im not looking for sympathy, Diane forced a small smile,
Im just telling you that I rather enjoy your company and I want
for us to be able to continue spending time with one another like this.
Fair enough, Shane nodded accordingly, Ill try to
keep the flirting down to a minimum then.
And Ill try not to be so hard on you when you cant help
yourself, she offered up with a small smile, In fact, what do
you say we shake on it?
I think we can do that, Shane reached across the table to accept
her hand once again, but this time in a far more chaste fashion.
Tell me something friend, Diane decided after they parted hands,
what are you doing later?
Other than spending time in my apartment bored out of my mind, not much,
Shane divulged catching the expression on her features. Why?
Well, Ben and I were sort of invited to this party thing thats
going on and, well Im still supposed to go, but with Ben out of town
she began to fidget on her seat uneasily.
You figured why risk the humiliation of attending by yourself when you
had access to a friend right here with you, Shane pointed to his chest
and smiled.
Something like that, she paused as her brow wrinkled, Unless
you think thats not really what friends would do.
Help someone out when they needed assistance? he tossed back at
her with a wide smirk, Diane, I think my escorting you tonight is well
within the limitations of our newfound friendship.
Oh good, she let out a breath of relief because I was really beginning
to think I would have to tag along with Dean and Deidra and thats the
last thing that I would want to do considering how disgustingly in love they
are and
And what? Shane questioned seeing her fall to silence as her face
grew red again.
Theyre here. Act natural, she whispered as Shane looked
up to see two people approaching them.
So here you are, Deidra greeted Diane with a seriousness in her
tone. Tell me something are you hiding out because you destroyed my
kitchen the other day or simply because youre afraid I might ask you
to clean up the mess?
It wasnt that bad, Diane curled her lip in protest, and
I was going to get back to taking care of it once I finished with my errands
for the day.
Isnt that what you said last night? Deidra folded her arms
in front of her chest impatiently.
I was injured Deidra, Diane whined pointing to the small cut on
her forehead. Cut me some slack here.
I can attest to the fact that she was out of commission yesterday after
the fall she took at the gym, Shane piped in as Deidras dark eyes
settled in on her sisters companion for the first time since her arrival.
Shane could feel Deidra sizing him up with one look, but he was prepared for
the scrutiny. Hello, Im
Shane, Deidra finished with a knowing expression.
How did you
? Shanes eyes widened.
Diane mentioned you moved into my building, Deidra explained with
a small smile, and then she said something about the accent and
You pieced it together, Shanes grin widened as he glanced
over at Diane briefly, So Dianes been gossiping about me?
I wouldnt call it gossiping, Diane offered up in her own
defense now that her face was growing more crimson by the moment. In
fact
Dean, hey I didnt see you there.
Hi Diane, Dean waved down at her, How are you?
Just on the way out since weve finished up here a little while
ago, Diane scooted out of the seat and stood up in front of Dean, but
you and Deidra can take our seats if you like. You can just get someone over
here to wipe the table, which shouldnt take long and then
We can find our own seats Diane, Deidra glanced over at Shane
once again, although you dont have to rush on our account.
Well actually, Shane started with a smile.
We arent rushing, Diane interrupted suddenly determined
to get out of the café before having to continue speaking with Deidra,
but for what its worth its been great seeing you two.
Of course and its been nice meeting you Shane, Deidras
eyes breezed on over to Dianes companion.
The pleasure is all mine, Shane took Deidras hand in his
and offered up a small kiss upon her palm before he looked to Dean. Dean,
its nice to meet you as well.
Likewise, Dean nodded watching Diane practically tear Shane out
of the restaurant before Dean and Deidra could get better acquainted with
him.
Tell me you didnt think that was strange, Deidra frowned
seeing the front door to the café close upon her sisters exit.
That was certainly on the strange meter, Dean confessed with a
nod, Although Dianes friend seemed friendly.
Perhaps too friendly, Deidra mouthed thinking about her sisters
attraction to trouble.
He seems like a nice guy, Dean shrugged his shoulders before pausing,
Although I couldve sworn Ive seen him before.
You know him? Deidra glanced over her shoulder at her boyfriend.
Im not positive, but Im pretty good at remembering faces,
Dean thought it over for a long moment, Although if he lives in your
building that might have been it.
Perhaps, Deidra replied as Dean lead them to a corner booth in
the back. While Deidra wanted to focus on the meal ahead of her, she found
herself remembering Dianes predisposition to trouble. Deidra just hoped
for Dianes sake that the guilty expression Diane wore on her way out
the door wasnt a sign of something horrible around the corner for Diane!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
You are just not my type is all Nate. We would never work out doing
this together and there is no way that we would be able to work together.
We hardly know each other and the only thing I know about you is the stuff
that I learned in the mental hospital. That says enough right there,
Cori huffed moving over toward her door to leave only to see him move forward
and step in front of the door so she couldnt leave. Feeling her anger
building up inside of her she reached out to strike him in the center of the
chest seeing him cringe before rubbing at his chest where she hit him. I
dont know why you think you being the father of this baby would help
any.
Because Im a nice guy. Im funny and I really like you as
a friend Cori. I swear to God, we dont have to be more, but we can really
help each other. I know you dont know much about me, but honestly if
you think about it--who was there when you needed someone the most? I think
its obvious that Ive been there for you when youve needed
me, Nate reached out to gently squeeze her shoulder in his hand in a
friendly manner raising his index finger to gently nudge at her chin seeing
her crack a smile. Honestly sweetheart, I really think that if you were
able to count on me to come see you the other night, how come you cant
count on me to help you raise your baby? I can do It, I just need a chance.
A chance for you to say yes.
Nate, this is just something hard that we are going to have to pull
off if we do this, she felt his hand caressing her bare arm softly,
his green eyes searching hers. For a moment, with having him before her she
thought about the possibilities of having Nate in her life and what it would
be like. There were so many chances at a future she could have with him and
there were so many reasons to turn him down. I know we can talk and
be friends, but how do you know we can work together and do something like
this? Im not ready to be a mother and you sure as hell act like youre
a child yourself.
Believe it or not I really love kids. Like I dont know what I
would do without Matty, Nate explained seeing the way she stared out
at him as he fought for words to say knowing that he was all choked up and
was trying to come up with something to say to her as he threw his hands up
in the air. We can tell them that for me it was love at first sight.
If you want you can tell them that you were drunk if you dont care about
me like that, but I just think a kid could be a really good thing in your
life. Having a helping hand like myself could never hurt. I know you can trust
me, you have before. Why cant you trust me with your child? Our child?"
Because
, Cori went to say something more about how the child
belonged to Diego and how no one would be able to believe them if the child
came out looking like the father. Not once had she been with Nate and after
a while it would become evident of that. When she was going to say something
more she was interrupted by the sound of a door opening and she was met by
the eyes of her niece staring out at her. Stacy hey, how are you?"
I was having a normal crappy day until I came walking down the hallway
for something and just heard the good news, Stacy declared seeing Coris
eyebrows tightening together as she looked over at Nate who pushed back his
hair again. Moving forward she wrapped her arms around Cori who in return
cautiously hugged her back before speaking up again. I cant believe
the two of you are having a baby. Im so excited for you.
Why thank you Stacy, were so excited to be having one together,
Nate answered for Cori before she could say anything more as he moved in closer
to her wrapping his arm around her shoulders, pulling her in closer to him
before pressing a gentle kiss against her temple. It was so unexpected,
but were excited.
Oh yeah, I would be too. You two make such a cute couple, you are going
to have such a beautiful baby, Stacy assured him knowing that the news
she heard was great for her aunt with all the stress she had been going through
and knew that Nate was a perfect guy for her. This is such great news.
Whats so great?" Lindsay muttered after coming to find her
friend when she had been gone for a couple of minutes. Walking into the room,
a smile pressed in over her features seeing the way the smile seemed to swallow
up his face in a way. His dimples showing clearly as she let out a small laugh.
I dont think Ive ever seen you this happy Nathan.
Well he has a reason to be happy, did you hear about the good news?"
Stacy looked to Lindsay seeing her shake her head before looking to Nate again
when she saw Cori look up at him nervously. Cori is pregnant--her and
Nate are going to be having a child together.
Oh hey, thats great news, Lindsay moved forward toward Nate
knowing that the last few times other than when he was with Matt, he never
seemed to be this happy and she was so glad for him. Pulling him in close
for a hug once he let go of Cori she hugged him tightly before patting him
on the back. Don would love to hear the news. Hed be so happy
for you as well. Congratulations.
Thank you, Cori gulped down feeling Lindsay hug her and she glared
out at Nate seeing his green eyes staring into hers as he arched his eyebrows
up. Shrugging his shoulders she knew he was already on the way to getting
people to believe their story and she didnt even know if she was ready
for this. I appreciate it.
Hey, I think its wonderful, Lindsay explained stepping in
next to Stacy as they stood by the door and she thought about the last few
times she had hung out with Nate in the past. I just want him happy
and I can see that when hes with you, you make him entirely happy. Im
so glad for the both of you, this is such fantastic news that Im sure
so many people will want to hear this.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Don stop and be serious, Deana swatted at him turning around
to stick her tongue out at him only to be met by the rest of his frozen fruit
bar heading right straight into her mouth. She glared at him before reaching
out to take the stick and hold it before finishing off his frozen treat. Shaking
her head at him once shed finished she laughed lightly, You are
such a dork. I mean really I dont know why I bother with you.
Because you love me admit it, he smiled over at her before tossing
the paper from the iced treat in the trash. Im just one of the
best guys you know.
Which isnt saying much considering, she teased back with
a hearty laugh watching him moving in closer to her. She shook her head before
holding out the stick that the fruit bar had been on. Okay, I think
I overdid it. I shouldnt have ate that.
Why not? Don questioned with a small laugh, You seemed like
you wanted some of it.
I did, but then I remembered I had cereal with Zane this morning and
then on the way over he had his candy in the car still and, Deana shook
her head and frowned, I think I overdid it.
Thats okay, Don put his hand on her shoulder gently, If
you get sick later you can just call me up and Ill watch Zane for the
night. He can stay with Matty for a while until you feel better.
If I get sick tonight Ill be the one coming over to your place
so that I can get sick all over you, Deana teased with a wrinkle of
her nose shaking her head at him.
In that case, how about we just get you to throw up now so that you
feel better later, Don teased moving in closer to her and collecting
her in his arms. He started to tickle at her sides causing her to shake her
head and swat at him.
Don knock it off, she frowned glaring up at him with her dark
eyes. Don I mean it.
I know and Im sorry, he stopped tickling her long enough
to smile down at her, Deana Im just playing.
I know and I have a secret to tell you, she tipped up on her toes
her brown eyes meeting his worried gaze. Im not really feeling
sick at all. Im just looking to knock you on your butt.
Wait, what? Don replied feeling her shove her hand into his chest
and send him flying back onto the couch theyd been seated on earlier.
It took him a split second to realize what she was doing before he reached
out to her catching her hand with his and pulling her down over him. They
both fell onto the couch and he burst out with laughter. Who has the
upper hand now Deana?
Still me, she teased tickling at his sides again when the door
to the room opened and Zack walked in glaring at the both of them. He stopped
where he stood for a long moment and eyed them both with obvious scrutiny.
Get a room, he finally grumbled watching Don and Deana scurry
to sit up on the couch again. He walked over to the coffee machine before
reaching for the pot.
We had a room before you walked into it, Don quipped in response
rolling his eyes at Zacks comment.
Last time I checked you still had a wife too Leveski. Im sure
she wouldnt appreciate you getting it on at work with one of the nurses
when youre getting paid to do your job.
Im not getting it on with anyone, Don blurted out quickly
catching the look Zack tossed back at him, other than my wife. Besides,
last time I checked you were the one who had your wife leave you.
You know what Don, Zack started opening his mouth to say something
more, but thought twice of it and opted for a wide smirk instead. Keep
insulting me now, but when it comes time for you to be taking orders from
me, well see who is laughing then.
Yeah me because its never going to happen, Don shot back
at Zack watching his enemys retreat before turning to Deana and frowning,
I hate that man.
With good reason Im sure, she noted with a frown of her
own, and now you see why the man needed to be knocked down a peg or
two.
I can take care of this, Don warned her with a sudden seriousness
reaching out to touch the side of her face gently, You just steer clear
of the trouble. The last thing I want is him hurting you.
Don I can hold my own and then some, she curled her lip in a pout
at him.
And Im well aware of that, but right now youll be best served
by letting me do what I do best in proving Im the better man,
Don explained with a wide grin, Besides Grady and Jason would both kill
you if they knew how you were trying to instigate that man.
I dont answer to my boyfriend or my brother, she folded
her arms in front of her chest ready to say something more to him when Deana
entered the room.
Okay Ill bite, which one of you do I have to applaud for putting
that somber expression on Zacks face? Ria questioned curiously,
I would have to say that was the first time ever that hes ever
walked by me without being rude and arrogant.
Dont get too excited. Im sure it wont last,
Don noted with a frown.
Hes always going to be miserable. Deana piped in as well.
Well that doesnt surprise me at all, though its going around
lately, Ria explained with a heavy sigh, Ive already had
one hell of a morning.
Why is that? Don questioned curiously.
Angelas missing, Ria informed Don point blank.
What? he replied his blue eyes widening.
We were all at the mansion earlier and we heard this noise, Ria
explained thinking about the chain of earlier events. Brant and Kevin
went outside and someone destroyed Kevins car. They then found that
Angela wasnt at the estate. She didnt leave a note or anything,
so they werent sure what happened. They went over to see Cameron thinking
he might be behind what happened, but
But what? Did they find her? Don questioned worriedly thinking
about his best friend. Brant must be going out of his mind right now
if he cant find her.
Both Kevin and Brant are upset, Ria explained with a frown. I
mean its possible that she just took off and ran an errand or something,
but with what happened to Kevins car
That doesnt sound right at all, Don looked between Deana
and Ria, I suppose I can go over and see Brant. Im almost finished
here, so maybe I can help.
Im sure he would appreciate that, Deana added thinking about
Don and Brants relationship.
Hopefully theyve found her. I couldnt stay around since
I had a shift, Ria continued to explain.
Im sure they will, Don nodded hopefully, but if not
Ill do what I can to aid in the search. Of course while Im gone
you two better stay out of trouble with Zack. Hes not the kind of person
to screw with.
Don we already know that, Deana rolled her eyes in response. Trust
me I wouldnt screw with him if he was the last man on the planet.
That makes two of us, Ria agreed with her, Though if you
go see Brant and Kevin, tell Kevin to call me Don.
Will do, Don nodded saying his goodbyes before leaving the room.
So tell me Ria, do you really think someone couldve taken Angela
or that this is nothing? Deana questioned noticing the expression on
Rias face.
I honestly dont know, Ria sighed in response, but
if they dont find her, then there is no telling what will happen to
Brant or Kevin for that matter. I just hope it doesnt turn to that.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Uncle Rex? No way, Wendy moved forward to give him a friendly
hug feeling his arms wrap around her tightly as she heard his thick accented
laugh in her ears. Pressing her hand in over the center of his chest, she
looked up at the taller man before her letting out a small laugh. I
think the last time I saw you, you had long dark hair. What happened to you.
Look at this
looking rich and famous.
He is rich and famous, Ken explained seeing the way that Rex tipped
his hat once Wendy let go of him in the hug and Ken wrapped his arm around
her shoulders again. Seeing Wendys dark eyes look up towards him he
nodded and looked to his uncle seeing him fix his jacket. Owns his own
baseball team and made millions down south owning what a couple of sports
teams? Got into all that oil business.
Well, I had to make a name for myself somehow, Rex explained with
a wide smile cracking another laugh as he turned to Wendy again and reached
out for her hand holding it up in the air as he looked her over. Shaking his
head slowly he pulled off his hat pushing back his hair and shrugged his shoulders.
Why look at you miss Forbes. The last time I saw you, you were so young.
Look at what youve grown into. Such a beautiful woman.
Why thank you, you dont look too bad yourself, Wendy smirked
looking over the extremely tall man before her. It had been so long since
she had seen him last and she could always remember it was his height that
impressed her the most. His hair is what totally blew her away and the way
his face looked, it was almost unrealistic to believe that this was him. It
was a better looking version of the man she knew from the past that had the
same laugh and voice that she always knew. Isnt this a surprise
running into your uncle? Im glad we did though because I never thought
I would see you again.
He always shows up somehow, Ken explained with a small warning
hiss trying to get Rex to leave knowing that his uncle was the last person
he wanted to have around right now. In so many ways Rex reminded him of his
brother and he just hated it and wanted him to leave. I do have to wonder
how you showed in Paris though.
That is a great question Kenneth, Rexs thick accent answered
as he wrapped his arm around Kens shoulders leading him out of the market
and toward the street. Pulling his hat off with his free hand he placed it
in over his chest before clearing his throat uneasily. How about I take
the two of you to a nice little restaurant and we can all have a chat over
it.
Thats a great offer, but I think were going to have to decline,
Ken grabbed his uncles arm grabbing it and pulling it away from his
shoulders before shrugging. Letting out a deep sigh he looked around and brushed
off his shoulder knowing that was the last thing he wanted to be doing right
now. We have a lot of things were doing and I just dont
think we can fit it in.
Kenny? What are you talking about? Of course we can fit a quick eat
in with your uncle, Wendy moved around him and saw Rex smile widely
as she moved in closer to him feeling him wrap his arm around her shoulders.
So what do you have in mind Rex Ashford?"
Well, I have the perfect diner we can go to and
, Rex stopped
noticing that Ken wasnt following them and he looked over his shoulder
at his nephew seeing his dark eyes staring out at him. Well dont
just stand there in the middle of the road. Havent you seen the drivers
out here? They are all backwards and you dont need to get hit by the
French. You know theyre crazy and love everyones pain but their
own. You will become the next version of French Pacman so come on kiddo.
Rolling his eyes he watched his girlfriend walk away with what he viewed to
be his redneck uncle that was no good in the first place, but moving forward
he knew that he would lose them if he didnt keep up. So far, what was
supposed to be a great trip was really starting to suck.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I still dont trust him Kevin, Brant sighed sinking back
further into the seat of his car now that Kevin had suggested that they drive
back to the Ashford Estate in the event Angela had returned. I dont
think for a second that Cameron is telling the truth. Im guessing he
knows full well where she is.
Im not so sure Brant, Kevin sighed in response turning his
attention to the world passing by the windows while they drove down the road.
He ran his fingers through his dark hair before looking over at Brant again.
He seemed concerned about her. Now while Cameron doesnt do concerned
very well, I could see that there was something behind his eyes.
The man is a lunatic and a liar. Hes done everything he could
to get Angela away from me and I wouldnt doubt that this is another
stunt of his. I mean think about what he did to us the last time, Brant
sighed keeping his attention on the road while his thoughts lingered to Angela.
He skewed the truth to fit it to his convenience, Kevin noted
with a tiny shudder, I dont refute that, yet when I think about
how important she is to him.
Its his hatred for me that put her in this position in the first
place. He came to town determined to bury my family and now hes taking
away the very thing in my life that means the most to me, Brants
knuckles tightened around the steering wheel.
Cameron felt he was doing what was right by his sister however misguided
it was, Kevin paused glancing over at Brant again, although I
can see how he might feel compelled to believe there was a threat with you
and Angela if Cyrus was in fact taken out by your father.
My father is a monster Kevin. I wont even try to pretend that
he isnt. When he did all of those horrible things years ago, I swore
to myself that I would never, ever be like him, Brant explained honestly
thinking about his fathers madness. He destroyed everything he
touched and in turn cost anyone who loved him everything. He was selfish and
ruthless and most of all compelled to destroy any opposition that got in his
way. I couldnt live like that. I would never live like that.
I know, Kevin nodded looking away again, but Cameron has
been fueled by rage and anger for so very long. He felt justified in his quest.
He wasnt justified in going after me. I never met Cyrus Stone
let alone murdered him, Brant blurted out with a strained tone. Ill
admit I had seen things I would just as soon forget, but I never, ever did
anything even remotely close to what he insinuated. Just like Im sure
you didnt do those things the way that Cameron tried to make Angela
believe you did.
You and I both know that I killed her husband. I havent lied about
that to you Brant, Kevin paused contemplating his words. The man
was a monster and he was going to kill her. He was consumed with his own greed
and thirst for power. He never loved her--just the promise of what it was
that he could get out of the union.
Then you did the right thing, Brant offered up looking over at
Kevin briefly. If I was in your shoes at the time I wouldnt have
done things differently.
I cant say what I wouldve done had I had any time to consider
what was happening. I did what my instincts told me to do and it was unfortunate,
but it was what needed to be done, Kevin answered in a hollow, even
tone. I did what was necessary to protect her.
You loved her even then after she married someone else, Brant
realized a long thought pouring over him, Just like you love her now,
dont you?
Ill always love her Brant, Kevin admitted with a raw honesty
in his tone, but our lives werent meant to cross paths in the
way that I once believed. She held my heart for a very long time, but she
belongs with you. I belong with Ria.
Ria loves you a lot, Brant couldnt help but toss back at
him. She was going crazy at the thought of not being around you. This
whole deception has been killing her.
Its been killing all of us, Kevin noted with a sigh, I
thought that we were close to an end of it.
So did I, Brant sighed remembering the last time he and Angela
had been alone with one another, but now this.
Were going to find her Brant, Kevin decided firmly refusing
to accept any other alternative to the situation.
I hope youre right, but I have to tell you Kevin the last time
someone went missing in this town, things didnt turn out as good as
they should have, Brant couldnt help but bring up the past.
Youre talking about Jade, arent you, Kevin frowned
thinking about his departed cousin. She was ripped from this world far
before her time.
She was a good person who had a hard life, Brant recounted flashing
back to the first time hed ever seen her. I wish I couldve
spared her that.
What happened to her wasnt your fault. You werent one of
the monsters who hurt her, Kevin pointed out firmly his jaw tightening
at the thought of how his cousin had suffered.
No, but her life was scarred by the hands of my father just as Angelas
has been, Brant blurted out with an uneasiness in his tone, and
if you believe in Camerons theory of guilt by association than it would
prove that I am no better than he was.
Youre a lot better than your father Brant. Cameron knows that
as well in the back of his mind, but it terrifies him. You terrify him simply
because Angela loves you and he cannot control that. There are no rules with
her and hes foolishly been lead to believe he could assimilate her to
the master plan he has for their family, Kevin shook his head and sighed,
but itll never happen. Shes too stubborn to let something
like that rule her life.
Which is another reason why Cameron may want to make her disappear--so
that he has plenty of time to turn her to his thinking all over again,
Brant mouthed worriedly his thoughts lingering to Angela.
If Cameron is behind whats happened to her, he wont be able
to hide it much longer. There isnt a doubt in my mind about that. Still
if someone else has taken her, theyll find themselves wishing like hell
that they had just left her alone because things will get very ugly for them
very fast, Kevin vowed ready to do what was necessary to take out the
person that had found a way to make Angela disappear. He just hoped for their
sake and his that she soon reappeared unscathed or else heads would roll.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
How could this happen? Douglas questioned watching Sarah sink
down on the bed after theyd both shuffled to get dressed to ease the
discomfort of the situation at hand. Once shed emerged from the bathroom
completely clothed hed found himself trying to piece together the night
that had brought them to the here and now. Turning to face her, he found her
looking up at him with the same perplexed expression.
I honestly dont know, Sarah revealed with a shakiness in
her tone. She attempted to pull at the wedding band one more time before finally
giving up. Tipping her head up to the side, she felt a lump forming in the
back of her throat. I dont even know where we are.
Were at the hotel that was across the street from the bar,
he explained catching the surprise behind her eyes as it was clear she wondered
how hed known that simple fact. He pointed to the window to explain
to her before speaking up again, I looked around while you were getting
dressed.
Oh, Sarah paused her gaze dropping down to the floor to where
the discarded condom wrappers still remained. Still, how did we get
over here when
?
I dont know, Douglas answered honestly thinking about how
hed stopped for a drink in the hopes of clearing his head after the
situation that hed had to deal with now that his latest picture was
under intense scrutiny of the FBI. While hed poured a small fortune
into the film, it was on hold now that his association with Brooke Morrison
was under heavy speculation. Hed tried to explain that things werent
as it seemed, but the impossible nitwit from the FBI wasnt interested
in hearing the truth in the situation. Hed been at his wits end
and vowed to find a way to ignore the reality of the money that was being
held up by getting himself a good drink.
What he hadnt expected was encountering Sarah after hed already
had one too many at the bar. Hed been there for a couple of hours before
hed spotted her walk in. At least he thought hed spotted her walk
in before hed joined her. Now of course the details were hazy. He glanced
over at her again straining to remember what had lead him from the bar to
the bed to being with her and this damned gold ring on his finger.
I just
I mean I dont believe this, Sarah blurted out
fumbling with her fingers in her lap. She looked down to the front of her
shirt remembering that there were a few buttons absent and she frowned. I
guess we got a little crazy, didnt we?
Apparently so, Douglas noted looking down to the tears that covered
the front of his shirt. Hed half considered not bothering with wearing
it, but the idea of being naked with Sarah was less than pleasing for the
moment. He cleared his throat uneasily realizing that she was looking for
the discarded buttons on her shirt. They are over by the door. I think
some of them might be in the hallway too.
Oh, Sarah gulped again wondering just what in the world she had
done last night. She looked to the headboard seeing the sheet fragments that
were still hanging from it and she felt a shiver carry over her. Immediately
she sprung up off of the bed and moved over towards the opposite side of the
room. Well I um
Yeah, Douglas nodded rubbing his palms together before turning
around to see the small table that was over by the window now lay over the
floor in fragmented pieces. He bit down on his lip wondering what in the world
wouldve caused that kind of destruction, but once he spotted the condom
wrapper intermingled with the ruins of the table, he pretty much figured out
what his answer was. A shudder carried over him when he swiftly forced himself
to look away opting to ignore the obvious truth that stared him right in the
face.
So how are we going to fix this? Sarah questioned stating the
question that was undoubtedly on the both of their minds since theyd
awakened with one another. She saw the blank expression on his face and raised
her hand to be more specific. She tapped on the finger the ring was on and
took in a breath. We cant keep things this way.
No we most certainly cant. There we are in agreement, Douglas
decided feeling as if hed been inspired by the first bright idea hed
had since hed awakened beside Sarah in bed.
He started to reach into his jacket pocket to withdraw his cell phone, but
instead he found himself met by the black tattered material of her panties
that mustve been stuffed inside last night. He held them up for a moment
seeing their fragmented remains in his palm when suddenly it registered what
it was exactly that he was holding. He winced and let out a small yelp before
tossing them across the room. He rubbed his hand down the side of his jacket
hoping to wipe off any lingering remains of what couldve been on there.
Of course he knew full well nothing was on there, but considering the idea
of where they had been before hed pushed them into his pocket suddenly
had him hoping to find some hand sanitizer. He stepped forward ready to go
wash his hands when it occurred to him that more than his hands had touched
Sarah and undoubtedly had touched her in the very place that
Stop right there! he chastised himself refusing to go down that
road now that he was trying to be rational.
Stop what? Sarah blinked back at him. I didnt do anything.
No of course you didnt, Douglas waved dismissively realizing
that hed forgotten she was in the room with him. You just stay
right there and Ill just
Just what? she questioned with wide eyes feeling something sticky
on the side of her neck. She brought her hand up and pressed her fingers to
the small spot just below her ear to discover some kind of chocolate substance
on her skin. Shuddering at the thought of just what couldve happened
with the aforementioned chocolate, she fought to repress a low, disgusted
groan. You know we really need to fix this situation.
I couldnt agree more and Im just going to call some of my
people. They will fix this right away for us. Ill just tell them to
be discreet and
Douglas explained reaching for his pocket again
but stopping before he could discover anything else of Sarahs on him.
Instead he moved forward ready to use the hotel phone to complete the much
needed action.
Make sure that they are very discreet. This is the last thing that we
need anyone to find out about, she continued to ramble on thinking about
the ramifications of her doing something so completely and utterly stupid
after shed gone to see Diego. It was bad enough that she was going to
go over to Diegos and grovel to get him back, but then when hed
been gone it hadnt done anything to help her ego. Why shed accepted
a drink from Douglas she would never know, but one thing was for certain.
That drink would not ruin the rest of her life and she certainly would not
be married to him of all people. That was a fate that she wasnt even
crazy enough to keep around her.
Trust me I have the best people working for me and they will keep this
on the down low, Douglas explained lifting the phone off of the base
to find it slathered in some kind of whipped cream and chocolate. He paused
for a moment wondering why in the world the phone would be covered in such
delicacies when suddenly he had a faint flutter of a memory involving him
and Sarah and the strange contortions theyd worked their way into on
the nightstand the phone was on. Dropping it immediately he felt bile in the
back of his throat. He blinked a few times trying to will away the snippet
of the memory when he felt her touch his shoulder.
Doug, she spoke his name with great unease causing him to leap
at the contact of her fingers over his shoulder.
I dont think you should do that, Douglas explained trying
to still the racing in his chest now that shed opted to touch him.
I was just wondering if you were having problems with the phone and,
Sarah paused seeing what hed just discovered in front of him. She let
out a small whimper before stumbling back further into the room. Oh
God please tell me that we didnt
Id be lying if I did, Douglas answered honestly attempting
to banish the memory from his mind. He turned around to face her again and
sighed, I can just go home and call one of the offices and
Thats a great idea, Sarah nodded in agreement ready to push
the whole evening behind her. I can just go back to my place and
Her words were stopped by the sound of a phone ringing. The sound caused the
both of them to jump backwards nearly stumbling in the process. Sarah stood
frozen hearing the melody fill the air until Douglas nodded towards her.
I believe thats yours, Douglas pointed out in a small, shaky
tone.
Right, Sarah nodded searching through the room to find her phone.
She listened for a moment attempting to spot the location of it when she noticed
the trash can in front of her. Knowing full well what she would undoubtedly
find after all of the empty condom wrappers donned the floor, she wrinkled
her nose in disgust. She took a tentative step forward grabbing a tissue off
of the nightstand before dipping her fingers into the trash can to collect
her phone. She tried to bite back in the feeling that rippled over her while
she turned her eyes away from the trash can ignoring what would be in there
with her phone. Taking in a breath she brought the phone up to her ear and
sighed. She used the tissue to push the button to answer.
Hello, she mouthed into the phone uneasily.
Where the hell are you? Cameron snapped at her, his irritation
level rising with the moment. Ive been calling you for a while
now and you never answered. Where are you?
Im just
Sarah stammered trying to find the words to
say without giving herself away.
Just what? Do you have any idea what kind of day Im having? Things
are not going well and lo and behold I go looking for my fiancée and
where is she? Cameron continued to lash out at her. Do you have
any idea what kind of morning it has been?
Trust me Cameron. I know what kind of morning its been,
she glanced over at Douglas before turning away. Ive had one hell
of a morning myself.
Whatever. Sarah the point is that I need you here and I need you here
now. I dont care what youre doing or where you are because I expect
you to be here as soon as possible, Cameron snapped into the phone his
words coming out tight and irritated.
Of course, she nodded in response thinking about the situation
at hand, Cameron Ill be there as soon as I can.
See to it that its not too long, Cameron warned her sharply
hanging up the phone on her.
I will, she paused realizing that Douglas was still listening
to her. And I miss you too. Of course.
Finally hanging up the phone Sarah turned to face Douglas again. I have
to get going. Cameron needs me and Im sure that you can take care of
this situation and get back to me later, Sarah started moving to collect
the rest of her things from the ground. She began to pull everything together
knowing full well that Cameron did not sound happy about whatever was going
on. Then again she had a morning that she couldnt be thrilled with either
considering the company she was keeping.
Get back to you, Douglas replied his mood souring as he thought
about the conversation shed had with Cameron. He watched her moving
around the room ready to leap at Camerons command and a frown touched
over his lips.
Thats right, she nodded in agreement. Im just
going to go back to Camerons while you figure everything out and Im
sure that we can have this whole silly situation over with by the end of the
day.
Silly situation, Douglas repeated when a sudden thought occurred
to him. You know Sarah I dont know if thats such a good
idea with what were doing.
What? she questioned turning to look over at him with a frown.
What do you mean?
Well it will take some time to get into contact with my people and then
there is the whole matter of what happened last night, Douglas continued
to explain to her thinking about what was going on with him and Sarah. It
just seems to me that things would take on a different level for us now that
weve had this night together.
Different level? she repeated with a small frown thinking about
what theyd shared. Yes of course, but you can rest assured that
I wont tell anyone a thing about what happened with us. Its already
out of my mind and I can promise you that I wont ever breathe a word
to another living soul about what happened. It was a mistake that
Would undoubtedly cause you problems with Cameron, yes? Douglas
arched a curious brow thinking about what was going on now that hed
remembered Sarahs link to Cameron.
Well yes, but Cameron doesnt really need to know about this. I
mean the way I see it you and I can hardly recall what happened, so there
is no real reason why we should actually take things to the next level in
carrying this on any further than we already have. Cameron and I are engaged
so I really wouldnt want him to think that something like this could
happen when
Sarah rambled feeling a sudden nervousness at the
thought of anyone figuring out what had happened between them.
When youre my wife? Douglas mused with a newfound smirk
carrying over his features. Why Im sure Cameron would lose all
control knowing that you and I are together now.
Well were not officially together. I mean whatever did or didnt
happen last night is nothing. We just made one little bad judgment call in
drinking too much and
Sarah stammered trying to come up with some
kind of reasonable explanation that lead her to where she was in the here
and now.
Actually Sarah from where I stand I think these rings link us as something
more than just a case of drinking too much and the more I think about it,
the more I realize that its probably not so bad that were married
to one another. Hell, it might actually be fun to stay married, Douglas
decided after a moments contemplation.
You cant be serious, Sarah blinked back at him in astonishment
a horrified expression creeping in over her.
Why darling Im very serious. Our being married might prove to
be the best thing for all of us when everything is said and done, Douglas
mused with a wide grin ready to launch a whole new plan to drive Cameron crazy
all over again.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...