Episode 424
So remind me what we are doing here again, Trisha muttered following
Mindy up the driveway to Russell and Averys place while they were away
on this vacation. They were planning on going to a few stores, but Mindy wanted
to make sure she made a stop here first as Trisha sighed heavily. You
never really said what we were doing at their house for while they were gone.
Just said have to take care of some things. That is never very
helpful. Do they know you are going into their house while they arent
here?
You know what Im doing here, I told you the other day, Mindy
sighed heavily reaching for the key that was under the pot on their front
porch. Looking back at Trisha, she could see that she seemed to genuinely
be confused about already knowing what she was doing. They have a cat
and I take care of him when they are gone.
Oh
you told me that? Trisha muttered watching her friend
nod before sliding the key into the door and she sighed tossing her hands
up in the air. I dont know what I was doing then, but obviously
I wasnt paying attention.
Good to know Im not good enough to listen to, Mindy teased
moving aside allowing Trisha room to get through the doorway and to step into
the house before closing the door behind her. Its a good thing
to know.
Or I just dont remember. My memory is just
, Trisha
looked around the large house finding herself cutting off on her words as
she stood in awe of how big and nice it was. Blah.
Good to know, Mindy smirked snapping her fingers and whistling
a bit to see if Rusty would come for her. Clapping her hands together, she
saw Trisha starting to walk off in the other direction as Rusty came prancing
down the hallway. Come here Rusty, come here baby.
This is a really nice place, Trisha moved out of the kitchen to
see the cat on the edge of the couch tipping up on its paws to get pet
by Mindy. The sound of his purring could be heard from where she was at as
she smirked. Its a huge home for that little guy while his parents
are away.
True
lets go see if he has food and water, Mindy nodded
over toward the kitchen motioning Trisha to follow her so she didnt
get into any unnecessary trouble with the house that was obviously intriguing
her. Thanks for coming with me.
Yeah
its no, problem, she continued to look around
the kitchen hearing Mindy pouring some more food into the bowl for Rusty as
she turned to glance at Mindy again. You know, I am kind of surprised
you are still here right now. I really thought you would have gone with Jason
to that wedding when he asked you to go. I know I would rather go to a wedding
instead of being a kitty babysitter. Hes cute and all, but this is a
little lame.
A little lame? Mindy found her friends words a bit harsh
before shaking off the feeling of telling her off a bit. Shaking her head,
she thought to Jason asking her to go to the wedding and she shrugged. It
just kind of seemed awkward.
Explain, Trisha opened one of the cabinets to take a look at the
mugs inside pulling out one that was a Red Sox design and she shook her head
slowly before sighing and placing it back.
Explain? Why do I have to explain? Mindy moved into the living
room hearing Trisha following her behind while Rusty jumped up into her lap
after she sat down on the couch to get pet. It just felt a little awkward.
Like he wanted me to go as his date and hes gay.
Friends could go as dates you know
, Trisha reminded her
taking a seat in the corner of the room staring out at Mindy. Why would
it feel awkward? The guy is hot and he is gay. You have a hot date knowing
he wont try to grab ass at you. Though, I wouldnt mind if I was
you because he is a good looking guy.
He is also gay, she reminded Trisha knowing that something like
that didnt bother her friend when it came down to it in the long run.
I dont know. It just felt a little too fast. And I cant
leave the job of doing this for them. That would be wrong, wouldnt it?
How about this
I will let you believe what you want, okay?
Trisha spoke up in somewhat of a sarcastic tone and she caught the glance
that Mindy gave her before she threw her hands up in the air. Hey, Im
just saying! I dont really see a problem with you going. You know the
family, it should have been fine.
I guess it just didnt feel right, she continued to drag
her fingers through the soft fur of the cat laying in her lap. Sighing heavily,
she knew she loved spending time with Jason when she could, but there were
sometimes when things felt off. When things were too close and after knowing
that he was really gay, the things that she felt with him were wrong. She
wasnt ready to jump into feeling that kind of way with a gay guy again.
I just think its right for me to be here.
Well I guess I can see why, Trisha took another long look around
the house noticing the winding hallway leading toward the other rooms of the
house and she stood up. This house is gorgeous and its huge.
Dont go anywhere Trisha, I am just supposed to feed Rusty and
then leave, Mindy noticed her friend completely ignored her warnings
moving off down the hallway toward the bedrooms. Getting up slowly, she sighed
and heard a door open. Trisha, I told you to mind your own business.
I walk into someones home and I cant help it, Im interested
in their lives, Trisha moved over toward the photo of the dresser of
Russ and Avery and she smiled. I do have to admit I am rather glad I
am going to be working for someone as hot as him. It gives work a whole new
meaning. A viewing pleasure to make the day easier to get along with.
Hes married you know, Mindy pointed out reaching for the
picture and set it back down where it belonged. She caught the way Trisha
glared at her before she moved back to the next thing she clearly wanted to
look at. And you could also be pregnant you know. With taking that house
test and getting a positive, I thought things like this would have flamed
down.
Hey, everyone needs something good to look at once and a while,
Trisha went to open a drawer only to feel Mindy close it midway. Throwing
her hands up she moved toward the hallway feeling Mindy nudging her that way.
I have eyes and I know whats hot. Hence why I think you should
have gone with Jason.
Well I didnt and I cant go back and change that now,
Mindy sighed knowing that she felt that her answer to Jason was the right
one. It would have been nice to go to an island like that for such a great
event, but she really felt that not going with him was the right thing. And
as long as she thought it was the right thing, she really didnt care
what someone else though about it. So Im just going to enjoy the
time I have alone here.
Alone
not many girls look forward to something like that,
Trisha pointed out only to feel the soft vibrations of her phone inside of
her purse that hung at her side loosely. Gulping down, she motioned Mindy
to wait for a moment while pulling out her phone to see Chase was calling
her. Hey baby.
Mindy watched from the living room as Trisha walked off to talk to her boyfriend
in the kitchen and she found herself thinking about Jason. The way he had
been there for her had been great, just things were off and she didnt
know how to move on with them.
Jason would tell her one thing, but every time he was around she always felt
like he was feeling a different way. Their relationship had gotten confusing
and she just wasnt in the mood to approach it any further.
Looks like Im going to have to pull out on you, Trisha closed
her phone moving back into the room while watching Mindy take a seat on the
couch again. Chase is in need of some help, so Im going to go
help him with his crisis. Alright? Are you going to be okay?
Ill be just fine, I think Im going to just take Rusty back
to the apartment with me, Mindy thought aloud seeing Trisha seemed to
ignore her again as she moved toward the door. Have fun.
Always do, Trisha moved out of the house and Mindy found herself
thinking about her friend and her actions. She was so glad that she was nothing
like her. She could only imagine how crazy her life would be if she was! She
was happy with the way things were now and she wouldnt want it any other
way.
Being alone for some people was bad, but she didnt expect to have anyone
new in her life. She was happy and content with herself to know that she didnt
need a man in her life right now.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Still feeling Cori kissing him, Nate pressed his hands in over her hips knowing
that she was only using him for this, but as he felt her lips caressing in
over his he couldnt help feeling his emotions for her coming into play
for him.
For the longest time he wanted to be with Cori. Have her in his life somehow
and this wasnt exactly how he wanted it to be. At all. He wanted her
to fall in love with him, not use him. But in this case, he was hoping that
in her using him, she would fall in love with him with the time she was going
to spend with him.
Hearing the door click to a close, it was obvious that Jewel was gone by now
and as he felt her hand sliding up his side, he was soon met by the violent
smack that she pressed in over his face.
Turning with the hit, he let out a small groan hearing her drop back down
on the bed while he pressed his hand in over his cheek. The sharpness of her
hit caused a strong burning sensation in his skin as he hissed out.
What the hell was that? Nate blurt out watching Cori shrug and
reach for a magazine to start flipping through. You were the one that
started to kiss me.
Like I wanted to
she muttered not even bothering to look
at him as he tried to shake off the feeling of her venomous slap. He couldnt
believe that she had just hit him after what she had done to him to get back
at her sister. Stop complaining.
You have some serious issues, he informed her with a small nod
seeing the way she stared out at him after looking up from her magazine. Taking
in a deep breath, he watched her set the magazine down to watch him and he
shook his head slowly. I dont think I will ever begin to understand
you.
I dont want you to understand me, I just wanted you to leave me
alone, but now I am stuck with you, she explained watching the way he
stared out at her and she knew that he was angry with her. So I just
am going to do what I need, otherwise I want nothing to do with you.
Good to know, Nate shook his head slowly before breathing in heavily
thinking about the situation he made in his life to lie for her. How it would
effect his future and how much he was starting to regret it. Do you
realize what Ive done for you.
Not much really, Cori replied watching Nates jaw clench
in anger as he stared out at her and she could tell that he wanted to say
so much, but was trying to keep his mouth closed. Are we always going
to be like this? Acting like I owe you some kind of something because you
offered up to do what you did. I find it rather
disgusting if you think
you are going to change my mind about you. I still find you repulsive.
You know, Ive tried to be nice, Nate finally spoke up after
having her talk to him like that. But Im sick of this. Im
sick of you talking to me like this. I want to help you. Ive felt bad
for you and I happen to think Im the person that has been the nicest
to you. Yet you treat me like Im shit.
Your point is? she opened her magazine again flipping through
the pages not even paying attention to him. She could hear in his breathing
that he was upset, but didnt even pay attention to him. Listen,
you can leave now.
Gasping out, she felt him rip the magazine out of her fingers and she watched
him toss it on the floor before standing in front of her. Clearly, he wanted
her to pay attention to him as she folded her arms out in front of her chest
to pout.
Okay psycho
what do you want? she stared up at him seeing
his jaw tighten after she spoke. She saw him pace for a moment before tossing
his hands in the air.
You know, when everyone called you a nut
I stood up for you. When
you had no one to help you and you needed someone to step up and be there
for you
I did. Ive been nothing, but good to you and you treat
me like Im trash, Nate spit out watching the way her dark eyes
just stared up at him. She didnt say anything. Didnt even have
a single emotion. You think you would at least have a little respect
for me after all the things I have done for you.
What do you want
? she finally spoke up after the silence
that was between them. She stood up and reached for the magazine he tossed
aside before turning back to him. Some kind of cookie for being a good
boy. Gee thanks for being there, but I never asked for your help. So you shouldnt
even expect anything from me.
I dont know why I even bother with you, Nate went to say
more, but knew that the more he talked, the more upset he got with everything
and he was sick of feeling that way. Shaking his head, he reached for his
keys that he had placed on the corner of her desk and went to leave. You
know
you should really play out who to have as an enemy and who to have
as a friend because sooner or later you are going to have no one.
And when the time comes I guess you can say I told you so, huh?
she mocked him once more hearing the huff he let out while opening her bedroom
door. She could hear the door slam shut with the anger he still obviously
had for her, but yet
it still didnt effect her. Hell
get over it.
She could hear the car door slamming outside and she knew that he was upset,
but in the long run she never wanted to be with him. And he always
came back anyways no matter how bad she talked to him.
She wasnt looking for love and if she was -- it would never be with
him!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So this is what you meant by tacky country western huh? Shane
questioned looking around the smoky bar Diane had pulled him into upon the
conclusion of their dinner with one another. When you said you were
contemplating drinks, I had just assumed that wed be going to your sisters
place or
Being in public is safer, Diane explained reaching for his hand
and weaving her way through the crowd to a booth in the back. She released
him and took a seat with a smile. Plus Ive missed hanging out
here and since we were talking about being friends
You figured that wed have a night out like you and Jade did,
Shane deduced sliding into the opposite side of the booth, Though I
must confess if Id known that we were entering into dangerous territory
here I wouldve pulled my cowboy hat and boots out of the closet for
such an occasion.
You have cowboy boots and a hat? her eyes widened as she found
herself overtaken with a deliciously wonderful mental image of Shane dressed
as a cowboy wrangling cattle on the range. In that instant her temperature
rose exponentially.
You seem surprised, he laughed leaning in closer to her from across
the table. I told you I spent half my time in Michigan, remember?
They have farms in Michigan? she questioned before shaking the
naughty thoughts that continue to play out in her mind. Of course they
do. What was I thinking?
Im not sure, but something tells me that Id love to find
out, he noted reaching out across the table to press his hand over hers.
Youre blushing Diane.
I am not, she protested pulling away from him just in time to
bring her hand up against her cheek. Its just hot in here with
the crowd and
Sure, he laughed lightly while sinking back into his seat and
stretching his arms out across the back of it. Ill let it go
for
now.
Theres nothing to let go because I told you, she paused
hearing a sound of applause overtake the crowd as the band on stage finished
up their song.
I guess they are popular, Shane noted listening to the crowds
response. Its not my choice for dancing music, but I suppose its
workable.
For dancing? her eyes widened at the suggestion.
It wouldnt be the first time weve taken advantage of the
opportunity to show off, he winked at her. What do you say? Care
to put the rest of the bar to shame?
I dont know if we should considering that
Diane hesitated
briefly before remembering her promise to herself. Tonight she had a point
to prove and she wasnt about to let Shane intimidate her.
Youre tempted, arent you? he questioned stepping in
towards her. Admit it we make a good team on the dance floor.
We sure do, she nodded in confession as she pulled herself out
of the seat. Though youd better know how to line dance because
I dont want to have you make a fool of me out there.
Youll be pleasantly surprised by my skills, he assured her
guiding her out onto the dance floor as the band began to play another song.
This time however their music had shifted and a slow, melodic beat carried
over the smoky bar.
So much for line dancing, he noted extending his hand out to her
again. What do you say? Still up for a dance?
Sure, she agreed stepping forward into his arms as other couples
began to pair off on the dance floor around them.
See its not so bad, Shane encouraged as his arms eased around
her waist, pulling her in closer to his powerful chest.
Thats easy for you to say, she thought to herself feeling
the warmth of him stirring up sensations that shed believed she could
easily ignore. The scent of his aftershave mixed with the strength of his
arms, keeping her near him was enough to send her head swimming with naughty
thoughts. Her heart was hammering in her chest and as she tipped her head
up towards him, she hoped and prayed that the dim lighting on the dance floor
would provide enough of a mask to shadow over the heat that had found its
way to her cheeks. Dancing had always been fun, but dancing with Shane Slater
was temptation put together in a perfectly sexy package. Even now she couldnt
help but find herself imagining what it would be like to be lost in his eyes,
in his arms as they found their way to a more private dance away from the
crowd.
A penny for your thoughts love, Shane slurred in the thick, sensual
accent that had turned her into putty time and time again. His breath skimmed
against her neck, words weaving their magical spell as her head pressed in
against his chest.
Believe me you dont want to know, she admitted tipping her
head up just enough to feel his lips hovering over hers--a mere breath away
from the completion she longed for.
Try me, Shane suggested leaning in closer yet as Diane wondered
if she would be able to resist a taste of him all over again.
I think youd enjoy that far too much, she half teased, her
eyelashes fluttering as she tipped up on her toes, longing to claim his lips
if only long enough for one last taste.
When Im with you I must admit that you bring forth a certain intoxication,
he admitted inching in closer yet as Diane felt the urge to resist fading
inside of her. She closed her eyes anticipating the hunger behind his skilled
caress when she found herself met by a screeching sound from behind her.
Diane Stevens! I thought that was you, Cathy Ashleys voice
bombarded through the moment pulling Diane out of the fantasy and into the
reality of where she and Shane were.
Immediately Diane sprung back out of Shanes arms to turn around and
face her rival with a defensive stance. Placing her hands on her hips, Diane
glared over at Cathy with venomous intent as the blonde sauntered over towards
Diane and Shane.
I thought it was you when you walked into the bar, but then something
told me I had to be mistaken because clearly you wouldve been with Ben
and this handsome hunk is by far certainly not Ben, Cathys eyes
traveled blatantly over in Shanes direction. She tossed her blonde hair
over her shoulders and puffed out her chest, hoping to draw attention to the
low neckline on her tight fitting t-shirt. She smiled smacking her over glossed
lips together before extending her hand out to Shane. Hi, Im Cathy
Ashley--a friend of Dianes.
Hello Cathy Ashley, Shane accepted her hand and raised it to his
lips in a gentlemanly fashion, pressing a kiss upon it. Im Shane
Slater.
Also a friend of Dianes I presume, Cathy giggled up at him.
Id like to think so, Shanes dark eyes traveled over
towards Diane once again, revealing the desire behind his words to Diane.
Diane really doesnt deserve friends like you from the looks of
it, Cathy chortled amused with her own humor in the moment as Diane
glared at her.
So what are you doing here tonight Cathy? Diane interrupted impatiently.
Going out with half of the accounting crew again? Or maybe it was the
mail room clerk this time? I cant keep up with you.
Im actually here tonight with a few of my girlfriends, Cathy
pointed over towards the direction shed arrived in. Though as
I said before I was curious when I saw you werent here with Ben. Is
he late coming in?
Bens not here tonight, Diane bit back on her words wanting
to smack the smugness off of Cathys features as Cathy continued to press
for information.
Really? Does that mean theres trouble in paradise between you
two? Cathy wiggled her brow eagerly.
Bens on assignment in Florida, but hell be returning anytime
now, Diane answered flatly as she moved in closer to Shane.
Is that right? Cathy noted with a disapproving glance. Hmm,
well does Ben realize youre out with such a hunk tonight? I mean Im
sure he wouldnt be happy to see that
Diane and I are friends Miss Ashley, Shane interrupted giving
Diane the opportunity to wrangle herself off of the hook as Cathy prodded
for information.
Hmm, well in that case I dont think Diane would mind if I buy
you a drink, Cathy tangled her arm in Shanes. After all
being a friend of a friend its the least I can do.
Well I actually
Shane started glancing over at Diane once
again.
We were about to take a seat and, Diane stopped herself when she
felt the buzzing of her cell phone inside of her pocket. She pulled it out
and recognized Bens number on the screen before her. Immediately her
mood perked up as she answered the phone. Ben hi! How are you?
Ive had better days, he confessed with a sigh as Diane looked
over to Cathy and Shane once again. Are you busy?
No, not at all, Diane replied giving Shane one last look. Hold
on a second Ben.
Sure, Ben replied as Diane covered the base of her cell phone
with her hand.
I have to take this, she explained quickly throwing out an apologetic
look in Shanes general direction before walking off of the dance floor
and leaving him alone with Cathy.
I guess you can take that drink now huh? Cathy offered up in a
low, sultry tone as Shanes dark eyes returned to the blonde beside him.
Sure, why not, he shrugged allowing Cathy to lead him off of the
dance floor as he found himself wondering what kind of setback he would have
to face now that Ben had made contact with Diane.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Honey where are you? Ben questioned as Diane weaved her way into
the ladies room hoping for a moment of peace and quiet to speak with him.
Are you there?
Im still here, she answered watching a set of women finishing
up their lipstick by the mirrors. Where are you?
In hell, he sighed heavily, but Im feeling like its
turning around now that Im able to hear your voice again.
Its been too long Ben. I miss you, Diane confessed taking
a seat on one of the benches that were set up in the corner of the ladies
room. When are you coming home?
Soon I hope, Ben admitted with an uneasiness in his tone.
What do you mean you hope? Diane questioned curiously. I
thought that you said you were almost finished down there the last time we
talked and
There were a few loose ends that we had to take care of and its
taking longer than Id hoped for, Ben continued to explain to her.
Believe me theres nothing I want more than to be home with you
right now, but
But what? Cant you just tell them to shove it? Diane urged
him on again. I mean they cant expect you to just push your life
aside like this forever, can they?
Its not forever, he offered up.
It feels like it, she pouted watching the other women walk out
of the ladies room. She leaned back on the bench and sighed again, Ben,
I miss you and each day youre gone has been killing me.
Its killing me too Diane, but my hands are tied. Even now Im
sneaking in a phone call when I should be working on the case, he lowered
his voice a bit. I had to talk to you even though I know that I have
work to do.
To hell with work Ben, she frowned. You should just quit
and ask Brant if you can come back to work for him. Hes got great benefits
and you and I both know that he liked you.
Diane as tempting as that is, I dont think hes going to
welcome me back with open arms after hes learned that his company was
under investigation, he reminded her simply.
So coax Blake into talking with him. Im not fond of her, but I
know she can twist his arm and
Diane suggested.
Again its tempting, but right now Im where I need to be.
There are things happening that really need to be taken care of out here,
Ben began with a sadness in his tone. I know I wont be home as
soon as I said but
But nothing Ben. The job isnt worth it, Diane glanced up
at the high definition television up in the corner of the ladies room. On
the screen before her flashed a news brief on a fire that took place down
in Florida. Her eyes barely registered the story unfolding until she spotted
Ben on the screen before her with his arms draped around a beautiful brunette
before him. Immediately her mood soured as she shot up on the bench for a
closer look at the woman in his arms, unless of course the perks outweigh
what you have here at home.
Perks? he repeated with confusion evident in his tone. Diane,
what are you talking about?
I see you right now, she scowled up at the television screen.
What do you mean you see me? he questioned blankly.
On the news. Youre by a building and youre with a woman
and
Diane hissed in response.
What woman? Ben asked.
She looks kind of like a hooker with the way shes dressed and
Diane started feeling her anger rising up inside of her.
Youre talking about Lexie, Ben realized catching the tone
in her voice. Shes not a hooker. Shes my partner and Blakes
cousin. If you take a look at her youll see that
Youre enjoying more than just the weather down there, Diane
snapped back at him. Tell me Ben does the FBI pay you more for cuddling
in a crisis?
Cuddling? Diane, what are you talking about? Look whatever youre
seeing its clearly out of context, Ben started to defend himself.
Out of context my ass Ben, she rolled her eyes at his words. I
see it with my own eyes.
Diane, I dont know whats on there, but I can assure you
that its not what you think, Ben began desperately.
Oh Im sure, she groaned outwardly, I mean first you
tell me its going to be a couple of weeks and then you keep telling
me to wait and wait, but you never return my calls--never try to reach out
to me and yet
Im calling you now because its the first opportunity Ive
had to do so Diane, he insisted with an uneasiness in his tone. Ive
been swamped and
Busy with your, her word were laced with venom, partner.
Tell me Ben, did you get to hand pick her for the assignment?
I dont believe this, he groaned, Diane, lets
not have this argument. You know I love you.
Then come home. Say to hell with the job and come home, she ordered
thinking about her own situation with Shane. I love you and that should
mean more than some stupid case.
Diane, I wish it were that simple, but
he started desperately.
If you really loved me it would be, she pouted further. Come
home Ben.
Diane, I cant, he sighed before falling to a long silence.
Cant or wont? she challenged.
Diane, I want to but right now its not in the cards, he
hesitated for a moment as Diane heard a shuffling from his end of the line.
Look Diane, Im sorry and well talk about this later
When? she questioned. When you come home? Oh wait you dont
know when youre coming home, do you?
Diane, Im sorry. I really am but
he paused again this
time to speak to whomever had approached him.
Diane heard the sound of muffled voices from behind him. Although she couldnt
make out what they were saying it was clear the person wanted him off the
phone. In that moment her frustrations mounted.
But nothing. Why dont you call me when you get your priorities
in check Ben? Until then I think its pretty clear where we rank in your
life, she snapped back at him hanging up her phone with a hiss.
Looking at the mirror in front of her, she groaned outwardly as she tossed
her phone across the bathroom floor. She watched it spin on the tile until
finally she found herself wishing she hadnt ended things like that with
Ben. She stood up rushing forward to retrieve her phone as she contemplated
calling him back. She began to dial knowing full well she shouldve listened
to what he had to say, but then as she thought of their ending, she realized
he should be the one doing the apologizing. Hed put his career before
them long enough. Hanging up the phone she waited half expecting him to call,
but instead she was met by silence. It was in that moment that it hit her
that she wouldnt be hearing from Ben again that night.
Damn it, she cursed under her breath dropping her phone into her
purse and lowering her head as she wondered if shed just given her relationship
with Ben the shove towards destruction that shed been hoping to avoid.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Cringing, Alexa heard the sound of Ben slamming the door shut and she looked
to see him stepping into the room with an angered expression pressed in over
his features. Watching him for a moment pace, she could see that he was angered
and she wanted to say something, but was wondering if it would truly be the
wrong time to do something like that.
She had so many things she wanted to say or suggest to him, but she was so
worried that he would be mad at her that she kept her mouth shut for now.
Ben was silent for a minute, but as she watched him she could tell that he
was getting angrier within his silence. And she didnt want him to break
to the point of where he couldnt get out of it.
Do you need to talk about something? Alex offered up some kind
of support catching him off guard as he stopped after pacing for a long moment
to stare out at her. The stare made her feel a bit out of place knowing that
he looked angry, but hopefully it wasnt with her. Ben
is
everything alright?
I just cant believe that Diane is angry with me over my job. My
work
, he spoke up quickly before brushing her off with a shake
of his head and then continued to pace around the room. Im so
sick of this. Im so sick of waiting. Being stuck here. I want my life
back.
This is your life to some degree, she pointed out catching the
glare he shot back at her and she held her hands up in the air to try and
defend her point of view. Im just saying. You got into this job
knowing what it would be like, you would have had to assume that this would
have happened at some point. Having a case that seemed impossible.
Yeah, the case seemed impossible, but I really thought that if we could
have worked harder this would have been done already, Ben snapped at
her knowing that they had so many mistakes happen already that they kept hitting
the bottom of the barrel. He wanted nothing more than to have this finished.
He missed his life. This should have been done already.
Its not our fault that this has turned out the way it has,
Alexa tried to correct him as he dropped down to the chair in the corner of
the room and she took in a deep breath. Ben
you just need to do
what is best for you. Thats all I will say about this because I dont
want you mad at anything else I say about your life.
There was a silence that pressed in over them as she gulped down and saw him
looking toward the floor. He was rocking a bit while clenching his hands together
and she couldnt tell exactly what he was thinking.
I just want to go home, he finally spoke up after a few minutes
and behind his voice you could tell that he was upset. The expression over
his face and the regret behind his eyes could be read easily as he dropped
down to the chair. I want to go back to my life.
This is your life, she pointed out once more and obviously her
reminder sent him into a mood as he lifted his head up to glare out at her
tilting his head to the side as she spoke. I think you just need to
pick which life you really want to call home. If you arent
good enough for this job
Its not a matter of whether Im good enough or not,
Ben snapped seeing the way her eyes widened a bit with the venom that he had
behind his words. This is a case of unlike you, I have people waiting
for me who love me at home. I have someone who is in love with me and misses
me. I have someone to go home to. I have a life that I love, something that
is important. Something that you clearly would never understand because you
have no one in your life like that
at all.
Well thank you for reminding me of that, Alexa spoke up after
a moment of silence hearing him get up and he moved off the chair so quickly
that it sent it slamming against the wall behind him. Its always
nice to know that because of my work life I have no one waiting for me at
home. Thanks Ben.
Well how can you expect me to take any of your advice serious? You have
no idea what its like to have fallen in love with someone. To want to
be with them twenty-four seven and have them feel the same exact way about
you as you do them, Ben snapped at her once more and he could see by
now that she was no longer willing to put in her input after he snapped at
her like that. Standing there for a moment, he placed his hands over his hips
before shaking his head. God this is ridiculous. This isnt fun.
This should have been over because I have a life to get back to.
And eventually you will
, she spoke up watching the way his
blue eyes looked down toward the floor before he let out an angered noise
and moved toward the bathroom slamming the door shut behind him.
Flinching a bit, she could feel the tightness in her chest from what he just
said to her. She knew he was upset about not being with his friends and the
one he loved, but he was really hard on her just now. And surprisingly he
ended up hurting her feelings more than she thought he would.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Blake sank underneath the thick blankets of the bed in her old bedroom at the Ashford estate knowing full well that even the faint comfort of the past wouldnt keep her calm now that Seth was in jail. While shed wanted to go home, shed realized that home just wouldnt be the place for her without Seth beside her. Now closing her eyes she thought about one of the last times shed seen Seth before all of this happened to them.
I love you Blake, Seth whispered in her ear holding her closer
to him after theyd made love to one another. She felt the warmth of
his arms around her and as his lips tapered off over the back of her neck
she couldnt help but smile.
I love you Seth and I cant wait to be Mrs. Alexander, she
replied squeezing his arms around her tighter than before, This is something
Ive waited a long time to have in my life for us.
And its not going to be anything less than perfect, he promised
urging her to meet his dark eyes again. She shifted in his arms seeing the
warmth that radiated over her with his smile. He reached out to touch the
side of her face with a newfound hope behind his eyes, After tonight
Blake nothing is going to keep us from having what weve waited for with
one another. After tonight I hope youre ready to live out the rest of
your life as my wife.
I cant wait, Blake confessed sliding in for another kiss
as the scene faded out turning to the present once again.
Oh Seth, Blake sighed feeling her tears threatening when a sound
captured her attention from across the bedroom. She looked to her door and
was surprised to see it opening. Reaching for her blankets she fully expected
Ken to be there with a firm lecture waiting on the wings, but instead she
discovered it was Andy who had opened up the door to her room.
Blake, are you awake? he questioned as his blue eyes fixed on
hers.
Andy, she paused shifting a bit beneath her blankets, what
are you doing here?
Wondering how in the hell you were able to sneak out of the hospital
without my releasing you, he informed her moving into her room without
permission. He stood at the foot of her bed and gave her a long once over,
You know full well that I would not have approved of your leaving just
yet especially when
When my world is falling apart, Blake blurted out throwing her
hands in the air, Nothing else could happen to me to hurt me worse than
losing Seth and the baby has. Being in a hospital or here makes no difference
to me.
It makes a difference to me, he circled around the bed moving
in to eye her closely, You need medical treatment and
My Uncle Rex has that covered, Blake informed him stubbornly still
holding onto her blanket as he stared down at her disapprovingly.
Blake, its not the same as the hospital and you know it,
he reminded her pointedly, You should be getting the kind of care that
only I could provide you with and
And I appreciate all that youve done for me, but I can take it
from here, Blake informed him with a small huff wiping at the tears
that threatened to overtake her. Im fine here. Better than fine.
No youre not, he sank down to the side of the bed meeting
her sad, blue eyes. Were both smart enough to realize that.
If you have any doubts or concerns about the care Im under, then
go talk to my Uncle Rex. Hell tell you that his staff is more than qualified
to help me get back on my feet again. Im under constant watch here with
a private nurse and
she started again only to see him shake his
head at her.
Blake, I just wish you wouldve consulted me first, he explained
in a muted tone, I care about you and I want to see to it that you make
a full recovery.
Ill recover just fine here. Im not going back to the hospital,
she declared boldly her blue eyes meeting his with a newfound determination.
Fine, then if you want to have it that way, then you leave me no choice,
he matched her tone, his eyes narrowing in on her. You can stay here
and get care, but only if you let me be the one to give it to you.
I said I already have it covered, Blake huffed up at him.
And Im your doctor. I know whats best for you, but if you
want to argue with me, then Im sure we can find a way to get you back
to the hospital and I really dont think thats what you want considering
that
he tossed out at her with a firm, warning glance only to
see her face scrunch up with a mixture of emotions.
Right now all I want is to have Seth home with me, she blurted
out unable to refrain from her tears a moment longer. Bringing her hands up
over her face she started to sob weakly, I just want this to go away.
I know Blake, Andy touched her shoulder seeing her fall to pieces
in front of him. Without a word he eased in closer to her, bringing his arm
around her shoulders as she sank into his chest lost in her grief. Its
going to be okay.
No, its never going to be okay again. If I lose Seth, then Ill
have lost everything because of that woman, Blake sobbed unable to look
past the moment now that her world had been torn to pieces in the blink of
an eye. With Seth in jail and her still reeling from the loss of their child,
she found herself wondering what in the world shed done to have lost
so very much in such a short time.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Sarah ran the towel through her hair feeling a numbness that carried over
her long after the warmth of her shower had attempted to alleviate some of
the tension shed kept inside of her since the morning. She reached out
to wipe at the mirror seeing the dark circles underneath her eyes after the
sleeplessness that shed endured since Blakes accident and in that
moment she realized shed felt terrible. She felt beyond awful about
what was happening to her best friend, but what was worse was the fact that
she couldnt do anything to change it. Shed left Blake at the mansion
promising shed be back in the morning, yet she couldnt quite shake
the feeling that was gnawing away at her insides.
Are you in there? Douglass voice carried through the room
bringing her back to the moment. She turned around to hear him moving through
the bedroom. She could hear a distinct shuffling that perhaps was him sliding
out of his jacket, but before she could see for herself she heard him speak
up again, Sarah?
Im in here, Sarah explained moving to open the door only
to find herself face to face with him. Surprised she eyed him when he presented
her with a curious smirk.
Im glad I found you, he reached out to her offering up his
hand. She looked down at it half tempted to refuse whatever it was he was
about to offer, but after the day shed had she didnt want to fight
with anyone especially him. I have something I want to show you.
Do I want to know? she questioned sliding her hand into his and
feeling him pull her out of the bathroom. Once she was in the bedroom she
noticed an oversized box on the bed. Looking back at him again she couldnt
help but reveal her surprise, Doug, what is this?
Why dont you find out for yourself, he suggested nodding
to the package again.
Okay, but
she stepped forward a bit wearily before turning
to him again, you know you didnt have to get me anything really.
Believe me its not like I was searching for it. It just kind of
fell into place while I was out earlier, Douglas offered up feeling
an uneasiness carry over him, Then again I really wasnt considering
buying it, but I had a press photographer following me inquiring about you
and I so
Of course, she nodded doubtful about the validity of his story.
Moving forward she pulled at the bow on top of the package watching as the
ribbon that covered the wrapping paper danced its way down to the top
of the bed. She turned to eye him for a lingering moment catching the small
smirk on his face before she focused completely on the package. Tentatively
she tore at the paper opening it up until there was a brown box before her.
Almost there, Douglas whispered moving in behind her. He placed
his hand on her hip in an intimate fashion catching her off guard, yet she
kept moving to open the package. She felt his breath skim over her shoulder,
but nothing prepared her for what was inside after shed pulled the top
off of the box in front of her. There in front of her very eyes was a white
colored rocking horse built for a small child.
Douglas I
her eyes widened as she reached in to touch its
soft faux fur with her fingers. I dont know what to say.
I realize that we havent talked much about your child, but I thought
that it would be only appropriate for me to give him or her something,
Douglas confessed with an air of sentimentality in his tone. JT had
one when he was a child and you could never get him off of the damned thing.
I figured it was worth its weight in what it cost.
Its really amazing, Sarah offered up touched by the gesture.
She turned around to face him, throwing her arms around his shoulders and
leaning up on her toes to kiss him. After a moment she stepped back drawing
in a small breath, I mean thank you.
Youre welcome, he cleared his throat uneasily realizing
that theyd stepped across the comfort zone line with being nice to one
another, and for what its worth I figured it would be enough to
have the press stop hounding us for a little while.
Right, Sarah nodded disbelieving, but still she was in no mood
to challenge him or his motivations. She ran her fingers through her damp
hair before focusing on the floor in front of her.
So tell me, Douglas began clearing his throat again, How
is Blake doing today?
Shes still about the same, Sarah replied honestly thinking
about the situation taking place. She sank onto the bed and drew in a slow,
agonizing breath. She left the hospital though and wound up going to
see Seth at the police station.
Id imagine that didnt go well, did it, Douglas frowned
watching her slide further onto the bed. He took a seat beside her placing
his hand on her leg supportively, So where is she now?
With her brothers, Sarah admitted thinking about how heartbroken
Blake truly was, Her uncle arranged for the doctors to keep her under
private care at the Ashford Estate, but you can see that this is tearing her
up inside. Even with Seth, I know its killing him not to be there with
her when she needs him the most. Its so unfair that this all happened
now.
It is unfortunate that circumstances have kept them apart, Douglas
nodded in agreement, especially when they sound like two people who
truly feel something for one another.
She loves him with all that she is, Sarah revealed tipping her
head up to meet his eyes again. Shes probably the only real friend
Ive ever had in this world and I cant bear to see her in this
much pain.
Shes lucky to have you around right now. Youre a good friend
Sarah, Douglas squeezed her leg gently before offering up a small smile.
Most of the time no Im not, she revealed with an ironic
laugh, But Blake is more like family to me than my actual family. At
least she isnt alone right now, but with Seth, hes in jail and
Im sure his lawyers are working to get him out of jail,
Douglas noted seeing something flash behind her eyes. If he truly didnt
kill that woman, then
Youd think it would be easy to prove that, but nothing ever goes
right in this town, Sarah sighed heavily, Seth must be feeling
alone right now. Its as if he has no one on his side supporting him.
He has Blake and thats what is important, he pointed out
after a moments contemplation. Having the woman you love in your
corner is a miracle in itself.
Yes, but he needs something more like a friend or family member that
Sarah paused a sudden thought occurring to her. Ive got it. I
know what Seth needs. Rex and Ken might be trying to help him, but I can think
of someone who might be able to offer more impact in his life right about
now since Blake cant be with him.
Who might that be? Douglas questioned seeing Sarah standing up
to leave, Where are you going?
Be right back, she promised walking out of the room and knowing
exactly what she needed to do in order to help Seth. Why she hadnt thought
of it sooner she didnt know, but she was convinced that she would be
able to help her two friends find happiness again before they knew it.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Theres nothing to fix Brant, Ria frowned over at him knowing
full well that Brant was the last person she was about to reveal the secret
about Kevin and Angelas daughter to. While Brant had a vested interest
in the situation in being Angelas lover, she also knew full well that
she was going to speak with Kevin before opening up about something that wasnt
meant for anyone elses ears. Youre imagining things today.
Am I? Brant arched a curious brow. He stepped in closer to her
and watched her for a long moment, It seems strange that you wouldnt
want to be in there with Kevin especially since Angela is in there.
Youre the one who should be worried considering that Angela thought
she was in love with Kevin and not the other way around, Ria snubbed
him before spinning on her heel and walking into Kevins hospital room.
Or so you think, Brant mouthed under his breath following behind
Ria into the room to see Angela look up at the both of them.
Brant, hey honey there you are, Angela stood up and moved in closer
to Brant reaching out to embrace him, I was wondering where you and
Don went off to.
I got a call about work, Brant frowned thinking about all that
was taking place at his company, but the crisis is averted and now Im
back to see my beautiful family.
I still cant believe that they are yours, Kevin couldnt
help but tease with a hint of laughter in his tone, they are too cute.
Stop saying that, Angela frowned back at him, Honestly now
youre just bordering on being rude.
Its okay he can get away with it this time, Brant moved
forward reaching out to swipe Brandon out of his arms, They are so much
better looking than I am and I am not ashamed to admit that.
See being a father has made him smarter, Kevin jabbed again before
laughing, Though I have to tell you Brant youre one lucky son
a bitch. These two are perfect.
How could they not be with Angela as their mother, Brant offered
up proudly turning his attention to the woman he loved, She is amazing.
Yes, she is, Kevin nodded in agreement before glancing over at
an unusually silent Ria, Hey you. I wondered where you went to.
I needed some air, Ria replied in a neutral tone moving forward
and taking a long, hard look at the baby in Kevins arms, Who is
this?
This is Alison my new friend and over there is her brother Brandon,
Kevin explained with a bright smile, a warmth carrying in over his tone, Would
you like to hold her?
Oh I dont know if I should considering that
Ria started
feeling a bit uneasy about the situation.
I think you should go for it, Steve suggested walking into the
room and joining the group, because a child would look beyond amazing
in your arms Ria.
Steve, Ria turned around to see her former flame standing across
from her.
So tell me who brought in the bundles of joy? Steve asked leaning
in over Brants shoulder to take a closer look at Brandon.
Were the guilty party, Angela mouthed with a small smile
waving over at Steve, And you obviously are the one who did the handiwork
on Kevin, yes Dr. Biggs?
Dr. Biggs, Kevin repeated with a gulp unable to suppress his laughter,
You have to be kidding me.
Why is something wrong? Steve questioned as all eyes were suddenly
on Kevin.
No its just
Kevin found himself at a loss thinking
about his earlier exchange with the man that Ria was once involved with.
Steve took over for me at the clinic when I left the island, Angela
reminded Kevin with a pointed expression, You were there the day that
I hired him on.
I was? Kevin arched a curious brow before glancing over at a now
smiling Steve, Sorry, I cant say I remember it, but gee I will
admit to the fact that this world keeps getting smaller now doesnt it.
I dont know if I would go that far, Steve blurted out turning
his attention to Brandon once again, considering that there are two
beautiful babies in this world I would think its safe to say that the
world is getting a little bit larger for those of us in it. They are too precious.
They sure are, Brant boasted proudly, and Im glad
that they are mine.
As you should be, Steve noted before walking in over towards Kevin,
Hows the patient feeling now? Did you get the pain meds wed
talked about?
Yeah, Kevin groaned seeing the way that Steve looked over at Ria
once again.
Excellent, Steve nodded before curling his finger over at Ria,
Come here. You really should hold her. I would love to see how she looks
in your arms.
I really dont think I can, Ria began again nervously.
Go ahead Ria. I dont mind at all, Angela encouraged Ria
to take Alison from Kevin.
Well just for a moment, Ria grudgingly decided bending down to
pick up Alison and hold her in her arms. Wow, she really is adorable.
That she is, Steve nodded in agreement moving in to place his
arm around Rias shoulders and offer up a small squeeze, Just like
Id imagine for us when you became a mother.
Excuse me, Kevin blinked back at Steve with a heavy scowl.
I mean for you, Steve stepped back with an apologetic expression,
Ria and I always talked about starting a family, but with both of our
medical careers we didnt have time to fit it all in. Not that we didnt
have fun practicing for it of course
Of course, Kevin replied behind gritted teeth before speaking
up again, though things have changed. Ria and I are already trying for
a family and before you know it shes going to be very pregnant with
my child.
Is that right? Steve glanced over at Ria once again, I guess
I shouldve registered that after you mentioned you two were engaged,
but since I didnt see a wedding band to go along with that engagement
ring I had no idea that you were that serious with one another.
Well we are, Kevin snarled up at Steve having had more than enough
of Steves small blunders, In fact Ria honey why dont you
come and sit on the bed right by me. I would love to hold you and Alison in
my arms right now.
Kevin I, Ria paused before finally nodding in wanting to get closer
to Kevin. Sure.
Ria settled onto the bed with Kevin feeling him place his arms around her
shoulders possessively before he glared up at Steve.
As you can see doc Im doing just fine right now, so we dont
need you to stick around, Kevin snarled up at Steve before issuing a
firm warning glance.
Well okay, but Ill be back later, Steve nodded his grin
expanding before turning to Ria again, and Ria maybe after youre
finished here tonight I can take you out for coffee or something to catch
up while Kevin rests.
Yeah sure, Ria replied haphazardly before Steve walked out the
doorway.
Youre not really going to have coffee with that jackass, are you?
Kevin frowned over at her not liking the direction the conversation had gone
in.
I hadnt really thought much about it, but Kevin hes not
a jackass, Ria informed him with a shake of her head, Hes
a nice guy.
Any man who makes a play on another mans fiancée right
in front of him is not a nice man, Kevin stood firm in his resolve not
to like Steve.
Gee, famous last words, Brant glared over at Kevin hinting at
some of the fighting that had gone on between the two men over Angela not
so long ago.
Look all Im saying is that I dont like the guy. I dont
think he can be trusted, Kevin huffed impatiently glancing over at Angela.
Help me out with this one.
He seems nice enough to me, Angela shrugged her shoulders before
she and Brant continued to gush on Alison and all the while left Kevin to
stand alone with his thoughts on why the good old Dr. Biggs was nothing more
than a headache waiting to happen in Kevins life!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Glancing over at the passenger seat, Mindy smiled seeing the kitten she was
sent to take care of sticking his head out of the little carrier bag she had
brought with her to take him around. Feeling bad that Rusty would be alone
for a little while with Russ and Avery gone, she decided it would be time
to bring him with her for now.
She had already checked in with Russ and Avery to make sure it was alright
even though she figured it would be fine.
In spending the time she had with the kitten, she had already grown attached
to him from how playful and loving he was while she was there. So instead
of constantly coming back and forth, she found no harm in taking Rusty with
her while they were gone.
Which of course meant that he would be living with her for a while, so she
would have to stop off at the pet store to pick up a couple of things for
him to play with while he was there. Along with some food and things to get
him by for the next few days.
Come on little guy, she reached for the carrier bag seeing Rusty
stick his head back inside of the bag after she parked the car and reached
for him. Pulling his bag over her shoulder she got out of the car and moved
toward the store until she heard someone call out her name. Glancing over
her shoulder, she saw Nate standing outside over at the next building. Nate.
Hey Mindy, Nate smiled moving in closer to her while he seemed
to push something inside of his pocket after moving out of the sport authority
store he had just walked out of. What are you doing here? I didnt
know you had a pet.
Well actually
, she went to say something more until a small
meow was heard from her bag and she opened it to let Rusty pop his head out
of the bag. She looked to see Nate smile and move forward to gently press
his fingers in over the kittens head. Im babysitting.
Babysitting? he smirked with a wink before leaning down to take
a closer look at the cat before sighing heavily. Well, the little one
is adorable. I would almost think you might be kidnapping the little guy if
I didnt know better.
Hes a good cat, so I would certainly think about it, she
muttered knowing that it was hard to find a pet that would be this good right
from the start. I think if I took him though, I might have a problem
going to work since its my bosss pet.
Oh, so its Russ and Averys cat? he watched the kitten
go back into the bag and grab a hold of one of its toys before laying down
in the bag. Mindy closed up the bag as he sighed heavily and shrugged his
shoulders. You want some company in there? My dad just became very open.
Sure, Mindy didnt mind having a friend hanging out with
her since Trisha was sent off to help with some crisis that Chase was having
at home. So what are you doing out here? You certainly werent
someone I was expecting to see out by the pet store.
Thats because I was next door in the sports store, he winked
down at her hearing her let out a small chuckle and he shrugged. Yeah,
I know. Tacky joke, but I figured it worked. I was just having a long day
so I figured I would just hit some golf balls or slap around some hockey pucks.
And yet you are carrying nothing? she eyed him over knowing that
when he called out to her he had just gotten out of the store. Are the
sports stores no longer carrying those types of things?
You would think, he watched her move over to pick up some toys
for Rusty before looking over at him. I figured physically letting my
anger out about things would be bad for me. So I was just going to try and
calm down in a better way.
Calm down? she muttered watching him shrug for a moment and she
stopped for a moment to stare out at him knowing that something was behind
his green eyes. What did you get yourself into now?
Its just
it has to do with Cori, Nate explained not
sure any other way to explain it as. Staring out at her for a moment, he shrugged
and took in a deep breath. I dont know what I should say about
it, but I think I made a mistake in wanting to help her. A very big one. And
I dont know what Im going to do now that I got myself into this.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So youre really going to go through with this, eh man?
Kyle patted Grady on the shoulder after taking a look at his friend now that
he was dressed up in his tuxedo. Grady adjusted the collar a bit before glancing
at Kyle through the reflection in the mirror. I mean this is a done
deal once you say I do.
I realize that, Grady smirked over at his friend before letting
out a small laugh, and if you can do it, then I dont see why in
the world I cant do it. Come to think of it Ive already been down
this road once before.
And heres hoping it wont have the same outcome, Kyle
helped Grady ease out of the tuxedo jacket he was wearing before Grady started
to unbutton his shirt now that he was satisfied with the fit. While he knew
hed have to get dressed up again in a short while, he wanted to relax
for a short while before getting ready to take the plunge that would happen
later tonight. Then again Deana is really sweet so I highly doubt shell
turn insane on you unless of course you drive her to it.
Very funny, Grady rolled his eyes at Kyle before laughing, Ill
have you know that I love her very much and I cant see myself being
any happier than I am when Im with her.
Sounds a lot like love to me, Russ noted entering the room just
in time to hear his brothers words. It seems like you have a lot
ahead of you big brother now that youre going to let Deana make an honest
guy out of you.
Hey I cant let you be the only one in the family to finally settle
down, Grady wrinkled his nose at his brother before giving him a quick
hug, I cant keep trying to live up to the reputation in being
the rebel who keeps putting off the good life.
And it is the good life indeed, Russ confessed thinking about
Avery with a warm smirk, Shes really amazing and I wouldnt
want things any other way for us.
Hey you just found out that you were married, Kyle pointed out
with a small laugh, Surely you cant be basking in the notion of
wedded bliss this fast after learning the truth.
Ive been basking in the idea of wedded bliss most of my life where
she was concerned, Russ admitted with an air of sentimentality. Shes
been the one thing I knew that I wouldnt be able to live without in
this world. From the first moment I saw her I just knew that she was the one
that I wanted to share the rest of my life with. She was my world.
I can relate to that one, Kyle noted thinking about his own wife
with a warmth carrying over him. I guess when you find the right one
things just fall into place for you.
Listen to you two, Grady groaned inwardly before shaking his head
at them, You sound like a couple of lovesick teenage girls. I mean really
who knew that getting married would make you both lose your masculinity? Next
youre going to start talking about crochet patterns and cooking techniques.
Theres nothing wrong with knowing how to cook, Russ protested
with a frown, and besides just you wait after the honeymoon is over
youre going to be just like the rest of us.
Not if I can help it, Grady shuddered at the thought, No
offense to you guys because while I respect you both, Im not going to
turn into that. You both have it all wrong, but maybe its because youre
new to the whole marriage thing. Ive been down this road before and
I have to tell you the moment that you lose yourself completely to the idea
of happily ever after is the moment when fate steps in and kicks you in the
ass for daring to believe life can turn out like you want it.
Thats awfully cynical for a man who is about to marry an amazingly
wonderful woman, Kyle frowned back at his friend, Im sure
Deana wouldnt be happy to hear you talking like that right before your
wedding.
Deana doesnt need to hear me talking like this because she, like
the both of you, has never been down this road before. Im just being
practical about the matter and trying to keep realism about me, Grady
informed them point blank, I love her and Zane more than anything, but
the moment a person loses their own identity is the moment that misery follows.
I dont think Kyle or I have lost our own identities, Russ
shook his head at his brother before sighing, If anything life with
Avery has only enhanced my world.
Same goes for Heather and I. I mean, yeah sure, okay so maybe there
are a few subtle changes, but Im still the same guy and shes still
the same woman she always was. We just found a way to make it work with one
another, Kyle piped in thinking about the bliss hed found in matrimony,
Getting married was without a doubt the best thing Ive ever done
in my life aside from falling in love with her in the first place.
Yeah, I know what you mean, Grady finally admitted glancing at
his reflection again, Deana and I werent something I saw happening
a year ago considering that my life was so very different, yet
Kyle watched his friend grow silent before he stepped forward and patted his
shoulder gently, Life might have thrown you a few curves but you landed
on top of this one buddy. Deanas a keeper.
I know she is and I wouldnt want to be without her, Grady
admitted with a small sigh feeling a nagging worry in the pit of his stomach,
Its just when I think about how happy Jade and I were right before
she died
History isnt going to repeat itself, Kyle promised knowing
full well his friends abrasiveness were a direct result of losing the
one he loved. Trust me Grady everything will work out as it should be.
I just hope youre right on that Kyle, Grady paused remembering
his troubled relationship with Susan, because I cant imagine ever
experiencing that kind of situation again.
Deana and Susan are like night and day, Kyle promised his friend
reaching out to pat his arm when there was a knock on the hotel room door.
Expecting company? Russ half questioned as Grady took a seat on
the bed.
Not that Im aware of, Grady shook his head pondering the
thought of a moment. Suddenly his green eyes widened and he took a step back,
Wait it might be Deana. She might have forgotten something in here
In that case, Kyle shoved Grady towards the bathroom making sure
his friend was inside before nodding over towards Russ. Okay you can
open it now. Its all clear.
Russ did as instructed opening the door and half expecting to find his future
sister-in-law in front of him, but instead he noticed a single box wrapped
up in a clown print paper. Curiously Russ stepped out into the hallway wondering
if the person who had dropped off the box was still there, but instead he
found an empty hallway.
Thats strange, Russ noted seeing a card on the top of the
package with his brothers name on it. Bending down he picked it up before
carrying it back into the room with him.
What is it? Kyle questioned noticing the strange package in Russells
arms.
I dont know. It looks like a present, Russ replied walking
over to the table and setting it down.
Coast is clear, Kyle knocked on the bathroom door alerting Grady
to rejoin them, though it looks like someone wanted to give you something
before the wedding.
Really? Grady replied with a puzzled expression making his way
over to the table where Russ had placed the box down. What is it?
Im not sure, Russ admitted honestly watching as his brother
reached for the card and tore it open. What does it say?
It says, To give you the strength that you need for your special
day, Grady read aloud before setting the cryptic card aside. He
tore open the paper and opened up the box only to discover various trinkets
inside.
What is it? Kyle questioned leaning over Gradys shoulder
and spotting a very strange looking thing in front of him. Unable to quell
his curiosity he pushed his hand into the box and found a wax figurine inside
that looked a lot like a doll of sorts. Frowning Kyle tipped his head to the
side and eyed it closely, Is this Hulk Hogan?
Hulk Hogan, Russ repeated with a strange look. I dont
get it.
I do, Grady replied noticing the wick that was coming out of the
top of the candle in his friends hand. Suddenly a thought occurred to
him and he turned to the door again, Russ, did you say that was out
in the hall?
Yes, but
Russ started only to watch his brother sprint out
into the hallway to leave Russ and a puzzled Kyle behind. They exchanged looks
before Russ spoke up again, What just happened here?
I dont know, but Ill go find out, Kyle promised chasing
after Grady only to discover him near the elevators. Grady, hey where
are you going? Hey!
I have to find who sent that, Grady explained turning around to
face his friend in a panic. There is no way that anyone wouldve
thought to send me that except for
For what? Kyle realized that the color had drained from Gradys
face.
Jade. Kyle the only person who would send me that would be Jade,
Grady blurted out his heart pounding in his chest. He surveyed the hallway
before turning to his friend again, Only Jade would know about the Hulk
Hogan candle.
I dont understand, Kyle replied with a strange expression.
The night I proposed to Jade she and I were trapped in this shack in
the middle of nowhere. We had like nothing with us, yet I wanted to do something
special for her, Grady recalled like it was yesterday. He held up the
candle and waved it around in the air, This was the only thing I could
find to set the romantic mood and that was pushing it.
Grady that cant be the candle you used, Kyle replied attempting
to calm him down now that it was clear that something was truly upsetting
him. We both know that Jade couldnt have possibly sent that to
you because
I know Kyle. Shes dead, yet no one else knew about this. I didnt
tell anyone about what happened other than Jade and I knowing that
Grady turned around the corner again half expecting Jade to be there.
Grady, think about this one, Kyle chased after him, Zane
is an avid wrestling fan. Other than John Cena, Hulk Hogan is popular with
the children. Chances are that care package was from Deana and Zane wanted
to throw something in there
But the exact same something that Jade and I had? Grady turned
to face his friend again. What are the odds of that one happening?
Ill admit its very strange, but come on, Kyle paused
seeing Grady survey the hallway all over again, Grady listen to me.
Youre about to marry Deana in a short while and maybe this is your minds
way of playing tricks on you.
This isnt a trick to my mind. Its real, Grady held
the candle up again feeling an air of sentimentality carry over him at the
memory of Jade.
Grady, we both know that Jade isnt coming back, Kyle reached
for the candle before pausing, but if youre not sure about doing
this. If youre having second thoughts about marrying Deana, then you
need to find a way to deal with it right now before you break her heart.
No, Grady shook his head firmly knowing full well that he had
the world ahead of him with Deana, Youre right Kyle. This had
to be from Zane. Granted it was shocking, but who else couldve sent
this? Jade is dead and Im well aware of that. I lost her a while ago
and Im not going to ever have her back again.
I know it hurts Grady, but Im telling you that itll be okay,
Kyle reached out to touch his shoulder gently, Deanas an amazing
woman and I know she loves you.
I love her too, Grady paused glancing at the candle again, which
is why I cant let the memories of the past ruin tonight for us. We deserve
nothing less than the best for our wedding.
There I wont argue with you, Kyle patted him on the back
before smiling, Now how about we get you back into your room before
you jinx things and find yourself seeing your bride to be before your time?
That sounds like a plan, Grady finally nodded taking one last
look around the hallway before resolving to push the memories of the past
out of his mind now that it was time to move forward onto a future that would
be the key to all of his dreams of happiness coming true for him. Marrying
Deana was the best thing he could ever do and as he worked his way back to
his hotel room, he made a silent vow to see to it that their wedding went
off without anything to cause either one of them any grief along the way.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Nervous? Heather questioned reaching for the veil that had just
been sent over to the hotel a short while ago after Deana had returned.
Are you kidding me, Deana placed her hand over her abdomen and
took in a small breath, Im terrified. Ive never done this
whole marriage thing before and Im honestly not sure I can go through
with it.
Why not? Heather couldnt help but ask a surprised expression
carrying over her. Do you not think Grady is the one?
No, its not that, Deana paused turning to look at her reflection
once again, I mean its just that every time something wonderful
happens in my life, I have something on the opposite extreme come up and knock
me right back down again. I just dont want to jinx what Grady and I
have by jumping the gun.
Is that what you think youre doing? Heather couldnt
help but ask eyeing Deana intently.
No, of course not, Deana shook her head firmly before sinking
down onto the chair beside her. She threw her arms in the air before offering
up a small sigh, I mean I always said I would do this once and just
once, but that was before I had Zane. After that I guess I just figured I
was one of those people who werent meant for marriage. When Zanes
father left me alone to raise Zane it was my top priority.
Youre a good mother, Heather replied warmly taking a seat
beside Deana, Zane would want you to be happy and Grady makes you happy,
doesnt he?
Oh heavens yes, Deana nodded in confession a hint of color rising
over her face, and its not just because sex is incredible either.
I mean okay, so maybe the fact that hes the first and only man to ever
give me that kind of pleasure makes me all the more thrilled about the prospect
of sharing the rest of my life with him, but
The only man? Heathers eyes widened with a sudden interest.
Seriously?
Deana nodded awkwardly bringing her hand up to her cheek and letting out a
small laugh, I was only with one other man before Grady and that was
Zanes father the night Zane was conceived. It lasted probably a whole
five seconds and then it was over. The next day I discovered that he was sleeping
with one of my best friends as well and I ended it. A few weeks later I learned
that not only was my first sexual encounter highly disappointing, but that
I was going to have to live with it the rest of my life after I learned I
was pregnant. Of course Im not saying I regret Zane at all, but I mean
I had to have the worst luck there. I thought I met someone special and he
turned out to be a creep and
Youre afraid that you cant really open yourself up to happiness
because chances are that youre going to find yourself in that same disappointed
position with a lot of regret and doubt hanging over your head, Heather
finished for her watching Deana nod back at her.
Sounds stupid doesnt it? Deana forced a half smile before
letting out an ironic laugh. I mean honestly what kind of person thinks
like this on her wedding day?
Someone who has been hurt by love and doesnt want to travel down
that road again, Heather reached out to touch Deanas shoulder
gently, Look I know that maybe its not my place to be offering
advice, but having been there I know how youre feeling. When I was younger
I hooked up with jerk after jerk hoping to find something to make me feel
anything, but the more I tried to find something, the more it seemed to hurt.
When Kyle and I parted ways I wound up doing some really foolish things because
I felt like I didnt deserve love. I hurt myself time and time again
and in doing so I made a lot of mistakes all because I didnt think that
love was meant for me. Even after I found Kyle again I didnt believe
that I deserved to be happy.
But you are happy, Deana paused eyeing her for a long moment,
Arent you?
Heather nodded back at her, Happier than Ive ever been in my life,
but I wouldnt have been had I not found the strength to take a chance
on following my heart. I thought about letting go of what meant the most to
me, but if I would have done that I know I would have been miserable just
like youll be if you dont try to open yourself up to love. Yeah,
so Zanes father was a jerk who had the stamina of a sneeze, but as you
said yourself you and Grady have a lot that youve connected with both
sexually and emotionally. I can see when youre together that you care
for one another, Heather paused before offering up a small laugh, and
I think its safe to say the hotel knows full well how much you enjoy
one another when youre alone together.
Deana blushed before clearing her throat, Were we really that loud?
Girl, you were making me envious because as amazing as it is for Kyle
and I, I have yet to experience that kind of explosion, Heather teased
with a hint of laughter in her tone. I was half tempted to bust open
the door and see what he was doing so that I could give Kyle a few pointers
in that department.
Like Kyle needs them, Deana couldnt help but laugh at her.
He doesnt strike me as the kind of guy who needs any kind of pointers.
Well no he doesnt, but I mean wow when I heard you and Grady,
Heather shook her head before laughing again, I just knew that I thought
Kyle and I should have some of that. It sounded incredible.
It was, Deana blushed before hearing a sound at the door.
Oh boy, Heather glanced over in the direction of the sound, how
much do you want to bet thats your stud right now wanting to come in
here for a quickie before the wedding?
He cant do that, Deana sprung up off of her chair worry
carrying over her, he cant see me like this before the wedding.
Its bad luck and
Ill get rid of him, Heather promised waving her hand dismissively
at Deana. She motioned towards the bathroom for Deana to go hide while she
approached the door. Even if I have to hose him down Ill find
a way to get rid of him.
Thank you Heather, Deana called out to her from behind the half
opened bathroom door. A second later she popped her head out and spoke up
again, Tell him I love him too would you?
Youre going to be able to do it if you dont get back in
there soon, Heather warned sharply watching Deana disappear behind the
bathroom door before she reached out to the lock and opened up the hotel room.
She found herself staring into a pair of very blue eyes and in that instant
she couldnt help but smile, Well hello, who are you? Im
pretty certain that we didnt hire a stripper.
A stripper, he balked back at her surprise washing over him as
he looked down to what he was wearing. With a frown he met her eyes again
and shook his head, What in the world would make you think that I was
a stripper?
Well, I um
I just figured with that box in your hands and,
Heather paused before a frown overtook her. She placed her hands on her hips
and glared at him, Just who the hell are you?
Im Jason, he replied with a shake of his head, You
know Deanas brother.
Oh Jason, Heather gasped embarrassment washing over her. She opened
the door up further before laughing lightly, Shes hiding in the
bathroom right now.
Why? Jason questioned watching Heather shut the door behind his
entrance.
Is he gone? Deana asked pulling open the bathroom door a crack.
If he was here youd be in big trouble because I just let him in,
Heather teased hearing the door slam shut and listening to Deana squeal, but
lucky for you its Jason instead of Grady.
Jason, Deana opened up the door to find her brother standing in
front of her with a box in his hands. Happily she rushed over to him moving
in for an embrace before pausing. She eyed the box he was holding before a
smile pressed in over her features, Jason, you shouldnt have.
I didnt, he admitted with a small laugh seeing the way shed
reached for the box, It was on the floor outside when I arrived.
Really? Deana replied with a curious expression reaching for the
box. She carried it over to the table before turning to face him again, Come
to think of it, where is Zane?
He ran into Grady on the way up. He wanted to see him for a few minutes
before he made his way over here, Jason explained with a small laugh.
I think Zane is more excited about this wedding than anyone. Hes
already talking about walking down the isle and where Grady is going to start
sleeping once he moves into the apartment.
The apartment, Deana paused thinking about how she and Grady hadnt
given thought to what they would do with their living arrangement. I
guess I never thought that
Its okay. You can just move in with Grady and let me live at your
place, Jason piped in with a chuckle, I could get very used to
being there.
Ill bet you could, Deana groaned at him before turning her
focus to the box in her hands again.
Oh yeah it would be nice, Jason nodded again, Anyways Elliot
and Cheryl promised they would bring Zane down here after he spoke with Grady.
Sure, Deana replied noticing the sparkling paper on the small
box. She reached out to the card on it and extracted it from the top of the
box where the words were typed out on it. She read them aloud. Something
new.
New? Heather moved in closer to her ready to see what Deana had
in front of her. What is it?
I dont know yet, Deana confessed tearing at the sparkling
paper only to discover a tiny velvet box inside. She eagerly opened it up
to reveal a sparkling ruby necklace in front of her.
Oh my, Heather gasped at the token that was in Deanas hands,
That had to cost a fortune.
Are you sure you didnt get this for me Jason? Deana questioned
thinking about how there was no name on the card.
Do I look like I could afford that? Last time I checked I was unemployed,
Jason moved forward to inspect the necklace in her hand, but its
pretty sharp.
Its very stunning, Heather reached out to pull it out of
the box, and you should wear it.
I dont even know where it came from, Deana pointed out with
a small frown, especially considering it was in front of the door.
It had to be Grady, Heather noted thinking about Deanas
upcoming wedding. He couldnt bring it to you himself, so he probably
just set it out there for you.
Maybe, Deana lifted her hair feeling Heather move in to place
the necklace around her neck. Once Heather was finished Deana reached up to
finger the heart shaped ruby that hung proudly in front of her, Its
so beautiful.
Just like you are sis, Jason whispered brightly, Gradys
going to die when he sees you.
I sure hope not because right now there is nothing that I could want
more than to marry the thoughtful, considerate man that bought me this necklace,
Deana mused feeling an excitement carry over her now that she and Grady were
one step closer to finding happily ever after with one another.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Im sorry, Blake whispered in a raw tone pulling herself
together after shed cried on Andy for at least a half an hour. She tipped
her head up to reveal her blood shot blue eyes as he touched her cheek gently
offering up a soothing smile.
Dont be, he mouthed in response smoothing his fingers through
her blonde hair, I care about you and seeing you hurting upsets me as
well. As your doctor I want to make sure that youre doing okay and as
your friend, well there isnt any other place I would rather be than
here with you.
Thank you, she attempted to sit up straighter hoping to recollect
herself after breaking down in front of him, Im not normally like
this.
Blake, no one else would be any different in your shoes. Youve
had a bad run of luck lately, he reached out to her again sliding his
fingers through her hair before his thumb brushed against her cheekbone in
a faint, tender movement, You have nothing to feel embarrassed over
in leaning on me. Thats what I am here for.
Thank you but I dont understand why youre being so nice
to me, she admitted thinking about how hed taken to watching over
her, I mean you were friends with Kenny, but you never really seemed
to give a second thought to me before
Youre like family Blake. Ken was one of my best friends and I
watched you grow from an awkward little girl, to a bright and beautiful woman,
he confessed leaning in closer to her, his blue eyes penetrating hers with
a sudden intensity. She opened her mouth to say something, but instead another
sound erupted from the far end of the room.
Well Doc, I didnt expect to see you here, Rex blurted out
moving into the room and eyeing Andy with heavy scrutiny, I wouldve
thought that youd be at the hospital now that Blake is no longer under
your care.
I never approved Blakes leaving the hospital, Andy quickly
recovered standing up and moving to approach Rex, We havent been
formally introduced sir. Im
That little punk that used to spend time with Kenny-boy, Rex replied
unimpressed as his eyes dropped down to Andys outstretched hand. Yeah,
I know all about you and who you are just like I know full well that Blake
doesnt need you here anymore. I have the top doctors in the country
keeping an eye on her and her recovery.
Uncle Rex, Blake frowned at her uncles rudeness. Andy
was worried about me and
Ill bet, Rex mouthed eyeing Andy suspiciously, I would
imagine he was greatly concerned especially now that youre here by yourself.
I wouldnt want anything to happen to her, Andy continued
to explain when something else captured his attention. He glanced out into
the hallway beyond the room they were in and frowned. If youd
excuse me for a second.
Rex watched Andy move around him before leaving Blakes room without
another word. As Rex eyed him with heavy scrutiny, Blake spoke up again.
Hes a good doctor Uncle Rex, Blake offered up in explanation
to Andys arrival.
Good doctor or not I dont want just anyone here with my niece,
Rex moved forward to squeeze her hand. How are you feeling sweetheart?
Id be lying if I said I was doing great, but Ill survive,
Blake explained stiffly refusing to acknowledge her own injuries.
I know you will princess and I promise you that Im going to make
things right, Rex assured her ready to say something more when a crashing
sound vibrated through the room. He spun around to search for the source when
he spotted Andy lunging forward in the hallway just beyond the room they were
in. Ill be right back honey. Stay put.
Okay, Blake replied worriedly watching her uncle exit the door
to leave her with the sounds carrying on outside of her room.
What in the high heaven is going on out here, Rex demanded seeing
Andy charging at another person who stood by one of the pedestals that there
was a sculpture on. The sculpture fell to the ground in a shattering blow
taking the other man down with it.
I told you not to bother her, Andy warned sharply as Rex moved
forward to discover Zack on the ground in front of him, Youve
already done enough to upset her and Im not about to let you destroy
the balance in her life any more than you already have. Shes suffering
enough.
As if you have a right to tell me what I can do where Blake is concerned,
Zack sneered pulling himself up off of the ground. He glared at Andy before
stepping forward ready to throw out a punch at him. You cant tell
me what to do where Blake is involved.
No he cant, but I can you little punk, Rex caught Zacks
fist in the air preventing him from attacking Andy. Rex shoved Zack again
before glaring at him, Youre out of here.
No I want to see Blake. I want
Zack began again only to
feel Rex yank him down the hallway towards the exit to the house.
I dont give a damn what you want. Its time to go,
Rex mouthed leaving Andy to watch as Blakes uncle took care of Zack.
With a hint of a smile tapering off over his lips Andy realized if hed
played his cards right he could very easily win over Rex and then have all
access to Blake, which was exactly what he was hoping for!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Now this I could get very used to, Kevin confessed smiling up
at Ria before letting out a small laugh now that Alison was asleep in his
arms. He leaned over to kiss her seeing the curiosity brewing behind her eyes,
What do you say? Interested in having a couple of these?
Ria glanced down at the sleeping infant in his arms and couldnt help
but feel conflicted by seeing the child in Kevins arms. Watching Kevin
with Angelas little girl only further reminded him of the daughter that
was still out there waiting for Kevin to find. Uneasily Ria shifted beside
Kevin attempting to clear her throat before Brant spoke up.
Dont get too adjusted to her because you cant take her home
with you, Brant warned with a hint of teasing in his tone as he and
Angela sat on the empty bed in Kevins hospital room with Brandon in
their arms.
He says that now but after a few weeks of dirty diapers and late night
feedings Im sure hell be dying to retract that statement,
Angela teased leaning in to kiss Brant briefly before redirecting her attention
to her sleeping son.
Nah, I wouldnt trade any of this for anything in the world. You
have no idea how good it feels to actually be a father, Brant confessed
reaching out to touch his sons tiny fingers. This is even better
than I couldve imagined. I mean to sit here and see two beautiful little
people that were created by our love
Youre even better than I imagined, Angela replied leaning
in closer to Brant to steal a kiss from him before Kevin let out a groan.
Oh please get a room, Kevin teased before turning to Ria, although
you know if they keep that up maybe we should give them something to feel
jealous of considering that were the ones with all the chemistry baby.
Keep telling yourself that Kevin, Angela mouthed with a tiny laugh
ready to say something more when the phone beside Kevins bed started
to ring.
Were you expecting a call? Ria couldnt help but ask seeing
the surprise in Kevins eyes at the ringing phone.
I didnt realize anyone else knew I was here, Kevin paused
for a moment, well other than Russ and Avery and everyone on the island,
but still. Maybe Avery is calling to check up on me.
So you want me to answer that? Ria nodded to the phone again.
Yeah, I should probably talk to her, Kevin decided thinking about
Russ and Averys upcoming wedding. I need to let her know a few
things and
You really think Avery would be calling, Brant remarked with a
curious expression. He caught the look that Angela gave him before he cleared
his throat again, not that I would care one way or the other, but
Good answer, Angela jabbed him lightly before focusing on their
son again, You dont need to worry yourself with her or her problems.
I wasnt planning on it, Brant admitted turning his attention
to his son in Angelas arms, though I was planning on our talking
about our own wedding around the corner once we are able to get you and Kellen
out of being together.
Kellen and I were never together, Angela couldnt help but
crack a smile at the thought, I thought you and I already covered this.
We did, but I just wanted to make sure, Brant teased with a small
wink before hearing Kevins voice change.
I see, Kevin replied stiffly, his words coming out hollow and
empty as he kept the phone to his ear, When did this happen? How long
has he been there? And Blake?
Blake, Brant repeated removing his arm from around Angelas
shoulders as his full focus turned to Kevin. He stepped forward sensing something
was wrong by the expression on Kevins face and as Kevin hung up the
phone Brant couldnt help but ask for answers. Kevin, whats
going on?
Blake was in an accident, Kevin explained with a heaviness in
his tone.
Accident, Brant repeated worriedly, What kind of accident?
She was hit by a car, Kevin started taking in a breath, They
think that Valerie Madison ran her over and
Oh my God, Angela gasped horrified at what Kevin was telling them,
Is she alright?
The doctors said she would be fine, Ria offered up thinking about
the last time shed seen Seth.
Wait, you knew about this? Kevins dark eyes darted up towards
Ria once again, You knew about this and didnt say anything.
I didnt think about it until just now, Ria offered up apologetically,
I was going to tell you because I had seen Seth before I left, but
Wait, you knew my sister was in an accident and you just kept your mouth
shut, Brants brow creased with tension, You knew she was
hurt and
.
Brant relax, Angela reached out to touch his arm. Ria hasnt
exactly had time to get a word in here. She flew in during the storm and was
hit with one train wreck after the other.
Yeah well its time for one more, Kevin blurted out with
a grumble, Seth is in jail.
Wait, what? Brant glanced over at Kevin once again, Why?
Because apparently Valerie is dead and the idiots running the police
department think that hes the one that killed her, Kevins
jaw flexed with tension, but I wouldve done the honors if Id
been there especially when I think of what she did to Blake and the baby
Baby, Brant repeated feeling completely kept out of the loop in
the conversation, what baby?
She was pregnant before Valerie hit her, Kevin explained in a
raw, agitated tone, That witch tried to murder Blake and now
I have to see her. I have to get back home to my sister, Brant
decided thinking about what his sister must be going through. I have
to get the jet fueled up and
Im going with you. There is no way in hell that Im about
to let my cousin rot in a jail cell for something that he wouldnt have
done. Hell if he did to it, hes still not going to rot in jail because
that woman deserved a lot worse, Kevin declared thinking about what
hed learned over the phone.
Who called you? Angela couldnt help but ask.
Strangely enough Sarah, but Im glad she did because now I know
whats going on and now I have to find a way to fix it, Kevin decided
exchanging glances with Brant. You say you can get the jet fueled up
and ready to go?
Im already on it, Brant assured him ready to do what was
necessary to get back to Coral Valley and to his sister when it was clear
that she needed him now more than ever. He turned to Angela seeing something
cross over her features, If Blakes in trouble
Then were going home, Angela finished for him knowing full
well that nothing was more important than being there for family in a time
of need and given what Kevin had just told them it was obvious that the time
was now!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
After sitting in silence for what almost seemed like forever while Ben was
still inside of the bathroom obviously hiding from the rest of
the world, Alexa decided that she couldnt just sit there anymore. After
the things he said to her, she wasnt really feeling well and good about
herself to begin with.
Sitting in this silence was making things worse because the more she thought
about it, the more she could hear his voice repeating in her head over and
over again about the things he thought about her.
Maybe it was time to go for a walk or something rather than sitting here waiting
for him to come back out. If he wanted to come out and say something
he
would have done it already. The fact that he hadnt done it yet showed
to her that he wasnt going to.
What he said, he meant and she would just have to deal with it. He was upset
and she had no right to feel the way she did right now. It was none of her
business to be involved in his relationship problems anyway.
Getting up from the bed, she reached for her keys and moved toward the hotel
room door pulling it open. When she did, she heard the sound of the bathroom
door finally opening and she saw Ben standing in the doorway staring out at
her.
Im just
Im going to go for a walk, she simply
said not knowing what else to really say to him right now. She didnt
even expect him to come out of there anytime soon. The fact that he did, shocked
her. Ill be back.
Alexa
Ben sighed heavily moving toward the door approaching
her a bit as he grabbed a hold of the door. Motioning her to go back to sit
on the bed, he closed the door before she could leave and he sighed. Dont
leave. We have to talk about things.
I dont really think there is anything else to say about this kind
of thing, she answered thinking about the things he said and knew that
she really couldnt take him saying much more other than what he did.
I think we should just leave it at what we left it at before you came
out of the bathroom.
No we shouldnt because I was being an asshole, he explained
pleading with her in a way as he held his hands up in the air and tried to
describe to her what he felt. I was mad at myself for this whole ordeal
that I blew up at you and Im sorry.
You dont have to apologize to me. I was in your business and I
shouldnt have even stated an opinion because you are right. I dont
know what its like, she muttered and he could see that her feelings
were still wounded by what he said as she shrugged. Its fine Ben
really.
Please let me try to apologize here, Im really sorry that I hurt
your feelings, okay? I am just
I miss my life. I miss my friends. I miss
Diane. I miss being with her, he rambled on a bit before sitting down
on the bed next to her and he shook his head. Im not good with
these kind of things and Im sorry. I shouldnt have taken it out
on you when I was mad at myself. Do you think you could forgive me?
Of course, she spoke up seeing the way he smiled before moving
forward to hug her quickly and when he pulled away she shrugged. You
know
I could try to get someone else to work on this case with me if
you want. Maybe that would help and it could get you back to your life.
No, Im fine
, Ben sighed standing up from the bed and
moved over toward his phone to look down at the screen. I started something
and Im going to finish it. Thats the only way we are ever going
to finish this.
Alright, she simply nodded and she hoped that they finished this
sooner than she thought they would because she didnt want it to be like
this for long.
Ben constantly slipping up with his anger it was something Alexa wasnt used to and she wanted to make sure that she avoided that side of him! And hopefully she could do that by getting a move on this case somehow.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Diane stomped out of the ladies room ready to just put the night behind her
after her disastrous conversation with Ben. Although her pride had kept her
from calling Ben back initially she couldnt help but find herself caving
in as she dialed his cell phone number only to be greeted by his voice mail.
Shed tried a couple more times before exiting the ladies room with no
avail. Now as she reentered the bar all she wanted to do was go back to Deidras
place and bury herself in her sorrows and perhaps some of the double chunk
chocolate ice-cream that Deidra had hidden in the back of the freezer. She
just had to collect Shane and be on her way. It would be an end to another
miserable night brought on by the distance between her and Ben. Of course
as Diane spotted Shane and Cathy over by the bar doing shots with one another,
Diane suddenly realized it wasnt going to be nearly as easy as shed
anticipated.
Honestly what is a sexy guy like you doing wasting your time with someone
as miserable as Diane Stevens? Cathy slurred running her hand across
Shanes arm as her eyes widened with curiosity. Shes not
even remotely close to being loyal with men. Shes a user and a cheat
and thats on a good day
Maybe I like danger, Shane wiggled his brow suggestively. He set
his shot glass down on the countertop before signaling the bartender to bring
them another round.
Then Im sure youd like me, she arched in towards him,
using the momentum to slide her shirt further down over her cleavage to reveal
her attributes to him. We could get into lots of trouble
with one another.
Unfortunately for you Shane has other plans, Diane finally interrupted
with a glare stepping in beside Shane and Cathy. Hes here with
me tonight.
As your friend, Cathy reminded her with a wrinkled expression,
but a man like Shane needs more than a friend especially on a cold,
lonely night like tonight.
Actually the drinks are helping with that, Shane motioned to the
shot glass on the counter top, Can I buy you a drink?
Why not, Diane decided sliding in closer to the bar and reaching
for his newly refilled glass. She raised it to her lips and downed it immediately.
Setting it down she turned to the bartender. How about another?
Youve got it, the bartender smiled at her while refilling
the glass.
Actually, Cathy began elbowing Diane harshly in the hopes of causing
her to spill the newly refilled shot, Shane and I were having a bit
of a drinking contest between us and youre not invited Diane.
A drinking contest? Diane repeated giving Shane a curious look.
I dont know if Id call it that exactly, Shane flashed
a small smile in Cathys direction. Rather we were just having
a wager on something if you will
What kind of wager? Dianes dark eyes shot back to Cathy.
If I win, he comes home with me and its no holds barred tonight,
Cathy explained licking her lips in a provocative fashion.
And if he wins? Diane couldnt help but question.
Then hes stuck with you I suppose, Cathy wrinkled her nose
at the thought, though Im pretty sure it wont get to that.
Now if youll excuse us weve got another round here to start.
Actually, Diane ripped the glass out of Cathys hand, considering
that Shanes here with me, I dont think hes in a position
to be entering into any kind of bets with you. Hes with me tonight.
Last time I checked hes not a puppy dog, Cathy rolled her
eyes at Diane before sliding her fingers down across Shanes chest. From
what Ive seen hes a very strong willed capable man ready to make
his own decisions about things in life around him so if youll excuse
us.
No it doesnt work that way, Diane argued pushing her way
between Cathy and Shane. Im the one that asked Shane to join me
here tonight so if you even think you are going to stand a chance at taking
him off my hands, then you need to go through me first.
That shouldnt be too hard, Cathy rolled her eyes in response.
Good, then how about we start where you left off? Diane motioned
to the bartender to give them another round of shots. He poured the drinks
and prepared to walk away as Diane reached out to him again. Could you
just leave the bottle?
I dont know if I could seeing as
the bartender began
to politely decline as hed caught part of the conversation between the
two women.
Ill see that everything is taken care of, Shane assured
the man while withdrawing a hundred dollar bill out of his pocket.
The bartender shrugged and left the bottle on the countertop before walking
away to tend to other patrons. Once he was out of sight Diane flashed an icy
smirk over at Cathy.
So what do you say? Still think you can out drink me? Diane questioned
boldly.
Ive already had three shots, Cathy folded her arms in front
of her chest smugly, so youre already losing.
In that case Ill more than catch up, Diane downed three
more drinks before glaring over at Cathy. Ill even make it so
the first one doesnt count. Hows that?
Fair enough, Cathy motioned for Diane to pour them another round
of shots.
Diane, you dont have to do this, Shane whispered over her
shoulder as Diane prepared to enter into battle with Cathy.
Oh but I do, Diane explained turning around to face him. Cathys
always trying to one up me and Im not about to let her do it again.
Diane, I was half joking when she made that proposal, Shane lowered
his voice a bit. I know I can out drink her without any effort considering
that its clear shes already plastered. It wont be much of
a contest.
Sure it will, Diane tipped her head up towards him, because
the last thing Im going to let happen is having Cathy get her hooks
into you. Shes the last kind of woman you need in your bed.
It wont get that far Diane, Shane explained as Cathy tapped
her nails on the countertop impatiently.
Are you two almost done over there? Cathy muttered impatiently.
I have big plans for Shane tonight and youre not helping in delaying
them.
You cant sleep with her Shane, Diane pleaded with him ignoring
Cathys protest. Shes not at all the kind of woman that you
need in your life.
Believe me Diane Im no saint, Shane glanced over her shoulder
to Cathys general direction, and Ive done worse Im
sure. I dont think Ill lose, but if I do Im sure I can go
with the flow for a while.
Not tonight you arent, Diane reached out to slide her fingers
across the side of his face. She forced him to meet her eyes as she spoke
up in an authoritative tone. The only woman youre going to be
walking out of the bar with tonight is me. Is that clear?
Diane, I cant ask you to defend my honor by entering into a drinking
contest with her. Its silly to think that
Shane began to
protest as she placed her index finger over his lips to silence him.
You didnt ask. I offered and Im not about to take a refusal
from you for that matter, Diane turned away from him to glare up at
Cathy.
Are you ready? Cathy asked impatiently.
Bring it on, Diane goaded her further as she reached for the bottle,
because tonight winner takes all.
Oh I intend to, Cathy smirked as Shane watched with amusement
knowing that hed made a bold, yet welcome move in initiating a conversation
with Cathy after Diane had taken off to speak with Ben. Granted the drinking
contest was Cathys idea, but the jealousy hed been rewarded with
in Diane was going to be enough ammunition to get the job done at long last.
Tonight he was certain that he would put an end to the manipulations hed
brought forth upon Diane Stevens as tonight would be about collecting the
ultimate prize once and for all.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...