Episode 429
So what was this emergency meeting all about? Shane questioned
sliding into the booth at the back of Irvins. Whats up?
Hungry? Diane questioned surveying the menu in front of her nervously.
They have a great bacon double cheeseburger here and
Diane, Shane spoke her name as he reached out across the table
to pull the menu away from her eyes. Whats on your mind?
Last night, Diane gulped setting her menu down and drawing in
a breath. I woke up earlier with a killer hangover and a hazy memory
of making a complete and total ass of myself. Ring a bell?
Not in the least, he shook his head and grinned. I thought
we had an interesting night.
If interesting included drinking until I passed out and making you bring
me back own only to listen to my incoherent babblings, then you really must
be hard pressed for entertainment, she cleared her throat before folding
her hands on top of the table. Though I did kind of want to ask you
a question about what happened after we left the bar.
What about? he arched a curious brow.
When I had you take me home Im pretty sure I probably said something
that I shouldnt have, she shifted on the seat once again. Her
eyes searched around the room refusing to meet his gaze as she cleared her
throat. I probably said things that mightve given you the wrong
idea about
About what? he questioned lazily. He leaned back further on his
side of the booth and fought to contain his amusement.
Well, you know the things that we really shouldnt have
she finally found the strength to face him once again. I know I did
things that were inappropriate and
You mean like attempting to tear my clothes off and make mad passionate
love to me? he winked over at her with a hearty laugh.
Attempting, she perked up at the word. Does that mean that
we didnt
?
He sighed and reached across the table for her hand. As much as I wouldve
enjoyed the honors of being able to share that experience with you, I happen
to enjoy my women fully sober in the heat of the moment.
Thank God, she gasped sinking back into the seat once again, because
if we would have
well, that would have
Have what? he asked.
Probably not have done anything good for our friendship, she cleared
her throat again, and wouldve made what I had to ask you a whole
hell of a lot harder than it already is.
Why do I get the feeling that Im not going to enjoy the direction
this is headed in? Shane couldnt help but frown.
Its not bad, she waved her hand dismissively. Really
its not bad at all. Its just I have a super huge favor to ask
of you and
Youre incredibly nervous about the buildup, so why not tell me
whats on your mind and put us both out of the agonizing misery youre
about to push upon us? he suggested leaning forward towards the table.
Well the fact to the matter is, she hesitated as she tapped her
fingers on the table top. My mom is getting married on some beautiful
exotic island to Richard Morrison.
Congratulations to your mother, Shane offered up. I know
you said it was important to her to find love again.
Its extremely important, but the fact to the matter is that while
Ill be standing up in the wedding, I havent been able to pull
Ben away from work for the event, she exhaled slowly, which is
why Im here.
I dont understand, he blinked back at her.
Bens busy with work and hes not going to be able to make
it, she offered up, but I figured since youre around and
I didnt totally botch up our friendship last night that maybe just maybe
you and I could work on putting ourselves back in neutral territory with a
vacation if you will.
Let me get this straight, he eyed her closely. You and I
got shit-faced together last night and you came here afraid that wed
slept together under those circumstances, but now that you realize we havent
you would like me to escort you to your mothers wedding on a very romantic,
tropical island where well be forced to spend a great deal of time with
one another.
Pretty much, she nodded, but it isnt as bad as youre
making it sound. You said we were okay in terms of being friends, right? You
told me you wanted for us to work on building that friendship because its
important to both of us.
A wedding isnt exactly the place for us to bond as friends Diane.
Weddings get people thinking about commitments and
he cleared
his throat as she frowned.
You dont strike me as a commitment kind of guy and besides,
she waved her hand dismissively, Im fully committed to making
things work with Ben.
Are you? he tossed back at her.
Absolutely and if you escort me to my mothers wedding I fully
intend to prove that to you, she insisted firmly. You will see
that what did or didnt happen before isnt going to change the
friendship that we have. Well be able to enjoy ourselves and spend some
time returning to the level of comfort that was there before I started to
get all hormonal on you.
It sounds like youre trying to push this more so to convince yourself
then me, he confessed with a heavy scrutiny in his tone.
Shane, I want you to be there with me to share my moms special
day, she pleaded with him. Reaching across the table for his hand she
squeezed it lightly. Youre one of my only friends and I dont
think I can face having to be at my mothers wedding all alone with all
the happy couples. Its damn depressing.
I wont argue that, but at the same time Diane I know that
he replied thinking about all that had transpired between them.
This is going to be fun. Trust me, she finished for him with a
wide grin knowing full well this trip to the island with Shane would be her
way to prove to the world that she was fully committed to what she had with
Ben. She and Shane were friends and she was going to enforce that even more
once they were away from Coral Valley.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Letting out a heavy sigh, Alexa fanned the underside of her palm in front
of her face feeling the stemming heat entering the small room that both her
and Ben were placed in together. Youd think it would be agonizing enough
from the heat that surrounded them, but the thing that seemed to be haunting
her very thoughts was the constant pounding of Ben slapping a pen against
the top of the desk.
Once or twice could have been enough, but it had been going on for over an
hour. She understood that he was having a hard time knowing that his girlfriends
mother was getting married and he wanted to be there for her--which is why
she gave him some time to take his anger off for a while with the pen. If
it worked for him, fine
he could do it. However after this long and already
being stuck in the cramped space and the smoldering heat--Alexa couldnt
take it any longer.
Would you give it up with the pen? she blurted out glancing over
her shoulder at Ben whose body seemed to tighten when she mentioned him stopping.
That left her regretting that she even told him to chill out because she could
tell that it just soured his mood even more. You have been doing that
for a very long time now. I think its time to put the pen down.
Well excuse me, Ben had a mocking tone behind his voice as he
dropped the pen down to the top of the desk. His palms dropped firmly over
the cool wood as she sighed. Didnt know I was bothering you that
much.
Is this really how you are going to be acting for the next few days?
If it is, I dont really think I can put up with you like this,
Alexa informed him turning in her chair to stare out at him fully trying to
get some kind of connection going between them. Would it help for you
to just talk? Rant to me about whats going on in your head. If it gets
the little annoying sounds to go away, it will be greatly appreciated. Its
hot as hell and I know you hate this situation completely, so if ranting makes
you feel better Ben, please do.
If I talk about things, Im only going to feel worse about the
situation and get more pissed off Lex, Ben insisted with an angered
tone while Alexa threw her hands up at his response and turned away from him
again. What? Can you blame me here? I hate this job, I hate everything
about it and it has made me miss out on so much.
Dont you think you should have thought about that before you got
this job? she blurted out knowing that she was getting a glare from
Ben at that comment and she didnt even have to turn around to know that.
She could tell by his breathing when he was mad which was something she learned
toward the beginning with him. I get that you are upset, but you are
making it seem like being around me is the worst thing possible.
Oh Geez, dont make this all about you because it has nothing to
do with you at all, Ben blurted out in somewhat of a disgusted tone
realizing that she was taking his attitude personal and she shouldnt
have been. This wasnt really a job I wanted to begin with Lex,
I did all of this to make my father happy and you know that better than anyone.
Do I? Because you seemed to be doing a great job before I came around.
Its like the moment I started with you on this job you threw a fit,
she pointed out as he spun the chair around to face her, staring out at her
in a very serious expression. Im serious Ben, I know Im
not the best company, but you have to have been used to this already. What
is the difference? What is different than before with this job? The answer
is clearly me.
I have no problem with you Lex, I am getting sick of being away from
the people I love. I was not made to have this career, I was forced into it.
I dont know about you, but when you love someone
someone you know
you are meant to be with for the rest of your life, Bens words
lingered as she felt every muscle in her body tightening knowing that she
was about to hear a long drawn out speech about love. Romance. All the things
she didnt have in her life and for a good reason. You hate to
be away from them. When important things are taking place in their life and
you miss it, you feel like nothing will fix that. If you love someone as much
as I love Diane, you dont want to miss a thing. When I close my eyes,
all I think about is her. All I want to be is with her. This job has lead
us no where, which means Im going to have to spend even more time away
from her and it pisses me off since this isnt what I wanted to do in
the first place.
Then you shouldnt have, she stated firmly knowing that her
point of view would never get across to him because he was so stubborn about
the way he felt. That was always the one thing that was bad about you
Ben, you let people guilt you into what they wanted. You felt bad, so you
went with it and did whatever someone else wanted and avoided what you truly
wanted. Thats where your mistake started. If you had actually done something
for yourself for once and tried to
Oh dont lecture me now, Ben tossed what was on his lap on
top the desk before standing up and pacing. He didnt need this right
now, not at all. The meaning of this is that I should be with the person
I love and I cant be. So therefore I am upset.
And I was trying to give you a resolution Romeo, Alexa stood up
and moved toward him to place her hands over his shoulders to keep him in
place for the small amount of time that she could. You just need to
relax. Diane is going to understand why you arent there. Work is important
to you.
Not really and Im afraid she wont, Ben insisted reaching
for Alexas hand to pull them away from his shoulders before moving toward
the bathroom. Honestly, I hate everything about this and I have no idea
how a relationship can last when Ive been gone this long. She deserves
better than this, someone who can focus on her constantly and Im constantly
stuck here in a room leading me no where with you. Thats not what should
be happening.
I agree it isnt right
, she went to say more only to
see him walk into the bathroom and shut the door firmly behind him. Clearly
showing to her that he really didnt give a care what she had to say.
At the moment he was mad and angry, which lead to him taking it out on her.
This is great.
The more time she was going to spend with him like this, the more that their
mission would become more in trouble. They were clearly getting
no where and he saw that which led him to do even less and to soak in his
sorrows. Which hurt him more than actually helped him.
All of this meant she had to do one thing
and she hoped that it would
work. If not, this was what she was going to be stuck with for a very long
time and that was the last thing that Alexa truly wanted.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Oh God, I hurt so bad, Evie groaned feeling completely spent
and exhausted after the strenuous night shed had. She felt the light
shining in through the windows of the bedroom, but it did nothing to quell
the aches that carried over her. When shed anticipated the direction
the night would take, she realized shed not been fully prepared for
what would follow her quest for passion. Now there wasnt an inch of
her that didnt feel like it had been to hell and back. Everything
aches JT. I wasnt prepared for this last night when we came in here
to make love.
I know sweetheart, but I promise you the pain wont last,
JT assured her leaning in to kiss her forehead gently. He slid his fingers
into her dark hair caressing her smooth, flushed skin before his lips traced
over her temple in a tender movement, I wanted to make last night as
comfortable as possible for you, but obviously I wasnt as good at it
as I thought I was.
No you were wonderful, she found the strength to turn her head
enough to face him. Feeling his arm around her, she couldnt help but
press her palm into the center of his chest, You were beyond amazing
and I dont know what I wouldve done if you werent with me.
I just wish it wasnt so painful, he whispered warmly in
her ear before massaging his fingers over her spine in a loving movement.
It wouldnt have hurt so much if it wasnt as enormous of
a shock as it was, but JT, I cant even begin to tell you how embarrassed
I am, she blurted out her dark eyes reaching out into his again, If
I wouldve known that it would make me cry like that when we were together,
then
Hey, its okay, JT brushed his fingers through her long dark
hair as it was clear she was beyond exhausted. Theres no shame
in crying. I do it all the time. You just havent been around me long
enough to see what happens when I see a sad movie. Hell, I even cry at cartoons.
No you dont, she shook her head and laughed lightly at him
in spite of the pain, Youre just saying that to make me feel better
because I threw up all over you.
No its the truth. Im a big baby about those kind of things
and for the record you didnt throw up all over me, he reminded
her thinking about the turn of events that lead them from the promise of making
love to their spending most of the night in the bathroom with his keeping
her company while she lost the contents of her stomach. Thinking back to the
night they shared he couldnt help but feel sorry for her. You
were well on your way to the bathroom before things got out of control.
I know, but one moment we were together feeling like we were in heaven
lost in one anothers arms and then the next, she groaned feeling
tears of frustration carry over her once again.
The next I was able to be there when you needed me, JT whispered
easing his fingers over the side of her face and smiling gently, Being
with you and making sure you were alright was what was the most important
thing to me Evie. I just wanted you to be comfortable and
Absolutely disgusting. You should have never seen me like that,
she closed her eyes and took in a small breath, Im sure its
absolutely disgusting to have to see your girlfriend throwing up in the toilet
while you get to sit there holding her hair back so that she doesnt
get it all over herself.
Hey, its not a big deal, JT tried to ease her concerns as
it was clear she had far more to think about than being worried about his
feelings, I was glad that I could help you. In fact I consider it a
major accomplishment that I got you to laugh at least once while you were
feeling bad.
Yeah, well it was at your own expense, she thought back to the
way in which hed tried to lift her spirits while she was losing the
contents of her stomach. Tipping her head up again, she felt his strong arms
around her and that in itself made her feel a bit better. I dont
know why you even bother with me. Im a jinx.
Hmm, well since you put it that way maybe its time for me to pack
up the family and leave, he couldnt help but tease before glancing
over at the kittens. I think we should pack our bags and maybe head
to Hawaii where we can find someone else who doesnt nearly jinx us like
you do. Maybe Ill just skip over that altogether and become a monk for
the rest of my days.
Stop it, she swatted at his chest lightly before letting out a
small groan, JT thats so not funny.
No? he arched a curious brow before pushing her long, dark hair
behind her ear with a small yet simple movement, Then how about I just
stay here with you spending the day in bed so that you can get the rest that
you need?
Id like that, she confessed with a soft sigh snuggling in
over him. She placed her hand over the center of his chest before speaking
up again, Why is it that every time we try to get closer to one another
something always happens to get in the way of us?
Maybe because its a sign were pushing things too fast,
he suggested remembering their earlier talk with one another. Evie,
there is no hurry on our being together. I love you and Im willing to
wait until the moment is right. I hope you realize that by now.
I do, but
she started with a small groan feeling her stomach
tighten up again.
But just because were not able to experience physical love together
yet doesnt mean that I love you any less, he assured her whispering
warmly over her ear, And I do love you. I love you so much more than
Ive ever loved anyone in my life. Even Miss Sunshine.
Miss Sunshine? she repeated her brown eyes narrowing up at him
with a small frown, Who was she? Some kind of beauty queen you picked
up on the beach or something?
Not in the least, he wrinkled his nose at her before shaking his
head, Miss Sunshine was only the most beautiful girl in the world. She
was the one woman that I was completely dedicated to and her devotion to me
was commendable. She thought I was amazing when the world believed otherwise.
So what? She was the great love of your life? Evie frowned hating
the idea of JT speaking about another woman with her.
I suppose on some level she was a great love of mine, but not like youre
thinking, he revealed squeezing her in his arms, Considering that
Miss Sunshine was a little Collie that I picked up when I was out on the streets.
She followed me home one night after a party and I couldnt leave her
alone. She and I were together for a great many years.
Really? Evies eyes widened with curiosity.
Thats right, he nodded in response a smile carrying over
his lips, She was one of the best dogs a man couldve asked for.
She really made me feel like Id found a home at a time when I didnt
think I had much of one in my life. Of course things havent been the
same without her.
What happened to her? Evie couldnt help but ask her brown
eyes widening with curiosity.
Unfortunately she passed on a few years ago, JT replied with a
heavy sigh, but not before having a few puppies first. My friend Kellen
has Tripsy, who is one of her puppies. Though I have to tell you Tripsy is
far more energetic than Miss Sunshine was. She was really incredible though.
She liked to go for jogs in the park and bite on my toes until I got out of
bed to take her for her walks.
So it was a full time job having a woman in your life, Evie couldnt
help but smile at the thought of him having a companion.
Well, it made life interesting, he replied with a thoughtful expression,
but Kellen is really the one who has his hands full. Tripsy is a character
though. She really likes to get into things. I remember once Kellen went shopping
and spent all day picking out the perfect pair of pants as he put it. He literally
took hours to locate them and it took Tripsy only a few short minutes to shred
them and spread them out through the house.
Oh no, Evie couldnt help but laugh, Ill bet
she got into big trouble.
Hardly, JT shook his head at the thought, Kellen wound up
deciding that they werent him anyways and he put the material together
again and made a pillow of sorts for Tripsy. I would be willing to guess she
still has it somewhere because Kellen spoils her.
Sounds like you had a lot of fun with Kellen, Evie noted thinking
about Martha, If hes anything like his mother, then Im sure
hes a trip himself.
Kellen is one of a kind, but
JT paused thinking about his
friend, we havent really kept in touch with one another.
Why? What happened? she couldnt help but question.
Life happened I suppose, he shrugged his shoulders before sighing.
I guess one thing leads to another and before you know it your friends
arent your friends anymore.
I wouldnt know about that considering that I dont really
have any of those, she frowned realizing how pathetic that sounded.
Life never gave me any time for them.
Im sure thats not true, he searched her dark eyes
seeing a sadness behind them. I mean you found me, didnt you?
JT, youre not my friend, youre my boyfriend, she pointed
out with a curl of her lip.
Wait a second, he replied with wide eyes, are you saying
that just because you love me, you cant actually enjoy hanging out with
me like you would with a friend?
Considering that when Im with you all I can think about is getting
you out of your clothes and, she started only to feel him press his
fingers gently over her mouth to silence her words.
Thats it. Were changing this right now. If all you see me
as is a good time without being your friend, then I have seriously misrepresented
myself. In fact, now that I think about it, I believe that weve got
some friend time to get into with one another, he informed her with
a cryptic smirk. Stay right here.
Where are you going? she couldnt help but ask watching him
slide out from beneath the blankets. She brought her hand over her abdomen
knowing full well she didnt have the energy to follow him out of the
room. Instead she sank into her pillows until she heard his footsteps returning.
She opened her eyes again and eyed him suspiciously. Where did you go?
To get this, he explained reaching out to reveal a small black
box to her.
What is it? she couldnt help but ask seeing him set it up
on the table beside the bed. He opened it up and pulled out what appeared
to be a tiny television screen.
Its a portable DVD player. I had it tucked away just in case and
now is a perfect time for it, he informed her with a small smile, so
tell me friend are you in the mood for a comedy or a drama?
It might hurt to laugh, she pondered the thought for a moment,
but then again crying might not be a good idea either.
Okay, then well scratch both those ideas then, he decided
looking into the tote bag hed also carried in with him. How about
a mystery? Think youre up for that?
I might fall asleep on you, she confessed thinking about how shed
felt.
Thats okay too. If you do, you can just sleep in my arms because
a friend would do that for another friend, he offered up repositioning
the DVD player on the nightstand.
Would you do it for Kellen? she couldnt help but ask a hint
of a smile teasing over the corners of her mouth.
In a word, no, but I guess if he needed me I would be there for him,
he informed her curling his arm around her and urging her to slide in closer
to him, but these arms are reserved for just you.
I can certainly get into that, she decided snuggling into his
chest again and trying to ignore the ache that still vibrated over her now
that she was safe and warm in his arms ready to get into whatever movie that
he had in store for them. She tipped her head up for a brief moment catching
the way his eyes were on her and she frowned, Youre supposed to
be watching the movie, not me.
I will, he replied shaking his head and laughing. After a few
minutes had passed, he felt her snuggle further into him and before the opening
credits were finished, he could hear the soft sounds of her breathing indicating
that shed fallen asleep. Lovingly he massaged his fingers through her
dark hair before smiling and finding that the movie couldnt keep his
attention now that he found himself at complete ease with her in his arms.
He repositioned himself on the bed, curling his arm around her further before
he too opted to just enjoy her company above all else in the quiet time they
had with one another.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Letting out a tight groan, Kevin turned over in bed feeling the large amount
of vibrating warmth shooting up his leg in a painful tension. Gripping onto
his thigh, he could feel the way his muscle tightened beneath his touch which
made him jolt up from his laying position on the bed.
Ria, Kevin was able to mutter out half expecting her to wake up
beside him to help him through the pain, but when he looked to the other side
of the bed he saw that she was no longer in the room with him. Hissing out,
he could feel the tension rising inside of his body making him fall back on
the bed in pain.
His neck tensed, his jaw tightening in anguish making his whole body hurt
with the way his leg was jolting pain through him. Breathing heavily, he tried
to focus on something else. To somehow focus on another subject to make his
mind forget the pain, but it was too hard to accomplish.
The best thing he could do was sit through the pain and wait for it to wear
off. Turning on his side, he made sure his leg was off the bed and there was
no pressure being put on it to add to the pressure that was flowing through him.
A small whimper fell from his lips as he tried to sit up in the bed when it
was clear that this pain wasnt going to just go away. He was stuck with
this injury, he would have to work his way through it somehow.
Ria? Kevin called out one more time hoping that she was
in the bathroom to help him get to his wheel chair, but once again he was
met by complete silence. Showing him that she wandered off through the Ashford
mansion while he slept.
Getting his good leg over the side of the bed, he tried to use the power of
his arms to get his other leg on the ground, but it hurt to even bend it like
that. He was extremely weak overall, both mentally and physically. Being this
clearly dependent on others made him feel extremely bad about himself. He
wasnt the type that liked to have other people help him even when he
was hurt. It made him feel helpless.
You can do this, he tried to prepare himself as he leaned forward
to reach for his wheel chair that was by the window. Skimming his fingers
over the arm of it, he let out a tight groan when he could feel that he was
stretching too far and it sent a jolt through his side. Damn it.
Part of him just wished that Ria would come back any second to help him with
this, but he knew that he would have to learn to do a few things on his own.
The thought of even needing someones help to get out of bed made him
miserable that he could feel this bad.
It figured that when Seths world came crashing down around him and when
he needed Kevin the most, he was completely useless. What could someone who
couldnt even get out of bed on his own do to help Seth?
Come on, he tried to reach for it again only to just miss it again
and the more he tried, the more he hurt himself. Falling back against the
bed, he just seemed to give up. The best thing he could do was just wait for
Ria to come back because there was no use in even trying.
Trying to pull himself back up on the bed, his good leg jammed into the edge
of the nightstand making him cuss out before bringing his fist forward to
knock over the lamp that was on top. The crash was loud, but he didnt
care. This was all beginning to be too much.
Great
, he mumbled covering his eyes wishing that none of
this would have happen. He felt worthless, hopeless and useless. Like there
was nothing he could do to change this.
Hey
the sound of Angelas voice made him look up toward
the bedroom door to see that she was moving into the room and he let out a
heavy breath. Are you alright?
I cant get up, he explained in almost a whisper because
he was embarrassed of the situation. Watching her close the door behind her,
she moved around the bed before reaching for his hands. I can do it.
Clearly
, she looked to the lamp that was on the floor and
she grabbed a hold of his hands, pulling him up into a sitting position on
the edge of the bed. Why didnt you just call for help?
Angie
, he breathed heavily knowing that he should have,
but he had left his cell phone across the room last night to charge and he
didnt want to scream for help considering he was embarrassed enough.
I just
Its okay, Angelas words came out in a gentle manner
while she kneeled before him and reached to roll up the loose material of
his pant leg carefully. When her fingers grazed over his thigh, she heard
a hiss escape his lips and she frowned. You should have never rushed
away from the hospital Kevin.
You know why I did it, he grumbled as she moved up from the floor
and over toward the dresser where his medicine was sitting on top. He could
hardly focus on what she was doing, but he could hear that she was going through
the few bags of what he had there. Im sorry, I didnt mean
to worry you.
Im just glad you are alright, she came back handing him
over the medication he was supposed to be taking to make sure he didnt
get an infection. We will have to work on the rest of the medicine in
a bit. Just take this for now.
Thank you, Kevins dark eyes stared into hers for a long
moment as he swallowed down the pills forcefully trying to get them down his
throat with how big they were. I cant stand this.
You were never one for depending on other people, Angela reminded
him pulling his wheelchair closer to the bed. She bent down and wrapped her
arms firmly around his mid section. Try and work with me, okay?
No, no, he tried to move her arms from around him. Finally wiggling
enough to get out of her grasps, he shook his head and let out a heavy breath.
You just had the twins Angie, Im not going to over work you. At
this point, you can get hurt just as much as I can.
I think Im in a better position though Adonis, she watched
him brace his left hand over the bed and the right on the nightstand. It looked
like it took every ounce of his power to pull himself up. Moving forward,
she tried to grasp a hold of him so he didnt fall as she helped him
down to the chair carefully. A relieved sigh escaped his lips as she held
onto him for a moment when she felt his body shaking. Kevin, are you
going to be okay? Really?
Ill survive, he breathed heavily feeling her moving back
for a moment to press a small kiss over his temple. He knew that by the sound
of her voice she didnt believe he was alright, but he couldnt
just sit back and let his injury keep him away from those he loved. Thank
you.
Lean forward, she saw him reach for his shirt and she grabbed
it before he could. Her demand caused him to glare up at her giving her a
small laugh. Its alright, Im used to helping you out after
this long. So just lean forward and stop being stubborn.
Im not being stubborn, he began to argue noticing the expression
she was giving him and he felt himself going silent as he let out a heavy
sigh. Oh, alright.
Its not like we havent been in this kind of position before,
she pointed out with a hollow sigh getting the material down his body before
kneeling in front of him. Reaching out with her right hand, she traced her
fingertips over his rough features. Youre always putting yourself
in harms way.
I was looking for you, its worth it
, he reminded her
with a small glance before clearing his throat and glancing away to avoid
eye contact with her. It worked. The twins are safe, you are alright
and Brant is just fine--I say the pain is worth it.
Well, I dont like seeing you hurt, Angela reminded him nudging
his chin playfully. A small sigh escaped her lips as she stood from the ground
and nodded toward the door. Which speaking of the twins, what do you
think
you want to go see them?
Id love to, Kevin nodded with a small smirk knowing it was
one of the only things that would make him smile the whole day. With the things
that were taking place, he knew that it was unlikely for him to actually be
happy. If he was able to get a few moments of peace for a while, he was ready
to accept it.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Brant carried the tray hed put together in the kitchen towards Blakes
room hoping that he would be able to lift her spirits enough to get her to
eat something if for no other reason than to regain some of her strength.
Thinking about all shed been through Brant couldnt help but worry
about his sister hoping that she was having a better morning than shed
had the previous evening when shes been haunted by nightmares. Even
after being given a sedative she was still lost in her dreams and it was clear
that nothing was making life easier on Blake. He suspected that wouldnt
change until Seth was back with her again, but it was still worth a shot in
trying to help her.
Turning around the corner Brant anticipated the things he would do and say
to try to cheer her up, but before he was able to follow through on his intentions,
he spotted someone lurking outside Blakes door. Frowning he stepped
forward seeing a woman placing her hand on the door knob while she hunched
over as if she was going to sneak into the room. Agitated Brant cleared his
throat and stepped up behind her.
What the hell do you think youre doing? Brant snapped not
quite sure why anyone other than family would be outside Blakes door,
but when the woman in front of him stood up revealing herself to him Brant
couldnt help but feel anger boil over him.
Brant, hey, Gillian waved at him offering up a small smile before
standing up straighter. Hi, how are you this morning?
Im wondering what youre doing in my home and why youre
outside my sisters room. No, I take that back, I think I can guess why
you are outside of Blakes room, but the question is how did you get
in here? Brant questioned with an angry glare giving her a brief once
over. He could see that she wasnt her usual prim and proper self now
that her hair was loosely draped over her shoulders, there was little to no
makeup on her face and if he didnt know better he would think that shed
traded her trench coat for a bathrobe. A very familiar bathrobe at that.
There you are, a voice called out from down the hallway as Brant
looked up to see his Uncle Rex approaching them in a matching bathrobe.
Gee, that figures. Now I know why youre here, Brant rolled
his eyes at Gillian before glancing down over at Rex, Rex it looks like
your plaything got lost on her way to the bathroom or wherever else she told
you she was slipping off to.
Gillian? Rex tipped his head to the side seeing the way that Gillian
offered up a small smile over at him.
I just wanted to check in on Blake and see how she was doing,
Gillian offered up in her own defense before turning to look at Brant again,
You cant fault me for wanting to do that.
You have a lot of faults, but even if youve been able to charm
him into an invite into the house, Brant glanced over at his uncle once
again before shaking his head, Blakes room is off limits. You
stay the hell away from her.
Brant, I only want to help her and Seth. Surely you could see that considering
that Im good at what I do, she protested curling her lip in a
pout before her long hair moved just beyond her shoulders. I do a great
job at what I put my mind into.
Clearly, he remarked offhandedly glancing over at Rex again, You
might want to keep her on a leash because she doesnt listen very well.
Brant, you dont have to talk to me like that. Im not a child
and
Gillian watched him move in front of her before glaring down
at her.
You dont have free run around my home Gillian and you would be
best suited to make sure that you remember that, Brant scoffed in response
glaring at her one last time before pushing her out of the way. He moved to
open Blakes door in a quick movement before closing it behind him and
locking her out.
Come on Brant. Im just trying to help, Gillian frowned before
turning to Rex again, Are you going to let him talk to me like that?
Hey, you were the one who got caught, Rex shrugged his shoulders
at her, Plus the last time I saw you, you mentioned you were on your
way to the kitchen to get some of that ice-cream we talked about.
I guess I just started thinking about Blake and
Gillian
curled her lip in a pout reaching out to slide her hands over the center of
Rexs chest. Rexy you promised me that I could see her--that I
could talk to her about what happened
Later precious, Rex reached out to touch her cheek lightly, but
right now you promised me something back in my room--something that I really
dont think we should continue out in the hallway here with Brant around.
Gillian eyed the door to Blakes room once again, a frown touching over
her lips before she reluctantly turned her attention to Rex again bound and
determined to find a way to get inside. Brant might keep trying to stop her
from speaking with Blake, but she was going to make damn certain that he wouldnt
succeed in his mission. One way or another she would get that story from Blake
even if it was the last thing she did!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So what happened with Angela yesterday Ken? There was no reason that
she should have hit you like that, Wendy moved in behind Ken as he let
out a small wince feeling the after effects of the kick that she gave him.
Last night when Wendy came into the room, Rex was brilliant enough to tell
Wendy what had happened to him, probably to take the blame off himself, but
still. Ken hadnt told anything to Wendy about why he got caught in the
situation he was in because he didnt feel it was necessary. Brant
picks real winners, doesnt he? Or did she think you were Brant?
No, she knew I wasnt Brant
, Ken answered turning toward
her when he felt her hands pressing in over his shoulders and he cleared his
throat uneasily. We were just talking and she had a misunderstanding.
Thats all. Nothing really important worth going back into the conversation
for. Its done.
But youre in pain, she sighed finally reaching out to him
to place her hands over his shoulders soothingly. Giving them a small squeeze,
she shrugged and thought about what she knew about Angela. I mean if
I have to talk to her about things to set them straight.
No! Ken cut her off abruptly knowing that he didnt want
her talking to Angela about anything that had to do with him. Especially knowing
that Angela knew some things that he would never want Wendy to hear. She saw
this good side of him, the things that he didnt think he
had anymore, but she saw them and he didnt want that to change. Dont
talk to her, its not worth your time.
Why are you so nervous about me talking to her? If the two of you had
a disagreement, maybe I can fix things, she suggested knowing that by
the expression on Kens face, he just wasnt ready for that. Im
just trying to be a good girlfriend, thats what we do. Stand up for
the men we love.
There is nothing to stand up for, she is Brants girl which means
she is his problem. He will take care of whatever is wrong with her, Im
not holding it against her
not right now, he explained with a heavy
sigh knowing the reasons of Angelas attack on him last night, but he
wasnt ready to open up as to why she did it. I wouldnt be
the happiest person in the world either if I was stuck with Brant.
Hey, thats not very nice, she smirked knowing that Ken was
amused with himself, but she hoped he really didnt feel that way considering
he now had a niece and nephew tied to that woman. You should probably
learn to get along with her soon though, she is going to be part of this family
for a very long time.
Yeah, I know, he huffed thinking about the family as it was already
and he didnt even like them now, so what was another person added to
the family that he didnt even care for. I guess Im used
to having whack jobs in the family, so its really no big deal to me.
I get that, she seemed to be itching to ask him something, but
didnt get it out just then. When he moved back toward the closet to
get ready for work, she sat down on the bottom of the bed and cleared her
throat uneasily. So why would she even react that way? She say why she
was upset?
Wendy
I told you it doesnt really matter, Ken tried
to explain again knowing that he didnt want to get into the situation
any further than she already knew. The fact she knew Angela kicked him was
more than he hoped for. Now that she had her thoughts on it, he was worried
of where she was going to take it. Please Wendy, just leave it be. Its
nothing and I dont really want to get into this.
Why are you getting so upset over this? she seemed to be a bit
offended by the way he was acting. Moving out of the walk-in closet, Ken stepped
before her and grabbed a tight hold of her hands. Ken, is something
really wrong?
Everything is fine sweetheart, I just dont want to start something
with Brant. Hes left me alone thus far, I dont want things to
start up again by you talking to Angela about things that are done and over
with, Ken spoke in a more polite, calm tone knowing that the way he
was snapping would only continue to intrigue her more with the situation.
I hope you understand that and stick to my wishes. Weve had our
great deal of fights and I dont want it to continue. So please?
Alright
, she finally agreed to what he wanted, but still
found herself lost on why he wouldnt at least tell her what happened.
She would just have to let it go and not even bother with thinking about it,
but she wished he would be more open with her. I at least hope you have
a better day at work. I know yesterday was a bit tough on you.
Yeah, I hope so too
, he moved away again to go get ready
knowing he wanted to be there a bit early. Are you sure you are going
to be alright today while Im gone? I dont really want you over
working yourself while Im gone.
Ill be fine, Wendy tried to assure him as he stepped toward
the door ready to leave. Moving to him, she tipped up on her toes and pressed
a quick kiss over his lips. Goodbye Ken.
Just
try to avoid Angela if you see her. As I said, no point in
opening old wounds, Ken ordered of her one last time knowing that it
was still fresh in the mind since it was yesterday, a few hours before now.
He just didnt care for her to find out anything about it. Ill
see you later.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Turning on his back, Don stared up at the ceiling from where he was laying
on the couch in the living room. He hardly slept last night, he was finding
it hard to focus on sleeping when all he could think about was the anger he
had built up inside.
Normally he would try his hardest to keep his mouth closed. To take whatever
Shannon had to throw at him, but after all the things he had to endear while
away made him not accept all the bullshit she was trying to throw at him.
This relationship never seemed to go anywhere in a positive way, it always
seemed to go down south. All the fighting, all the arguing, he was sick of
it. He hated the feeling he had built up right now, he never wanted to feel
that toward someone. Especially the woman that he was married to. This wasnt
how it was supposed to be.
Curling his arms behind his head, the thoughts of where the future was to lead him crossed his mind. This was all he saw in the future and he wasnt quite sure this was what he wanted. To always sit back and wait for her to yell at him for all the things he kept doing wrong. Was there anything that she actually considered right or good from him?
The sound of one of the doors opening made him raise his head up from the
couch to see which one it was waking up and he saw his son walking down the
hallway with his bag over his shoulder.
Hey dad, Matt waved setting his bag down at the bottom of the
couch while his father moved up slowly. He could hear the sounds of Dons
back cracking while he sat up and stretched making him sigh. Let me
guess
Shannon threw you out of the room again?
Actually, Dons voice came out raw and he now realized just
how much his couch made his back ache. Groaning, he stretched his arms out
toward his son to get a hug from him. I decided to stay out here for
the night.
Which means she was fighting with you again, Matt sighed releasing
his father as he moved toward the kitchen. Tell me what else is new.
She never is going to change dad. I dont know why you keep giving her
chances.
Thats what you do when youre married, you know that
,
Don reached down to pick Matt up and set him on the counter. Grabbing two
glasses for their morning orange juice, Don sighed and rubbed at his own eyes.
We will work things out, she is my wife. Thats what we are supposed
to do.
Cant you find a better one? Or maybe we can trade her in?
Matt suggested knowing how much he disliked Shannon with the way she treated
both him and Don. She was nothing like he would have imagined a mother figure
to be. I love you dad, but she is the biggest mistake you ever made.
Thats not nice, Don let out a half laugh handing his son
the orange juice he poured for him. She has her hard days, but there
are things that are really great about her. Things that keep me with her,
you know that.
And whats that? Matt eyed his father over and instead of
answering Dons eyebrows perked up before taking a drink. Thats
what I thought. You cant think of anything because there is nothing
that is good about her.
I can think of things, Im just not happy with her right now. It
clouds my mind, Don explained with a half smirk knowing that his comment
amused his son, but right now he truly couldnt think. She did just fight
with him and he had been up all night. So he wouldnt be thinking right
anyways. She has days where she is nice.
Thats EXTREMELY rare, Matt reminded his father reaching
his arms out so Don could help him down from the counter. Once he hit the
floor, he moved back for his bag pulling out a few things. I think there
should be something done in making her nicer. Shes too mean.
I know
, Don noticed his son seemed to be packing up to leave.
Rubbing his hand over the back of his neck, he cleared his throat uneasily.
Where you going bud?
You dont remember? Matt huffed knowing by the glance that
Don gave him, he had no idea. Grandpa is coming to pick me up because
they have a wrestling event coming to town. My favorite is going to be there,
remember, he called them into town for me as a personal favor?
He told you all of that, huh? Don laughed picking his son up in
his arms holding him close to his chest as Matt smiled and nodded. Well,
I hope you have fun then. No wonder you were up and ready this morning. Someone
is excited.
Well you would be too if that actress that you have been crushing on
for years came into town and you had a chance to meet her. Or if Christian
Bale came into town, I think you would have a heart attack, Matt pointed
out with a wide eyed expression before laughing. Why you like his version
of Batman, Ill never know.
He does a good job, Don frowned feeling Matt playfully poke him
in the shoulder. But I do get your point. I hope you have a good time
little guy.
Yeah, hopefully you have a good day and dont get torn to shreds,
Matt huffed knowing that his father was often yelled at by Shannon and he
hated it. Rolling his eyes at the very thought, he took in a deep breath and
shrugged. I still wonder why you are with her. You should at least learn
to stand up for yourself.
I know, we need to have a really long talk and hopefully it changes
something, Don agreed and he could tell by the look on Matts face
he either didnt believe they would have a talk or that Shannon
would never change. Both were probably right, but before they could talk any
further about it Don heard the sound of his fathers horn outside. I
guess you need to get going.
Yes, I do, he boasted proudly squeezing his arms around Dons
shoulders tightly before quickly getting out of his arms running toward the
door. Its going to be a great day.
Be careful, Don called out watching Matt jump into the car with
his father and while he stood there watching them drive away he realized that
Matt was right. He couldnt keep taking her stuff like this. She had
to be changed, they had to have a talk. He couldnt constantly live his
life like this. Not at all. Alright.
Marching into the bedroom, he was surprised to find the door unlocked, but
thankful that he wouldnt have any troubles in coaxing her to open the
door to talk to him.
Shannon? Don looked around the room noticing that the bed was
still a mess, but before he could clearly think where she would be he heard
the sounds of her getting sick in the bathroom. Hey?
Moving into the room he saw her on the floor leaning over the toilet getting
sick and he got to his knees behind her. Rubbing his hands in over her shoulders
he suddenly felt guilty seeing her sick like this.
You alright? he heard her let out a few pained noises and he realized
that talk he was planning on having with her right now was going
to have to be postponed now that she was getting sick.
Maybe it was for the best that this happened, stopping him from doing something
that he would probably regret in the long run.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I thought I told you to leave Blake alone for a while, Rex chastised
after he heard the sound of Gillian locking herself in the bathroom. Moving
over to the door he tapped on it lightly before letting out a long sigh, I
told you that she needed some rest before I got you in to see her.
No Rex, she threw the door open and glared up at him, her eyes
narrowing with agitation, You told me last night that you would let
me get an exclusive with her--just like you promised me an exclusive with
Seth, but as with the situation with Seth, you fell flat.
Gillian wait, he felt the door slam in his face again and he frowned.
I told you that you could get the story, I just didnt say when.
Exclusive generally means that it will happen before the rest of the
news world gets their hands on it, she snarled from behind the thick
wooden door. The only reason I agreed to come back here with you last
night was because you promised me an opportunity to let Blakes voice
be heard.
And youll still get that, but right now we need to talk,
Rex frowned moving around to take a seat on the bed before pausing. He shook
his head and threw his hands in the air before raising his voice ever so slightly,
Which is something that we cant do with you locked in there.
Do you have any idea what Ive been through with this family?
she questioned in an accusatory tone marching out of the bathroom in her bra
and the skirt shed been wearing the previous evening. I worked
my ass off to prove to the world that I wasnt just another one of Brants
bimbos and then you bring me back here for sex and refuse to give me what
you promised me.
I thought I gave you a lot more than what I promised you last night,
Rex grinned up at her sheepishly, I thought things were phenomenal when
we hit the sheets so to speak. Then again Im always incredible regardless
of the woman thats with me.
Gillian rolled her eyes, You werent that great and neither was
my having Brant keep me from seeing Blake. You owe me an interview Rex!
Look Gillian, Im telling you that right now is not the time,
he frowned up at her watching her cross the room in search of her blouse.
What are you doing?
Im leaving, she explained bending down to yank her shirt
up off of the floor. She turned around to face him with a glare before sliding
her arm into her shirt sleeve. Obviously youre not going to help
me, so Ill have to find my own way to get my story.
Hey now I promised you a story, but right now things are complicated,
Rex stood up and moved in beside her. He reached out to slide his arm around
her waist before drawing her in nearer to him. I just need to smooth
the waters over with Brant first.
Brants not going to listen to you. He is set on hating me because
of that piece I wrote a while ago. It was a true and honest report so I dont
see why hes so upset about it, she scoffed thinking about her
former lovers agitation. I mean its not like we had anything
special together to begin with.
Gilly, hes just not happy youre here because hes got
that Hot Mama with him and probably does not want the distraction on top of
anything else, Rex paused a thoughtful smirk carrying over him. Then
again if I had that Hot Mama with me too I probably wouldnt have had
the time to argue with you like he did. That woman would be on my mind twenty
four seven and then some.
Okay, thats it, she threw her hands in the air again, Im
really leaving now.
Look Gilly, all Im saying is that you have to be patient with
Brant. He just needs to see that doing this story would be whats best
for him, he snaked his arm tighter around her waist. He dropped his
lips down over the side of her neck before whispering in her ear. He
just needs to be warmed up to the idea.
Hes ice cold and he wont budge, she sighed dropping
her head back as he continued to shower her skin with kisses. She felt his
hand slide in beneath her blouse before her eyes met his again, Rex,
Im serious about this one. You and I made a deal.
And Ill live up to my end of it, he assured her moving in
to steal a quick kiss from her. Remember last night was only part of
the arrangement.
Ive already spoken with my father and he wants to set up a meeting,
she informed him with a soft sigh before meeting his eyes again, Ill
say the word and hell do what you want, but if you screw me over Rex
Im not going to do that. You know what I want and Im not
going to let anything get in my way, Rex informed her point blank a
sudden determination in his tone. He reached out to touch her cheek before
his free hand tapered off over her hip, You just have to learn not to
let my nephew get your panties in a bunch so readily.
Brant has no effect on my panties anymore, she wrinkled her nose
at him as her frown intensified. He isnt even a blip on my radar.
Good, then you let me deal with Brant and if you play by my rules, then
Ill get you your story, he leaned in to kiss her once again, Deal?
Only if you promise to follow through on it, she mouthed in a
warning tone her eyes weary and untrusting of him.
Ill work on it and Brant too, but first, why dont we pick
up where we left off
he suggested lazily reaching out to push
the material of her blouse from her shoulders.
As much as Im certain youd enjoy that, I have work to do,
she shook her head and stepped back just enough to button up her blouse. Their
eyes met again and she took in a small breath. You can call me later
though and well work out the details of my story and our arrangement.
Maybe a little bit later well see things a bit clearer.
Itll give me time to work on Brant, he decided with a nod
watching her finish with putting her clothes on, though remember you
cant push too hard or itll never work.
If it doesnt work, then neither does your plan, she warned
wiggling her finger at him before giving him one last look. Dont
screw me over Rex because if you even think about trying it youll find
that youre very unhappy with the outcome. Mark my words on that.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Ken looked up at the bookshelf to the left of his desk and frowned. There
in the middle of the shelf was a photo of him and Wendy in Paris--a photo
that mightve been something of a good memory if it wasnt for his
damned Uncle Rex getting in the way. Of course things only got worse when
hes returned to Coral Valley and discovered his brother and Angela in
the house again. While hed never pieced it together that Angela would
have half a brain since everything about her oozed with being a second rate
Avery, nothing had prepared him for her attack on him the previous evening.
Even now he could feel the pain of the moment lingering over him. Come to
think of it, the more he remembered the moment, the less he found himself
liking Angela.
Hey Ken, Carlys voice called out to him catching him completely
off guard.
He spun around in his chair to see her standing in the doorway wearing a beige
colored blouse and a brown pleated skirt that have her a professional, yet
surprisingly sexy look. He noticed a couple of the buttons on the blouse were
undone near the top and he spotted that she was wearing a gold charm necklace
around her neck that only flattered her curves. It was then that hed
dismissed the thought of worrying about Angela and opted to focus on his former
lover instead.
She smiled at him briefly before nodding, Do you have a minute?
For you I have all the time in the world, he replied leaning back
in his chair and bringing his arms back over his head. He couldnt help
but steal a glance at her legs remembering only too well what it was like
to have them around him when theyd made love in the past. Even now he
couldnt help but wonder what it wouldve been like if she hadnt
freaked out and walked away from him. The fact that hed slept with Avery
had only served as means to an end in a situation with Brant, but in the process
it killed his chances at something with Carly, which was a true tragedy indeed.
Thanks, she wrinkled her nose a bit at him before moving in to
take a seat across from him in one of the chairs beyond his desk, I
dont mean to bother you but I thought maybe we could talk about the
Henderson case a little bit. Midland has finally reassigned a new council
and
We need to get back on that, Ken nodded in response thinking about
the promise hed made to the Henderson family. Guilt tugged at him before
he turned to Carly once again, I suppose I should call Jay and Kelly
and
I already took care of that. Though they were worried about you,
Carly admitted eyeing him intently before pausing, which proves that
Im not the only one. Ken is something wrong?
You mean other than everything? he replied with a small laugh
before shaking his head and sighing.
That sounds rather vague, she noted seeing something pass behind
his dark eyes, Whats going on?
Well for starters Wendy is dying, Ken tossed out at her with a
frown thinking about everything that was happening in his life beyond work,
My Uncle Rex has decided that he wants to woo her however and Wendy
thinks hes charming.
Really? Carly arched a curious brow before offering up a small
laugh, Gee, she doesnt know him very well, does she?
No, not really, which makes things increasingly difficult. Ive
been agitated lately and, he paused glancing over at her once again
before revealing a surprising bout of honesty, and in between my frustrations
with Rex and everything else Ive been doing some pretty awful things
again.
Awful things, she replied not really sure what he was saying to
her.
Yeah, you know youd think I wouldve learned my lesson after
I lost you, but instead I keep sabotaging myself over and over again,
he stood up pacing around the office before turning to look out the window
for a brief moment. I guess you could say I never got over whats
gone down with Brant and I. I just hate that hes happy with everything
he wants while I have to fight to hold onto anything good in my life.
Ken it might feel that way now, but thats not entirely the case.
I mean your brother has fought for a great many things as well. Neither one
of you have it easy, Carly tossed out at him with a supportive tone,
Youve both had to endure so much.
Yes, but I cant get over the fact that he really seems to have
it all, he replied turning around to face her again with an ironic laugh.
Did you know that when Angela had amnesia I took it upon myself to kiss
Avery in front of her to make her think that Brant was stepping out on her?
To make her so hurt she would leave him just like I felt like everyone left
me in my life?
Ken, why would you
her dark eyes widened in surprise watching
him throw his hands up in the air.
Because Im hurt damn it and no one cares. No one has any idea
what Ive lost--what Ive gone through, Ken crossed the room
making his way over to the couch and taking a seat on it. He buried his head
in his hands and let out a long sigh, No one has any idea what it was
like watching the woman you love be buried right in front of you--to see what
its like to have the other woman you love fading away right before your
very eyes while the other one you want is just out of your reach still so
very close, yet so far away day in and day out.
Ken, Wendy is right there, Carly moved over beside him taking
a seat on the sofa. She placed her hand gently on his leg before offering
up a small sigh, She needs you and you need her too, but before you
can fully be there you need to let go of all this anger youre feeling
for Brant. If you dont stop wanting to make the world around you suffer
the only thing youre going to do is bring yourself misery. Youre
going to hurt yourself far worse if you dont stop this.
I dont think that I can anymore Carly, he replied tipping
his head to the side and watching her closely. Its like from the
moment Susan drugged me I havent been myself anymore. The drugs gave
me an excuse for my actions, but now whatever she started inside of me, I
cant stop it.
Yes you can, she reached out to squeeze his hand gently, Ken,
I know that youre a good man with a kind heart, but you have to stop
feeding into your rage. You need to stop hurting people like youre doing.
Just because Brant has Angela does not mean that hes trying to destroy
you.
Its more than that, Ken shook his head and let out a small
laugh, The funny thing is that I havent been able to tell anyone
about any of it except for you.
Maybe its because you were hoping to clear your conscious and
start anew, she suggested with a worried expression. Maybe by
telling me about this youre looking for the guidance to help you move
beyond the anger and the hurt.
I dont know if its that simple, he paused dropping
his head back on the sofa before turning to look at her once again, Carly,
Ive done a lot of horrible things.
Im not going to pretend that I dont think that is true because
I know better, she replied with a tiny shiver overtaking her. She closed
her eyes for a brief moment remembering what shed learned about Ken
and Avery, but not all of it was you. However, for the part that was
maybe it is time to step up and be held accountable for your actions. Maybe
its time you learned to be a man and just do what is right like I know
you were once capable of doing.
I dont even know whats right anymore, he admitted
with a raw honesty before sitting up straighter. I havent been
right in a long time and dealing with Brant and all the women in his life
proves that.
So stop dwelling on Brant and start thinking about whats best
for you Ken. Stop trying to cause someone misery when we both know it wont
give you back what youre missing out on in your life. It wont
take away the loss and it wont make you any happier. Trust me on this
one, she reminded him seeing so much happening behind his dark eyes.
I do, the first hints of a smile cracked over his lips, Youre
one of the only people in this world that I can be myself with. You see me
flaws and all, yet you havent gone running in the other direction yet.
Sometimes you baffle me, but were friends Ken and friends dont
turn their back on other friends, she patted his leg once again only
to feel his fingers press in over hers. She felt a breath catch in her throat
as he laced their fingers in one another.
I think it runs deeper than that Carly, he squeezed her hand again,
his eyes fixed on her soft, full lips, Weve always had more than
friendship between us.
Ken I, she paused feeling her heart hammering in her chest before
she pushed away from him. She stood up and began to pace around the room before
turning to him again, You know I think everyone is just under tremendous
stress lately. I mean take Dave for example. With Cori getting out of the
hospital and Jewel being in town
Jewel? Kens brow perked up at the mention of Daves
sister. When did she get back?
Not so long ago, but between the two of them, I think they are driving
Dave crazy with their fighting. Then toss Stacy into the mix and its
like a world war at our house, Carly offered up with a nervous laugh,
Of course you cant totally blame Stacy for how she is feeling
considering that Jewel and Paul havent exactly been stand up parents
with her
Paul is back too, Ken couldnt help but find himself amused
when Carly nodded. No wonder Dave is losing his mind. Paul would do
me in as well.
Even so I think that maybe the whole point in all of this is that family
can drive you mad sometimes, but in the same respect they are something that
we need in our lives. Sometimes chaos and upset can spin itself around into
something wonderful, she explained clearing her throat again, Maybe
its time you take a step back and really look at the things that you
have in your life Ken instead of focusing on the things that you dont
have.
Its easier to see the negative especially when the positive is
far and few, he confessed watching her move over towards the office
door. He stood up and walked over to her unable to contain the thought that
prompted him to be near her. Reaching out to bring his arm out over the doorframe
to prevent her from leaving, he met her eyes again, Dont you ever
wonder?
About? she questioned feigning an innocence even though his eyes
spoke volumes about where his heart and mind were in the moment.
Us, he couldnt help but ask inching in closer to her. He
reached out to touch a loose strand of her dark hair that was curled just
in front of her ear. His gaze dropped down to her lips again before he revealed
a lazy smirk, about the way that things turned out for us?
Ken, we were just two people looking for a shoulder to cry on and we
took it too far, she reminded him clearing her throat again. She stood
up taller and met his dark eyes, Thats all it was.
Was it? he mused allowing his fingers to fall to the side of her
face again. Because I have to tell you Carly that there isnt a
moment that passes by where I dont wonder about what it wouldve
been like if you and I had wound up together instead of you and Dave.
Dont say that Ken, she shook her head refusing to let him
get sentimental about their past with one another, You never loved me.
We both know that.
You only think you know that, but youd be wrong, he offered
up leaning in closer to her despite her uneasiness. His fingers fanned around
the back of her neck commanding her attention as he leaned in closer to her,
lips hovering in over hers. His brown eyes memorized the lines of her face,
tracing every inch of her with his stare. The fact to the matter is
that youre undoubtedly the only woman that has made me feel anything
in a long time Carly.
Ken dont, Carly pressed her palm out into the center of
his chest to place a distance between them. She felt his hand drop down to
caress her jaw, fingers fanning out over the side of her face before sliding
into her hair.
Its the truth, he sighed tipping his head in closer to her,
the warmth of his breath pressing in over her, Youre the only
woman who has made me feel alive in a long time.
Ken, you love Wendy, she whispered closing her eyes tightly and
wishing that he would just leave now that hed gotten too close for comfort.
She wanted to push him away, yet feared any further contact between them would
only encourage his behavior.
I loved Wendy and a part of me will always love Wendy, he breathed
against the side of her neck watching her turn her head away from him just
enough to take in a breath of her own, but Ill always crave only
you.
Ken stop, her eyes snapped open just as she felt his lips about
to descend upon her skin. She pushed her hand into the middle of his chest
sending him away from her in surprise. She watched him try to regain his balance
as she took in a heavy breath of her own. Listen I know that things
dont feel like they are working out in your life right now, but this
is not the answer. We will never be the solution to any of your problems.
Because of Dave? he challenged watching her with a wounded expression.
No because I dont love you Ken. I never did, she informed
him with a sudden seriousness in her tone. Ken, Im sorry to have
to say it, but the only reason we were together was because Dave and I were
on the outs with one another. Dont get me wrong youre a good friend
to me, but it never shouldve crossed that line that it did between us.
Carly, you dont mean that and I for one dont believe it
either, he challenged searching her eyes for a long moment.
Well you should Ken because its the truth. Im sorry if it
hurts, but thats honestly how I feel, she replied giving him one
last look before turning to leave his office.
Ill bet you wouldnt feel that way if I was Kaylas
father instead of Dave, he tossed out at her causing her to stop moving
long enough to turn around and face him again.
What did you just say? she questioned blinking back at him, doing
her best to try to mask the surprise his comment had elicited inside of her.
If Kayla was my daughter you wouldnt even think twice about submitting
to a boring life with Dave when the fact to the matter is that you wanted
me then and you still want me now just like I want you, Ken challenged
making a small movement towards her, his dark eyes narrowing down at her.
Admit it Carly, if Kayla was mine you know damn well wed still
be together right now and maybe thats really what the issue is between
us right now. Maybe thats why youre so desperately trying to push
me away because deep down you know full well that she could be mine as well
instead of Daves.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Ms. Forbes, I really wish you would reconsider, the driver explained
opening the door to the limo and letting Wendy out from inside. You
really should be resting.
Ive had more than enough rest for a lifetime, Wendy snubbed
her nose at him before looking to the store front before her. Right
now I want to take an hour or so and forget about being sick long enough to
enjoy life. Is that a crime?
Of course it isnt, but if Mr. Ashford knew that
the
driver began again with a worried expression.
Mr. Ashford will be fine with this. I have a few surprises that I want
to get in store for him and when I am finished I will call for you,
she explained adjusting her sunglasses before turning to the building once
again. Now if youll excuse me
I really wish that youd reconsider, the driver attempted
to appeal to her once more, but it fell upon deaf ears once Wendy stepped
into the store in front of her ready to begin her shopping expedition.
She couldnt help but smile once she was out of the suns bright
rays and into the store that surrounded her with sounds of the Christmas season
even though the holiday was no where near around the corner. It was one of
the few things that shed loved about this store in particular because
it brought life to Christmas all year long in between the animated figurines
that danced and moved around the shop to the special hand crafted ornaments
that donned over various oversized Christmas trees around the store. This
was the one place in Coral Valley that shed found shed missed
the most in her time away. It was always something shed thought very
fondly of and now that Ken was at work, she vowed to take the time to indulge
in the simple pleasures it provided her with.
Smiling Wendy reached for a small hand held shopping basket in the hopes that
it would assist her with her special plans for Ken. Even though he had no
idea what she was up to, the fact to the matter was that shed been thinking
about this special night for a long time. Certainly their trip to Paris was
nice, but with this particular surprise she was hoping to bring about something
even better. With that thought in mind Wendy moved forward to the center of
the store ready to immerse herself in the atmosphere completely.
Where to start, she paused taking in her surroundings and plotting
out her game plan while she looked at the tree in front of her. It had to
be at least thirty feet with gold and silver branches that were covered in
lights and ornaments. Smiling she was reminded of what Christmas was like for
her when she was younger, back with her family when she and Ken had first
started dating. This tree much like the store had her thinking about happier
times, about what it was like before chaos entered her life with the disease.
Personally I would start by Santas Workshop, a voice mouthed
from behind her causing her to gasp. She clenched onto the basket in her hand
even tighter before turning around to see a dark haired man smiling down at
her.
I dont know about your personal preference, but Ive always
been fond of Santas workshop or even the reindeer stables, he
explained smiling down at her with a warm, welcoming grin. Call me crazy
but it always makes me feel like Im seven years old again and all is
right in the world.
She couldnt help but laugh, Those are my favorites too and for
the same reasons actually.
A woman after my own heart, he smiled down at her, a warmth radiating
over him with the words. He offered his hand out to her and his grin expanded,
Hi, Im Cameron.
Hi Cameron, she stretched her hand out as well, Im
Wendy.
Well Wendy it is a pleasure meeting you in here, he motioned to
the shopping basket hed had in his hand as well, Though I must
admit its very rare for me to run into someone as beautiful as you are
with similar interests in this place. Around this time of year things are
a bit slow in the Christmas Store.
Which is why I love shopping here this time of year even more,
she divulged with a wide grin and a simple shrug of her shoulders, That
way you dont have to fight off a mad crowd to get what you want. Plus
it gives you time to appreciate what it is that youre here for in the
first place and that is to just admire the view.
I couldnt agree more, he nodded back at her before smiling
wider. Come to think of it, I have to say it isnt every day that
I am able to enjoy a quiet stroll around the store with someone as beautiful
as yourself. So with that thought in mind, would you care to join me on my
journey to the reindeer stables?
Well I dont know if
Wendy began with a slight hesitation.
I promise with Santa around watching I wont be naughty this time
if you join me. Only nice, he nodded towards the oversized animated
figuring set up on a sleigh with tiny elves offering up presents to him. The
movement continued as Santa seemed to be loading his sleigh for the holiday
season. So what do you say?
Well since you wouldnt want to risk a lump of coal by misbehaving,
I think its okay to trust you just this once, Wendy held her hand
up in the air in warning, but I must inform you if you are even remotely
close to being naughty, then Im afraid the elves will have to revoke
your Christmas rights.
Ouch, he brought his hand up over his chest before feigning being
wounded, that hurt. Do you think so little of me after only knowing
me for a few seconds?
Life has taught me to be skeptical of handsome strangers who are inviting
me out to the stables on our first meeting, she couldnt help but
tease as her gaze dropped down to the basket in his hand. She noticed a couple
of ornaments in his basket, one pink with silver writing and sparkles over
it and the other blue with the same matching sparkles. Raising a curious brow
she noticed the writing on it before meeting his eyes again, Babys
First Christmas? Shopping for Cameron Jr.?
On the contrary Im shopping for my sisters children,
he reached into his basket and pulled out one of the ornaments. She
just had twins, a boy and a girl and I thought that maybe now would be the
time to get ahead with them since its not every day I become an uncle.
How thoughtful of you, she smiled warmly in response moving her
fingers out to take a look at the ornament he was holding out for her inspection.
Do you think they will like them? he questioned handing the ornament
to her.
Hmm, well it does have a certain sense of the Christmas spirit to it,
she reached for it pretending to scrutinize the ornament for a long moment,
and it is certainly eye catching, but if you say she just had the twins
then Im not sure if the glitter on it would be a good idea
I was also thinking about picking out a couple of reindeer for them
as well, he couldnt help but add nodding over to where theyd
started walking towards the stable area that was set up. I know my sister
is probably going to wonder where in the world shell put them all year
long, but Im sure the twins will love them when Christmas rolls around.
Theyll make great holiday photos, Wendy admitted moving
forward to nod over toward the oversized lifelike reindeer in front of her,
Ive always liked Rudolph the best myself.
And why is that? Cameron questioned watching her move forward
to press her finger over Rudolphs red nose that lit up with the movement.
Hi, Im Rudolph and Im here to say Merry Christmas to you,
the animated reindeer spoke up in a bright and cheery tone.
Never mind, I dont think I need to ask, Cameron laughed
lightly watching Wendy interact with the reindeer.
Oh you havent seen anything yet, she held her finger up
in the air before setting her shopping basket down. She moved in closer to
Rudolph and scratched under his chin lightly, Hi Im Wendy.
Hi Wendy, Rudolph piped in gleefully before moving his head back
and forth, would you like to sing a Christmas Carol with me?
I would love to Rudolph, but first I would like you to say hello to
my friend Cameron, Wendy explained as the reindeer turned its
head towards Cameron and its wide eyes blinked at him.
Hi Cameron. Would you like to sing a Christmas carol? Rudolph
asked again with the same upbeat enthusiasm that hed had with Wendy.
How did he
? Cameron couldnt help but ask turning to
Wendy once again.
Just answer him, she nudged at his ribs before looking to Rudolph,
who was still focused on Cameron with an expectant expression.
I just
well, I dont really sing Christmas carols considering
that
Cameron started again only to feel Wendy nudge him in the
ribs.
We would love to sing with you Rudolph, Wendy blurted out with
a genuine warmth in her tone.
Great, then lets sing Jingle Bells, Rudolph squealed with
delight before starting an offbeat rendition of the old favorite.
Come on Cameron. We have to join him, Wendy urged Cameron on now
that he was lost in silent amusement.
Im really bad at this. I cant carry a tune, he tried
to get her to give him an out only to see her wrinkle her brow at him.
I doubt that, she attempted to persuade him again, Come
on it doesnt matter. No one else is here to hear us.
Im really tone deaf. It would be awful, he protested again
only to feel her fingers curl over his arm gently.
Im sure its not that bad. Come on its just one song,
she urged him on further.
No, I really cant, he shook his head in refusal only to
feel her nudge him again.
Yes you can. You really can, she insisted before looking to Rudolph
once again and singing along to the music.
After a few reluctant seconds he finally gave in and joined her in singing
a few rounds of Jingle Bells followed by Frosty the Snowman. Before he knew
it they were five songs into the Christmas caroling with Rudolph before the
light on the reindeers nose turned off and he closed his eyes letting
out a small yawn.
Thank you for singing with me. Ill be back later, Rudolph
promised with another yawn before a snoring sound followed.
See that wasnt so bad, Wendy explained brightly now focusing
on Cameron with wide eyes. And for the record you were only partially
tone deaf. It wasnt so bad Ill need to get earplugs next time.
Ill brush up my skills if you promise me there will be a next
time, he stepped in closer to her noticing the rosy color in her cheeks.
Unable to refrain from offering up a genuine smile he reached out towards
her seeing her eyes widen with the movement. A second later he extracted a
piece of tinsel from her hair. I think you picked that up on the walk
over.
Oh, she felt a blush carry over her before she turned to Rudolph
again, well as you can see hes full of entertainment.
Ill admit hes amusing, Cameron conceded watching her
perusing the other reindeers before settling back in on Rudolph again.
The others are nice, but hes always been my favorite, she
explained petting Rudolphs head once again. The reindeer opened his
eyes before letting out another yawn.
Yeah, hes pretty incredible, Cameron nodded in agreement
seeing the way Wendy seemed to light up beside the reindeer. Im
surprised you havent snagged him up for yourself already.
I didnt exactly have the room in my old apartment here and then
when I moved back to town, well its not like Im living in my own
home. Im living with my boyfriend right now and Im not exactly
planning for anything long term, she replied seeing the way that Cameron
arched an interested brow. I mean not because I dont love him
because I do, but
He doesnt sound like hes all that important if youre
not planning for a future with him, Cameron noted taking a small step
towards her, which indicates to me that maybe Rudolph still has a chance
with you elsewhere maybe without the boyfriend.
Rudolph is nice enough and all, but I really dont have any long
term commitments open in my life at the moment beyond what I already have.
Im trying not to think too far ahead, she paused before looking
to Rudolph again, Though he could use a good home. Hes a lot of
fun and I think that your niece and nephew might enjoy him for years down
the road.
Undoubtedly, he replied not so much interested in the reindeer
as he was with her now that hed spent a few minutes speaking with her
and enjoying her company. It is pretty amazing.
See I told you this was one of the best things they had here at this
point, Wendy explained tipping her head to the side once more and seeing
the way that his dark eyes were upon her and not Rudolph.
I think Ive already found the best thing there is in the store
the moment I walked in and found you standing by the tree, Cameron explained
boldly reaching out to touch her hand gently now that it was still on top
of Rudolphs head. Have dinner with me.
What? her brown eyes widened with surprise before she shook her
head, No Im afraid I cant. I dont mean to be rude
or offer up mixed signals, but Im seeing someone and
I know, he nodded in response, the boyfriend that clearly
isnt worth thinking about keeping around long term. I realize that this
is rather sudden, but maybe since youve been so willing to help me pick
out the reindeer for my niece and nephew then maybe youd be willing
to help me pull the surprise together for them when everything is said and
done.
Im flattered that you would think to include me in bringing Rudolph
to his new home, but
she attempted to recline his offer again.
Wendy, Ill be honest with you when I tell you that seeing you
in here was the bright spot in my day, he kept his fingers over hers
noticing that shed made no attempt at pulling away from him much to
his surprise, I wouldve said just about anything to have you spend
a minute with me.
So then the whole story about the niece and nephew was a fabrication?
she questioned curiously not quite sure how to take his statement.
On the contrary that was very real, but if you dont say yes to
dinner, then I swear Ill show you just how awful I can be at singing,
Cameron stepped back and brought his hand over his chest, Dont
say I didnt warn you.
Cameron really I cant, Wendy felt a heat rise over her features
as she watched him set the shopping basket down. He circled around her before
leaning in to whisper over her shoulder.
Last chance to say yes, he tempted her before she shook her head
in refusal.
Cameron I really cant, Wendy blurted out once more feeling
an embarrassment carry over her when he walked over to one of the counters
near the end of the room. There was a woman at the cash register looking interested
in what they were doing, but it wasnt until Cameron leaned forward and
whispered in the womans ear that Wendy felt worried about what was next.
I dont want a lot for Christmas. Theres just one thing I
need. I dont care about the presents underneath the Christmas tree,
Camerons off key voice flooded the store causing Wendy to practically
jump out of her skin. She spotted that hed had the tiny microphone that
the woman had beside her cash register now in his hand. I just want
you for my own more than you could ever know. Make my wish come true. All
I want for Christmas is you.
Looking around again Wendy realized that there were a few other people in
the store and suddenly she felt as if the spotlight was focused on her. Snapping
her gaze to Cameron again, she realized hed carefully positioned himself
on top of the conveyer belt beside the cash register and was standing over
it, hovering over the rest of the stores patrons.
Excuse me everyone, but my name is Cameron and I would like to direct
your attention to this beautiful woman over here. Her name is Wendy and Id
really like to convince her to go out with me, so if you could all join me
in my serenade I would really appreciate it, Cameron explained as a
few of the curious patrons joined him. He pointed over at one who was still
standing over in the corner and smiled. Yes that means you too. Id
like everyone to help me out because something tells me Im going to
need a lot of backup on this one.
Cameron get down, Wendy cursed under her breath at him marching
forward in an attempt to shield her from any further embarrassment, Get
down now.
Not until you say yes to dinner, he whispered with a wicked smirk
causing her to glare at him.
Your insane. I hope you realize that, she huffed in response seeing
the crowd that had surrounded them. She watched in horror as Cameron stood
up once again and motioned to the crowd.
Hey everyone, I hope that everyone can help me out. Of course Im
sure the song I was singing before isnt familiar for everyone, but for
those of you who know it, give me a hand. For everyone else, he paused
flashing a smile over at Wendy before winking, lets just wing
it okay.
Cameron please, Wendy blurted out again watching him start up
again with his singing. He continued to belt out the melody in an off key
cracked voice that would make anyone under normal conditions hoot and holler
in protest, but now that hed managed to work over the crowd, she found
that the people that surrounded her clapped and cheered him on with heavy
encouragement. She felt one woman nudge her shoulder gently before whispering
in her ear.
Hes a keeper sweetheart. Say yes, the woman encouraged Wendy
as Cameron finished with a solemn seriousness in his tone, his dark eyes focused
entirely on Wendy.
All I want for Christmas is you baby, he finished holding his
microphone in the air to a round of hefty applause now that hed managed
to win over the customers in the store. He tipped his head to the side and
winked at Wendy again, So what do you say? Will you have dinner with
me?
Im almost afraid to say no, Wendy couldnt help but
laugh finally giving in to the idea of just having a dinner with him. It wasnt
a date and she would set the ground work down for him right off the bat. She
was in love with Ken, but wasnt against being friends with him.
Im not sure thats really the kind of answer that I was looking
for, Cameron shook his head in refusal to accept what she was saying
to him. What do you think everyone? Should Wendy say yes?
There was a round of cheers and encouragement before Cameron laughed again.
I think the crowd is hoping for some enthusiasm, Cameron further
taunted seeing the way that she glared up at him, Come on Wendy. Lets
get a bit of the Christmas spirit going.
I think youre climbing onto the top of Santas naughty list,
she mouthed curling her lips in a bit of a frown while watching him leap down
from the conveyer belt.
Only if thats what you want me to do, he replied handing
the microphone to the man at his side. He stepped forward, his eyes focusing
completely on Wendy alone as he moved to a position right in front of her.
Come on Wendy. Is it so wrong to want to take a chance on something?
Cameron, I have a boyfriend, she replied bringing her hand up
to her cheek and feeling it hot with the fire that was burning inside of her
boiling at her blood.
And hes obviously not here right now, so what do you have to lose?
he wiggled his brow suggestively at her. Its just dinner.
As friends, she added seeing him raise his hands in the air.
If thats what you want it to be, then so be it. Ill take
what I can get at this point, Cameron promised with a wide grin.
Fine, then yes. Ill have dinner with you, Wendy replied
as a chorus of laughter and clapping filled her ears. She felt the volume
of the sound carry over the room and Cameron reached out to take her hand
in his before motioning to the door again.
How about we get out of here so we can talk alone? he suggested
watching her nod in agreement. Cameron released her hand for a moment before
stepping aside and waving to the crowd. Thank you ladies and gentleman.
Well be here next week for a repeat performance, but for now I think
Im going to get started on dinner. If youll excuse us oh and Ramona,
dont forget to have those things shipped to my place.
Of course Mr. Stone, the woman behind the cash register nodded
handing him back his charge card before Cameron reached for Wendys hand
and pulled her out of the center of the store. Within a matter of moments
they were outside enjoying the warmth of the sunny day that surrounded them.
Stone, Wendy repeated her dark eyes wide with surprise, As
in Angela Stone?
Cameron nodded before facing her again, Yes, shes my sister. Do
you know her?
I more than know her, Wendy replied honestly feeling her face
grow hot in the moment, Shes dating my boyfriends brother.
They just had two children and
And youre dating Ken, Cameron deduced seeing her nod back
at him. He thought about it for a moment before shaking his head, Its
no matter. A little healthy competition is good for any man.
No you dont understand. He and I are
she stammered
to find the right words.
Going to still be together after we go out to dinner, Cameron
finished for her refusing to let the fact that she was Kens girlfriend
stop him from his plans for the two of them. Ken can find something
else to keep him busy while were out as Im sure that the twins
would love to see their uncle.
I dont know if we can
Wendy began again only to see
the determined look on his face again.
You said yes and Im going to hold you to it whether Ken likes
it or not, Cameron shrugged his shoulders simply. Besides, I see
it this way if he gets jealous, then you can test out what he really feels
for you.
Sounds kind of shallow if you ask me. I dont think I would sink
that low, Wendy wrinkled her nose at the notion.
As I said before Ill say just about anything to get you to go
out with me. Hell, if its really that much of an issue bring Ken along
with you. I dont mind some healthy competition and Im for damn
certain Ill be able to persuade you to forget about him and think about
the idea of something long term with, well me, he blurted out with a
newfound confidence in his tone that had Wendy wondering just what it was
about her that had prompted him to take notice.
Look Cameron, its not that Im not into long term, but
she stopped feeling her breath escape her lips. She tipped her head up enough
to see a blurred vision of Cameron in front of her. Or was it three of Cameron?
She extended her arm shakily before opening her mouth again, Look I
really appreciate the offer, but
Wendy, are you alright, Cameron questioned worriedly noticing
that the color had completely drained from her features.
Yeah, Im just a little weak and
her words came to
an abrupt ending when she fell forward into his arms with a sudden collapse.
Wendy? he spoke her name attempting to rouse her, but she lay
limp in his arms. Suddenly a fear swept over him as he realized he had to
find a way to help this beautiful stranger hed just happened upon. Squeezing
her closer to his chest he stepped into the store again hoping to call for
help before anything more could happen to her. Looking to her pale face he
whispered in her ear worriedly, Just hold on Wendy. Im going to
take care of you.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Evie clenched her stomach and flushed the toilet before making her way over
to the sink and turning it on. She looked up at her reflection seeing that
her otherwise welcoming brown eyes were laced with exhaustion and disgust
after shed spent the last half an hour throwing up in JTs bathroom.
While shed thought that sleep would do her some good, she couldnt
help but find herself awakening to the feeling that something was trying to
work its way out from within causing her to be overwhelmed with what
had to be the worst case of a flu bug shed had in her entire life.
This had to be one of the worst couple of days of her life, she realized knowing
full well that her trip had gone anything, but planned.
Leaning forward she let out a long sigh before washing her hands. She reached
for one of the wash cloths that JT had given her and brought it up to her
face in an attempt to cool herself down now that a groan carried over her.
Hearing a knock at the door she let out a small agonizing groan.
Go away, she moaned closing her eyes while trying to will away
the swirling images of what being sick had brought to her mind. She turned
around and took a seat on the countertop before hearing the door open. With
a sigh she forced herself to open her eyes again and spotted JT approaching
her with nothing but a pair of black colored sweatpants on.
Here try this. It might help, he suggested offering the steaming
mug up to her and watching her wrinkle her nose at it.
No, I cant eat or drink anything at this point, she admitted
with another groan. I dont think I will last if anything else
comes up right now.
Trust me this is good for you, he held the mug in closer to her
before beckoning her with his hazel eyes.
JT, I cant even think about taking anything right now, she
protested bringing her hand up over her abdomen before shaking her head, In
fact the more I think about any type of food, the more it reminds me of what
I was doing two minutes before you came in here. I dont want to think
about that because I hate throwing up.
Sometimes in doing it youll feel better, he offered up setting
the mug on the countertop. Plus the sooner it gets out of your system,
the better off youll feel.
JT, I think I just wiped out my system for the last decade or so,
Evie admitted with a heavy sigh turning her head to the side and resting it
up against the mirror. Ive never felt this bad before in my life.
But just know that youll feel better soon, he spoke up encouragingly
taking a seat beside her on the counter. He offered up his arm to her and
felt her lean into him, a soft whimper falling from her lips.
You keep saying that, but I feel like Im dying, she gasped
for a breath before tipping her head up to meet his concerned eyes.
Youre not dying. I can assure you that, he promised taking
his thumb and brushing it over her cheekbone gently, Though I can assure
you that youd feel a lot better if you drank what I brought you.
JT, Im not really thirsty, she paused seeing the urging
behind his eyes, Fine, what is it?
Its an old family remedy that Martha shared with me, he
explained reaching for the mug and handing it to her.
Hold on a second, she shook her head in refusal before holding
her hands up in the air, Martha was the one that brought dinner over
last night and I got sick.
You were sick before you ate anything Martha gave us, JT pointed
out with a small frown, Maybe you just overdid it with that strawberry
syrup you practically drank from the bottle.
I would never drink it from the bottle, she curled her lip in
protest before catching his pointed expression, I wouldnt.
Not without a straw right, he couldnt help but tease before
looking to her again in all seriousness.
Thats so not funny, she groaned shaking her head at him
again, especially now.
Im sorry, but mark my words this will help, he raised the
mug in the air once again. He wiggled his brow at her suggestively, For
me
JT, I am really starting to hate you right now because youre trying
to make me do something that I really dont want to do, she started
to protest watching him shake his head at her words.
I would never make you do anything that you dont want to do love,
but I just thought this would help, he slid off of the counter and started
towards the door. You do what you have to do though and Ill be
out there when you need me.
JT wait, she paused turning her attention to the mug again before
frowning. She reached for it, picking it up from where hed set it in
his retreat. Just for the record Ill drink this, but I hate you.
Im sure you do, he turned around to watch her take a sip
of it. Once she pulled back he noticed the way her nose wrinkled.
JT this tastes like puke, she blurted out feeling a shudder pass
over her.
Trust me if you finish it off youll be absolutely perfect in a
day or so, he assured her with a warm smile, It will be like you
never were sick in the first place.
You say that like this is easy to swallow, but its nasty,
she turned her attention to the mug again, Honestly its terrible.
I know, but trust me its helpful, he stepped in towards
her watching her raise the mug once again.
Fine, but if this makes me worse, then youre going to be here
with me every single second Im getting sick, she warned taking
a long sip before reaching out to pinch at her nose to help with muting the
taste.
Fair enough, though I already told you that I would stay as long as
you needed me, he reminded her watching her set the empty mug down before
groaning.
I know what you said, but JT look at me. Im disgusting right now.
How in the world would you even think about wanting to kiss me again after
what Ive been doing? Do you have any idea how awful that must be?
she blurted out throwing her hands in the air. She let out a small whimper
before meeting his eyes again, Im so gross right now.
No youre not, JT shook his head before moving in beside
her, Youre not at all that honey.
Youre lying because you know Im upset, she protested
curling her lip in a pout. You think Im repulsive right now, dont
you?
No, not at all. We all have our good moments and our bad ones. Just
because youre feeling under the weather doesnt mean that I think
any less of you. I love you, he promised curling his arm around her
shoulders.
How can you love me when Im like this? she broke into tears
again, Here you were ready to be with me last night and all I could
do was throw up all over the place. First in here, then in bed on the sheets
and
Its okay, he squeezed her in his arms gently, things
like this happen.
But not to other people they dont. Hell, I dont think that
they happen to anyone in the world except for me, she whimpered bringing
her hand up into her hair that was tied away from her face. I think
I am the only one unlucky enough to have what shouldve been the best
night of my life with the man I love turn into this.
Evie, its really okay, he pulled her in closer to him, I
really dont have a problem with you like this. In fact if anything it
should show you all the more how I love you. I mean think about it I am not
in a hurry to go anywhere else or leave you.
Thats because you dont have anywhere else to go out here,
she reminded him sharply feeling her stomach tied in knots all over again.
No, its because there is nowhere else I would rather be,
he promise curling his finger underneath her chin and urging her to meet his
worried eyes. I love you Evie and that isnt going to change simply
because youve fallen ill. Trust me on that.
JT, its just
she paused feeling him press his index
finger in over the center of her lips.
Shh, its just given me some time to think about us and our situation,
he explained seeing the concerns behind her eyes. Maybe weve been
pushing things too hard and putting all this pressure on us when what we really
should be thinking about is what comes next.
What do you mean? she couldnt help but ask him.
Well with all the talks weve been having lately about making love,
I got to thinking that maybe just maybe weve been going about this all
wrong. Maybe instead of planning for what itll be like when we make
love we should focus on something else instead, JT explained with a
warm smile, his dark eyes reaching out into her.
Like what? she couldnt help but ask him worry evident behind
her eyes. JT, you arent thinking about breaking up with me are
you?
No on the contrary that is the last thing on my mind, he continued
to further explain before she could panic, I got to thinking that maybe
instead of just focusing on giving you a part of my heart that you already
have had for a long time, I was thinking that maybe I would just take it a
step forward and start putting the plans into motion for working on giving
you my name.
Your name, she replied with a wrinkled expression. JT, why
would you want to give me your name? How could you do that considering that
I really dont think I would be okay with you calling me JT.
He couldnt help but laugh as he shook his head at her, No, not
that silly. Im talking about my last name.
Your last name. Why would I
she stopped herself realization
dawning in on her, Oh your last name.
Yeah my last name, he nodded with a tiny hint of laughter in his
tone, I got to thinking that you and I have waited this long already
to be together so why not hold off the big moment until were married?
Married? she repeated with wide eyes, JT, are you kidding
me? You want to wait for years on end to
Years, he laughed lightly before shaking his head at her, No
actually I was thinking that maybe I could call Martha up and perhaps we could
speed things up a little bit. That is if you dont have any objections.
Speed things up how? she couldnt help but ask searching
his eyes.
Well as soon as youre feeling better I was thinking that maybe
just maybe we could discuss an impromptu island wedding, he shrugged
his shoulders before fighting to repress the smile that carried over his lips,
That is of course if youre still interested in the whole marriage
thing.
Interested, she repeated with a high pitched squeal. Oh
yes JT Im more than interested. I so want to do it. Lets get married
on the island!
Great idea, he teased feeling her throw her arms around him excitedly.
Oh I love you. I love you so much, she giggled eagerly moving
in to kiss him before thinking twice about it. She pulled back with an apologetic
expression before detangling herself from his arms, Maybe I should brush
my teeth first and maybe get to some mouthwash.
Evie, I
he started seeing her rush to brush her teeth before
reaching for the Listerine and taking a long swig of it. A few minutes later
she leapt into his arms again kissing him excitedly before drawing back.
I forgot that I have the flu. If I keep kissing you and you get it,
she gasped horrified at her enthusiasm leading her to put him at risk.
I think Ill take my chances, he smiled at her kissing her
once again and finding himself relieved that hed found a way to cheer
her up for a while now that it seemed that she might be on the first step
on the road to recovery with their impending wedding around the corner.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Feeling any better? Angela stared out at Kevin as he held Alison
in his arms, his eyes seeming to never leave her. Instead of the pained expression
that she had seen earlier, he now had a smile on his face while holding her
close to his chest. Who knew a baby could put a smile on your face for
the first time today.
It might be the only thing, Kevin informed her looking up for
a moment to see her holding Brandon in her arms while feeding him a bottle.
Alison looked so peaceful in his arms as she let out a small yawn making him
smile wider. They are precious, true miracles. You know that?
I sure do, Angela responded with a smile of her own watching his
finger slide down the side of Alisons face carefully tracing over her
features.
This is amazing Angie, beyond amazing, his voice came out somewhat
cracked and uneasy showing that he was a bit upset holding the little one
in his arms. It makes me think of really what could have been. What
we could have had. This little girl is so beautiful.
Our little girl would have been beautiful too, Angela muttered
quietly seeing Kevin lift his head to meet her glance and she nodded. This
is everything we should have experienced with our little girl. I think about
it too, its not fair that it was taken away from us like it was Kev.
Every moment I spend with them, I realize how lucky I am to have them with
me.
Dont ever let go of that feeling, Kevin sigh heavily as
Alison began to fall asleep in his arms. He was totally adoring this little
girl, but as his heart began to overtake his mind he found himself getting
more upset thinking about their past. I wish I could have done this
with our little one. Watched her grow, being there for all the firsts. Everything.
I know its not the same, but I do expect uncle Kevin to be in
every part of their lives, she carefully placed Brandon back into his
crib after she knew he fully had fallen back asleep. Stepping in closer to
Kevin, she knelt down before him on her knees. Youre a huge part
of my life and I dont want that to change. I want them to feel the same
kind of love from you that I do daily.
Kevin just simply nodded, didnt say anything at the moment and she leaned
up to press a kiss over his temple. Resting her head against his for a moment,
she sighed and then looked to her daughter who seemed to be completely content
within his arms.
Youre always going to be a part of our family, she wrapped
her arm around his shoulders and placed her right hand over his that was safely
holding onto Alison. His dark eyes glanced into hers as she began to speak.
Its never going to replace what we felt for our little girl. This
is my new miracles, but it doesnt cover up what we lost.
I know, I never expect you to just completely forget about our daughter,
Kevin gulped down heavily trying to hold back his emotions knowing that he didnt
want to get upset while holding Alison in his arms. And I promise I
will never walk away from Brandon or Alison. I wont let anyone hurt
them and I will make sure you never have to have the feeling of losing a child
again. Or Brant--God, thats the last thing I want for him. The both
of you.
And I know the both of you are going to take care of them, Angela
announced seeing her daughter turn closer into Kevin now that she had fallen
asleep. Alisons deeps breaths were heard clearly as Angela shook her
head thinking about the last few weeks. All the mistakes that were made over
the period of time. You know, when I was with Craven he told me that
we had no idea how much he truly screwed us over. I didnt understand
what he meant then, but the more I think about it--I dont really understand.
The man has always been certifiable, so anything that comes out of his
mouth tends not to make sense. Hes beyond any real sense of rationality,
but we already know he is, Kevin proclaimed knowing the feeling in his
heart he had more than enough to understand. More than he wanted to understand.
I understand just how much he screwed us over. The pain it felt to lose
our daughter, it was too much. Its a moment I will regret for the rest
of my life leaving that night, but
Kevin looked down as Alisons extremely small fingers wrapped around
his index finger and he gulped down heavily. Feeling his eyes misting over,
he shook his head at the very thought.
It brought you these wonderful children and I would never want to think
of these two not being here, Kevin gulped down heavily and he could
feel his own eyes misting over. Im so very happy you found your
happiness with Brant, I truly am. You have a perfect family. Youre happy.
Thats all I could have ever wished for you.
And Im happy for you too Kevin, Angelas fingers fanned
out over his broad shoulder as he tipped down to press a feather light kiss
over Alisons forehead. Ria is a great woman for you and Im
glad she could bring you happiness which is everything you deserve. Someone
who is going to make you happy.
She does
, Kevin nodded while his thoughts went back to Ria
and where she could be since she wasnt there when he woke up in the
morning. Clearing his throat, he tried to change the subject so he didnt
stay so upset. Which speaking of Ria
have you seen her?
I dont think so, Angela took in a long breath when Kevin
carefully handed her over Alison to put her back to bed like Brandon. Kevin
moved the chair closer to the cribs while Angela tucked them in carefully.
Im sure she is around here somewhere.
Kevins dark eyes stared out at the babies as they slept until they both
heard the loud laughing of someone outside in the hallway. Kevins head
turned toward the noise and by the sound of the voices it sounded like Ria
was with a man.
That better not be who I think it is, Kevin muttered aloud moving
toward the door to roll out in the hallway. When he spotted Ria and Steve
together he could feel every muscle in his body tightening. What the
hell are you doing here?
Kevin! Steve boasted watching Kevin roll the wheelchair closer
to the two of them and he watched Angela follow not far behind. I see
the wheelchair is working perfectly fine for you. What about your leg? How
is that going for you?
Its sore as hell, Kevin answered in an angry tone feeling
Angelas palms pressing in over his shoulders almost hinting to him that
he should calm down. Shouldnt you be on the island
very far
away from here?
I figured I would head back to the place I used to live to check on
my patient, Steve answered looking to Ria who had a worried glance over
her features. Most likely worried about the attitude Kevin was about to put
on Steve. Isnt that right, Ria?
I dont really care at this point, Kevin cut him off as Rias
face dropped and he looked back toward the bedroom. But if you didnt
notice the babies were sleeping and their room is right there. You laughing
as loud as you are is only going to wake them up. So I would really appreciate
if you could move your arrogant ass into the other room.
Kevin! Ria blurted out letting out a small gasp, but instead of
responding Steve simply nodded and moved toward the other room away from the
hallway. I cant believe you.
Its okay, clearly he doesnt want me to be his doctor,
Steve explained watching Kevins eyebrows tighten and he nodded. Its
a win-win situation for me I guess because then I get to spend my extra time
with you instead of him. Ive really been missing you a lot and it would
be nice to spend some time with you.
That would be
, Rias began to speak only to hear Kevin
let out a long groan making her stop to look back at him as he tried to stand
up.
Listen, she has a boyfriend and this whole flirting thing is not going
to happen right in front of me, Kevin felt Angela trying to keep him
down as he let out an angered noise. She was clearly worried about him trying
to attack Steve, but he couldnt just sit back and let this guy step
in on his fiancée while he was hurt. Not now, not any time. And
Im not going to put up with it.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
This is so typical Diane, Deidra threw her hands up in the air
before checking the time once again, She knew when our flight was taking
off, yet she has to take her sweet time to get here like the plane will wait
for her to join us.
Im sure shell be here shortly, Dean offered up thinking
about Deidras growing impatience with her younger sister. Diane had
called earlier saying she was running a little behind, but neither Dean nor
Deidra had anticipated that she would be this far behind on things.
Im going to kill her. Mom is going to kill her. The wedding will
be going on without us there and
Deidra continued to pace around
the small area in the airport now that her frustrations were mounting.
I see her, Dean pointed out nodding to just beyond where they
were waiting for Diane. I think were going to make it.
Wed better because if were late mom is going to be so disappointed,
Deidra marched forward ready to do what was necessary to get her sister moving
faster than she was. Diane, come on the plane is going to take off in
a few minutes.
Im sorry Im running behind. We got held up in security and
Diane explained out of breath as she moved in closer to Deidra.
We? Deidra repeated now that her eyes moved beyond Diane to the
man who was at Dianes heels. Immediately recognizing Shane, Deidra couldnt
help but frown.
It was my fault really. I had this money clip that I forgot about and
Shane started as Diane shook her head in protest.
It was mine because I had that belt thing and I couldnt remember
it was metal and
Diane blabbed in a breathy tone.
It doesnt matter why youre late. All that matters is youre
here, Dean mouthed motioning for the two to follow them. You have
your carry on, yes?
Right here, Diane motioned to the bag that was over her shoulder.
Ill take that, Shane offered up reaching out to take it
from her with a smile.
Thank you, Diane replied as Deidra watched the exchange between
them with heavy scrutiny.
Shane, could you excuse us for a second, Deidra held her finger
up in the air before turning to Diane, We need to talk.
Dee, were running late and
Diane felt her sister reaching
out to snag her arm and drag her across the walkway. Once they were out of
earshot of the men, Diane couldnt help but notice the glare that Deidra
gave her. What?
Dont ask me what? Diane, how could you bring him with you to moms
wedding? Deidra questioned in a muted hiss, I thought that you
said you were going to give yourself some space after what happened the other
night.
Nothing happened. I was a little tipsy and I was acting stupid,
Diane tried to explain to her sister even though she knew full well it was
a lie.
Acting stupid is what got you into trouble in the first place with Ben.
This is the last thing you need, Deidra nodded over towards Shane. You
need to tell him that you changed your mind and you dont want him coming
with us.
But I do. Ben cant make it, so why cant I take him along
with me? Hes my friend, Diane explained matter of fact, What
is wrong with having a friend around?
There is nothing wrong with having a friend around, but this guy is
clearly more than that considering that I saw you kissing, Deidra reminded
her harshly, I really dont think that you should be chumming around
with him especially now Diane because you could end up in some major trouble.
Deidra, Im not a child. I know how to take care of myself without
screwing things up in my life. I learned that lesson with JT, Diane
scoffed in response her mouth turning down in a scowl.
Did you? Deidra couldnt help but ask. Look Diane all
I am saying is that youre jumping into dangerous territory in bringing
him along with us. Its clear that the guy has some kind of feelings
for you Diane--feelings that could wind up getting you into trouble with Ben.
Ben loves me and I love him. There isnt going to be a problem,
Diane announced catching the way that Deidra looked at her, Its
true. Trust me.
I do Diane, but I dont trust him, Deidra nodded over at
Shane again, I cant quite put my finger on it, but there is something
about him that just makes me wonder what his real intentions are. I mean you
dont really know much of anything about this guy, yet youre spending
all your time with him.
People wouldve said that same thing about you and Dean when you
first started dating one another, but look how that turned out. Besides Im
not dating Shane and Im not even considering anything more than friendship.
Hes just been here for me while Ben was gone and thats something
that I have come to appreciate, Diane explained standing taller and
facing down her sister. Its not a problem. Believe me.
I want to, but he makes it hard on me. Diane please just be careful
because I really dont want to see you lose everything again, Deidra
confessed with worry evident in her tone.
I wont this time Deidra. I know what Im doing and I can
promise you its not upsetting the balance in my relationship with Ben.
Now lets get on that plane before mom is going to murder us, Diane
suggested giving her sister a brief smile before rejoining Shane and Dean
again. As Deidra watched her sister interact with Shane she feared that her
sister truly had no idea what she was getting herself into. She just hoped
it wouldnt end up costing Diane far more than she bargained for.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Ok Walters, dont ever tell me that Ive never done anything
for you ever again, Alexa warned closing the door behind her only to
discover Ben sulking in the very spot shed left him in a while earlier.
Stepping towards him she shook her head and frowned. You owe me big
time now.
Why now? Ben asked somberly. Did you get us double duty
down here for another few months?
Better, she smiled at him while reaching for one of the chairs
near the table. She pulled it closer to her and turned it around before taking
a seat. Youll be repaying me for at least a few years for this
one.
And just what might this one be? Ben questioned curiously.
I had a talk with a few people who owed me a few favors and in a few
short hours you and I will be on the next flight out of here, she explained
proudly.
Where to now? he groaned outwardly. Please dont tell
me its to Los Angeles or New Orleans at this point because I dont
know how much more I can take considering that Im stuck here while Diane
is needing me to be there for her during her moms wedding.
I figured that would be on your mind, Alexa mouthed thinking about
the message Ben had been replaying over and over on his cell phone. Her eyes
fell to the table top where his cell phone was resting and she groaned outwardly.
I knew you would be completely useless on the job with that wedding
on your mind.
Its important to her, Ben opened his mouth to argue further,
but she raised her hand to urge him to stop.
I realize that and while the very idea of your jumping through hoops
for Diane Stevens makes me nauseous, I have to admit that seeing you like
this is worse, which is why I was able to pull a few strings and arrange for
us to get a leave of absence.
Wait, what? Ben blinked back at her. Lex are you saying
that
I arranged for us to get a break from all of this luxury, she
motioned to the office they were standing in. We have some support on
this case now that its bigger than anticipated. Given that weve
been in explosions and sewers and in dangerous situations that goes beyond
the norm for the job theyve opted to give us a break for a while.
What does a while entail? he couldnt help but ask.
Itll be enough time for you to be there for the wedding with Diane
and to make an appearance back in Coral Valley when its over,
she shrugged her shoulders simply. It was the least I could do.
You say that like it was no big deal, Ben rose from his seat,
but if what youre saying is true, then it means that
You can be there for Diane when she needs you, she finished with
a nod. We never get these kind of breaks around here, so you should
enjoy it.
I will. I mean Im thrilled that I can finally see her, but
Ben paused giving her a long once over. Whats the catch?
Who says there is a catch? she shrugged her shoulders simply.
I think its pretty much a given that weve been screwed at
each and every twist and turn in all of this.
Even so they wouldnt just let us walk away from the case in the
state its in, Ben noted.
No they wouldnt normally do that, but I assured them that wed
touch base with the office in Coral Valley as soon as we got back to town
and that wed work on the leads in town, she continued to add.
So our going to Coral Valley isnt necessarily about taking a break,
but rather getting ready to work harder than before on this case, Ben
shook his head and scowled.
It gets you closer to Diane doesnt it? she questioned rising
up and pushing the chair away from her. You should at least say thank
you for that.
Thank you Lex, Ben rushed forward to embrace her excitedly. Now
I can make it in time to be there with her and
Once we check out one last lead then well be on our way out of
town, she informed him as she kept her arms at her side in the hopes
of ignoring the warmth of his embrace.
What do you mean one more lead? he searched her eyes once again.
Stepping back he frowned. This is another part of that catch isnt
it?
Its just one small look into the case before we skip town,
she motioned to the phone on the table again. But before we go we can
call Diane and you can tell her that youll be there as soon as possible.
Youre right, Ben nodded reaching out to collect his phone.
He opened it up and started to dial before closing it. On second thought
I think this can wait.
Wait? she repeated.
Yeah, I mean I know Diane will be excited, but I think shell be
even more excited if I surprise her. She loves surprises and Im sure
on the way to the island I can pull a few things together and make it perfect,
Ben beamed with enthusiasm. Ill make it romantic and wonderful
for her and I owe it all to you. Thanks Lex youre the best.
I try, she forced an uneasy grin as he embraced her once again.
You really are wonderful, Ben squeezed her in his arms one last
time before releasing her. Now how about that lead?
After you, Alexa waved him on as she wondered if she was doing
the right thing in leading Ben to the last woman she was certain her friend
should spend the rest of his life with. Regardless of how she felt she knew
once they finished up with their lead there would be no turning back. Ben
would be on his way to be reunited with Diane and Alexa would have to face
the fact that there was absolutely no chance of her and Ben connecting on
a romantic level--ever.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...