Story 1 OLD & NEW FRIENDS
SEASON 4 FINALE ENDING RECAP:
Cassie and Charles had an almost wedding but did not get married. They ended the night sitting on the rooftop. Tay is practicing his music and Lizzie and Andrew are cleaning up the kitchen from Cassie and Charles's engagement party. Eddie and Jenn are reflecting on the wonderful day and how everything turned out okay. Here's how things start off the next morning... Here's where my story picks up and begins:
New Characters I Added to the Lincoln Heights Cast:
Dean(old friend of Charles from Germany)
Kayla & Shaunice (Lizzie's best friends)Stacey,(Cassie's lesbian friend is back)
Emillio and David (Charles's friends)
Claire (Cassie's new friend, she just moved to the Heights.)
STORY 1/SCENE 1
Eddie snuk up behind Jenn scaring her and grabbed her around the waist. Scrambled eggs spilling all over the stove and ruining breakfast.
"Eddie!!!!, what did I tell u about sneaking up on me?? You're ruining your breakfast."
"Jenn, anything that smells this good can't be ruined." He reached over to steal a piece of bacon. "What are you doing up this early anyway? It's Saturday. What happened to our normal 10:00AM late Saturday breakfast?"
"I barely slept a wink. My baby got engaged yesterday. I'm so happy and scared for her all at the same time. She's....she's a woman Eddie." She groaned and put her face in her hands.
Eddie cleared his throat. "Can we not talk about my baby becoming a woman right now. I'm still getting over yesterday. There are some things a father just can't think about until the right time." Eddie kissed Jenn's cheek. "And why are you laughin?"
"Eddie, there will never be a right time for you." She stuck a biscuit in his mouth before he could respond. "Go get the kids for breakfast." Jenn smiled.
Lizzie helps herself to four buttermilk pancakes. "Wow, Mom, what time did u get up? This food is so good compared to what we had a few days ago." Lizzie and Tay hi-fived and darted eyes with Eddie. "No offense dad but Martha Stewart u are not." Tay bust out laughing.
"Glad your in a cheerful mood Tay." Eddie winked. You and I have yard duty today. Trim the hedges, mow the lawn and i was even thinking about installing landscape lights. Man stuff!" Eddie smiled
"But dad, the last project u did outside you cut a water line and we didn't have water for a few hours. Can't we just pay somebody?"
"Boy, hurry up and eat. We got work to do. And where is your sister? Breakfast is almost over?" Lizzie and Tay just stared at their plates. "Okay, i know you're not deaf. I said where is your sister?" Lizzie and Tay just stared at each other and started clearing the table. "Everybody stop! For the third time, where is........
(Cassie Walks In)
Cassie walks in as Charles drives away just as Eddie ask for her again. "Wow,.....you guys are up early." She twisted her shirt nervously in her hands as she walked into the kitchen. "We never get up this early." she whispered to herself worriedly. She made herself some breakfast. Oblivious to the fact that everyone in the kitchen is silent and staring at her. She and Charles had such a wonderful night. She had only ment to stay over at Charles's for a couple hours but the engagement party and everything about yesterday was so perfect. She had really found her love of a lifetime. She and Charles had spent the night in each other's arms. It's funny how being engaged made her feel different somehow. Charles felt it to. It's like they had crossed a path and nothing from this point could stand in their way. We'll, nothing except for her dad.
"Cassie!!!!" Eddie yelled "You'd better have a good explanation young lady. Walking in here like this. Have you lost your mind? Where the hell were you? and was that Charles i just heard squealing away from here?"
"Dad, don't be upset. Charles,....I mean, my fiancee and i talked for hours and stayed up talking on the roof and then later we talked out on the front porch. He's my fiancee dad. It's not like we spent the night in my bedroom or anything." She hated lying to her dad but she knew he would never understand. It wouldn't matter to him that she and Charles were now engaged. "We heard everyone having breakfast so i was just seeing Charles off. That's it." She twisted her fingers nervously.
Eddie shook his head and look up to the sky and clasped his hands together as if in prayer. "Why me lord? I'm not ready for teenagers or a son in law." He lifted both eyebrows and glared at Cassie. "You spent the night talking on the front porch?" he asked suspiciously and turned to Jenn for support.
"Cassie, please tell me u didn't spend the night at Charles's. You two are engaged but your still considered a minor and your father and i are responsible for you."
"Mom,....Cassie rolled her eyes. Yes." "Charles and i were so excited we just couldn't sleep. We just talked and talked and we just.... just can't believe it finally happened. He's my fiancee. Finally. Everything is different for us now." staring from Eddie to Jenn, Cassie sat down for breakfast.
"Those aren't the clothes you had on last night." Tay pointed out. Eddie, Jenn and Cassie all turned, "Shut up Tay!"
"My bad." Tay just shut up and gulped his orange juice.
"Mom!!..." Cassie pleaded for support. "Dad is ruining my engagement." She threw her fork down. "I'm not hungry anymore. Can i be excused?"
Eddie blocked the staircase. "You'll be excused if and when I........"
"EDDIE!", Jenn yelled. "We'll finish this discussion later. Your daughter is clearly embarrassed by the situation. Let's just finish breakfast. Tay,...Lizzie, clean up please." "Eddie, can i talk to you upstairs in private please?"
Lizzie and Tay cleared the table and cleaned the dishes as Cassie finished eating. Cassie noticed the two of them whispering as they washed the dishes.
"What are u two whispering about? Please don't talk about me like I'm not even here." She finished eating and tossed her plate in the sink spilling suds and water all over Tay and Lizzie.
"Nice going Cassie!" Lizzie yelled. "By the way, does Charles sleep on the left or the right side of the bed?" Lizzie and Tay laughed as they finished cleaning.
Cassie shook her head and rolled her eyes. "I hate you.!" She stormed upstairs to her room.
Tay made sure she was gone before he leaned over told Lizzie with a crazy starry eyed look on his face. "I bet Charles has a water bed."
Lizzie shook her head. "My sister's a mean troll and my brother is an idiot." She gave Tay a fake smile and walked off.
STORY 1/SCENE 2
Jenn sat on the bed and let out a sigh of weariness and relief as she let her head fall back, staring up at the ceiling. Eddie closed the bedroom door and leaned against it with his arms folded. He eyed Jenn warily. He knew where she was going with this and he didn't like it. Jenn stood up and walked up to him, taking both his hand in hers. Eddie leaned his forehead against hers.
"Okay, you got my undivided attention Mrs. Sutton. What now? I swear your daughter's gonna give me grey hair before my time." he muttered.
"How come every time she does something bad, she's my daughter?" Jenn laughed. "I'm not excusing what happened but my point is we really don't know what happened. I mean, we went to bed late and we left them on the rooftop in the wee hours of the morning. Maybe things honestly continued out on the porch Eddie."
"Jenn,...____ I just...."
"Eddie, Jenn interrupted, Let's not ruin a beautiful occasion. Our daughter's engaged and to a really nice guy I might add."
"That's not the point." Eddie shook his head.
"Not necessarily, but Charles is a great guy who loves our daughter and we both know he would never do anything to hurt her." She kissed Eddie and smiled. Eddie couldn't help but smile and hug her in return.
"You know my weak spot woman. One kiss and you get me right where you want me. I'm gonna let this go, but I swear, if Charles starts calling me dad, I'm gonna kill him.
Jenn just smiled and kissed him again. Neither knew Cassie was eavesdropping on the other side of the door. Great!, she thought. She was off the hook and didn't have to worry about dad skinning Charles alive. She walked to her room smiling with a sigh of relief. She had to call Charles. She missed him already.
"Hello?"
"Charles, I'm sorry for calling so early. I know it's still early and I just saw you but I miss you already."
"It's okay Cassie. Is everything okay at home?"
"Everything's fine." she lied.
I miss you to babe. I'm tired but I just can't sleep. Just a little restless. You know, I can't help saying Mrs. Antoni over and over again in my head."
"I'm not Mrs. Antoni yet." Cassie smiled
"You might as well be. And last night was amazing." Charles whispered. "Whew!, man was it amazing." Charles said with a wicked grin.
"CHARLES!!," Cassie said bashfully as Charles chuckled on the other end of the line. "You're impossible." she giggled.
"I'm still thinking about how beautiful you were last night. And the negligee,...pink is definitely your best color babe," Charles whispered.
"CHARLES!!," Cassie blurted, "You're embarra...___"
"Okay," Charles interrupted. "I just can't believe you're still embarrassed and shy after all we've been through together."
"I'm sorry Charles." she said.
"It doesn't bother me Cassie. I think it's kind of cute."
"Really?"
"Yes." Charles wanted to continue his conversation with Cassie but he had another call beeping in. Oh My God, his caller ID said D-Man. Whoa!!!!!, he hadn't heard from his Germany buddy Dean in about a year. "Hey, babe, I gotta take this call okay but promise me we'll finish this talk later?"
"Promise. Bye"
"Hello?"
"Chuckster?.....What's up bro?, It's D-Man."
"Dude, where the hell have u been? Last I heard you and your family were moving to Texas. Seriously dude, you ever hear of a cell phone? Man, reach out and touch somebody every once and a while. I thought you were MIA" Charles grinned.
"Hey, guilty as charged. Come on bro. You know how it is. New town, new people. Takes a while to settle in. You know, mingle with the locals." Dean laughed.
"Look, forget about all that. How've you been man? How's Texas?"
"Texas was great but dad got a great job offer so we picked up and moved to good old soggy Seattle. Gotta love the rain." Dean joked. "But look, my dad's job has him traveling all the time and he's gonna be in LA for 2 weeks. I plan on joining him so we gotta hook up!"
"Dude. That's great. Definitely"
"Great. I'll call you tomorrow and maybe u can show me the highlights of LA. Introduce your bro to the ladies. That is,....if u don't have the whole town on lock down yet?" Dean laughed. "Remember our Germany days??"
"How could i forget?" Charles asked. He shook his head and smiled. They had had some great times. "But seriously, u couldn't have come at a better time. I want you to meet my fiancee Cassie. I ah....I got engaged yesterday." Charles said hesitantly. Being engaged was one thing. Sharing your softer/sensitive side with one of your old party buddies was another.
There was a long pause. "Dean, are u still there bud?" "Dean??"
"Yeah...Man. I'm here. Whoa.....Did you say engaged? You mean engaged like to a woman?? Dean chuckled. "What happened to our Bros before Hoes pact? he laughed uncontrollably.
"Still the same old Dean." Charles grinned. "Of course to a woman idiot. I ah.... I....I love her Dean.You've gotta meet her. She's great."
"Dude,...Seriously, if u keep talkin all soft and cuddly you're gonna make me cry." Dean joked. "Honestly, that's great man. I'm happy for you. Surprised as hell, but happy all the same. Hey, this just means more single chicks for me right?" he laughed.
"Just call me when you get in town dude. We'll hang out."
"Cool, okay. Tomorrow. Can't wait to meet your fiancee."
Wow! His old buddy Dean. He sat on the sofa and toyed with his cell phone. He and Dean had done some wild and crazy things. They had both been bored army brats with nothing but mischief and girls on their minds. "D-Man!" he said out loud to himself as he laughed and shook his head and thought about what a character his buddy was. Wild, crazy, womanizer, heartbreaker. He stared at his cell phone with open curiousity and cocked his head. So,.....His old buddy D-Man was in town.
STORY 1/SCENE 3 (Monday Morning)
New Characters: Ana Gonzalez, Claire, Sage returns
Eddie strapped and buckled his patrol belt/holster. "Alright, if anyone's riding to school with me, let's go!"
The door bell rang and Lizzie ran to open it, expecting Andrew. "I'm walking with Andrew." she yelled.
"Is he walking you to school everyday now?" Eddie shrugged and frowned. Lizzie ignored him. A car horn blew outside and Cassie finished off her glass of milk hurriedly. "That's Stacy, I gotta go. Bye mom, dad."
Eddie turned to Tay, "Well, guess it's just us men this morning."
Lizzie noticed Andrew was really quiet this morning. He barely said two words to her. "Okay, what's with the silent treatment?" she asked as they walked to school. Andrew glanced at her and looked away. Walking and staring straight ahead. "Sorry."
"Don't be sorry Andrew, just tell me what's wrong." she stopped walking and grabbed Andrew's arm. "Are you sure everything's okay?"
"Lizzie, I'm fine. We're gonna be late. Let's just go." Andrew muttered. It was obvious he was upset about something.
"You're lying!..."
"Lizzie,...I...Just forget it." Andrew walked off ahead of her. Lizzie raced to catch up.
"Can't you just tell me. We haven't known each other that long Andrew but I promise I'm a good listener. Please." she begged as she held his hand.
"Lizzie, it's just a family thing okay. Nothing to worry about." He smiled but avoided her eyes. "Let's just go to school. I've got a big test today."
He wouldn't even look at her. Something was wrong and it had something to do with his family. All she knew about them was Andrew was an only child and lived with his mom Ana. Every time she brought up Ana, Andrew got a distant shameful look on his face.
"Okay, but do you wanna get together and study after school today. I could come over to your house this time. We always meet up at my house. Besides, I'd love to meet your mom."
"NO!!!!" Andrew screamed.
"Andrew...she whispered with the hurt and concern evident in her wobbly voice. "I don't understand."
"Lizzie, for the tenth time, there's nothing to understand. Let's just go." He said forcefully. He took her arm and nudged her on. "Please."
"Fine." They walked to school in silence.
Cassie slammed her locker door and turned just as Charles planted a big kiss on her lips.
"Oh!, there you are."
"Hey beautiful."
"Hey yourself. Listen I'll see u at lunch okay. Hate to rush off but I gotta big Trig test and I'm gonna be late."
"I can't." Charles said disappointedly. "I've got an appointment with my guidance counselor at lunch. My dad was able to pull some strings and get me out of my military enlistment just like he promised."
"Charles, that's great." she hugged him tightly. She was so excited for him.
"Yeah, so I'm gonna meet with the counselor and discuss my options."
"Okay, so I'll just see you after school." she smiled.
"Oh!, about that." he frowned. "Do you think you can get a ride home with Stacy. My friend Dean's coming in town today and we're gonna hang out after school. You know, do some guy stuff. Can't wait for you to meet him."
Cassie shrugged. "Dean???, that doesn't sound familiar."
"D-Man, my Germany buddy." Charles reminded her.
"Oh!!, yeah. You used to talk about him all the time."
"Yeah, he called unexpectedly. He's gonna be here for a couple weeks. You'll love him. Wait till you meet him." he smiled.
"Sure." she kissed him. "But i really gotta go okay. Don't want to be late." She ran down the hall for her class.
"Okay but meet me at my car after school!" Charles yelled to her as she rushed down the hallway. She turned and smiled.
"Right, after school. Okay. Bye babe!"
Just as she turned the corner, she plows into another student. Books and papers flying everywhere.
"OMG!, I'm so sorry. So sorry." she apologized to the student as she knelt to help pick up books and papers.
"No!, don't be. It was my fault" she apologized. "I'm the one who should be sorry. I'm sorry, I'm late and I'm lost. I'm so lost. Can you help me find Mr. Pettiford's Trig class? I thought I was going the right way but apparently not. I'm new here but I'm sure you probably already knew that... with me being lost and all." she smiled nervously.
Cassie laughed. "Sure. By the way, my name's Cassie." They shook hands and smiled.
"I'm Claire. Nice to meet you Cassie."
"Come on. I have that class so we can walk together. Where are you from Claire?"
"North Carolina." Claire smiled. "I'm a country girl."
"Cool. We better go or we'll be late." They walked to class and she told Claire all about school and The Heights as they walked and got to know each other.
"Pssst....Pssst., Hey, Cassie? Gimme Friday's assignment." Sage whispered behind Cassie.
Cassie turned in her seat. "Sage, do you ever do your own homework?" she asked handing her the assignment.
Sage snatched the paper and began writing. "Of course not dummy. Why spend an hour doing homework when I can copy yours in 5 minutes." she grinned and winked. "By they way," she whispered and nodded her head at Claire, "Whose the new chick?"
"Her name's Claire. Sage, can you please try being nice to her?"
"Who said I was gonna be mean?" she rolled her eyes.
Cassie grimaced. "Sage, I mean it."
"Okay! Goodness. You make me sound like a devil in a red dress or something." she said wickedly. "I'll be on my best behavior." she smiled. "Like and angel."
STORY 1/SCENE 4
Everyone eyed Eddie warily as he walked into the police station. "Why in the hell is everybody whispering and eyeballing me?" he asked himself.
"You're gonna have one hell of a day." one of the deputies laughed. Another blurted out, "I wouldn't wish him on my worst enemy." The police chief's secretary patted him on the back and said, "Sorry Eddie. We didn't know he was such an asshole."
"Okay, what the hell is going on?" he frowned and walked to his locker for his patrol vest and firearm. Someone patted him on the shoulder. He turned to face another cop. The guy just stared him down.
"Can I help you?" he asked
"So!,....You're the infamous officer Eddie Sutton. Heard a lot about you. I'm a lil disappointed tho! You don't look so tough." the officer said disgustingly.
"That's right. I'm Eddie. Like I said, Can I help you?"
"Yeah!, you can help me." the officer said as he circled him sizing him up from head to toe. Trying to intimidate him. "Names Adam. Adam Watkins, but you can call me Watkins. I'm your new partner!" he grinned and flashed his badge in his face. "Came here to teach you city boys a thing or two about real police work!"
Eddie stared in complete silence. What a hell of a way to start the day. This job kept getting better and better.
Eddie chuckled and looked down at the floor while pinching the bridge of his nose. He let out an aggravated breath of impatience and held out his hand. "Welcome to The Heights Officer Watkins."
Great!, No hand shake, no smile. Not even a passive nod from this guy. Man, who set him up with this jerk. His hand might as well had been a stump for all the attention Watkins paid it. Eddie grabbed his belongings and walked past Watkins intentionally giving him a wide girth as he passed. This guy clearly had some personal boundaries and needed his own space.
"Hey!" Watkins shouted after him. "Where the hell you going?"
"While you stand here watching that chip you got on your shoulder grow bigger, ...I'll be in the patrol car. Eddie glared and walked out.
Where in the hell was this guy? Eddie checked his watch and squirmed in the car seat uncomfortably. He'd been waiting for over 15 minutes. He opened the door to get out and go find the idiot just as Watkins opened the passenger side door.
"Nice of you to join me buddy." Eddie said and stared.
Watkins chewed his gum silently and buckled his seat belt. He glared at Eddie. "I'm not your buddy. I'm here to protect and serve."
Eddie wheeled the patrol car into traffic and ignored him.
STORY 1/SCENE5
Charles checked his watch as he and Dean leaned against the car waiting for Cassie after school. She was a little late but he killed time helping Dean with his favorite past time. (WOMEN)!
"Oh!, he grabbed Dean's shoulder turning him in the right direction. "Look, 2:00 o'clock. That's Kathy Burgess and her peeps. Cute, popular but most of all single.
"Wow!" Dean wiggled his eyebrows suggestively and put on his best man up stance. "You didn't tell me you had so many hot women at your school."
"Wait." Charles nodded. "12:00 o'clock. Priscilla Benson. Tall, pretty and aggressive and single. On the rebound single but still single." he laughed.
"Man, dude you've been holdin out on me. There's too many to choose from."
Just as Charles turned to check his watch again, Dean grabbed him by the neck turning his head and punched him jokingly in the chest. "OMG!!, look" he said. "Seriously Chuckster, tell me her name and I don't give a damn if she's single or not"
"What!?" Charles asked, jerking Dean's hand off of his neck.
"Dude, forget 12:00 o'clock. I"ll take door #2, at 3:00 o'clock. That's what I call chocolate brown sugar!" Dean licked his lips mockingly and strutted out into the crowd.
"Huh?, Dean what are you talking about?" Confused, Charles drew up both eyebrows and looked around the school yard. "Oh hell no!" he muttered. Door #2, at 3:00 o'clock was Cassie.
Dean???.....Dean?????.....DEAN??!!" he yelled. Dean was in a serious trance and making a b-line across the school yard. He sprinted to catch Dean. "Whoa, slow down. Sorry bud. This one's taken." he grabbed Cassie around the waist and kissed her. He looked back at Dean who was shaking his head and laughing in disbelief.
"Let me guess, Cassie right?
Charles confirmed his answer by kissing Cassie again.
Dean snickered. "You have got to be kidding me. Hundreds of women at this school and you get one of the hottest? What's up wit dat?"
Charles laughed. "Cassie, this is my boy D-Man, Dean."
Cassie smiled and shook Dean's hand. "Hi, I've heard a lot about you." She tried to draw her hand back but Dean wouldn't let go. Wow, she didn't want to admit it but Dean was impressive. Very impressive. It was hard for other guys to measure up in her eyes when compared to Charles, the love of her life but Dean was nothing short of beautiful. If you could call a man beautiful. Six foot plus of lean muscle with blond hair in a military buzz cut style showing his prominent cheek bones. And his eyes were a breath taking catlike green.
"Likewise Cassie, but I gotta say bro," Dean glanced at Charles, "you left out gorgeous, stunning and fine."
Cassie blushed as Charles cleared his throat forcefully. "D-Man, anybody ever tell you that you talk too much?" Charles asked with an amused glance.
Charles held Cassie's hand. "I missed you today." he smiled. He grabbed her and kissed her. No warning, no preliminaries, just a mouth claiming possessive kiss. He purposely kissed Cassie slowly and passionately. A kiss that took her breath away. His lips were firm and demanding. Just a little something for his buddy Dean to think about. The kiss went on and on until Claire cleared her throat in the background to get Cassie's attention. Cassie was obviously taken by surprise as her eyelids fluttered and she looked a little embarrassed.
"Oh!, sorry Claire. Here, let me introduce you. Claire this is my fiancee Charles and his friend Dean. Guys, this is Claire. Today was her first day at Robalson High." They exchanged greeting and Claire and Dean talked about being unfamiliar and new to the area. As Claire and Dean talked Cassie hugged Charles. "Wow!, from the tone of that kiss I think you missed me a lot. That was unexpected." She whispered for his ears only. Charles just gave her another quick kiss on the cheek and rubbed her arms while staring at Dean with a hard facial expression and his eyes were cold. Cassie couldn't help but notice a few tense moments of competitive male vibes between Charles and Dean.
"You guys should come over for dinner tonight." She said to break the silence. "Mom's cooking your favorite Charles, Lasagna." Cassie said
"D-Man???" he confirmed with Dean.
"Sure, sounds delicious. Can't wait." Dean flashed a grin.
STORY 1/SCENE 6
Lizzie ran out of school as the bell rang. With a little luck she would be off school grounds before Andrew caught up with her. They always walked to the local boys and girls club together after school but not today. She and Andrew both volunteered at the club after school so she could afford to miss a day. Today, she was on a mission to get some answers. A mission to find out the truth. With Andrew safely away at the club, she would have all the time she needed. Her cell phone rang. "Great." she winced. It was Andrew. No since avoiding him. Might as well go ahead and lie to his face now and get it over with.
"Hello?"
"Lizzie, where are you? I'm waiting at your locker and I've looked everywhere for you." Andrew asked. The frustration in his voice carried over the phone.
"Yeah...ah...look, I forgot to tell you I won't be at the club this afternoon so you don't have to wait for me. My mom's clinic sponsored a blood drive today and I promised her I'd help her out for a couple hours after school. I was gonna tell you this morning but... we'll I guess you know what happened. We had our first argument." she said quietly.
"Yeah...Lizzie, Andrew sighed, I'm sorry about my attitude this morning. I was just tired and I wasn't prepared for my test. That's all. Can we please forget it even happened. Will you please accept my apology?" he pleaded.
"What argument?" Lizzie joked. "Of course I forgi.....____"
"Lizzie!, Lizzie!,...wait up!" someone was yelling her name from behind. She turned and couldn't help rolling her eyes.
"Tay, are you following me?" she questioned.
"What?!, yeah right. Trust me, don't nobody wanna follow you." he joked and laughed along with Malik.
"Lizzie!, are you still there?" Andrew asked.
"Yeah, sorry." she explained.
"Is that Tay I hear? Is he going to the clinic with you? Look, if it's that important to you I can miss a day at the boys and girls club and come help you guys out. It sounds like fun." Andrew offered.
"No!" Lizzie insisted. "Actually, they've got more volunteers than they need. And the kids are expecting you at the club to help finish work on their holiday projects. I'll call you tonight okay."
"Okay, I'll talk to you later, bye."
Lizzie hung up the phone and kept walking, leaving Tay and Malik standing there.
"Lizzie!, where are you going?" Tay asked impatiently. "Home is that way." he pointed in the opposite direction.
"Yeah, and where is your boyfriend at?" Malik questioned. "Shouldn't he be walkin you home? It's not safe on these street. Girl, you need to quit that and get wit a playa like me." He tried to hold Lizzie's hand as he and Tay hi-fived and laughed like two village idiots.
"Malik, weren't you the fool who just got a beat down a few weeks ago?" Wow!, amazing how fast that shut Malik up.
Tay bust out laughing. "Shut up Tay." Malik frowned. "Them fools jacked me by suprise. They caught me on my off day. I ain't had my game face on. Imma be ready for em' next time." he tried to say it with a straight face but failed and couldn't help but laugh along with Tay.
"You two are pathetic." Lizzie smirked and walked off.
"I don't know exactly what that word means but it don't sound nice." Malik said. That's why your boyfriend got hair like a chia pet." Malik joked. Tay doubled over laughing.
"Lizzie!, are you gonna answer me?" Tay yelled while still laughing.
"What Tay?!"
"Where are you going?"
"Mind your own business Tay. I've got something to take care of. By the way, where are you going?" Lizzie questioned.
"I'm going over to Malik's house for a couple hours. I told mom this morning. Did you?" Tay questioned skeptically.
"Don't worry about me. I'll be home in time for dinner, I promise. And Tay, don't tell mom, Please." she pleaded.
"You want me to lie?" Tay asked.
"Tay, you don't have to lie. Just make sure you don't give mom a chance to ask about me. And besides, she'll think I'm at the boys and girls club. So don't worry."
"Okay, but if somebody grabs you and you get kidnapped, you can't blame me this time."
Tay and Malik walked off on their way to Malik's house.
4265 French Fields Lane. Lizzie hoped she had the right address. She knew this was the right apartment complex but she wasn't sure about the unit #. She'd seen this address on Andrew's boys and girls club volunteer application. Maybe she'd just ask around. She came up on a group of girls.
"Hi, I was wondering if you could help me? I'm looking for Ana, Ana Gonzalez. Can you tell me what unit she lives in? I'm friends with her son Andrew and I haven't seen him in a while. I just wanna check to make sure he's okay." she lied.
Two of the girls ignored her. The third spoke up just as she was about to give up and walk away.
"Yeah, Mrs. Gonzalez is on the 2nd floor, unit number 24, but good luck knockin on her door chica. Esta loco!" All three girls bust out laughing. "She probably won't even hear you."
"Thanks." Lizzie said
She knocked on the door repeatedly, even resorting to using the sides of her fist to pound the door. No one answered but she could hear a television. She kept knocking and called out for Mrs. Gonzalez.
"Mrs. Gonzalez!?...Mrs. Ana Gonzalez?...Hello?, Is anyone here?" She heard the door chain and lock rattling. Finally the door opened a small crack.
A thin middle aged woman with bloodshot eyes peeped through the crack. "What ever you sellin, I'm not buyin!" The door slammed shut again. Lizzie continued to knock and this time the door opened fully. The middle aged woman looked thin and frail. Her hair was all matted. Here eyes were a yellowy bloodshot red and the smell was awful. OMG!, that smell. She reeked of alcohol. The smell was everywhere. On her clothes, her breath, it seeped through the doorway. This is what Andrew didn't want her to see. This is what he tried so hard to hide. Lizzie peaked over the woman's shoulder into the apartment. Nothing but a table full of empty and half empty liquor and wine bottles. She felt so sorry for Andrew. No teenager should have to go through this.
"Are you___...," Lizzie hesitated as Mrs. Gonzalez leaned against the doorjamb for support, obviously to drunk to stand up straight. "Are you Mrs. Gonzalez?, Are you okay?" Lizzie sympathized.
"Yeah!" Mrs. Gonzalez said drunkenly. "Who are you? You from the ABC package store up the street? They send you to bring my bottle?" she stuttered.
"No...no mam. I'm not. I'm Lizzie." she expected Mrs. Gonzalez to instantly recognize her name as Andrew had told her he'd told his mom all about her, but in Mrs. Gonzalez's present condition, it's a wonder she even knew and recognized her own name. "Do you need help Mrs. Gonzalez? Do you want me to get you some water?" She felt so helpless standing there watching Andrew's mom in this condition. She knew there were places and support groups for people like Mrs. Gonzalez.
"I don't want water. Go get me a bottle!" she slurred as she stumbled in the doorway.
Lizzie grabbed her arm and helped her into the apartment. She got a glass of water from the tap.
Mrs. Gonzalez moaned. "My head is killing me."
"It's the alcohol." Lizzie explained. "You're probably dehydrated. I'm gonna get you some more water and do you have some kind of aspirin in the house?"
Mrs. Gonzalez ignored her. Lizzie rummaged through some cabinets and came across some mild aspirins. "Mrs. Gonzalez,...I need you to sit up and take these...please." she begged as she held out the pills. After a couple of tries she managed to get Mrs. Gonzalez to swallow the medicine and drink some more water. Within a few minutes, she was out like a light sleeping it off. Lizzie cleaned the table of all the bottles and trash the best she could and covered Mrs. Gonzalez up with a blanket. She sat and watched her sleep for a few minutes. She had to find a way to help Andrew. She just had to. She adjusted the covers to make sure she was warm. "Andrew and I are going to help you Mrs. Gonzalez. I promise you." she said as she watched her sleep.
STORY 1/SCENE 7
Lizzie and Cassie set the table for dinner. Eddie walked in groaning, "What a day." he said.
"Hi dad" They said.
"Hey, where's your mother?"
"In the kitchen, she's making my favorite, lasagna." Cassie said.
"You mean Charles's favorite?" Eddie winked.
Cassie smiled. "You look tired dad."
"No, just had a crazy day on the job. I got a new partner."
"That's great dad."
"Don't speak to soon," Eddie said regretfully. "Wait until you meet him." He went into the kitchen to check on Jenn.
Cassie glanced at Lizzie. She was unusually quiet this evening. "Everything okay Lizzie?"
"Yeah, I'm fine...why?"Lizzie lied.
"Because you've got that same look on your face I have when Charles and I have a fight."
"I'm fine" Lizzie confirmed.
"Okay, but if you wanna talk or need some advice maybe I can help." Cassie smiled.
Tay walked into the kitchen. "Hey Cassie, why are you all dressed up?"
"Charles is having dinner with us." Lizzie volunteered.
"I should have known." Tay said as he looked Cassie up and down. "You usually just come downstairs lookin like your usual ugly self."
"Shut up Tay. Besides, Cassie said as she put napkins on the table, Charles thinks I'm beautiful."
Tay shook his head. "That's cause he doesn't know flava when he sees it. I can't wait till you get married for real and move out. Then I won't have to see your ugly face first thing in the morning at the breakfast table." he teased.
Cassie threw a spoon after him as he took off running and laughing. Jenn was nearly tagged by the spoon as she walked in with a delicious dish of lasagna.
"Sorry mom." Cassie apologized.
"Stop apologizing and go tell your father dinner is ready. Oh, and Cassie, Jenn reminded her as she made her way up the stairs, don't forget you have kitchen duty tonight."
"but mom!, Charles is coming." Cassie frowned.
Jenn shook her head. "Cassie, you know the rules. Now, I'm sorry and I know you have company coming but it's still your night to clean the kitchen. Maybe Lizzie or Tay will trade nights with you."
One glance at Lizzie's face and Cassie knew the answer to that question. NO!. Looks like she was stuck doing dishes tonight after all. "Great." she sulked and stomped upstairs.
Charles and Dean were late. Cassie hoped they hadn't changed their minds. Where could they be? Oh well, she'd see him at school tomorrow. The doorbell rang just as they settled down to eat.
Cassie jumped up smiling. "I'll get it."
She opened the door to fresh flowers. "Oh!, Charles you're so sweet. These are beautiful."
Charles hugged her and kissed her on the cheek. "Hey beautiful, sorry we're late."
"Dinner just started a minute ago."
"Hey, no hug for your new friend?" Dean asked with outstretched arms, waiting for her to hug him.
"Hi Dean." she said. She felt uncomfortable and hesitated a bit but eventually gave Dean a quick half-hearted hug. Dean, on the other hand committed to the hug completely and enveloped her in his arms. She pulled away quickly and turned to Charles. He smiled but his eyes were cold and distant.
"Let's go have dinner. I don't want it to get cold." she said.
Cassie introduced Dean to everyone. As she went to take her seat, both Charles and Dean simultaneously pulled her chair out for her. Charles eyed Dean with a questionable glance and yanked the chair away. Dean was smart and quick on the uptake and took the hint. He sat down and released the chair.
Tay muttered sarcastically under his breath, "Awkward."
Lizzie jabbed him in the ribs with her elbow and Eddie gave him a silent shut up or else look. It was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Everyone had noticed the minor stand off between Charles and Dean. Cassie looked around and suddenly realized she was effectively and literally caught between a searing mad Charles to her right and Dean to her left, who seemed completely oblivious to the situation. Eddie tried to lighten the mood by engaging Dean in conversation.
"So!...ah Dean, I understand you've known Charles for years."
"Yeah, Chuck and I met in Germany. We went through grade school and middle school together. We've been best buds ever since. He's like a brother to me. Dean looked around Cassie to Charles. "Right Chuck?" he asked.
Charles looked up from quietly eating his dinner with suppressed anger. His fingers tightened on his fork and he swallowed hard. "Right... he paused, BUDDY." he confirmed sarcastically, emphasizing the word buddy with a quick hard angry bite as he chewed. He was mad as hell but he couldn't let Dean get the best of him in front of Cassie's family. Dean seemed oblivious to the tension he had created here tonight. His behavior toward Cassie was beginning to get a little irritating. Seriously, Charles thought, was this a joke or was he doing it intentionally. He really wanted to give the guy the benefit of the doubt but Dean was making it impossible. Sure, Dean was Dean. A charismatic skirt chasing idiot but this was different. This was Cassie. He and Dean had grown up together and competed against each other in everything. Constantly trying to one-up each other in sports, grades, everything... but Cassie was off limits.
Cassie turned and looked at him with anxious concerned eyes. "What's wrong?" she whispered. "Are you okay?"
"Nothing, I'm fine." he lied. He didn't want to involve Cassie. He leaned and kissed her on the temple and whispered softly, "I'm fine. Really."
Cassie smiled and held his hand under the table. Charles wasn't himself.
Charles hated lying to Cassie but he didn't want to cause a scene. Cassie and Mrs. Sutton had gone through a lot of trouble preparing a special last minute meal and he didn't want to spoil it. He'd finally won Eddie over by not going through with the wedding, proving once and for all that he was a responsible guy worthy of his daughter's love and he wasn't going to give him any reason to think differently by rough housing with Dean at the dinner table. He'd deal with Dean later.
Dean dominated the dinner conversations. Charles wondered if he'd ever shut up. He pinched the bridge of his nose with his fingers and rubbed his forehead frustratingly. This was the longest dinner ever. It took all he had to sit there and not rip the chair out from under Dean and punch his teeth down his throat.
Jenn questioned Dean about he and Charles's lasting friendship. "Wow, best buddies since grade school, that's wonderful. Hard to find true friends like that. You and Charles must have a lot in common with such a lasting friendship. Do you design and work on cars to?
"No Mam." Dean confirmed. Can't say that I do. I leave the cars to Chuck. Building and structure design, that's my passion." he gleamed. "My dads an architect." he explained. I watched him work as a kid and it fascinated me."
"That's great Dean" Eddie said.
"Yeah, it's nice that you can follow in your dad's foot steps. Sounds like some serious demanding work." Jenn said.
"It is." Dean replied. "Sometimes it's hard designing functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces, and now we also have to be concerned with environmentally conscious green design techniques. It's hard work sometimes but I have my guilty pleasures I can run to from time to time. Everybody needs a hobby right?" he questioned jokingly. "I guess you could call me an undercover artist. I paint and sketch in my spare time. I guess it grew on me from my days of helping my dad draft and scale building ideas."
Charles nearly choked as he drank his water. You have got to be kidding me, he thought. Seriously, since when had Dean become an artist? He hadn't seen Dean in years but the only thing he could ever remember them painting together was graffiti. Cassie patted him on the back as he coughed uncontrollably. "Excuse me." he said. "I'm sorry."
Cassie whirled in her seat turning to Dean. "Are you kidding me? An artist? Oh my God, that's great. I'm an artist. I've been painting for years."
"Really." Dean said with fake, pretentious wide eyed surprise. "That's awesome. Wow. Chuck you didn't tell me Cassie was an artist."
"No,...actually I did." Charles said forcefully. A few years ago when I first me Cassie. It must have slipped your mind." Charles reminded him abruptly.
Cassie and Dean continued talking about new and upcoming artist and new art concepts. Charles couldn't make heads or tales of the conversation because he knew next to nothing about art. Dean had single handedly ruined the whole night. He felt like he was being blindsided by his best friend.
Everyone thanked Jenn for a beautiful, delicious dinner. Tay, Jenn and Lizzie excused themselves and went upstairs. Charles and Dean offered to help Cassie clear the table and clean up. Eddie approached Charles. "Charles, I hear your dad was able to come through for you on his promise to pull you out of your military enlistment contract. I'm happy you gave him a second chance Charles. He's your father. You two may have some things to work out but he's still your father."
Charles continued clearing the table as he spoke with Eddie. "Yes sir." Charles said. Don't know how he did it. He just made some phone calls and told me not to ask any questions. He said it was best if I didn't know the details and he didn't want his son in the military. He says it's not the right place for me." Charles explained as Dean reached to take the stack of dishes from his arms. "I'll take those into the kitchen for you." Dean offered much to easily. Charles let go reluctantly as he didn't want Dean to be alone with Cassie.
"He's right." Eddie said. "The military is not for everyone. Look what it did to Nate. Sure, the Veteran's Administration has been great but it's gonna take some time for him to regroup"
"How's he doing by the way?" Charles asked.
"A lot better but still not one hundred percent." Eddie explained. He's got his own place now, says he needs his own space. I guess it's for the best. His therapy seems to be helping but change won't happen over night."
"That's good." Charles said. "Tell him I asked about him."
"I will." Eddie promised. "Well, I'm beat. I've got the partner from hell and I'm gonna need a good nights sleep to deal with this guy in the morning. Goodnight Charles."
"Thanks for dinner Mr. Sutton."
Eddie started up the stairs and turned unexpectedly. "And Charles?..."
"Yes Mr. Sutton?"
"Don't stay up all night on my porch." Eddie winked and went upstairs, leaving Charles with a confused and puzzled look on his face.
Dean and Cassie didn't hear Charles enter the kitchen. They stood with their backs turned washing dishes and laughing. He didn't mean to eavesdrop but couldn't help but over hear Dean questioning Cassie. He stood there for a few minutes.
"So,...Cassie, how did Chuckster snag a nice talented girl like yourself?" Dean asked.
Cassie handed Dean a plate to wash. "What do you mean?" she laughed.
"Well...," Dean paused, "your really different from the kind of women I'm used to seeing Chuck with. You know, the usual all beauty no brains kind."he said teasingly. "He got the complete package with you Cassie. Your beautiful, smart and not to mention extremely gifted and talented."
"Well, I don't know if it was love at first sight, Cassie smiled, but Charles and I have been through a lot together. I think that's what makes are relationship so special. So different." she admitted. "I still can't believe we're engaged and he's my fiance." Cassie said smiling from ear to ear.
Dean grunted. "Speaking of engagements, where's your ring? I noticed you aren't wearing one."
"Charles and I don't need rings to prove our love for one another. Besides, she smiled, Charles gave me his mothers diamond broach. It has real sentimental meaning to us."
"You two are so in love it's sickening." he laughed.
Cassie smiled and Dean leaned close and playfully bumped her with his hip and dabbed her nose with a spot of suds from his fingers. Charles had seen and heard enough. He cleared his throat to alert them of his presence.
"Dude, your a day late and a dollar short." Dean said. "We're done. All cleaned up." Dean looked and pointed around the spotless kitchen. "Clean as a whistle." he said.
"What were you and dad talking about?" Cassie questioned.
"Nothing important." Charles said. He hugged Cassie and caressed her hair away from her face. "Thanks again for dinner but it's getting late and we better go." He kissed Cassie. He could feel Dean's eyes boring into the back of his head as he kissed Cassie. He swore, if Dean approached Cassie with that (no kiss for a new friend crap), he was gonna kill him.
"Bye, see you tomorrow." Cassie said.
"Thanks Cassie. Dinner was great." Dean said.
Charles waited until Cassie closed the door and was completely out of sight as he and Dean walked out on the street to the car. He whirled on Dean and laid him out flat on his ass with a solid punch to the face.
"You son of a Bitch!" Charles growled through his teeth.
"Ugh!, shit that hurts!" Dean moaned in pain. He cupped his bloody nose gingerly and winced. "Dude, I think you broke my nose." He struggled to get up but fell back down. "Why the hell did you hit me? What was that for?"
"Get up you bastard." Charles threatened.
"Dude, Chill!" Dean pleaded. "What the hell is your problem?"
"I said get up!" Charles said with visible threat in his grey eyes.
"Why?" Dean said as he lay sprawled out on the ground. "You're just gonna kick my ass again. For the second time, what is your problem?"
Charles leaned down grabbing Dean up in his chest by his shirt collar. His jaw clenched with anger and he looked straight into Deans eyes. "Cassie is special Dean. She's special and I love her. This isn't some high school fling you and I can compete over. This is different. Things have changed."
"Cassie?" Dean snickered. "This is about Cassie?" Dean said unbelievably. "Dude, what the hell are you talking about? I haven't done a damn thing."
"She's my fiancee Dean!" he threatened. "Mine and hell will freeze over before I let you come between us." He let go suddenly, letting dean fall back to the ground as he turned on his heels and walked off.
"Hey!" Dean yelled. "How am I gonna get home? What about my nose?" Dean begged as Charles got into his car.
"WALK!" Charles said as he sped off.
Charles woke from a deep sleep at 2:30 in the morning to the sound of someone pounding on his door. He woke up dazed, confused and startled. Who in the hell could be knocking on his door at this hour? He jumped out of bed and ran to the door. He searched the peep hole and let out a audible frustrated breath. Great, it was Dean. He jerked the door open.
"What the hell do you want?" he asked.
Dean stood there looking like death warmed over. His nose was all bandaged and taped. He held up both hands, "Chuck, look, just hear me out man. Just hear me out."
He had heard enough excuses. Charles shook his head in disgust and started to close the door in Dean's face but Dean stuck his foot in the opening.
"Dude, come on. Seriously, you don't want to do this." Dean stated. "Come on Chuck, you know me man. It's me Dean, your bro. You're like a brother to me. You're being ridiculous. Please, just give me five minutes to explain." he begged.
"Why should I?" Charles argued. "So you can talk your way out of it and pretend you don't know what's going on? Your right Dean. I know you. I've known you for years and I know what your capable of." Charles accused.
"Chuck, this is different. You're supposed to be my friend but your accusing and interrogating me. I know you wanna kill me but give me a chance to explain before you slug me again."
Charles opened the door and let him in. "Alright, your five minutes starts now." Charles said blatantly.
"Chuck, you've got this thing all mixed up and backwards. Look, I know you think I've got some kind of weird and screwed up obsession with your girlfriend but you're wrong. She's a great girl but I would never try anything with Cassie and that's the honest truth. You gotta believe that man."
"Do you think I'm an idiot?" Charles questioned angrily. "Did you think I wouldn't notice you shaking her hand and not letting go. You hugging her and pulling out chairs for her? You think I haven't noticed the way you look at her? I've seen you do some messed up things to a lot of people but this is an all time low, even for you. How could I have been so stupid?" he asked himself, shaking his head and looking up at the ceiling.
"Dude, with all the women in this town, do you honestly think I'd go after my bro's girl? Honestly, I think Cassie's great but she's not exactly my type. She's one of those good girls."
"That's not funny." Charles said as a paced back and forth eyeing Dean suspiciously. Trying to find some measure of truth to Dean's story.
"Hey, don't take it so personal. I think she's great and the perfect girl for you but I'm still the same guy you knew from before. I'm a confirmed bachelor and I mean to stay that way. Girls like Cassie have expectations I don't even wanna think about living up to. I just wanted to find out a little bit about this girl whose got you all whipped and bent outta shape."
Charles didn't like that one bit. "I'm not whipped." He had to laugh despite his anger. It wasn't the first time someone had accused him of being whipped. He fell in love and all of a sudden everyone wanted to peg him as whipped. Maybe he had overreacted. Dean was his one true friend who knew things about him no one else knew.
Dean laughed along with him. "Well, you may not be whipped but you sure as hell are jealous and possessive as hell."
Charles pointed his finger at his chest. "You think I'm jealous?...Me?" he chuckled. "It's not like that, I guess I just overreacted."
"Dude, your so jealous it's coming out of your ears and your vibrating with it." Dean mocked. "Yep, it's official. You truly are in love." Dean laughed.
"Sorry about your nose. Is it broken?" Charles asked. "By the way, how did you get back to your hotel room?" Charles questioned.
"Nice of you to finally ask." Dean punched him teasingly in the chest and put him in a mock choke hold. "Yeah, it's broken and I had to walk until I eventually found a cab to take me to the hospital. But don't worry about it. It's not the first time some love sick guys punched me in the nose and accused me of stealing his girl." Dean teased as he jumped up on the sofa and threw both feet up with his arms crossed behind his head. "Now that that's settled, what time is the party? he asked.
Charles shook his head. "What party?"
"The one we're having this weekend." Dean warned him.
Honestly, Dean was impossible but you couldn't help but like the guy. "Thanks for warning me." Charles said.
Dean smiled. "Just a little party. Something to help me remember LA. Besides, I've only been here a few days and the only thing I have to show for it is a trip to the hospital and a broken nose. Thanks to my best friend." he said sarcastically.
Charles sighed.
"Come on. Live a little Chuckster. At least give me a change to fulfill my three wishes before I leave LA."
"Three wishes..?" Charles was confused.
Dean looked at him strangely as if he should know what they were. "Dude,...the three wishes. Drink beer, pay for an over priced LA lap dance and chase some tail."
Charles just laughed and shook his head. "Man, you need some serious help." he said. "Goodnight."
STORY 1/SCENE 8
"Bye mom. See you later." Lizzie spat out as she rushed out the front door, in a hurry to meet Andrew to walk to school.
Jenn stood in the middle of the kitchen with one hand on her waist and a bowl of hot oatmeal in the other. "Lizzie, what about breakfast?" Jenn questioned.
Lizzie barely spared a seconds glance back, "Sorry mom. I'm late and Andrew's waiting on me."
Tay ran downstairs and rushed past Lizzie, nearly knocking her down. "Later people." he muttered.
"Excuse you Tay." Lizzie said angrily.
"TAY!, Jenn called out, remember what I said about watching your diet." she said to herself as Tay was long gone out the door. Too far gone to hear a word she said. Jenn set the bowl of oatmeal down hard on the table, crossed her arms and stared at the front door with a confused look on her face.
Cassie scrambled around the kitchen grabbing books, her jacket and back pack in a hurry. She gulped her orange juice standing up.
"We do have chairs Cassie." Jenn pointed out."And please don't let your oatmeal get cold."
"Got to go mom! Not hungry." Cassie said. Rushing out the door as Charles blew his car horn outside.
Jenn let out a frustrated breath. She noticed Cassie's purse sitting on the table and raced behind her. "Cassie?" Jenn called out as Cassie climbed into Charles's car.
Cassie turned quickly. "Mom, I'm not hungry. I gotta go."
Jenn held the purse up, swinging it from her fingers. "You forgot your purse."
Cassie made a u turn and grabbed her purse. "Oh, sorry. Thanks mom."
Jenn glanced around the silent kitchen. Everyone in her family was so preoccupied lately. Rushing out the door, grabbing a mouthful of breakfast on the run whenever they could. Her kids were growing up and they weren't so dependent on Mommy anymore, Jenn thought sadly. Cassie was engaged. Lizzie had her first real relationship and Tay was totally wrapped up in his music. Ever since Eddie got his new partner, he was always running late. He never seemed to want to get out of bed anymore. Always dragging and unprepared, rushing out the door at the last minute.
As if on cue, Eddie came into the kitchen searching the counters and cabinets frantically.
"Honey, what did you loose this time?" Jenn accused.
"I can't find my keys. I know I left them right here on the counter last night." Eddie said frustratingly.
"Where's the last place you had them?" Jenn asked, trying to be helpful and help Eddie retrace his steps.
"Jenn, if I knew the answer to that I wouldn't be looking for them." he said impatiently.
"Alright." Jenn conceded. "They've got to be around here somewhere. I'll check upstairs and you check the trash."
"What would my keys be doing in the trash?" Eddie questioned.
"They've been found in worst places before." Jenn pointed out sarcastically.
"Yeah, you're right. I think somebody has been misplacing my things lately. Nothing is ever where I leave it." Eddie accused. Unwilling to admit he'd been a little frazzled and unorganized lately.
Jenn paused in mid stride on the stairwell steps and turned. "Yeah I know that somebody. His name is Eddie."
She checked everywhere in their bedroom. Something told her to pop open the medicine cabinet. She shook her head humorously, grabbing Eddie's keys.
"Eddie!?" Jenn yelled as she ran downstairs.
"Please tell me you found them." Eddie pleaded.
Jenn dropped the keys into his hands. "If your head weren't connected, you'd loose that to." she smiled.
Eddie laughed and kissed her. "We'll, you said that's what you always wanted. My head on a platter." he joked. He rushed out the door, late as usual.
Lizzie searched the hallways with wide eyes. She'd walked to school alone this morning. Andrew hadn't showed up. Finally spotting him at his locker, Lizzie approached smiling. She kissed him on the cheek.
"Hey. What happened? Did you forget about me?" she laughed. "Earth to Andrew," she said when he didn't respond right away.
Andrew studied her face for a few minutes before he spoke. He glared at her. "I thought you said your dad didn't like you walking alone since you were kidnapped?"
"He doesn't." Lizzie confirmed. "He doesn't think it's safe but I told him you and I were walking together." Lizzie said reluctantly, sensing Andrew's impending attitude. "I waited for you and you didn't show up. You could have called."
Lizzie flinched as Andrew slammed his locker. "Really!" Andrew yelled. "You weren't worried about safety when you snuk to my mom's house." Andrew confronted and walked off.
Lizzie ran after him. "Andrew...."she called out as he purposely ignored her and kept walking. She fought her way through the hallway eventually grabbing him by the forearm. "Please don't be upset. I was just trying to help."
Andrew yanked free of her hold and pointed his finger in her face."Lizzie, I asked you not to get involved and you lied to me and went behind my back. Sister Lizzie Sutton to the rescue." he said. Taunting and ridiculing her good nature to always help people. She's my mom and I want you to stay out of it." he said angrily. His voice rising with each angry sentence. People stopped and stared in the hallway.
Lizzie glanced around embarrassingly as students whispered and snicked in the hallway. Overhearing she and Andrew's argument.
"I'm sorry I lied but I just wanted to help you. Maybe I can talk to my mom about some programs that could help your mom. Andrew...she's sick. You can't just pretend that she's not."
Andrew stared at her silently. Lizzie had deliberately lied to him and secretly visited his mom. His mom had been sick for a very long time now. Financial problems had led her to drink. She'd lost her job at the bank and financial debt and burdens had
piled up. They'd lost everything they owned. House, car, friends. One small drink had led to many small drinks. Right before his eyes, before he even realized it, his mom had become an alcoholic. At first she was your typical closet, functioning alcohol. She'd managed to still catch odd jobs here and there and still managed to maintain her household, but now, their home life was in shambles. The bill collectors called at all hours of the day. His mom found solace and comfort in a bottle. She never ate. She never took care of herself. She drank her problems away one bottle at a time. He was ashamed to admit it but she didn't even look like his mother anymore. His mother was a beautiful spirited woman. The alcohol had turned her into a shadow of her former self. Frail, thin, weak and unresponsive. He tried to care for her the best he could but it grew harder everyday. With each passing day she drank more and more. He was so scared. He was terrified he would loose his mom. Of course, their friends and family members had tried to briefly intervene but how much intervention could you force on a full grown adult woman. Deep down inside he wanted to accept Lizzie's help but he was afraid of what would happen to his mom. What would happen to him. His cousins had threatened to call social services if his mom didn't get her act together. They accused her of not providing and caring for him because she was an alcoholic. His mom was to wrapped up in her own insecurities right now to accept help from anyone.
"Lizzie, don't get involved. Please, can't you just not get involved. Just this once. You can't help everyone Lizzie. Don't worry about me." he said sincerely. "I'll figure something out." he said with a weak smile and walked away.
Dana approached Jenn at the nurses triage station at the clinic. "Hey Jenn." she smiled and yawned.
"Dana...Hey." Jenn smiled. "Hey, stop that yawning. You know that's contagious." she laughed.
"I'm sorry." Dana apologized. "I had a late night last night."
Jenn smiled wickedly. "Really, so you're dating again. Good for you."
Dana put both hands on her hip. "It is not that kinda party Jenn. Besides, there are tons of things us women can do to have fun without a man. I've had my fill of men for right now. Trust me, once you get use to being alone, eventually you'll learn to like being alone."
"I'm sorry Dana. You don't have to explain." Jenn stated.
Dana laughed and started gathering her work supplies for the day. She was so grateful to Jenn for helping her land this job. They hadn't been the best of friends in the past but thanks to Nate, she and Jenn had called a truce. They would probably never be bosom buddies but they could actually talk and laugh with each other now. It was nice having someone to talk to.
"Nothing to explain Jenn. Trust me, you're not prying into anything. My girl group and I had movie night last night. Just me and a couple of my girlfriends. We hang out every now and then just to unwind and have some fun. You know, talk about girl stuff. We were out kinda late last night. That's why I'm exhausted"
"Wow!, sounds like fun. A woman needs a little girl time." Jenn admitted
"Ain't that the truth." Dana laughed. She stared at Jenn thoughtfully. "You should join us sometime Jenn. It'll be fun. Plus it'll get you out of the house. I know your a wife and a mother but you're still a woman." Dana pointed out.
"I don't know Dana." Jenn hesitated awkwardly. "I mean...You and I hanging out...together?!" Jenn questioned.
Dana pursed her lips and cocked her head to the side. "I'm not asking to be your best friend Jenn. Just offering a little friendly companionship between some girls." That's all. Like I said, it's a lot of fun and we have a great time." Dana counted out on her fingers. "We have movie nights, we get spa treatments, sometimes we get makeovers and sometimes we just go dancing. Just fun stuff. Nothing to get uptight about but suit yourself. In case you change your mind, we're meeting again on Friday." Dana walked away to start her cleaning rounds in the clinic.
Jenn sat at the nurses station as she checked patients medicine schedules. "Hmm!" she thought. "A women's group. Girl's night out. Maybe she did need some girl time. It did sound like fun but with Dana?!" she just wasn't sure.
Charles and Cassie stood in Mrs. Fosters English class waiting for the bell to start class. Charles stood holding Cassie. His hands circling and spanning her narrow waist. "I miss you. We haven't been alone since the night of our engagement party. You wanna come over to my place later?" Charles asked.
"Oh!...Charles...I..." Cassie tried to talk between Charles stealing kisses and interrupting her.
"Mmm!, ...You smell good." Charles said as he framed her face in his warm hands.
Cassie smiled bashfully and put her finger up against his lips. Effectively stopping him from stealing anymore kisses and lavishing her with sweet talk.
"I miss you to." she said. "But I can't. I promised Sage I'd work for her today and she's covering my shift tomorrow." Cassie explained sadly.
Charles frowned. "You didn't tell me you decided to work today. When did you and Sage decide this?" Charles asked anxiously.
Cassie chuckled. "Charles, you sound like a possessive, jealous husband." she teased.
Charles squeezed her waist. "I am possessive." he admitted reluctantly. He pulled her closer and looked at her with possession and need. "I miss you so much baby!" he planted a firm wet kiss to her lips. He smiled when he saw her blush.
Cassie could hardly wait to be alone with him. He was so handsome when he smiled like that. And he was right, they did need some alone time. "We'll have some time tomorrow. I promise." she kissed him
Claire walked into class, completely self conscious of the way every girl stared at her and sized her up as she entered. She approached Charles and Cassie. "What does a girl have to do to gain some friends around here. I'm beginning to think every girl in this school is a mean girl. Besides you Cassie." she smiled.
"Hey. Don't pay any attention to them. They're just feeling you out because your still new." Cassie said.
"Claire right?" Charles confirmed
"Yeah, you remembered." Claire laughed. "So, where's your friend?" Claire asked sinfully.
Charles eyebrows went up. "Who,...Dean,...ah, I'll probably see him later."
Claire swooned with her eyes rolling in her head."He's hot!. Can you put in a good word for me?" she begged Charles.
"I totally didn't notice you were interested in him." Cassie joked.
"Stay away from him!" Charles blurted out a little to forcefully and unexpectedly. He and Dean had squashed their argument over Cassie. They had shook hands and made good on their friendship but he still had a niggling suspicious doubt on Dean's true intentions. He couldn't afford to take a chance. He wasn't completely comfortable with Cassie and her friends being around Dean. He certainly didn't want any of Cassie's friends getting involved with him. Dean ate good girls for breakfast. He would have no qualms using Claire and returning to Seattle. He figured better safe than sorry.
Both Cassie and Claire noticed Charles's offensive attitude toward Dean. Cassie glanced at him with a questioning look on her face. Charles tried to explain his aggression. "It's just that he's only in town for a few weeks. No sense getting involved with someone who's just passing through." Charles explained.
"That's okay. Maybe it's for the best. My dad would probably kill me if I dated a white guy." she said more harshly than she intended. Cassie and Charles looked uncomfortable with her comment and tensed up. Claire glanced from Charles back to Cassie, "Oh!!!!, it's not like that guys. Trust me, skin color doesn't bother me. I'm not a racist but my dad's old school. He just wouldn't understand.
Cassie smiled. "It's okay Claire. But Charles is right. Dean's not here to stay. Besides, Charles has some single friends I'm dying to introduce you to." Cassie smiled.
"That's a great idea." Charles acknowledged and grinned. "Dean and I are having a party this Friday and my friends Emillio and David will be there. You should come and meet them." Charles offered.
"What party?" Cassie interrupted. This was a surprise. She didn't know anything about a party. "You planned a party without me?" Cassie asked with raised eyebrows. "When did You and Dean plan this. You should have told me."
Charles cleared his throat and tugged on a strand of Cassie's hair. "Cassie, you sound like a possessive,jealous wife." he teased.
Cassie jabbed him playfully in the chest. "Very funny Charles." she laughed.
Lizzie walked home with Kayla and Shaunice.
"Lizzie, don't worry you and Andrew will kiss and make-up. What exactly were you arguing about anyway?" said Kayla.
"It's personal. I don't want to talk about it." Lizzie said.
"Wanna stop at the revolution and grab a a quick bite?" Shaunice asked. "Lizzie, do you think your sister can hook us up, give us a discount?"
"I don't know." Lizzie said rudely. "Depends on what kind of mood she's in. You know what...., Lizzie paused and stopped walking. Letting Shaunice and Kayla walk ahead of her, ..I'm not hungry and I'm kind of tired. Why don't you two go ahead." Lizzie was so irritated. All she could think about was Andrew. She'd made up her mind to talk to her mom for some advice on helping Mrs. Gonzalez. Her mom would know what to do. Who to talk to. She wasn't in a chatting mood and she didn't want to go to the revolution cafe.
"No Lizzie." Kayla demanded. "You never hang out with us anymore. You're coming with us and that's final. You've got to stop worrying about Andrew. It's gonna be okay. Come hang out with us. Please."
Lizzie gave up. She smiled. "Okay but just for a few minutes."
Cassie waited on Lizzie and her friends table. "What can I get you Lizzie? "And you better have money for all this stuff your ordering." Cassie said angrily and rolled her eyes.
"Don't worry waitress . We'll be sure to leave you a small tip." Lizzie snickered. Kayla and Shaunice bust out laughing. Lizzie had a good time with her friends. It was just what she needed. A good laugh and something to take her mind off of Andrew. He told her to not interfere but that was not going to happen. She wasn't going to sit back and watch.
Ten more minutes and it was quiting time for Cassie. She busied herself with counting her register and restocking coffee supplies while she waited for her shift to end. Lizzie and her friends had irritated the hell out of her with their jokes and badgering. She hated serving them. They complained about everything they ordered and expected discounts. She couldn't wait to go home.
"What's a guy got to do to get a cup of coffee around here?" a customer asked.
Cassie turned to face and greet her customer and was surprised to see Dean. "Dean!, hey you." she smiled. "What are you doing here?" "Where's Charles?" she asked, scanning the room for him with her eyes.
"Oh no. Chuck's not with me. I was just in the area headed back to my hotel and decided to drop in. Chuck says this place has some of the best coffee." he bragged. "I was going to call him but I got tied up helping my dad today." he explained.
"Oh, okay." Cassie said. "So, what do you think of the Heights so far?"
"It's great. A lot different from Seattle. It's dry." he joked. "Hey, did chuck tell you about the party? It's gonna be wild." he grinned. "The banquet hall at the hotel is huge so we should have lots of room to party." Dean rubbed his hands together emphasizing his excitement.
"Yeah, my friends and I will be there. I wouldn't miss it." Cassie smiled. "Let me get your latte before I leave. My shifts almost over."
Dean smiled and sat to drink his coffee. So he'd purposely shown up on Cassie's job to see if she was working. Seriously, as a guy, who could blame him. Lucky for him Cassie's shift was almost over. He hadn't had any trouble finding the Revolution Cafe. He knew exactly where Cassie worked. Chuck had mentioned it many times. If he was honest with himself, and it was high time he was, he had to admit that he'd lied and told Chuck exactly what he wanted to hear regarding his intentions toward Cassie. He'd convinced him that his intentions were strictly innocent and friendly when that couldn't have been further from the truth. He asked himself 3 simple questions. Was he attracted to Cassie? Yes. Was Chuck his friend and did he care about him? Yes. Would his friendship for Chuck stop him from pursuing Cassie? No! He wasn't sure if this was strictly a competition thing between he and Chuck but there was something about Cassie. Her smile, her voice, her personality. He could sit there drinking coffee staring at her all day. She was beautiful. No offense against Chuck but she wasn't Mrs. Charles Antoni yet. He drew the line at married women. As far as he was concerned, until Chuck made it legal and official, Cassie was fair game and up for the taking.
Dean watched Cassie as she headed out the door when she got off and followed her. "Can I give you a lift home?" he offered conveniently.
"No, it's okay. I'll take the bus." Cassie refused
"Chuck would kill me if he ever found out I left you at a bus stop and didn't offer to take you home." he stated "It's really no trouble. Come on. Hop in." he said convincingly.
Cassie smiled. "Sure, why not."
Dean opened the door to his rental car for her. "Madam, your chariot awaits." he teased and smiled.
Cassie reached for her seat belt but before she could fasten it Dean brushed her fingers aside and buckled her in himself. His hands lingered on her waist longer than necessary.
Dean heard Cassie's nervous indrawn breath and sensed her unease and discomfort and tried to explain. "Safety first." he persisted. Cassie folded her arms nervously as Dean drove with his arm behind her seat's head rest. Effectively cocooning her in the small confines of his sports car rental. As they stopped at a traffic light, Dean took advantage of the opportunity to lean over and take something from the glove box, making sure to gently brush Cassie's knees with his hands, but making it look like an accident. "Excuse me. I'm sorry." he apologized.
Cassie was very uncomfortable. She was so very uncomfortable. The more she got to know Dean, the more she grew to dislike him. She wasn't sure what his game was but she didn't like it. She couldn't wait to get out of that car. As soon as they pulled up outside her house, she jumped out of the car and raced into the house. "Thanks again." she yelled back hurriedly. "Bye."
Dean knew Cassie had been nervous and uncomfortable but that's what he'd wanted. He'd driven as slowly as possible, trying to extend the ride to her house. He hadn't turned on the radio because he wanted to increase the tension of her being alone with him in complete silence. She'd avoided looking at him with her nervous eyes. He wanted to make her aware of him. She might be uncomfortable but at least she was aware of his intentions. He was sure she was now. He thought he'd made his intentions pretty clear. Dean drove away. He'd see her at the party. A little dancing, a little alcohol. Things were bound to happen.
STORY 1/SCENE 9
Lizzie knocked on Jenn and Eddie's bedroom door.
"Come in" Jenn called out
Lizzie cracked the door and peeped in. "Mom..., Lizzie said nervously, her eyes darting to Eddie, Can I talk to you. In private, shed added."
"Lizzie, honey it's time for bed. Can this wait until morning?"Jenn asked
"Please" Lizzie said.
Eddie sighed impatiently and crawled out of bed. He laughed with a comical look on his face. "In private." he teased. "This better not have any thing to do with Andrew." he said as he left the room.
Jenn patted the bed and motioned for Lizzie to sit. "Everything okay?" she asked
Lizzie shook her head helplessly. "I kind of need your help." she said sadly
"Okay" Jenn said comfortingly
Lizzie seemed a little hesitant.
Jenn suspected she was having boy trouble. "Is this about Andrew?" she questioned with a smile on her face.
"Yes...but it's not what you think. It's not a boy thing. I'm not exactly ready for that mother/daughter talk." Lizzie said bashfully. "It's Andrew's mom." Lizzie explained
Jenn sat up with an attentive look. Andrew's Mom. What could Lizzie possibly want to discuss regarding Andrew's mom.
"Okay, what is it Lizzie?" Jenn probed
"Andrew's mom is sick and he won't let me help him. Mom, I don't know what to do. I know he's scared."
"Sick...."Jenn questioned for more detail
"She's an alcoholic and she won't get help. Mom, I went to her house and she's really sick. Andrew begged me not to but I went anyway. She's so thin and she could barely stand up. The house was trashed. Isn't there something you can do for her at the clinic?" Lizzie pleaded
Jenn pursed her lips and rubbed Lizzie's arms to comfort her. Does Andrew have family here, maybe family friends who could talk to his mom?"
"I don't know....I mean I guess so...but aren't there programs and support groups? Lizzie asked
"Well, the first step is getting her to acknowledge the problem. We cant force her to commit to anything." Jenn stated
"But Mom!,...you're a nurse ,...you work with doctors everyday. There's got to be something we can do." Lizzie wailed
Jenn grabbed Lizzie's hand and squeezed it. "Honey, I'll do whatever I can but Mrs. Gonzalez is an adult. She's a grown woman. She can't be forced into anything. Now, if you think Andrew is being harmed or neglected in any way then the department of social services will have to get involved."
"Mom!," Lizzie begged. "No!. you can't."
"Lizzie, I'm a nurse and if Andrew isn't being cared for,neglected in any way, I have a moral obligation to investigate and report it. Alcoholism is a disease Lizzie. This isn't something Mrs. Gonzalez will be able to overcome overnight.The priority right now is to make sure she's taking care of herself and Andrew. If she can't care for herself,...how can she possibly take care of Andrew." Jenn explained
Lizzie jumped off of the bed. "I'm sorry I told you." she said angrily. "You're just gonna make it worst." she yelled. Lizzie turned with tears in her eyes toward the door.
Jenn got up and blocked the door. "Lizzie, I'm not going to do anything to hurt Andrew. I promise. Okay. We'll get some information on private and local support groups and then you and I will pay Mrs. Gonzalez a visit. Okay?" Jenn promised.
"What if she doesn't accept our help?" Lizzie asked.
"Then we'll find another way. But this is a start. If it doesn't work we'll figure something out. I promise." Jenn smiled.
"Thanks mom." Lizzie smiled and hugged Jenn. "Goodnight."
Cassie couldn't sleep. She sat cross legged in her bed thinking about the ride home this afternoon. She didn't trust Dean.She was sure she had read his intentions. She was sure of it. How do you tell your fiance his best friend was coming on to you? She knew she wasn't overreacting but would Charles see it that way. She couldn't forget the way Dean had looked at her. It made her sick to her stomach. It had been the longest car ride of her life. She had to talk to Charles. She had to tell him. What kind of fiancee would she be if she didn't. She had to tell Charles about her suspicions.
She dialed Charles's number.
"Hey beautiful. We were just talking about you." Charles said.
"Hey Cassie." she heard Dean yell in the background.
"Is Dean there?" she asked Charles
"Yeah, we were just hangin, watchin the game. What's up?" Charles asked
Great. Cassie thought. She couldn't talk to him now. Dean was a snake if she ever saw one. How could he sit there with Charles so innocently as if nothing happened. What kind of game was he playing? Dean was Charles's friend and maybe Charles was in denial and just couldn't see Dean's true nature. Maybe he didn't want to see it but Dean was up to no good. "Nothing,...just wanted to hear your voice." Cassie lied. "I didn't realize you had company."
"I miss you to." Charles said. "By the way, don't forget about our alone time." Charles whispered on the phone so Dean couldn't hear. "You're not working tomorrow right?" he asked
"No." Cassie said. "I haven't forgotten."
Dean and Charles started yelling and screaming. Really getting into the game. Cassie could tell he was preoccupied with the game.
"I'll let you get back to your game. I'll see you tomorrow. Love you." she said.
"Love you babe. bye" Charles said.
Story1 / Scene 10 The Next Day at School. This Scene Contains Mature Adult Content. Reader Discretion Is Advised.
Cassie sat in the cafeteria eating lunch with Stacy and Claire. Stacy's girlfriend Melissa came over to talk and gave Stacy a kiss on the lips as she left. Claire spit her soft drink out in wide eyed surprise.
"Sorry" she apologized as she cleaned herself up.
"I guess I forgot to tell you, ...I'm gay!" Stacy proclaimed loudly. Upset that Claire was obviously uncomfortable with her being gay. Stacy stared at Claire with her arms folded in a defensive posture. Cassie sat silently, at a loss for words. She should have mentioned it to Claire.
"Sorry guys. Don't mind me, ...you just caught me off guard that's all. Wow, I've been hanging out with you and Cassie for more than a week now and I never noticed you were gay." Claire said awkwardly
"You never noticed." Stacy said sarcastically. She rolled her eyes. "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Stacy demanded. "Am I suppose to send out a certain single or look a certain way. Sorry sweetheart, but I don't walk around with a big G on my chest. Sorry I didn't warn you. Don't worry, I'm not gonna come on to you. You're so not my type." Stacy slammed her books on the table and ate in silence.
Cassie tried to intervene. "Guys, it's not that serious. It's no big deal. Can we please stop arguing. This is stupid. Stacy, I'm sure Claire doesn't have a problem with you being gay. Let's just forget about it."
"I'm sorry Stacy. I could care less what your sexual preference is." Claire admitted. "Honestly, you just suprised me. I didn't see it coming and you caught me off guard." Claire said as she smiled.
"I'm sorry I yelled at you." Stacy apologized. "When you're in my position, you get used to being on the defensive. Melissa and I have to put up with a lot of crap. Sorry I went off on you."Stacy said
Cassie was so engrossed in conversation and laughing with her friends she didn't notice Charles approaching. He grabbed her hand and kissed her cheek, surprising her.
"Hey beautiful. I though you were gonna meet me at your locker." Charles said. He smiled at Stacy and Claire. "Hi ladies."
"I'm sorry. I forgot." Cassie said.
"Come on. Let's go." Charles said, pulling Cassie from her seat by her hand.
"Charles!...Go where?...What are you doing?" Cassie questioned. She pulled away from him with a confused look on her face.
"Come on. Don't worry about it. We're leaving. Come on. Get your stuff." Charles explained as he started gathering Cassie's books.
"We're leaving?" Cassie questioned with wide eyed surprise. "What are you talking about Charles?" Cassie demanded. "I'm eating. I haven't even finished my lunch." Cassie said. She stared at Charles like he had lost his mind.
"No, not the cafeteria. We're really leaving. Come on. You don't have any test today so you won't miss anything. Let's go." he said. Charles pulled her up by the hand and pushed her chair in just in case she decided to try and sit again. He grabbed her by the waist and pulled her close. "I wasn't kidding about our alone time." he whispered in her ear.
Cassie looked up into his eyes, finally acknowledging his meaning. "Oh!" she exclaimed. "You mean leave, like leave school." she said. Cassie started shaking her head in refusal. Unsure about leaving school. "Charles I don't know about this. What if someone finds out." she said worriedly, pulling away from him in vain. "Maybe we should just wait until after school. We'll have some time to ourselves then." she said convincingly. Cassie looked around nervously, "This isn't a good idea. I think we..."
Charles ended Cassie's tirade the best way he knew how. He kissed her forcefully on the lips. Putting an end to her refusal. Effectively silencing her the best way he knew how. "No more talking." he whispered against her lips. "You're coming with me." Charles persisted
Claire and Stacy stared wide eyed and opened mouthed as Charles pulled Cassie away. Wow!, Charles really was a knight in shining armor.
Charles wanted to create the perfect day for Cassie. This was their first real time alone since becoming engaged. He just wanted to be alone with her. His fiancee. Cassie resisted every step of the way. She had a million questions. Charles ignored her and put her into his car and leaned over to buckle her seat belt. Cassie flinched, stared at his hands and looked away, refusing to meet his eyes. It reminded her of the seat belt incident with Dean. Charles noticed her sudden apprehension.
"You okay?" he asked thoughtfully
Cassie replied without looking at him. "I'm fine" she lied.
Charles tilted her face up to meet his eyes. He forced her to look at him. "I love you." he said. He kissed her softly.
Charles started their day at Cassie's favorite downtown art gallery. She was so excited. "Oh my God Charles!, I haven't been here in months." she hugged him, looking around the gallery with sincere appreciation. Most guys wouldn't spend their day in a boring art gallery but Charles did his best to comment on some of the collections and share in her enthusiasm. She loved him for that.
They had lunch in the park where Cassie asked Charles to marry her. Charles made sure he chose the exact spot. Everything was perfect. They had a picnic basket with delicious cheese, an assortment of fresh fruit and lemonade. They had lunch and sat on the grass talking and laughing. Cassie traced Charles's lips as he lay with his head in her lap. She couldn't believe he had planned all this. Charles reached up and drew her face down to his for a soft kiss. "I thought I'd never get you out here. You fought me the whole way." he laughed
"I'm sorry. This is quite a surprise. This is wonderful Charles." she said. She leaned down and planted a quick kiss to his lips.
Charles took hold of her hand and brought it to his lips for a kiss. He sat up and smoothed her hair away from her face. "The day isn't over yet." he smiled.
Cassie stood outside Charles's apartment, blindfolded and patiently waiting. He had another surprise and he wanted everything just right before she entered. "Charles!" she called excitingly. What was he up to now? She could hear soft music coming through the door. She couldn't wait to see. "Can I please come in now?" she called through the door. She knocked on the door softly. Charles opened the door suddenly. She couldn't see him but she felt his big hands take her shoulders and maneuver her into the apartment. He stood behind her and removed her blindfold. Cassie was overwhelmed by a room over flowing with light candles, dim lights, rose petals and soothing soft music.
(Before reading any further, Please play the youtube video below to hear Charles and Cassie's Song. Listen to the song as you read the remaining story. Thanks.) 
07 - Whenever Wherever Whatever.mp3
There were rose petals everywhere. On the floor, the chairs, ...everywhere. There was a huge framed picture of her and Charles from their engagement party. The room was beautiful. Cassie choked back a sob, covering her mouth with both hands and fought back tears. She turned to Charles and threw her arms around his neck, holding him tightly. "This is so beautiful." she smiled as her eyes misted over. "I love you so much Charles." she whispered through a river of tears, unable to hold them back anymore. She was to overwhelmed and happy to speak clearly.
Charles took both her hands in his and kissed her. He placed his forehead against hers and smiled. "Surprised?, Are you happy?" he asked.
Cassie placed her face against his. "I'm speechless. This is so beautiful." she smiled
Charles touched her lips with his fingertips and stared at her lovingly. "I was hoping this could be our song." he said
"Yes, it's beautiful" Cassie agreed. She placed her hands flat on his warm chest. He felt so good.
Charles circled her waist with his hands and pulled her close for a slow, attentive kiss. The kiss went on and on, leaving Cassie breathless. "Mmm,...you taste good." he said as his voice dropped to a low intimate octave. Cassie blushed, hiding her face against Charles's chest. Charles tilted her chin up with his finger and coaxed her mouth back to his. Cassie stretched up on her toes to meet his kiss. She felt the door at her back as Charles forced her against it with his hands on either side of her head, trapping her against the door. He pressed his full body against hers.
In the heat of the moment Cassie hesitated, trying to pull her mouth away. "Charles..." she said with her hands flat against his chest, trying to get his attention. "Your mom....I thought she was ....coming home this weekend." She didn't want to be caught in a compromising situation. She could hardly get a word in with Charles kissing her. He was relentless. She talked between kisses, turning her head away from him, fighting to get each word in. Everywhere her face turned he was there. He tunneled his fingers in her long black hair and turned her face where he wanted.
"Sunday." Charles answered impatiently with one quick word and continued to kiss her. He nipped at her mouth. "Open your mouth baby." he muttered huskily, emphasizing his request with his mouth brushing against hers. Cassie obeyed with a slight whimper. She moaned helplessly as Charles plundered her mouth. She couldn't wait to be with him. She toyed with the buttons on his shirt. She wanted to touch him. Open his shirt. Charles grabbed her wrist and caught her fingers. Persuading her to unbutton his shirt. Cassie undid the first few buttons but hesitated shyly. Charles laughed and brushed her fingers aside, finishing the job himself. "Chicken." he teased. "Don't over think this. It's suppose to be fun remember. Don't be afraid to touch me." he said light heartedly. He removed his shirt and pulled her up against him completely. Cassie couldn't help but stare and caress his muscular chest. His jeans hung low on his hips and his abs were rock hard to the touch. His arms slid around her, undoing the buttons on the back of her dress. He wrapped his arms around her waist and gently lifted her. With her feet barely touching the floor, Charles turned and walked with her into his bedroom. He stared up into her eyes as he let her slide back down his body. His hands moved up and down her back and her unbuttoned dress fell in a puddle to the floor.
Charles ran his eyes up and down her figure. He looked at her with possession and desire in his eyes, making her feel like the most beautiful woman in the world. She was beautiful and she belonged to him. He stepped forward and cupped her face in his hands. "You are so damn beautiful." he whispered against her temple. He gave her a toe curling kiss as they fell to the bed.
Cassie could barely breath with Charles's touch. His Kiss. His kisses were gentle, soft, wet and forceful. She would never grow tired of his touch. Never grow tired of looking at him. He was a gorgeous, sensual man. She wanted his touch. She caressed his back, loving the feel of his warm skin. The smell of his cologne.
Charles caught her around the waist and shifted onto his back, rolling her on top of him. Cassie gasped with the unexpected newness. "Charles!" she exclaimed.
"I want you to control the pace this time." he replied. He sat up with her sitting astride his waist and reached behind her to unfasten her bra. He stared at her intently. "Why do you bother with this thing?" he teased and kissed her on the forehead. "It just gets in my way." he smiled.
Cassie tried in vain to cover herself up by crossing her arms. They'd made love before but this was different. It was broad daylight and the lights were dim with candles light. This was still fairly new to her. Now that she was his fiancee she didn't feel as guilty about touching him, lying in bed with him, making love with him but she couldn't help but feel a little timid. Charles wouldn't hear of it. He grabbed her hands and nuzzled her neck, touched her soft skin. "I want you." he muttered desperately, caressing her thighs ever so lightly. He lay back against the pillows and reached over to the nightstand drawer, his smoldering eyes never once leaving her face. He finally had her alone and all to himself. Finally, some well earned alone time. He pulled her close and blew out the candles.
STORY 1/SCENE 11
Cassie, Stacey and Claire all stood in Cassie's bedroom dressing for tonight's party. Everyone was talking about it. What started as a small gathering for a few people soon blossomed into a full blown party. The entire school was abuzz with news of the party. Cassie had to find the perfect outfit. Charles and Dean were hosting the party and she wanted to look extra special for him.
"Okay seriously, Cassie that's the fifth outfit you've tried. Make up your mind already." Claire urged."You're going to look great regardless of what you wear. Just choose one."
"That's easy for you to say Claire." Cassie said. "You look great in that red dress. I wish I was taller."
"It's the only thing I could find to wear and trust me, being tall isn't the best thing. Guys don't like girls who are taller than them.
"That's not true Claire." Cassie replied. "You're tall and pretty. I want to introduce you to Charles's friends tonight. I want you to meet David."
Claire rolled her eyes. "What does he look like? Please tell me he's not five feet tall. I think I'm the tallest girl in the whole school. It really limits your options and you can forget about wearing heels." she joked, picking up her feet, showing her flats. She hated being so tall. Six feet for a girl was pretty tall. Some people called it statuesque but she just saw it as awkward. She was pretty enough and she didn't have any trouble getting dates, she just wanted one she could look up to. She had a square box face with large diamond shaped eyes. She kept her hair short to emphasize her angular face. She liked her hair natural, in short twist locks.
Cassie laughed. "No, he's dark skinned, really tall, nice body." she giggled. "He's on the basketball team and he's really cute. You'll like him." She twirled and stood poised in front of the mirror. She glanced at the clock and winced. She blew out a frustrated breath. They had to get going or they would be late. She'd promised Charles she would get there a little early to help prepare for the party.
The door bell rang. "Lizzie!" Cassie yelled, "Can you get the door please? I'm in a hurry."
"I got it." Lizzie called out, running downstairs.
There was a light knock on Cassie's bedroom door. "Lizzie, I'm busy...we're getting dressed." Cassie yelled, expecting Lizzie or Tay on the other side of the door. The door cracked open and Sage stuck her head in.
"Ladies, glad I caught you. Looks like I'm just in time for the party." she said.
"Great, how did you get in here? I thought vampires had to be invited in?" Stacey snarled.
Sage frowned and raised her eyebrows."Don't worry Stacey. I promise I won't ask your girlfriend to dance." Sage snapped.
Stacey jumped out of her seat, grabbing for Sage. Cassie stepped between them. "Can you two please stop it. We're going to be late. Let's just go." She grabbed her purse and headed out the door.
Sage paused, looking Cassie up and down dismissively. She cleared her throat. "Ahem...ah.., you're not wearing that are you?" She wrinkled her nose and shook her head disapproving.
Cassie was outraged. "Sage, you are the meanest person I know." she gasped. She lifted both hand and dropped them."I knew this wasn't the right outfit." she complained. She sat on the edge of the bed with a hard thump.
"Thanks Sage!" Claire couldn't believe Sage's nerve. "You've got that foot in mouth disease!"
"I'm sorry." Sage apologized, "but this is the party of the year. Cassie looks like she's going to a church social. Good thing I came by. You two obviously have poor taste!."she smirked. She grabbed Cassie's hand. "Come on. I used to live here remember. I've been through your closet. There's got to be something sexier than this."
"You went through my closet?" Cassie gasped.
"Don't worry. I didn't steal anything, I just borrowed some stuff. Now come on, let's find you something decent to wear. You're gonna be late." Sage smiled.
Eddie lay propped up in bed with his hands behind his head. The week had been rough and he was ready for a night of rest and relaxation. He glanced at the bathroom door. What was taking Jenn so long in the bathroom? The shower had turned off thirty minutes ago. This was the perfect time to relax and cuddle with his wife. At this rate he'd be asleep before she came out of the bathroom. Jenn finally came out dressed to the nines from head to toe, putting on her earrings. Eddie glanced at her curiously.
"Do we have a date that I forgot about?" he asked. He was confused. A nice quiet Friday evening and Jenn was dressed for a night on the town.
Jenn sat on the bed, turning her back to Eddie. "Honey, can you help me with my necklace please?"
Eddie attached the necklace clasp and sighed. "Okay, I'll bite. You caught me. Is it our anniversary or something?" He prayed it wasn't. He did not want to sleep on the couch tonight.
Jenn turned and laughed. She kissed him on the lips. "Eddie Sutton it is not our anniversary. Shame on you."
Eddie shrugged both shoulders in confusion. "Then why are you all dressed up?"
Jenn stood up and adjusted her clothes. She grabbed her purse. She paused with her hand on the doorknob. "I'm going out for the evening."
"With Tracy and Barbara from the clinic?" Eddie assumed. "You ladies haven't gotten together in a long time."
Jenn rubbed the back of her neck. "No, I'm joining Dana and her friends for girls night." she explained.
Eddie shot straight up in bed. "What the hell?" he exclaimed. "You mean my Dana?"
Jenn turned from the door with her hand on her hips. "Your Dana?" she scowled. "Since when do you have a Dana?" Jenn demanded.
"Sorry." Eddie apologized. "You know what I mean."
"Honey, it's not a big deal." Jenn leaned and kissed him goodbye. "I'll see you later and don't wait up for me." She rushed out the door. It was time for mom to have a little fun.
Eddie sat in bed staring at the door, shaking his head. What in the hell was going on? Jenn and Dana!...He couldn't wrap his mind around that one. Sure, Jenn and Dana had called a friendly truce but he never expected them to become BFF's..., Best Friends For Life.
The party was in full force when Cassie and her friends arrived. Of course, they were late. The crowd was huge with students from Robelson high and neighboring schools. They squeezed through the crowd, shouldering their way in. Cassie scanned the room anxiously looking for Charles.
Charles noticed her before she spotted him. He stood in a corner with David, Emillio and Dean. It was Dean who brought Cassie to his attention.
"Whew!!" Dean whistled. He nodded toward the entrance. "I think the party just officially started guys." Charles turned in time to see Cassie enter. She was with her friends but Charles knew Dean's cat call whistle was meant for her. He watched her scan the room nervously, obviously looking for him. He couldn't help but smile with pride and appreciation. She was gorgeous as usual. Gorgeous and oblivious to the attention and admiring stare of every guy in the room. He tried calling to her but the music was blaring.
"So where's this girl you told me about?" David asked.
Charles pointed Claire out. "That's Claire in the red dress, standing next to Cassie."
"Don't even think about it man." Emillio said abruptly."I'm all over that." he said, admiring Claire.
David laughed. "Man...please...are you kidding me? Emillio, you'd need a step stool to kiss her. Your head will probably reach her waist." he laughed. "I'll tell you what, whoever gets the first dance, gets the girl." He held his out his hand to shake on it.
Emillio grabbed his hand. "Alright...Cool....Watch and learn playa. Watch and learn." He patted David on the chest as he headed in Claire's direction.
David grabbed him by the neck. "Relax, they just got here. Don't be so desperate." David laughed.
Charles stood between them and grabbed them both by the shoulder. "You two can fight over Claire on your own time. Excuse me, I'm gonna go see my beautiful fiancee." he bragged. His eyes gleamed with satisfaction and pride.
"Geez, rub it in why don't you. Your lucky Cassie didn't see me before she met you." Emillio joked.
Charles laughed hard. He pushed his drink into Dean's hand. "Here, hold this." he said nonchalantly.
Dean glared at him through narrow eyes. "Chuck, you are one lucky S.O.B." He stared across the room at Cassie.
Charles felt lucky. He felt like the luckiest guy in the room at the moment. A part of him secretly reveled in the envious look on Dean's face. Dean would never understand the love that he and Cassie shared. "Later guys." he walked off to get Cassie.
Charles snuk up behind Cassie and kissed her on her bare shoulder. "Are you looking for me?"
"Oh!" she gasped, turning to hug him. "I looked everywhere for you. Where were you?"
"Just talking with the guys." His eyes traveled up and down her body. "Is that outfit legal?" he teased.
Cassie looked down, inspecting her outfit. "You don't like it?" she asked sadly. She'd went through a lot of trouble to look nice.
Charles leaned and kissed her on the cheek. He whispered in her ear. "I love it, but that's dangerous baby, wearing something like that in front of me." he smiled. "You look amazing." he said. "The problem is, I think every other guy in the room feels the same way." he said jokingly. "I'm not letting you out of my sight."
Cassie smiled. Sage was right. Her skinny jeans and short midriff style, v-neck halter top looked great. She'd paired them with slinky black high heels. Snug jeans emphasized her trim figure. Her midriff top left her shoulders, abdomen and back bare. She gave Charles a quick kiss on the cheek. "Your impossible Charles." she laughed.
"You thirsty?" Charles asked, leaning into her ear so she could hear him over the music." You want me to get you something?"
Cassie nodded. "I'll have some punch."
Charles rubbed her bare back. "Don't move, I'll be right back." he said.
Dean sat in the distance watching the loving exchange between Charles and Cassie. He ignored the young lady sitting next to him babbling foolishly in his ear. He put his hand behind his ear, pretending to not hear her over the thumping music. "I'm sorry..., what?...what?...what did you say...I can't hear you" he said loudly. "Excuse me, I think I see someone I know." he lied. He was only interested in one girl here tonight. He noticed Charles in line at the refreshment table and saw his chance. It was time he said hello to Cassie.
Cassie bobbed and swayed to the music as she waited on Charles. She loved this song and she really wanted to dance. Charles had promised her he would dance with her tonight. She couldn't wait to pull him on the dance floor. She felt a small touch on the small of her back. Expecting Charles, she turned with a smile on her face. She faced a grinning Dean instead. The last person she wanted to see.
Dean's eyes devoured her form. Cassie crossed her arms in an effort to cover herself.
"Hey beautiful." he said arrogantly."
"Don't you dare call me that!" Cassie said roughly.
Dean held up both hands. He used the music as an excuse to lean close and whisper in her ear. "Why, because that's Chuck's pet name for you? It's cute but a little juvenile don't you think? My bad. I didn't mean to steal Charles's line." he said over the music.
"It's not polite to sneak up on people." Cassie said harshly. She had no patience and tolerance for Dean. He was a jerk.
"Where's Charles?" Dean asked convincingly. He knew the answer to his own question but he tried to engage Cassie in conversation. He knew Charles was getting a drink. He figured he'd get his chance with Cassie while Charles was occupied.
Cassie cocked her head and blew an aggravated breath. She wanted to wipe that vindictive smile off of Dean's face. "He's getting me a drink, but I'm sure you already knew that." Cassie looked toward the refreshment table. Charles waited in line talking with someone. She wanted him to hurry. She didn't want to be alone with Dean. She decided to go stand with him and wait. She turned to walk away.
Dean sensed her nervousness and grabbed her hand. He rubbed the palm of her hand with his thumb."Come dance with me." he urged.
"No!"Cassie snapped. "Charles is waiting on me. I have to go." Dean persisted and held on tightly as she tried to pull away. He refused to let go. "Don't worry about Chuck. Come on. Dance with me while you wait. From the looks of that line Chuck is going to be a while." he mouthed. He stepped close and trailed his finger against her face. "Come on. I can tell your thinking about it. Tell me you're not interested. Honestly." Dean goaded.
Cassie pulled away frantically but Dean grabbed her arms. She managed to pull free but he caught her wrist in a tight grip. He spun her around and came up behind her, trapping her arms within his. His arms wrapped around her from behind and he trapped her wrists in his hands. He pressed his chest against her back, tightening his hold. He forced her onto the dance floor.
She was so scared. Her lips trembled. "Dean!....stop it!" she snapped. "No!, I don't want to dance with you." she spat. "No!....why are you doing this? Charles is your friend!" she pleaded.
"The hell with Charles." Dean swore under his breath. "If you weren't interested you would have told him I made a move on you by now." Dean snarled.
The dance floor was crowded and Cassie managed to yank free. She whirled, turning to face him. She rubbed her arms from the soreness of Dean grabbing her. "The only reason I haven't told him is because you're suppose to be his friend. He trust you and I don't want to hurt him. I wish you'd never come here and I want you to leave. I don't want anything to do with you!" Cassie responded angrily.
Dean stepped forward, towering over her," Don't kid yourself Cassie. You're already involved sweetheart. You became involved the minute you stepped foot into my car. Did you tell Charles about our little car ride?" Dean asked innocently. His eyes hardened and he stared at her with blatant sexuality. He leaned in with his mouth a hairsbreadth away from hers. His face was so close she could feel the moisture from his breath on her face. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you enjoyed it." he smiled wickedly.
Cassie slapped him, putting the weight of her arm behind her hand. Dean's teeth clenched and his eyes darkened. Cassie met his stare, refusing to back down. Luckily for her, David had won the bet for the first dance. He was slow dancing with Claire and had witnessed the whole scene. He walked over and stood between her and Dean, pulling her aside. "Cassie, is everything okay?" he asked with concern. He glanced suspiciously between her and Dean. "What's going on?" he questioned and looked around the room. "Where's Charles?" he asked, annoyed that Cassie and Dean refused to answer his questions. Something was seriously wrong and neither Cassie nor Dean was talking. David turned on Dean. "Seriously dude... what the hell is going on? Somebody better speak up because I know what I saw."
"Nothing!" Dean offered. "It's just a misunderstanding." he lied.
David glanced at Cassie for confirmation. He knew her well enough to know she wasn't okay. She was visibly upset. "Cassie, are you okay?" he repeated.
Cassie lowered her lashes and crossed her arms. "I'm fine." she replied.
David urged her forward with his hand on the small of her back. "Come on. Let's go find Charles." he said reassuringly. He eyed Dean with a cold, disapproving glance.
Jenn tiptoed into the bedroom. It was fairly late and she didn't want to wake Eddie. She smiled and hummed the theme song from the movie she saw. It was fun being with women her own age. She was a mother and she loved her kids, loved her family but she needed time to herself. She had a wonderful time with Dana and her friends. They took in a movie and grabbed some dinner. She couldn't remember the last time she had laughed so hard. She felt relaxed, carefree and couldn't wait until the next meeting.
She eased into bed softly, careful not to jostle Eddie. He sat upright and turned on the bed side lamp as soon as she got in. She thought he was asleep. She should have known he'd wait up for her.
"Eddie, have you been awake the whole time? I thought you were asleep." she said.
"I was asleep. You woke me up humming that song." he lied.
"Don't be ridiculous, I didn't wake you. You waited up for me. Admit it." Jenn chuckled, leaned over and kissed his cheek."
Eddie sat up and threw his legs over the side of the bed. "Jenn what's going on?" he asked abruptly.
Jenn stared at him, reading his eyes. She was hoping he'd let this go for tonight. She fell back hard against the pillows. "Oh...Eddie, she begged, can we please talk about this in the morning. I'm exhausted honey." she yawned. "I had a great time. We saw a great movie. It's just a little fun between girls." she explained. "That's all. We'll talk in the morning. I promise." Jenn closed her eyes and turned over in bed.
"Judging from that smile on your face and how tired you are, I bet you did have fun." Eddie responded. He turned the bed side lamp off and lay back but couldn't go to sleep. After several agonizing minutes he turned over and shook Jenn's shoulder. "Jenn, are you asleep?" he asked somberly.
Jenn sighed impatiently. She turned over and faced Eddie with a disapproving frown on her face."Oh!, goodness Eddie, this is ridiculous." she accused. "You're not going to let this go are you? You've been lying there stewing the whole entire time haven't you?" she questioned. "You're overreacting."
Eddie scowled, trying to make sense of everything. "You got to admit it's a bit odd Jenn. A few weeks ago you two couldn't stand being in the same room with each other. Now all of a sudden you're bosom buddies."
Jenn sat up further up bed. She could see where this was going. A simple disagreement was slowly turning into an argument. "That's my point Eddie." she replied. "For the past few months you've been influencing me to change my attitude toward Dana. You begged me to accept her. Now that I've done the very thing you asked me to do, you have a problem with it." Jenn shook her head. "I can't believe you." she rasped.
"Jenn, I'm happy you and Dana called a truce and put your differences aside but I just want you to be careful. I know you needed your space tonight. Women's group, girl group, whatever you want to call it, I'm fine with it. I'm not objecting to you having some fun, having some down time. I'm just not sure Dana is the person to do it with." Eddie replied.
Jenn got out of bed and turned the bedroom lights on, blinding Eddie with the harsh light as his eyes adjusted. "Well, you've got my attention. I'm awake. Let's discuss this."
"Jenn, you two don't have anything in common. Dana's different." Eddie said harshly. "She's a different kind of woman." Eddie tried explained.
That's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard you say." Jenn blurted. She paced the floor with her arms crossed. "Different kind of woman?" Jenn replied with wide eyed, opened mouthed shock. "What's that suppose to mean?" she asked angrily. "Eddie, I can't believe you just said that."
Eddie rubbed his face in frustration. He wasn't doing a very good job explaining his point of view. He was coming off all wrong. "Well, for starters she's single. She's got a different set of values and she's been involved in a lot of things. You're not going out with her again. I don't like it and I think it's a bad idea. Besides, you're the one who kept saying she set a bad example." Eddie accused.
Jenn turned and yanked the door open. She'd heard enough. Eddie was being completely ridiculous. "I don't understand you Eddie. You blow hot, you blow cold and now you're trying to choose my friends. I'm a grown woman. You can't choose my friends. I'm doing exactly what you wanted me to do. Befriending Dana and coming to terms with her being in our lives." she argued. She held the door open wide.
Eddie jumped out of bed quickly. "Where are you going?" Eddie asked.
"I'm not going anywhere. You're sleeping on the couch.!" she snapped.
Eddie knew better than to argue. Jenn had that don't mess with me look on her face. Well, so much for a relaxing, restful sleep. He grabbed a blanket and left.
Jenn closed the door. She leaned with her back against the door sighing. Every time she and Eddie argued lately it involved Dana.
Someone knocked on the bedroom door. She frowned and turned to open the door, hoping Lizzie and Tay hadn't over heard her and Eddie arguing. It was probably Lizzie, coming to see what was wrong. She opened the door to face Eddie.
Jenn dropped her head to her chin and breathed a tiresome breath. "What now Eddie?"she asked.
Eddie mouthed one quick word. "Pillow." he said timidly. Jenn had had her fill of him and he didn't want to upset her any more than he had to.
Jenn didn't speak. She simply grabbed his pillow and threw it at him, slamming the door in his face.
Cassie sat quietly in a corner, still shaken over her encounter with Dean. Stacy and Claire sat with her while David went to find Charles. This party had turned into a huge nightmare. She just wanted things to go back to the way they were before she met Dean. He was a manipulative jerk. How could Charles be friends with someone like that? They were two completely different people. Thank goodness he was only in town for a short visit.
Charles, David and Emillio came racing around the corner. Charles's grey eyes were dark with rage. She could tell he was seething mad. He looked like an approaching storm.
"Where is he?" Charles yelled, looking around furiously. "I'm gonna kill him." he threatened. He leaned down on his haunches in front of Cassie's chair and grabbed her hands. "What happened? Are you okay?" he demanded. He raised her hands to his lips and kissed her fingers. He felt guilty as hell. It was his fault this had happened. He should have gotten rid of Dean when he first suspected his intentions toward Cassie. All of this could have been prevented. Dean had played him for a fool, fed him a bunch of lies. He'd been interested in Cassie from the start. How could he have been so stupid? He'd trusted him.
Charles tried to raise Cassie's head but she wouldn't look him in the eye. "Cassie...look at me." he insisted.
Cassie raised her head but lowered her lashes in an attempt to hide what she was really feeling. Charles stood up and grabbed her hand. He pulled her out into the hotel lobby to a quiet corner away from the noise and prying eyes of the party.
"Tell me what happened." he urged. He forced her head up. "Look at me Cassie, please." he insisted.
Cassie didn't want things to escalate any further. "Let's just forget about it. It's over." she said quietly. She didn't want to talk about it. "I'm okay."
"You're not okay. You're shaking. What did he say to you?" Charles said softly. He pulled her close and cradled her head in his chest. "I'm sorry baby. I should have seen this coming."
"I'm okay Charles. It's not your fault" Cassie responded. "He just scared me. He said some awful things." She knew if she told him the truth he would lose his temper. She just wanted to leave. She put her hands against his chest, pleading for him to calm down. "Charles let's just go. Forget about Dean. We never have to see him again." she begged.
Charles smoothed her hair away from her face. "Okay, he soothed, I'll take you home but first I need you to tell me what happened." He stared into her face and held her gaze. There was something she wasn't telling him. He read it in her eyes. Something wasn't right. He felt so guilty. He should have been there to protect her. "Are you sure you're okay?" he asked. He rubbed her arms to comfort her and noticed the marks on her arms where Dean had grabbed her. His whole body stiffened and he went completely still. His face hardened with anger. Cassie tried to fold her arms but Charles grabbed her wrist, inspecting her arms.
"Did he touch you?" he whispered menacingly.
Cassie hesitated. Her misty eyes and trembling lips gave him all the answers he needed.
Charles's jaw clenched. "Don't lie to me Cassie. Answer me!" he persisted. He took her by her waist and gently shook her. He was in a rage. "Did Dean put his hands on you?" he snapped.
Cassie wanted to deny it but her eyes gave her away.
Charles was enraged. "I'm gonna kill him!, I swear I'm gonna kill him!" he shouted.
Charles whirled. He didn't know where Dean was but he was going to find him. This thing between him and Dean would end tonight. It should have ended a long time ago. Things weren't the same anymore. They weren't kids anymore. They were two different people now.
Cassie grabbed his arm and tried to jump in front of him. "Oh my God!, Charles no!....no!...you can't go back in there." Cassie yelled. She tried to stop him. She ran after him as he disappeared into the crowd, searching for Dean. Someone was going to get hurt.
Cassie spotted Dean in a corner, talking with a girl from school but she was too late. Charles was already there. She raced to stop him.
Dean noticed Charles heading his way. He wasn't surprised. He was expecting this. He stood up and braced himself. He was spoiling for a fight.
Charles knew this couldn't be settled with words. They were way past that. Dean challenged him with a vindictive smile. He accepted and threw the first punch. Someone yelled fight and the whole night exploded. Dean and Charles fell to the floor. Tables and chairs were overturned in their scuffle. People started screaming and running. It was a nightmare.
Cassie yelled Charles's name repeatedly, trying to get him to stop. The fight only lasted for minutes but it seemed like hours. Hotel Security came in yelling, "parties over people!" and everyone scattered.
It took three guys, David, Emillio and hotel security, to pull Charles off of Dean. Cassie cried uncontrollably as she watched the scene unfold. Charles had cuts and bruises on his face and his left eye was a little puffy, beginning to darken. His nose was bleeding and his knuckles had blood on them. Cassie wasn't sure if it was his blood or Dean's. Dean looked much worse. She rushed over to him and he swallowed her up in his arms.
"Charles you're hurt. Let me see your face." she wailed. She reached out tentatively, trying to touch his face but he pulled away.
"I'm fine Cassie. It's nothing. Just a few scrapes and bruises." he reassured her.
Dean wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and struggled to his feet. He gave Charles a blank stare and shook his head. "Dude, I can't believe you're making so much out of this. She's just a girl." he said, publicly humiliating Cassie.
Charles glared at him. "If you ever touch her again I'll kill you. I swear to God I will." he threatened. He took Cassie's hand and walked outside to his car.
Dean followed them outside to the crowded parking lot, yelling insults. Students and onlookers alike stared, watching the commotion unfold. They heard the insults being hurled. "Why don't you ask your fiancee who took her home the other night!" he shouted.
Charles stopped in his tracks and turned, eyeing Dean suspiciously. "What the hell are you talking about?" he asked. "I've had enough of your lies."
Dean shook his head in denial. "Dude, I'm not lying." he confirmed. He turned to Cassie. "I'm disappointed in you Cassie." he sneered. "You didn't tell him? I thought you two told each other everything." he mouthed. He laughed in her face, daring her to deny it. "She even fixed my coffee just the way I like it." he added.
Charles turned to her. His eyes searched hers for some measure of truth. "What's he talking about Cassie?"
Cassie paused. This whole thing had backfired horribly.
"Cassie?" Charles repeated louder when she didn't respond immediately.
"Charles...don't listen to him. I want to go." she said. She gripped his arm and kept walking. The whole situation was embarrassing to say the least, with everyone pointing and gawking. All of their friends were there. Emillio and David leaned against Charles's car with Stacy, Claire and Sage.
Charles stopped and pulled his arm away, refusing to go any further until she answered him. "Wait....what is he talking about?" he demanded.
"He gave me a ride home from work last week." she admitted.
"What?..." Charles chuckled. "Is this some kind of joke? Cause if it is, it's not funny"
Cassie silently shook her head from side to side. No, it wasn't a joke. She gnawed her bottom lip.
Charles took her by the arm and stared into her eyes. "Cassie?" he questioned for confirmation, desperately hoping she would deny the whole ugly truth. He wanted her to deny it. He didn't want it to be true.
He had an uneasy look on his face. His eyes darted from Cassie to Dean. "Were you with Dean?" he asked.
"Yes!, but it's not like you think."she protested. She saw the seeds of doubt begin to form in his eyes. "He just gave me a ride home."
Charles nodded knowingly and licked his lips. "When?...why didn't you tell me?"
"Last week." Cassie responded. She hated the look in his eyes. "Charles don't look at me like that." she pleaded. She moved toward him and he stepped back.
"Nothing happened." she added quickly. "I went straight home. Nothing happened Charles." she insisted. She glanced at Dean. "He's twisting this whole thing. You have to believe me."
Dean paced the parking lot with his hands in his pockets and a wicked smile on his face. He was enjoying this. "Come on Cassie, you weren't exactly pulling away from me." Dean stated.
"What's that suppose to mean?" Cassie responded.
"You're a smart girl Cassie. Seriously, the old glove box/seat belt trick. Don't tell me you fell for that. You knew what was happening and you didn't walk away."
Charles looked at her with uncertainty in his eyes. "Charles, I'm telling you the truth." She reached for his hand but he pulled away.
"You should have told me." he yelled. "Why would you keep something like that from me? Were you trying to protect him? I can't believe you lied for him." he fumed.
"Stop yelling at me Charles." she cried. "I wasn't protecting him and I didn't lie. I wanted to tell you....I did...I just didn't know how. I didn't want to hurt you."
"And you think keeping secrets from me won't hurt me? We talked about this remember? We promised we wouldn't keep secrets from each other when you came back from New York." Charles reminded her.
"I didn't lie." Cassie repeated.
Charles shook his head angrily. "You're right." he nodded. "You didn't lie. You just conveniently forgot to tell me the truth." He turned and headed for his car.
Cassie chased after him. She tried to keep up with his angry steps and followed him to his car. "Charles please..don't let Dean come between us. I know I should have told you and I'm sorry. Don't leave like this. Let me explain" she begged.
"There's nothing to talk about. I'm done. Go home Cassie." he said sternly
Cassie stood silent. Charles grabbed her hand when she didn't respond. He led her to Stacy's car. "Take her home." he mouthed. He left, jumped in his car and sped off.
Cassie banged on Charles's door furiously. She had to talk to him.
Charles jerked the door open wildly. "What are you doing here Cassie?" he asked abruptly.
"We need to talk." she stated.
Charles shook his head. "No...we don't. I told you to go home. I said everything I had to say back at the party."
Cassie persisted. "Charles, I'm not leaving until you talk to me." She folded her arms and planted her feet. "I'm not going anywhere until you let me explain. she stated.
Charles conceded. He swung the door open wide, letting her in.
"Why did you leave like that?" Cassie questioned.
Charles swung around facing her. "Because you lied to me!" he shouted.
"Stop yelling at me Charles." she pleaded softly. She blinked, holding back her tears. She stepped close to him, "I wanted to tell you but the time was never right and I knew it would hurt you." she cried. You said Dean was like a brother and I didn't know how to tell you. I didn't know what to say." she explained. I just wanted him to leave so I could pretend it never happened. I'm sorry I didn't tell you but nothing happened. I swear."
"Why did you get in the car with him?" he yelled. "Seriously Cassie, were you ever going to tell me?"
"I'm trying to tell you but you won't listen." she sobbed. Tears streamed down her face and her voice cracked. "Why won't you believe me?" She couldn't make him understand. She turned and reached for the door. There was no need arguing with him. He was too upset.
"Cassie, ...wait." Charles said gently, stopping her before she could open the door.
Cassie stood facing the door with her hand on the knob. She wiped the tears from her face.
Charles came close and cupped her smooth shoulders with his warm hands. "Don't go....I'm sorry." He rubbed her shoulders softly.
Cassie swallowed hard. "Nothing happened."she whispered.
"I know... I trust you... I do." he apologized. "I'm upset with myself." he admitted. "I warned Dean away from you. I should have seen this coming."
"It's not your fault." Cassie whispered.
"I would have never forgiven myself If he had hurt you. I let this happen." he admitted. He wrapped his arms around her and pressed close. He kissed the curve of her neck. "I feel so guilty."
"Charles, I'm fine." she said softly.
He rubbed her arms soothing the bruises on her arms. "Are you sure he didn't hurt you?" he asked
"I'm fine." Cassie repeated.
Charles held her close. She felt his warm chest against her back. His breath felt warm against her nape. Her head fell back against his shoulder as he pulled her hair back to kiss her neck. Cassie held her breath and closed her eyes. He felt so good. His palm lay flat on her bare stomach as he pressed her against him. She covered his hand with her own. Their fingers intertwined.
"Promise me you'll tell me if he ever comes near you again." Charles insisted.
Cassie looked back at him and nodded. "I promise."she whispered.
Charles tilted her head back and kissed her. He smiled against her mouth. "This is becoming a delicious habit." he whispered.
Cassie squeezed his hand and smiled. She hated fighting with him. She loved him so much.
Charles turned her in his arms. She stared up into his face. He bent his head and gave her a hard kiss, stopping to let her breath then returning for more. He took her hand and lead her to the middle of the room. He cleared a spot in the middle of the floor.
Cassie chuckled lightly. "What are you doing Charles?" she asked.
He smiled, ignoring her questions.
Cassie watched with surprise as he dimmed the lights and put on some soft music. She smiled anxiously.
Charles stood before her and smiled.
Cassie smiled. "Is this another one of your surprises?"
Charles took her hands in his and studied her face.."No...no surprises tonight. I promised you I'd dance with you tonight. We never get to dance. Sage ruined our chance at the prom and Dean ruined tonight. He pulled her close. "Will you dance with me?" he offered.
Cassie fell into his arms and hugged him tightly. This is why she loved him so much. Special moments like this made her love him even more. He cared for her, he looked after her, protected her and he loved her.
"I love you Charles Antoni." she whispered as she cradled his face in her hands. "Of course I'll dance with you." Cassie nodded.
Please stop and play the track below before reading any further. Read the remaining story while listening to the music Charles played for Cassie. Thank you. There is also a picture of the outfit (halter top) Cassie wore to the party below.
Charles pulled her close and held her tight. They stood in the middle of the floor, dancing in slow circles, holding each other, gently swaying to the music. Charles circled her waist with his arms and she held him tightly around his neck. He stared at her lovingly and his eyes searched hers. Cassie traced his lips with her fingers and placed a quick kiss on his chin.
Charles nibbled at her mouth, forcing her mouth open, tasting her lips. She moaned into his mouth and he swallowed the sound. His warm hands touched her. He explored her bare back, caressed her stomach, rubbed her shoulders. He traced her collarbone. His fingertips on the small of her back pressed her close. The metal of his belt buckle felt cold against her stomach. He was so close, felt so good against her. She held her breath and closed her eyes, enjoying the sensation. Her back arched as Charles trailed his fingers down her spine. He smiled as she gripped him tighter, her fingers clutching his shirt. Her face was flushed, her skin warm. His hands spanned her narrow waist, enjoying the feel of her soft skin.
Cassie toyed with his shirt collar. He pulled away to remove his shirt and she clung to him, pulling him back in her arms. "Relax..., I'm not going anywhere baby." he whispered against her mouth, pulling her close. She looked at him and lowered her lashes. Charles kissed her eyelids close and trailed kisses down her neck. His fingers found the ties to her halter neck top and pulled them apart. Her top pooled at her waist. He unhooked her strapless bra, watching her the whole time, staring at her with intent. Cassie's face flushed as she struggled to pull her top back in place.
Charles caught her wrist. "Don't..., I want to look at you." he said softly. "You're beautiful." She put her face in his neck, trying to shy away. He kissed her and gently pried her top from her fingers. He unzipped her snug jeans and slowly peeled her out of them, teasing her about their snug fit. "How did you get into these?" he chuckled lovingly.
He kissed her until she was limp, pliant and weak. Cassie felt as if her legs wouldn't support her. Charles held her and she leaned into him. "Let me hold you." he muttered. He caught her by the waist and gently lifted her, wrapping her legs around his waist. Cassie gasped in surprise. Her eyes widened and her body stiffened against him. "Charles wait..." she said hoarsely. She stared at him with doubt and uncertainty in her eyes. She clung to his shoulders as he held her up.
Charles placed a quick kiss on her mouth and held her close. He put his finger against her lips. "Shh...It's okay baby. I'm not going to hurt you. I just want to hold you." He caressed her hair away from her face. "I'm not going to do anything you don't want me to do." he reassured her. "Trust me."
He held her and walked her to the sofa. He lay her down and came down on top of her. She looked beautiful with her hair fanned out around her face. She felt wonderful against him.
"I love you Cassie." he groaned against her mouth.
This is what he wanted, what he needed. Just he and Cassie being together, no arguments, no interruptions. A horrible night had ended well. He and Cassie were together, loving each other. She lay safely in his arms. Nothing else mattered.
THE END
