Magically Divalicious

 Crazy Game Called Love

Scene 1         Sunday Morning

Cassie woke bright and early to an empty bed.  The clock on the bedside table flashed.  No wonder she felt tired.  It was really early. The familiar warmth of Charles's body pressed against her back was missing.  She turned, reached over and caressed his empty spot with her hand.  Her new engagement ring glistened against the stark white pillow case.  She smiled and held her hand up to admire it all over again.  She still couldn't get over how beautiful it was and how thoughtful Charles had been.  She couldn't wait to show Claire.  She stretched wearily and grabbed her cell phone to text her mom, checking in, letting her know everything was fine and she’d be home soon.  She dragged herself out of bed for a quick shower and change of clothes.  Charles was downstairs and she was eager to join him. 

The warm shower water felt wonderful against her tired muscles.  A smile covered her face as delightful thoughts and visions of last night sprang in her head.  Sleep had come easily and peacefully.  Charles had made love to her...,not once but twice.  Once when they had arrived home and again hours later, rousing her from a peaceful sleep deep in the wee hours of the night, kissing her awake.  His hard voice had groaned in her ear, telling her he wanted her again, that he couldn't wait and had to have her just once more.  He hadn't allowed her time to resist before pulling her body beneath his, bringing her responses to fever pitch within minutes.  Truth be told, she had responded aggressively and willingly, matching him, meeting his every touch, every kiss.  She couldn't believe she had behaved so brazenly but Charles had encouraged her, whispering shockingly intimate details of what he wanted in her ear.  He had made her come alive and fall apart in his arms.  Sharp nails had dug into his back, clutching and clawing at him as firmly as she could.  The memory of his back bowing under the sharp pressure of her nails and the ragged moan that had escaped his lips made her close her eyes and smile.  As dawn had approached, she had fallen asleep, sated and tucked against his side, resting like a baby. 

Scene 2

Eddie scrambled around the bedroom, searching the dresser drawers and the closet.  Finally, he gave up looking.  "Have you seen my striped silk tie?  I can't find it anywhere." he asked Jenn, throwing his hands up impatiently.

Jenn glanced back from the mirror, putting her earrings on.    "Honey just wear another one.  We're going to be late for church."  Today was their church's anniversary service and they had a special day planned starting with an early morning prayer breakfast. There was a million things to do and prepare for and she had volunteered to help set up the fellowship hall.

"The later the better." Eddie mumbled under his breath. He really didn't want to go.  He and Tay had spent half the night working in the attic and he was still exhausted.

Jenn turned, shooting him a reprimanding glance.  "Eddie Sutton.  I'm ashamed of you." she told him, reaching into his drawer, pulling out a basic black tie.  She walked to him and put the tie around his neck, tying it in place herself.  She patted his chest when she finished.  "There.  You look fine.  Now, no more excuses." 

"Jenn I can't keep my eyes open.  Can't you see how tired I am?  You know, I’m not just doing this for Tay.  You're parents are going to be here for Cassie's graduation.  I can't let your father see the house in this condition.  I'd never hear the end of it.  We've still got a lot of work to do.    I stayed up half the night trying to fix the attic and Tay and I are still no way near finished.

Jenn laughed.  "Oh no you don't.  Don't involve my parents in this.  You kept Tay up all night in the attic to teach him a lesson and now you're dead tired.  Don't pretend you were so happily involved with your work.  I know how much you hate construction and home improvements."

Eddie crooked his head to the side, begging, motioning toward the bed with his hands.  "Jenn come on.  Just let me get back to bed."  I promise I'll go next week."

"You finagled your way out of church last Sunday." Jenn accused, folding her arms, looking up at the ceiling.  "Let's see...what was it last Sunday?" she asked, mocking him. "Oh ...I know!" she said with pretend excitement.  "You had a horrible headache but when the kids and I got back you were outside listening to music and working in the yard.  Unbelievably..., you were all better.  Your headache miraculously disappeared." 

Eddie huffed and flattened his lips in defeat.  Leave it to Jenn to accuse him of playing sick.  "Okay woman but don't blame me when I fall asleep in church." he forewarned.

"Well..., this woman doesn't want to hear your excuses." she said.   She picked up his bible from the nightstand and slapped it against his chest.  "Your going." she insisted playfully.   "I'll be downstairs.  I'm going to make a quick breakfast.  Make sure Tay wears a tie." She closed the door behind her and left him standing, clutching the bible in one hand and frowning scornfully.

Eddie grunted and stared at the door.  He mumbled to himself.  "He's probably still asleep.  I don't blame him."

Scene 3

Claire stood in David's bedroom, leaning against his dresser drawer, staring at him, watching him sleep.  She had gently removed his arm from around her waist and had quietly slipped out of bed, showering and dressing before he woke.   A sudden sadness overtook her.  The excitement and fantasy of last night was now gone, leaving behind the cold, lonely, stark reality of her situation.  In a little over a week she'd be gone and she still couldn't muster up the courage to face David and tell him.  Where had the time gone?   There wasn't enough time for her to gather her thoughts and figure out a suitable way to broach the subject.  She now knew the time would never be right.  There was no perfect time, no easy way to explain herself.  To make matters worst, last night she had foolishly changed the terms of their relationship.  They had made love, strengthening their bond.    Yes, she had created that precious, lasting memory to take with her but leaving him now would be so much harder.

David stirred, rousing quickly when he noticed she wasn't in bed.  He sat up, the sheet falling to his waist, revealing his muscular chest and abs. Claire couldn’t help staring.  He was gorgeous.  He was so handsome and his athletic body was hard, toned and beautiful. His eyes scanned the room for her.  He smiled.  "Hey princess." he grumbled, his voice still hoarse with sleep.  "I can't believe your up and dressed already." he commented, eyeing her as she stood dressed, ready to go.  She stood away from him, out of arms reach like she was afraid to come near him.  "It's too early.  Come back to bed." he offered softly, holding his hand out to her.  

      Claire folded her arms.  "I'm fine." she answered, forcing a smile on her sad face.  "I couldn't sleep. Besides, it's getting late."

David yawned and glanced at the clock next to him. "What are you talking about?  It's still early.   Come back to bed.  Please." he pleaded.  He just wanted to hold her. 

      Claire shook her head slightly, refusing.  "We still have to do breakfast.  We should get going." she reminded him.  They had agreed to have breakfast with Charles and Cassie this morning and she wanted to tell him the bad news before they left.  She had stalled long enough.  It was time she told him and she wanted him up and alert when she did.

      David was no idiot.  He noticed her mood change immediately.  She'd been acting strange for weeks now and he couldn't figure out why.  She had been upbeat and cheerful during prom but now she was back to her same old saddened self.  He propped his hands behind his head and leaned against the head board, staring at her suspiciously.  "You okay?" he asked warily, studying her.

      "Yeah" she responded quickly.

David stared into her eyes from across the room.  "Then why are you standing there looking so sad?"  He threw his hands up and dropped them back down on the bed.  His only guess was that maybe he had done something to upset her because she had come to him last night happy and cheerful but this morning he woke to a completely different Claire.  "Alright…, what did I do?" he questioned cautiously. 

      Claire rubbed her palms on the edge of the dresser.  She was trying to hide her mood but David saw right through her.  "David you didn't do anything." she smiled.  "You're imagining things." she said, trying to convince him that he was making too much of her mood.

      The phone rang, interrupting them.   David thought about ignoring the call but it noticed it was Charles so he answered.  "What's up man?" he spoke into the receiver, smiling at something Charles said.  "Man it is way too early for this." he laughed.  "Hey man..., tell prom queen Cassie I said hello.  I was gonna call you but I didn't want to interrupt you two love birds.  I figured you two would still be in bed." he said sarcastically, teasing Charles.  He knew Cassie was there with Charles and wanted to give him a hard time about it.  He was trying to get on his nerves.  

      Claire couldn't hear what Charles was saying on the other end of the line but she knew he was asking about her because David stared at her knowingly and smiled.  He motioned with his finger against his lips for her to be quiet and not make a sound.  She couldn't help but smile.  David and Charles were always heckling each other, always joking. 

David tried to speak firmly and convincingly on the phone.  "Man..., what makes you think Claire's here?" he asked, laughing to himself.  He shook his head, smiling as he talked with Charles.  "That doesn't mean she spent the night." he lied, trying to convince Charles he was alone but Charles wasn't buying it.   He pulled the receiver from his mouth and winked at Claire, finally confessing.  "Charles said good morning." he grinned, laughing hard.

      Claire laughed out loud.

David nodded his head. "Alright man." he spoke on the phone.  "We'll be there soon.  I'll stop and grab some donuts or something and I know Cassie loves coffee.  Later." he said, ending the call.

Scene 4

Eddie knocked on Tay's door.  He shook his head, exasperated.  Never in his life had he known a young man to take so long getting dressed.  "Tay, you mother's going to be upset if we're late." he said through the door.

      Tay opened the door, not prepared in the least.  He hadn't showered or done anything.  "Dad I'm not going to church.  I'm tired and I'm sick." he complained, crawling back into bed, pulling the covers over his head.  Every muscle in his body ached from working in the attic.  He'd used muscles he didn't know he had and had definitely learned his lesson.  He wouldn't be taking on any more crazy projects.

      Eddie leaned against the door jamb.  "It’s no use Tay."he explained.  "I already played the sick and tired card and your mom is not having it.  You might as well get up and get dressed."

      Tay pulled the covers back and frowned.  "Ugh!..., dad please.  Do I have to?"

"You do if you plan on customizing your sound studio." Eddie encouraged.  Tay had messed up and destroyed the house but he was starting to feel a little sorry for him.  He'd really worked him hard last night but Tay had stuck with him and seemed genuinely sorry for his actions.     

      "Huh?" Tay questioned, with a puzzled expression.

Eddie pushed his hands into his pockets and adjusted his stance, walking further into the room.  "Well..., I was thinking your mom and I could drive separate cars to church so you and I can hit the audio visual stores after service." he shrugged.  "We could go ahead and throw in a few upgrades while we're working on the attic.  If we have to pour our sweat and tears into the job we might as well do it right the first time.  You know..., maybe sound insulate a few walls, throw in some recessed speakers, add a few overhead spot lights.  There's a few things we can do but hey..., if you don't care about what your studio looks like I'm not going to argue with you." he teased Tay, coaxing his interest. 

      "What!?" Tay exclaimed, jumping out of bed, nearly tripping on the covers.  He was cautiously excited. He wasn't sure if his dad was serious or toying with him.  "Dad are you serious?" 

       Eddie glanced at his watch.  "Depends on quickly you can get ready." he smiled, timing him.

Tay sprang into action.  He didn't have to be told twice.  He couldn't believe it.  This felt like Christmas morning.  "Ten minutes and I'm downstairs." he spoke quickly, dashing into the bathroom to shower and dress.

      "Don't forget to wear a tie." Eddie yelled after him, making his way to Cassie’s door, knocking lightly.  It never failed.  Sunday mornings were hard in the Sutton household.  They usually got to church late because they couldn't get everyone out of bed fast enough.  Then, once they were up, the kids continued to stall and fight over the bathroom.  "Cassie!" he called out, listening at her door to be sure she was up.  She was usually the main one tying up the bathroom but he hadn't seen or heard her all morning and suspected she had overslept.

       Lizzie came out of her bedroom, dressed and ready to go.  "She's not in there dad." she commented nonchalantly, heading downstairs.

     Eddie stopped her and stared at her.  "Where the hell is she?" he asked quickly.

Lizzie adjusted her clothes and stared down at herself.  She wanted to make sure she looked presentable.  She answered him without looking at him.  "I don't know." she responded, carelessly, checking her hair in the hallway mirror.  What she didn't realize was he had no idea Cassie hadn't come home last night.  "Probably still partying or out having prom breakfast like every other Senior."she said, heading back down stairs, leaving him standing at Cassie's door with his mouth open. 

Eddie took a deep breath.  "Jenn!" he yelled downstairs.  

Scene 5

Cassie followed the aroma of food and coffee and found Charles in the kitchen.  He was completely immersed in preparing breakfast.  He stood with his back turned, dressed in blue jeans and a white sleeveless t-shirt, his mood cheerful and carefree as ever.  Cassie stood back and silently watched him move about the kitchen. Her heart turned over in her chest.  This gorgeous sexy man was her fiance and he looked so handsome, standing there singing and humming to himself.   She loved hearing him sing.  He had a beautiful voice but he didn't use it very often.  She held back her laugh and smiled, silently watching him before sneaking up and surprising him from behind.  She wrapped her arms around him. 

      "Hey you." she spoke quietly, startling him.

"Whoa hold on!" he called out, holding a hot platter in his hands, setting in down on the counter before it spilled.  He turned and took her in his arms.  "Hey baby." He smiled warmly and kissed her.    

      "Mmm." Cassie moaned softly, leaning into him, savoring the taste of his sweet morning kiss.  "Good morning.  You taste like coffee." she whispered faintly against his lips, her eyes fluttering.

      "Good morning." Charles returned, his eyes traveling over her body, silently appreciating her tank top and short skirt.  Her legs were left bare and he loved it.   Freshly showered and without a trace of makeup, she was still the prettiest girl he had ever seen.  She still looked as radiant and beautiful as ever. "You look so cute." he breathed roughly.  "How did you sleep?"

      "Okay I guess." She smoothed the back of her hand over his cheek.   They hadn't exactly gotten a lot of sleep. She rested her head against his chest

      Charles bent his head and peeked down into her face.  "Are you tired?" he asked, concern showing on his face.  "You didn't get much sleep last night."he said, feeling guilty.  He had wanted to let her sleep but having her lie next to him all night had proved too great a temptation.  He hadn't been able to resist.  He placed a soft kiss against her temple.  "I'm sorry.    I couldn't help myself." he confessed warmly, pulling her closer into his arms. 

      Cassie smoothed her hands over his strong back and frowned when he winced.  "What's wrong?"she asked.  He had a strange look on his face.  

"Nothing." Charles said calmly.  His back was a little sore from last night but he was okay.

      Cassie smiled and fingered his still damp hair.  "You're up so early." she said, glancing around the kitchen.  He had already started preparing breakfast. "I'm sorry I slept so late." she apologized.  " I wanted to help you.  I'm starving."  

      Charles rested his forehead against hers.  "I bet you are.  You should be.  You wore me out last night."he whispered softly, his smile slow and sexy.  His head dipped for a soft kiss.

      The heat rose on Cassie's face.  "Charles stop." She blushed at his comment.   "Why didn't you wake me?" she asked, resting her head against his chest.

      "I've got to get you home soon so I figured I'd get an early start but I wanted to let you sleep a little longer." he explained.

Cassie breathed in deeply, smelling the aroma. "Mmm... it smells delicious.  Wow, I can't believe you made all this."she said, peeping around him at the stove. 

      Charles came clean.  "Um,  I didn't.  Not exactly."

She stared at him.  "What do you mean?"

      Charles shrugged his shoulders and scratched his head.  "Um..., there's this all night diner down the street and I kind of ordered in but don't tell David and Claire." he laughed out loud.

      Cassie laughed.  "You're so bad Charles.  Where are they?" she inquired, anxious to see Claire.   They had all made plans to meet for an early breakfast this morning.  "I thought they'd be here by now." 

      "They'll be here soon.  I talked with David earlier.  He's um...," Charles faltered, choosing his words carefully, "he's uh...running a little late this morning." he replied, trying to suppress his smile. "He promised he'd bring donuts and your favorite cappuccino.

      Cassie saw the humor in his eyes.  Her face light up and her eyes twinkled.  She was so excited for Claire and wanted to know what was going on.  She knew she being nosy but had to ask.  "Charles...you're smiling.  What is it?  What did David say?" 

      Charles held his hand up. "He didn't say much." he replied, amused.  

"Charles what did he say?" Cassie repeated impatiently.  She and Claire were best friends and they confided in each other.   Claire had never been intimate with David but hopefully things had changed after last night.   "Was Claire with him?" she asked anxiously.  "They spent the night together right?  How did he sound?" She mouthed off question after question.   She couldn't wait to grill Claire.

      Charles couldn't meet her eyes without smiling.  "He just said ...uh...he said they...I mean, he was running a little late and that he'd be here soon." he corrected himself, improvising.  David hadn't exactly worded it that way but he knew Cassie was trying to be nosy.  He wasn't telling her anything.   David had said they would be over as soon as possible and he had overheard Claire's voice in the background.  He could only assume that they had been together all night but he wasn't telling Cassie.  It wasn't his business to tell.

      Cassie studied his grin and searched his face.    She pressed further, digging for information.  "He?" Cassie questioned disappointingly.  "He said he'll be here?   What about Claire?  I was hoping they'd be together." 

      Charles brushed a quick kiss across her mouth.  "You're full of questions today.  No more..., you're nosy.   If Claire wants you to know she'll tell you."

Cassie laughed.  "Charles she's my best friend.  I'm not nosy..., I'm concerned." she responded lightly, cracking a smile.

      "Yeah right.  That's a nice word for nosy."he replied, gathering her close.

Scene 6

Nate approached Dana in the kitchen.  He was surprised.  She wasn't dressed and her hair wasn't done.  "Mom, I thought you were going to service with us?"

       Dana shook her head softly.  "Not today okay.  I'm not feeling to well." Actually, she wasn't feeling well at all but she didn't want to scare him.  Her treatments started next week and she couldn't wait.  She felt tired and achy.  She just didn't feel like herself.

      Nate's instinct went on automatic alert.  He put his keys down on the table.  "I'll stay home with you.  You shouldn't be here by yourself."  He was afraid to leave her alone.

      Dana picked up his keys and forced them back into his hands.  "You'll do no such thing.  Everyone's going to be at service today.  I'll be fine.  Just go.  Jeron is ready.  I got him up early.  You know how slow he is." she teased, trying to lighten the mood.

       Nate turned to go but hesitated.  "Are you sure you don't want me to stay with you?  We can just hang out here.  I don't mind." he offered.

       Dana shook her head and put her hands on her hips.  "Well I do mind.  Boy..., if you don't listen to me and get out of here.  I'm fine.  Now go.  A little time at alone will be good for me.  You and that loud tv and Jeron with those video games is enough to drive me crazy." she teased.  "I'm just going to grab something to eat, put my feet up and relax." she said smoothly, smiling.  She couldn't have him worrying about her.  He was doing everything he could.  He worked two jobs and allowed her and Jeron to live with him in his two bedroom apartment.  He was the only father figure Jeron knew and had.  Things were tight and the place was small but they were managing.  Sometimes Nate reminded her of Eddie with his caring, his positivity and  toughness.   She honestly didn't know what she'd do without him. 

       Nate kissed her on the cheek.  "Alright but promise me you'll call me if you start feeling worse." he insisted.  

Dana gave in.  "I promise.  Now go and leave me alone." she smiled, pushing him from the kitchen. 

      Nate knocked on Jeron's door but didn't wait for a response before entering.   He walked in unexpectedly and found Jeron stuffing two thick money rolls into a shoe box in his closet, hiding it.

      Jeron growled angrily.  "What the hell man!?"  He stuffed the shoe box under a pile of clothes and slammed the closet door quickly.  "You ever heard of knockin?!"

      Nate's policeman instincts kicked in.  He knew something wasn't right and his every thought told him Jeron was getting caught up in some bad dealings.  "I did knock but I can see why you didn't answer."Nate responded, pointing at the closet door.  "You want to tell me where that money came from or do you want me to guess?"  Jeron was a teenager, a boy and there was only one way for him to have access to that kind of money.  He'd grown suspicious of Jeron's attitude and his strange habits for the past couple weeks now.  He was never home, gone all hours in the evenings and when he did come home, he always made a hasty retreat to his room, locking the door behind him. 

      Jeron answered evasively.  "It's my money.  I worked for it." he said, neither denying nor confirming Nate's suspicions,   inching past him through the doorway.  It was his money and he had worked for it but only not in the way Nate would have appreciated and condoned.  Yes, he had gotten involved in a little street hustle.  It was no big deal.  He didn't plan on making a career out of it.  Make some quick money and get in and get out.  That was his plan.    This was the first time in his life he could buy whatever he wanted and not worry about money all the time.  All the latest clothes, kicks, and jewelry were his for the taking.  Before long, if he saved right, he and his mom could move out of his brothers apartment into one of their own and he could help her with her medical bills.  He didn't like living here with Nate and he surely didn't want to move back to mama Taylor's.   If she found out what he was doing she'd kick his but for sure.  The money was great and he wasn't ready to quit just yet.  He was just now getting a slim taste of the good life and couldn't cash out just yet. 

      Nate followed him, keeping his tone low so Dana wouldn't over hear them. He grabbed Jeron's shoulder stopping him from walking away.  "So you're not even going to deny it?he asked, urging Jeron to talk to him.

      Jeron jerked away, his glancing traveling up and down Nate's body dismissively.  "Don't put your hands on me man.  You wanted to go to church so let's go.  The only reason I'm going with you is because mom begged me to.  I'll be outside."

      Nate watched him walk away. He didn't need this kind of trouble from Jeron.  He had enough problems and concerns with their mom being sick.  If she knew what Jeron was doing it would hurt her to the core. He walked out of the house and climbed into the driver's seat.  He started the engine and turned to Jeron, trying to talk to him man to man but he ignored him.  He sat in the passenger's seat staring out the window with a defensive attitude and posture.  "Look, you're my brother but if I know you're doing something illegal, something that can hurt you and hurt mom, I'll do what I have to do and take you in."he stated, letting Jeron know his position.

      Jeron propped his forearm against the door.  His expression turned hard.  "Fine.  Well do it then!  Do it!" he spoke loudly, smacking his hand against the outside of the car angrily.    "Man you don't know nothin.  Nothin about what I'm doing or what I'm involved in.  You can't tell me what to do.  You're not my dad and you ain't a cop. You at a desk all day pushin papers!"he insulted loudly.

      Nate didn't want to argue with him anymore.  Jeron's insulting words hit home and really made him feel bad. They could  continue this conversation later.  "Let's just go." he said sadly, pulling out into the street.

Scene 7

Cassie grilled Claire the minute her and David walked into the door, pulling her into a quiet corner of the family room, leaving Charles and David to talk alone in the kitchen.   She smiled brightly, rubbing her hands together in anticipation.  "So, tell me everything." she whispered, not wanting Charles to over hear her.  "Yes or no." she asked quickly. 

      No clarification was necessary.  Claire knew yes or no meant did you or did you not sleep with David.  Claire took a deep breath, paused and feigned ignorance.  "Yes or no what?  What are you talking about?" she questioned, stalling, giving Cassie a hard time.

Cassie stomped her foot.  "Claire, stop it!" she laughed.   The suspense was killing her.  "You have to tell me." she smiled. 

      "Yes." Claire finally answered, unable to hold it any longer, blushing.  "Yes, yes!" she confessed, closing her eyes, visions of last night twirling in her head.   "Cassie, it was amazing.  David was amazing."she continued.

      Cassie's mouth dropped open.  She grabbed Claire's hand and pulled her down to the sofa.  "Really?" she spoke softly, happy that her two friends had taken the next step.  She knew when her and Claire met that she was the perfect girl for David and things couldn't have worked out better.  They were in love.

      "Yeah, he was so sweet." Claire confirmed, sharing the details.  "Took a little coercing but he gave in." she laughed excitedly.  "I was so nervous and so scared but he was perfect.  It's like, he knew exactly what to say and he just did everything right.   I'm happy I waited and I'm glad it was with David."

      Cassie sighed happily.  "So..., things are good?  Everything's okay then?  He's okay with you leaving?" she questioned, assuming Claire had talked with David last night. "I knew things would work out.  I'm happy for you Claire."

      Claire averted her eyes.   "Not exactly."

"What do you mean not exactly?" Cassie pressed for an answer.   Claire's eyes were guilty.  "You didn't tell him did you?  You promised you would." she scolded.

      Claire lifted her hands in defense.  "I know....I know...I just..." she broke off, frustrated.

"You're being ridiculous Claire." Cassie said firmly.  "What happened between the two of you last night will only make matters worst.  Putting it off won't help."

      Claire was visibly upset.  She didn't need Cassie coming down on her.  She was already kicking and beating herself up over her decisions.  She didn't need any outside help.  "That's easy for you to say Cassie." she growled harshly through her teeth, looking around to make sure David was out of site.    "I know David's your friend but I love him and I know I'll hurt him when I tell him.  I've been trying to find the words but I just can't bring myself to do it.  I'm afraid he won't understand, he won't wait for me and I'll lose him.  You're making this whole thing sound so easy but it's not.  Trust me, if the shoe was on the other foot and you were in my position, you wouldn't find it so easy to tell Charles." she said roughly.

      Charles and David appeared from around the corner.   Charles took one look at Cassie's face and immediately knew something was wrong.  "Tell Charles what?" he questioned cheerfully, overhearing his name, turning suspicious as the room went silent.   Claire and Cassie both clammed up instantly. 

      "Yeah." David agreed.  "Tell Charles what?  You two have that sneaky look on your face.  What's up?"

      Cassie stood up and threw her arms around Charles's neck.  "Tell you how much I love you." She dodged his question and placed a quick peck on his lips. 

      Charles kissed her on her forehead.  "Nosy." he whispered, for her ears only, flashing a huge smile.  He knew exactly what she had been up to.  She hadn't given poor Claire a chance to really say hello before pulling her off into the family room.

David took Claire's hand and pulled her up from the sofa.  "What are you guys talking about?" he smirked. 

      "Nothing." Claire lied.  "Just talking about prom."

"Yeah right." David said sarcastically.  He knew he had interrupted her and Cassie's little kiss and tell session.  "Come on let's go eat."

       "Oh, Claire wait." Cassie said, holding out her hand, wiggling her fingers.  Claire hadn't seen her ring and she wanted to show it off.  "Look what Charles gave me." she showcased, excited.

       Claire was impressed.  She took Cassie's hand in hers and stared at the ring. "Wow!  That's some rock!  That's a beautiful engagement ring." she said, smiling at Charles.  "You've outdone yourself Charles."

"Thanks." Charles replied, proud of himself.

      Cassie smiled, stood on her tip toes and kissed his cheek.  

"Whew!" David whistled, grasping Charles's shoulder firmly, staring at the ring.  Like Claire, he was equally impressed.  "Man you are not messing around.    Claire's right.  That's a beautiful ring Cass but are you sure you want to marry this guy?" he laughed.  "You could do better."

      Charles pushed his hand from his shoulder.  "Shut up David." he said jokingly.  He should have known David would say something smart.  "You're lucky you have Claire." he retaliated.  "She's too good and too pretty for you." he teased.

      Cassie responded lovingly, answering David's question.  "I can't wait.  I'm going to be Mrs. Cassie Antoni."   She kissed Charles on his lips.

      Claire stared at them as they kissed. She smiled and her head dropped slightly.  She wondered if her and David would have ever created a love like theirs but now she'd never know.  

      David saw her reaction and rubbed her back.    Last night had been a turning point in their relationship.  They had passed the point of no return.  He couldn't tell her and didn't want to spoil the surprise but he had some gift giving of his own planned.   It wasn't an engagement ring but a beautiful pendant necklace with two intertwining hearts.   He was having their initials engraved on the piece and couldn't wait to give it to her.    "You okay?" he whispered.

      "Yeah." Claire she answered at once, resting her head on his shoulder.

Scene 8

"Jenn!, Jenn!" Eddie yelled again, calling her name repeatedly.

      Jenn cringed at the sound of her name being called.  The urgent tone of Eddie's voice told her everything she needed to know.   He was upset and must have realized Cassie wasn't home.  She hadn't shared Cassie's plans to stay out with him.  He would have worried and asked a million questions so she had decided against it.  

      Eddie rushed downstairs, pulling Jenn aside.  "Cassie didn't come home last night." he said seriously, concerned about her.

      "She's okay Eddie." Jenn said on a quiet sigh.  "I'm sure she'll be home by the time we're back from church." she reassured him.

       Eddie looked at her with a dull expression, his hands on his waist.  "You knew about this?" he questioned harshly. 

Jenn rushed around with a kitchen towel in her hand, cleaning as she talked.  "I told her it would be okay.  She checked in this morning.  She's fine and she'll be home soon.  Don't worry." she said carelessly, a little to carelessly for Eddie's taste.

       Eddie grunted.  He couldn't believe Jenn was taking this so lightly.  "Jenn, our daughter spent the night out away from home and you're telling me everything is fine.  Do you not understand the problem I'm having with this?" he said curtly.  "I can't believe you allowed this."

      Jenn turned and frowned at the authoritative tone in his voice.  "Yes Eddie, I do but I'm telling you Cassie's fine." she answered quickly.   She set the kitchen towel down, walking up to him. He was really upset and there was no need to be.

       "My daughter spent the night away from home and I didn't know about it.  This situation is not fine!  Jenn, Cassie is still a child, a baby.  You're her mother.  I can't believe you'd allow her to do something so irresponsible.  I can't believe you let her talk you into this." Eddie accused disappointingly. 

       Jenn raised her voice.  "Eddie Sutton how dare you!  I am well aware of my role and obligations to this family." 

Eddie argued on.  "Have you ever noticed whenever the kids want to get their own way and get away with murder they come to you?" he spat bitterly.

       Jenn felt insulted and her feelings were hurt.  His comment was vicious.  She folded her arms and cocked her head to the side.  "Really?" she asked, pausing, giving him every opportunity to apologize and think about what he had just said but his apology never came.   She pursed her lips.  "Okay..., since we're handing out insults, have you ever noticed that the kids are afraid to talk to you about certain things?  Afraid to come to you about certain problems or questions they have?  If I'm the lenient pushover..., I guess that makes you the hard nosed, stern faced disciplinarian."

       Eddie pointed his finger at her.  "That's not fair Jenn." he scolded.   "You should have told me." Eddie said.  "I set curfews for a reason Jenn, not so you and Cassie can break them whenever you feel like. 

      Jenn threw her hands up with frustration.  "I'm sorry," she yelled, "I didn't realize you were the only who could set ground rules for our kids!  Since when do I not have a say so in this family!?  I thought my opinion mattered.  If I had told you would you have allowed it?"she questioned, putting him on the spot.

      "Hell no!" Eddie answered sharply and quickly.  He didn't need time to think about it and he didn't bother denying it.  The answer would have been an emphatic no. "

      "Exactly.  That's why I didn't tell you.  You would have ruined her prom and she would have missed out on being with her friends." Jenn explained.

      "With her friends or with Charles?" Eddie sneered.

Jenn nodded knowingly.  "I was wondering when you'd get around to that."

"Get around to what?" Eddie shrugged angrily. 

      "Charles." Jenn revealed.  "I really wish you'd give this thing with him a rest.  He's Cassie's fiance and he's proven himself to you over and over again."

       Eddie nodded in agreement.  She had a point but he had a legitimate right to be concerned about his daughter.  "You're right.  He's her fiance but he's also a man." he warned.  "He's a man first Jenn.  A young man,"he added, "and I have to expect him to behave as such and do the things that young men are known to do." he explained, rationalizing his reasons for being so concerned.   "You didn't see the way he looked at her when he picked her up for prom." he commented, his voice full with fatherly concern.      

           Jenn held her hands against her temples, frustrated, trying to reason with him.  "Yes I did and I saw nothing but love and affection in his eyes." she admitted.   "I don't blame him.  She looked beautiful."she said.   She breathed deeply and chose her words carefully.  It was too early in the morning to be fighting.  "Eddie, I apologize for not discussing it with you but you know I'd never allow Cassie to do something that would put her in any kind of danger or harms way.  I made a decision and I'm sorry I didn't tell you."she apologized.  "This was a one time thing and it won't become a habit. Don't worry about her.  She's fine."

      "If you say so." Eddie agreed begrudgingly, still visibly upset but trying his best to calm down and come to terms with the situation.  There was nothing he could do about it now. "You know I remember what it was like being young."     

      "Are you saying you don't trust Cassie?" Jenn questioned.

"No." Eddie shook his head.  "That's not what I said.  Let me rephrase that.  I remember what it was like being a young man." he rephrased, emphasizing the word man.  "And this isn't about trusting Cassie.   Jenn, Cassie is my oldest daughter but no matter how old she gets I'll always think of her as my baby." he explained, talking slowly.  "I'm her father and I know what's best for her.  All I'm saying is I know what young men are capable of."

      "So it's Charles you don't trust?" she questioned, accusing him.  "Eddie..., he's her fiance.  Give him a break."

Eddie shook his head.  "Jenn stop twisting my words." he said calmly.

      Jenn conceded.   Eddie was upset and looking back on her decision, she knew he had a right to be but she didn't want to argue with him.   She walked to him and put her arms around him.  For such a stubborn, mule headed man he had an awfully soft heart.  He was nothing but a big overbearing possessive father, afraid and reluctant to let go of the reigns and let another man take his place in his daughter's heart. She stared up at him. "Eddie, if you remember what it was like being young, you should also remember young love.  Cassie's not a baby Eddie.   You can't keep her locked away inside the house.  She's going away to college this fall and as much as you'd like to, you can't go with her and watch her twenty four hours a day.  I recall you telling her just yesterday she wasn't your little girl anymore.  She's our daughter and she still needs our guidance and direction but she's not a baby.   I think Cassie and Charles are more than capable of handling their love for each other.  

       Eddie's eyes rolled back in his head.   This conversation was going nowhere.  There was nothing he could do about it now.  The night was over but he'd  definitely have to start keeping a closer eye on Cassie.   "Jenn....I need you..." he started.

        Jenn hugged him.  "Eddie..., just stop.  We are not going to agree on this.  I'm sorry I didn't tell you but I'm not sorry she went." she concluded.  "Cassie did ask for permission so I don't want you coming down on her when she gets home.  Promise me you won't."

      It was hard but Eddie promised.  "Alright..., I won't.  I won't say a word but this better not happen again."

Jenn tightened her hold around his waist.  Her smile brightened.  "Senior prom is a right of passage Eddie.   Don't you remember prom, staying out all night?  Do you remember the parties, dressing up, dancing?" she asked, her voice seemingly light and airy as she remembered the magical times.    "She and her classmates had one special day to themselves, one day.  Let's trust that she acted responsibly."

       "Yeah..., high school.  High school was nice." Eddie agreed.  The corners of his mouth tilted up into a slow smile and he let out the wickedest, most masculine, primal kind of laugh.  Jenn felt his chest shake with laughter beneath her head.   "Yeah...I remember.  I remember Sophomore year.  How could I forget?  Me and double D Belinda created some special memories of our own.  Whew!" he whistled sinisterly, his eyes rolling back in his head, thinking back to those good times.  His mind wandered off and he forgot all about Jenn standing there.  Just for a split second he lost track of time and was transported back in time to his prom moments and fantasies.

      Jenn lifted her head up slowly, staring at him.  He held his head up and had a goofy one sided smile on his face.  She wondered where he had slipped off to.  Obviously, from the look on his face, his mind was in the gutter and he was thinking wicked thoughts.   She pulled away from him.  "Double D?..., Belinda?  Really?!   Care to share those memories?" she asked loudly, slapping him playfully on the cheek, snapping him out of his dazed state.

      Eddie came out of his bewildered state quickly.  "Uh...no." he said uncomfortably, embarrassed that Jenn had caught him off guard.  "That was before I met you." he said quickly, timidly.

      Jenn laughed at him.  She laughed hard.  "Let's just hope Charles isn't as wicked as you were when you were younger." she teased him mercilessly.

A shameful expression was plastered over Eddie's face.  "Let's go to church."he said, feeling like a fool.    Here he was lecturing about young men, their inadequacies and what they were capable of when he himself had just revealed a sample of his wild and wicked days.  "What's so funny?" he asked, embarrassed.

      "You are." Jenn laughed harder.

"We're going to be late." He snatched his keys from the counter and made a hasty exit for the front door with the sound of Jenn's laughter still trailing behind him.

Scene 9 
Cassie ran into the house, rushing upstairs.  The house was quiet.  "I'm home!" she yelled out, her calls going unanswered.  She smiled to herself.  Great..., everyone must still be at church.  She had the house to herself along with some peace and quiet.  She threw her things down on floor and dived onto her bed.  Home at last.  She lay on her back and sighed heavily.  Prom was over and now she and Charles could look forward to graduating and college in the fall. 

She thought about Sage and her accident.   She reached for her cell phone to call her and make sure she was okay but froze in place at what she saw.  Her radiant smile quickly turned into a face filled with dreadful worry.  Her smile was wiped from her face as she stared at her purse sitting atop her dresser drawer, a horrible reminder that she hadn't taken her birth control pill yesterday.  "Oh my God.  No. Oh my God." she repeated, whispering anxiously, bolting upright in bed.  Every joyful thought and memory she had of prom and the night before now took a backseat to fear and anxiety.  

She jumped out of bed and grabbed her purse, dumping its entire contents onto the bed, searching for the plastic pink compact within a pile of cosmetics.  A hard lump grew within her throat and she swallowed hard.  Maybe she was mistaken.  There was a chance she had taken it and simply forgotten that she had.  She silently hoped and prayed but no such luck.  She opened the birth control compact and there it was.  That seemingly insignificant, tiny light green pill that could change her and Charles's life as they knew it.   She dropped the compact onto the bed and covered her face with her hands, tears springing to her eyes.   She was so scared.  How could she have been so stupid and irresponsible?  Thoughts of the day before came to mind.   She had gotten completely involved and excited about prom and had simply forgotten to take her pill.  It was as simple as that.  She had just plain forgotten.  It was a poor excuse and she knew it.  She and Claire had spent the entire day together, planning and preparing for prom.  Hours were spent at the hair and nail salon and not once had she remembered to take her pill.    She had come home, dressed for prom, switched out her purse for a small evening clutch and walked out of the house, foolishly leaving her birth control pills behind.
     
      "How could I have been so stupid?"she asked herself, her breathing short and shallow.  .  She had promised Charles she was being careful and taking her pills routinely.  A promise that had now been broken as she had made the worst mistake of all.   How was she going to tell him?  How could she explain that she had forgotten something so important because she was more concerned with her hair and nails.  Even worse, if she happened to be pregnant, how was she going to tell her mom, her dad?   She sniffed and dried up her tears, swallowed a deep breath.  It was time to think and focus.  Maybe this wasn't a good time.  There were certain times when a woman couldn't get pregnant.  Maybe she would be okay.  She raced across the room for her calender to count the days.   She glanced at the calender in horror, shaking her head.  Time was not on her side.  According to her pill count and her calender days, this was the worst possible time to make a mistake.  She couldn't have picked a worst time to screw up. 

Scene 10

Jenn and Lizzie made their way home from church, leaving Eddie and Tay behind talking with Nate in the church parking lot.   As expected the service had been beautiful if not a little over extended.  Quite a few people had dozed off to sleep, including Eddie.    "Honey why don't you think about joining the youth choir." she suggested to Lizzie.    They youth choir had performed beautifully today.  Their harmony and the solo performance was excellent.

      Lizzie was a little apprehensive.  "I don't know mom.  I never thought about it."

"Well you really should." Jenn advised.  "You've got a great voice and you love to sing.  In fact, I think it would be good for you and Tay both."

      "Mom, Tay's an R&B, rhythm and blues singer.  I don't think he's going to be interested in the youth choir." Lizzie explained.

"Just think about it.  I really think you'd enjoy it." Jenn said, driving along.

      Lizzie dug into her purse and searched through the car center console frantically.

"Honey what are looking for?" Jenn questioned.

      "My cell phone.  I must have left it in the fellowship hall." Lizzie replied, opening the glove compartment, still searching.

Jenn pulled the car over and made a u-turn.  She sighed frustratingly.  They were more than half way home and she hated turning around.  "How many times have I told you kids cell phones are not appropriate for church?  It's rude and disrespectful to hear cell phone chimes and alerts going off during a sermon."

      Lizzie explained herself.  "Mom, I didn't use it.  Besides, I kept the volume on silent and I only pulled it out once while we were having breakfast in the fellowship hall. "

Jenn pulled into the church parking lot,  parking on the fellowship entrance so Lizzie could run in quickly. 

      Lizzie rushed out of the car.  "Be right back."

Jenn sat waiting in the crowded parking lot, glancing around and to her surprise Eddie was still there.  She hadn't noticed the car when she pulled in.  She hadn't thought to look because she was sure he'd be long gone by now but there he was standing talking with Nadine Hunter, a young woman from church, the youth choir director.   She didn't want to spy or be nosy but the opportunity presented itself right in front of her face so she sat and watched.  It wasn't the talking that bothered her but the nature and body language of their conversation.  At certain moments, they stood really close and appeared to be whispering.  Nadine put her hand on Eddie's arm, laughing at something he said.  She gave him a sheet of paper and he scribbled on it with a pen before tucking it inside his pants pocket.  Jenn's eyes narrowed and her heart beat wildly as Eddie hugged Nadine and kissed her on the cheek, a huge smile plastered on his face.  She breathed deeply and started at them from across the parking lot.  Obviously something was going on.  She didn't want to jump to false conclusions.  As an adult, she was wise enough to know the circumstances behind what she had just witnessed could have been anything, something completely innocent but as a woman, a wife, it didn't keep her heart from racing and her mind from wandering.  Maybe they were thinking the same thing, along the same lines.  Maybe he had noticed the youth choir's terrific performance and thought it would be good for Lizzie and Tay.  Hopefully, he and Nadine were discussing having Tay and Lizzie join the choir..., she hoped.

Engrossed in watching the affectionate display before her, she didn't notice Lizzie until she got into the car. 

      "Found it." Lizzie said, staring at Jenn, sensing her despair.  "Are you alright mom?"

Jenn put on a happy face.  She didn't know what was going on and she didn't want to involve Lizzie in whatever it happened to be.  She didn't want her to see Eddie and Nadine together.  "I'm fine honey.  Let's go home." she said, backing the car out slowly, not wanting to be seen.   Managing to slip out of the parking lot without Eddie ever knowing she was there.

Scene 11

      Cassie hurried.  There was a noise downstairs and she heard Lizzie's voice.  They were home.  Facing her mom right now was not an option.  She was scared and afraid the guilt and worry would show plainly on her face.  She had to talk to someone and that person was Claire but her first priority was taking her pill.   The teen pregnancy and sexual awareness class she had taken had been informative and she had learned a lot.   Classes she had once believed were stupid and unnecessary now felt like a lifesaver.  She knew to take both pills, the current and the missed dosage at once, getting herself back on schedule.     Thank goodness her mom had forced her to take them.

      She grabbed her car keys and threw everything back into her purse, hurrying.  Hopefully, she'd be able to rush out of the house and sneak pass her mom without being seen.  She opened her bedroom door and gasped out loud, surprised to find Lizzie standing right outside her doorway, her hand poised in the air, prepared to knock.  Cassie held her hand against her chest, her heart thudding in her chest.  "What do you want Lizzie?  You scared me." she said impatiently, her voice trembling.
     
      Lizzie smiled.  "Hey.  How was prom?   Did you have a good time?"

Cassie brushed pass her.  "I can't talk right now." she said roughly, running downstairs.

      Jenn stopped her.  "Hey!, slow down.  Where are you going?   Glad you're home.  How was prom?"

Cassie gave a one word response, steadily headed for the front door.  "Fine."

      "Cassie Sutton come back here!" Jenn yelled, stopping her.

Cassie turned, swiveling on her feet. 

       "I asked you a question.  Where are you going?   You've been gone all night and you're headed out again.   I want you to stay home.  Prom is over." Jenn explained.

      Cassie came up with a quick lie.  "I left my cell phone.   I'll be right back."

Jenn threw her hands up with frustration.  "What is it with you kids and these cell phones?"  

      Keys rattled as Cassie shifted on her feet and fumbled with her purse.  She was nervous and jittery.  Everyone wanted to know about prom and it was the last thing on her mind. Prom had gotten her in trouble in the first place.   All she wanted to do was talk to Claire and buy a pregnancy test.   

Jenn noticed her tension and saw the worried expression on her face.  She touched her gently on the shoulder.  "Honey are you alright?"

      Cassie wanted to tell her.  She desperately wanted her advice and guidance but she couldn't tell her about the stupid mistake she had made.   "Everything's fine mom.    I had fun last night.  I'm just tired."  She kissed her on the cheek.  "I'll be right back." she said, rushing out the door.

Scene 12

Cassie beat on Claire's front door frantically.  Claire answered the door in her bath rob, rubbing her eyes, still half asleep.  She had only been home a couple of hours and didn't expect to find Cassie at her door.   She should be home like her..., sleeping.

      "Cassie,  hey.  What are you doing here?" she asked, yawning.

Cassie didn't wait for an answer.   She pulled the pregnancy test she had just purchased from her bag and held it up it up for Claire's inspection.  

      Claire's eyes widened.  She laughed softly.  "Whoa." she smiled.   "Okay seriously, David and I have only been together once.  I think you're jumping the gun a little.  We won't be planning any shot gun weddings any time soon." she whispered. 

      Cassie's lips compressed and she shook her head slightly.  "Not you..., me."  she confessed, her eyes watering.

Claire's mouth fell open and her eyes grew huge.  "Whoa." she repeated, snatching the pregnancy test from Cassie's hands, hiding it inside her robe for fear of her dad seeing it.  She backed away from the door and ushered Cassie inside.  "Come in but be quiet okay?   My dad's asleep.  Come on." she said, taking Cassie's hand, pulling her along to her bedroom.  She closed the door, locking it behind her.  The last thing she needed was her dad creeping up on them.    She pulled the pregnancy test from her robe and stared at it.  "Cassie what happened?!" she whispered anxiously.  "We had breakfast together a few hours ago.  You were fine but now you show up here with a pregnancy test?" she asked incredulously.   Somehow the world had turned upside down within a few of hours.

      Cassie paced the room, wringing her fingers together nervously.  "I don't know Claire.  How could I have let this happen?"

Claire caught her hand and dragged her to sit on the bed.  "Let what happen Cassie?  You're not making any sense.  What's going on?" she pressured.  "I thought you were on the pill?"

        "I was....I mean I am." Cassie corrected.  "Claire I've really messed up.  I forgot and I didn't take it."

Claire's attitude was indifferent.  "Well, Cassie, I wouldn't worry about it too much.  You guys are still using protection right?"

      Cassie could have fell through the floor with that question.  If only they were.  She wouldn't be sitting here now with her heart thudding extra hard, worrying herself to death.  They had foolishly decided against their only means of security and now things had backfired and blown up in her face.  She looked Claire in her eyes and muttered the dreadful words, shaking her head.   "No, not anymore."

      Claire stared at her.  "Oh my God." she blew out a breath, trying to stay calm. Cassie was scared enough and she didn't want to make her feel any worse but this was serious.  

      Serious concern was written all over Claire's face and Cassie saw it. "Claire what am I going to do?  I've really screwed up." she said, her voice hoarse with worry.

      Claire sat silently, thinking, trying to come up with a solution, an answer.

Cassie knew what she was thinking.  "I know.  You don't have to say anything.  It was stupid and I'm stupid for letting it happen." 

      "You're not stupid." Claire said kindly, rubbing Cassie's shoulder.   "You just made a mistake.  Lots of women do.  Let's just calm down and think about this." Claire said thoughtfully.  "Okay so, you missed a dose.  When..., How many?" she probed, trying to make sense of everything Cassie was telling her.   Maybe things weren't as bad as Cassie was making it sound.

      "Just one..., yesterday's." Cassie confirmed. 

Claire cringed.  "Yesterday." she repeated out loud.  She was mistaken.  Things were definitely bad.  Yesterday was prom and everyone knew what went on after prom.  She tried to think logically and rationally.  "And I guess it would be asking too much to assume nothing happened between you and Charles last night?" she questioned, knowing it was a long shot but asking regardless.  Usually, Charles and Cassie couldn't keep their hands off each other but she had to hope..., had to ask.

      Cassie's answered by dropping her head sadly.

Claire didn't have to ask to know what that meant.  Cassie and Charles had spent the night together. Of course they had slept together.  She went over every possible solution and scenario in her head but the odds were slowly stacking up against Cassie.  She scratched her head, thinking.  "Alright, you didn't use protection and you two were together last night but what about your due date?  Cassie, it's possible you could be okay.  If the timing is off, there's no way you could have gotten pregnant." she explained, searching for something positive to say.

      "Two weeks." Cassie replied.  Two untimely, unfortunate weeks.

"Two weeks?" Claire questioned unbelievably.  Things were going down hill quickly.  "Cassie...this means, "she hesitated, "this is your most fertile time."she said regrettably.

Cassie was at her wits end.  "I know Claire!" she bit off.  "I know.  Don't you think I know that?  Claire..., I've been over this.  I've thought about everything you're saying..., everything we've talked about.  I've checked my dates, my timing and my calender.  Believe me, I checked everything twice and I know this is the worst possible time.

"What did Charles have to say about this?"she asked discreetly, trying not to pry.

      Cassie covered her face with her hands, crying softly. 

"Cassie don't cry.   Cassie?" Claire inquired warily.   "What did Charles say?" she repeated, suddenly getting the odd feeling that Cassie hadn't told him.

      "I rushed right over here.  I haven't seen or talked to him." Cassie confessed.  Honestly, she didn't want to talk to him.  How in the world was she going to explain this?   How could she explain how ridiculously irresponsible she had been?

      Claire's voice raised slightly.  "Are you serious?  You haven't talked to Charles?  Cassie..., I'm sorry but you rushed over to tell the wrong person.  I want to help you but you have to talk to Charles."

      "I can't. You don't understand.  It was my idea to stop using protection." Cassie mumbled, her voice straining.   Her voice was firm but quivering.  "He's going to be so mad at me."  

Claire stared her down.  "Now who's being ridiculous?" she said,  throwing Cassie's words back in her face.

      "Claire!" Cassie exclaimed, surprised that Claire had taken such a cheap shot at her.

Claire's hands went up in defense.  She apologized at once.  "I'm sorry.  I shouldn't have said that.  Just pretend and forget I said that.  Cassie..., I didn't mean it the way it sounded but you know I'm telling the truth.  You told me I was being ridiculous for keeping the truth from David yet you're to afraid to tell Charles you could be pregnant.  I just think you should tell him."

      Cassie picked the pregnancy test up from the bed.  "I'll go home and take the test first.  If I'm not pregnant then he'll never have to know that I screwed up.  Hopefully I won't have to tell him anything, anything at all.  I could be okay.  It was only one pill and I'm back on schedule now.  You said it yourself.  A lot of women make mistakes and forget.  They don't all end up pregnant."

      Claire pulled the test from her hands and dropped it back on the bed.  Cassie wasn't thinking straight and she needed to reason with her, talk some sense into her.  She took both Cassie's hands in hers.  "Cassie..., taking this test won't help.  It's too soon and you won't get an accurate reading.  You're my best friend and I'm not trying to scare you and make things worse but I have to be honest with you.  Yes, every woman is different and our bodies react differently but you and I both know it only takes one time, one missed pill.    You only missed one pill but you could still be pregnant because your timing is right.  I know it sounds harsh but it's the truth.  That's why I want you to tell Charles.  This is serious Cassie."

      Cassie nodded.  Claire was right and she knew it but she wasn't thinking clearly.  "You're right.  I know.  I know I have to wait.  I'm just so scared Claire." she whispered brokenly.  It was too soon for a home pregnancy test.  She'd have to wait  before she'd know anything for sure, before enough of the pregnancy hormone built up in her system to measure an accurate test reading.  Taking the test too early could result in a false reading but right now waiting felt like torture.  She'd go crazy waiting. 

      Claire stood up and folded her arms.    She wasn't sure if Cassie would be willing to do it but if she really wanted to know, there was a solution.  As a lab geek, she knew about certain things, certain procedures and lab tests.  "There is a way you can find out quickly.  There's a blood test, a hormone test.  It's called a pregnancy serum test.  Chemicals will show up in your blood stream first.  This test measures the smallest trace of the pregnancy hormone and detects what a home pregnancy kit can't.  It's more accurate and quicker than a home test but you'll still have to wait at least ten days to take it.  You'll also need...___" 

      Cassie cut her off, interrupting.  "Great.  I want to do it." Her hopes were raised. 

Claire shook her head.  "You didn't let me finish.  You'll need your mom's consent to take the test." she muttered. 

      Cassie shook her head.  "No!   No way.  Absolutely not."  She folded her arms, holding and comforting herself. 

"Maybe you should think about taking the contraceptive shots instead of the pill.  It might be easier and less stressful." Claire suggested.

      "You're right." Cassie said, forcing a small smile.  Talking with Claire made her feel better. 

Claire smiled.  "Yeah.  I think you should talk to your mom about another form of birth control, the shots.  If she was willing to let you have birth control pills, I'm sure she'll understand."

      Cassie sat quietly for a few minutes before revealing a private part of her life.   "Charles and I..., we promised we wouldn't do this.  We wouldn't go through this again."she confessed, her voice cracking.

      Claire touched her arm with concern.  "Wait, this happened before?"  She thought she knew everything there was to know about Cassie.

Cassie nodded, confirming.  "We had a pregnancy scare last year but things turned out okay.  We promised we'd be really careful from then on and I started on birth control but things happened and I...." Her voice trailed off painfully.  That was a time she wanted to forget and here she was reliving it all over again.

      "It's okay.  You don't have to explain." Claire interrupted, knowing how hard this must be for her.  An emotional secret had just been shared and she felt honored that Cassie trusted her enough to share.  Now that she knew the history of Cassie and Charles having gone through this once before, her feelings about the situation grew stronger and she pressured Cassie to tell the truth.  Charles would be horribly upset if he found out she had kept it from him.  "Come on," she said, pulling her up from the bed, putting her purse on her arm.  She shoved the pregnancy test inside the bag and forced the car keys into Cassie's hand, ushering her towards the door.   "Go and talk to Charles.  Right now." she persisted.

Scene 13

Eddie gathered the kids together upstairs for a secret meeting while Jenn prepared dinner.   "Alright listen, your mom's thirty seventh birthday is coming up and this year I plan on doing it big."

      Lizzie rolled her eyes.  "Oh boy.  Here we go again."    

"Oh boy?" Eddie frowned.  "What's that suppose to mean?"

      Tay faked a huge yawn.   "Uh..., dad, you say that same thing every year." 

"Very funny." Eddie scowled.  "I know you all are thinking I'm just talking crazy, talking out the side of my neck but I'm serious this time.  We're going to have a very special party for your mother.  I mean it."

      "Sure dad." Tay said sarcastically.

Lizzie agreed.  "Yeah dad.  Seriously.    Every year you talk about throwing some huge party but it never happens.  You wait until the last minute and we end up with some grocery store birthday cake and ice cream."

    "Have a little faith in me...please." Eddie pleaded.  "I know my plans fall through every year but this time is different.  We actually have the money to pay someone to help us plan and pull this thing off.  I talked to Nadine at church and she's going to help me put something real nice together for your mom.  I'm talking fancy invitations, an old school dj, a nice caterer..., the works."

      "Nadine's hot." Tay grinned.

"Nadine Hunter, the youth choir director?" Lizzie questioned, confusion showing on her face.

      "Yeah, the choir director." Eddie confirmed.

"What does a choir director know about planning a party?" Lizzie asked.

      "She's also a party planner." Cassie clarified, her voice dull, flat and uninterested.  She wanted to be excited about the party but her mind was elsewhere, worrying.  She had ignored Claire's advice and came straight home, refusing to talk with Charles.  All she wanted was a quiet room and her bed.  She wanted to go to sleep and pretend this horrible day had never happened.

      "Uh... Cassie, don't sound so excited." Eddie grumbled.   "I thought you all would be happy and excited about this.  This is for your mom.  It's a big deal. 

       Cassie apologized for her sour attitude.  "Sorry dad."

Eddie continued.  "Nadine's a wonderful director but she's also a very talented events coordinator and she's agreed to help us out."

      Tay and Lizzie sat quietly, their reaction less then enthusiastic.

Eddie became frustrated at their lack of interest.  They still didn't believe him and thought he was making blind promises.    "Look," he sighed heavily, "Can you all at least pretend to be excited?  Trust me..., we are having this party, guaranteed. Nadine was nice enough to take this job at the last minute as a favor to our family, as a fellow church member."he stated, eyeing them all.   Not only had he sprung the job on her at the last minute but his budget was also tight.  He wanted to give Jenn a surprise party but he knew she'd kill him if he spent too much money on her.  As a member of the congregation, Nadine had been more than accommodating, going out of her way to help.  She took the job in spite of her already booked schedule and promised to work within his budget, offering to call in some favors with her local contacts for discounts on the best caterer and party venue.  He had been so thrilled and relieved when she accepted the job that he hauled off and kissed her, thanking her.   She had no idea how much he appreciated her help. 

        Cassie was the first to speak up.  "We'll help dad and I'm sure mom will love it.  Nadine's parties are great."  She had seen Nadine's work first hand.  Mrs. Hunter had organized one of her classmate's eighteenth birthday bash and had done a fantastic job.  It was one of the best parties she had ever been to.

       Tay wasn't convinced.  "Mom's birthday is soon.  How are we going to plan and pull this off at the last minute?"

"Don't worry about the details." Eddie explained.  "That's why I hired Nadine.    All we have to do is show up, keep it a secret and get your mom to the party." he smiled. 

       "What about Cassie?  I thought we were having a graduation party.  How are we going to plan two parties within weeks of each other? Lizzie asked.

      "No!" Cassie shouted.  "No party.  I don't want one."  She could be pregnant right now as they spoke and was in no mood for partying.  Celebrating and planning a graduation party was the last thing on her mind.  Graduation was only a few weeks away.  If things went wrong and she came up pregnant, she could very well be celebrating graduation with the gift of impending motherhood. 

      Lizzie stared at her strangely.  "Ooookay, calm down.  We heard you.  No party."  Cassie was acting weird.  She'd never seen someone turn down their own graduation party.

      Cassie realized how she must have sounded.  "Mrs. Antoni is already planning something for Charles.  Let's just concentrate on mom's party.  I  want it to be special and I want her to be surprised."

      Eddie thought Cassie's attitude was a little odd and peculiar but he wasn't going to pressure her into having a party if she didn't want one.  It was her decision.  "Whatever you say." he commented.  

      "Ooh are we invited?  Can I come? Tay smiled.   "Nothing better than a graduation party with some senior honies running around."

       Cassie shot him a killer glance.  "Please.  You wish."

"Let's go have dinner." Eddie said, turning for the door.   "Oh," he turned back suddenly, "before I forget, Nadine and I are meeting this week to finalize a few things.  I'll be home a little late but your mom will think I'm out working." he explained thoroughly.  "I want our plans kept a secret and please..., don't give your mother any reason to become suspicious.  Everybody understand?"

They all nodded, agreeing.

Scene 14

Jenn climbed into bed next to Eddie.  She snuggled close to him and rubbed his chest. 

      Eddie sighed and caressed her shoulder, holding her against his side.  "You were quiet at dinner."

She didn't think he had noticed.  She had remained quiet all evening, not once revealing what she had seen in the church parking lot.  She was hoping he would have mentioned something, volunteered some odd reason for his behavior today but none came.  Her suspicions grew with each passing hour.   "I'm sorry honey it's been a long day."

      "Yeah it has." Eddie agreed.  "We should have slept in like I suggested and not gone to church."

Jenn saw the opening she needed.  Now that they were on the subject of church, she saw the perfect opportunity to secretly broach the subject.  "Speaking of church, what did you think of the anniversary service?  The youth choir's performance was excellent.  I'm amazed at how much they've improved."

      "Yeah, that was the highlight of the service.  Rev's sermon put me to sleep." Eddie chuckled.

Jenn pinched him on the chest.  He could be so silly sometimes.  "It was beautiful sermon.  If you hadn't fallen asleep and snored through half the service you'd agree."

      "I'm kidding," Eddie snickered, "but you're right, since Nadine took over the youth choir has made a complete turn around.  Now the last choir director, Cathy..., that woman couldn't hold a note to save her life.   I've never seen a choir director who couldn't sing.  Reminded me of a scalded cat crying out for mercy."

      Jenn laughed despite herself.  Eddie was being mean but he was right.  The previous choir director had been completely out of her element.    "What do you think about Tay and Lizzie joining?  I think it would be good for them.  They both love to sing."

      Eddie drew his head back, glaring at her.  "Tay and Lizzie?" he questioned harshly.  "I don't think so."

"I thought you'd agree with me.  You don't think it's a good idea?" Jenn inquired, testing him.

      Eddie stiffened.  He thought it was a great idea but he didn't want Jenn snooping around talking to Nadine about anything until her party was over.   The less contact she had with Nadine the better.  He came up with a good excuse.  "It's a wonderful idea but Tay and Lizzie can't get out of bed on Sunday mornings and Tay's so wrapped up in this R&B music of his, I don't think he'd be willing to concentrate on anything else.  And Lizzie is so involved after school with the boys and girls club, she probably wouldn't have time.  I think they have enough on their plates right now.   Later on, if they want to join and they're serious about it, we'll see how it goes."

      ""You're probably right but you have to admit this is the largest youth group we've had in a long time. It's usually so hard to get the kids interested but they're excited and seem so passionate about their singing now.  And little Tiana's solo performance today was amazing.  Hard to believe she's only eight years old with a voice like that.   I told her mom she should  consider getting her professional voice lessons, coaching.  She's really good."

      "Mm-hmm." Eddie agreed, his voice groggy with sleep, his eyes closed.  "I wanted to tell Nadine how much I enjoyed the performance but she left before I got a chance to talk to her."

      Jenn froze in place, her smile instantly fading.  She pulled her hand from Eddie's chest and stared down into his face.  He had just lied to her.   She couldn't believe he lied to her.  He and Nadine had a private conversation out in the parking lot, yet he claimed he didn't speak to her.

      "Well, I'm beat.  Goodnight." Eddie planted a hard kiss on Jenn's mouth and rolled over to his side of the bed, turning his back to her.

Jenn stared at his broad back for the longest time before turning away.  She fluffed her pillow and lay silently, knowing sleep would not come easily tonight.   Never in their whole entire marriage had Eddie ever given her reason to doubt and suspect him until now.   The innocent kiss on the cheek she had seen didn't seem quite so innocent anymore.   Every part of her wanted to wake him up and demand an answer, an explanation.  It would be so easy to accuse him and put him on the spot but she didn't.  She lay silently, a thousand questions running through her head.  She breathed in deeply and closed her eyes but sleep never came.

Scene 15

Lizzie knocked on Cassie's door and walked in.

      Cassie pushed the pregnancy test under the covers on her bed but it was too late.  Lizzie had seen her reading the box.  "Lizzie..., this is my room!  You should have knocked!  You can't just come barging in."  She raged, her heart thudding in her chest. 

       Lizzie stood in the doorway staring at her.  "I did knock." she rounded, noticing Cassie's watery eyes.

"I didn't say come in!" Cassie shouted.    

      "Fine I'll leave." Lizzie said quietly, turning on her heels.  She stood at the door but instead of leaving, closed the door and turned to Cassie.  "Cassie...can I ask you something?" She knew what she had seen.  What was Cassie doing with a pregnancy test?

      "What Lizzie?" Cassie asked impatiently.  She wanted to be left alone. 

Lizzie walked slowly towards the bed and sat next to her.  She stared down at the covers.   "Are you," she hesitated, "Are you pregnant?" she asked, her voice heavy with concern for her sister.   She knew something was wrong.  Cassie had been acting strange and sad all day, all through dinner.

      "No." Cassie replied firmly.  She couldn't talk to Lizzie about this.   She was her baby sister. 

Lizzie searched her eyes.  "Then why are you crying? she questioned softly.

      Cassie shrugged her shoulders.  "I'm not."

Lizzie disagreed.  "You were."

      Cassie didn't deny it.  She simply looked away.

"I saw you.  The test." Lizzie admitted.  "Are you pregnant?" she repeated.    

      The room grew increasingly quiet.  Cassie uncovered the box and held it in her hands.  She looked at Lizzie.  "I don't know." she confessed, her voice faint.  No sense in lying any longer.  Lizzie had seen her and knew the truth. 

"Wow." Lizzie sighed softly.   Her big sister might be pregnant.  The news was alarming.    She knew Cassie was afraid and she didn't blame her.  She was afraid for her.  "When....when will you kn..know?" she stuttered.

      Cassie put the test away in her night stand drawer.  "In a couple weeks." she whispered sadly.

Lizzie lifted her shoulder.  "Well..., what are you going to do if you are?" she asked slowly.  Her heart went out to her sister.

      "I don't know Lizzie.  I don't know." Cassie said.  She and Lizzie sat together on the bed, neither one saying anything, just sitting quietly.

      Lizzie broke her silence.   She noticed Cassie's new engagement ring.  "Wow.  That's really pretty." She reached out to touch Cassie's hand.  "When did you get this?"

      Cassie spread her fingers wide for Lizzie to see.  "Charles gave it to me after prom."

"So..., are you two going to get married now?" Lizzie asked.  Charles and Cassie had run off to get married before.  Now that she may be pregnant, surely they would be getting married.

      Cassie shrugged.  "Lizzie, I don't know.  I don't even know if I'm pregnant."  She hadn't thought that far ahead yet.  She hadn't even told Charles yet.

"Will you let me know when you find out...please?" Lizzie pleaded.

      "Lizzie..., why do you want to know?" Cassie asked, irritated.

Lizzie stared at her, her eyes going soft.  She shrugged her shoulders.  "because you're my sister and I can tell your scared." she said thoughtfully.  There was nothing she could do but if Cassie needed someone to talk to, someone to confide in, she could listen.

      Cassie's heart grew full.  She felt horrible for yelling at her when she was only here trying to help and comfort her.  She nodded softly and smiled through her sadness.  "I will.   I promise."

      "I better go.  It's getting late." Lizzie started to leave but Cassie stopped her at the door.

"Lizzie!" she called out.  "You can't tell mom and dad."  She had to figure this out on her own.   Things would never be the same if her dad found out.  Even if things worked out and she wasn't pregnant, he'd never allow her to see Charles again.

      Lizzie agreed.  "I won't.   Don't worry..., I promise."

Scene 16

Jenn rose bright and early, earlier than usual, quietly sneaking out of bed.   Eddie was sleeping soundly and she wanted him to stay that way.  She was on a mission.  He had a bad habit of leaving things in his clothes pockets.  In the past, she'd found everything from business cards, ink pens and sometimes money when she did laundry.      He had shoved a piece of paper from Nadine into his pants pockets yesterday.  Hopefully, it was still there.

A suspicious, doubtful wife was a full time worrisome job but she couldn't help herself.   Surely, there had to be some explanation and she wanted to find it for her sake as well as Eddie's.    The white dress shirt he had worn to church smelt like perfume..., Chanel No. Five.     She'd recognize that scent, that perfume anywhere.   It was her mom's favorite.  She wore it all the time. 

Just as she had hoped, the paper was still in his left pocket.    She unfolded it to find a copy of the church anniversary program schedule.  On the back, a scribbled telephone number.    Her mind told her to disregard the number  but her heart told her to dial.   She used her cellphone to call, blocking her number before dialing.   Her breath lodged in her throat as the phone rang in her ear for what seemed like forever but was actually only a few seconds.    The call was answered on the fourth ring.

"Good morning Nadine Hunter." Nadine greeted cheerfully.

Jenn held her breath, quickly disconnecting the call.  She covered her hand with her mouth in despair.  Something was going on.  She was sure of it.   Things weren't adding up but she was sure there was some kind of connection between Eddie and Nadine.  Sure, Nadine was a church member but outside of that, she knew next to nothing about this woman.   Six months ago she was hired to replace the old choir director and soon became an active member of the church.  She could only remember speaking with her personally a few times at best.  What she did know about her, only added to her suspicions.  Nadine was a beautiful, younger woman and she was single.  She had a gorgeous figure and she could sing like a bird. 

Eddie came around the corner into the laundry room, startling her.  She jumped.  "Honey..., you scared me."

      Eddie rubbed his sleepy eyes.  "I've been calling you for a few minutes.  What are you doing down here so early?  You okay?"

"Yeah...., honey..., go back to bed.    I didn't mean to wake you.  I couldn't sleep and I figured I'd come down and get through this pile of laundry.  I didn't get a chance to do much this weekend.  I'm up so I might as well get something done before I go to work." she lied, grateful he hadn't caught her snooping.  "Go back to bed.  I'm fine."

Scene 17

Claire and David caught up with Cassie at her locker. 

      "Good morning." Claire greeted brightly.

"Hey Cassie.  Where's Charles?" David asked.  Charles and Cassie were practically joined at the hip.  When you saw one you saw the other.

      "Um...we drove in separately." Cassie answered slowly, avoiding Claire's eyes.

Claire shuffled her books in her arms.  "Have you picked your cap and gown up yet?"   

      "No.  I'll do it after lunch." Cassie responded evasively.

Claire read her like a book.  Something told her Cassie hadn't talked to Charles.  Cassie was much too quiet.  Plus, she and Charles always drove to school together.   Something was up.  "So...uh..., how is Charles?"  She couldn't say much with David standing there but Cassie knew exactly what she was talking about.  

      Cassie slammed her locker door.  "I don't know." she said firmly, silently daring Claire to pressure her on the subject any further.

      Claire shook her head slowly, showing her disappointment.

Charles walked up at the same time.  "Hey guys." he said to Claire and David.   "Hey beautiful." He bent his head to kiss Cassie.  "What happened this morning?  I thought it was your turn to drive.   How come you didn't stop by?"

      Cassie lied to him..., blatantly.     "I've got a project after school.  I have to stay late."

Charles had a strange look on his face.  "Well, you should have told me.  I called you a few times.  How come you didn't answer?"

      Actually, he had called her phone six times this morning but she had ignored every call.  "I forgot my phone at home.  Sorry." She lied once again.

      Charles pulled an envelope from his back pack.  The smile on his face grew.  "Guess what?" he asked Cassie, putting his arm around her.

      "What?" Cassie asked.

Charles held the envelope up for her to read.  It was from UCLA's admissions office.  "I got my acceptance letter.  Looks like we're all going to UCLA this fall." he said happily, squeezing her waist.

      Cassie smiled.  "That's great Charles."

Charles and David clasped hands and bumped shoulders. 

      "Man that's what's up." David said, thrilled that his best buddy was going to school with him.

"The four of us.  It'll be just like old times." Claire commented.

      "Yeah." Charles said.  "It must have come this weekend but I forgot to check the mail."

"We forgot to do a lot of things this weekend." Cassie mumbled under her breath.  If he only knew what she had forgotten, he wouldn't be standing there smiling.

      Charles couldn't understand her mumbled words.  "Huh?"

"Nothing." Cassie said, grabbing her bag, ready for class.

      Claire grabbed David's hand.  Here Charles was, standing face to face with Cassie.  It was the perfect time for her to come clean.   She gave them the privacy they needed.  "David and I are going to go pick up our caps and gowns.  We're going to go...so you two can uh...you two can talk." she said firmly, walking away, giving them the privacy they needed.  She glowered at Cassie.

      Charles caught the tension between them.  Something was wrong.  "What's she talking about?" he asked.

Cassie stared at Charles.  He was so happy.  He had just gotten his acceptance letter and was in a great mood.  Unfortunately, she was about to spoil it.  "We need to talk."

      Charles knew by her tone and the look on her face it was something serious.  He smiled at her and she just stared at him.   "Okay.  What's going on?" he asked.

      Cassie pressed her back against her locker for support.   She was so scared to tell him.  Her mouth was so dry she could barely talk.

      Charles studied her.  "Cassie what's wrong?" he asked, growing nervous.  He didn't like the way she was staring at him.

Cassie took his hand and pulled him to a quiet corner of the hallway, away from the prying eyes and ears of other students.

       "What's up?" Charles asked her.

Cassie's lips flattened.  "You're going to be so mad at me Charles." she swallowed.  She had to tell him.

      Charles dropped his bag to the floor and took her face in his hands.  Cassie was upset about something.  Something she was afraid to tell him.  "What are you talking about?"

      "I've really messed up Charles." Her voice cracked.  "I made a big mistake."

Charles frowned, a worried crease formed on his forehead. Nervousness set in.  Cassie was starting to scare him.   He urged her to speak up.   His hands caressed her face, reassuring her.   "Baby what is it?  What?  What did you do?" he asked gently.  "Are you in some kind of trouble?"

      Cassie nodded softly. 

Charles's eyes grew wide.  He immediately thought she was in some kind of danger of some sort.   He didn't know what else to think.  She was keeping him in suspense.   His thumbs smoothed her cheeks.  He stared at her, his eyes serious.  "Cassie..., tell me what's going on.  Right now." he said forcefully.    

      Cassie licked her lips.  "Promise me you won't get mad."

Charles flashed a small smile.  "Baby, I'm not upset.  Just tell me what's going on."

      Cassie conceded.  "I forgot...I forgot to take my pill." she whispered ever so softly.           

Charles's eyes went blank.  "What?" he asked quietly.  "What do you mean?" he asked, breathing hard.   "Y...your birth control pills?" he questioned outrageously.

      Cassie nodded, waiting for his reaction.

Charles smoothed his hand over his face, taking in what she had just told him.  "You forgot.   What does that mean?  What does that mean exactly?" he pressured.   He knew what it meant and it scared the hell out of him.  He knew what she was telling him but hoped she wouldn't confirm his worst fear.

      "It means I could be pregnant Charles." Cassie told him.  "Charles what are we going to do?" she pleaded with him.

Charles swallowed and sighed.  He rubbed her shoulders.  "Well, wait...hold on.   Come on, we don't know for sure.    Um...when..., when did this happen?   We might be okay.  I mean...we've only gone without protection twice." he whispered.

      Cassie shook her head, confirming his worst fear.  "This weekend." she answered, her eyes turning misty.

Charles sucked in a ragged breath.  "Oh my God." He closed his eyes and opened them slowly.  This day was turning into a nightmare.

      Cassie studied his troubled face.  "I'm sorry Charles."

"Cassie..., we were together." he said, running his hand through his hair.

      "I know." Cassie said.

Charles shook his head, frustrated.  "We were together." he stressed, letting her know how serious this was.  "We made love."

      "I know Charles." Cassie repeated louder.  

"Twice!" Charles reminded her.  They had made love twice, both times unprotected.

      "You don't have to remind me Charles!    I know." Cassie spat, raising her voice.   "Don't look at me like that Charles." she pleaded.  His features were hard and his eyes turned cold.   He was really upset but was trying to hide it from her.   She couldn't blame him.  He was upset but with good reason. "I know your upset.  I knew you would be."

      Charles looked at her.  "Of course I'm upset Cassie." he admitted.  "How could I not be?"   She had just dropped a bomb on him.   "You could be pregnant."he sighed.    "Cassie..., I don't understand.  How did this happen?  We talked about this.   You promised you were being careful."he muttered discretely, careful so students wouldn't overhear their conversation.

      Cassie hated admitting how careless and irresponsible she had been.  "I don't know Charles." she blurted.   "It was prom and I was busy.  Claire and I were together and I guess I wasn't thinking.   I just didn't remember." she explained.  There was no other way to say it.  No other way to put it.  She had no good reason or excuse.   "I was careless and I'm sorry." she apologized.       

 Continuous Play, Looping mp3 Version.  mp3 track will play over and over

 Manual mp3 Version below. Will have to be reset manually to replay

      Charles whirled on her, turning to face her.    "What!?" he bit off loudly.  Surely, he must be hearing things.  He was beating himself up, blaming himself for not protecting her, trying to think of what they would do if she was pregnant and she stood there accusing him like it was all his fault.  She accused him as if she had no part in it.

      Cassie stepped closer to him.  "This is your fault too." she repeated angrily, staring up at him.

Charles touched his hand to his chest.  "Are you serious?!  How is this my fault!? he shouted unbelievably.  He knew Cassie was scared and nervous but that didn't give her the right to put all the blame on him. 

      "If I am pregnant, just remember, I didn't get pregnant all by myself." she said, her voice flat and cold.   "You're a part of this too."

      Charles glared at her, his eyes wide.  "And so are you!" he said firmly.   "I can accept responsibility and you should too.  You're as much to blame for this as I am Cassie.  Don't stand there playing innocent." he spoke loudly, his patience wearing thin.  He held his hands up and tried to speak rationally.  "Look..., let's just concentrate on what's important.  Did you take a pregnancy test?    When...when will you know?"

      Cassie was angry.  "Two weeks." she said quickly.  "Maybe this time you'll fit me into your busy schedule and be with me when I take the test."  She berated him.  Their last pregnancy scare had been a horrible experience.  Charles had promised repeatedly to be there for her, to be with her when she took the test but he kept putting it off, delaying.  He had been to busy with auto design school and running to Sage's side at the hospital.   Finally, she had given up on waiting for him and confessed to her mom.  In the end, it was her mom who had sat by her side, holding her hand as she took the test, not Charles. 

      Charles couldn't believe she was throwing that in his face.    This wasn't the time to rehash old troubles, old arguments.   "My busy schedule?"  Seriously?" he asked, his eyebrows raised.    "Don't take this out on me Cassie.  You're looking for someone to blame.  I'm not the one who forgot to take my pill because I was too busy getting my hair and nails done." he rounded, throwing out some insults of his own.   Silly as it may sound, that's what she had told him.  That was her excuse.  How insane was that?    They could be in serious trouble and she could be pregnant because she had lost track of time preparing for prom.  Apparently, prom had been more important than anything else. 

      Cassie's eyes narrowed.   She was furious.  If he wanted to trade insults she wasn't going to disappoint him.  "I'm not the one who woke you up in the middle of the night!" she said viciously, her eyes traveling up and down his body.  Her eyes were hard, flashing rebellion.    Her words were vicious, intentionally cruel and meant to hurt.

      Charles went quiet but then she saw when anger replaced his silence.  Her words set him off.  The muscle in his jaw flexed.  Cassie was being intentionally malicious and he didn't like it.  She made him sound like some kind of sex crazed freak and it couldn't be further from the truth.  He didn't appreciate it.   "You weren't exactly pulling away from me Cassie.  I've got the scratches on my back to prove it!" he growled furiously.    What they had shared was mutual.   She had been more than willing, giving herself to him again and again, clawing at his back, marking him. 

Cassie's mouth fell open in shock.  Charles saw the hurt in her eyes and regretted the words as soon as they left his lips.  He wasn't trying to hurt her.  They were both angry  and the words just came out.  "I'm sorry.  I didn't mean that." he apologized quickly.

      Cassie slapped his face hard, the weight behind her hand snapping his head back.  She felt insulted.  She felt like he was mocking her.   "I can't believe you just said that!" she cried, tears rolling down her cheek.

      Charles reached for her but she pulled away.  He apologized quickly.  "Baby I didn't mean it." he breathed softly, wishing he could take his words back.   "I'm sorry.  I love you.  You know I didn't mean it." he pleaded for forgiveness.   "Let's stop arguing and talk about what we're going to do.  You could be pregnant."

      Cassie wasn't very forgiving.  "I don't want to talk to you.  I really hate you." she sobbed, hoisting her bag up on her shoulder, taking off down the hallway.  Charles called after her but she kept walking, ignoring him.

Scene 18  Later That Day

!!*****************************************PLEASE READ***********************************************!!

The following scene between Charles and Cassie takes place simultaneously.  Think of it as a split screen if you will.  The paragraphs/parts are numbered for your convenience.  Please be sure to read them in order as the scene jumps between the two...(example.  part#1, then part #2, part #3...and so forth.)   Also, please stop and play the audio track below before reading any further.  Listen to the track as you read the remaining story to help envision the scene.  There are two music file versions, a continuous loop for those of you who choose to listen repeatedly and a manual version for those who prefer to listen only once.  Thanks.

 Continuous Play, Looping mp3 Version.  mp3 track will play over and over

 Manual mp3 Version below. Will have to be reset manually to replay

 Scene 19 

Eddie called Nadine on his cell to confirm their appointment. He grabbed his keys from his desk and headed for the door, glancing at his watch at the same time.  He winced and walked faster.  There weren't enough hours in the day. 

      Nate headed him off at the door.  "Hey....where you going?  It's not quitting time yet.  What's your hurry?"  He looked up at the wall clock.  "You still got at least another hour."

      Eddie brushed pass him, quickly excusing himself.  "I got to get to the bank, pay Nadine and finalize some details for Jenn's party.  See you tomorrow son."

      Nate smiled.  "Yeah...uh...how's that going by the way?" he questioned lightly.

Eddie responded, reaching for the door handle at the same time.   He really didn't have a minute to spare.  "Great." he confirmed.  "All I have to do now is keep Jenn from getting suspicious and being nosy.  You know how women are."  He swung the door open wide and started to leave.  "See you tomorrow son."

     Nate caught him by the shoulder.   "Hey uh...listen..um...can we talk?" He asked nervously.

Eddie hesitated.  He didn't want to keep Nadine waiting.  They were meeting at a local hotel, a potential venue for Jenn's party.  She wanted him to take a quick look at the place before confirming their plans.  "I'm a little bit caught up right now son.  Can it wait until tomorrow?"

       "No problem." Nate agreed quietly.  He slapped Eddie on the shoulder.  "Have a good one.  See you tomorrow."

Eddie sensed that his son was troubled.  "Wait..., is this about your mom?"  Dana was supposed to start treatment this week.  Maybe something was wrong, something Nate was hiding from him.

      "Dad...no...no, nothing like that." Nate put his mind at ease.  Eddie had his own family and problems but he really wanted him to talk with Jeron.  He had gotten through to him in the past and maybe he could talk some sense into him now.  He and Jeron were now sharing a room in his two bedroom apartment.  His mom was sick and she needed her privacy.  He had come home late last night from his part time job to find Jeron gone.  He had lain quietly, pretending to be asleep as Jeron had finally crept in right before dawn, stumbling drunk.  He had dived into bed fully dressed with the stench of marijuana all over him.    This morning, after coming in so late, Jeron had been dead tired and he had forced him to get up, shower and go to school.   If he had time to fool around in the streets all hours of the night, he had the time and energy to go to school.  Things were spinning out of control and he wanted to head this problem off before it escalated. 

      Eddie's face was full of concern.   "Are you sure?" he asked, requesting confirmation.

Nate held the door open, urging him to before he was late for his appointment.  "Yeah.  We'll talk tomorrow."

Scene 20

Jenn walked into the house, threw her purse down and immediately tied her apron on.  Dinner was going to be late.   An accident had held her up on the way home and she was a little behind schedule.   She let out an aggravated breath, and looked up at the ceiling, shaking her head.  Tay was at it again.  He was determined to please his father and do his part in completing the attic project but the noise, the constant hammering, the buzzing tools and the construction dust was driving her crazy.     She was tired and had a splitting headache.   Not only had she sat in traffic but her work day hadn't gone so well either.  This couple had accused her of giving their daughter the wrong medicine.  The doctors got involved and a simple misunderstanding turned into a huge argument in the middle of the clinic's waiting area.  A quick dinner and a warm bed sounded mighty tempting.

      Lizzie walked into the kitchen to gather silverware and napkins for the dinner table.  "Hi mom."

Jenn glanced back from the sink where she stood washing her hands.  She smiled.  "Hi honey.  If you're hungry grab a quick snack.   It'll be a while before dinner."

      "I'm fine." Lizzie said, watching Jenn scramble around the kitchen.  "You want some help?" she offered.

"Mm-hmm." Jenn murmured.  "Can you get the large salad bowl and help me with the vegetables.  I want to get this cobb salad made and chilled in the fridge."

 Continuous Play, Looping mp3 Version.  mp3 track will play over and over

 Manual mp3 Version below. Will have to be reset manually to replay

      Charles looked up, surprised but extremely happy to see Cassie.   "Hey." he said, glancing at his cell phone.  "I was just trying to call you again.  I left a few messages."he said.

      "I know." Cassie acknowledged.  "I'm sorry but I...I just needed some time to think.  We need to talk."she whispered, her voice soft and light.

     "I was worried about you.  I didn't mean to upset you earlier.  I'm sorry.  I didn't mean to insult you."Charles apologized.

"It's okay." Cassie responded.     "I'm sorry I yelled at you and I know that...I know that...,"she stammered,  "what happened isn't your fault." she admitted, her voice hoarse. 

      Charles brushed a few loose strands of hair away from her face.   He hated seeing her upset..., sad.  They had so much to talk about.  So much to figure out.   "Don't be sorry.  Let's just forget about it."
       
      Cassie's eyes darted up at him.  "Charles..., we need to talk about what we're going to do.   What happens if I'm pregnant?"she asked him, her full lips tightening and trembling.  "I'm really scared Charles." she murmured lightly. 

      Charles rubbed her arms. "Don't worry.  We'll talk about it.  We'll figure something out." he promised.  "Come on." he said, leading her into the back break room.  He sat on the couch and pulled her down beside him.

      Cassie blamed herself.  "I've really screwed things up haven't I?"

"Come on stop saying that.   We're in this together.  We're both responsible for what happened." Charles responded.  He couldn't let her take the blame for something they had both shared, both wanted. 

       "Charles, maybe we're just moving too fast.  Everything's going wrong."

"No." Charles disagreed.  "We're fine.  We love each other." he assured her.  "We just made a mistake."

      Cassie was full of doubt.  "But this wasn't suppose to happen.  This could change our future...completely change our lives.  We're not ready for this.  This isn't the right time."

      Charles trailed his fingers through her hair.  "I know..., you're right.  I'm not gonna lie to you.  If your pregnant it's really going to effect us.  Things are going to change."

      "Charles..., what about college..., everything we planned."she said worriedly.  "I wish I could turn back time and make this all go away.  Everything was perfect until I..."her voice trailed off. 

       "Cassie it's okay.  It was an accident.   You forgot and there's nothing we can do about it now."

"Are you prepared to be a father Charles?" she asked him, posing a serious question. 

      Charles's  grey eyes met her brown ones and for the longest time they sat staring at each other.  Each waiting for the other to speak and break the tension and silence.   Charles licked his lips.  "Cassie..., I'm not sure.  I'm not sure about anything right now but you're right, this isn't the right time.  He shifted on the couch and twined their fingers together.  She wasn't going to like what he was about to say but they had to talk about it.   "I've thought about us and our future and...uh," he faltered, trying to broach the subject delicately, "umm...we need to talk about our alternatives in case your pregnant."

      She stared at him and he wouldn't meet her eyes.  He looked uncomfortable and ashamed.  His eyes slid to the floor, looking everywhere but at her.  Something was wrong.  "What...what do you mean Charles?  I don't understand.  What alternatives?"  He had lost her.  What was he talking about? 

      Charles's eyes darted around the room nervously.  This was a sensitive subject but one they had to discuss.   "Cassie...you said it yourself, we may not be ready for this.  We still have college..., our careers.  We have our whole lives ahead of us.  How does a baby fit into all that?" he asked, smoothing her arms when he saw the concern on her face.  "If your pregnant, I think...," he paused and rubbed the back of his neck,  "I  uh....maybe we should consider waiting."

      Cassie sat up straight, a wary feeling taking over her.     She was confused.  "W...waiting?   Charles, I don't understand.   I know we didn't plan this and I don't want to be pregnant but if I am there's nothing we can do.  Our lives will change but...___"

      Charles interrupted her.  "Yes there is.  There is something we can do." he mouthed quietly, so quietly his voice was barely audible.  Regret and shame covered his face.

      A nervous shiver ran up Cassie's spine.  She finally realized what he was suggesting and she was too hurt and surprised to say the word out loud.  Her head bent, bringing her eyes level with his.  She needed him to clarify and tell her exactly what he meant.  "Charles what do you mean? What are you saying?" she questioned, regarding him cautiously,  holding her breath, to afraid to breath.  He was scaring her.

      Charles's head shook with despair.  He didn't want to hurt Cassie but he didn't see where they had a choice.  His solution  might sound harsh but he was only trying to protect them both.   "Cassie...baby..., I want kids..., I do.    Eventually..., someday, I want us to start a family but now isn't the time.   I think we'd be making a huge mistake if we went through with a pregnancy."

      Cassie's lips fell apart.  It felt like her whole world was caving in.  Her eyes watered and she stared at him in disbelief.  How could he?  How could he even suggest it?  She closed her eyes against the hurt and anguish she was beginning to feel.  "Charles...abortion?" she asked, her voice shaking uncontrollably.   "Abortion?" she repeated, her voice cracking on a shallow breath.

      Charles couldn't bring himself to look at her.  The look on her face and the sound of her quivering voice told him how deeply disappointed she was in him.  She made him feel so ashamed.

        Cassie caught his face in her hand, turning his head, forcing him to look at her.  If he had the nerve to suggest such a thing, she wanted him to look into her eyes and tell her.    Tears rolled down her face as she gathered the courage to ask him again.  "Charles...is that it?  Is that what you're saying?  You'd want me to abort our baby?   Our baby Charles!?"she cried out.   She sat there, crying uncontrollably..., wailing.  Her whole body shook.  She looked into his face miserably, waiting for him to take it back.  She wanted him to take his awful suggestion back.  Never in her life had she been so hurt and disappointed.  A pain like nothing she had ever felt before grew inside her heart.  She knew he had been terribly upset this morning.  She knew they hadn't planned for a baby but she never expected him to want this.  She never expected him to say such things.

        Charles knew his words sounded harsh..., uncaring and he didn't want to accept it any more than Cassie but they didn't have a choice.  It was for the best.   He tried to comfort her but she pulled away.  "Baby, I know how it sounds.  I do but it's an alternative.   I think we should at least consider an abortion or maybe even an adoption. I'm not trying to hurt you.  If I thought there was another way I wouldn't say this.  I wouldn't even suggest it."

      "No!....no!" she whispered harshly, refusing.  "Never!  I could never.  I can't.    How can you say that to me?  How could you expect me to do something like that?  Whatever the outcome may be..., I can't and I won't." she said, taking a stand.     "We're suppose to be in this together Charles and I thought you'd be here for me.  I thought you loved me." Cassie cried, her tears clouding her vision. 

      "I do love you." Charles spoke quickly, wanting to erase any doubt she might have.  He kissed her temple.  "I do love you." he repeated.  "That's why I'm thinking about you and your future..., our future, our time together.  Your thinking about a cute little chubby baby with nothing but happy times but it won't be that way.  Your thinking with your heart but we have to be logical and practical.  We have to realize and understand what we'd be faced with, what we'd be up against with a baby in our lives.   We'd be getting in over our heads.  I don't want our lives to be one big burden.  I don't want to live a hand to mouth existence..., struggling with a baby we can't afford to care for.  It won't be fair to us and it certainly won't be fair to a  child."

      "If you loved me you wouldn't ask me to abort our child or think about handing her away." Cassie wailed, crying so hard she could barely talk.  "How could you ask me to get rid of our baby?" 

      Charles tried reasoning with her.  "Cassie, I'm not trying to force you to do anything but we should at least consider it.  I think it will be for the best."

      Cassie pulled away from him, standing to face him.  Charles reached out for her but she snatched away.  She pointed her finger at him.  "No!....you're wrong." she sobbed.  She had come here to talk and work things out but things had taken a turn for the worst.  She felt like a fool.  A fool for loving him..., being with him and making love with him.  And most of all, a fool for possibly getting pregnant with his child, the same child he would expect her to do away with.  For a few brief minutes she had felt close to him again but now everything he had just said sunk in, putting up a barrier between them, separating them and their feelings.    "You're worried about our future but this baby could very well be our future.  If there's a baby, he or she should come before anything you and I ever planned, before everything else in our lives.   That includes c0llege, my art, our careers..., everything.  None of those things is going to keep me from having my baby.   They aren't important enough to convince me to abort or give our baby away.  If I'm pregnant, this baby becomes a priority and I'm keeping my baby Charles!" she yelled at him, holding her hands against her stomach.  "He or she will be a part of me...a part of us.  I want my baby and I'm keeping it..., even if it means losing you!"she spat, willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.   "I'm keeping it!.   I'm keeping it!" she yelled over and over again, slowly backing away from him, trying to get as far away from him as she possibly could.  "I'm keeping it!" she screamed.


Scene 23
Claire and Watkins ate dinner together.  She looked around the table.  She was certainly going to miss this these times.   Dinner time was their catch up time.  It's when they sat and talked and shared information about their day.  It's when they talked about school and his day on the job.  She was going to miss these times.  She sighed sadly.

      Watkins smiled and winked at her.  "What's wrong?  David broke your heart?" he teased softly. 

Claire grinned.  "Dad....stop it.  He did not." she smiled.

      Watkins took a sip of his ice tea.  "Then why the long face?" he asked.
 
"These last two weeks are going to go by fast." She reminded him of her departure.  She sat up in her chair with her elbows resting on the table.  "Dad...are you sure you're going to be okay here without me?"

      "Baby girl what are you talking about?" Watkins asked, wiping his mouth with a napkin.

"Well..., will you?" Claire asked again.  "Who's going to help you with the house..., the cleaning?  Who's going to help you in the kitchen, with the cooking and make sure you don't survive on frozen tv dinners?" she asked regrettably.

      "Baby girl I'm gonna be fine.  Stop worrying about me.  I'm the dad.  I'm suppose to worry about you."

"I can't help it." Claire said.  "You need someone here.  A woman...a...a girlfriend."she threw in slyly, snickering at him. 

      Her comment raised Watkins's eyebrows.  "Hold on there honey.   Now what makes you think I need a woman in my life?  Don't you go getting any ideas about playing matchmaker.  I like my life just the way it is.  Besides, I've had a taste of marriage and it left a bad taste in my mouth.  All I need are the basics...  a roof over my head, a refrigerator, the feel of a comfortable recliner, a cold beer and the sports channel.  I'll take all of those things and in that exact order." 

      "But dad, we've been here for a while now and you still won't talk to anyone besides the officers on the job and Mr. Sutton." Claire noted.    "I don't want you to be lonely when I'm gone."

      "Claire, there's nothing to worry about.  You know how I value my privacy.  There's nothing to worry about.  I want you to go with your mother and have fun.  I know you miss your family back home and like I said before, I'm okay with it.  Don't worry..., I'll see you this fall.  I plan on being at all the home basketball games and you'll be close enough so I can check up on you whenever I want.  Don't be surprised when you find me knocking on your dorm room door with  a care package in my hands.  Maybe I'll show up in full uniform, twirling my night stick so all the student's will know your dad's a cop.  What do you think about that huh?  What do you say to that?" he asked, trying to make her smile.  He succeeded.  Claire flashed her beautiful smile.

      "Oh no!....dad no.  Don't even think about it." Claire laughed.  "Please don't embarrass me."

Watkins pushed his chair back from the table, taking his plate.  "I thought you'd say that." he grinned, bending to kiss Claire goodnight. "Goodnight baby girl.  Dinner was delicious."

      "Goodnight dad." Claire replied. 
     

Scene 24
"I'm keeping it Charles!...I'm keeping it!...I'm keeping it!" Cassie yelled out, her head tossing on the pillow.  Suddenly, a hand squeezed her shoulder, gently shaking her.  There was a voice, someone talking to her.  The voice seemed to grow closer and closer, getting louder and louder.

      "Cassie!....Cassie baby wake up.  Honey wake up."

She followed the sound of the voice, tracking the sound and her eyes sprang open suddenly.  She rubbed her sleepy eyes and focused in on Jenn sitting on the edge of the bed beside her.  "Mom!" she breathed harshly, trying desperately to catch her breath.  She sat up quickly, throwing her arms around her, hugging the life out of her.  Thank goodness it had only been a dream.  Relief washed over her.  She had drifted off to sleep with thoughts of Charles dancing in her head and had dreamed terrible thoughts..., envisioned a dreadful conversation about the fate of their baby.   It had only been a terrible, horrible dream..., her worst nightmare.  Charles hadn't said all those awful things.  It hadn't happened. 

      Jenn breathed a huge sigh of relief and embraced Cassie in her arms, holding her.  Cassie's screaming voice had echoed throughout the house and she had rushed upstairs, busting into her room, terrified that something was wrong.    She pulled away and smoothed Cassie's tousled hair away from her face.  "Honey..., you nearly scared me to death.  That must have been some dream.  I heard you screaming all the way down stairs."

      Cassie swallowed hard.  "I'm sorry I scared you." she apologized.

"Honey, what were you talking about?   You're keeping it.  You kept saying that.  What?...What are you keeping?" Jenn asked. 

      Cassie avoided the question.  "I don't know.  Nothing...It was nothing.   My dream...it just seemed so real." she explained.  She couldn't reveal the real reason she had been screaming like a fool.  Thank goodness her mom hadn't overheard anything else.  The last thing she needed was to get busted for talking in her sleep.

      Jenn rubbed her shoulder.  "Are you sure you're okay?"

Cassie's head dropped low.  "Charles and I had a fight." she confided in her mom.

      Jenn caught her chin in her hand, forcing her to look up.  "Oh honey," she sympathized with her, "you guys have had arguments before and you always seem to work through them.  Everything will be okay."

      Cassie shook her head.  She wasn't so sure.  "No.  This was different mom.  He's really upset with me."

Jenn kissed her on her forehead.  The corners of her mouth turned up into a smile.   "Honey, Charles loves you.  He may be upset but whatever it is, I'm sure he'll come around.   Trust me.  If you want to talk about it you know you can come to me.  Okay?"

      Cassie nodded her head.  "Thanks mom."


Scene 25
David heard the doorbell and raced to answer the door.  He wasn't expecting any company.  He smiled as he saw Charles's reflection through the glass panel door.  He swung the door open wide for Charles to enter.  "What's up man?" he greeted.  He was surprised to see Charles alone.  "Where's Cassie?"

      "She's not speaking to me." Charles responded roughly.   Cassie was the reason he was here.  He was worried about her.  He needed someone to talk to...he needed to vent.

      David felt for him. "Oh man."  He knew how females could be..., totally in love with you one minute and ready to scratch your eyes out the next.  "So you're in the doghouse huh?" he laughed.

      Charles knew David wasn't aware of him and Cassie's problem but he was in no mood for jokes.  "David...come on man, this isn't funny." he said angrily. 

      "Alright." David backed down, sensing Charles's sour mood.  The same funky mood he had been in all day at school.  "Man, she must have really done a number on you to get you so uptight."

      "It's complicated." Charles breathed, frustrated.

David knew better than to pry.  Obviously, Charles and Cassie had argued and had a huge fight. Charles seemed pretty busted up about it. "Come on man," he said, "let's go out back and shoot some hoops." he suggested.  Nothing like playing a little b-ball to relieve the stress.  It always worked for him when he was upset and stressed out.  Maybe if Charles worked up a sweat it would take his mind off of Cassie. 

      David dribbled the ball on the outside patio and took his first shot.  

Charles made sure to set his cell phone within reach in case Cassie decided to call and shrugged out of his shirt.  Maybe this is what he needed..., a good work out.   Maybe it would help ease his mind, settle the giant knot deep within his stomach.   He turned to find David staring at him awkwardly, in shock.  "What?" he asked, feeling self conscious.

      "Ouch.  Damn man.  That looks painful."David responded. 

"What?!" Charles repeated, irritated with David's awkward behavior.  "What is it?"

      David dribbled the ball a few more times before passing the ball to Charles.    He gestured behind him. "You man...your back.  What the hell...?"  Charles had some serious scratches on his back.

      Charles sighed.  He didn't want to talk about it.  Yeah..., Cassie had done a real number on him and he was still a little sore.  He stood holding the basketball under one arm.   "I thought you said you wanted to play ball." he answered impatiently, quickly changing the subject.

      "Yeah." David confirmed, shaking his head at the sight of Charles's back.  Something or should he say someone..., Cassie..., had done some serious damage to his boy's back.

      Charles passed the ball back to David swiftly and hard.  "Then come on..., let's play."  He and David went at it, playing ball and sweating it out for over an hour but his head wasn't in the game.  David was all over him..., rebounding, with lay up after lay up, controlling the points. 

      "You are making this way too easy man.  Please tell me you're not gonna let me whip your but like this.  Come on man...focus." David said, scoring once again.  Charles had barely managed to get any shots in at all and the ones he did make weren't clean shots.   Whatever happened between him and Cassie must have been pretty serious because he was completely out of it.   David stopped the game...enough was enough.   He breathed hard and bent over, resting his hands on his knees, catching his breath.  "Look man, I know it's none of my business and I don't know what happened between you and Cassie but I'm sure she'll come around."

      Charles sat in a nearby patio chair and wiped the sweat from his brow.  He had to talk to someone.  This thing with him and Cassie was tearing him up inside.  "Cassie might be pregnant." he confessed to David.

      David propped one foot up on a nearby chair.  "What!?   Are you serious?" he asked, unable to hide his shock.   His face turned stiff.  This wasn't one of Charles and Cassie's simple little arguments.  This was serious.  No wonder the poor guy couldn't focus and function. 

      "Yeah." Charles said.  "We had an argument about it and I went off like an idiot..., made her cry."

David struggled to say the right thing.  "Well, you just said she might be.  So..., you don't know for sure."

      "Well, that doesn't exactly ease my mind.  It doesn't make me worry any less." Charles responded.     

David sat the ball on the table and took a seat next to Charles.  "Damn man.  This is serious."  It wasn't clear how Charles and Cassie had gotten themselves into this situation, how they had managed to slip up but it wasn't important.  All that mattered was his boy was in some serious trouble.

      With his head hung low, Charles agreed.   "Yeah tell me about it.  In a couple of weeks I'll find out if I'm going to be a father."  His head shook.  He couldn't seem to wrap his mind around the enormity of the situation. 

      David offered the best advice he could.  "Charles..., I know you're upset but there's nothing you can do until you know for sure.  Try not to worry about it."   

      "That's easy for you to say.  You don't have this problem hanging over your head."  Charles spit out, a bitter tone in his response.  "I don't want to be responsible for ruining her life." David had no idea what he was going through. How in the hell was he supposed to last through two weeks of torture?

David's hands went up in defense.  "You're right but all I'm saying is don't borrow trouble.  Until you know for sure..., just let it ride.  Stop beating yourself up.   You don't know anything for sure.  Either she is or she isn't but worrying yourself to death is not going to erase that possibility.    Just wait it out man.  Wait the two weeks and depending on what happens, you and Cassie can make some decisions."

      "How can we make decisions when she won't even talk to me?" Charles questioned.

"Give her some time." David advised.   "I'm sure she's just upset.  Once she calms down, she'll talk to you and if it turns out that she is pregnant, hopefully you two can work something out.  I mean..., I know you guys didn't plan for this to happen right now but you're together, you're already engaged and Cassie's going to be your wife.   You guys are already half way there.   Look at it this way, if Cassie's pregnant, it will just be a matter of speeding things along a little." David chuckled, trying to lighten Charles's mood.  "You two already act like an old married couple anyway.  It's like you're already married.  And judging from those scratches on your back..., I'd say she already has you whipped and henpecked."he teased, embarrassing Charles, making his face turn red.   "Who knows...maybe you'll have to make an honest woman out of her sooner than you think." he teased.  "I'd hate to see Officer Sutton force you into a shotgun wedding."he laughed.

      Charles couldn't help but laugh.  He was glad he had come.  It felt good to laugh after having such a horrible day.  He could always depend on David to joke around and cheer him up.

Please stop and play the audio track below before reading any further. Listen to the track as you read the remaining story to help envision the scene.    There are two music file versions, a continuous loop for those of you who choose to listen repeatedly and a manual version for those who prefer to listen only once.  Thanks.

  Continuous Play, Looping mp3 Version.  mp3 track will play over and over

  Manual mp3 Version below. Will have to be reset manually to replay

 Scene 26            Later That Evening
Cassie rang Charles's door bell.  She fell into his arms the minute he opened the door, holding him as tightly as she could.  "Charles..." she called out desperately.  She was so happy to see him.

      Charles was relieved to finally hear from her.  He forced her head up and caressed her face.  "Baby." he sighed.  "I was so worried about you.  I thought you were still upset with me."

      Cassie swallowed and shook her head.  She wasn't angry.  Not at all.  Not anymore.  All of the fight had gone out of her and she didn't want to argue anymore.  "Charles...we shouldn't be fighting.  Let's forget about it.  I don't want to talk about it."she said anxiously.

      "Okay...okay."Charles whispered against her temple, holding her tight.  "We don't have to but don't run away from me like that again.  I know you were upset but you can't avoid me.  Okay?"

      Cassie nodded.  No...no more avoiding and running.  She had come here and ran straight into his arms..., right where she belonged.  Charles turned with her in his arms, taking her into the house.   Once inside, he sat on the couch and pulled her onto his lap, into his arms. 

      Cassie rested her head against his warm chest.  This was the familiar warmth and heat she was accustomed to.  Sitting here with him now, she felt protected, like he could make everything alright.   "Charles, I'm really sorry for what I did.  I know I promised to be careful but I made a mistake.  I didn't mean it." she apologized.

      Charles smiled and nuzzled her nose with his.  "I know you didn't Cassie.  I'm not blaming you baby."

Cassie pulled away from him and rested her hands on his chest.  He was being so understanding but she needed his promise.     "Charles..., I need you to promise me something." she asked of him.

Charles caught her hand and placed a warm kiss against her palm.  "What?" he asked gently. 

       "If I'm pregnant, promise me we'll keep our baby.  Promise me." she pleaded with him.

"What are you talking about?" Charles stiffened, his face grew concerned.   

      Cassie lowered her lashes and looked away from his probing gaze.  "Nothing.  It's nothing.  Just forget it." she pretended.  She didn't want to tell him about her dream.

      There was something.  Something she wanted to say and Charles knew it.  Why would she ask him such a strange question?  His eyes fixated on her face and he took her hand in his. He studied her with curious scrutiny.  "Cassie, what is it?  What do you mean?"   

      "I just need to know...," she hesitated, "I want to be sure nothing will happen to our baby." she whispered.

Charles's brow drew together in confusion.  His hand stroked down her spine, comforting her, urging her to explain. "Like what?  What could possibly happen?"

      Cassie pushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear.  "I know we're young and it won't be easy but no matter what happens, I don't want to give her away and I don't want an abortion."

      Complete shock covered Charles's face.  His eyes blazed. "What?!" he exclaimed.  "What kind of question is that?  Don't say that!"he choked out.  His tone was rough and harsh..  "It's not an option and we don't need to discuss it."

      "I'm sorry Charles but you were so angry.  I didn't know what to think...what to expect.  I just want to be sure we both want the same things." Cassie explained herself.

      Charles's gray eyes pinned her.  Her comment hurt him.  How could she possibly think him capable of something like that?  "You really think I'd ask you to do that...huh?   What kind of man would I be if I asked you to get rid of our baby..., or walk away while some stranger raises him?"

      Cassie's eyes fluttered downward.  She shouldn't have doubted him. 

Charles slid his hand under her hair and caressed the back of her head.  "Listen to me..., if your pregnant, we're going to do everything possible to make things work and we're keeping our baby no matter what."he promised.  "I'll find a way to take care of you if you're pregnant.  I'll take care of you and our baby.  I love you.  I'll do whatever it takes."

      Cassie smiled at him. His tone was so tender it made her heart ache and made her want to cry. 

Charles stared at her belly and held his hand against her stomach. "We'll take the test and we'll deal with whatever happens.  Until then, I want you to try not to worry."

      Cassie covered his hand with her own and buried her face in his neck.  Things were going to be okay.  They had to be.  She and Charles loved each other and they'd deal with their problems together.

Jenn sat up in bed as Eddie entered.  "Honey...,hi..., you're finally home.  I tried to hold dinner for you but the kids were really hungry."she explained.  "There's plenty of cobb salad.  I know it's your favorite."

      "Thanks hon.  Yeah...we worked a little longer than usual." Eddie fabricated.  He didn't want to lie to Jenn but he had to tell her something.   His focused on one spot on the wall.  Jenn knew him through and through.  They had been married for years.  If she looked into his eyes she'd know he was lying.  He couldn't wait for this party to be over so he could stop all of this lying and sneaking around.

      "Honey I just think this is too much..., coming in so late and then having to be up at the crack of dawn, back on patrol.  You've been working really hard lately." Jenn sympathized with him.

      "It's all a part of the job honey." Eddie added.  "We've got quite a few new officers on the squad and Sergeant Myers is really cracking the whip, sticking it to us, pushing the overtime.  He wants us to set a good example for these guys and make sure they realize this is real world street training.  Fun days at the police officer training camp are over." Eddie offered as explanation, stripping out of his uniform shirt.  He rubbed his neck.   "Whew!..., honey..., I've had one hell of a long day." he complained, quickly removing his service weapon along with his belt.   He was dead tired but not because of work.  Who knew it took so much time and energy to plan a party? His meeting with Nadine had taken much longer than expected but she had thoroughly impressed him with her professionalism, going over every small detail..., food and drinks for the menu, the venue, and the music.  They had compiled a list of Jenn's favorite foods and songs and to his delight, sampled some good wine before making final menu selections.  This was going to be one hell of a party.

        Jenn felt sorry for him. He looked beat.  "Honey..., you look exhausted.  I think you should ease up on the overtime..., just a little.  I don't want you to burn yourself out."  She had asked him repeatedly to shorten his hours.  He didn't need all the overtime  Financially, they were doing okay and still had adequate savings in the bank.  He could afford to rest and relax a little but he just wouldn't let up.  Cassie was about to start college and he wanted to make sure things stayed secure.  He felt it was important to stay ahead and save as much as they possibly could. 

      Eddie's eyes traveled over her and he shot her a wicked grin.  "It's nothing a long hot shower, a little food and a little lovin from my beautiful wife won't take care of." he said seductively, strutting over to the bed. 

       Jenn breathed a soft sigh of expectation.  The house was quiet and the kids were asleep.  The perfect opportunity for a little snuggle time with her husband.  She teased and flirted with him..., batting her eyelashes playfully, turning her voice into a sensuous purr.  "Oh you sweet talker you.  Someone sure is in a good mood." she laughed. 

      Eddie undid his belt, kicked his shoes off in a hurry and dived on the bed, pulling Jenn into his arms, tickling her, teasing her.  "Oh I'm in the mood alright.  I'm tired but not that tired and who needs cobb salad when I can have this?"  he said huskily, leaning in for a kiss.     

       Jenn froze, going completely still the moment he got close, as soon as their lips met.   There was that smell again.  That perfume..., Chanel No.5. and his kiss tasted like alcohol.  She frowned and pushed at his shoulder, pushing him away.

      Eddie reached for her but she pushed him away again, only this time even harder.  "What's wrong?" he asked, sniffing his t-shirt to see if it smelled.  "Do I need to take a shower?" he joked, laughing hard.  

      Jenn was in no laughing mood.  She rolled away from him and sat up against the pillows.  "Have you been drinking?"

"What?" Eddie asked.  His forehead wrinkled and his face contorted with confusion. 

      Jenn's tone turned serious.  "It's a simple question Eddie.  Have you been drinking?" she repeated firmly.

Eddie drew in a shuddering breath.  He realized Jenn must have smelt the alcohol, the wine on his breath.  He could kick himself for slipping up.  Of course she did.  He'd spent the better part of the evening sampling wines.  He didn't have to ask to know she was upset.  She looked murderous and her eyes shot furious daggers at him.  She stared at him and it felt like she was looking right through him.  "Jenn look..., I can explain."

      "I'd like to hear you do that Eddie." Jenn hissed.  "You said you were working late.  Since when did you start drinking on the job?"  She didn't know where he had been or where he had come from but he hadn't been working late.  She was sure of it and she was furious. She wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt.  She wanted to trust and believe in the sanctity and bonds of her marriage and hadn't questioned him when she caught him talking with Nadine.  Even after finding her number in his pockets, she had still tried to be strong and portray the ever loving, trustworthy wife but Eddie was making it impossible to trust him.  

      Eddie pulled a fast one and lied through his teeth.  "I'll admit I didn't work as late as I normally do.  Watkins and I worked a couple extra hours and decided to have a quick drink on the way home.  That's all.  Nothing to be concerned about."he explained, curving his arm around her waist, pulling her close to him. 

      Jenn didn't believe the lying squandrel for a second.   She tossed his arm aside and rolled over, turning her back to him.  "I'm really tired right now Eddie."  She didn't want him kissing her or touching her..., let alone making love to her.  In fact, she didn't even want him looking at her.  She felt his eyes lingering on her body and pulled the bed covers over her night gown, covering herself up.  He had already proven he was a liar, denying that he had spoken to Nadine after church and she was beginning to believe he was also a cheat. 

      Undeterred, Eddie snuggled closer to Jenn, kissing her shoulder.

"I'm not in the mood Eddie." Jenn growled, her body stiffening against his. 

     Eddie continued on, ignoring her protest, massaging her stomach with his big hand.

Jenn brushed his hand away, pulling the covers even tighter around her body, rejecting him.  "I said no." she mouthed dryly, her patience with him wearing thin.

      Eddie threw his hands up in the air, defeated.  "Come on Jenn." he begged.   She had gotten him all worked up and now she was giving him the cold shoulder.    

       Jenn bolted straight up with lightning speed.  She whirled on him.  "Maybe if you had come home at a decent hour, like most men,  instead of hanging out and drinking with the guys, I'd be more inclined!  Maybe I'd be in the mood!" Jenn snapped angrily.  She didn't think it was possible to be so upset with someone.  The more she looked at him the angrier she became.  He was lying about his whereabouts and who he had spent the evening with.   The man she knew, her husband, would never be unfaithful to her but things just weren't adding up.  First, he had lied to her.  Now, he was coming home late reeking of perfume and alcohol.  She wanted to confront him, accuse him of being unfaithful but what if she was wrong? Her mind told her he was having an affair but her heart wouldn't let her believe it.  She needed some answers because her faith in him was dwindling fast.

      Eddie's temper flared at her comment.  He couldn't believe it.  How in the world had their loving conversation and mood turned into a huge argument?  Was this the same woman who wanted to make passionate love to him a few minutes ago?  Somehow or another he had gotten lost in this conversation.  Jenn was upset over nothing.    "Most men?" he frowned.  "What the hell is that suppose to mean?" he bit off angrily, his dark eyes flashing.  "I thought I'd come home and spend a nice quiet night making love to my wife after a long day at work but instead I get the cold shoulder and a crazy argument." he shouted.  "You know..., most women...___"

      Jenn cut him off, stopping him mid-sentence.  She met him with bitter unsmiling eyes and dared him to finish his sentence.  She was in no mood to hear his ideas and thoughts on most women.  "Most women what?!    What Eddie!?  You were saying...?    Why don't you tell me about these women your obviously comparing me to?  I honestly don't know what's gotten into you lately but I don't like it one bit."

      Eddie stared at her and shrugged his shoulders. "What?!  Lately?!"he questioned outrageously.  "Jenn, I don't know what's going on here but you're not making any sense.   You make it sound like I'm making a habit out of it.  So...I had a few drinks.  It was one evening.  It's nothing to get overly upset about.  Let's not blow things out of proportion.  This is crazy." he said, rubbing her shoulder.  "Come on honey.  Take it easy.  Lighten up." he smiled. "You know...I'm beginning to think you've been drinking." he teased, his voice thick with suppressed laughter.  The corners of his mouth lifted with the hint of a smile.

      "Excuse me..."Jenn rounded. 

"Either you've been drinking or there's something in the cobb salad." Eddie laughed, affectionate humor covering his face.  He  chuckled softly, totally disregarding the serious nature of their conversation.  Jenn was taking things way too seriously.  She wasn't going to let this go and was spoiling for a fight.

      "I fail to see the humor in this.  I'm happy you're amused." Jenn muttered.  She grabbed his pillow and smacked it against his chest.  Eddie had been out all evening, up to no good and he had the audacity to laugh about it and make her feel like she was overreacting.  "We'll see how funny you are when you're sleeping on the couch."

      Eddie's face turned grim and his smile quickly faded.  "No...come on Jenn.  Are you serious?" Eddie pleaded, desperately wanting to sleep in his nice comfortable warm bed.  "Not again."   Just a few months ago he had been kicked out of his bed and forced to sleep on the lumpy sofa bed.  His back had ached for a week.   "Do you want me to ruin my back?"

      Jenn pulled a bottle of pain relievers from her night stand and slapped them into his hand.  "Goodnight." she responded curtly.  "There are blankets and extra pillows in the hallway closet."  

      Eddie grabbed his pillow and let loose a string of oaths, swearing.  If this didn't take the cake.  He stomped out of the room,  slamming the door behind him.

Jenn flew out of bed the moment the door closed.  She couldn't wait to check his shirt pockets.  True to the old saying, she went looking for trouble and she found it.  There was an Adam's Mark Hotel parking garage receipt in his left pocket.  What in the world had he been doing at a hotel?   His cell phone lay on the his night table, silently tempting to her to search his call log.  Her heart sank.  To her dismay and disappointment, an outgoing call had been made to Nadine earlier that evening.  Something must be going on between Eddie and Nadine.  Well one thing was for sure.  What he did in the dark would eventually come to the light.

Scene 28

Jenn crawled out of bed and winced at the bright sunlight beaming in from the window.  The morning greeted her with a splitting headache.  She rubbed her temples trying to ease the pain away.  She didn't feel well.  Worried about Eddie and her marriage, she had tossed and turned throughout the night, only managing to catch a couple hours sleep.  Eddie probably hadn't faired much better,  all cramped and squeezed onto an uncomfortable couch for the night.  She stared over at his empty spot in the bed and closed her eyes against the pain, concern and frustration she was feeling.  The bed felt so huge and cold with him missing.  

    Thank goodness the kids hadn't depended on her this morning and had manged to drag themselves out of bed.  She could hear them up and about arguing over who was going to use the bathroom first.  She threw on her bath robe, rushed to the bathroom to ready herself and out into the hallway just in time to stop Lizzie from clobbering Tay with her hair brush.  

She pulled the brush from Lizzie's hands and shook her head.   Between Eddie and the kids...,  she was lucky she managed to crawl out of bed and see everyone off in the mornings.  "Lizzie Sutton what has gotten into you?!  You know better than to treat your brother like this." she argued.

     Lizzie rolled her eyes in frustration as Tay stood peeking through the bathroom door with a smirk on his face.  "It's my turn to go first mom.  Tay's a guy and he spends more time in the bathroom than Cassie and I combined.  A whole lot of difference it's going to make anyway.   Nothing's going to help that ugly face." she insulted, leering at Tay with evil eyes.

Tay stuck his tongue out and slammed the bathroom door.

     Jenn breathed in deeply.  It was too early in the morning for this.  So much for wishing for a peaceful day.  Her night had ended with a horrible fight with Eddie and now she awoke to screaming, fighting kids.  What more could a mother ask for?  This was so not the morning she needed.  "First?" she repeated.    "What do you mean first?   Since when is their a bathroom schedule?  If you all would get up on time you wouldn't have to argue over the bathroom every morning." she explained patiently, handing Lizzie her brush back.

     Lizzie shrugged her shoulders."Tay and Cassie and I came up with a system." she explained, counting the days of the week on her fingers.   "Cassie goes first on Mondays...Tay on Tuesday's and I go first on...____"

     Jenn held up her hands interrupting Lizzie.  "Okay...okay...I get it." she said,  exasperated by Lizzie and Tay's antics.  "We'll talk about this schedule later but if it will keep you from attacking your brother you have my permission to use my bathroom.

     Lizzie headed quickly for the bathroom.  "Thanks mom." she called out.  "Great.  Now I won't have to wait anymore."

"Don't get comfortable.  This is only for this morning honey and where's your sister?" Jenn asked, headed for Cassie's door.

     "Asleep!" Lizzie called out, rushing off to the bathroom.

      Jenn knocked hard on Cassie's door, pounding with her fist.  Cassie was usually the one who tied up the bathroom in the mornings.  Hopefully she was up and dressed and not fast asleep and still in bed.  "Time for school Cassie!" she yelled through the door.  "Make sure you're not tardy young lady!" she warned.

     Cassie froze in place at the sound of the knock.    She had been awake for hours and sat on her bed staring at the pregnancy test, worrying herself to death.  She dashed the pregnancy test under her bed covers, effectively covering up any sign of trouble.  She feigned a calm, carefree attitude before jerking her bedroom door open.  She didn't want her mom to get any idea something was wrong. 

         "Mom please." Cassie pleaded softly.  "Stop yelling.  I'm up.  I couldn't sleep."  She hadn't slept a wink last night and had finally crawled out of bed at five o'clock in the morning.  She was dressed and ready for school but her mind was a million miles away..., still wrecked with so many questions and emotions of her and Charles's situation. 

     Jenn rubbed Cassie's shoulder with motherly concern.  "Couldn't sleep?" she repeated worriedly, concern showing on her face.  "Honey are you sick?  Are you feeling okay?"she questioned.  Cassie had been behaving strangely ever since prom.  Something was obviously wrong.  "Is this about the argument you had with Charles?  Honey I told you...you and Charles are going to have arguments from time to time.  It doesn't mean you don't love each other.  It's just an argument.  Trust me...it will be okay."

     Cassie nodded her head softly.  If only this were about a simple little argument.  It was so much more than that. "You're right.  I guess I'm just over reacting."

     "You sure you're going to be okay?" Jenn confirmed, smiling.

Cassie forced a smile.  "I'm fine mom."  she verified but she wasn't.  She was so scared and uptight her stomach was doing somersaults inside. 

     "Okay come down for breakfast." Jenn said, heading for the stair case.

Cassie watched her walk away and called out to her.  "Mom?"   She wanted to talk to her...to tell her what was going on so badly but was it the right thing to do or should she simply keep quiet and pretend like everything was fine?  After all, maybe there was nothing to worry about.  Maybe she wasn't pregnant but the not knowing...the unknown...the waiting was killing her and she was dyeing inside with worry.  Yes she had Claire as a friend...someone to confide in but at the moment Claire had her own problems and ordeal with David.   Charles was putting on a brave front, being strong for her so she wouldn't worry so much but she knew he was just as scared.  Last night he'd held and rocked her in his arms, told her not to worry,  promised her they'd keep their baby no matter what.   She had cried on his shoulder but right now she just needed her mommies shoulder to lean and cry on.  

      Jenn turned to face Cassie.   She was met with a face full of dread and despair.  Yes...something was wrong..., very wrong.  She knew her daughter and this solemn, gloomy person wasn't Cassie.  The look on her face spoke volumes. Something was bothering her.  She walked back to Cassie and took both her hands into her own.  Cassie looked very sad and she wanted her daughter to confide in her.  "Alright honey tell me what's wrong.".

      "Um...everything's not okay." she admitted, dropping her head low, wondering what to say next, how to broach the subject.

Jenn squeezed Cassie's hands, trying to reassure her.  "Honey whatever it is you can tell me."

     Cassie pulled her hands away and leaned against her bedroom door for a little added support.  She stood there with both hands twined together in front of her, twisting her fingers nervously.  She stared down at her new engagement ring and realized with all the chaos and commotion that went on after prom, her mom hadn't seen her ring.  She twisted the ring back and forth on her finger and held her hand up,  silently showcasing her beautiful engagement ring.

     "Oh honey." Jenn exclaimed in soft delight, holding Cassie's hand in the palm of her hand, admiring the ring.  A huge smile covered her face. 

     Cassie really wanted her mom's approval.  "Do you like it mom?  Isn't it beautiful?"

Jenn caressed Cassie's cheek lovingly.  "Honey it's beautiful.  Absolutely beautiful...stunning." she said, admiring the cut and clarity of the stone.    She didn't know a lot about fine jewelry but she knew quality when she saw it and Cassie was wearing a very expensive engagement ring.  Undoubtedly her mind began to wonder and she became a little anxious and uneasy.  She hoped this wasn't what she thought it was.  Cassie and Charles had ran off once before to get married.  She hoped and prayed they weren't thinking of doing something spontaneous and crazy again.  "Honey Charles isn't pressuring you is he?"

     Cassie stared at Jenn, wide eyed and puzzled...a confused frown on her face.  "Pressuring me...?   How?"

Jenn searched for the right words that wouldn't upset Cassie.   "Honey..., I know you and Charles love each other but I hope you two aren't thinking about getting married." she said, the tone of her voice turning very serious.

     "Mom no!" Cassie blurted.  "No!" she repeated.   "Mom we're not getting married." Cassie said matter-of-factly, easing Jenn's nerves.  That creep at the Revolution took my ring and Charles surprised me with this one." 

     Jenn breathed a sigh of relief.  "I'm sorry Cassie but honey you've been really quiet and remote for the last few days and now you have this expensive ring.  I'm not sure what to make of this but I think you'll feel better if you let it all out and talk to me.  Is this what you wanted to talk to me about...why you've been so upset lately?    Were you afraid your father and I would over react..., jump to conclusions about your engagement ring?  

     "Yes." Cassie lied convincingly.  This had nothing to do with a ring but now obviously wasn't the right time to talk to her mom.  So much for trying to be honest.  A simple engagement ring had sent her mom's mind racing with questions of an upcoming wedding.  Mention of a possible pregnancy would surely send her over the edge.  No..., now was not the time to be honest.  "Mom I didn't want you and dad to worry that Charles and I were eloping again."

     Jenn laughed.  "Well I guess I'm guilty as charged."  She had indeed over reacted.  As soon as she'd seen the ring thoughts of marriage had clouded her mind. 

     "Will you tell dad?  I don't want him to give Charles a hard time about my ring.  I love it mom and Charles went through a lot of trouble for me to have it." Cassie said proudly. 

     Jenn's smile widened.  "Why don't you tell him yourself during breakfast?  I'm sure he'll understand."

Scene 29

David and Claire hung out in the hallway before class.   Claire leaned against him for support and yawned.  She had stayed up all night long studying for a test and was dead tired and morning wasn't her favorite time of day.

     David shook her gently.  "Hey princess..., come on, wake up."  He mumbled in her ear, smiling down at her.

Claire felt David's lips against her ear and stiffened against him.  She frowned, lifted her head and stretched.  "Stop smiling so much." she teased, laughing softly.  "It's too early in the morning to be so cheerful."

      "No it's too nice of a day to be so grumpy.  I'm going to turn you into a morning person yet.  You just watch me." David responded, steadily smiling.  Claire was right.  He was beyond cheerful.  He was happy...ecstatic.  The heart pendant necklace he had purchased for her was ready.  The jeweler had engraved both their initials on the back of the piece and he couldn't wait to surprise her with it.  He knew she would love it and look beautiful wearing it.  She had been a little down and remote lately and he was hoping his surprise would help cheer her up. 

     "Never." Claire groaned on a hoarse whisper.  "My mind and body don't start working until about twelve o'clock." Claire replied jokingly.

     David planted a quick kiss on Claire's lips.  "Yeah right.  You're just grumpy." he muttered. 

"I am not grumpy." Claire denied, trying hard to hold back her smile.  "It just takes me a little while to get going in the mornings is all."

      David pulled her close.  "Yeah you are but you're cute so I'm gonna let you slide.   Hey...want to come over to my place after school?" he asked gently.  He hoped she would say yes.  He wanted them to be alone when he gave her the pendant.  "My mom's working second shift so we'll have the place to ourselves."

     Claire shook her head, refusing.  "No sorry babe.  I promised my mom I'd have dinner with her this evening.  Maybe tomorrow okay?"

     David shrugged his back pack further up onto his shoulders.   Great....he now had the necklace but was having trouble getting Claire over to his house.  "Uh...uh  I was hoping we could have some time to ourselves this evening...just you and me.  Please...it's important." he pleaded. 

      Claire closed her eyes and turned away from the site of him, away from David's chiseled lips and the kiss she wanted so badly.  David really knew how to tempt a girl.  She had unwillingly promised herself there would be no further intimate moments with David.  She planned on leaving with her mom and didn't want things to get anymore complicated than they already were.  To continue an intimate/sexual relationship would only make matters worst.  The thought of being close to him, all alone with him in a quiet house, in or near the bedroom where they had shared so much scared her.  Would she be able to resist him...walk away from him?    "What's so important it can't wait until tomorrow?" she questioned, staring David down with a glaring glance. 

       David lips curled into a boyish grin.  "It's nothing.  I just can't stop thinking about you.  Can't a guy have some time with his girl?  Come on...say yes.  Hang out with me."

Claire studied David with curious scrutiny.  She was suspicious.  David was up to something.  She finally conceded.  "Okay I"ll come over after I have dinner with mom but what are you up to David Gibbs?"

      David avoided the question with another quick kiss on Claire's cheek.  He shook his head. "You are your father's daughter." he smirked.  "So suspicious.  It's nothing.  Listen I got to see Coach Matherson.  Bye babe."

      Claire yelled after him.  "Okay but you better not be up to anything sneaky David!" she smiled.

Scene 30

Eddie stood folding his bed linen away and eyed Jenn awkwardly from the corner of his eye as she came downstairs.  "Ugh." he groaned out loud, stretching his body, massaging the soreness from his neck, trying desperately to get Jenn's attention and sympathy.  He was sore as hell and aching with cramped muscles from sleeping on the couch.  A little compassion or maybe even a nice relaxing back rub from Jenn would be nice but the look on her face told him he shouldn't press his luck.  Her expression was grim and she wasn't making eye contact..., which could only mean one thing.  She was still angry at him from last night.  Truth be told, he deserved every angry word and insult she threw at him last night.  He had lied but he was lying with good reason...if there was such a thing as a good reason for lying.  Who knew planning a surprise party would be so difficult?  He'd never lied to his wife so much in his life.  The sooner this party was over the better because if he got caught up in one more lie he was sure Jenn's next move would be kicking him off of the couch to having him sleep outdoors.  Either that or she would be handing him his walking papers.   

       Jenn felt Eddie's piercing glance on her as she walked downstairs.   

"Good morning." Eddie choked out on a rough morning voice.

      Jenn walked into the family room.  She blew out a frustrated sigh.  Might as well get this conversation over with now.  They were two adults and they needed to handle themselves as such.  "Good morning." she responded, folding her arms.   For a brief moment she and Eddie stood staring at each other silently and then they both spoke at once.     

       "Look Honey...___" Eddie started.

"Eddie I know...___" Jenn began.

      Eddie grinned and held his hands up, silently asking Jenn to hear him out.  "Just let me say something.  I was out of line and I apologize.   You're right.  I should have told you about my plans.  I'm sorry and it won't happen again.  You have my word." he promised.

     Jenn clasped both hands together in prayer fashion.  Eddie thought this was about him being with the fellas after work but it was so much more.   "Eddie..., this isn't about you having a simple drink with your friends.  I'm your wife but I certainly don't expect you to get my approval on every minor detail of your day but...____".   she hesitated.  How could she question him without sounding like a crazy, insecure, jealous wife..., without sounding like an accuser?  

     "But what...?" Eddie prompted.

Jenn took Eddie by the hand and led him to the couch, coercing him to sit with her.  She spoke to him, never once letting go of his hands.  "Eddie..., you and I have always been more than honest and upfront with each other.  It's a part of our marriage, our partnership that I love and look forward to." she explained, shifting closer to him.  "Honey if there was something wrong or something troubling you..., you would come to me wouldn't you?"

      Eddie's face contorted.  "Of course I would Jenn." He flashed a smile and rubbed her shoulder.  " Jenn we've had arguments before.  Why are you making this sound so serious?"

      Jenn stood up and walked over to the window, giving Eddie her back to stare at.  Needless to say she was sadly disappointed in him.  She'd given him an opening to be honest and upfront with her and he hadn't taken it.  In some ways she felt a little foolish.  Of course he didn't hand out information willingly.  Honestly..., what did she expect him to say?  Yes Jenn I'm seeing Nadine the choir director.  She stood staring out the window with a blank stare.  "Eddie...you've been evasive, distant and a little unpredictable.  With all your long hours we barely have personal time together and I just...__".  She began but was interrupted when Eddie came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist.  She felt the warmth of him against her back.

      Eddie spoke quietly behind Jenn.  Just as he'd suspected, Jenn was becoming wary of his long hours and little white lies.  "I know.  I know things have been a little different but trust me it won't be for much longer.  Once we get the new officers settled in at the station the over time will stop and I'll be back to normal hours, back to my usual cheerful self.  Between work and helping Tay with the attic I've been stretched a little thin.  I'm tired and I know I've been a little grumpy and a little irritable lately but I promise I'll make it up to you.    I'm over worked and stressed but it's nothing I can't handle.  Trust me."   

      Jenn's lips flattened.  There was so much Eddie wasn't saying, wasn't telling her but hopefully and with a little luck, prayer and faith her doubts and concerns about her marriage would turn out to be unwarranted.  She loved Eddie.  She trusted him but she was human and had doubts.  If Eddie was lying to her..., if there was something going on between him and Nadine,  she knew in time all of their lies and secrets would be exposed and come crumbling down.  Bad things had a way of revealing themselves that way.  She plastered a forced smile on her face.  "Okay.  I'm sorry but I'm worried about you."

      Eddie stood rotating his shoulders and craning his neck.  He hurt all over.   "Does this mean I'm off the couch and back in my bed?" he asked playfully.

      Jenn tilted her head, pretending to be in deep thought.  "Hmm...well that depends.  How did you sleep?" she teased mockingly. 

Eddie shook his head.  "Honey I got aches in places you don't want to know about.  If you gonna keep putting me on the couch..., we definitely need to invest in a comfortable sofa." he teased, staring at the old couch with disgust.

      Jenn burst out laughing.  "Uh-huh....we'll just see about that." she smiled.

"We better get dressed or we're going to be late for work." Eddie mentioned, staring at Jenn still in her bath robe.

      "I think I'm going to take the day off, get some rest.  I'm feeling a little under the weather honey."

"Okay." Eddie nodded.  "I'll get Cassie to stay home with you.  You shouldn't be here by yourself if you're sick."

      Jenn refused.  "Honey no.  I'm not sick.  I'm just a little tired.  I'll be fine here by myself."

"You sure?" Eddie asked.  It wasn't like Jenn to take time off from work.  

      Jenn smiled reassuringly.  "Yes I'm sure.  I didn't sleep much last night.  It's nothing a few hours in bed won't cure."

"Okay but you call me today if you need anything okay?" Eddie stated.  "Hopefully I'll be home on time tonight.  Tay and I are finally going to wrap up this attic project."

      "Oh...speaking of the attic, I need the receipts for all the supplies and equipment.  I need to register the warranties and keep records." Jenn said.  Tay had a lot of expensive equipment and from the looks of the attic, Eddie had spared no expense on the renovations.  Tay had his very own studio with everything from insulated walls, hardwood flooring, spot lights and more.

      Eddie winced and scratched his head.  The attic expenses was his way of covering up the charges for Jenn's party.  He'd withdrawn money from their savings account to pay Nadine and purchase supplies for the attic.  He didn't want Jenn snooping around, looking at receipts and bank statements.  If she saw the amount of money he had already spent she would be furious and start asking questions. 

      Jenn noticed Eddie's look of dread and apprehension.  "Honey....you do have the receipts don't you?"

Eddie looked everywhere but into Jenn's eyes.  He looked at the floor, out the window...the wall behind her head but not once did he make eye contact with her.  If only he could dig a hole to escape Jenn's probing gaze.  He shifted from one foot to the other nervously.  "I do." he mouthed but not very convincingly.   One thing was for sure, there was no way he could let Jenn see any kind of receipt or statement until this party was over.  She'd start digging and snooping and the whole surprise would be blown.

    Jenn crossed her arms and tapped her feet.  She held out her hand.  "Okay then where are they?"

Eddie shot Jenn a sheepish look.  "Not on me.  Not here right at this moment."he answered evasively.

     Jenn shook her head.  She knew her husband.  His idea of record keeping and organized paper work amounted to boxes and bags of an unorganized mess.  He'd be lucky if he could find one receipt. 

     Eddie relented.  He had to give some kind of explanation.  "Jenn I promise I will gather up everything once Tay and I finish the attic."

     Jenn glared at Eddie.  "At least tell me you stayed on budget."  

Eddie stood with a goofy look on his face.  "Come on Jenn.  You've seen the renovations.  That's high quality stuff.  You can't put a price on quality."  Eddie glanced at his watch.  "Can we talk about this later.  I'm gonna be late for work." 

    Jenn threw her hands up in the air.  She gave up.  "Fine.  Tell the kids to come down for breakfast."

Scene 31

Dana knocked on Nate and Jeron's bedroom door.  "Jeron!....boy you better get up and crackin or you gonna be late for school.  It's a shame I have to bang on your door every morning!"

      Nate slowly opened the door.  He was hoping Jeron would have came home in the wee hours of the morning like he usually did but there was no sign of him.  He didn't his mom to worry but Jeron hadn't come home at all last night.  

      "Wake your brother up.  I swear sometimes I feel like he's ten years old..., still acting like a baby." Dana complained.

Nate opened the door a little wider.  "He's not here mom.  He didn't come home last night."

      Dana's eyes turned cold.  "What?!   Where is he?!"

Nate tried to reassure his mom.  "I don't know mom but don't worry I'm gonna go look for him.  I know a few of his hang out spots and some of his friends.  He probably just spent the night at one of his buddie's house.  Don't worry I'll find him." Nate promised, grabbing his keys, heading for the front door.

      Dana stopped him.  "I'm coming with you.  I'm so sick of that boy.  If this cancer don't kill me he will." Dana muttered, close to tears..., frustration and impatience evident in her voice.

      "No mom." Nate insisted.  He didn't want his mom with him.  Jeron hung out in some pretty sketchy parts of town with some real shady people.  "No you need to stay here.  Stay here in case he comes home or maybe he went on to school." 

      "What am I suppose to do here?   Just sit here and wait.  Wreck my mind wondering where my son is?" Dana spat out.  She circled the room with her hands on her hips.  Nate had warned her Jeron was getting himself into trouble but she hadn't wanted to believe it.  Well Jeron's actions spoke louder than his words.  Where in the hell could he have been all night? 

      "I bet you're probably thinking I told you so huh?"  Dana bit off angrily. 

"No mom." Nate answered calmly.  "I wish I was wrong.  I really do but that's not important right now.  I have to go find him.  I'll be back."

Nate closed the door behind him and Dana plopped down hard onto the sofa.  "Where are you Jeron?" she muttered to herself, visions of him lying hurt or injured somewhere conjured in her mind.

Scene 32

Everyone gathered at the table for breakfast.  Cassie wasn't very hungry and barely touched her food while Tay, Lizze and Eddie dug in wholeheartedly.

     "Jenn I'm starving and these Belgian waffles look delicious." Eddie said, piling his plate high with waffles and eggs. 

Jenn smiled.  It was gratifying watching everyone enjoy their meal.  All except for Cassie.  "Cassie...,  honey why aren't you eating?"

     Cassie toyed around with her plate, pushing the food around on the plate with her fork.  "I'm sorry mom.  It's good but I'm just not hungry."

     Eddie poured himself a glass of juice and ate hungrily.  He glanced at Cassie's uneaten breakfast.  "Well no need to let good food go to waste.  Pass me your waffles."

      Cassie passed her plate but Eddie sat rigid and still, staring at her hand.  His fork paused in midair, halfway to his lips. 

"Uh, is there something you forgot to tell me, show me?" Eddie asked, setting the plate aside but holding on to Cassie's hand.  "Is that what I think it is?"  he asked forcefully.

     Cassie shrugged her shoulders and tried to pull her hand away but Eddie held with a firm grip.  "Yes dad.  It's to replace the ring that was stolen." she explained.

     Eddie turned her hand from side to side examining it.  "That's some replacement." he pointed out harshly.   A very expensive looking replacement he thought to himself.  "Is it real?"

Cassie jerked her hand away in outrage.  "Dad!" Cassie muttered in outrage that he would even suggest her ring was fake.

     "Daughter!" Eddie replied, mocking Cassie.

"Of course it's real dad.  Charles gave it to me as a surprise." 

       "Yeah right.  Cassie's wearing a bubble gum machine ring." Tay laughed.  "Charles probably found it in a cracker jack box." he added.

"Honey, you're being unreasonable.   Charles and Cassie been engaged for a while now and this ring is simply a symbol of their love.  You're not being fair." Jenn interrupted.

   "Fair?" Eddie repeated, his eyebrows arched high with annoyance.   "You knew about this?" Eddie asked, straightening in his chair. 

     Jenn smiled proudly.  "Yes.   I think it's wonderful and I think Cassie should wear it with pride."

"I'll tell you what won't be fair." Eddie said, emphasizing the word fair.    "What I'm going to do to Charles if i catch him dragging  Cassie into another court house.  That's a serious looking ring." he said, pointing at Cassie's finger.     "I hope Charles understands that ring is about as real as this engagement between you and him is going to get until you finish college."

    "Dad's gonna kill Charles and turn you into a widow if you try to get married again." Tay teased mercilessly.

"Tay you are such a dork." Lizzie muttered under her breath.

     "Tay be quiet and eat your breakfast." Jenn reprimanded.

Cassie smoothed her hair behind her ear.  "Dad it's just a ring.  You're over reacting."

      "Just so long as you and Charles understand the rules." Eddie grunted.  He took his plate, pushed away from the table and kissed Jenn goodbye.  "Well, I'm off to work.  Have a good day."    He headed for the door but turned back unexpectedly.  "Oh Jenn, by the way, the Annual Policeman's Association Dinner is next Friday.  I know it's last minute but I've been so busy it slipped my mind.

      Cassie and Lizzie sat quietly and staring straight ahead.  Tay squirmed in his chair with a smirk on his face.  They all knew what their father was up to.  Hopefully their mom wouldn't ask to many questions.

     Jenn sat with an open mouth expression.  "Friday?" Jenn echoed unbelievably.  Not only was Friday short notice but it was also her birthday.  

Eddie winced but nodded.  The Annual Policeman's Annual Association dinner wasn't scheduled for another two months but this was the only way he could get Jenn to put on something sexy and not question him when he tried to get her out of the house for her party.          

     Jenn slumped down in her chair.  "Eddie I can't believe you're just telling me this.  There's no way I can be ready for a party with such short notice.  I have to get a dress..., my hair needs to bed done and I'll have to schedule a manicure.  Honey why don't you just go alone?  To be honest I was thinking we could maybe have a nice quiet dinner this Friday..., just the two of us." she recommended.  She wanted a nice quiet birthday dinner and was surprised Eddie hadn't mentioned anything about it.  Neither had the kids and that wasn't like them.  Great she thought to herself.  It seemed her husband had forgotten her birthday.

     Eddie read Jenn like a book.  She sat pouting in her chair thinking he hadn't remembered her birthday and he played along with her. He couldn't wait to see the look on her face on Friday.  She was in for a surprise.  "Go alone and miss an opportunity to show off my beautiful wife?" Eddie questioned, shaking his head.   "Not a chance and what's so special about Friday?  We can go to dinner any old time."   

     Jenn relented.  "Fine.  We'll just have dinner another time."  

"I got to get going." Eddie said, rushing out.

     "Me to."  Cassie said hurriedly, quickly gathering her things.  She had to get to school.  "Bye mom." she said, leaving for school.

Lizzie grabbed her back pack and gathered her dishes but Jenn stopped her.

     "I'll clear the table honey.  You and Tay go on to school." Jenn spoke softly.   

 "Thanks mom." Lizzie and Tay  replied at once. Bye."

Jenn watched them leave and stared around the house amusingly.  Wow...the whole day to herself with no kids, no Eddie and some well earned peace and quiet.  What would she ever do with herself?  She sighed, folded her arms and sat back in her chair.  "Policeman's dinner." she said out loud to herself, frowning.   "Just how a woman wants to spend her thirty sixth birthday." she moaned sarcastically.

Scene 33   

 Cassie pulled in next to Charles in the school parking lot where he sat waiting for her.  He quickly got out of his car, opened her car door and greeted her with a kiss.

      "Hi." Cassie greeted, her face somber and lifeless.

"Good morning beautiful." Charles responded, his face bright and cheerful, smiling.   His smiled quickly faded with Cassie's saddened state.  The loving, bright smile she usually greeted him with was non existent.  In it's place was a face full of gloom and discouragement.  He knew no matter what he said she would worry and be depressed until they got the test results.   He rested his back against her car and pulled her against him, wrapping his arms around her waist.  "Cassie, baby come on.  We talked about this last night.  You can't walk around moping and depressed all day.  There's nothing we can do until we get the results.  Remember how worried you were the last time and it turned out you weren't pregnant, and everything was fine?"

     Cassie didn't speak.  She simply nodded her head.

"Worrying ourselves to death won't change the results." he said calmly, taking her chin in his hand, forcing her to look at him when she resisted.  "Hey, look at me.  I told you, regardless of what happens, where going to be together and I'm going to take care of you.  I promise."

     Cassie stared into his big grey eyes.  Her face and voice was filled with despair.  "I can't help it Charles.  I keep thinking of what my parents will say if I'm pregnant.   I tried to tell mom this morning but I lost my nerve."

      "You were going to tell your mom?!" Charles asked abruptly.

"Yes Charles!" Cassie said sharply.   "I wanted to but I was so scared I couldn't.  Charles I don't understand how you can be so calm.  I can't eat.  I can't sleep.  It's all I can think about."

      Charles let go of her chin and expelled a ragged breath.  "Cassie I'm sorry. I know.  I know how you feel.  Why you need someone besides me to talk with.  David make things a lot clearer for me.  Made me understand that....___"

      Cassie's eyes stretched.   "You told David?!"  she gasped, interrupting him, surprised that he had shared their information with David.

Charles cupped her cheek in his palm.  "Of course I did.  He's my best friend and he's also your friend." he stressed.

      "I'm sorry.  You're right." Cassie apologized.  She hadn't intended to jump down his throat.  Of course he needed someone to talk to, confide in and no better more trust worthy person than David.   "Claire was the first person I told.  I'm sorry I didn't come to you first Charles.  I was just so afraid you'd be angry with me."

      "It's okay I'm not angry." Charles soothed.   "You said so yourself, I'm a part of this.  You can't get pregnant all by yourself.   He stroked Cassie's cheek with the back of his finger and turned her to face him once again, framing her face in his hands.  "Cassie we're both responsible but in some ways I can't help but feel I should have protected you.   You're my baby and I should have protected you." he whispered roughly.

      "Charles no.   It was my idea to stop using protection. I feel like it's my fault and I've got you all tied up in a big mess." Cassie stated.

      Charles rested his fore head against hers.  "Let's just try not to blame ourselves okay.  What's done is done and it was your idea but I could have said no.  And if you are pregnant we'll tell your parents together.   I'm not going to let you face them alone." he assured.

     "You promise?" Cassie asked hoarsely.

"Of course I will.  We're in this together." Charles assured, smiling.  "You're dad will probably kill me but we'll do it together. " he said amusingly, tapping her chin playfully with his finger when she smiled at his joke.  "There's my smile."he commented.

     Cassie face beamed with a huge smile.  Charles made everything sound so easy.  "I love you so much Charles."

"I love you to." Charles responded, leaning in to kiss Cassie on the lips.  

Scene 34

Nate drove around the seedy parts of town in Jeron's hang out spots.  A few of the local shop owners and people who lived in the area reported seeing Jeron on the corner of sixth street arguing with some guy in the late hours of the night.  The information he received put his senses on alert.  He raced in his car to the location but there was no sign of Jeron.   Jeron had his problems but it wasn't like him to not check in or show up after so many hours.   Something registered in the depths of Nate's mind.  Every instinct told him Jeron was hurt and couldn't come home.  Maybe he wasn't able to call or check in.  He had to find his brother, for his sake and his mom's peace of mind.

     Nate parked on the street side and walked the entire area until he came to a back alley just off of the corner of sixth street.  He knew from experience a lot of homeless individuals hung out in this alley, looking for food, begging for money and shelter.  The alley was also notorious for shady night time drug deals.  He walked from one end of the alley to the other and there was no sign of Jeron.  On his way back to his car he stopped and slowly turned around, quickened his pace and headed back in the direction from which he had came.   He had walked right pass a huge dumpster in the alley.   His mind quickly told him to check the dumpster but his legs were slow to react.  Sheer force of will propelled him forward.  It took everything he had but he forced himself to walk back to that dumpster.  He wasn't sure what he'd find and his stomach churned with thoughts of finding his little brother badly beaten, injured or even worst, dead in this back alley dumpster but he knew from experience during his time as a cop,  horrible things happened to people.  He took a deep breath, fortified his nerves and quickly flipped open the large dumpster lid.   The foul, gut wrenching garbage odor took his breath away but he was relieved to stare down into garbage.  Thank goodness there was nothing here but piles of garbage. 

     Nate turned for his car but halted in his tracks at a strange sound.   The sound of a muffled moan caught his attention but he couldn't pin point where the sound was coming from but he knew it was close.  "Hello?!"  he called out. 

     "Help..., help me...please." The voice groaned incoherently again. 

Nate stiffened.  He recognized that voice, the tone.  Jeron was here, somewhere. "Jeron?!" he called out, glancing around frantically, trying to trace the direction of the voice.  "Jeron?!" He yelled once more.  "Where are you bro?!"

     Jeron was weak but recognized his brother's voice.  Another second in this dirty alley was a second to long.  He yelled as loud as he could and banged on the dumpster wall with the palm of his hand.   "Nate, I'm here!   Please help me!" He groaned out in pain.

     Nate followed the sound of the voice and his heart nearly stopped when he found Jeron behind the dumpster. 
He lay there on the ground, lifeless and limp.  Someone had done a real number on him.  He was badly beaten and bruised.  His face so swollen and bruised Nate barely recognized him.   Nate went down on his knees beside him.  "Jeron, I'm here bro." he said frantically, pulling his cell phone from his pocket to call an ambulance, checking Jeron for injuries at the same time.   Every place he touched seemed to make Jeron cry out in pain.  Nate knew better than to move him because he didn't know the extent of his injuries. 

     Nate spoke forcefully to the 911 operator.   "I need an ambulance on the corner of sixth street!  210 sixth street!" he said  loudly.  "My brother's  been beaten and he's hurt real bad." Nate explained to the operator.   "I'm Nathaniel, his brother!    Look, I don't know!  I just found him here like this." Nate spoke wildly, becoming agitated with the operator's many questions surrounding his emergency call.    "He's all busted up.  Please  tell them to hurry." he growled anxiously, ending the call.   

    Nate knelt over Jeron and tried to talk to him, get him to respond but all he managed to get was an occasional flutter of Jeron's eyelids and muffled words.  He tapped him lightly on the cheek, trying to get some sense out of him.  "Jeron talk to me.  Come on man talk to me.  I need you to stay with me.  The ambulance is on it's way." he pleaded.  "Who did this to you?  Huh?   Just tell me who did this to you.  What happened last night?" he questioned to no avail.  Jeron curled up into a fetal position moaning with pain, sluggish and unresponsive.   Nate gripped his hand, squeezing it.  "It's okay Jeron.  I'm going to get you to the hospital.  You're going to be okay." he promised, glancing at his watch, mentally counting the minutes for the ambulance to arrive.  Someone had dumped his little brother behind this dumpster to hurt and suffer in pain.   He wouldn't rest until he figured out who was involved, who had hurt his brother.  He wouldn't rest at all.

Scene 35

Charles and Cassie ran into Sage in the hallway.  She was back in school and looked seemingly happy considering everything she'd went through on prom night.   Cassie was happy to her up and about, on her feet again.

     "Sage, hi, your back." Cassie smiled cheerfully. 

"Glad your okay Sage." Charles added.

     "Yeah.  I couldn't spend one more day in bed." Sage said.  "Plus my mom was driving me absolutely crazy, fussing over me." Sage whined, reaching out, touching Cassie on the arm.  "I'm sorry I ruined you guys prom night." She apologized.    "Thanks for helping me."   She shrugged her shoulders.  "I guess I owe you one Cassie." 

     "You don't owe me anything but you really scared me." Cassie answered. 

Sage's face looked bleak.  "Yeah sorry.  I've never felt so scared and helpless in my life.  That was honestly the worst night of my life.  If there's the slightest chance I could go through that again, I'm seriously never having kids."

     Cassie swallowed the hard lump in her throat and stared up at Charles.  In the beginning Sage had talked of wanting her baby, finally having someone to love and care for but she now made it sound like the worst possible luck a girl could have.  She spoke as if having a baby, having a child was grim and full of doom.  She made it all sound so very ominous.  

     Charles took Cassie's hand in his and squeezed it.  He read her thoughts, knew what she was thinking.  It was written all over her face. 

     "Sage you don't mean that.  You're young.  You'll probably change your mind later on." Cassie suggested.  "Remember how excited you were about having your baby?  It could happen again."

     Sage scoffed at the idea.  "Are you kidding?   Look Cassie I know what I said but after everything that's happened, I realize that I wasn't ready for a baby.  I mean, let's face it, I'm much to selfish."

     "Sage!" Cassie blurted out.  "How can you say that?"

"What?!" Sage asked.  "Hey..., I'm selfish.  I can admit it.  I'm nothing if not honest.  Yeah, in the beginning, I was in fairy tale la la land.  My head was filled with crazy, mixed up visions of  make believe little mommies and baby carriages."

     "Sage that's an awful thing to say."  Cassie said sadly.  Standing here listening to Sage was making her feel extremely low and depressed.  All this talk about mistakes and fairy tale visions really put a damper on her mood.  She was upset enough as it was and Sage only made things ten times worst. 

     Charles rubbed the back of his neck wearily.  Sage was aggravating him and he didn't want her upsetting Cassie.  If she was trying to put Cassie in a foul mood she was doing a terrific job. He had heard enough.   He took Cassie gently by the arm but she stood rigid, not budging.  "We better get to class." he suggested, trying to change the subject.

     "Well at least one good thing came from all of this.  You and Thad are back together." Cassie said, trying to find the silver lining in the cloud.

     Sage grunted with distaste.  "Yeah right.   You mean Thad my loser ex-boyfriend who I haven't seen or heard from since my first night in the hospital?" Sage asked sarcastically.   "The same Thad who refuses to return my phone calls and changes his cell phone number so I can't reach him?" she continued angrily, shaking her head.   "I was in the hospital and he felt sorry for me but then he showed his true colors.  He's just like every other guy out there.  As soon as they hear the word baby or pregnancy, everything changes.  Oh they'll play the loving, dotting boyfriend for a while but trust me it get's old and then they'll dump you.  A baby doesn't help a relationship.  It makes it worst." Sage ranted vengefully, dragging Thad's name through the mud.  

     Cassie glared at Charles, a million questions running through her head.  Her heart sank further and further with Sage's every word.  Were she and Charles fooling themselves into thinking they could possibly handle a baby?  Were they being practical and realistic?  Would Charles play the loving boyfriend but leave when things got hard? She knew he loved her but would his love be strong enough?  Would he feel sorry for her and stay with her out of pity?   If she was pregnant, in the end, would she end up raising her child alone?

     Cassie looked at Charles with her big saddened brown eyes and he melted.  He pulled her close and kissed her on the temple, silently comforting and reassuring her he would never leave her.  She was letting Sage's opinion cloud her mind. He'd talk to her in private later.  Sage didn't know about their situation and he wanted to keep it that way.    He breathed out harshly.  Leave it to Sage to be the bearer of bad, dreadful news.

  "Let me tell you something Cassie," Sage continued,  "what I'm saying might sound mean and nasty but I didn't want to lose my baby.  I had no control over it but now that it's over, it's become very clear to me that I was making a huge mistake.  What in the world would I have done with a baby?  A baby with a loser for a dad?  I'm a teenager about to start college.  My life is just starting.  I got involved with the wrong person, made the worst mistake of my life,  at the worst possible time but somehow I got a second chance.   I feel sorry for the girls who don't.

     Charles couldn't take anymore of Sage's harsh theories on babies and men.  She had already said quite enough..., more than enough.   Judging and grouping all men in a category with Thad was wrong and unfair.  He'd never walk away from Cassie, from their child.  He was no fool.  He knew it wouldn't be easy but he and Cassie loved each other and  that had to count for something.    "Cassie come on." he said, urging her forward with his hand on the small of her back, gently nudging her when she resisted.  "I'll walk you to class."  He had to get her away from there before Sage poisoned her mind completely.   "See you later Sage." he said abruptly.

Scene 36

 The doctor came out into the waiting room area where Nate, Dana and mama Taylor all but cornered him to find out some kind of news regarding Jeron.

     "Doctor..., how is he?  He's going to be okay right?" Nate asked restlessly.  "I mean ..., it probably looks a lot worst than it is right?" Nate asked, hoping and praying he was right.  It felt like they had been sitting out in the waiting room for hours.  He'd go crazy if he didn't find out something soon.     He'd called his mom and Eddie the minute the ambulance had arrived.  Dana had been hysterical and it had been all he could do to calm her down.   Eddie had volunteered to rush right over to the hospital but Nate knew his dad was working out on patrol.  He'd refused, promising to call him the minute he found out anything. 

    "I want to see him." Dana said quickly.  She'd feel better if she could at least see him.

"I just pray he's alright.  He has to be." Mama Taylor said in a tender tone.  She was worried sick about her grandson. 

     The doctor held up his hands and spoke calmly in an effort to calm them down.   "He's going to be alright.  He's banged up pretty bad.   The worst of it being two broken ribs and a slight concussion." he explained.

     "Oh my goodness!" Mama Taylor cried out, covering her mouth with her hands.  "He could have been killed!" she choked out, on the verge of tears.

     "What?!" Dana cried out, stunned by what she'd heard.  She turned to Nate.  "Nate who would do something like this?  What kind of person would do this?!"  This was more than a simple street scuffle.  Broken ribs...., a concussion.  This was serious.

     "It's alright mom.  I promise you I'm going to find out who did this." Nate pledged.

The doctor cupped Dana's shoulder in his hand, reassuring her as best he could.  "Mrs. Taylor you and your son can relax.  I won't lie to you.  Jeron's a little worst for wear, bruised and painful but with some rest he should recuperate fully and be just fine.   Now unfortunately we can't get a word out of him about he sustained such injuries."

     "I need to see my son.  Right now."  Dana said impatiently.  Maybe she or Nate could talk some sense into him and get him to admit what happened, tell them who hurt him so badly.   She was upset, angry and full of guilt.  Upset with herself for not listening to Nate's warning about Jeron heading for trouble, hanging with the wrong crowd and angry at the person who had beat and left her son to suffer so horribly.    Guilt ate away at her.  She felt guilty for not taking a stronger hold on Jeron and his lifestyle and activities.  When Nate had called her to tell her Jeron was in the hospital she had nearly fainted.    She hadn't known what to expect upon arriving at the hospital but was relieved to learn he was going to be okay.        

       The doctor agreed, nodding his head.  "You all can see him but only for a few minutes.  We need to get him back downstairs for some additional chest x-rays.

     "Will you be keeping him over night?" Mama Taylor asked.  She'd feel better if Jeron was at home, in his own bed.  

"If the next set of x-rays look okay he'll probably be home in time for dinner." The doctor answered.

     Nate shook hands with the doctor.  "Thanks doctor.  I'm relieved.  I didn't know how badly he was hurt."

"Why don't you go on in and see your brother.  I'm sure he'll be happy to see a familiar face." The doctor smiled, leaving Nate and Dana  alone to visit Jeron.

Scene 37

Jenn spent the better part of her morning cleaning and organizing downstairs.  Everything was spotless and in it's place.  It was amazing what a woman could get done with no husband or children under foot.  "Now if only the kids will let it stay this way." She chuckled to herself.    She wiped her brow, expelled a tired breath and glanced up at the ceiling.  "One floor down..., one more to go." She said out loud, climbing the stairs with cleaning supplies in hand.

      She cleaned the bathrooms, vacuumed and stripped the kids bed linens.  What she found under Cassie's bed covers left her dumbfounded and speechless.   She dumped the pile of bed linen in her arms to the floor and picked up the pregnancy test, staring at it in disbelief, turning the box over and over in her hands as if she were seeing things, as if her eyes were playing tricks on her.  "Oh Cassie." Jenn sighed disappointingly, slowly sinking down onto the bed, sitting there wondering what kind of trouble Cassie and Charles had gotten themselves into to.  Well, at least this explained Cassie's troublesome mood lately.  She had known something was wrong but never imagined it would be a possible pregnancy.  Not this, not again.   They had been through this once before and she had truly believed Cassie had learned from her mistake but if this pregnancy test was any indication, evidently she hadn't learned a thing.  She couldn't believe Cassie had gotten herself into this predicament again.

     Jenn gathered the bed linens from the floor and left the room, taking the pregnancy kit along with her.  She and Cassie would have a mother/daughter discussion later this evening.  Cassie had some serious explaining to do.  

Scene 38

Cassie and Claire stood in the cafeteria lunch line, grabbing a quick bite to eat. 

     "I'm glad you told Charles.  I told you he'd understand." Claire commented, holding up the line, trying to decide which dessert she wanted.

      "Yes but a baby will change everything for Charles and I." Cassie replied.   "What if we're not ready?"

"Ready or not, Charles will make a great father and you'll be a terrific mommy." Claire smiled, offering words of encouragement.  "Stop worrying Cassie.  No sense beating yourself up until you take the test and get the res___...." She began but was rudely interrupted when Sage busted in between her and Cassie, physically pushing and muscling her way through to the beginning of the lunch line. 

      "Sage!" Cassie called out, annoyed with Sage's rudeness.  She quickly grabbed hold of her lunch tray as Sage carelessly shoved it aside, making room for her own tray.

      "What the hell?!  You bitch!" Claire rang out, gathering her footing as Sage pushed her out of the way. 

"Sage what are you doing and how long have you been standing there? Cassie burst out, nervous that Sage had overheard her conversation about the pregnancy.

      Sage filled her tray with food.  "Sorry but princess here is holding up the line." Sage complained, sifting through the remaining desserts.   "And she took the last piece of carrot cake." she complained sourly, glaring at Claire's tray.

     Claire's eyes shot daggers.  She was furious with Sage.  "Okay you're better and out of the hospital now.  Is it okay for me to hate you again?" Claire insulted.  Just when she thought Sage couldn't possibly get any worst, she came back meaner and nastier. 

     Sage was immune to Claire's insult.    She cocked her head to the side.  "Wow..., hate..., such a strong word." She taunted.  "Thanks for the dessert." She said, quickly grabbing Claire's carrot cake from her tray, scurrying away.

     "I'm going to kill her!" Claire shouted, slamming her plate down, going after Sage.  

Cassie grabbed Claire's arm, stopping her.  "Claire just forget about it."

     Claire rolled her eyes.  "Now I remember why I hate her so much."

"Do you think she overheard anything?  I don't want the whole school finding out about this." Cassie fretted, her nerves frayed.

      Claire shrugged her shoulders.  "I don't know Cassie but if she did, don't worry you'll know soon enough." Claire explained.  Sage had a big mouth and she definitely couldn't keep a secret.

Scene 39

Jenn polished the hallway table and mirror to a brilliant streak free shine. Glancing her reflection in the mirror, she paused, really studying herself, angling her face from side to side, gently tracing the delicate laugh lines and creases that had appeared over the years.     She dropped the cleaning cloth on the table and turned sideways, examining her figure, her side profile, holding her stomach in.   She exhaled slowly.    Who was she kidding?  She kept in shape and kept herself up but she wasn't eighteen anymore.   The years and having kids had changed her.  She frowned at her haggard reflection in the mirror.  Here she stood looking a mess with her hair all tied up, tired and perspiring from cleaning all day.   Whereas Nadine, was a vibrant, single, young, gorgeous woman in her twenties and Eddie seemed to be smitten with her.  What man in his right mind wouldn't be?  Nadine was a beautiful woman.  How could she compete with that? 

     A thought registered in Jenn's mind.  Maybe she couldn't turn back time, recapture her youth but she was still a beautiful woman, able to hold her own.  She whipped off her hair net and toyed with her hair.  Maybe it was time for a change, a small makeover of sorts.  Nothing drastic but just something to put a little spark and temptation back into her marriage, catch Eddie's eye again. She rushed off, grabbing her car keys and purse.  Today was the perfect day for a trip to the hair and makeup salon. 

Scene 40          Later In The Evening:

Cassie stood cleaning tables at the Revolution.  The shop was busy and crowded but she didn't mind.  It helped take her mind off her troubles. 

     Charles came in quietly, sneaking up from behind, wrapping his arms around her waist, squeezing her.  

Cassie turned in his arms, completely surprised.  "Charles hi." she called out, smiling from ear to ear.  "What are you doing here?  I thought you had to work." 

    Charles planted a quick kiss on her lips.  "I did but my mom's here so I took the evening off.  We're going to have a quick dinner at the Mexican restaurant around the corner.  Plus I wanted to check on you." he admitted, his voice full of concern.  "I know it's your first day back at work since the robbery.  Are you going to be okay?" he asked, glancing around the coffee shop for any signs of trouble.

     Cassie smiled at Charles's thoughtfulness.  "I'm fine Charles.  Besides, I need to keep busy.  When did your mom get in?  I didn't know she was in town.  How long can she stay?"  

     "She's only here for a few hours.  It was a last minute thing.  She's flying back out this evening." Charles informed.  "I wish you could come with us." he said, massaging Cassie's waist.   

"It's okay." Cassie replied.  "She'll be here for graduation right?"

     Charles confirmed.  "Yeah she wouldn't miss it.  She's planning some huge surprise party.  I'm not suppose to know about it." he laughed, shaking his head.   His mom couldn't hide anything and she was the worst at surprises.

     Cassie laughed out loud.  She loved Mrs. Antoni.  She was so cool.

"You want me to come back later, make sure you close up and get home okay?" Charles offered. 

     Cassie shook her head roughly, refusing.  It wasn't necessary.  "Charles I'll be fine."   She pointed at Sage talking with a customer.  "Sage will be here and the manager's helping us close tonight."

     "Are you sure?" Charles persisted.

Cassie nodded.  "Charles I'm positive." she insisted.

     Just then a young couple burst through the door with a crying toddler and an infant baby.    Cassie recognized the young lady immediately.  It was Chrissy.  She and Charles had seen Chrissy, her mom and little boy Brett during their visit with Sage at the obstetrician's office a month earlier.  Chrissy had been expecting a second child at the time but had since given birth.  

     Chrissy walked over and immediately greeted Cassie.  "Hi Cassie.  I didn't realize you worked here." she said, struggling to hold and comfort a crying, irritated baby Brett in her arms as her boyfriend struggled with their new infant baby.  

     "Hi." Cassie responded, turning to Charles.  "Charles you remember Chrissy and Brett?"

"Yeah..., how could I forget?" Charles asked sarcastically.   Oh yes..., he remembered Satan's child.  He hadn't looked at a baby the same ever since his encounter with Brett.  Little innocent looking baby Brett, the child who had tortured him and urinated on him.

     Cassie shot him a disapproving glance.

Chrissy introduced her boyfriend to everyone.  "This is my boyfriend Alan and our new baby boy." she motioned to the crying infant.    "Alan, these are my friends, Charles and Cassie.  We used to go to school together."

     Everyone exchanged greetings.  Charles stared at Brett and took a few cautious steps back.    The shrill noise and decibel of Brett's crying and whining was mind numbing.  How could such a small child cry so loudly?   Better yet, how did Chrissy and her boyfriend manage two screaming babies at once?    Seriously, the babies father looked to be at his wit's end.  He looked miserable and unhappy.        

     "So you had your baby." Cassie stated, glancing at the crying infant, all bundled up in his father's arms.   He was so upset, crying so profusely, his little face had turned a bright red. 

"Yeah." Chrissy confirmed.  "His name is Bradley.  Do you want to hold him?" she asked.

     "No!" Charles and Cassie shouted in unison, abruptly and offensively.    They both took a hesitant step back, putting distance between themselves, Chrissy and her babies as if they were contagious.  They didn't need any reminders of babies and parenthood.   

     Chrissy eyed them warily.  Cassie and her boyfriend Charles sure were defensive.

Cassie realized she and Charles must have sounded and looked like idiots but they were both wound up pretty tight with problems of their own.    Seeing Chrissy and her young family only drove home the enormity of her and Charles's situation.  Just the thought of holding a baby made her nervous.  "He's so young and small.  We wouldn't want to hurt him." she pretended, covering up for her and Charles's rude outburst.

     "Honey I think Brett needs to be changed." Chrissy said to her boyfriend, handing Brett over to his dad.  "Here you take Brett and give Bradley to me." she suggested.

     The babies father was upset and didn't hide his anger and frustration.  "And I guess you want me to do it?" he asked angrily, taking Brett in his arms, struggling with a heavy diaper bag.  "I'm sick of diaper duty." he complained, his voice snapping.  "You should have hired a babysitter Chrissy. 

     "We don't have money for a babysitter." Chrissy countered, yelling.  "You were suppose to look for a part time job remember?"

 We can't even have a quiet evening alone anymore!" The baby's father growled.  "I'm sick of this.  I'm to young to be tied down like this!" he spat out, stomping away to the mens room with Brett in his arms.

     An embarrassed Chrissy rushed after him, quickly excusing herself.  "Nice talking to you guys but I better go help him with Brett."

     Cassie stared after Chrissy and watched as Chrissy and her boyfriend stood outside the restroom door arguing, shouting and insulting each other.  At first appearance they seemed like the perfect loving couple but it was all an act. 

     "I'll see you tomorrow.  I have to go meet mom." Charles said, leaning in for a kiss but Cassie was ignoring him, her eyes transfixed on Chrissy and her boyfriend, completely engrossed.  She made no reply.  Her entire attention was focused on the arguing couple.  Charles followed her gaze and knew what she was thinking.    "Hey " he said, nudging her, "Are listening to me?  You haven't heard a word I've said have you?" he questioned. 

     Cassie's eyes darted nervously from the couple to Charles.  "Charles is that what we have to look forward to?"she muttered apprehensively.

    "No." Charles said firmly.  "Don't talk like that."

Cassie continued.  "Is that what we're going to become?  Are we going to argue, fuss and fight all the time?" she asked, her mind filled with foreboding thoughts of doom. 

      Charles took Cassie by the hand and pulled her aside to a quiet corner.  "Do you love me?" he asked earnestly.

"Of course I do Charles." Cassie said. 

     Charles brought her hand up, placing her palm against his chest, covering her hand with his own.   He knew Cassie was feeling a little insecure about him, their future together.   "Then trust me.  Don't doubt me.  Baby or no baby we're going to start a life together.  You and I..., we're meant to be.  Trust me enough to know I'll do whatever it takes to make things work."

     "I'm sorry.  I do trust you Charles." Cassie apologized but it seemed she was suddenly being bombarded with bad signs everywhere she turned.  Signs showing every possible reason why having a baby at such a young age wouldn't work.   First Sage had clouded her mind with doubts this morning and seeing Chrissy and her boyfriend at each others throats made her feel that she and Charles were facing an impossible plight.

     Charles kissed her.  "Don't worry about what Chrissy, Sage or anyone else says.  We can do this.  I know we can." he said bravely.

     "You're right." Cassie agreed, embarrassed for showing her insecurities.

Charles glanced at the clock on the wall.  "I have to go meet mom but I'll call you later okay?"

     Cassie kissed him on the cheek.  "Okay, bye.  I"m glad your mom's here." 

Sage approached Cassie the minute Charles left the cafe.  She stood with a smirk on her face, grinning.  Cassie was unaware she had overheard her and Claire's little discussion about babies in the cafeteria today.  Well, well, well..., looked like she wasn't the only one who had gotten themselves into a little trouble. 

      Cassie walked behind the counter with Sage hot on her heals, following her every step.  She whirled on her.  "What's so funny Sage and why are you following me?  Don't you have work to do?"

     Sage cupped her arms together and pretended to rock a baby.  "First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes Cassie with the baby carriage." she sung softly.  "But in your case, I think the baby carriage comes second." she teased.

     Cassie's mouth fell open.  As she had suspected, Sage had eavesdropped on her and Claire's conversation.  "You can't tell anyone Sage." she whispered, discreetly.  "Please..., promise me."

     "Don't worry.  Your little secrets safe with me Cassie." Sage promised, reaching out, patting Cassie's flat stomach.  You better enjoy Charles now while you still have him.  Mark my words Cassie, if your pregnant, as soon as you start showing, getting all fat, Charles is going to do the guy thing and leave."

     "You don't know what you're talking about Sage.  Charles isn't like most guys.  He loves me.  Just because things didn't work out with you and Thad doesn't give you the right to criticize Charles."

     Sage scoffed.  "You're being naive.  He's a man.  They always let you down.  Don't say I didn't warn you." she mouthed, walking away.

Cassie caught Sage by the arm.  "Sage wait.  If this gets out I'll tell everyone you miscarried in the hotel bathroom."  Cassie threatened, pulling out all the stops, desperate to keep her personal life private.

     Sages eyes grew large then narrowed with anger.  She had no intention of spreading Cassie's business but Cassie's threat rubbed her the wrong way.  Though, she had to admit, it was funny watching good girl, do-gooder Cassie sweat for a change.  "You really want to tangle with me Cassie?  I don't have anything to hide.  My parents already know and I could care less what those losers at school think.  I said I'd keep your secret and I meant it so don't push me." she choked out.  "I wonder how Officer Sutton would feel about his little girl being pregnant?"

     Cassie stepped closer to Sage, trying to intimidate her.  "You wouldn't dare."

Sage grit her teeth and snarled. "Oh I think we both know I would.  Looks like I'm not the one having trouble keeping my legs closed." she insulted, stepping around Cassie.  "I'm taking my break." she said, storming off. 

 Scene 41

Jenn walked into the house , surprising Tay and Lizzie with her new layered hair cut.   She hadn't had much taken off but had opted for a smart, neat looking layered trim.  It had bounce, body, pizzazz and framed her face nicely.   She hoped Eddie appreciated it as much as the kids.

     "You look real pretty mom." Tay commented, giving her the thumbs up approval.

"She looks hot Tay." Lizzie corrected.  "Your beautiful mom. Wait until dad sees you." 

     Jenn twirled in a slow circle, giving the kids a full view of her new look.  "  I'm surprised your father isn't home yet.  It's getting late.   He promised he'd try to get home on time." she mouthed, tossing her purse aside, disappointed yet again.   She'd spent hours getting all dolled up at the salon, desperately wanting to impress him but had come home to find him late once again.   Hopefully he'd be home soon.  She couldn't wait to see his reaction.

     "Yeah, so much for finishing the attic.  We're never going to complete this project." Tay griped. 

"I'll help you with dinner mom." Lizzie said.

     Jenn shrugged out of her jacket.   "Thanks honey but it's getting late.  Why don't we have take out instead?" she recommended.  "I've got a taste  for Chinese food."   She was in no mood to cook, slave over a hot stove.  She just wanted her husband home for a change.  A nice, quiet, normal evening at home with her husband.  Was that too much to ask?

     "Yes, takeout." Tay repeated enthusiastically, pumping his fist.   "I'll get the menu." he said, shuffling through the kitchen drawer. 

Scene 42

Eddie peeped into the hospital room.  Nate sat talking with Jeron, pleading with him to expose the person responsible for roughing him up but Jeron remained silent.    Eddie knocked on the open door.  "Feel like some company?" he asked, surprising them.

     Nate swiveled in his seat at the sound of Eddie's voice.  "Dad." he smiled, standing to hug his father.  "Glad you stopped by."

Jeron didn't say a word but cracked a small smile.  He'd never admit it but he was glad to see Mr. Sutton.  The guy was an irritating pest at times but he meant well.

     Eddie held his out his hand for Jeron to grasp.  He squeezed Jeron's hand, giving him a firm,  real man's handshake, showing his concern, silently telling him he was there to help him.  "How you feeling?" he asked.

     "I'm okay." Jeron lied, putting up a brave front, trying to hide the pain he was in.  It was about time to call his nurse for more pain medication but he didn't want Mr. Sutton thinking he was weak and soft.  His ribs were killing him.

     "You want to talk about it?" Eddie asked, volunteering to lend an open ear.

"Nothing to talk about." Jeron answered, pretending to stare at the television. 

     "It's no use dad.  I've tried to get him to talk to me all day.   His lips are sealed." Nate said.

"Sealed huh?"  Eddie repeated.  "Is that right?" he questioned, taking a seat in the chair next to Jeron's bedside.  His eyes bore down onto Jeron's with a piercing gaze.  Someone had to talk some sense into Jeron.  "The person who did this to you must be a close friend, somebody you really care about." Eddie theorized.

      Jeron struggled to sit up, wincing from the pain.  His torso was bandaged and binded up tight to protect his ribs.  "Why would I care about the dude who jacked me?!" Jeron responded angrily.

     Eddie noticed Jeron struggling and helped him get comfortable.  He adjusted the position of the automatic hospital bed, inclining Jeron into a sitting position.  "You could have fooled me.  I figured the way you're trying to protect him, being all secretive,  you must know him.  The only person I'd stick my neck out to protect would be a close friend or family member." Eddie goaded.  "Why else would you go through so much trouble to protect him?"  He knew this wasn't the act of any family member or friend but hoped his questioning and prodding would spur Jeron into telling them something, anything.   Nate had called him hours ago, telling him the extent of Jeron's injuries and all about the troubles he and Dana had been having with Jeron lately. 

      "Aint protectin nobody." Jeron grunted, frustrated with Eddie's questions.  "You just as bad Nate, questioning me.  You not my father and neither is he.  Now I'm telling you the same thing I told him.  Ain't got nothing to say.  I got jacked by some strange dude in the alley.  That's it..., period.   Stop trying to make more of it than it is!" he yelled.  

     The nurse came into the room with a wheel chair and Jeron's release papers, breaking up the conversation.  She gave Nate a few papers to sign and prescriptions for pain medications that needed to be filled.

     "Do I get to go home now?" Jeron asked.

"Yes you're being released but remember what the doctor said, no school for a few days.  You need to give your ribs some time to heal." The nurse cautioned.

       Eddie helped Nate get Jeron out of the bed and into the wheel chair. "Think about what I said Jeron.  No sense protecting someone who doesn't deserve protecting."  Jeron was obviously hiding something..., hiding something or afraid to tell the truth.    "Thank goodness Nate found you when he did.  You were injured but it could have been worse." he warned.    "What ever is going on, whatever bad thing or bad person you've gotten yourself mixed up with, you can tell me about it.  I guarantee you I've seen and heard a whole lot worst." he attested.    "Hope you feel better.  Call me if you want to talk." 

     "Appreciate you stopping by dad." Nate thanked Eddie.

"No problem.  I'm a phone call away if you need anything son." Eddie stated.

      "Thanks." Nate said.

Scene 43

Charles met his mom at El Valle, a nice Mexican restaurant not far from the Revolution.  She stood up, hugged him and smothered his face with kisses when she saw him.  Charles was embarrassed but knew she was happy to see him.

     "Honey I missed you so much." she said, fluffing his hair with her fingers, glancing around.  "Where's Cassie?" she asked.

"Sorry mom.  She's at work." Charles answered.  He knew how much his mom loved Cassie and wished she could be there with him.

      Marla pouted sadly and took her seat.  She thought of Cassie as a daughter and had been looking forward to seeing her.  "It's okay.  I know I called on short notice but I was hoping to have dinner with you two and catch up on what's going on in the Heights."

      "There's not much to tell." Charles said, taking the seat opposite his mom.  "We're getting ready for graduation, looking forward to college."

"That's great honey." Marla commended, pausing to talk with the waiter, ordering dinner.  "Charles what are you going to have?"she asked, scanning the menu.

     "I'm not hungry mom but you go ahead.  I'm just happy to see you." Charles admitted.  It was great seeing his mom.  Having her here, seeing her face, made everything he was going through seem easier.  He wasn't sure if he should talk to her, share what was going on in his life but he felt if anyone could understand,  be nonjudgmental, it was his mom.   They had been through their share of arguments and disagreements but at the end of the day she was still his mom and she meant the world to him.

     "Not hungry?!" Marla gasped.  "Great, my own son won't break bread with me.  Are you going to sit there and make me eat all by myself?" 

      Charles threw up his hands.  "Okay fine.  I'll have salad." he told the waiter, handing him the menu.

"So how are things with you and Cassie?" Marla asked suggestively, rubbing her hands together, winking.  She was so happy her son had found a young lady like Cassie.  Her job kept her away and knowing Charles was in a steady relationship with Cassie made her feel better. 

     Charles wanted to lie and say everything was great but he just couldn't.  "We're uh...uh...we're okay." he replied slowly. 

Marla set aside her drink and studied him carefully.  Something wasn't quite right.  Normally, Charles's eyes light up when he talked about Cassie.  "Honey are you okay?"

     Charles put his elbows on the table and rested his chin on his hands.  He struggled with his decision.  Maybe if he told her he'd feel better.   At the very least she'd say something funny or off the wall to make him laugh, ease his mind.

     Marla knew something was bothering Charles.  He sat there, his face grim and stern, his whole body tense.  "Honey is it Cassie?  Is something going on between you and Cassie?" she inquired.    "You two didn't break up did you?" she asked, eyes widening.

     "What?!" Charles spat, frowning.   "Oh mom...no..., no..., it's nothing like that." he clarified.

"Then what?" Marla persisted, refusing to drop the subject.  "Don't you lie to me Charles Antoni.  I'm your mother." she said, pointing her finger at her chest.    "Don't you dare lie to me!" she scolded.

      "Cassie might be pregnant." Charles blurted out, bracing himself, waiting for his mom's reaction.   He braced himself for an angry tongue lashing.

Marla stared at Charles, her eyes bulging out of their sockets, mouth wide open.  Slowly but surely, little by little, the corners of her mouth curled up into a huge smile.  Visions of cute little grand babies danced in her head.

     Charles lifted his head slowly, peering into his mother's face.   He was confused.  She sat there smiling.   "Mom, did you hear what I just said?  Cassie might be pregnant.  You might be a grandmother."

     Marla nodded her head and her smile widened.  "Oh honey."she responded, her voice growing all soft and wobbly, close to tears.  

"Mom, will you please say something? Charles spoke quietly. 

     "I'm not upset if that's what you're asking." Marla said, giddy with excitement.  "I'm happy for you honey.  You know how I feel about babies, my grand babies.  I've made no secret about that."she reminded him, grinning.

     "Mom Cassie and I didn't plan this.  We're not exactly excited about this.  It was a mistake." Charles acknowledged.  "If Cassie's pregnant, we're going to have to figure out our next step, how to move forward.

     Marla left her side of the table and squeezed in next to Charles, forcing him to move over so she could sit next to him.  She wrapped her arm around his shoulders.  "Honey I know you're not happy but it's not the end of the world." she chuckled.

     Charles pulled away from her.  This was a serious situation and his mom was laughing, making jokes.    He was trying to have a serious conversation with her.  "Mom stop making light of this!" he snapped.

     "Hey!, don't you snap at me mister." Marla growled, smacking Charles on the head.    "You're not to old for me to whip your butt." she chastised.  "I'm not making light of your problem honey.  I'm just saying you should deal with matters as they come.  If Cassie's pregnant, it's not going to change how you two feel about each other.  You're not the first young couple to have a baby and you certainly won't be the last.    I know this isn't how you planned your future but I thought Cassie was your future?" she asked, posing a serious question.  "Charles, regardless of this baby being planned or unplanned, I have no doubts you and Cassie will love he or she just the same."

     Charles looked over at her.  "Cassie is my future mom.  She is..., she's my world." he confessed.   "I only hope it can be as easy as your making it sound mom.  I feel like the weight of the world is on my shoulders.  My future, my whole life is hanging on the results of some stupid ten dollar pregnancy test." he growled, frustrated to no end.

     Marla sympathized with him,  rubbing his shoulder.  "Do you love Cassie?"

Charles was taken aback.  His face contorted.   "Of course I love her.  I want to spend the rest of my life with her.  What kind of question is that?  How can you ask me that?

     "Then it can be easy honey." Marla declared.  "And if Cassie's pregnant, I'm going to be there for you, helping you every step of the way.  I didn't have that when I got pregnant with you.  I was young, alone and scared.  Don't think for one minute I'm going to let you deal with this alone.   You're my future and I'm going to do everything I can to ensure you have a better life than I had.  Baby you've got a terrific girl and you two can have a great life together." she said, gripping Charles's arm, resting her head against his lovingly. 

     Charles glanced at her.  "Are you disappointed in me?" 

"Absolutely not." Marla remarked.  "But I will be if you let a pregnancy come between you and Cassie."

      "I love you mom." Charles said.

"I love you to honey." Marla reciprocated, pinching his cheeks.  "Now let's talk about my grand baby." she said excitedly, quickly changing the subject.   She had a list of requirements and counted each one off on her fingers.  "I want a little girl with your eyes and Cassie's nose.  Oh..., and we need to pick out some really cute baby names.   No unisex names because I really hate those.   Honey you and Cassie should think about taking lamaze classes.  I hear it really helps for first time moms.   And we'll need to hire an experienced, qualified nanny.  No irresponsible teenage girls as babysitters.  I've seen hidden videos of crazy babysitters abusing children.  Oh no...that's not going to happen to my grand baby.  Maybe when I'm in town I could baby sit while you two have quiet time.  You two will probably want your own place but I'm always away so you'll have the house to yourselves until we can make other arrangements." Marla rambled on and on, talking non stop, bouncing from one subject to the next.  

     Charles thought she'd never stop talking.  She was talking so fast he couldn't get a word in edgewise.  He stared straight ahead,    letting her hold a one-sided conversation with herself.   He sat quietly, tuning her out but thought about everything she'd said.  Her motherly words of wisdom suddenly clarified everything for him, made him see everything so clearly.  She was right.  This whole time he'd been worrying and stressing about Cassie's pregnancy, worrying about their future when she was his future.  A future he was going to work hard at embracing and securing.  He smiled to himself. It occurred to him if he wasn't smart and careful in his handling of this whole baby matter, he could lose Cassie.   Thanks to his mom, he now knew exactly what he had to do.  He turned and gave her a huge kiss on the cheek.

     "What was that for?" Marla asked, surprised by Charles's public display of affection.  He never kissed her. She could  barely get him to hug her now that he was all grown up.

     "For everything." Charles answered lovingly, grabbing his keys and wallet from the table.

A baffled Marla had no idea what she'd done to deserve such praise.  She stared at Charles gathering his things, preparing to leave.  "Charles we haven't even had dinner yet?  Where are you going?" she asked, sliding out of the booth for him to pass through.

     "Sorry mom I have to go." Charles said impatiently.  "There's something I have to do." he said, stepping out of the booth, hurrying away.  "We'll see each other in a couple weeks for graduation." he called out, looking back at her.

     Marla stood staring after him, frowning.  That son of hers could be so annoying at times.  

Scene 44

 Here Are Some Additional/New Pictures of  David And Claire

Scene 44

David stood back as he opened the front door, smiling at Claire.  "Hey, I didn't think you were coming." he said, motioning for her to come inside.  She looked so pretty in a short little strapless sundress, the long graceful column of her neck left exposed.  He knew the necklace would look beautiful resting against her smooth bare skin.  

     Claire stepped inside, glancing around the house as if it were her first time seeing it.  The house was amazing, beautiful.  She'd never get tired of admiring it.  "I know I'm late.    Mom and I had a late dinner.  Plus I had to beg dad to borrow the car.  He doesn't like me being out on a school night."

      David caught Claire's hand and led her up the stairs to the bonus room, practically dragging her along, excited to finally surprise her with the necklace.    "Don't worry about it. You're here now." he said, tugging her along, laughing as they climbed the steps together.

     Claire struggled to keep up.   She was nervous about being alone with him upstairs but followed him anyway.  David led her into the bonus room and closed the double doors behind them.  He stood at the door, leaning against it with his hands linked behind his back watching her.  He'd went through a lot of trouble getting her here but was now admittedly a little nervous. What if she thought he was moving to fast, rushing their relationship? What if she didn't like the necklace, hate it?  She wasn't an in between kind of girl.  She either liked something or hated it and she'd tell you exactly which.   She was very opinionated, strong minded but he loved her stubborn independence.     

   "So... ?" Claire prompted, eyeing David strangely.  "What's so important?" she asked.  He'd practically begged her to come over.  She was anxious to learn what this visit was about.

     David dodged the question.  "Uh...you want something to drink princess?" he asked, walking over to the kitchen mini bar, pouring himself a glass of juice, stalling for time. 

Claire dropped her purse on the couch.  "No, I'm fine."

     "You sure?" David asked once more, taking a swallow of his drink, intentionally delaying, dragging his feet.  "We've got cokes, juice, bottled water, pepsi.  Or if you're hungry I have chips, pretzels, popc__..."

     Claire stopped him.  She walked up to him, took his drink out of his hands and set it on the counter.  He was nervous about whatever he wanted to say or tell her.  She was sure of it.   "David I'm sure you didn't call me over here to feed me.  I just had a huge dinner so I'm not thirsty or hungry but I do want you to tell me why I'm here." she demanded.  "What's going on?  It must be important because you're acting strangely." 

     David cast a huge lopsided smile at Claire.  He couldn't get anything pass her.  She knew him too well, knew he was stalling, hiding something.  He captured her hands in his, holding her steady in front of him.  "Alright princess you got me.  I'm busted." he smiled, his tone suddenly turning very serious.  "Claire look, you know how I feel about you and you know I love you.  I don't want you to think I'm rushing you into anything but I just want you to know you're honestly the best thing that's happened to me in a very long time." he professed, baring his emotions, his feelings.

     Claire licked her lips.  "Wow...,  David." she sighed.  He was being so incredibly sweet and sincere.  She didn't know what to say.  Here he was confessing his love for her, baring his soul and telling her his most honest, deepest feelings and she was hiding a very important piece of information from him.  She still hadn't found the nerve to tell him she was leaving, going back to North Carolina.  She felt so guilty living a lie.  A lie that she couldn't let go on any further.  She had to tell him, no matter how much it hurt.  "David," she paused, hesitating, "I need to tell you something." she said quietly.

      "Wait.  Just let me finish." David continued, reaching into his pocket, pulling out a small box, handing it to Claire.  "This is for you.  If you don't like it I'll take it back and get you something else."

      Claire stared at the tiny box in awe, slowly shaking her head in refusal.  She wasn't exactly sure what lay hidden inside but suspected some kind of surprise, some kind of gift, jewelry.  Whatever it may be, she knew opening that box, accepting David's gift was wrong.  She didn't deserve it.  She couldn't accept a gift from him knowing she was lying, keeping something from him. It just wasn't right.  "David we need to talk." she repeated.

     David ignored her.  "Just open it." he said impatiently, smiling.  Whatever she had to say could wait.  For now, he wanted to see the happiness on her face when she opened her surprise. 

     "I can't." Claire said, slowly closing her eyes, blocking out David's handsome face, then opening them.  She was wrong, so wrong for what she had done, how she had lied to him. 

      David's dark eyebrows lifted with amusement.   "Yeah you can.  You're being silly." he laughed, taking the box from her hand, opening it himself, dangling the necklace from his fingers before her eyes.

     "David no." Claire gasped when she saw the necklace.  It was a beautiful necklace.  Her whole face tightened with shame and guilt. "I really wish you hadn't done this." she said softly, speaking more to herself than him.  Why did he have to be so sweet and kind and why did she have to be the one to break his heart?  If only she had told him weeks ago like she had planned. 

         David laughed at the surprise in her eyes.  "Turn around." he said, stepping behind her, placing the necklace around her neck, securing the clasp.   "There..., perfect." he said, coming round to study her face, positioning the necklace so it nestled in the center of her chest.  "I hope you like it.  I had it engraved with our initials."

       Claire squeezed the pendant in her hand, holding it tightly against her chest with a look of sad despair.  "David I love it.  It's really beautiful and I'm sure you put a lot of thought into picking it out but I can't accept it."

       "You're keeping it.  You can't give it back." David teased.  "I don't think I'd look very manly wearing a heart necklace."

Claire pinned David with her eyes.  "No..., David you're not listening.  I'm serious.  Maybe you should hear me out before you decide if you want me to have this."

       David ignored Claire's pleas.  His eyes twinkled with happiness.  "What are you talking about?  Of course I want you to have it. I gave it to you didn't I?  Look how pretty it looks on you.  Let me get some pictures."he said, grabbing his digital camera from the coffee table, pressing his face against hers, holding her really close for a close up shot of them together. 

     Claire held her hand up, shielding her face.  "David, no.  Stop.  No pictures.  I have to talk to you."  She begged but David wasn't hearing her.   

      He stepped back, focusing Claire in the camera's view finder, steadily snapping pictures.  "Come on.  I know you're not camera shy."   

     "David will you please stop it.  I really need to talk to you." Claire pleaded, becoming angry.

David looked up from the camera.  "Just a few more.  I promise."

     Determined to make David listen to her, Claire reached out, jerked the camera from his grasp and slammed it down on the counter.  "Listen to me!   I don't give a damn about these pictures!" she shouted, her voice clear, carrying and echoing across the room.  She ran both hands through her hair.  Her frustration with herself plain in her body language.   

     David held his hands up, motioning and signaling for Claire to calm down.  "Whoa....okay, calm down." he comforted. 

Claire was so upset.  She stood with her hands knotted at her side, her lips trembling.  "I need to say something.  Something I should have said weeks ago."

     David hadn't seen Claire so upset in a long time.  He studied the expression on her face, trying to read what was going on in that head of hers.  Something awful was about to happen.   He could sense it, feel it.    "Okay..., look, I'm sorry if I did something to upset you."

     Claire pursed her lips.  "I...I....uh" she stammered, trying to force the words pass her lips.  There was no easy way to tell the guy you loved you were moving away, leaving him.

     "You what?" David prodded, patiently waiting. 

Claire's head dropped low.  "This is harder than I thought it would be."

     David put his hands into his pockets.  His shoulders lifted then fell.  "It can't be that hard.  Just say it." he smiled.    "Claire it's okay if you don't like the necklace.  Don't beat yourself up about it."   He wasn't sure what was bothering her but she hadn't gotten upset until he gave her the necklace.   Instead of putting a smile on her face he had made her unhappy.

     "This doesn't have anything to do with the necklace David.  This is about us." Claire spoke ever so softly.

"Then what?   What is it?" David questioned.   "Are you upgrading, dumping me..., breaking up with me?" he smiled faintly, taping Claire playfully on her butt, humoring her, trying to cheer her up.   Though, he didn't find it very humorous when Claire didn't respond, didn't crack a smile.  He looked down into her somber face.  He frowned a little.  "Hey that was joke.  You were suppose to laugh."he remarked in a deep voice.

      Claire lifted her head, stared into David's slanted eyes.  She drew in a long unsteady breath.

David saw her troubled face an his features grew serious.  "Come on princess what's wrong?  And don't tell me it's nothing.  I'm not crazy.  You haven't been yourself for weeks now.  What's got you so unhappy?"

      "David I'm trying to tell you that I'm leaving." Claire confessed softly, her voice a barely heard whisper.

Claire's voice was light but David heard every word.  His  facial expression was perplexed.  "Leaving?  What do you mean?"

     "I'm leaving with my mom." Claire clarified.

David completely misunderstood. He imagined a simple, quick little visit, a vacation of sorts.   "Okay so you're gonna visit your mom for a few days." he said calmly, wondering why Claire was turning something so trivial into such a big deal.     "That's cool.  I'm sure you'll be right back."

     Claire averted her eyes, staring down at the floor.   "No David.  This isn't a visit.  I'm leaving for good.  Moving back to North Carolina to live with my mom, see my family, my grandmother.  I'll be back but only for school in the fall." she explained thoroughly, leaving no room for him to misunderstand.  She made sure she was perfectly clear.

Realization crept in and David's eyes narrowed to tiny, suspicious little slits.  "What are you talking about?"

Claire spoke firmly.  "David I'm leaving.  Moving."

     David stepped close to her, their bodies nearly touching.  "Claire what are you saying?   This is your home.  You live here."

 Claire's voice cracked.  "David I have a life, a family back in North Carolina.  A family I haven't seen in almost a year.  My family..., my mom..., they all need me."

     David went perfectly still.  The expression on his face was priceless.  "Are you serious?  Your leaving?   You're leaving me?  This must be some kind of joke." he said, his voice full of disbelief. 

     Claire's lips flattened.  "I wish it was."

"When...when are you leaving?" he asked bitterly, staring her down.

     Claire didn't understand what difference it made but the answered anyway.  "The day after graduation." she muttered slowly.

David tried to slow and control his breathing.   He couldn't believe what he was hearing.   He never expected this.  Never saw it coming.  He couldn't believe she was springing this on him at the very last minute.  Graduation was less than two weeks away. "What?! he mouthed incredulously, his tone full of venom.   What about your dad, school, Cassie?!   What about me?!" he said lastly, shouting, pounding his fist against his chest.

     The hurt and mistrust Claire saw in David's eyes was her undoing.  She burst into tears.  She cried because she knew she was hurting him, knew he loved her.  "David I'm sorry." she cried.

     "What about us?!  Are you going to be my long distance, part-time girlfriend?  Huh?!" he yelled.  "I won't get to see you all summer?!" 

     "I'm not asking you to wait David!" Claire shouted through a cloud of tears. 

David stood in front of her, walking in tight circles, agitated.  "Then what are you asking me?!  What are you saying?!" He threw his hands up in frustration.  "I don't believe this.  This is crazy." he said loudly.  "I love you and I thought you loved me." he said, staring her down, waiting to hear some declaration of love from her, waiting for the return of those three little words but the words never came.

     "David you're not being fair." Claire said at once.  The disappointment, doubt and pure anger she saw in his made her feel so guilty.  She was dyeing inside.  She loved him with all her heart but if hating her would make him feel better, help him move on and get over her more quickly, then she'd let it be.    David was a great guy, incredibly smart and so handsome he still managed to take her breath away every time she saw him.  He deserved to be happy, have someone in his life.  She couldn't ask him to wait for her, wear his heart out on her.  Confessing her love for him now would only make matters worst.   Better for him to think she didn't love him and move on with his life.  

Please stop and play the audio track below before reading any further. Listen to the track as you read the remaining story to help envision the scene.  There are two music file versions, a continuous loop for those of you who choose to listen repeatedly and a manual version for those who prefer to listen only once.  Thanks.

  Continuous Play, Looping mp3 Version.  mp3 track will play over and over

 Manual mp3 Version below. Will have to be reset manually to replay

David took Claire's hand in his and pulled her close. "I don't care about being fair.  Do you or do you not love me?"  he asked boldly, putting her on the spot.

     Claire was silent for a long time, not answering,  but when she did, the words cut like a knife, killing David inside.   She looked him straight in the eyes and lied to him.  "I don't love you." she said firmly, fighting to subdue her tears.

     David's face turned hard, his expression grew bleak.

At such a close distance Claire could see the cold expression in his brown eyes, the rigid set of his jaw as he fought to hide the hurt he was feeling, as he fought to control his temper.    David dropped her hand, sucked in his breath and slowly backed away from her, putting distance between them.  She reached out to him but he pulled away.

     He nodded his head in acknowledgement.  Acknowledging that she had made a fool of him.  Not only was she leaving but she didn't love him.  He had fallen in love with her, trusted her and believed she felt the same way.    His temper erupted.  "Damn you!...I trusted you." he said between clinched teeth.   

     "No." Claire cried.  "I wanted to tell you but I didn't want to hurt you."

"The hell you didn't!" David yelled.  "I don't want to hear it.  Don't bother lying anymore!  Don't stand there pretending your lying was for my benefit!  You had every opportunity to tell me.  You let me believe we had something!"he accused, shaking his head.     "Who is he?!" he shouted

     Claire was confused.  "What are you talking about?"

"This guy who has you running back to North Carolina." David accused.  Claire was obviously headed back to North Carolina for a reason other than her family.  He was sure of it.

     "There is no one, no other guy!" Claire flung at him, hurt by his accusation.

"You really think I'm a fool don't you?" David said sharply, his irritation now plainly showing on his face for her to see.  "You've known all along you were leaving, that you weren't in love with me."

      Claire felt defeated.  "David no matter what I say you won't believe me.  It won't make a difference.  We don't have to be enemies David.  We can still be friends."

"There's no way in hell I can be just friends with you!" David argued.  "You've been lying to me the whole time." he bit off, swearing under his breath.  His eyes roamed over her.  "You let me make love to you.  Or was that all a part of your lie!?" he screamed.

     "No!" Claire shouted.  "I wanted to be with you and I don't regret what happened.  What we shared that night was and still is special." Claire replied.

"Great.  I'm happy I was able to help you create some lasting memories.  I hope I lived up to your expectations." he said insultingly.     He was furious.  "Goddammit"! he shouted, picking up his glass of juice from the counter, hurling it against the wall, sending shards of glass and liquid spraying everywhere.

     Claire flinched at the sound of the shattering glass, covering her mouth with her hands to keep from crying out.

David turned to her, his expression blank.  "You should go.  You can see yourself out."he said coldly.

     Claire didn't argue.  There was nothing left to say.  She grabbed her purse, headed for the door then turned back.  She unclasped the necklace and forced it into David's hand, covering his hand with hers, pressing his fingers close.   "I'm sorry." she whispered, turning, walking out the door.

Scene 45  
 Eddie came home late and found Jenn in the kitchen washing dishes.  He knew she was upset with him.  She stood at the sink, her posture tense, back rigid.  Not once did she turn to greet him or acknowledge he was home.  She pretended he wasn't there.  He threw his keys on the kitchen table and walked up to her, cautiously sliding his arms around her waist.  "I can explain." he said, volunteering to explain his whereabouts. 

     "I tried to hold dinner for you, thought you'd be home on time.  The kids and I have already eaten.   We had takeout." Jenn said, wiping her hands on the dish towel, her voice heavy with disappointment.

     "Let me explain." Eddie pleaded. 

"I'm listening." Jenn said.

      Eddie forced her to turn around in his arms, face him.  "I was at the hospital.  Jeron was attacked last night.  Someone roughed him up pretty bad.

      Jenn was shocked with the bad news. "Oh my goodness.  Is he going to be alright?"

"Nothing a few days of bed rest won't help but he's not talking, refuses to tell us who the guy is." Eddie said.

     "What makes you so sure he knows his attacker?" Jenn questioned.

"Trust me..., he knows." Eddie said.  He suspected Jeron owed someone money or had dipped into someone's drug stash but only time would tell. 

        "I bet Dana's worried sick." Jenn sympathized. 

"Don't worry about Dana and Jeron's going to be okay." Eddie confirmed.   "Nate and I are going to try our best to help him."

       "I'll be sure and stop by and see them tomorrow." Jenn said, smiling with relief.  She gave Eddie and affectionate kiss on the cheek.  She felt ashamed for doubting him.  She had sat watching the clock all evening,  wondering where he was, counting the minutes until he came home.  Thank goodness he had been at the hospital and not out on the town with Nadine as she had shamefully suspected. 

     Eddie stared down at Jenn, trying to figure out what was different about her, then it hit him.  She'd changed her hair style and she looked beautiful.  He'd noticed something different about her the moment he'd walked through the door but hadn't managed to figure it out until now.  He chuckled to himself, wondering how long it would take her to ask him what he thought of her new hair style. 

     "What's so funny?" Jenn asked.

"Nothing, nothing at all." Eddie managed.

     Jenn ran her fingers through her hair.  Eddie obviously hadn't noticed her new look.  He hadn't said one word.  Not one compliment had he given her.  He had looked right through her.  She shook her head, flinging her jet black hair across her shoulders.  "Honey what do you think?" she asked.  She found herself holding her breath, waiting for his reaction.

     Eddie played along, never letting on he had noticed her new hair style.  "About what?" he asked nonchalantly.      

Jenn pulled away from him.  "Nothing." she said sadly, pulling away from him.    "You're probably hungry.  I'll warm your dinner."

      "No need." Eddie said.  He could get his own dinner.   "I'll throw it in the microwave.  Why don't you go on upstairs."

"Don't be long." Jenn replied, turning to head upstairs. 

     "By the way," Eddie called out,  stopping her before she could leave, "You look real sexy.  That hair cut suits you." he said seductively, laughing.

     Jenn couldn't help but laugh.  She picked up the dish towel and threw it at him.  He'd noticed her all along.   She kissed him on the mouth.  "Eddie Sutton what am I going to do with you?"  

      "Love me." Eddie responded, pulling her close.

Scene 46
Charles rushed into the Revolution, his eyes scanning and quickly finding Cassie at a table far in the corner.   He rushed over to her, hugged her and swallowed her up in his arms, lifting her half off the floor as if he hadn't just seen her an hour ago.

     Cassie met his affectionate greeting with humor.  "Charles what are you doing here?" she laughed softly.  "You don't have to worry about me.  I told you I'd be okay.  I'm safe here." she said, assuming he had come to check up on her.  He was so sweet, coming back to check on her, making sure she was safe.

     Charles flashed a brilliant smile.  "I'm glad your okay but that's not why I'm here."

"Oh...is everything okay?" Cassie asked, curious as to Charles's visit, a worried, concerned expression showing on her face. 

     "Everything's fine." Charles said, putting her mind at ease.  Everything was going to be okay.  He knew that now and seeing Cassie's face, the warmth and concern for him shining in her eyes, made him believe he was definitely making the right decision.  "Can we talk?"

"Sure.  What's up?" Cassie asked casually.

     "Uh...can we go someplace private?" Charles asked, glancing around the crowded restaurant.  

Cassie took Charles's hand, leading him into to the back storage room.  "This is as private as it's going to get." she said, closing the door behind them.  "Charles are you sure everything's okay." she asked

      Charles stepped extra close to Cassie with his hands on her waist.  He wanted her full undivided attention when he said what he had to say.  He licked his lips nervously.  "Cassie I've been thinking.  I know I may not be the guy your parents would have chosen for you and I may not be perfect father material but you know I love you. 

     Cassie's eyes darted up to his face.  "Charles why are you saying these things?" she asked, turned off by his pessimistic attitude.  Hearing him make remarks like that about himself worried her.  She tried to read him but the look on his face was undefinable.  He looked more uncomfortable than ever.

      Charles's fingers flexed on Cassie's waist.  "Cassie I can't offer you a lot right now." he answered truthfully.   His life as it stood was meager at best.  He was working at a garage with no stability and security to speak of. "You deserve so much more than I can give you.    There's so much I want to do for you." he said, pointing out his inadeqaucies.    "I've thought a lot about this and if you're pregnant, I want us to be a real family and I promise you I'll try to make you happy, provide for you as best I can." he promised, cupping her cheek in his hand, trailing his finger lightly along her jawline.

Please stop and play the audio track below before reading any further. Listen to the track as you read the remaining story to help envision the scene.  Thanks

 Cassie covered Charles's hand with her own, pressing his palm flat against her face, her love and commitment for him showing in her eyes.  "Charles I don't care about those things.  None of those material things matter." she stressed, hoping he'd understand she wasn't impressed by tons of money, expensive gifts and a lavish lifestyle. 

      Charles steadied himself, stared into her eyes.  He was full of hidden inadequacies and insecurities about himself, their life and future together but was certain of one thing, having Cassie in his life wasn't an option.  She was the one constant thing in his life that he couldn't lose.  He'd rather be with her, struggling through hard times than to not have her at all.    He had thought about what it would be like without her, to have her missing from his life, watch her love someone else and he knew he could never do it.  "Baby, I don't want you to regret choosing me..., grow to resent me." he said, hoping like hell he'd be able to live up to her expectations.     

   "Charles I love you and you're wrong about what you can give me." she replied, resting her head against his warm chest.  They had been through so much together but found their way back to each other time and time again.   She was convinced his love for her grew stronger each time.  "I know you love me Charles but I'm scared your feelings will change.  I want you to love me, be with me no matter what happens, no matter what the test results are." she said, revealing a few insecurities of her own, her mind heavily poisoned with Sages warnings.  What if she was right?  What if Charles grew tired and frustrated of being tied down, being a young father?  What if he decided being with her and raising a family wasn't worth the struggle? What would become of her and her baby if let her down by breaking her heart?
   

     Charles's eyebrows drew together, confused.    He drew back, staring downing at Cassie's face.   "You think I'm going to stop loving you?" he asked bluntly, amazed she could think such a thing.

     Cassie gnawed on her bottom lip and nodded silently.  It was her biggest fear.  Fear that a baby would change things between them, ultimately ending their relationship. 

     Charles smiled softly, realizing Cassie still didn't understand why he was here having this private conversation with her.  "Cassie, if you're pregnant, my son is going to be the most important thing in my life and I want you and my son to be with me, have my last name." he said, his voice bristling with male pride.

     Cassie shot him an awkward look, her gaze wandered over his face with uncertainty.  She thought she knew what he was saying but was too afraid to allow herself to hope, imagine it being so.    "Charles what are you saying?" she asked, a small hint of a smile appearing on her face.  Her heart fluttered in anticipation.

     Charles smiled reassuringly.  He could see the pulse at the base of Cassie's throat fluttering.  His big hand smoothed her hair from her beautiful face.  "If you're pregnant I want us to get married right away." he said firmly, stating his intentions.  "No more putting off, waiting  for months or years until we finish college." he explained.   "I want you to be my wife."

     Cassie stared up into his face with her heart in her eyes, her lips trembling with joy.  It wasn't what Charles said but the way he said it, his voicing going all tender, possessive and sincere.  "Charles do you mean it?  Are you sure it's what you want? she asked, her smile radiating.

      Charles puller her close.  "I'm positive." he confirmed.  "It's going to take more than a screaming baby and Sage's man bashing to get rid of me." he said, bringing his head down to kiss her.

      Cassie threw her arms around his neck and tilted her head up, meeting his kiss.  Charles moaned when she pulled away suddenly, ending the kiss all too soon.

      "Charles, wait..., you keep saying son.   What if it's a girl." she pointed out, smiling.  If they were going to be parents, have a baby, she definitely wanted a girl.

     "Then she'll be just as beautiful as her mom." Charles complemented.  "Although, I do remember my mom mentioning once that twins run in our family." he joked, cocking his head to the side.

      "Charles!" Cassie gasped, laughing hard at his joke.  

Charles drew her close for another kiss.  "I love you Mrs. Antoni." he whispered against her lips. 

Scene 47

Here's A Picture of Claire's Father Officer Adam Watkins

Claire was surprised to find her mom's car still parked in the driveway when she arrived home.  Earlier when she'd left for David's,  her mom and dad had been arguing as usual.  It was a normal occurrence for them and she had tuned them out, slamming the door behind her as she left.
    
     "Mom?" Claire called out loudly, bursting through the front door, tears still pouring down her face from her fight with David.  Needless to say, had she known she was about to get the shock of her life, she would have braced herself.  Her mom and dad stood together, locked in an embrace, kissing passionately.   "Oh my God!" Claire shouted, staring in shock, her mouth hanging wide open, speechless.  
 
      Watkins and Denise quickly pulled away from each other, composing themselves.  Shame and embarrassment showed plainly on their faces.  Neither one of them had expected Claire to return so quickly.

"What are you guys doing?!" Claire shouted, her eyes darting back and forth from her dad to her mom, expecting some kind of explanation from one of them.  Her dad's face was smeared with her mom's lipstick and her mom's hair was disheveled, completely out of place.  She threw her hands up and back down.  "Never mind.  I don't want to know." She'd been through enough tonight.  She had fully expected to rush in, lay her head on her moms lap and cry her heart out like she did when she was a little girl.  Instead, she had been treated to an overwhelming display of passionate lip lock. It was more than she could take. 

      Watkins dropped his head low and rubbed his forehead.  A fine example he was setting for his daughter.  A real fine example he thought shamefully.   He didn't know what to say.  "Claire..., what are you doing here?  Why are you back so soon?  You just left.  And why are you crying?"
 
      "I live here!" Claire said sharply   "I leave for a few minutes and you two are all over each other?!"she asked sarcastically, her question sounding more like an accusing statement.

"Claire it's not what it seems." Denise rationalized.

     Claire glared at her dad, her voice condemning.  "Dad..., I don't believe you," and mom, she said, turning to stare at her, "you're a married woman!"

     Denise tried to explain to Claire.  "Claire..., baby, it's not what you think.   Let's go to your bedroom and talk about this."

"I don't want to talk about it.  Just leave me alone.  Both of you!" she yelled, storming down the hall to her room.

     Denise started to go after her but Watkins stopped her.  "I'll talk to Claire.  Why don't you go on back to your hotel."

Scene 48
Cassie froze in place, the hairs on the back of her neck stood up.  She came home from work to find someone had been in her room.  Her bed had been stripped down to the bare mattress and she distinctly remembered hiding the pregnancy test under the bed covers this morning.  She tore her room apart, frantically searching for the missing test.  She searched in every nook and cranny, opened every drawer, even looked under the bed but there was no sign of it. 

     "Looking for this?" Jenn asked, leaning against the door jamb, holding the pregnancy test in her hand.

Cassie whirled at the sound of Jenn's voice behind her.  Her heart sank at the sight of the test.  "Mom..., you had no right!  This is my room!" Cassie argued.

      "I had every right young lady and I expect an explanation." Jenn corrected her, walking further into the room, slamming the door close behind her. 

     Cassie swallowed hard and slumped down on the bed, her eyes beginning to glisten.  A part of her was relieved that her mom now knew the truth.  "It was a careless mistake mom.  " she said, her voice shaky and wobbly. 

     "A mistake?" Jenn questioned incredulously, not really expecting an answer but annoyed at Cassie's irresponsible behavior. 
"Cassie I agreed to you having contraceptives because I knew you were sexually active and believed you and Charles were mature enough to accept the responsibilities and risks involved.  Not because I approved or condoned you having sex." 

     Cassie defended Charles.   She didn't want him blamed for a mistake she had so foolishly made.  "We are responsible mom.  Please don't blame Charles."

      Jenn held the pregnancy test up in her hands.  "Cassie this test is proof that you and Charles have obviously made some unwise decisions." she stated.    "Proof that you're either not taking your pills or having unprotected sex.  Otherwise, we wouldn't be talking about mistakes now would we?"

     Cassie averted her eyes, avoiding the subject.  Her mom was going to be so disappointed in her.  Months ago she had forced her to enroll in teen pregnancy and prevention classes, stressing the importance of sexual education.  A lot of good it had done.  Here she sat, guilty on both counts.  Not only had she not taken her pill, resulting in a possible pregnancy, but she had also had unprotected sex.   

     Jenn eyes fixated on Cassie's face.  Cassie had skillfully avoided the question.  Her avoidance was enough to raise Jenn's eyebrows with suspicion and concern.  Jenn asked again, though she felt she already knew the answer.  "Cassie are you and Charles having unprotected sex?"

     Cassie had never been more embarrassed in her life but took full responsibility for her actions.  "Yes but it's my fault mom.  I forgot to take my pill.  None of this would be happening if I hadn't forgotten.  I made a mistake.  One mistake."

        Jenn was totally unprepared for Cassie's admission.  The thought of Cassie putting herself at risk, having unprotected sex angered her.   "Cassie...,  honey it only takes once but it's one mistake too many.  Do you realize how many young women like yourself get pregnant over foolish mistakes?  Cassie most girls get pregnant their first time being intimate or after missing only one pill.  That's why it's so important to be informed and educated on sexual awareness. Not only are there pregnancy risks but more importantly health risks." she reminded her.   

     Cassie hated the authoritative tone in her mom's voice but she knew she was right.  She felt like a child instead of a young woman. She and Charles might be young and may have made some bad decisions but they were unlike any other young couple.  They had the love of a lifetime.  "Mom it's different with Charles and me." she said, trying to justify their actions.   "We love each other and we want to be together forever.  I love him mom.  I want to spend the rest of my life with him.  We're going to take the test next week and if I'm pregnant we're getting married right away."   

      Jenn's her heart went out to Cassie.  She understood Cassie's feelings, understood the attraction and undeniable pull of young love.   She sat close beside her on the bed, put her arm around her and spoke gently.  "Cassie I know you love Charles and he's very special to you but that doesn't mean the two of you should make rash decisions that could jeopardize each others future.  If you love each other and plan on spending the rest of your lives together, the choices you make now could very well change your future and unfortunately, if you're not careful, it could be for the worst.   Don't be in such a hurry to become an adult.  Trust me..., being young has its advantages. You've got years ahead of you to plan and think about babies, marriage and raising a family.   Now is the time for you and Charles to slow things down a bit, have fun, enjoy each other and everything else will fall into place."

      "Are you going to stop me from seeing Charles?" Cassie asked, her face turning hard, ready to defend her and Charles's relationship if necessary.

      "Would it make a difference if I forbid you to see him?" Jenn asked curtly, her subconscious telling her Cassie would disobey and disregard any rules when it came to Charles."

     "No." Cassie said defiantly but honestly.  There was no use lying.  Nothing would stop her from loving Charles, being with him.

Jenn was disappointed with Cassie's response but respected her honesty.  "Cassie I was a young girl once and I know forbidding you to see Charles will only drive you further into his arms." Jenn said, standing up to leave, handing Cassie the pregnancy test.  "If I were you I'd put that in a safer place." she suggested smugly.  "We wouldn't want your father finding it."

      Cassie tucked the kit safely away in the night table drawer.  "I guess you have to tell him what's going on."

Jenn wasn't sure what she wanted to do or what was going to happen.  Not to mention there was a good chance Cassie wasn't pregnant.  "Cassie," she paused, sighing audibly, choosing her words carefully, "there's a responsibility that comes along with being sexually active..., sexually mature.  A responsibility I'm just not convinced you're completely ready for.  Right now we're at the mercy of the test results.  Let's wait until you take the test before we decide on anything." she said, leaving, closing the door behind her.

Watkins knocked on Claire's door.  "We need to talk baby girl." he said, talking through the door.

     Claire tunneled her tear stained face deeper into her pillow.  "Dad please.  Not now." she rang out.  She didn't want to talk to anyone.  All she wanted was to be left alone.  The entire evening had turned into one big nightmare.  Everything normal in her life had come crashing down around her.  Breaking up with David, then finding her parents together had been more than she could take.

     "Baby I know you're upset and disappointed with your mother and me." Watkins said.  "Claire I know we were wrong but sometimes things aren't as simple as they may seem." he reasoned.

     Claire knew her dad wouldn't rest until he'd said his peace.  She got out of bed and opened the door, letting him inside.  She sank back against the pillows on her bed, absently staring at one spot on the wall while Watkins took the spare seat her desk.

     Watkins leaned forward in the chair and rubbed his palms together.  "Claire look..., I'm not making excuses for what happened but sometimes when you know someone, have a history with them like your mother and I do..., things happen.  Denise and I...we uh...we had a good marriage. She's a good woman." he said, commending his ex-wife.  "We shared some real good times and sometimes a person can start to think and reminisce about what they had and what they lost." he explained, his voice filled with regret.  "I guess seeing each other again made us think about the good times and all the good things we lost when we split up.  I may argue, fuss and fight with your mom but seeing her again made me remember the good things I loved about her.  Why I married her in the first place."

     Claire sat up on the bed.  "Dad do you still love mom?" she asked, feeling sorry for him.

Watkins wasn't surprised at all by Claire's question.  He knew the answer to that question was an emphatic, undisputed yes but he couldn't tell Claire that.  Denise herself wasn't even aware he still loved her.  He waited a few seconds before answering Claire's question.  "Claire I was married to Denise and she's your mother.  For those reasons alone I will always care for her." he said, justifying his feelings.  "Baby girl my point in all of this is even though Denise and I may think about each other and miss one another, that doesn't necessarily mean we want to go back and relive those times.  What's done is done.  Your mother's a married woman and I"m content with my life her.  Do you understand what I'm saying?" he asked.

     Claire forced a smile.  After what had happened between her and David this evening she understood completely.  She knew what it meant to love someone, care for them..., hurt and suffer when you lost them.  "I'm sorry I got so upset but you really shocked me." she apologized.  "I didn't mean to shout like I did."

     "It's okay." Watkins said, getting up from his chair. "It's getting late.  I'm going to turn in and let you get some sleep.  Goodnight." he said, turning for the door.

     "Dad wait," Claire called out, "just one more thing." she said, staring at his face, a humorous twinkle in her eyes.

"What's that?" Watkins asked, pausing at the door.

     "Please wipe that silly lipstick off your face." Claire laughed.

Watkins chuckled on his way out the door.  "Goodnight baby girl."

 Jenn wrapped her arms around Eddie's neck, smiling up at him as they danced.  This was her husband.  The man she loved.  "Eddie Sutton you are the most wonderful man in the world and I am the luckiest woman in the world." she said, resting her head on his shoulder. 

      Eddie caressed her back with his hand.  Her compliment made him smile.  He pulled back and smiled down at her.  "I told you that when you married me." he teased.  "Now if only you can convince your dad of that." he added, laughing.

     Jenn chuckled softly.  "I wish they could have been here." she said, wishing her parents could have celebrated her birthday with her.  Seen what a wonderful night Eddie had planned.

     "Don't worry.  They'll be here for Cassie's graduation." Eddie reminded her.

"You're right." Jenn agreed, her tone suddenly turning serious.  "I'm sorry I doubted you honey." she said sadly.

      Eddie kissed her on the temple.  "Doubted me about what?" he asked, turning with her, dancing slowly.  He was enjoying this.  He hadn't danced with his wife in a long time and she'd finally gotten the surprise party he'd been promising her for years.

     Jenn shook her head softly and snuggled closer to him, resting her forehead against his chin.  "Nothing." she lied.  "Nothing at all."  What he didn't know couldn't hurt him.  He didn't need to know she had given him so little credit, doubted him so.   He'd went through all this trouble and expense planning a wonderful surprise for her.  She didn't dare take the moment away from him.  Telling him now would only complicate matters and his feelings would undoubtedly be hurt.  

    This party explained so much.  His late evenings, coming home smelling of perfume, tasting of wine.  The private phone calls from Nadine.  It all made sense now.  She shuddered to think she almost endangered her marriage over her petty insecurities and skepticism.  Never again would she distrust her husband.  She would accept his word at face value.

     Eddie reached into his pockets and pulled out a small gift box.  "I got you a little something." he said, pressing the box into her hands.  "The kids helped me pick it out."

     Jenn was elated.  First a party now he was presenting her with a gift.  She opened the box and sighed audibly.  There was a beautiful mother's ring with all three of the kids' birthstones and names.  Engraved along the inside band was their birth years. "Oh honey it's beautiful." she breathed.  Her father had given her mother one many years ago and she had always wanted one of her own.

      Eddie took the ring from her and slid it onto her finger.  "I know it's normally a mother's day gift but you've always wanted one so..." His voice trailed off.

     "No honey it's perfect." Jenn said, smiling down at her hand.  "Absolutely perfect." she added.

Eddie had a wicked grin on his face.  "What do you say we work on adding a name to that ring of yours tonight?" he said huskily, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively.

     Jenn didn't respond.  She simply smiled and kissed him.

     Here's A Sample/Idea of What Jenn's Ring Looked Like

Scene 53        Later that night....after the party

Cassie rushed downstairs at the sound of the doorbell, her keys and purse in hand.  "I'll get it!" she yelled, expecting Charles.  He was late.  She'd been waiting for the past thirty mintues.  The day had finally arrived for her to take the pregnancy test.  Having waited so long, nervously wondering for so many days and nights, she and Charles were anxious to finally learn the results.  They had thought of nothing else all day, neither one able to focus and concentrate on anything else.  She had day dreamed in school all day and Charles had found it extremely difficult to complete his project at work.  He had driven over to Cassie's house tonight in complete silence, mentally preparing himself for whatever might happen, whatever the results might be.  He and Cassie had agreed he should pick her up.  They both knew she'd be much to upset to drive home alone if the results happened to be positive.  They'd also take the test at his house where they would have complete privacy.   Everything in their lives was now dependent upon what happened within the next hour and it scared the hell out of them.

Cassie greeted Charles at the door.  "Hi." she said, standing back, letting him enter.

      Charles walked into the house and greeted everyone.  "Good evening Mr. and Mrs. Sutton." he said awkwardly, greeting the two as they sat snuggled together on the couch, watching television, relaxing after the party. 

      "Hi Charles." Eddie said, barely sparing him a glance, his attention focused on the action packed thriller he was watching on tv.     

       "Charles..., hi." Jenn said, sitting up on the sofa, her voice a bit edgy, facial features slightly hardened.  This was her first time seeing Charles since learning of Cassie's probable pregnancy.   She wasn't angry with him per say but wasn't exactly pleased either.  Charles was a good guy but neither he nor Cassie was prepared to raise a child.  She was concerned for them both.

      Charles struggled to look Jenn in the eyes without fidgeting.  Cassie had explained that her mom had found the pregnancy test.  He couldn't blame her  if she was a little upset and concerned.  "I'm sorry I missed your party Mrs. Sutton.  I had to work.  There's this huge project we're working on so...." he tried to explain, his voice trailing off awkwardly.    

     "We'd better go." Cassie interrupted, dropping her keys into her purse. 

"Cassie I thought you were in for the night." Jenn mentioned, staring at the clock on the wall.  "Aren't you tired?"

      "Mom I'm fine and I still have a few hours before curfew." Cassie countered nonchalantly.  "Please mom.  I'll be home on time." she promised, her eyes fixing on Charles.  

Jenn stared at the two for a minutes before answering.  "See that you are." she warned, making herself comfortable, snuggling in close to Eddie, enjoying the remainder of the television program.

Scene 54

Charles stood outside the bathroom with Cassie.  They were both nervous but each trying to hide it from the other. 

     Cassie held the test in her hands, nervously turning the box over and over in her hands.  No need to read the directions.  Over the past few days,  she had studied the test day in and day out, all but memorizing the instructions.

     Charles studied Cassie quietly, watched her repeatedly turning the test in her hands, staring at it as if she expected some kind of miracle to happen.  He recognized her nervousness for what is was...,fear.  She was scared and it tore him up inside seeing her like this.  He circled her wrist with his hands, stopping her from fumbling with the box.  "It's okay baby." he whispered softly. 

      Cassie looked up at Charles with saddened eyes.  She shook her head.  "No it's not okay Charles." she said, fear and panic slowly setting in.  Her breathing grew so hard and quick she feared she'd hyperventilate.  "I don't want to do this Charles.  We should wait.  Let's wait one more day." she said fearfully, her voice cracking, trying to put off the inevitable.  All this time she had wanted nothing more than to take the test, hurry and get the results but now that the time had come she was too afraid.

      Charles rubbed her arms, trying to calm her.  "Hey...hey....shh..it's okay Cassie." he soothed, bending to stare into her eyes.  "Come on...calm down...it's okay." he said, comforting her.  She was so scared he could feel her trembling.  "We promised we'd do this together.  I know you're scared but I'm going to be right here with you." 

     Cassie dropped her lashes to shield her eyes from Charles's probing gaze.  She wanted to be brave and strong but her nerves got the best of her.  "I can't do it Charles.  I need more time." she argued, backing away, trying to pull her wrist free of his hands.

     Charles held firm, refusing to release her.  "Listen to me," he reasoned, "we need to do this.  We can't wait.  Let's take the test and face whatever happens." he explained.    He couldn't let her wait, stall one minute longer.  She was terrified and he knew waiting would only make things worse.      

     Cassie swallowed the hard lump in her throat and released a huge sigh, composing herself, readying herself for what she had to do.  

     Charles pressed his lips against hers, planting a soft reassuring kiss, letting her know he was right there with her and he wasn't going anywhere.  "You ready to do this?" he asked tenderly.

     Cassie nodded her head.  She was ready.  Charles was right.  It was time.  Their lives had been put on hold long enough.  It was definitely time.   Charles gave her one final quick kiss on the forehead.  She stepped into the bathroom, looked back over her shoulder at him and closed the door behind her.

      Charles stood outside the bathroom door, pacing nervously back and forth.  He ran both hands through his hair in frustration,  wondering what could be taking so long.  "Cassie are you okay?" he called out anxiously. 

     "Yes Charles..., just give me a minute." Cassie answered.

Charles tried to be patient.  He stood with his back turned, his hands jammed into his pockets but whirled the instant he heard the bathroom door open.   

Please stop and play the audio track below before reading any further. Listen to the track as you read the remaining story to help envision the scene. There are two music file versions, a continuous loop for those of you who choose to listen repeatedly and a manual version for those who prefer to listen only once.  Thanks

 Continuous Play, Looping mp3 Version.  mp3 track will play over and over

 Manual mp3 Version below. Will have to be reset manually to replay

 The bathroom door creaked open inch by inch, slowly revealing Cassie's incapacitated stance, her stricken face.  She stood motionless, the pregnancy test stick still in her hand.

      Charles stood for a moment, studying her flushed face, too afraid to speak.  He forced himself to talk.  "How long do we have to wait." he asked, knowing there was a specified waiting period for the results.

     "Three minutes." Cassie answered, her voice shaky and pitchy with fear, so scared she could barely move.   They had to wait three long, drawn out, miserable minutes.  Right now, three minutes might as well be three hours.  It sounded like an eternity.

     Charles looked at her, saw her lips quiver, saw the first signs of moisture pooling in her eyes.  The fear he saw in her eyes nearly killed him.  "Come here baby." he said softly, stepping into the bathroom with her, his arms reaching out to her. 

      Cassie stood rigid, not returning his embrace, so nervous and tense it took all her strength and will power to stand on her own. 

Charles tried to take the pregnancy stick away from her but she was holding on for dear life with a death grip.  "Cassie let go." he said, tugging at the stick, finally having to pry it out of her hand. 

      "I'm so scared Charles." Cassie cried, wrapping her arms around his neck, holding him as tightly as she could.

Charles held her as she cried, smoothed her hair and rubbed her back..., pressed soft kisses on the top of her head.  "I'm scared to." he admitted reluctantly, gently pulling away from her, cupping her face in his hands. 

      Traces of black mascara ran down Cassie's face.   Her eyes were swollen and red rimmed from crying.    She looked a mess but Charles thought he'd never seen her look more beautiful.  Holding her as he was now, comforting her at such a painful, scary time made him feel so possessive.   He looked down into her face and he knew she was his.  No matter what happened she was his. He held her a little away from him, raising the test stick up to read the results.  "It's time." he said slowly  "No matter what happens, remember I love you."

      Cassie looked away, refused to see the results.  "I can't look Charles.  I just can't.  You do it." she cried, hiding her face in his chest.

     Charles stared at the test stick, his face and eyes unreadable, his breathing heavy.  He tugged gently on Cassie's hair, slowly tilting her head back so he could see her face.  "I'm going to be a father." he revealed slowly, his eyes watering.    "You're pregnant Cassie." he whispered softly.      

      The life drained from Cassie's face. The strength left her body. She broke down.  "Charles no!" she cried, her voice barely audible, racked with uncontrollable sobbing, her knees giving way beneath her. "No...no...no!" she shouted through her tears.

       Charles struggled to hold her up, going with her as she fell to the floor, weeping inconsolably.  "It's going to be okay baby.  I promise." he replied, trying to hold back his own tears.  He cuddled Cassie against his side, buried her face in the warm curve of his neck.  

     Cassie gasped and sobbed on his shoulder for what seemed like hours.  For the longest time they sat holding each other..., crying..., neither one saying a word.    Tonight marked the end of the old.  Tomorrow would most certainly be the start of something new.

  The End.     Stay Tuned for Story # 7