Beauty of Man and Woman – Episode 27

Written by Mercedes Keyes
Interracial drama series
Overall rating R

 

Chapter 80

His head was spinning as he lay in bed trying to bring his mind and body back into some sort of calm. It was too much. Sylvia gone. Deidre in critical condition. He lay in the center of their bed, his knees up, one arm across his head, the other hand over his face pinching the bridge of his nose. His mother had given him something to calm him down, to relax him. They were on the phone making flight arrangements. He, Gert, Shanna and Angela were heading for California as soon as they could get a flight there.

He couldn't get the tears to stop flowing, while the rage of the storm was over, his heart hurt.

Deidre was Angela's mother, she could be dying, he had to get his daughter there. He needed to see her as well. He felt ripped in two. Because heading for California meant he would have to wait in the search for his wife. He thought about Sheila. The only person thus far responsible for the smile that came to his face. She was one hell of a woman, that was for certain. She had swooped in like a mighty wind and put things in order, letting him rage to a point and had only cussed him out a few times to bring him in check and back under control. He chuckled again thinking, 'Man can she cuss! Holy crap – I gotta meet the man who handles her.' Even so, she was also reassuring and kind behind all the bluster and mouth. He had a feeling, that her heart was filled to the brim and all the gruff bravado was her way of protecting a gentle heart. Over and over, she'd said, "Don't worry about nothing, get that matter seen to first. That babies mama in critical condition, pull yo'shit together, and get yo' ass there! Me and the kids will keep trying to find Sylvia. You ain't gone get no closer to finding her than we will."

While laying there knowing that to be true, he didn't want to leave off finding her.

Tears flooded his eyes again. He kept thinking over and over again where he'd gone wrong. What had he done to make her feel the need to run? She said she couldn't face him. His anger, his disdain. He sniffed because he knew with her, had she been guilty as charged of all things with Jake, he knew that he loved her so much, he would have done anything to win her heart back from him. Yet, making things ten times worse for him to deal with, was the fact that all she'd done, was love him heart and soul, trying to protect him. She had indeed stood strong and loyal to him. As his mother and sister pointed out to him. They however noticed the condition of him and took mercy on him, unable to bring him more pain, but his mother did say to him. "She's done you no wrong son, not my Sylvie." He sniffed, to everyone, she was becoming, "My Sylvie." as his mother had declared her.

Finally, he had a woman who told Jake where to go, but he'd been so insanely jealous that he'd flown off the handle and scared her. "Baby please…" He whispered almost in prayer, as if she could possibly hear him. "… I can't stand this… please… Sylvie please… I need you to come home now. I need to hold you – so bad – I'm so sorry – I'm so sorry. Just call please? Just call… I need to know you're okay." He used his thumb and index finger to wipe at his tears. His mind in a whirl over where she may have gone. "Are you safe? God, she's out there by herself… please." His conscience was eating him alive with the knowledge that he'd made it impossible for her to stand and face him.

His mind kept playing over and over the time they'd been together. He could now see where he'd maybe been a bit forceful with her, but he couldn't help himself with her. Something about her made him feel the need to hold her close and not let go. An overpowering need to look into her eyes, know every thought, catch every wonder, anticipate a change, solve the mystery of it, and fill her needs. He wanted to be her all – in everyway. There were senses and sensations in his arms and along the front of is body that needed the close physical contact of her. Why, he couldn't explain it, but when the sensation came over him, all that would assuage it was her body, the feel of it, the warmth of it, the smell of her, the softness of it yielding to him. He couldn't let her go until the sensation passed. Until the blood surging through his system heating him up, calmed down. Then… then he could let her go. Then his arms could loosen their hold on her. Now, as he lay there, the sensation was overwhelming, the empty place where she should now be, was shocking to his system. Laying there, he knew he could not live without her. His body's need for her was hitting him like a junky deprived of a drug. Causing him to shift about, his legs to straighten and then fold again. He could never go back to the man he was before Sylvia Martin. She was in his blood running forcefully and mercilessly through him. His child – lay nestled in her womb calling out to him as well and again tears fell as he prayed no harm come to his child. He could feel it rising in him again, the need to shout and sob. He ran his hand through his hair, fighting it back.

There was a commotion in the other room. The women were raising their voices for some reason. He was so, out-of-it, so into another world surrounding Sylvia that he had to blink and squint looking towards the door when it came open. Jake was standing there with his mom and Sheila, trying to get him to leave him alone. He lay there for a moment staring back at his little brother – the man. His brother's eyes were red, they were also looking at him, as if pleading.

"Jake leave him alone! He needs to calm down and rest."

"Shawn please… please… mom I'm not here to fight… will you give us just a minute!" Jake growled.

Shawn desperately needed the distraction, "Leave'im! Come in… close the door." He stated, sitting up in the bed. He felt the room spin around him. It was after seven in the evening and he still hadn't eaten a full meal, just a few scoops of potato salad and a bite out of his sandwich.

"If you gone talk to him, then you can eat, and you gonna this time! I been patient with you so far, but don't have me to start going off on you up in here! Jake… upset him, and its me and you baby!" Sheila threatened, making Shawn smile again.

She looked at him and had to turn away before a tear came to her eye. He looked like shit. Something about seeing a man like that breaking down worked her up like nothing else. She turned from the room closing the door, heading for the kitchen.

 

"Let's fix him a plate mama Micky… 'cause his ass gone eat if I have to hold'im down and shovel that shit in myself, and I'll do it too goddammit."

Gert started grinning. "Girl… if I only had one more son…"

"Naaaw mama Micky, I got my good man. He at home now taking care of ours. Although I got to get my butt home, I called him though – told him what's going on, that I'd be leaving tomorrow for home."

"Well believe me… we appreciate everything. I feel so bad – sometimes you just never know which way to go with things like this. As we told Shawn when we first got here, we knew all about it. Sylvia told us and now she's out there somewhere – alone. She should have come by the house or – oooh I don't know. I'm gone give her a piece of my mind. Its not fair on us! When you know you have people who love you – will be worried about you – you have a responsibility to them!"

"I'm wit' you mama Micky, she gone hear it from me too! You better believe it. Well I can tell you now…" Sheila began as she fixed Shawn's plate. She made a big pot of delicious beef stroganoff, packed full of mushrooms, green onions, garlic, in an incredible gravy, cooking the large cubes of sirloin steak until moist and tender to go over homemade noodles, and broccoli. She made enough for everyone, Mundo and Crystal had already eaten, Gert had a small plate of it as well Shanna, both of them complimenting her. She piled Shawn's plate high, then put two nice size squares of corn bread on the side for him. "… hang on, let me take this to him." She said to mother and daughter, who both looked at each other smiling.

"Your brother know he can draw some women on his side can't he." Gert commented to Shanna, who nodded smiling. "I just hope Sylvia comes back soon, or at least calls."

"All right Shawn…" Sheila started, walking through the door with the plate. "I want it all gone… and not upside the wall! Black folks don't throw no goddamn food! You bet not throw this, and there better not be a crumb left!" She fussed, and then to Jake, "Jake – you eat yet?" Jake was leaning against the wall when she walked the plate in passed him. His eyes got big.

"Not really." He admitted with his mouth watering.

"I'll make you a plate next then, but you gone come get yours – 'cause I'm here for this man here – right now."

"No problem, I'll come and get it." He returned watching as Shawn took the plate and pulled the dinner tray from the corner by their bed, removing the collected honeymoon brochures they'd been going over from it to set his plate down.

Jake and Sheila could hear his stomach growl.

"Thank you Sheila… this looks fantastic." Shawn complimented in subdued tones.

"You better believe it is. My husband would be jealous of yo'ass right now, hell I ain't cooked him this in I don't know when." She smiled watching him from the door, he dug right in, his hunger forcing him to eat. She closed the door and went back out to the women, "Well he eatin' at least… now what was I saying?"

"We were talking about Sylvia… where she might be." Gert reminded her.

"Oh yeah… I can tell you now. She first gonna go it alone. She gone be by herself, thinking. Then… she gone drop in on somebody – the question is who? I got my theory on that too." She said, grabbing a plate to fix for Jake.

"Who do you think?"

"I got a feeling, she end up with her daddy. Because if it were me… I'd want my father right now."

"Her father? I thought he was dead or something? Why didn't she invite him to her wedding?"

"Naaaw he ain't dead. Just gone. Left her mama when they were all small. I think Sylvia may have been four or five when he left."

Sheila called Jake out to get his plate that was as piled high as his brother's. He smiled, thanked Sheila and went back to the room where his brother was. He sat on the bed next to him, holding his plate in his large hand, and digging in. They were quiet aside from the sound of them enjoying the meal prepared. Halfway through it, Sheila entered quietly with a tall glass of Pepsi on ice for each of them. Because they were eating, she didn't say a word, just sat the drinks on the tray and left again.

Both reached for them at the same time, drinking the beverage down midway. The food was delicious and the drink was right with it.

They sat the drinks down, Shawn went back to eating, Jake paused.

"I'm – so sorry… for everything. Everything I've ever – done to you. I – um – when you left Shawn… ran off to California… I know it was partly my fault. I um, I missed you Shawn… when you left. I missed you. I wanted you to come home, so bad." He stopped, trying to get over letting his own feelings out. "I – I can just imagine… what you're feeling right now. If what I felt when you left is only a small fraction of what you're feeling now, you're hurting. You're hurting bad."

Shawn sat with his fork in suspension on the way to his mouth. He lowered it and looked at his brother's profile. He felt his eyes water up again as Jake tried to cover it over by putting more food into his mouth and chewing. He watched his brother's eyes fill with tears and drop. Stunned. Shocked. Amazed. He hadn't a clue. Right then, sitting there – he realized he didn't really know Jake. Not this Jake. All Shawn could do was stare and wonder what had happened to them? He realized right then, that he'd been shrouded in so much of his own pain, confusion and resentments, that he'd missed entirely what his brother wanted from him – needed from him. Problem was, he just didn't have it to give back when they were young. He had been too young himself to know how to handle his lot in life. As the oldest with all that was expected of him, which included doing everything perfect. Shawn looked away. He couldn't say anything, didn't know what to say. Right then, for the first time, he realized that Jake loved him. Had always loved him. They ate on for a few more minutes, until he almost cleaned his plate.

"I'm stuffed." Jake was the first to admit it.

"Me too." Shawn agreed.

They looked at each other's plate, there was still food on it, a half of cornbread square, noodles and a bit of meat.

"I ate more than you did." Jake noted.

"Eat some of mine." Shawn pleaded.

"Nooo, I didn't finish mine." Jake pointed out.

"Here, quick, put the rest down the toilet." Shawn passed him his plate.

"What if she comes in and catches me!" Jake grabbed it to stand up.

"Hurry up! Standing there talking about it!" Shawn grinned.

"Go stand by the door Shawn… look out for me!"

"Nooo, I hurt bad enough now – you think I wanna be wrestling with her – hell with that! Just hurry… you could be done by now."

Jake rushed into the bathroom, scrapped their plates into the toilet and flushed it. Then rushed back into the room and sat the plates stacked on top of each other on the tray. No sooner had he sat down than Sheila and Shanna entered the room to check on them.

"Oh good! Look… they ate all of it." Shanna praised them.

"Em hm… did ya'll know, that I got four sons?" Sheila asked with a suspicious eye, her ample hip cocked to the side with her hand on it.

Shawn and Jake both sat up straight with their one good eye wide, the other one trying to be, black and blue as it was, on opposite sides of their face – they were a mess.

"Em hm, that's right. Four sons, and out of the four… one like you… the other like you. So now, am I gonna walk over to that bathroom and look in the toilet and see something that should not be?" She asked looking from one to the other.

They both gulped, eyes grew wider, and at the same time they pointed at each other, "He told me to pour it down the toilet!" Jake ratted.

"I told him to take it in the kitchen, have you put it away for later… he said he would just dump it in the toilet." Shawn lied.

"I did not! He ask me to eat his! I ate all mine! He told me to dump his in the toilet!" Jake defended

"I ate all mine! His got dumped in the toilet!"

"And how much got dumped in the toilet?!" Sheila demanded.

"Some of his! I ate all mine!" They said the exact words, at the same time pointing at each other.

"Who you gonna believe? Me… or him?" Shawn blustered pointing at Jake.

"Mama Micky… I'm gone kill your boys!" Sheila yelled, grabbing their plates up as they grinned leaning back away from her as if she would strike at any moment. Sheila shook her head laughing. "Ya'll know you crazy! Was it good?" She asked.

"I loved every bit of it Sheila… there wasn't much left on my plate or his… honestly." Shawn praised her and let her know the truth.

"I believe – you should open a restaurant." Jake added.

"I thought it was restaurant worthy." Shanna added picking up their empty glasses and following Sheila out of the room.

Shawn and Jake looked at each and started laughing. Shawn shifted back on the bed to lean against the headboard. Propping one leg up to lay his arm across it as Jake lay back on the bed stuffed. They were quiet again, until Jake spoke his thought out loud.

"Wow – is this bed comfortable."

"Yes… I know… better be the last time I see your ass in it too!" Shawn warned, fighting back a slight grin.

Jake took it serious.

"I never had a chance with her Shawn. Not a snowballs chance in hell. She – was so fiery and … fierce and …dead set – no way! You know how I always got them Shawn? They showed this little twinkle of being curious… like they wanted to compare us. It was just enough to let me know, if I pushed just a bit, they'd let me in. You know what… there was not even – a teeny – tiny bit of curiosity in her eyes. None. I was stunned if I'm going to be totally honest. Stunned. And um… it floored me. I went last week on a delivery, did a lot of thinking… one of the things was, how nice my life would have been… had there been someone like her for me. She's a – very desirable woman… your Sylvia… you don't know how lucky you are."

"Oh – yes I do. I know… more now than ever – I know. Trust me my brother, I had no plans to walk away and leave her to you. None at all… just so you know."

"I'm glad to hear it, because you would have been a fool too."

"I haven't lived this long to turn out to be that kind of fool. You – you gonna tell me there have been no women who have loved you? Would have stood by you?" Shawn asked.

"Probably, it didn't matter. If you remember, a couple of them claimed to be in love with you… yet, look what they let me do. Fuck that. I don't want a woman I can take from another man, I would always be worried that someone could take her from me."

They were quiet… both too sore to be angry, or to argue… they were ready to talk, they needed to finally hear each other.

"How do I know I can trust you from now on with Sylvia?" Shawn asked.

Jake sat up and looked at his brother.

"Because I need you – my brother… a whole lot more than I'll ever need your wife. She's in love with you Shawn. That one – is for you, mind, heart and soul – every bit. And – I for one, am glad… it took a knock up side my head to realize it – but – I don't want us to fight… not anymore. My brother – I, more than anyone knows – that you deserve – Sylvia McPherson. She – is – yours."

Shawn sat in disbelief at what he was hearing, again… he was so stunned by it he didn't know what to say. The only thing that came to mind, was that what he was feeling, "Then … how could she leave me?" Shawn's hand was in his hair.

"Have you tried her cell phone?" Jake asked.

"Yes… of course. I've emailed her at her Yahoo account and this account, because she can check it from anywhere."

"You leave her a message when you phoned?"

"Yes."

"Keep leaving her messages Shawn, one after another… don't stop. Keep sending her emails, one after another, don't stop."

"You don't have to tell me that! I have every intention of doing that and now, I have to leave and check on Deidre… I can't believe this is happening."

"How long are you going to be gone?" Jake asked.

"I don't know, a few days maybe… not sure. Not too long… I have to find my wife. If I only knew that she was alright. If she would just call to say, don't worry I'm fine."

"Would that relieve your mind?"

"Fuck no! I'd keep her ass on the line and have the number traced! Then – drag her ass back home, kicking and screaming if necessary… but she'd be right here!"

Jake shook his head laughing, "My brother – you are a caveman sometimes." He sighed, grinning at the visual imagine of that and said, "I'll look for her while you're gone and continue on after you come back. I'm responsible for this, so I'm with you in finding her. Also, I think you need to keep busy. I think we should build her home and finish this bed and breakfast you guys were going on about… if it was me… that's what I'd do. This way, when she did return, I'd have something to show her."

Shawn stared at him a while, and then smiled.

"Can I depend on that? Are you really volunteering your back for it?"

"You damn right you can, it's the least I can do… if you want… the moment you step back off the plane… we can start. Which one will it be?"

"You think we can do both at the same time?" Shawn asked.

"It might as well be done! Matter of fact, give me the plans for it, and I'll get moving on it. I'll come here straight after work, and work until late. The bed and breakfast is easy. As for the house, I'm willing to bet that even Derrick would come up on the weekends to help with that. Also, there are guys that work with me that need some cash, you'd come off a lot cheaper paying them, but the work will be done right – or I wouldn't even bring them up. Two are starting a business and they need a portfolio of homes they've done. So to make sure they have a strong reference, they'd help you turn that house out."

"My brother… I'm gonna hold you to that. I have the plans for the bed and breakfast already drawn up. Planning and building permission has been granted as well, so it can begin."

"I'm ready… you just tell me what you want me to do."

Shawn smiled, staring at him a moment, then something occurred to him, "By the way, you went home with the red dress last night – right? What's going on there?"

Jake whistled. "Oooh – that red dress! Was that a sight or not? You see her dance?"

"Damn right I did! I'll be photographing her one day… I just have to. So tell me… what happened?" Shawn's curiosity was getting the best of him.

"She's just a baby… only twenty-eight years old."

"If that's the case, you try to change them diapers?"

Jake threw his head back, his laughter deep and loud.

"Baby my ass! Granted, twenty-eight is young… but she's a woman… all grown up… and I do mean… ALL grown up." He added.

Jake blushed, Shawn caught it. "What is that all about… my comment bother you?"

"No… of course."

"Bullshit! You sleep with her?"

"No I did not… too goddamn drunk! She had to pay someone to carry my ass inside her house."

"WHAT?!" Shawn started laughing.

"Yes… two hundred dollars!"

"Hell! I would have left your ass outside first!"

"That's what I said."

"That's beside the point… you like her?"

"What's not to like… she's got it all, including our mother foaming at the mouth for me to march down the aisle with her."

"What's wrong with that?"

"She's not my type."

"Ah – as in beautiful."

"What's that suppose to mean?" Jake asked.

"Come on, let's face it… the women you've dated, almost all were older than you, and um, how do I say this, better to look at following a black out, no moon and drunk as hell!"

Jake started laughing, "Fuck you Shawn!" Shawn joined him laughing, "By the way, half were yours!" Jake reminded him.

"My point exactly, so… you won't get serious with anyone you can take off someone else, and those that you dated that weren't from someone else were – only too grateful for your attention, let's put it that way. Little brother, my point is this, she's not your type because she's beautiful! You don't like competition. You want a woman who is always kissing your ass to keep you and you know… that one… doesn't have to. That's why she's not your type!"

"Come on Shawn… no man in his right mind would marry her! Look at her! I won't be walking around with my guts tied in a knot over her. I'd have to pack a loaded gun! Every time I'd turn around, there'd be someone else in her face, trying to come on to her. You don't know about this, but I met her earlier at Kwik Trip. Shawn, every man in the store and out on the pumps had their jaws locked open and their necks twisted like a cork screw! And that fucking dress of hers! That goddamn red dress! That sonofabitch would have to be torched! No way in hell she and I would be together with that red dress in her possession. For that matter, any other fucking thing in that closet of hers that fits her ass that way! Also, let's face it, she's black! I've seen a few white guys with a black woman, and they're not all that easy to handle!" Jake went from getting mad about the dress to considering what he'd be up against.

Shawn was fighting back a grin. "You chicken shit! *Buk buk buk burkaaah burkaaah!*" He teased making chicken sounds.

"Chicken shit my ass! She's black!…" He laid out one finger, "…she's beautiful!…" He laid out the second finger. "…she's young!" He laid out the third finger.

"And she'll tell you to kiss her ass!" Shawn provided the fourth.

"Exactly… I can't deal with no woman like that!"

"Trust me my brother, when a woman like that says, 'Kiss my ass!' that's exactly what you do. I guarantee you, she won't throw that one at you too much."

Jake laughed. "Now you got me thinking."

"Hey… it's your life, you do what the hell you want with it." Shawn laughed.

"Nooo no no no… I'd have to keep her ass pregnant! Get her ass fat – then… maybe I could relax with her. Naw! Forget that! No way… besides, you should see her house. She's got fancy taste that one! Expensive taste! Believe me, she'll cost a bit to keep up. Right now, women give me money… with her, I'd be broke all the time!"

"But happy."

"I don't know about that… I don't know her do I? How do I know I can even trust her? Who's to say who can make who happy? I'm happy right now."

"If you say so… if you say so."

"You bet I say so… I mean, look at you. Miserable as hell… crazy in love, and wife's gone."

"Because of your ass!"

"True… but… it's not good for the heart to love someone the way you two love each other. Too stressful."

"Maybe so my brother… but – I wouldn't pass up the opportunity of my Sylvia for anything in the world. I'll take it, stress and all… because – I can't…" Shawn looked down, feeling himself on the verge of tears again. He couldn't talk, his jaw was clenched, he had his face covered looking into his lap. He couldn't stop them, they welled up and dropped onto his cheeks.

Jake looked away, quiet, hurting for him.

"I swear to you Shawn… we'll find her. I won't rest until we do."

"And we're leaving first thing in the morning. I believe I heard mother saying she was able to book a flight for first thing, so I have to be up early. Shanna is packing Angela some clothes up… hey… you know what… Deidre was supposed to have sent her things here… they never arrived… Sylvia called and they said it could take up to 4 weeks. I guess I'll have Mundo and Crystal look out for it. But – while I'm gone… the house will be empty – can you please… start on it? I'll show you the plans. I'd much rather you do that, than look for Sylvia – I'll handle that."

"You got it, come on… show me, let's get this started." They both rose and left the room, walked out to hear the women around the corner in Angela's room or Sylvia's office room. They went to the basement, Jake looking around complimenting the homes layout. Shawn went into his temporary studio and pulled out the plans for the bed and breakfast, going over them with Jake. He explained his idea on how the kitchen was to be changed over while showing the draft of it he'd drawn… and the extension that would be built off the back of the garage for Sylvia's office connecting to the kitchen door. They went up stairs with the building plans, Shawn showing what he meant, they then went out the kitchen door, and into the garage where all of the lumber, wiring, switch boxes, plumbing, new doors, windows, their frames and bricks sat waiting.

 

An hour later, Jake left with a key to the door to get in. He was hyped, he wouldn't work on this after work… he had time coming to him, he was taking it now. His boss might not like it, but he had eight weeks racked up, he was taking six of them. Running through his head was all the things that needed to get done. He would see it done in no time. He would get a hold of Eddie… with him owing him one and needing the experience for his business they would have the house done over for the bed and breakfast before Shawn returned. Then all that would be left would be the decorating of it by Shanna. That way when Shawn returned, they could begin on the house. That… he was determined to help him get done before he went back to work. Yep… he was doing this. His mind immediately went to Sylvia, "I don't know where you are… but when we're done, you'll be home – I hope so, because my brother has suffered enough… enough now Sylvia… enough." He thought as he drove home. His cell phone rang.

"Hello?" He decided he better answer it since he made too much a habit of ignoring it.

"Finally – where've you been? I've been trying to reach you to let you know that I was back." Doris started.

"Oh… I've been really busy. Hey… I'm going to be taking off work a few weeks. Can I get two hundred dollars off you?" Jake asked without blinking.

"For what Jake?"

"It'll be a gift to Shawn and Sylvia. I'm going to be helping them get their bed and breakfast done, I want to add a few touches while he's gone. It's a long story. You gonna give it to me or not?"

"Well… you coming by?" She asked.

"Yeah… I'll come by. You gonna have the money?"

"Yeah… sure… I missed you. You miss me?" She waited, didn't hear anything. Finally she realized he'd clicked off without even saying goodbye. She clicked the button off, at least he was coming over.

Jake finally clicked the phone off, not willing to get into that. How could he say he missed her when he hadn't even thought about her until he heard her voice. He smiled, thinking about Vivian. Now, he could give her the eighty back that came out of her pocket for him, and get his own one twenty back as well. "Hell… life is good… why mess up a good thing?" He grinned as he drove on to Doris', anxious to get the money, which would be his excuse for driving back to Chicago to pay Vivian back. On top of picking her brain for the possible whereabouts of Sylvia. He wasn't about to read anything into the sensation he was feeling at the prospect of seeing her again. It was just to pay her back and get her help, that was all.

Twenty minutes later, he pulled into Doris' driveway, and was at her door. She clicked on her porch light and saw his face.

"Oh my goodness! You've been fighting!"

"Trust me… I know." He answered coming inside.

"What happened?!"

"Shawn and I had a big fight over Sylvia."

"What?! You've got some nerve Jacob Patrick McPherson! Asking me for money while you've been fighting over your brother's wife! They did get married didn't they?!"

"Of course they did. We only fought over a misunderstanding… Shawn and I are fine now. I'm going to be helping him do some things to his house and the other home, that's why I'm taking off work to help get things done. There's nothing between Sylvia and I – never has been… never will be. You said you missed me, and this is the way you show it?" He poured on the charm, he had to play his role to get that money.

"You heard me! You rotten asshole!" She accused.

"Only as I was clicking the phone off." He lied. "Besides, I was on my way. Now… I'm here – you really wanna argue? Or… something else, like… showing how much you missed me?" He asked. All was forgotten and Doris was only too eager to show him. An hour later, a bit passed nine, Jake sat up to head for the bathroom. "I hate to fuck and go, but – can I get that money?" He asked going to jump in her shower.

"JAKE! The way you talk to me sometimes! You got no respect!"

"Aye you know me… just tellin' you like it is… I'm in a hurry – get that money."

"You need it now?" She yawned.

"Yeah… won't be staying over tonight – gotta make another run out of town."

"Why? Where? You just got back from one."

"Can't be helped." He stated stepping in under the water spray. Eager to get on the road for Chicago, he liked the idea of showing up late… she'd be forced to let him stay the night, after the long drive to bring her money back to her. Besides, he was curious to see what went on in the evenings there with her, to see if there was anyone over, he wasn't going to worry about if someone was there, if they were… he'd have to observe what exactly was going on. Only for future reference of course, not because he was going to get anything started with her, he just wanted to know where she was as far as relationships were concerned.

Doris was in the bathroom washing up at the sink. "I was so looking forward to you staying with me tonight." She whined.

"I always stay with you. I can't this time… maybe next time."

"I was thinking… maybe – we could just move in together, maybe get a house Jake and you could stop going back and forth." She suggested hopefully.

"Don't start that Doris. You know I have my own place and will keep it. If you need me, I always come… be happy for that. Besides, what we have is fine just the way it is."

"As long as we've been seeing each other, I thought we could at least move in and live together. Its not like I'm asking you to marry me." She said honestly.

Jake stepped from the shower, grabbing a towel to dry off, still sore as could be, especially his back. He turned to look at it in her large bath mirror. Across his shoulder blades the skid burns were scabbing up and tender.

"Oh my goodness… that looks bad Jake." Doris stood looking at it in the mirror as well.

"Hurts like hell. It'll heal… anyway, get that money out, I have to run." He pushed drying off in a hurry now to get on the road.

"What about what I said?" She asked going to her purse as he dressed.

"We'll have to talk about it some other time. I can't tonight, I have a bit of a drive ahead of me."

"Where you going?"

"Chicago… gotta make a delivery there." He bit into his lip to keep from grinning, his mind on the surprised look that would be on Vivian's face when he showed up.

"How long you gonna be gone?"

"Not long… I have to get back here and get started on Shawn and Sylvia's bed and breakfast… so I'll be back sometime tomorrow evening I imagine."

She handed him the money. "That all you need?"

"Yeah… that's fine. Hey… your uncle still own that car lot in Madison?"

"Yeah – why?"

"Just wondering… I get sick of driving that truck around all the time. I'm giving some thought to getting a car. Something nice… I don't know. Maybe a Buick, something new like a Park Avenue or LaSabre… those are really nice. Just thinking about it… that's all. I remember you saying that he can get company cars with low mileage on them for pretty cheap." He mentioned tying his boots.

"How much you talking?" She asked as he stood.

He came up to her, dressed and ready to go. "How much can you afford?" He clicked his tongue and winked at her, kissed her forehead and headed out the door.

"If you think you're going to get a car out of me Jake, you've got another think coming!" She yelled out the door at him as he climbed into his truck. He was still smiling at her, threw her a kiss and backed out of her drive. He went by his place, changed into something nice, packed a little overnight bag with a pair of jeans, a nice knit sweater, his toothbrush and other needed toiletries. He was back in his truck and pointing it towards the interstate and heading for Chicago again. Reaching for his tapes, his popped his music mix tape, and waited for the song to come around. 'Brother Louie by Stories… "She was black, as the night; Louie was whiter than white…" Jake jumped on the I90-94 and put the peddle to the metal.

 

---

Chapter 81

Shawn's mom and Shanna left shortly after Jake. They needed to get packed and ready to go first thing. They'd already called Derrick for him, letting Meribel know what was going on and that they would be there around eight-twenty to get Angela, because their flight was at nine-thirty-seven. The kids had come from across the road talking to Sheila, and Mundo searched out Shawn in the basement, asking him could he use his truck for a set he could do.

"You know I'll be gone for a few days to LA to check on Angela's mother, so… don't go nuts and wreck the truck. I'm going to have to see about getting you something to drive when I get back here."

"I promise papah-Shawn – I ain't gone be messin' aroun' man. I'll just use it for that, then back here. I uh… used it last night." He admitted.

"Yes… I know." Shawn looked at him with the eyes of a father, chastising his son without words.

"I was careful."

"You didn't ask."

Mundo looked down at the floor, Shawn almost expected him to use his toe to pick at an invisible gum glob. "My friends showed up at the reception talkin' 'bout slammin' some jams at this party, make a little money."

"Did you?"

"Sho'nuff – left up out'ah there wit' a hun'ned'fi'ty – and – tips. It was live."

"I see. Well, be careful. Right now, I have insurance coverage for whomever drives the truck. We will be looking into some wheels for you, can you carry a car note?"

"I can swing up to two a mont'." He agreed.

"Don't forget insurance, at the very least, liability."

"I can swing it."

"Okay… well, when I return, we'll look for one." Shawn was quiet a moment and then looked at Mundo, "You all would tell me… if your mother called wouldn't you? You wouldn't keep that from me would you?" Shawn asked softly.

Mundo shifted uncomfortable… then went over and closed Shawn's office door, he turned back to look at Shawn, because of the look on his face, Shawn knew what to expect.

"She called two hours ago." Mundo whispered softly. Shawn's eyes got big. "What?" He blasted him. Mundo put his finger to his lips, signalling that he keep it low.

"She only spoke for a quick minute to Crystal and me. To say she was alright, and ask if we were alright here. I didn't wanna tell you because she wouldn't say where she was. She told us not to say anything. But man… I can't have you here worried like this. She alright – right now."

"What did she say? Did she say when she was coming home? Anything?" Shawn asked with his heart pounding.

"I told her you were going crazy worried about her. That all you wanted was for her to come home so you could talk. I told her."

"What'd she say?"

"She just got quiet… I could tell she was crying. I said to her, mama just come home… everything gonna be alright, Shawn don't blame you for nothing… just come home. She hung up."

Shawn was sitting at the desk, trying to get his work together for book one and two for the James' – all he had to work on was book three… but he wanted to deliver what was done there so they could get the first book launched and then later on the second, he was certain they'd be pleased. So far, he was a head of schedule. He burned all of the necessary graphics to disk, and the layered novel cover images for Photoshop that would be used for book one and two. The original paintings for it would be added to their other collections on the wall at the publishing house – property belonging to them. They were already enclosed in the carrier he used to transport them. Hearing this from Mundo was working on him. He couldn't help but wonder if she ever planned on coming home? He prayed that she wasn't contemplating giving up on their marriage before it had even begun.

"You alright?" Mundo asked.

"Yeah… I love your mother Mundo… I love her. Why won't she just come home?"

"My mother trips too hard on righteousness man. Everything with her got to be just so! She don't like to be cast in the light of reproach or shame – because she get high on being right… know what I'm sayin'? Doin' everything… properly – so she can walk with her head high. Its like, big sins cannot be found with her. Won't steal, won't deal in anything crooked or illegal, don't like to cuss… but will if you get her ass mad enough…" They both started laughing.

"I know that's true." Shawn vouched for that one.

"…she just… she think too hard. Examines shit and tries to do everything right, know what I'm sayin'? She can't take it if she fails and causes something like what happened between you and Jake. I know my mama man, ain't no way she would'ah done anything with him… no way."

Shawn sat for a moment stroking his beard, rubbing his eyes and trying to once again get a grip of himself. "I have to find her… I have to. You don't think… she'll… try to divorce me do you?"

"No!"

"How can you say that? She left."

"Trust me on this… that's the last thing she gone do. My mama love you man… I know she do. She proud to be your wife – that's why she taking all this shit so hard. Its like, she's punishing herself – know what I mean?"

Shawn sat back in his chair. "But she's killing me in the process. I can't stand her not being here. I can't stand it."

"I know we not our mother, but we here for you papah-Shawn… you not alone."

Shawn smiled and stood up and hugged Mundo… a really hard hug.

"I thank God for that… believe me I do."

They walked back up the stairs, Crystal was about to come down, and met them coming up.

"You alright papah-Shawn?" She asked. He pulled her to him for a hug right away. "Yeah, I'm okay. Hey…" He pulled away from her, "You cut hair don't you?" He asked. She nodded, "You have your clippers across the road?" He asked again. "Yeah, why… you want a haircut?"

"Yeah… I do… come on, I'll walk with you guys across the way."

Sheila was standing back watching them. Admiring the smooth and easy rapport between them, she could see that what Sylvia had here in a man, was right.

"Sheila… you want to walk with us across the road? Crystal's giving me a quick haircut."

"You know what… I'm heading out after you all in the morning… if you don't mind… I'm gone watch a little tv and chill, then hit the sack later." She responded. She would be sleeping in Angela's room.

"I won't be too long." Shawn stated following the kids to the door, after they walked to Sheila giving her a kiss on the cheek and a hug, saying their goodbyes then. Sheila smiled, kissing and hugging them in return as the three left out the kitchen door. She couldn't wait to get a hold of Sylvia… she had every intention of giving her a piece of her mind. Crystal had given her the emergency number Sylvia gave her. She wasn't using her normal mobile phone because she knew that Shawn would be trying to contact her with it, so she turned it off and bought herself another one for Crystal to reach her. Making her promise not to give it to Shawn or anyone. If she did… she would toss it and just email them from then on. So Crystal was battling loyalty to her mother with wanting to share it with Shawn. Sheila had had to just about twist her arm to get the number herself. As she sat there thinking about the three together, she was able to see how those kids were with Shawn. If he wasn't right, they would not be wrapped so tightly around him and worrying about him as much as they were. Crystal was in tears about keeping the number from him. Sheila was mad about that, that Sylvia would put them between them that way. 'Yeah I'm calling yo' ass as soon as I get home. You gone hear from me sista' girl.'

Across the road, Shawn sat in the kitchen with the neck gauze and haircut apron Crystal put on him, now adjusting her clippers. She'd finished beauty school right out of high school, and now attended school for nursing, after being fascinated by the human anatomy from what she learned in the course for becoming a cosmetologist.

"Okay, how you want it papah-Shawn?" She asked with Mundo in attendance.

"You need to hook'im up with some lines, so you should fade it – put that top so he can spike it and shit-…"

Shawn sat laughing, "Don't think so… take it all off Crys'."

"What you mean, take it all off?"

"Down to the quick, military… buzz cut – not quite a quarter of an inch." He instructed.

"All over?" She asked disappointed at the instruction, she couldn't imagine getting rid of his head full of black hair, it was beautiful… she could see trimming and lining it, but a buzz – that she didn't want to do.

"Yeah sweety… I don't wanna be bothered with it."

"Man… papah-Shawn… you gone do that… you need to put a earring in yo'shit! A diamond stud man… come on let her hook you up."

Shawn sat laughing, "Nooo… no piercing." He grinned.

"Come on papah-Shawn – I got the works to do it here. Sometimes my friends call me asking me to do it after hours. I clean it, sterilize the area, I use real gold and its over in a second. You would look hot with a piercing papah-Shawn… if you gone buzz the hair… you need that stud! Shoot, put some shades on, yo' leather, on that motorcycle – …"

"Man – won't his shit be bustin!?! Mama gone be like… Dai-amn and I left his ass – what the hell was I thinkin'!" Mundo cut his sister off, broad and funny in his gestures, making it impossible for Shawn to sit still laughing at him. They were both getting all worked up and excited while Shawn sat shaking his head no. "Nooooo." He kept trying to tell them.

"Okay okay… hold still now… here goes." Crystal warned and began with Mundo watching her every move. Didn't matter she'd been cutting hair for close to two years now, this was Mundo's papah-Shawn – his hero… she had to do it right.

"Would you get yo'ass out the way, I know what I'm doing." She fussed.

"I'm watching yo'ass! That's papah-Shawn… do his shit right!" He warned, then told Shawn, "I got yo'back man… then we gone get that stud in there – cause you got a image to uphold! We fixin'ta' put the boo-yowl on yo'ass -…"

"Oh no we're not…" Shawn repeated. Mundo and Crystal winked at each other grinning.

 

Sheila heard him coming in the kitchen door over an hour later, he clicked on the light where she was sitting and walked in slowly so she could see him, she looked up.

"Well… do I look like a complete idiot or what?" He asked her.

Sheila sat forward and looked at him. For a moment she hadn't a clue as to what he was talking about. The haircut was drastic, really short, leaving him with just a close crop cut, but it fit him, his beard was also trimmed and cleaned up.

"Looks good to me." She stated honestly and he then turned his head so she could see his left ear.

"That." He stated pointing at the flat gold disk plate used to pierce his ear.

"Lo-o-ord! Oh my goodness! Was that your idea or theirs!?" She asked grinning.

"They talk me into it." He chuckled. "I'm regretting it already… what do you think?"

Sheila stood and took a really good look at him. "You know… its nothing I would ever suggest… but – my husband has one. I don't think it looks bad. Matter of fact, once you put a diamond in there… it'll give you that – don't give a damn rakish look. It's workin'… once your eye and lip get right, you be straight."

"You don't think I'm too old for it?"

"Naw… you know what… screw all that! You a independent man takin' care of business – goddammit! You can do what the hell you wanna do! A small little diamond stud, nice and subtle… why the hell not."

"You think Sylvia will like it?"

"Emmm nope!"

"Oh nooo… I'm gettin' rid of it then."

"No you don't! Hell with that! Ha' ass should'nah left! You keep yo' shit – maybe next time she keep her ass at home!" Sheila walked up to him eyeing it and him, "Yeah, I like it. Not everybody can do it – but its workin' for you. Keep it."

"You sure?"

"Yep."

"My family's gonna be laughing at me."

"Let'em laugh! Jealousy baby… its all about jealousy!" Sheila smiled sitting back down. It was close to eleven and they both knew they needed to get to bed.

Shawn went and took a seat on the sofa across from her, pretended to be looking at the t.v., but Sheila could tell there were things on his mind. "Mundo told me she called." He admitted softly. He was sitting forward, his forearms resting on his knees, his hands together, his index finger picking at the cuticle of this thumb. "She didn't even want them to tell me she called… just to let me know she was okay."

She could hear the hurt in his voice, his throat was working, she could see him swallowing back moisture from where she sat, again… she felt awful for him. "She told them that because she was afraid you might be able to press them for more information… so in her mind, if you didn't know she called, you wouldn't pressure them. Don't be hurt – it wasn't to hurt you."

"Why is she staying away… I wasn't bad to her Sheila. I love her so much… I don't know what I did wrong? I don't know what I'm doing wrong. I would give her anything – anything! God knows I would. I mean… yeah, I've made a few stands with her, put my foot down on some things… but – I would never hurt her – abuse her – not ever. I don't understand, how she can say she loves me – but then – can leave me?" He couldn't get his head around it.

"Shawn… she does love you. Seeing you last night, fighting with your brother – upset her really bad. She blaming a lot on herself right now – you read her email – I read the email. I know she loves you. You should have heard her last night all hysterical, crying her eyes out because I took her away because you guys were fighting so bad, I was scared she'd get hurt – but all she wanted to do was get back to you. Shawn… men just don't understand… do you know – when a woman is really in love – deeply in love, the way Sylvia is with you – any small injury to you, hits her too? Do you realize that? Every punch from your brother, she took too. Seeing that, feeling that, going through that – jarred her in a way, that after you said what you did – she probably couldn't breath – it was too much – she left. That don't change the fact that you're her husband and she loves you. That don't change."

Shawn sat with his eyes staring off above the t.v. listening to Sheila, unable to stop more tears from falling, no longer bothering to reach up and wipe them away. He was quiet a moment then finally spoke low, so low Sheila had to turn the t.v. down to hear him. "I saw my brother's hands on her, touching – familiar with her – I just – I just wanted to get him away from her. I was so angry – I felt betrayed and scared all at the same time. I just – wanted to make it all stop right then…" He muttered a cynical chuckle and shook his head. "… she asked me to please, lets just go home Shawn… that's what she said… we'll go home first. I wish now that I had. I should have let her do it… drive us home. Maybe… she would be here now – because – I would have gotten a hold of her, and never let go-…"

"Shawn… sometimes you gotta let go. Sometimes you gotta give a little room… right now – she gone, because she needs some peace and quiet. She told you in her letter – too much violence."

"From who?" He asked. "I know her first husband was an asshole-…"

"Oh honey please, don't compliment him. He don't deserve such nice things being said about him. The shit he put her through! You know he was in the army for about three or four years."

"How did they meet?"

"He was a senior at Gage Park high school and we were sophomore's. Like most of the guys at the school, once they saw Sylvia – they wanted her. Shawn – she was so pretty – so gentle and graceful in her manner. How can I describe her? The rough stuff and whatever crazy talk you hear from her, comes from her being around me. I toughened her ass up. She was always, quiet, thinking, watching people and sticking to me. She was so skinny… and all of a sudden, she had tits and ass…" Sheila started laughing thinking back about her. "She small boned and so it look crazy seeing her with that ass and her boobs… she was so – just – I don't know… the way she was and carried herself, she never wore much make up – just some lip gloss maybe a little white powder around her eyes and some liner and man… the boys wanted her. That goddamn Armundo with his crazy ass set his sights on her, realized that all the boys were going on and on about her, and he set hisself out to get her and did. It wasn't easy… but he did."

"Had she ever dated before him?"

"No… and you the first man after him. You know what… I had a feeling about his ass. He was dating this Puerto Rican chick, dropped her for Sylvia."

"She – was at the reception Sheila… that Puerto Rican girl, Meribel… is now married to my other brother Derrick who gave the first toast."

"Shet'yo mouth! You got to be kidding me?!"

"Yep… their oldest son is by Armundo."

"Say what?! Oh my goodness! You talking about that good looking young man that was talking to Crystal and Mundo for so long?"

"That's him!"

"I knew his ass looked familiar! That motha'fuckin' Armundo aint' shit! You know he got two others in Chicago don't you? And ain't no telling where else! So much stuff was going on, I didn't even realize what I was looking at!"

"Yeah… so its apparent, he's been around."

"Yeah… well he hooked his ass onto Sylvia… almost wrecked our friendship because he didn't like me… 'cause I would tell his ass off! He was pressuring her to go to bed with him, she didn't want to – she always use to say, she was going to stay a virgin till the day she married. That sorry bastard date raped her ass – and just took over her. Showing up at her house all the time, waiting for her after school – and basically – forced her into private places so he could have at her again. Next thing I know, she went from saying she was trying to break it off from him, to saying she loved him. Then she was pregnant." Sheila shook her head.

Shawn sat stunned, listening.

"You know what Shawn… she was not in love with him. She just couldn't get rid of his ass! Once she got pregnant, she convinced herself that she was in love with him."

"How old was she when he got her pregnant?"

"He was already graduated but his ass was up at that school no matter what! He got her pregnant in her senior year, when she graduated, she was pregnant… and not – happy."

"I don't understand… if she didn't love him – why'd she let him go so far with her?"

"Because he railroaded his way in! Wouldn't give her room to breathe! Every move she made… he was right there… taking over – telling her what was next on the agenda."

Shawn sat back and felt a punch to his stomach. Thinking back over their own beginning – without realizing it – he could see that he'd been somewhat guilty of the same thing. He'd wanted her so bad, that he'd overrode what she wanted, he'd rushed her, moved in on her quickly, because he wanted her. His face burned with humiliation to know that like Armundo… he'd gotten her pregnant. He felt ill again. Talking to Sheila… he was starting to see what was wrong with their relationship… to Sylvia – he was doing things that closely resembled and felt like her time with Armundo… he felt sick.

"Keep going… I need to know more." He said, wondering if Sylvia had convinced herself that she was in love with him as well, the same as she had with Armundo.

"Well… the next thing I know, they were talking about getting married. He rushed her off to the court house, talking sweet, giving her so much special care and attention you would have thought her ass was leaking gold. In a blink, they were married – she asked me to be there with her, and even though I didn't agree – I stood by her. He went off to basic training, eight weeks later he returned, told her he found a place near the camp he'd be going through AIT at and packed her up and took off with her. Everything happened so fast, it was like he was afraid for her to think… to breath or else she might discover he was the last person she should be with."

Shawn was leaning back with his face partially covered with his hand, feeling worse and worse as Sheila progressed, to her he looked like he'd slipped off to sleep, but he was wide awake and listening.

"You tired? You ain't going to sleep are you?"

"No… I'm wide awake and listening… go on."

"She'd been there with him a while and I met my husband by then and got married. So I thought it would be nice to visit her, you know… there we were both newly married, I was pregnant too by then, and I talked mine into taking me there to visit them. The first night there, it was kinda okay, but I couldn't help but notice she was different. She wasn't entirely herself and she was being really careful with what she said and how she acted with me there. She was in her fifth month with Crystal – and I could not believe what he did the second night there." Sheila shook her head remembering back to it.

Shawn moved his hand from over his face to look at her. "What happened?" He asked.

"There were six of us there, three couples. They had befriended a couple next door to them, who were there – and we were all sitting on the floor playing Monopoly, the men were drinking and we women were just chilling. I noticed the more Armundo drank, the more obnoxious he became. Touching Sylvia in ways that made her uncomfortable in front of us all, like touching her breast, and saying stuff about the sex they had. She started getting upset, he was sipping a beer, told her to cool down and chill out, then tossed his beer in her face and on her hair because she rolled her eyes at him. I couldn't believe he did that to her. Well she got mad, jumped up yelling at him."

 

The fight…

 

"Why'd you do that!? You wet my hair acting stupid!" Sylvia shouted, leaving the room to go into their bathroom to get a towel to wipe her face and dry the beer from her hair. He followed her in there. "Who you calling stupid? What's up with the attitude… hm? Got a attitude? Hm, need me to adjust it a little… that what you need?" He pressed, pushing at her shoulder as she stood trying to keep quiet… they had company, she didn't want it to escalate. After the third nudge, almost knocking her into the tub, she turned shouting, "CUT IT OUT!!"

"Who you fuckin' yellin' at!? Hm…don't have me knock the fuck out of you up in here… you think I give a fuck about your friend bein' here? Don't have her watch you get yo' ass whipped! Callin' me stupid! Yo'ass stupid!"

"That ain't no lie – for ever marrying you." She knew the moment she said it she shouldn't have, but she couldn't bring herself to bite back the fact, and received the ringing slap to her face for being brave enough to dare it. Immediately her temper got the best of her, screaming she attacked back and shove him with all of her might out of the bathroom. Taken by surprise he hit the floor and slid back. With the apartment being so small, their guest could hear and see it, especially him sliding back on his ass across the floor. Sylvia stood stunned a moment too long, she tried to run out of the bathroom, but he was up in an instant, charging at her like a crazed bull, hit her mid-section like a football tackle and ran with her, slamming her back against the wall so hard, he knocked her through the plaster of it to the inner wall of the bathroom. Screaming and crying, she was slapping and punching at his back and head. She could vaguely hear Sheila screaming at her husband to get him off of her, as well their neighbor.

By the time Armundo stepped back and dropped her back to her feet, she was all arms and nails flying at him, scratching and kicking. Angry beyond caring about anything. He tried to catch her arms, and swung her onto the bed, leaping on it to straddle her, yelling in her face, "CALM YOUR ASS DOWN!!! YOU GONE LOSE THIS BABY – NOW STOP IT DAMMIT!!!"

"I HOPE I DO!!! I DON'T WANT SHIT FROM YOU – I HATE YOU!!! GET OFF MEEEEE!!!" Sylvia screamed as he pinned her arms down, breathing hard, looking down into her face.

"GET OFF HER MAN… GET YO' MOTHA'FUCKIN' ASS OFF HER!!!" Dennis, Sheila's husband shouted pulling him off of her.

"Man you better get yo' fuckin' hands off of me, don't fuckin' touch me! She the one acting a fucking fool!" Armundo shouted turned to Dennis and Charles, his neighbor.

"Man how you gone be?! Hittin' yo' pregnant wife! What kind of shit is that?! You ain't shit man… you ain't shit! Hit me motha'fucka! Hit me!" Dennis demanded.

"Get the fuck out of my house! Get yo' lil'fat wife – and skip the fuck up-…"

 

Sheila shook her head, "Dennis was on the verge of beating the hell out of him, but Charles intervened, and Sylvia was so upset, we just left. Their friends next door left with us, and the wife told me that almost every weekend, he'd get drunk and come home acting crazy. She could hear them fighting through the wall. I called her twice, trying to talk to her, but no one answered the phone. He of course, kissed her ass – said all the, "I'm sorry this – I'm sorry that… made up for it some how and – she stayed."

"Why didn't she just leave him?" Shawn asked with his heart pounding, the images in his mind stirring his system. When she told him stories about Armundo, he hadn't a clue of just had bad it had been. To treat her like that when she was pregnant with Crystal, his heart hurt for them both, the mother and the unborn child. It also helped him to understand Crystal's inner rage. He would have loved being around when this was going on, even if he couldn't have taken Sylvia from him, he would have stalked and dogged him until he left her himself – especially after one ass kicking following another. Sheila's answer to his question brought him back to attention.

"Because she felt she had no where to go. She couldn't go home to her mother because at the time, they didn't get along. So she stayed where she was. Like I said, Sylvia will not ask for help from anyone… she'll just deal with it."

"So what you're telling me is that he's beat her up often." Shawn stated.

"She never talked to you about this stuff?" Sheila asked.

"You know what… most of the time she spoke, it was about her and the kids, what they had to go through. She told me he was a trip and that they use to fight, but she never went into detail. She never really went into depth on how really bad he was."

"You know why… the man is her baby's daddy, and he's dead. She ain't gone say too much about how bad he was. She won't do it. But I'm telling you, he was bad. Sylvia always made excuses for him. Saying it was only when he drank that he was really mean to her, but when the bastard was sober, he was cheatin' on her! Anyway… she went from home with her mama, to him. Considering when he died… I don't think she had enough time between him and you to fully recover. So – when you get angry and lose your temper, and show signs of violence, you put her back into the days of Armundo… whether you mean to or not."

"I'm not like him Sheila… I can't even begin to imagine hitting her knowing she's pregnant with my child. Hell – not pregnant I can't imagine using my strength, my fist to hit her. What is it in a man, that would make him even bother with hitting a woman? There's no fight, or honor, or dignity in bullying someone you know hasn't the strength to stand against you. That is not the reason God made a woman… my father… would spit in my face, were he to hear that I'd laid my hands on a woman in violence, followed by knocking the hell out of me." He fell silent thinking about his father. About his past as well, because he knew, that in the case of his porn past… his father would go ballistic over it. That as well was a form of abuse to him, and thinking back to it, made Shawn feel even worse. He'd been young and out to prove something to himself – yet, knew that he was guilty of a type of abuse that was used to entertain peoples baser needs, perversions meant to generate money. He remembered back to some women, who may have been legal age, but were inexperienced. They'd been made high on drugs, in order to be able to take what he and Jesse often were directed to do to them.

He shook the thoughts sitting forward.

"I don't know what I'm gonna do Sheila." He admitted. "I don't know how to make it right. The last thing I want, is anything about me, reminding her of him. I – I think – I'm probably guilty of doing the same thing with her… kind of – pushing – to make it happen."

"Look… all men are similar when they want a woman… some are mature and go about getting them one way, some aren't so mature on how they go about it … so regardless of your method, whatever there is about you that's like him… is small and slight – at some point, the difference in you two splits off into separate directions. Don't be sitting here comparing yourself to him. Sylvia needs to accept you for you. She needs to break off that part of her past and see the man she has now. She needs to deal with you. Yeah… you could stand to tone down on that temper some… but don't change too much. 'Cause I happen to think – you one helluva man! I've watched you with your daughter, with your mother – with Sylvia and her kids. No… I'm telling you… don't change. Calm down a bit – don't let yourself get so worked up you can't think… but… stay as you are. Sylvia ain't stupid… she knows what you are. She just needs to get a grip on how to deal with a man like you. The one she had before you, has screwed it up for you… she love you though… she love you… you just hang in there."

 

 

Chicago…

 

With a cynical tired look on her face, Vivian held the phone to her ear with one hand, and the remote in the other flipping through channels as she sat on her sofa at one thirty in the morning, unable to sleep. Laek Chan was on at the hospital, calling her during his breaks, trying to talk her into letting him back into her life. She glanced over at the three vases of roses, three dozens of red, yellow and pink roses. It was the delivery of them that woke her up at six thirty that evening. Stunned she'd rose from the couch bleary eyed trying to get her senses back, to open the door finding a floral delivery person on the door step with the roses already arranged in their vases.

After signing for them, putting them on her dinning room table, she held her breath, hoping so much that they'd come from Jake. The moment she saw the first card, she knew better and berated herself for being ridiculous. Even if he were slightly interested in her, there would be no way he could afford to send her three dozens of roses cut, thorns removed and arranged in the expensive vases they sat in.

"Why don't you wish me to come over? Another man in your life already?"

"Don't worry about what's going on in my life… it is no longer any of your concern."

"I told you… I'm leaving her… I want you."

"You have problems then Dr. Chan… my advice to you, is to hold on to your sure thing… because you and I aren't happening. Not ever again, done, dead and over with as far as I'm concerned." Vivian repeated again too many times.

"You have another man… who is he?" Chan asked, standing in the doctors lounge in between emergency patients.

"There is no man… and if there was – that is none of your concern… don't you have a patient to see?"

"Let me come by there on my lunch… I miss you, making love to you."

"Don't even think about-…" Vivian was about to say something more when a knock sounded at her door, then a moment later, the doorbell. She stopped what she was saying staring in disbelief, wondering who would be at her door at this time of night. She stood from the sofa and walked to her window and peaked out to receive the shock of her life. Sitting in her drive was Jake's truck!

She gasped, "Oh my god!"

"What? What is it? What's going on there? Who knocked at your door? I heard your doorbell!" Chan fumed.

"I have to go." Vivian blurted with her heart hammering in her chest to the point it disturbed her breathing.

"Who is there? I want to know who is there?!" Chan demanded.

Vivian went to the door, trying to calm herself, holding the phone to her chest her heart was beating so crazy. "Who is it?" She asked, although she knew.

"Umm, Jake… I ah… I have something for you." He returned. He couldn't believe it… he was nervous, his palms were sweaty.

"Jake!? Do you know its past one in the morning?" Vivian asked through the door looking at herself in the hall mirror. Thanking God she'd jumped in the shower after waking up. Even though she had no plans to go anywhere, she'd fixed herself up a bit for around the house because she never knew who might drop in. For once, she was over the moon glad that she did that kind of thing.

"Who is Jake?! What is going on there?! Vivian! Vivian!" Chan hissed into his cell phone, charging down the hospital corridor heading for the men's room for a place of privacy.

"Yes I realize that… I've driven all this way, you gonna make me stand out here and talk to you through your door?" He asked smoothly.

Taking several deep breaths to ready herself, Vivian flicked on her porch light, then unlocked her door and opened it. The moment she looked up at him standing there, she felt her head grow light. By sheer force, she put on a face of indifference. Nevertheless, she could not deny the effect he had on her, but there was nothing that said he needed to know that. Also lingering within, flying about her stomach on gladdened wings, was a song bird of joy… something made him need to come back. Vivian knew that was a good sign.

Looking down into her brown eyes, Jake felt a thrill of excitement shoot clean through him. He smiled that beguiling wicked smile, the notorious McPherson grin was in place as he leaned against the door at ease, wearing a blue jean jacket, nice plaid tartan shirt, new jeans and his cowboy boots, and to top it off, he lifted his cowboy hat from his head.

"Howdy ma'am – please accept my apologies for disturbing you at this time of night. But I'm mighty tired… its been a long day. Can I come in?"

Vivian locked her knees, or else they might buckle, and she couldn't have that. She and Jake both looked toward her chest at the same time as Dr. Chan's shouting finally registered to them both. Vivian for one was glad for the distraction. She put the phone to her ear while looking up at Jake. "I have to go… I have company."

"Jake right?! WHO IS THIS JAKE?!"

"Good – bye!" She clicked the phone off and backed up letting Jake through. "Mr. McPherson, what do you think you're doing here at this time of night?" She asked closing the door behind him, locking it. It was late after all. She turned to see him standing in the center of her living room with his hat in hand down by his side, eye-balling her flowers over in her dinning room. He pivoted on the spot and looked back at her, raising that same hand with the hat, using it to point at the flowers. "So… those come from that ass kisser on the phone I just heard?"

"Ex-cuuuse you… and what part of my business is it that you think is yours? 'Cause I can tell you now… none of it. Don't worry about the ass kisser – as you put it. Three dozens of roses baby, he ain't doing such a bad job."

"And here I thought you were a woman of higher tastes and expectations! 'Cause I can tell you now… that's some sorry ass kissin'. All those… they'll be dead next week, but diamonds and gold… well that kind'ah ass kissin' last forever." Jake stated, tossing his hat on the table and removing his jacket, "Here I thought you knew that." He finished shocking the daylights out of Vivian, because he was right and who the heck told him he could remove his hat and jacket as if he'd just come home.

"What are you doing?"

"Making myself comfortable… don't you want me to?" He asked.

She was stunned into silence, looking from the flowers to him, to the phone in her hand, which rang. Needing a moment to collect herself, she clicked it on. "Hello?"

"I'm coming there on my lunch! I'm telling you now… and that Jake – better not be there when I get there!"

"Don't do it! Don't show your end up here!"

"I'm willing to walk away from my wife and family for you… and you putting me through this?! Do you understand the sacrifice I'm about to make for you?!"

"Look… I told you three, four months ago…. and I'm telling you again… It – is – OVER! You know what over means?! Over as in the end! Oupso! No mo! Negative – discontinued and never to be restarted again. Now do not send me anymore cheap ass flowers! Something that will be as dead next week, as our relationship is now! Get it? Don't call any more – I mean it!" She clicked the line off.

Jake was standing in the wide arch between the dinning room and living room, his arms crossed over his chest, quietly listening, grinning.

"Now… as for you. How is it that you think, you can just walk up in here, make yourself comfortable in my home? What do you want?!"

Jake bit into his tongue just in the nick of time. Something wild and crazy almost made him blurt, 'You!' and he was glad that he hadn't. Because he didn't want her. Not really. She was cute. Young. More like incredible looking than cute… but she would be too much trouble. His life was fine just as it was. Therefore, he had to figure out what the heck he was doing there if that were the case. Realizing he'd been pausing too long in thought, he grinned and lifted a brow. "I came to pay you back. You know, the money you spent to keep me from laying in the street last night." He explained reaching into his back pocket to remove his wallet, and then eighty dollars. He counted out four twenties, pulled them from other bills and passed them to her. "There you go."

Vivian stood stunned looking down at the money still in his hand, waiting for her to take it.

"I don't want that." She blurted suddenly, wondering what the heck he was up to.

"Its your money… I owe you that." He shoved it at her. "Take it."

"Look – at the very least – we can call it even, you brought me home after all. Its not your fault that I needed a ride home. Therefore, had you not been forced to bring me home, you wouldn't have ended up on my sidewalk, where I had to pay to bring you in. I owe you… so… keep that, I will pay you back. Unfortunately, I've slept the day away and so I haven't been to the bank. I hadn't expected you to show up here." She went on.

"No no no… I insist. I'm not going to have a woman paying out of her pocket for me – regardless of the circumstances. Now take this, its yours."

"No!" She refused and crossed her arms across her breasts, she had principles after all. Besides that, she was now gambling. Whether he knew it or not, his showing up had switched her gears… now more than ever… she wanted him, and she wasn't about to blow it by taking money from him – it was, let the games begin time. Regardless of what his intentions were, she was going for the full Monty. She decided right then and there… before her stood the father of the two children she would be having as soon as the time was right.

"No?" He asked stunned.

"No… now, is there anything else I can do for you?" She got right to the point.

"I want you to take this money!" Jake insisted, stunned that she didn't just reach out and grab it. After all, wasn't that the way they were? After money, whatever they could get out of a man? He didn't get why she was refusing him. "There are no strings attached to this money you know… its yours free and clear." He explained thinking perhaps she thought he was after something else. It occurred to him, that in fact he was, at some point, he knew he was going to have to go to bed with her. She was stirring him and the only way to kill the need was to have her, then the need would pass, he'd be sated and he could go on with his normal activities.

"Sir, let me explain something to you… strings attached or not, I don't need the money. Vivian takes care of Vivian – understand? I don't need any man, you included, walking up in here, flashing a few dollars in my face, thinking I'm impressed enough to be swept off my feet. It's not happening. Matter of fact, you didn't have to make the drive down here. What a wasted trip. Put that money back in your pocket, and use it for a room… now if you go out this street here-…"

"You gonna make me leave? It's almost two in the morning!" Jake pointed out aghast. Her phone rang again.

"Excuse me." She turned from him, her face lit up with a fat smile, loving a challenge like this when the reward was him! She answered her phone again. "This had better not be Dr. Laek Chan." She said right away.

"I'll be there in thirty minutes! That Jake character better be gone!"

"Have you lost your mind? What is wrong with you? You know this behavior is starting to be reminiscent of a stalker… I'm beginning to feel harassed."

"How can you say that to me…" She listened and watched as Jake went over and sat on her sofa, picked up her remote, flipped through a few channels, looked up at her, then shaped his hand like it was around a can of beverage, motioning towards his mouth, as to say, 'Get me something to drink.' gesturing with his head towards the kitchen then leaned back on the sofa as if she were on her way to getting it. "…after all we've been through together. You know how I feel about you…" Chan went on.

Vivian cocked her hip, of course not listening to a word he said, staring at Jake as if he'd lost his mind. He looked at her, his expression surprised to see her still standing there, both hands went up as if to say, 'Well… get my drink.'

"Do me a favor… be quiet a minute…" Vivian started, walking to the kitchen shaking her head. If she wasn't about to tell Chan off, she'd be ignoring Mr. McPherson's nerve, she went to her refrigerator, removed a cold can of Pepsi, and grabbed a glass from her cabinet. "… listen closely to my voice, to what its trying to communicate to you. Our five years of bullshit – has come to a close…" She walked up to Jake, passed him the Pepsi and glass. He took it and winked at her. She rolled her eyes turning away from him walking towards her window as she spoke to Chan. "… you had a chance to make something of us. Even after I found out that you were married, you lying sonofabitch… I still stayed with your ass when I should have told you to take a hike! You had five years to get me… time – is – up! What you're saying now … what you've now decided, is irrelevant! I'm moving on… right now I am free of a man, and I rather like it…" She patiently explained, turning to look at Jake as she said it.

Who was listening, his mouth slanted crooked as he nodded his head as if agreeing with her, flipping channels to stop at the Discovery channel. Animal Planet was on, a male baboon was going at it with a female. Jake smiled. Vivian saw it, walked over and snatched the remote from him and turned the channel as he sat forward looking up at her with a faked, 'Hey!' look on his face.

"I guess this Jake that is there is a long lost cousin then?!" Chan asked smartly.

"Jake… for your information, since you continue to ask about him, is just a passing ship in the night. I've only known him for a day – he came to return something, and will be leaving as soon as I get off the phone with you." Vivian announced.

Jake kicked off his boots.

"I'm still coming there!"

"Then prepare yourself to look foolish! No… second thought – if you come, you will be met by the police! I'm tired of this shit! Game over …" She was saying. Jake held up a thumbs up and a nod of his head to say, 'That's telling him!' "… and you will be arrested for harassment! One more thing, I have your home number… don't have me get wifey on you! Good – bye – once and for all!" She clicked the phone off.

"And you!!! Put them boots back on! Grab that jacket! Take your hat… and get to steppin'!"

"Ah come on, I just got here. Least you could let me do is chill a bit… after all… I'm here now. I thought you'd be interested in knowing that Shawn and I have talked. We've made up. Things are pretty good between us now and I need to ask for your help with something as well."

She stood a moment staring at him. Both hands on her hips. Because her look was that of mistrust, it allowed her to drink him in under the cover of cynicism. Even with the bruises of fighting on his face, they couldn't take away the fact that he was absolutely beautiful.

"Well… aren't you happy to hear that my brother and I have mended fences?"

Vivian released a sigh and walked to the corner of her sofa and sat down, crossing her legs she turned to face him, her arms back in place crossed over her breasts. He leaned back and sideways to stare at her. The more he searched her features, the more incredible her stunning good looks became. She was truly regal in a young sort of way, her looks screamed, young! He imagined that had she gone back a few hundred years, she would be found among African royalty. Her neck was long, slender and graceful, her lips very full and tempting. Her nose was straight, a bit long, yet fitting just so and centered in her oval face. Her large eyes, were a very light brown, lighter than one would expect for one so dark. Her eye lashes very thick and long, and her brows were inky black and thick as well, arching just the way they should when she used them for emphasis or when she was being pompous or suspicious – like now. Jake felt his level of excitement grow, he wanted to taste her. He wanted to see her completely naked, and examine that body of hers from top to bottom, front and back, and most certainly, from deep within. He felt his loins stir at the thought.

"Done yet?" She boldly asked.

Jake smiled, oh the things he could say to that… but he would behave himself, or at least try to. "You see yourself everyday in the mirror, nothing new for you to gaze at something so lovely. I, on the other hand, need a moment to take it all in… well, that which I can for the time being." He returned.

"Emmm, I see. So you would have me believe that you drove all the way from Wisconsin, to give me eighty dollars. To let me know that you and your brother are on good terms finally, and to petition my assistance? That correct?"

"You got it."

"Okay… if that be the case, I'm happy for you and your brother. Its a shame you two had to beat the hell out of each other first, however… the deed is done and the healing has begun, good enough. Now… so it doesn't get too late, what is it that you feel I can help you with?"

"Help me find Sylvia. He – is an absolute wreck. I can't stand what I've caused between them. I have a feeling she may be here in Chicago. It is after all where she was born and raised."

"You sure you're finding her for your brother, and not yourself?" She asked.

"They are deeply in love with each other. They belong together. Considering the women from his past, I'm actually happy there is one who has passed the test, so to speak."

"Past the test? What test?"

"Not an intentional test… but – one still the same. One that says she can be trusted. One that proves the extent she loves him and will stand loyal letting no one in. That's important. Most women can't be trusted. Sad to say, they fall victim to needing to see if the grass might be greener in the neighboring pasture, what man wants a woman he can't trust."

"I see, so that test is to tempt her… with you. Emmm, I get it, you lay on the charm… for instance, like you're doing right now and if you can get them to nibble, you snatch them up and put them to the test. Should they fail, you play, and then drop them and move on to the next… so basically for you, its a win win situation… is that about the way it goes?"

Jake chuckled. "Now only a fool would admit such a thing sitting across from a woman like you."

"Oh … don't bother yourself about me… you can tell me anything, because you don't affect me one way or the other – at your most charming. You see because I know, what you're all about. Therefore, you and I, we are nothing but acquainted strangers tying up lose ends. Next week you'll be back to your life and what you do in it, and I – well… will return to what I enjoy in mine." She smiled.

Jake smiled, although his eyes narrowed.

Next thing she knew, he threw his head back and laughed. She couldn't help it, she laughed too, although she hadn't a clue as to what she said that was so funny. "You are good! So you want me that bad hm? What… you got marriage on your mind or something?" Jake declared with a grin. Vivian laughed even more, standing from the sofa and walking into her kitchen, still laughing. As she exited, Jake observed silently, as he flexed his brows and licked his lips, 'That woman has more curves than a mountain trail.'

Once she crossed the door, her eyes grew huge and she needed a moment to gather her wits to re-route her strategy, wondering what about herself told him that. Or was he fishing to test her? She smiled, he was testing her. She poured herself a Pepsi as well, walking back into the living room where he sat, her smile broadening with a giggle as she looked at him as if she had a private joke on him. She decided the best method of dealing with it, was to move on and give no comment.

"Anyway, lets drop this silly game. As for Sylvia… if I could help you find her, I would. Sheila would be the person most likely to know where she is, you should have talked to her while you were there talking to your brother. It would have saved you this drive. However, if I see her, I'll give you a call. Here… let me get my phone book… " She stood walking to her table across the room with the phone sitting there, she sat in the chair, grabbed a pen, opened it to the M's… and looked up at him.

"Ready… your home number or your cell phone, which would you prefer me to have? Second thought, give me your moms number… I would hate to phone you if you happen to be with another woman at the time. This way, she can just deliver the message to you."

Jake sat forward staring across the room at her, he was trying to figure out what she was up to. He knew he smelled good, yeah a little bruised and scarred, but hey… he was all man, and she was all woman. He put the grin back on. "I'll give you all three… this way, if you can't reach me, you can reach my mother… how's that?"

"As I said, I'm ready."

After scribbling out the numbers, she closed the book with a snap and put it back where she got it from. "I would say that would conclude our last encounter, I'm certain you'll want to find a room before-…"

"Ah come on… are you serious? After I've driven all this way?"

"I'm so sorry for you, but what did you expect? I sure hope you didn't think you were going to get here and end up in my bed… did you?"

"Sure… why not? I'm all man, you're all woman – or am I too much of a man for you to handle?"

"Yesterday I was just a baby." She reminded him standing.

He stood, walking from around the table towards her. "Well baby, you've done a lot of growing in the last 24 hours, and then some. All things considered, you're perfectly legal… and I'm perfectly willing and able, so how about we enjoy each other – I promise you a night you'll never forget." He stood before her now, looking down into her dark face, having drawn close to her, he was willing to accept that he would love to have a full night with her, his growing arousal could not be denied.

Vivian tilted up close to his face, because she wanted him to see her, smell her, feel her nearness, she began softly, "Let's get something clear Mr. McPherson, Jake… I don't do one night stands. You obviously have allowed yourself to get infected with a touch of fever… wantin' to try something new… I wish you the best of luck… because gettin' a taste of something new… nooo … that won't be me."

"You sure about that? Outside of my brother's wife, any woman I set my sights on … I get."

"Is that right?"

"You're going to stand this close to me, looking up into my eyes and tell me you don't feel the slightest stir… just a bit of desire to see what I can do for you?" He asked just as softly, slowly moving even closer to her, they were both breathing in the air and fragrance of the other.

"Let me run something by you… are you listening?" She asked, staring at his mouth, and then with seductive eyes she gazed up into his.

"You have… my full attention."

"You see me Jake?"

"Oh yeah."

"Take a good look."

"Oooh – I am."

"Good, because… with me – it's all – or nothing." She smiled, stepped back away from him, walked by him to the sofa where his boots sat. She picked them up, walked to where he threw his jacket, grabbed that, then picked up his hat and walked to her door. "Here… you're gonna need these to wear on the way to getting a room."

Jake stood with an erection throbbing down his leg that needed sating, one that required her for it… right then, at that moment, no one else would do. He couldn't believe she was standing at the door waiting for him, expecting him to leave. "Are you serious?" He asked incredulously.

"Yep… come on… put your stuff on."

"You're joking."

"Not one bit… come on, I'm ready to get to bed."

"I'm trying to help you… if you would just cooperate."

"I'm going to my bed… alone Jake… all – by myself."

He stood there with his mouth open.

"I mean it Jake. You're just a little boy. When you're ready to be a man… come back and see me then."

He gulped as it suddenly occurred to him that she was really serious. Surprised he walked up to the door. She sat his boots down so he could put them on. "Here, let me help you out." She went to kneel to aid him.

"I can put my own boots on, thank you!" He snapped, not at all happy. He wanted her. His mind was going nuts with images of them in bed. He wanted nothing more right then – than to sink as deep as he could go into her and not stop, repeating it over and over. He could see it in his minds eye, and knew it would be good. He'd make sure it was good. Yet, she was denying him. He was not happy. With his boots on, he took his jacket from her and put it on.

"Your hat." She said softly, smiling with a pussy cat grin, because she knew he wanted her. There was no mistaking it, his erection was prominent, evident enough to know that as far as that was concerned, he was no little boy … not there. Her heart beat like mad in her chest, because she wanted him too, but not for just one night, she wanted this man for good. She knew, if she gave him what he wanted right then, he may never want her again… maybe – but she wasn't willing to risk it. She wanted more than his lust for her, she wanted him mind, body, heart and soul. That was it… all or nothing. For that, she knew she must suffer too, but suffer she would – because he was worth it, and so was she.

He stood at the door hesitating, as if giving her a chance to change her mind.

She turned to open the door, he put his hand over it. "I'm telling you now… this is it. No more driving up here like an idiot in the middle of the night. This is your one chance, if I were you I'd take it. You deny us this night, you'll regret it for the rest of your life. Let me go out this door now… that's it… I won't be back here." He threatened, desperate to stay, he wanted her – and this always worked in the past, the thought of him never coming back always made them cave if they tried what he felt she was bluffing at now.

"I see, so this is goodbye? I better make it a good one then." She shocked him by stepping up to him, grabbing his jacket  lapels and pulling him down for a kiss, putting one hand behind his head, she turned hers and opened her mouth over his, working her tongue within his mouth. Jake felt a jolt to his system, he grabbed her to him, and filled her mouth with his tongue, rubbing and tasting hers. Both of them totally and completely caressed the other's tongue, breathing deep, their body raging with lust and excitement. Jake's hand went down to the cheek of her ample firm butt, his large hand encompassing the glorious mound, pulling her tightly against the tight, hard length of his penis, he rubbed and squeezed her ass as he grinded against her front, trying to work up between her thighs, rubbing against her throbbing mound. Unable to stand anymore, Vivian withdrew, giving his lips one last kiss, and then a lick. Breathing hard, she took a deep breath and backed away, her lower body moist and on fire, she opened her door.

"It's been nice. So long."

Jake stood with his heart pounding in his chest, his penis throbbing, pulsating to enter her body. He couldn't believe it!

"Yooou! Damn you! You fucking did that on purpose… look at me!"

"Come on Jake, let's face it… a man like you – all you have to do is snap your fingers. There's a female somewhere who will be eager to take care of that for you. Hey… you got eighty dollars, the rooms paid for… consider this one, on me." She pulled the door wider, stepping back.

He felt paralyzed, immobilized.

"You see, I happen to know, I'm worth a whole lot more, than the price you're trying to get me for. Like I said…  all… or nothing. Now leave."

Furious Jake strode through the door, muttering through clenched teeth, "Fine! I won't be back!"

She made no reply, just closed her door and locked it. When she heard his truck start, the revving of the engine, his hitting the gas so hard he burned rubber backing out, and then again taking off down the street, she exhaled. Flicking off her porch light, she walked through her home turning off lights, the t.v. and went up to shower and then, to bed. Her body still on fire from being pressed so intimately up against his. She could still feel his large warm hand on the cheek of her left buttocks, burning her, branding her.

In her PJ's, she climbed into bed and wondered had she blown it. Wondering if she should have gone to bed with him at least once, so that he knew, they were meant to be. She tossed and turned with the fear of what if, what if he truly was able to never come back her way again. She swallowed down her fear, closed her eyes and did something she'd never done before, she prayed to God… for a man… for Jake. Slipping off to sleep finally, she was haunted by a voice that whispered to her, 'Careful what you wish for, you just may… get it.'

 

 

---

Chapter 82

They were in a rush, moving fast to get to the airport. Sheila volunteered to take them to the airport in her van, and from there, she would head home to Chicago. They went by and picked up Gert and Shanna, who looked at his transformed appearance, the short short haircut and stud, gasping in surprise, but both agreed that they liked it. He was relieved, had them laughing as he told them about Mundo and Crystal talking him into the piercing. Sheila laughed with them as they talked about various things and they were on the highway to Madison, going by Derrick's to pick up Angela. Who came out to the van very unhappy for a couple of reasons. When she climbed in and took her seat, her arms were crossed over her chest, as she sat between her grandma and Shanna. Shawn kept looking back at her, every time he did, she narrowed her eyes at him, refusing to say a word to him.

Sheila looked at her in the rear mirror and shook her head, "Somebody ain't happy… I can tell you that now."

Gert stroked her granddaughter's head, "You worried about your mother honey? We'll be there today, so you can see her, okay?"

Angela nodded her head, her mind was in a whirl. Derrick and Meribel had been watching the news about the shooting that her mother was in, she sat stunned to hear them talking about her on tv… so she was anxious to see her. While she didn't want to live with her, she loved her and was scared wishing that she'd called her more often. Then she'd overheard the adults talking about the fight between her father and Jake, and that Sylvia was now gone because of it. She was scared about her mother, and pissed at her dad about Sylvia not being there. Earlier that day, the phone rang and it had been Sylvia, she had talk to Meribel for fifteen minutes and spoke to Angela next.

"Sylvia… where are you?"

"Listen sweety, I need you to understand something-…"

"Where are you?" Angela asked again, slowly starting to cry.

"Baby don't cry…"

"Why'd you leave Sylvia? Come and get me … can you take me to see my mom… she got shot."

"I know honey I know… I'm upset about it too."

"Come home Sylvia… please!"

"Angela… listen to me. Your father is going to take you to see your mom. I'm praying for her honey… but I can't be there right now."

"You promised Sylvia… you promised to always be here with me!" Angela cried.

"Angela… I'm so sorry baby… I love you so much… really I do… but I need a little time honey."

"When you coming home?"

"I – I don't know… I just know that I love you – and I will call and check on you okay?"

"You don't love my dad anymore?"

"Yes Angela… I love your dad… with all my heart I do. Its not him, its me."

"I want you to come home."

"I have to go honey… I love you." She hung up.

Just thinking about it made her mad enough to kick her father's seat.

"Angela! That's not very nice!" Gert scolded her.

Shawn looked back at his daughter, her eyes were shooting daggers at him.

"What's going on with you, kicking my seat!?" He asked stunned.

She refused to answer, instead she sat glaring at him with heated eyes, oh if looks could kill, he'd be ash.

"You hear me talking to you? What are you looking at me like that for?"

"You made Sylvia leave! You and uncle Jake! Next time she calls me… I'm going with her!"

"She called you?!" Shawn asked.

"Yeah!" She answered angrily.

"When?"

"Today!"

"What she say?" He asked urgently.

"I'm – not – telling you!" She refused, sat back and crossed her arms over her chest glaring at him.

Shawn snatched himself around in his seat, unwilling to push it as he sat looking out the front window on the way to the airport, with him having to direct Sheila. When they arrived, he stood explaining to her how to go back out and where to get on the Interstate to head for Chicago, writing out a little map on a piece of paper. He gave her a tight hug, thanking her for everything, letting her know that they'd be back in a few days, he'd be in contact with her then.

With their bags in hand, all four stood getting their luggage checked in, and then through the security machines and the walk through and they were on their way to boarding their flight with not a moment to spare. Angela sat next to Shanna, refusing to sit next to her father. Shawn could only shake his head. Sylvia had spoken to the kids, relieving them of any concern, but not to him. He'd spent one hell of a night trying to get to sleep with her not there next to him. He was exhausted with most of the night spent tossing and turning, his mind deep in thought, unwilling to release him for rest. He would do as Jake advised upon return from California – praying that is, that Deidre pulled through. He felt guilty. She had been his first wife. She lay now in critical condition – but all he could think about was trying to find Sylvia. Trying to figure out how to repair whatever damage he'd created with her from needing to make her his. Replaying in his mind was the image of Armundo Payne – he would need serious prayers and help were he to ever run across him. He shook the thought, he was dead.

He needed to use his power of prayer for Deidre, that she pull out of her injuries, and then… a prayer that some how, he could get his wife to come home to him.

They landed in Cincinnati, Ohio, rushing from one terminal to the next to meet their connecting flight. Still, Angela wouldn't speak to him, and he wasn't going to force her. She loved Sylvia, and he felt a bit of a bite of anger that she could just desert them all like that. Not only putting him through hell, but the kids as well. Crystal and Mundo were adults, so they could cope much easier, but Angela was not. Now here she was, mother in the hospital and Sylvia no where in sight.

As the flight finally took off, Shawn could lean back and get a little rest. He could hear his mom and Shanna talking about Jake, Gert was wondering what became of him taking Vivian home the other night. Shawn was dozing off, when he felt a small hand slipping into his. He cracked his left eye open to peep at his daughter who was looking out the window, but her hand was in his. He gave it a little squeeze, his thumb stroking her knuckles. She glanced back at him, with tears in her eyes.

"I wish Sylvia was here." She admitted softly.

"Its not because she doesn't love you pum'kin." Shawn murmured gently.

"She said she loved me. She said she loves you too… that she left because she needed time…she said its not you… but her." She finally told him what had been said on the phone.

"I guess we have no choice but to give it to her. Let's just focus on your mother right now… okay?"

Angela looked back out the window and then turned back to Shawn, who'd closed his eyes again. "Sylvia's my mom too… I just want everything back to the way it was." She sighed sitting back in her seat. Shawn didn't respond, he dare not open his eyes, the air would make them tear up – because he too wanted things back the way they were, with his wife by his side.

He finally dozed off to sleep and slept the duration of the flight. Just enough rest to refresh him as they landed at LAX around two Sunday afternoon. Shawn went through the routine of renting a vehicle, this time a SUV because he had Shanna and his mother with him. They couldn't wait to get to his condo to unpack and relax a bit before they went to the hospital. Gert had been to California many years ago, but enjoyed it once again upon arrival. This was Shanna's first time and she was enthralled with it. When they arrived at the condo, they were both wowed by the property around it, his condo had it's own swimming pool. There was also a golf course not far on the property, as well a tennis court, club house with a large lounge and bar. Shawn slipped the keys in the door and walked in helping them with their bags. Sitting them down, he went back for his work that would be needed to deliver to the James' while he was there. Gert and Shanna looked around the house with Angela excitedly showing them, it was a spacious three bedroom condo, with a large kitchen, family room, den/office, dinning room, living room, back patio, pool, work out room, and a sauna as well two baths. Shawn returned as they were looking around, dropping off his portfolio and pictures.

"I'll be back… I need to go and collect my mail." He told them.

After he returned, and sorted through the junk mail, he sat up his laptop. Plugged it in and downloaded his email. Sitting down, he felt his heart jolt… there was an email from Sylvia.

Swallowing and nervous, he clicked on it.

 

From: Sylvia M. McPherson Date: 05/11/2004 11:30:15 To: Everett Styles Subject: Please Understand…   My husband… I tossed and turned thru a restless night without you, funny how – already I have become accustomed to you beside me. So much happening… I saw the news about Deidre and could not believe it. Hearing it sucked the air right out of me. It was that that almost made me return to you. However, I can't… not yet. I have spoken with our children. To hear mine go on about you, how you're being such an incredible loving father to them, makes my heart swell. They need you… and there you are. I've spoken with Angela… I know I've hurt her by leaving. Once again… hearing her voice almost made me come back. But – something stopped me. My husband, my putting you through hell… as I've been told that I'm doing – is not my intention. Not at all. You have emailed me, I see them here, but I haven't read them… too afraid to. Something in your words might make me come back to you… and right now… I – don't want to. Not yet. Not yet. I have my phone turned off as well – so any messages from you, I dare not listen to, the sound of your voice – would bring me rushing back to you – I know it would. You have a strange power over me. Something about you, in your voice, in your words, in your look, in your touch… that leaves me weak, leaves me breathless. I dare not read your letters… I dare not listen to your voice – you see – this is the reason I have not called you. Like someone trapped in a spell – I would abandon this time that I need – and I would rush back to you. I struggle back and forth with this fear, that my absence may somehow jeopardize what we have, our marriage. I pray not. While I am helpless to get myself to return just yet. Why can I not return? Have you asked yourself that? I have… asked myself – and all I can think of is – within me… something must be – broken. You can't fix it Shawn, you can't fix it. You see, I was fixing it – when I met you. I was doing so good. At first I felt so strong – so sure. Everything was… just as I wanted it to be. Then you swooped in like a mighty storm – tossing everything I so carefully laid out about. You know what it is? I'd just – just gained this amazing independence and freedom, and control … and I liked it. It felt good. I felt wonderful. I felt free – I felt that for once… I was doing something incredible – for ME. I needed – to – have that time – to fix me! I had it… I had it Shawn… then… you came. And … once again… I started losing – me. Want to hear something crazy?  I don't want to lose me… and I don't – want to lose YOU!!! So what do I do… what do I do? I go from wiping at my tears, to smiling with glee and wonder, because I hold your precious child here within my womb. I think… it is that – or him – (this may sound strange), but I know its a boy Shawn… I just feel that he is. I think he – knowing that he is with me – is what gives me the strength and the feeling that its okay right now to take this time. Its like, you are with me… because I have him with me. You know, I talk to him. Really talk to him, and I find him strangely comforting… as if he listens. As if he says to me, "Its okay mama, I'm with you… we'll be all right. My papah understands." I love him already Shawn… I love him already. Because – he's a part of you. I don't know where you'll be when you read this email, but know this… wherever you are… I am with you. I love you… and we're okay.   Your errant wife…

 

 

Shawn sat reading it over and over again. Amazed at her words, her thoughts and if he didn't miss her so much, need her so much, he would almost feel that it was okay, for her to take this time. Strangely enough, he was falling deeper in love with his wife, as each hour, and day went by. He could most certainly vouch for, absence making the heart grow founder… because he ached with it. He sat for a few moments, his mother had come over his shoulder and read the email, he didn't mind. Silently, she stroked his head and whispered. "She loves you… give her some time Shawn… give her some time."

"I'm afraid to give her time. I don't even know where she is, if she's safe. If something were to happen to her, who would know?"

Gert went and sat across from him. She looked him in the eyes and explained.

"Derrick knows where she is Shawn."

"What?!"

"Listen to me son. She called him upset, needing someone to talk to that was close to you, she chose Derrick. Derrick convinced her to make an agreement, that she tell him where she was, and he would keep it confidential on the grounds that she call him twice a day. If she chose to leave her location, he made her agree to tell him where she was going, and on which route. No matter what, no matter where she goes, she must check in at those times they agreed on … the moment she misses one, he would be on the phone with the police!"

Shawn raised his fist in the air, grinding his teeth with his fist pressed against his head. His mother could see he was fighting not to lose his temper. "Shawn… at least someone knows where she is. She could be out there and no one know."

Shawn leaned forward with his head pressed against his fist, his elbows on the table fighting back a need to shout in anger. He bit out through tightly clamped teeth. "She is – my wife. Look… I tell you what… you call Derrick… tell him – the next time she phones, that I want her to come home… and I will leave – if she needs time, I'll go. Will you do that for me?"

"Shawn… she doesn't want to come home. Derrick knows you, he asked her that already, and she said… when she was ready to come home… she would. What she needs, she can't get sitting across the road from your home, knowing you're not there because of her."

"I'm telling you now… this woman is going to drive me freakin' insane! She's going to drive me clean up the bend! When I get my hands on her… oh when I get my hands on her…"

He couldn't finish because he knew what he would do when he got his hands on her, he would hold on tight and not let go, loving her like a man gone mad. He sighed deep and long and lifted his head to look at his mother.

"My mother, you haven't a clue of what it's like to love someone so much… and not be able to hold them close and keep them safe with you. When all you want to do is love them, be with them and build your world with that person."

Gert swallowed and looked up from her son to her daughter who stood behind him in the door. She could see it in Shanna's eyes, that she knew what she was feeling from him making such an untrue declaration of her. Yet, she would keep that to herself. The fact that Shanna knew the truth of her lost love… was enough.

"Son… let's take it one day at a time. For right now, we should be getting to the hospital."

He looked up and agreed, "Yes… let's go."

 

When they arrived at the hospital and Shawn spoke with the receptionist at the front desk, explaining who he was, he was shocked to hear that he needed special approval to see Deidre from her representative or her attorney.

"Well who is that?" He asked.

"If you hold on a moment, we will get a hold of her for you. Please, have a seat."

Stunned, Shawn went and had a seat with his mother, Shanna and Angela.

"Why won't they let us see her daddy?"

"I don't know – I suppose we'll find out shortly." He answered. As they waited, he decided to give the James' a call to let them know that he was in town. As he spoke with them, he couldn't help but wonder what was going on with Deidre, distracted, he had to explain to them why he was in town. The Following of which, they invited him and his family to their home for dinner the next night, Shawn agreed. Just as he clicked off the phone, a well attired black man and a police officer walked from down the hospital corridor towards the receptionist desk. The black man spoke with her a moment and she pointed them out. They both turned and looked their way, he spoke back to the receptionist with a nod and then headed for them, his eyes intently on Shawn, who stood.

"Shawn Everett McPherson?" Jeremiah asked, approaching Shawn with his hand out.

"Yes… and you are?" Shawn took his hand, gripping it tightly and shaking it.

"I'm Deidre's appointed attorney, Jeremiah Franklin. Before we say another word, we need to check your identification, and verify who you are… you have any id on you?" Jeremiah asked him with the officer standing by to collect Shawn's identification from him. He stood stunned, staring blank for a moment.

"Are you serious?" He asked.

"Yes, I'm afraid so… without it, I'm afraid we can't allow you to see her."

"What is going on here?" Shawn asked reaching into his back pocket for his wallet. He removed his drivers license and passed it to the officer, "This won't take long." The officer assured him.

"I'll explain once he returns." Jeremiah stated, looking Shawn over, recognizing him from the photo Deidre had in her wallet. He then looked over at her daughter sitting with two women. He smiled at her. "You're Angela?" He asked.

She nodded. Jeremiah looked back at Shawn.

"You have a beautiful daughter. Deidre is very proud of her."

"If you know that's our daughter, then you know who I am." Shawn pointed out to him.

"I assure you, this is just a necessary precaution. Once you're positively identified we can go from here. That shiners healing up pretty good, who made you mad?"

"My brother! He's got one too!"

Jeremiah chuckled, "Yes, brother's… believe me – I understand, I have one as well."

"Yes well, what can I say to prove myself to you and move this along?"

Jeremiah considered the question, was about to answer it when they were interrupted.

"Shawn! Thank god you've arrived! The last thirty-six hours has been hell! And you! Jeremiah Franklin! Don't think you're going to get away with this! She's our daughter! Our daughter! How dare you! Dare you continue with this nonsense! Shawn! He's – he's keeping us from Deidre! We've been going crazy! I haven't slept a wink since all of this has happened!" Georgiana dramatized, throwing herself into Shawn's arms, taking him by surprise.

Jeremiah watched Shawn's eyes narrow with distrust. For the sake of some semblance of compassion, considering those present, Shawn gently took a hold of Georgiana's arms, pulling her off of him.

Georgiana couldn't believe that he had finally arrived. Every since she'd been told that her daughter lay in critical condition, she'd anticipated him showing up with Angela. She was not disappointed. It was wonderful to see him again, even with the bruises on his face, nothing could lessen his appeal in Georgiana's eyes. Deidre's tragedy had been the perfect reason for his return. Georgiana felt only a slight tug to her conscience where her daughter was concerned, considering she lay fighting for her life. While she was indeed genuinely worried about her, it was not enough for her to set aside her longings for her daughter's ex-husband. He'd been on her mind heavily, with the tapes of him, and having that part of him that brought her the slightest bit of gratification, because she knew that it too came from him only fed her desire for him.

"Oh Shawn, he's putting us through hell! Using our daughter to take revenge out on us! You can't imagine what they've put us through. They won't let us take her out of here! We have our own doctors and hospital that would give her much better care, certainly you can do something to help us get her out of their hands!"

"Mrs. Wherrington, I've only just arrived. I haven't a clue of what's going on here." Shawn returned, stepping back to open up space between them.

Gert sat staring in disbelief. She didn't know this woman, but if she were indeed Deidre's mother, she found it strange that she would throw herself into Shawn's arms that way, considering that he'd been married to her daughter. Gert and Shanna made eye contact, and Angela leaned to Gert whispering, "That's my other grandma… I don't like her." She made her grandmother aware, and getting Gert's attention, who was looking down into her granddaughter's eyes as she went on to say, "You know what grandma, she don't like me either."

Gert's eyes went from Angela, back up to her son, who was obviously uncomfortable with her attempts of trying to cling to him. He'd moved away from her, but she'd moved to his side now, facing the black attorney Jeremiah Franklin.

"He's out for revenge! I know it! What kind of low life human would take advantage of a family emergency like this to further his own selfish plot!" Georgiana blasted at Jeremiah.

She'd gone looking for someone to give her answers. Oscar was in the waiting room on the phone, pacing about so angry he was almost out of control, trying to get Deidre out of the hands of Jeremiah and her friend Terra. Georgiana wasn't sure what was going on. She wasn't really bothered about her daughter staying in the hospital, what she didn't understand was why they weren't allowed to see her. Also, there was that irritating investigator and his partner asking them questions. Oscar had warned her not to say anything to them, not to answer any questions. She didn't get it. She could see no reason for them being under the eye of the investigation when everyone knew that Deidre's cab driver had gotten lost, took a wrong turn, leading her into the midst of a gang war. End of story. So she believed. Unable to stand her husband's presence a moment longer, she'd gone off to find Jeremiah and question him as to why he was doing this when she saw him standing and speaking with Shawn.

"Mrs. Wherrington, despite your accusations against me, I'm doing what I was hired to do. To protect your daughter and her interest."

"My daughter doesn't need protection from us, we're her family! We didn't hire you!"

"But her representative did. Until we know what's going on-…"

"Have you not been watching the news!? SHE WAS SHOT – IN A GANG ATTACK!!!"

"So it's assumed." Jeremiah responded, not at all bothered by her yelling. She'd been yelling at him for the last day every time she saw him. If not her, then her husband, he wasn't bothered. He had a job to do… and he would be thorough, making sure all was done accordingly so that nothing was missed and Deidre remained safe. He relieved Terra so that she could rest, when she returned, he would take a break.

"I can't talk to you! There's no reason why I should have to. Our lawyers will be here shortly… when this is all over and done with, you'll be sorry you ever bothered the Wherrington's!" She turned her back to him, facing Shawn again.

"Where are you staying? You know you're more than welcome to come to our home? Times like this, family must pull together."

"You must be joking?! We're not family, and when Deidre and I were married – we weren't family. Let's get something clear right now Mrs. Wherrington, I'm here so that my daughter can see her mother. So that I can see Deidre and know that she's okay -or- not. I have a life of my own, with my own family. We are in need of nothing from you, however, thank you  for the offer."

Georgiana stood steaming as she stared at Shawn, conversely there was nothing she could do about him for the time being. She hated that so many were about, standing watching them. She needed to be alone with him, she needed time to persuade him to her side. He'd changed some, he wore his hair differently, which made him look even more desirable in her opinion. He had the perfect height, build and shaped head for that cut, making him all that much more masculine, alluring. Something about the cut, the earring now in his ear, his well shaped beard and dress sent shivers through her from head to foot. At his most disdainful, she would want him. She couldn't wait for her dates of consultations to begin for her plastic surgery. She only needed a few nips and tucks – here and there and once she recovered from that – she'd be ready to rain down on him her full plan to have him.

Georgiana looked beyond Shawn at Angela and then the older woman she sat next to, as well the young woman with her. Her eyes narrowed on Shanna, wondering who she was. "Who is this?" Georgiana asked walking around Shawn towards Angela. Shawn turned, "My mother, Gertrude Eleanora McPherson, my sister, Shanna."

"Your sister?" Georgiana said it with a smile. Again, Gert didn't miss a thing. Georgiana turned back to them, "I'm Georgiana Wherrington. Deidre's mother. Nice to meet you. Angela, no hug for your grandmother?"

"No." She answered sitting back. She'd never hugged her before, no sense in starting now. Georgiana glared at her a moment, then turned back to Shawn's mother.

"How long will you all be here?"

"Until my son is ready to leave. We must get back to check on his wife… she's not feeling well, being with child is a bit uncomfortable for her right now, the flight would have made her sick, otherwise she would be here… his wife… that is." Gert lied, testing Georgiana. She failed the test miserably. Her eyes grew wide and she turned back to Shawn.

"You – you married her… that… woman from the courthouse?" Georgiana asked stunned and breathless.

"This was to be our honeymoon. Yes I did… we're married now, this time around, I did it right." Shawn stated.

The police officer walked up to them and handed Shawn his license.

"He's clear."

"Good… if you would, Mr. McPherson, you and your family can follow me." Jeremiah invited.

"You're going to let them in to visit my daughter when I haven't even seen her yet?!" Georgina challenged in disbelief.

Patiently, Jeremiah turned back to her and answered, "Yes… yes I am." He then turned to Shawn's mother, "Mrs. McPherson, this way please." Jeremiah indicated with his arm extended in the direction they would be walking, he gathered her, Shanna and Angela before him, as the officer lead the way with Shawn falling in beside him. No one gave Georgiana another thought.

 

Jeremiah stood outside to give them some privacy while visiting Deidre, he wanted to question Shawn, but he promised the investigation team that he would let them conduct it as long as he could be present when he requested to be. He'd called them as soon as Shawn and his family entered her room. He turned pacing and thinking. He knew that something was going on with Oscar T. Wherrington. The man seemed a bit beyond the norm for a father concerned about the medical welfare of his daughter. He'd raged and blustered a great deal about not being able to see her. While that indeed was normal – what was not, was his insistence and interference with the physicians and demanding his own doctors attend her. Pushing so it seemed to have her transferred out of this hospital when he and Terra both explained that he, nor his wife had any jurisdiction, right of decision, or power to move her or decide upon her medical care. They'd had to go so far as to ban him from the floor he became so belligerent. The man was almost foaming at the mouth with desperation.

Thus far, Jeremiah was happy with the way things were going with the investigation. There was quite the surprise expressed when three dead white bodies were pulled from some of the vehicles driven in the shooting. The vehicles used were stolen, vin numbers scratched from the plates. Mock registration plates that were dead and useless. There were survivors that got away, leaving only the dead behind. But they were enough evidence to show, this so called, "gang war" – was not what it had been reported to be. Because he had pushed and pushed, and stood by with a sharp critical eye daring them to make one false move, the tide was turning.

His brother had been released and charges against those from his neighborhood frozen while the whole incident was under investigation.

The young woman responsible for helping save Deidre's life, Chaka – had already been questioned and was now under police protection until further notice, she might possibly be used as a witness of what took place that night. As it were, she'd already told the investigators, that Deidre's screaming was that of someone who knew they were being hunted down to be killed. It was more than just being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time – she had known that whomever chased them, were there to make sure she was dead.

The detectives, Johnson and Gleason did not want to hear that. That meant, this was going to be long, drawn out and even possibly get ugly. No one had wanted to say it, so Jeremiah said it for them, "This was no gang war… this was a plot… and I get a feeling, one that went terribly wrong. Either way, money is behind it. So seems to me, until its been proven beyond a doubt, you're going to have to release those that were arrested. They saved her life."

 

Shawn stood at the head of the bed looking down at Deidre, and could not believe what he was seeing. That she was actually laying in a induced coma in order to aid in her recovery. Police guards stood outside of her door. All he could do was look at her laying there and wonder what had happened to bring them both to this place and time of such unhappiness and horror. She'd been shot six times. Two in the pelvic area, one in the thigh, another had hit her in the large intestine, through her shoulder, and another just inches from her spinal column at the very base of her neck as it went into her collar bone area. She'd lost a great deal of blood they said, and if she could make it through the next 48 hours, her odds were good.

He couldn't believe it. It was all like some strange and crazy nightmare. He stroked the hair from her brow, unable to prevent the memories of them together from rushing through his mind. While he knew they were never quite suited to one another, he had loved her. He just hadn't been truly in love with her. As he was with his missing wife. No matter how bad things had become between him and Deidre… this is something he would have never wished on her. In fact he would have done anything to protect her from it. Angela stood beside him holding her mother's hand. He looked over at his daughter and lifted his hand palming her head and pulling her into his side.

His mother and Shanna stood on the other side of the bed looking down at her, observing all of the wires and tubes coming out of her. All the machines connected to them, making regular beeps and ticks in regular intervals.

"My God… the poor thing… she's as pale as a ghost." Gert murmured softly.

"What exactly happened?" Shanna asked.

"I don't really know… I'm going to go out and talk to her lawyer. I'll be right back you guys." He turned to his daughter, "You stay here… I need to find out what happened okay?" Angela nodded moving in the place he evacuated, taking up stroking her mother's hair from her forehead.

 

"I need to know what's going on here? Why the police? All the security? Keeping her parents from her?" Shawn asked Jeremiah as they stepped outside on the visitors deck.

Jeremiah was leaning back against the rail facing Shawn, both of them stood with their arms crossed over their chest as Jeremiah shared what he dared to. "It's been reported that Deidre was caught up in a gang war when her taxi driver made a wrong turn. I know contrary. Her best friend, Terra – knows better. You see… Deidre's been fearing for her life. She had a power of attorney made out with Terra Conway as her legal executor for all matters pertaining to her in case of an emergency, or… in case of an accident. Her exact words to Terra was, "If anything should happen to me, don't let them get me." meaning… her family… her parents. Next thing we know, she doesn't show up for an important event Friday, an awards ceremony for Terra. Because of the things Terra knew, she panicked and together we went looking for Deidre, her car was still sitting at her place. For some reason, she took a taxi. We've collected her vehicle and it is now being checked over. We won't know what will be found until next week sometime."

"Are you standing here telling me… that her parents might be responsible for this? That they tried to kill their own daughter?!" Once again Shawn stood stunned at what he was hearing.

"What I'm telling you is this… she was not an innocent victim of a gang war. They saved her life… this gang whom someone has framed to take the wrap. There are vehicles peppered with serious gun fire, especially the vehicles where Deidre was carried in. So… whatever the circumstances are, leading to that night, she was not to live through it. Thus… the police, the security and the need to keep her parents away from her until she recovers. Right now while she is in critical condition, it is the perfect time for someone to slip in and finish the job. For that reason, no one goes near her. Only one doctor… only one nurse. Should she recover… regain consciousness, it would be too late then to try and kill her, because then it would be obvious. Now… no – she would be too easy to kill were the wrong person allowed into her room. Under the circumstance, we need to play it safe. If she recovers, wakes up, and proves to be out of dangerous waters, we will let her parents visit her – escorted."

Shawn stood staring lost for words.

"Look… you all must be tired after flying in from Wisconsin. Get back to your rooms, rest… and I'll give you a call should anything change. Also, prepare yourself for a bit of questioning."

"Yeah… sure…okay." Shawn turned away to collect his mother, sister and daughter.

 

They left the hospital and went grocery shopping, and then returned to the condo. Taking advantage of their time there, Angela, Shanna and Gert donned swimming suits to enjoy some sun and swimming. Shawn sent them on to enjoy themselves, saying that he would cook. It was six thirty, Shawn stood in the kitchen seasoning the orange roughy fish they bought, he would broil it, make a salad, and steam potatoes with butter and fresh chives. He stood watching the clock aware that it was two hours ahead in Wisconsin. He stood fighting grabbing the phone as long as he could. Finally unable to hold back, he picked up the receiver and dialled the number that had been haunting him for the last couple of hours.

"Hello?" Derrick answered.

There was silence, it lingered a moment and then finally Shawn spoke. "It's me."

"Oh… hi… so you guys made it there safely… good."

"Derrick… I need-…"

"No… no Shawn… I can't."

"She's – my – wife! Please!" Again silence, "Please Derrick… I'm going nuts man… I need to know-…"

"I gave her my word Shawn. I gave her my word. She's safe. I just spoke with her as a matter of fact, she's doing as I asked, checking in on time."

"How can you keep her location from me!? I'm your fucking brother man! She's my wife! I wanna know where she is!" Shawn demanded.

"I gave her my word. Whether you believe me or not… I am doing this for you… my brother."

"I just – I just wanna hear her voice… I just wanna hear her… just… I need to talk to her man… I need to just hear her… I'll call… I won't say anything… I just want to hear her answer the phone… I promise."

"Shawn… you're gonna have to wait it out. You're going to have to give her this time-…"

"THAT'S FUCKING EASY FOR YOU TO SAY!!! YOU'VE GOT YOUR GODDAMN FAMILY RIGHT THERE – RIGHT FUCKING THE-E-ERE!!! NOW – TELL ME – WHERE – IS MY WIFE?!!"

{{ Click }}

Shawn held the phone in his hand so tightly, he wanted to crumble it into a million pieces. He braced his hands against the kitchen counter, pushing at it and grinding his teeth so tight and hard his head shook as tears gathered in his eyes.

Angry he walked to his desktop, clicked it on, waited for it to power up. Signed in, and then went to his email account, he clicked on the small icon for writing an email.

He added his wife's two email addresses in the To: and CC: slots and in the Subject line he wrote… "You are killing me! Wrecking me from the inside out!" And sent it, knowing she would not open it, but she had no choice but to see the subject line.