What Love Must Over Come
Part 1
Written and Copyright 2000 by Ashley Sullivan
Billy and Mac are sitting in Billy's living room holding hands all alone, holding hands and talking about there secret.
"I wish we didn't have to keep this a secret." sighed Mac as Billy rubbed is thumb along her hand softly.
"I know, but what can we do asked Billy? We can't tell anyone because of my mother!"
"Don't forget Brittany." Mac said
"She'll be fine. If anything, she'll furious because I chose you over her. Believe me if I had to choose again, I'd make the same decision. " He said with a smile. Mac smiled and leaned in and placed a single lingering kiss on Billy's lips. When she began to lean away Billy laced his right hand through her soft hair and pulled her closer. He deepened the kiss by placing his left arm firmly around her waist and pulling her onto his lap. The kiss seemed to go on forever they didn't even notice someone enter the fron door....
All of a sudden there was a loud thump from the front enteryway. The trance was broken and there heads turned to see Brittany standing there with a look of horror on her face.
"What the hell is going on here?" she cried, not moving from where she stood. Mac stood and Billy followed. They stood there staring at her not knowing what to say. "Well...." Brittany almost screamed!"
"Look Brittany, we didn't want you to find out this way, but since you didn't there's no reason to lie. replied Billy, as he looked her in the eye. I don't love you! I care deeply for Mac and she feels the same. We were trying to keep it a secret so you wouldn't be hurt!"
"Yeah Brittany, we're really sorry. We didn't do this on purpose, it just...happened." Mac said as she looked from Brittany's face to the floor. No matter what she knew Brittany was hurting and all Mac could think of was how she would feel if it had happened to her.
"You didn't mean for it to happen! You're sorry! Is that supposed to make me feel better?" asked Brittany, her voice rising with every word.
"Settle down Brit, it's not the end of the world. We said we're sorry! Can't you just accept this and move on?" Billy asked.
"Billy...How could you do this to me? Don't you know how much I care for you?" she cried with tears filling her eyes. Brit still hadn't moved from where she was standing and it was beginning to make Billy very nervous....
"Come sit down and we'll talk about this." he said as he sat down on the couch again. Mac slowly sat on the arm of the couch next to him. He reached over and took her hand. He needed to touch her, he needed to feel her strength while this was happening. The gesture didn't go unnoticed by Brittany and it only made her fury grow.
"Sit, you want me to sit? How can I ever be near you again Billy Abbott? And her.....why would you choose her over me. We're from the same class, made from the same stature. She's nonthing but street trash." screamed Brit as she walked to stand in front of them. At that remark Mac's face went white and Billy's anger began to grow as well!
"How dare you say something like that! Mac is the most caring, loving, and beautiful person I have ever met. That's more than I can say for you! She also tried to be nice to you, why I don't know!" he said letting go of Mac's trembling hand and standing to face Brit.
"Mac's none of those things. She's a liar, a sneak, and a few other things that aren't polite to mention!" she screamed at him. Her eyes were blazing as she pushed past Billy to face Mac who had moved next to the fireplace. You'll regret this Mac. I swear you'll regret this! I don't know how, but some day soon I'll ruin your life the way you've ruined mine. Watch your back!" she rasped out. With that she headed towards the door, picked up her purse that she'd dropped earlier, and walked out the door, slamming it behind her.....
All they could do was stand there and stare at the door. Billy soon noticed that Mac wasn't moving or saying a word. "Mac...." he whispered. At the sound of his voice she jumped and then broke into tears. Billy rushed to her and took her in his arms. Shhh...Don't cry. Don't believe anything she said." he whispered into her ear. He stroked her hair with his left hand while his right one was wrapped tightly around her waist, holding her close. Slowly her tears stopped and she backed away. Billy placed his hands on her waist as she spoke,
"I told you she'd be upset! I told you and now look what happened!"
"It's going to be okay he smiled, but a sudden thought made it soon fade. Now all we have to do is deal with my mother" he sighed. And if I know Brit we don't have to tell her." that made Mac gasped.
"No, no she can't tell your mom!" she said. "Jill will ruin everything!"
"No, it's better this way. he stated. Once my mother knows, we can be together!"
"Hello....in case you've forgotten, your mother hates me!" replied Mac. More tears welled in her eyes and Billy was quick to wipe them away.
"She can't tell me who to care about. And I care about you! he smiled pulling her close to envelope her into his arms. He hugged her tight and she held on for dear life, afraid their happiness would soon come to abrupt end. When they finally let go he said, I've been thinking about this a lot. Everyone but my mother and Brittany have no problem with you. They will be thrilled for us. All we have to do is get my mother to confront us in front of at least Jack and Ashley, or even your grandmother, and then we're free. Everyone will stick up for us. If my mother tries to come between us, I'll just forget her. She won't be a part of my life....ever. If I can't have you in my life, then my life's not worth living, don't you see that?"
Mac walked over to the sofa and plopped down to let what Billy had just said sink in.
"What are you trying to say Billy? I get the feeling there's more." She said, looking at him square in the eyes. Billy walked over and sat down next to her. He took her hand and could tell she was holding her breath waiting for his next words.
"What I'm trying to say is something I've been trying to say for quite awhile now. What I'm trying to say is that....is that...I love you Mac!!" Now it was Billy's turn to hold his breath. He'd given her his heart and he didn't know if she'd take it. He slowly lifted his gaze to meet her's. And what he saw made hi heart soar. She was smiling at him and before he realized what was happening, she was leaning forward and kissing him with such passion he truly felt light headed. Mac broke the kiss long enough to reply.
"I love you too, Billy. I have since the day we met!" Billy gently pushed Mac down on to the couch and deepened the kiss with all his heart and soul. Mac knew that no matter what happened in the end between her and Billy that she would always remember this moment. She wished she could stop time, in fact they both wished it.
"Well, well....what do we have here????" Said an all to familiar voice.......
Billy and Mac looked up to see a furious Jill standing in the exactly the same spot where Britt had stood a little over an hour ago.
"I was hoping you'd both still be here. Jill hissed. Mac I thought I told you to keep your hands off my son! She said, her voice rising.
"Mom, look, I know that for some reason you don't like Mac, but I love her and there's nothing you can do about it." Billy said grabbing tightly onto Mac's hand.
"You love her? You have no idea what love is! Besides she's nothing but a liar, a sneak, and not to meantion a little witch!" Said Jill angrily.
"Look mom... Replies Billy his voice rising over everything else. I am going to tell you the same thing I told Britt. Mac is the most beautiful, friendly, caring, and loving person I have ever known and if you can't accept that and be happy for me, for us, then I don't want you in my life!"
"Billy, Jill gasped you don't mean that!"
"Yes mother, I do." He said putting his arm around Mac and pulling her close.
"Billy your not thinking clearly, its apparent to me that she's cast some spell over youand managed to get her claws into you, but can't you see through her?" Asked Jill.
"Jill, why can't you just be happy for us?" Mac asked speaking for the first time.
"Was I speaking to you? Let me tell you one little thing, you little...."
"That's enough Jill.... "Came another voice from the door way.
All three turned to see Jack enter the kitchen with Ashly in toe. I see the cats put of the bag." Jack said.
"Am I missing something here?" Ashley asked.
"Yeah, a whole lot and your not the only one." Jack replied.
"You two just mind your own business! snapped Jill. This concerns only me, my son, and Mac!"
"That's what you think." Jack replies with a smile.
"Look you guys, this concserns me and Mac, nobody else. Billy said as he holds tightly to Mac. The way I see it is your either happy for us or your not. Either way, Mac and I are together."
"I still don't see what you see in her hissed Jill. She's nothing like you, nothing like us!"
"Says who? asked Billy. There's nothing you can do mom! "
"We'll just see about that! Jill says angrily and with that she was out the door slamming it behind her.
"So I take it all your problems are solved?" asked Jack.
"No way, Jill is not happy and neither is Brittany." replied Mac moving with Billy to sit on the couch. Billy leans back on the couch and puts his arm around Mac, but stillooks quite upset.
"There is no way this is over with. There's only one thing that is solved, and that is that Mac and i don't have to sneak around anymore!" He smiles and places a kiss on her temple. Mac smiles too, but soon remembers another person about to be hurt.
"Oh my God Billy, what about Raul? Mac asks. He'll be so hurt, who knows what he'll do!"
"Its ok Mac, we'll deal with it, we've dealt with everything else." Billy said.
"Look you two, Ash and I will leave you to talk but remember we're here to help. Jack said. I do wish however that you two would share more about this with me!"
"Okay Jack, we'll talk tomorrow Billy replied. Jack and Ashley said there goodnights and headed upstairs. Now that we're alone...."Billy said with a sly smile as he leaned in for a kiss.
"Oh Billy..." giggled Mac. Billy streched out on the couch and slid Mac dowb next to him.
"Stay with me all night." Billy said . We'll sleep right here and I promise to behave myself! He rubbed his hand slowly up and down her thigh, it sent chills through her body and made it hard to say no.
"Billy, you know I can't, what would your parents think? she asked.
"Don't you trust me? he said. I just want to know what it feels like to hold you all night in my arms!"
"I know, I want the same thing, but we can't." she replied with a sigh.
"Okay, Okay, I understand I won't push. he replied. So What shall we do tomorrow?"
"Oh I really don't know, why don't you surprise me? She said dreamily. All she could think was wat if felt like to be here in his arms, so close to him. I could stay here forever she thought to herself.
"Okay, meet me at our spot tomorrow afternoon, say around two o'clock? he asked.
"Sure. that sounds great. she replied smiling. What do you have planned?"
"Sorry you said surprise. so it will be a surprise you'll get." Billy laughed. he leaned down and trailed his lips along her neck and then up to her cheek and to lips. Mac rolled over and leaned into Billy. She wrapped her arms around his neckto deepen the kiss and then let Billy take control. They finally broke apart and then shared a few sweet kisses before Mac sat up.
"What's the matter?" he asked.
"Oh nothing, its just getting late, and I should really head home." she replied with a faint smile on her lips.
"No Billy groaned not yet!"
"Yes, I don't want to go, but I have too. she replied. She stood up and shugged on her coat and grabbed her backpack. I'll see you tomorrow." She said as she walked to the door.
" Hey wait a minute, your not going anywhere" said Billy as he wrapped his arms around her and gave her one last long kiss goodnight. The both broke apart smiling.
"I'll miss you!"
"Yeah I'll miss you too, tomorrow seems like forever. he replied. Mac gave him one last peck on the lips and then she headed out into the cold night air. Billy closed the door and leaned against it. I love you Mac more then you'll ever know." he said and then he headed upstairs.
The next afternoon Mac approached the the playhouse with many thoughts running through her head. What did Billy have in store for her today? Did he really love her like he said he did? What would Jill do to keep them apart? Mostly she was thinking of what the day would bring. She opened the door and ger heart was filled with more happiness then she could handle! There was music playing and there was roses everywhere and there was lunch on the ground like a picnic. What surprised her the most was the playhouse was spottless. The dust and spiderwebs were gone. It was perfect. Where was Billy she wondered to herself. She walked to the middle of the room and picked up one of the red roses and sniffed its fragrance that it let out. "I am so lucky." She said aloud. Suddenly strong safe arms encircled her and Billy voice sounded like puure honey as he spoke in her ear.
"Your wrong, I am the lucky one." He whispered. His voice and touch sent shivers through her whole body; all she could do was sigh with contentment. Finally she turned around to face him. I am so glad to see you. He said with a smile.When she didn't reply he said aren't you happy to see me, to be here with me?"
"You know I am." She said and then she stepped forward and threw her arms around him. He hugged her close and breathed in her sweet smell.
When they stepped apart he took her hand and said "Are you hungery?"
"Yeah, actually I am." she answered.
"Well then come and sit next to me and we'll see what's in the basket. He sat down on the banket and pulled Mac with him. She tried to peek into the basket but Billy laughed and gently pushed her back down. Hold on, this is susposed to be a surprise remember?"
" I know, but I just can't stand it anymore she whined. Please Billy! " She tried to crawl over to him but he only pushed her back to her seat. Finally when she settled down he began to open the basket...
He pulled out two peanut butter and jelly sandwhiches, two cans of Sprite, two apples, some potato chips and finally two cupcakes for dessert. "Ooo Billy, all my favorites" she squealed .
"I know its nothing fancy, but I wanted it to be sweet and simple. Sort of like I wish our relationship could be, wait it will be some day."
"I love it Billy, it means so much that you would do this for me." As she leaned forward to kiss him. He pulled her close and was finally forced to break away when he heard her stomach growl. They both laughed and then he handed her a sandwhich.
"I just want you to enjoy the day, its ours to do with as we please. Plus I have a few more surprises up my sleeve. " He said before he bit into an apple. After they finished eating he stood and pulled Mac with him.
"Billy what are you doing?" she laughted.
He walked over to the stero and pushed play. He waled back to her with a sly smile on his face. And as the music began he pulled her into his arms. "I want to dance with you, but this time there's no crowd around like at prom, but if I remember correctly we didn't notice them the last time. He didn't have to persuade her, she just wrapped her arms around his neck and they moved like one to the music. The song that played was "I Need You" by Leann Rimes, and the rest were songs from prom to remind them of that night. Every now and then he would lean down and kiss her neck or her lips and every time she just mealted a little more. After a while the music stopped and they just stood there in each others arms wishing this moment never had to stop. Finally they stepped apart and went to set on the couch.
"So what do you want to do now?" She asked him.
"Do you feel like a walk?" he asked.
"Sure." she replied. They stood and walked outside to find the summer sunshine shinning down as warm as ever. They walked along the stream hand and hand laughing and talking to each other. And then a craving hit them, the stopped for a kiss, which was quite often. Later they streached out on the stream bank and watched the clouds float by. An hour laster they headed toward the play house to gather there things.
Once inside Billy said "Do you want to come to the house and watch a video or listen to a video?" he asked with a sly smile.
"Sure I 'll do anything to be with you, well almost anything" she laughted. Before they left Billy bent down and scooped up a rose and handed it to her.
"For you my sweet he said. I'll bring the rest over tomorrow. He said as they followed the path to the house. As they approached the house Billy said when Jack gets home we'll talk to him and tell him what he wants to know and then we can have dinner together."
"Don't push your luck Billy!" She laughted. They entred the house hand and hand to find someone waiting for them......
Billy and Mac stood frozen in the entryway at the sight of Raul standing there in the living room. They dropped hands and Billy was the first to speak. "Hey Raul, What's going on?" Billy asked.
"I don't know Billy, why don't you tell me?" Raul asked.
"What do you want to know?" Billy asked.
"I don't know, let's start with why you were holding Mac's hand a few minutes ago. Then you can tell me what Brittany walked in on last night." Raul replied.
"Well I can answer both questions with one answer. Mac and I are together, a couple." answered Billy.
"What? he asked. Is that why you dumped me Mac?" he asked
"Well....yeah Raul it is. I didn't want to hurt you, but its obvious I have. "
"Your D***right you have. Mac I love you, don't you see that?"
"I am sorry man, but Mac and I love each other" Billy stated. With that comment an angry Raul lunged at Billy ready to fight for what he thought was his. Billy was in no way prepared and was knocked to the floor.
"Billy, Raul, stop this, stop this now!" Mac cried. Raul was on top of Billy swinging his fists, but Billy was soon free and on his feet.
"Raul, I don't want to fight with you Billy said.
"She was mine man, and you stole her from me, she was mine!" Raul yelled.
"Raul I am sorry, but we can't help the way we feel." Mac said. Raul said nothing more. He just turned and walked out the door. Mac ran to Billy who was now sitting on the couch nursing his bloody lip and nose.
"Oh Billy are you all right?" she cried.
"Yeah I guess, he said with a wince of pain. Mac stood and went to the kitchen for some cold rags. When she returmed he was streched out on the couch he sat up long enough for her to sit down then he layed his head on her lap. She wiped away the blood and his nose soon stopped bleeding. Billy sat up and pulled Mac into his arms. As he stroked her hair back and whispered what would I do without you?"
There moment was broken by Jack who was coming home from his day at work. "Hey Kiddos he said. He walked into the livingroom and then did a double take when he saw Billy's face. Yikes, did you collide with a train or something?" he asked.
"Not exactly, more like Raul's fist. He was here when we got back from.....when we got home." Billy replied remembering not to reveal there secret place.
"Say no more...said Jack I take it he wasn't very understanding?"
"No, No he wasn't. Mac said. As she ran her finger softly down Billy's tender jaw and acrossed his lips. We hurt him pretty badly. "
"We should have been the ones to tell him" Billy said.
"Yeah you should have, but its to late now replied Jack. He'll get over it sometime it will just take time." Billy and Mac could only look at Jack and wonder if what he was saying was true. So what else is going on with you two?" he asked.
"Well Jack, we've decided its time to let you in on what's going on with my mother and Mac." Billy replied looking at Mac with loving eyes. She only smiled wondering if it was the right thing.
Jack sat down in a chair across from them and said " Okay, let's have it!"
"Well Jack, its like this" Billy started. Billy and Mac went through the detective, the letter, and her worries about her mom and step dad. And nothing they said about Jill seemed to surprise him. He waited til they finished speaking .
"Okay, but I have a feeling there's more" pushed Jack.
"No Jack, that's...."
"Wait Billy, there's more that you don't know" interruped Mac....
"What do you mean? asked Billy with a worried look
"Well I guess you should just tell you the whole reason I don't want my mother and step father to come for me," she said shuddering.
"Okay Mac, why?" asked Jack Cautiously.
"Well this is really hard...but" she had to stop because she her eyes filled with tears and a sob escaped her throat.
"Oh Mac, what's wrong what could be so bad?" asked Billy as he pulled her into his arms.
No Billy, you need to know this. You see my mother drinks quite a lot and so does my step father, but the only difference is when my step father drinks quite a lot he becomes angry and beats my mother....and...me. she cried. I can't go back to that I won't! If she comes for me I'll be forced to run away and no one will ever find me!" Billy continued to hold Mac and stroke her hair softly.
"Its going to be okay Mac. I'll never let anyone hurt you ever again." He vowed and then he bent and planted a single kiss on top of her head.
Jack waited until her eyes were dry and her head was clear before he spoke. " Look you guys, I am going to have to sleep on this for a few days and then I'll get back to you, Okay?" he asked.
"Okay they said in unison. Jack stood and went upstairs and left the two of them alone.
"Billy, Kay and Brock don't know anything about this, so you can't say anything " she said seriously.
"All right its just between the three of us." he said with a faint smile. Now how about that movie?"
"You know, its all ready eight o'clock I should head home. I am really beat." she said.
"Okay, I understand." he said. She stood and he helped her into her jacket and they walked to the door.
"Today was the best day of my life Billy and I thank you for that."she said with a smile.
"It was great for me too." he replied. Billy leaned down and kiss er softly, but she wanted, needed more. She ran her fingers through his hair and pulled him closer. He in turn wrapped his arms around her and pulled her even closer. They stepped back and both sighed with happiness.
"Thanks again, it meant a lot she said as she stepped out to the front porch.
"The pleasure was all mine. he said before he closed the door and watched as she disappeared. He leaned against the door and sighed All mine." Pulling himeslf away from the door and his thoughts he headed upstairs to lay and think of one thing Mac!
The next morning Mac woke to the ringing of her phone next to her bed. She rolled over and looked at her clock eight o'clock. "Who would be calling? she wondered. She let it ring once more before answering. "Hello?"
"Hey beautiful. Billy's voice replied.
"Hey." she laughted.
"Did I wake you?" Billy asked.
"Yeah, but its ok." Her voice still filled with sleep.
"Look I taked to Jack early this morning and he said we're not going to start the website thing until tomorrow because of everything that has happened. He's going to call a meeting later this evening over here so....that leaves this morning and this afternoon open. Can I see you? "he asked.
"Of course she laughted, what time?"
"As soon as you can get that gorgeous body of yours over here." He said in a smooth voice.
"You think you know all the right words to say don't you?" she said.
"Do I?" he asked.
"Yeah you do, she said laughing. She climbed out of bed and walked to the bathroom to turn on the shower. So I'll get ready and be over in a while okay?"she said.
"Sure. he replied.
" I'll see you soon." She said with a smile.
"Mac wait..... I love you," he said.
" I love you too" she answered and then hung up the phone. She smiled and headed into the bathroom....
An hour later she approached the steps of the estate and rang the bell. Billy appeared and opened the door. "I thought you'd never get here." He said sweeping her into his arms. He kissed her gently then took her hand and lead her into the living room.
"So what are we doing today?" Mac asked.
"Oh I thought we'd spend the day out by the pool." he said grinning.
"But I didn't bring a suit." she said.
"Oh well, you can borrow one from the pool house he repllied. Come on. He said putting his arm around her and walking out the back door. Here there are plenty in that closet he pointed. I'll go put on my trunks and meet you by the pool." He left the room and she stood there not sure of what she would find in the closet. She finally opened the door and was amazed at all the bright colors. She was torn between the blue one and the peach one, but in the end chose the peach one. She dressed quickly and headed to the pool. Billy finished changing and then headed back to the pool too. When he arrived he found that Mac wasn't there yet, so he dove in. When he resurfaced Mac was standing on the pool steps watching him. Her beauty mesmerized him. She walked ito the wather until it was chest deep and then stopped. The bikini she chose was the exact color of her prom dress and it brought the memory back of that fateful night. She beckoned him with her finger, "Come here Billy" He swam to her and she wrapped her arms around his neck and layed the most earth shattering kiss on his lips he had ever had. "Wow" he murmured with a smile. All she could do was laugh and began to swin to the other end of the pool. As she began to swim away Billy grabbed her ankle and pulled her under, When she resurfaced she was furious. "Billy, what was that for?" She asked. His only answer was to splash her. By this time she was so frustrated that she splashed him back. Billy's face turned sober.
"You didn't just do that" he said.
"Yes I did. She replied with a smirk. You deserved it!"
"You'd better swin, cause when I catch you, your going under!" He replied with a serious face.
Mac squealed and headed for the pool steps. She climbed them and ran to the poolhouse. Billy was too quick and soon she was over his shoulder and being carried to the pool.
"Billy, no. Please don't!" she squealed. Too late, she was being tossed into the pool. Billy dove in with her into his arms and spun her around. His world was soon filled with her laughter and he hoped it always would be.
While Mac and Billy were having their fun there was a serious conversation going on at Jabot.
"Mrs. Abbott, how could this happen?" whined Brittany.
"There's only one way I can think of and it has to be you!" she hissed.
"What do you mean?" asked Brittany angrily.
"Obviously, you didn't keep my son happy enough!" she yelled. "That has to be the only answer!"
"But Mrs. Abbott, I did everything you told me." cried Brittany. "How can I get him back?"
"I don't have the faintest idea dear." she said. "This isn't the first time you've let me down. So as far as I'm concerned, you're on your own." replied Jill.
"What?" cried Brittany. "There has to be something we can do, Billy and I have to be together. We're meant to be together!"
"It looks like to me my son doesn't see it that way." replied Jill in a rude tone. I tried to change his mind, but it couldn't be done, so for now there's nothing we, sorry, I can do!"
"Well let me tell you something, it seems to me like you didn't try hard enough. It also seems to me like you look out for number one and nobody else, so if you won't help me you may not like it!" Brittany said.
"Fine dear, I'm done with you! Close the door on your way out." Brittany stormed out of Jill's office and slammed the door. Once outside she whispered,
"'If I can't have him neither can Mac, I'll make sure of that!'
Later that afternoon Billy and Mac were lying on a lounge chair wrapped in each other's arms.
"This is great!" sighed Mac as Billy smoothed his hands over her stomach.
"It sure is." he said with a smile.
"Are you hungry?" he asked.
"A little." she answered.
"Well move for a minute and I'll get you something." he said.
"Did I say I was hungry for food?" she asked shyly. She leaned her head back on Billy's chest and looked up at him with mischievous eyes. He got the picture and bent down and captured her lips with his own.
"Now, I'm hungry and I mean food." he said finishing the kiss with a smile. She walked into the house and returned with a bowl of grapes and strawberries.
"Sit up for a minute." she said. He complied and she sat behind him and laid his head in her lap. She took a bite of a strawberry and then fed the rest to him.
"Mmmm good! Careful! he warned. A guy could get used to this!"
"It's fun to treat you like a prince since you treat me like a princess all the time." she replied feeding him a grape.
"You're so beautiful." he sighed reaching up to stroke her face. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the feel of his touch. And those eyes." he said when she opened them to look into his. I could get lost in them forever!"
"Don't be silly." she laughed.
"I'm serious. Brittany doesn't even sparkle next to you." he said sitting up to face her. You're the most beautiful girl I've ever met. I really hope you know that." he said touching her face again. She smiled tears filling her eyes and he leaned in to kiss her softly and just long enough to prove he meant every word he had just spoken.
After Billy and Mac were dressed and ready to go they decided to go to Crimson Lights for some drinks. Mostly they wanted to show everone that they were together, but they didn't tell each other that. When they entered they saw Raul sitting by himself in the corner at the computer. They decided to take a booth and order before they approached him. "Wait Billy, let me talk to him." Mac said putting a hand on his arm.
"Your right, why are you always right?" he asked with a smile.
"Cause I am me. She said over her shoulder. She approached Raul placing a soft hand on his shoulder. Raul?" she asked. She felt him flinch, but wasn't sure wither it was from her touch or by her being there all together.
"What do you want?" he asked not looking at her. She sat down next to him and thought carefully about her response.
"I am worried about you, are you ok?" she asked. He turned to look at her with tears in his eyes.
"Does it look like I am ok?"
"Look I am really sorry I hope you realize that, we didn't want to hurt you, really we didn't!" I hope you understand? I just didn't love you and I thought I was doing the right thing. Can you forgive me? she asked.
"I am not sure Mac, I am just not sure" he responed and then he stood up and walked out the door, not looking back. Mac stood sadly and walked back to Billy.
"How did it go? he asked. Not too well I take it since he walked out."
"Yeah, and I expected that. She replied sitting next to him in the booth. He sild his arm around her and squeezed her shoulder. The gesture was enough to reassure her that things would get better with time and she smiled at his thoughtfulness. I just wish people could be happy for us." she said sadly.
"I know I do too." he replied.
Just as their drinks arrived Brittany and Rianna walked through the door. They sent angery looks there way and sat at the table. After there order was taken Brittany approached there table....
"Well well don't you two look cozy" She said with a smirk.
"Look Britt, we don't want any trouble" Billy said.
"I am not making trouble she said a little two sweetly. I was just saying hi. Are you two going to the meeting later tonight?"
"Yeah we are, are you?" asked Mac.
"Of course, I have to since I am the star. she replied. Well actually Billy and I are the stars, aren't we Billy?"
"No Britt, we're not the stars, everyone is a star. We're all doing this together remember?" he said.
"Sure Billy, whatever you say! Well I'll see you two there" she said. She simled and headed back to Rianna.
"What was that all about, I thought you were mad?" Rianna asked.
"I am, but to make my plan work, they have to think I am fine with this whole disaster" she said.
"Whatever you say Rianna replied. What is your plan anyway?"
"All in good time Rianna, all in good time" Brittany replied.
"That was werid Mac said still not beliving that Brittany could be so calm. I think she's up to something!"
"Naw, looks like to me she just needed to blow off some steam, and now that she has she's fine. She'll find someone new, remember this is Brittany we're talking about" Billy said.
"That's eactly my point, I still don't trust her"replied Mac glancing over at Brittany. Just watch out I have a feeling that we haven't heard the last of her. They finished there drinks and then headed out the door to Mac's house. Do you want to come in for awhile?"
"Sure" he replied. Mac unlocked the front door and walked into the living room.
"So what do you want to do?" Mac asked.
"I have an idea" Billy said he suddenly pulling Mac into his arms and kissed her gently.
"That was fun, but we can't do that all night" she laughed.
"Wanna bet?" he laughed kissing her again!
Suddenly Kay walked into the room and stopped in her tracks. Mac spotted her first and stepped away from Billy. "Grandma" she gasped.
"Hello Mac Billy she said with a puzzled look on her face. What's going on here? she asked.
"Well you see, Mac and I are sort of together now" Billy replied taking Mac's hand. Kay stood there for a minute looking at both of them and then broke into a smile.
"I was wondering when you two would see the light, she exclaimed walking over to hug Mac.
"You mean your not mad?" Mac asked.
On the contrary my dear. I am estatic she replied. You deserve some happiness! I am not sure Jill will have the same opinion!"
"No, no she doesn't replied Billy but she'll have to deal with it!"
"So she knows? Kay asks. And you lived to tell about it?"
"Yeah, Britt walked in on us the other night and went straight and to my mother and Rau"l replied Billy.
"Both Brittany and Jill made threats, but Raul just threw a few punches and left" Mac said.
"Ah, Raul, I am sure you hurt him badly stated Kay. That explains his absence the last couple of days. You said Jill made threats?" Kay asked.
"Well, no not really but she yelled and screamed then Jack and Ash arrived to save the day answered Billy. My mom can huff and puff all she wants to, but it won't do her any good, because now that we're together we're staying together!"
"I hope your right Billy, for your sake and for Mac's." Kay replied. "Well, just know I am happy for you two and all that counts in your happiness."
"Thanks grandma" Mac said as Kay walked back into the kitchen.
"Well there's one more person on our side" Billy smiled.
"Yeah and she's someone who counts." replied Mac. "Now all I have to do is tell my father."
"Tell me what?" asked Brock as he walked into the room......
"Ah well dad, Billy and I thought you should know that we're together." replied Mac with a faint smile.
"You mean as a couple?" he asked.
"Yes, Mr. Browning." replied Billy before Mac could answer.
"Well now, this is a surprise isn't it." he said. "And please call me Brock."
"Are you okay with that dad?" asked Mac.
"Well I suppose, but what happened to Raul, and to Britanny?" he asked.
"I broke up with Raul last week and Brittany walked in on us the other night, so we didn't get the chance to tell her, but I think she got the picture." said Mac.
"Ah, I see." he said with a smile. "Well honey, I guess if this is what you want, than I approve." he said. Mac threw herself into her father's arms.
"Thanks!" she said stepping back after she realized what she had done. "This is what makes me happy" she said. Billy stepped forward slightly and shook Brock's hand.
"If you hurt my little girl, I'll have to hurt you." he said with a serious look, which made Billy sweat, then smiled when he saw a grin on Brock's face.
"Don't worry sir, um Brock, I would never hurt Mac." replied Billy.
"You make sure of that. Now if you'll excuse me I'm going to find something to eat in the kitchen, hopefully Esther's over her health food kick." he laughed.
"Good luck." Mac said with a grin as he disappeared into the kitchen hallway. "Well, that went better than I thought." sighed Mac.
"Yeah, I wasn't sure how he felt, but I'm glad he's with us." replied Billy as he sat on the couch.
"At least its not us against the world anymore." said Mac as she sat next to him. He reached over and took her hand. He brought it to his lips and kissed each finger softly. He then pulled Mac into his lap.
"We really should head over to Jabot." she said softly. "We don't want to be late!"
'In a minute.' he whispered and leaned in to kiss her. Their lips met and it was like the first time all over again. They shared several soft kisses and broke apart. "I could do that for hours." he said with a grin. Mac stood up and pulled Billy with her.
"Come on Romeo!" she said. "Let's go, there's time for that later!"
"Promise?" he asked.
"Yeah, I promise." she said as they walked out the door hand in hand.
They were the first to arrive in the boardroom so Mac sat on the huge rectangular table. "Its later" Billy said approaching her.
"Billy, not now" she said.
"Yes, now and always he said as he stood before her. He leaned in and kissed her, but this time it was a little more intense.
When he stepped away she said That line gets me every time!"
"I know" he said with a smirk.
Just then Jack, Ashley, and Phyllis arrived. "Hey little brother Jack said. We need to talk later. Mac you should be there too!"
"Okay" Billy said. Mac slipped off the table and took a seat at the table next to Billy. He grabbed her hand under the table and sighed. "He has to have an idea" Billy whispered into her ear and she nodded in agreement. Soon after that Jill, Raul, Brittany, and Rianna arrived. They sat on the opposite side of the table all with scowls on their faces.
"Well since everyone's here let's begin Jack said. As you all know there's been some interesting developments in the last 48 hours. And we're here to discuss these "developments"and how they will affect the project" Jack said.
"Does anyone have any problems right now that they would like to voice?" Phyllis asked cutting in.
"I don't think you have to worry about any of us dropping out, am I right guys?" Brittany asked. Everyone shook their head "yes" except for Raul.
"Raul, do you have a problem with this?" Jill asked angrily.
"No Mrs. Abbott, I am fine with it" he replied.
"Good this is going better then I expected" Jack sighed in relief. Well I guess that's done. Before we finish, does anyone have any questions?" Jack asked. No one answered so the meeting ended.
Jill stood and said "Brittany Rianna come with me. I want to speak to you both." Mac looked at Billy worried and he squeezed her hand for reassurance as the three filed out of the room.
"Well Phyllis said I guess I'll go home and get some rest tomorrow will be busy."
You do that" Jack said as he turned his back to her frowning as she left the room. Jack and Ashley left soon after Phyllis did because Ashley said she was tired and she needed her rest. Jack whole heartedly agreed. That left Raul, Mac, and Billy. "Well Mac, I should be getting you home" Billy said uncomfortably.
"Yeah I am beat, and following Phyllis around tomorrow will be a job all its own" she replied. They stood and started to leave the room, but stopped.
"Aren't you comin man?" Billy asked.
"Yeah, in a minute" he replied.
"Okay, well we'll see you tomorrow" replied Billy. Mac lifted her eyes to meet Raul's, but there was nothing there but a cold stare. Billy grabbed Mac hand and they left the room.
Mean while in Jill's office there a heated conversation was going on. "I want to know what your plans are Brittany, and I want to know now!" hissed Jill.
"I don't have to tell you a thing" Brittany replied curtly.
"Wanna bet, if it involves my son I have a right to know Jill replied her anger growing. And I want to know right now!"
"Its nothing serious, just a little revenge on Mac, it has nothing to do with Billy." She replies turning her back on Jill.
"Oh I see, you want my son back and you'll do anything to get him back, even if it means removing Mac completely from the picture replies Jill. Well my dear, I think I can help you with that!"
"Who says I want your help?" Brittany asked.
"I said so, you see, you need me. I have a way of removing Mac without getting your hands dirty, without even being blamed" smiled Jill.
Brittany siled knowing she had Jill just were she wanted her. She turned to face Jill "I am listening....
Raul wandered up and down the empty halls of Jabot for quite a while. And by accident he happen to stumble across Jill and Brittany's conversation.
"How do I know your not fooling with me?" Brittany asked.
"Because I want Mac out of the picture as much as you do" replies Jill. By the way, where do you fit into this Rinna?"
"Ah, Rianna was going to help me with my plan, but I like yours much better! We'll finds some way for her to help, and she'll be quite useful" Brittany replied.
"Well then, let me make spme phone calls, and I'll let you know more when I do. Jill said. You can go now."
Raul stepped away from the door and down the hall around the corner, so he was out of sight. "What are they planning he wondered? I have to warn Mac! He remind himself well I have to learn more about this plan before I approach her he whispered aloud. He head off down the hall into the elevator. I won't let anything happen to Mac!" he whispered.
Brittany and Rianna walked in the oppsite direction and didn't even notic Raul sneak down the hall. "Are you really going to believe her?" Rianna asked.
"For now Briitany replied. Our plan will just be on the back burner for awhile. Then if Jill's plan doesn't work, we'll reveal ours, and when we do it will be to late, so no wone will know what happen! They laughed but Brittany grew serious. I wonder" she said aloud.
"What?" Rianna asked.
"I wonder if we could get Raul involved? replied Brittany.
"He's pretty miserable, he'd do anything to get Mac back" Rianna said with a frown as she and Brittany climbed into her car and drove away.
Billy walked Mac to her door and unlocked the door for her. "So I guess I'll see you tomorrow?"he said not wanting to leave.
"Do you want to come in for a minute?" she asked hopefully.
"Sure, I'd love to" he said with a smile. They entered the dark house and walked quietly into the living room.
"Come upstairs with me so we don't wake everyone up" she whispered.
"Are you sure?" he said in a hushed voice. In reply she tugged on his hand and they headed upstairs. They walked into her room and closed the door before switching on the lamp light. Mac took off her sandals and then stretched out on her bed. Billy did the same and stretched out next to her. He held her into his arms awhile and then noticed she hadn't said a word. He looked at her face and saw that she was asleep with a smile on her lips. He stood up and walked across the room and looked her door tightly and switched off the light. As he climed into bed next to her he knew she wouldn't mind. They had been through a lot in the last few days and they needed to be together. He kissed the top of her head and then snuggled close to her, he was asleep in no time. Later that night Billy woke to Mac calling his name softly. He opened his eyes and found her tossing and turning in her sleep. He knew she was having a nightmare. He reached over and drew her into his arms and whispered soothing words into her ear. She was soon sleeping peacfully again curled up in his arms. 'This is the way it should always be, as he drifted off to sleep. I will always be here for you.....' he whispered.