When Love Survives
Part 1
Written and Copyright 2000 by Ashley Sullivan
Two years later Mac and Billy were still engaged and very much in love. It was three months until Mac's eighteenth birthday and things were getting busy. Their junior year had flown by and now their senior year was half way over. Things were finally falling into place. After they were married they had decided to move into the Abbots guest house until they made other plans. Not everyone in the two families were happy about the up coming marriage but,they had accepted it because it was what Mac and Billy wanted. Raul and Rianna were still together, and were also very much in love. The two couples did most everything together. Brittany was still where she belong, and they hadn't heard from her since that fateful night. Things were perfect, or so everyone thought!
Mac walked to her locker smiling to herself thinking of Billy. Rianna walked up to her and said "Hey Mac how's it going?" she asked.
"Pretty good Mac answered. You?"
" Good, look I was wondering would you like to go shopping with me?" Rianna asked.
"Right now?" Mac asked.
"Sure" Rianna said.
"Okay, let's go Mac laughted. Rianna and Mac became best friends quickly. The did most ever thing together, and Rianna was going to be Mac's maid of honor. So how are things going with Raul?" Mac asked.
"Great, we're going out tonight! I can't believe its been almost two years Rianna sighed. I mean we've had our fights and broken up before, but we always find our way back to each other."
"I am so happy for you both" Mac replied.
As they walked down the hall Billy approached them "Hey sweetheart he said giving her a hug then a kiss. Where are you off to?" he asked.
"We're going shopping" Rianna laughted.
"Again?" he said.
"Hey there's always time for shopping" Rianna replied.
"Well okay he said taking Mac's hand. I guess I'll see you tonight" he said.
"Tonight?" she asked.
"Yeah, remember your coming over for dinner" he said.
"Oh gosh, I almost forgot she said. Okay I'll see you tonight! She kissed him goodbye then walked of the building.
"How could you forget dinner with his family?" Rianna asked.
"I don't know, I've just been so busy" Mac sighed as they climbed into her car. A present from her grandmother on her seventeenth birthday. They drove the short distance into town and parked in the parking lot of the city mall. They spent three hours in the mall and bought quite a bit. Finally the headed back to the car and loaded their bags in the back and headed to Rianna's house. When they pulled to the driveway Rianna said "See you tomorrow!"
"Bye" Mac replied.
Mac walked into the house and up to her room. She unpacked her bags and hung up the items she had purchased. She then got ready for dinner. She pulled on a pair of nice jeans and a maroon sweater. She then headed back downstairs and out the door. Mac arrived early for dinner so she and Billy sat in the living room. "So did you find anything at the mall?" he asked.
"Yeah quite a lot actually." she answered with a smile.
"Anything for me?" he asked.
"Maybe?" she replied with a smile. Billy leaned back on the couch and pulled Mac onto his lap,
"You make me so happy" he whispered as he kissed her neck. She smiled down at him then kissed his lips.
"Hey lovebirds Jack said as he entered the living room. Dad said to tell you two dinner's ready."
"Come on" Billy said pulling Mac to her feet. They walked from the living room and took their places at the table.
"So, how are the wedding plans coming along? Ashley asked.
"Good, there are a few things left to do, but most of its done" Mac replied.
"Have you found a dress yet?" she asked. Billy sent her a warning look but she missed it. He knew that it was a sore subject with Mac. She'd been searching for months now and still hadn't found the "perfect" dress as she put it.
"No, No I haven't" she replied quietly.
"Oh don't worry, you will soon" replied Ashley. If you need anything just ask!"
"Thanks" Mac said. Billy reached beneth the table and squeezed her hand. Dinner went quickly with more talk of the wedding and business. While John, Jack, and Ashley talked of Jabot Billy and Mac excused themselves and headed back to the living room.
"God I don't know if I want to get involved in that" Billy said.
"Why not, its the family business?" Mac asked as she sat down on the couch. Billy streched out and layed his head on her lap.
"I just don't know if its for me" he said.
"Well, whatever you decide I am behind you" she said smiling down at him.
"How did I get so lucky?"he asked.
"I don't know" she laughted.
"Come here you" he said as he sat up and pulled her into his arms. As he kissed her Jack and John walked into the room.
"Opps Sorry" Jack said.
"God I can't wait til we have our own place" sighed Billy in frustration.
"Ah Billy, I think I am going to go home Mac laughted. Goodnight Jack and Mr. Abbott." she said.
"Mackenzie, how many times do I have to tell you, please call me John." John sighed.
"Sorry she replied. Walk me out Billy?" She asked with a mischievous smile.
"Wouldn't miss the chance he smiled. They walked out and stood by her car. Only five months til graduation he said. Then you'll be Mrs. Billy Abbot."
"I know, I can hardly wait she smiled. He pulled her close and kissed her tenderly. If you keep that up, I won't be able to resist you for another five months" she laughted.
"I am counting on that" he whispered into her ear.
"Billy....."she said seriously.
"I know, I know we waited this long, we can wait a little longer" he said kissing her again.
"I'll see you in the morning she said. I love you!"
"Love you too he said before closing her door. She waved and then drove down the driveway and through the front gates. I've waited this long Mackenzie, I can wait a little longer" he said as he watched her drive away.
A week later Mac and Billy celebrated their two year anniversary. Mac invited him over and fixed him dinner, something she did quite often. She served seafood pasta, Billy's favorite, with salad and french bread. He brought roses and a small box that was still hidden in his pocket. After dinner they walked into the living room and curled up in each other's arms. "I have something for you?" Billy whispered in her ear.
"Billy, I told you not to get me anything" She replied.
"I know, but I just couldn't resist" he said. He pulled the box out of his pocket and handed it to her. She unwrapped it, and when she opened it her eyes filled with delight. Lying on the black velvet was a heart pendent made of rubies.
"Oh Billy, its beautiful she cried. She hugged him close then kissed his soft lips. How did you know?" she asked.
"I asked Rianna" he replied.
"Oh I am going to kill her! she squealed. I love it and I love you! she cried giving him another hug. You make me the happiest woman alive!"
"And that makes me the happiest man alive" he smiled. They sat there for several more minutes then Billy stood claming he should go home. Mac walked him to the door and after they kissed and said goodnight he handed her an envelope.
"What's this?" she asked.
"Open it and see" was all he said and then he disappeared into the cold night. Mac walked upsrairs and to her room. When she had closed the door, she lit some candles and turned on her and Billy's song. She finally flopped down on her bed and opened the envelope. It read:
My Dearest Mackenzie,
Every time I lay my eyes on you my heart sings at every thought of spending the rest of my life with you. I lay awake at night wondering what our future holds, and where it will lead us. On this special day I remember not only the good thigs, but also the bad things that have brought us closer. You can't imagine what it feels like to hold you in my arms or to kiss your lips. Remember two years ago I left a note on your front door? Do you remember what it said? It said, 'Everybody's looking for that something. One thing that makes it all complete. You find it in the strangest places. Places you never knew it could be. Well for me it's waking up beside you, to watch the sun rise on your face. To know that I can say I love you at any time or place. It's the little things that only I know. Those things that make you mine!' I believe those words more today than I did then. All I want you to know is that I love you with my whole heart and soul. I know without a doubt that you feel the same way. Thank you Mackenzie for making me that happiest man in the world. To repay you I will spend the rest of my life trying to make you the happiest woman alive. Goodnight my sweet!
Love Always and Forever,
Billy
Mac looked up from the letter with tears in her eyes. He didn't have to try, she was already the happiest woman alive!
The next morning Mac awoke early for school. She dressed quickly and then headed downstairs. She grabbed an apple and then headed out the door. She arrived at school and headed to her locker. On her way she saw someone in the hall that closely resembled Brittany.
"Brittany!" she gasped. Mac tried to walk away, but it was too late.
"Mac." she said. "How's it going?"
"Brittany, what are you doing here?" asked Mac cautiously.
"What does it look like I'm doing?" she asked. "I'm going to school, I just re-enrolled."
All Mac could do was stand there in shock. "Ah, I gotta go." she said finally. Mac turned and hurried down the hall to see if she could find Billy.
"I'm not done with you yet Mackenzie." Brittany said under her breath as she headed in the other direction. Mac had ruined her life, sent her to a place where she didn't belong. Two long years she'd spent in the hell hole, 'getting the help she needed' as her parents put it. No, there was no way she was done with Mac. Mac would pay, and pay dearly! Mac found Billy out by his car talking to Raul and Rianna. When Billy saw her he asked, "Mac, what's wrong? You look like you've seen a....."
"It's Brittany!" she blurted out. "She's back!"
"What?" they all asked in disbelief.
"I just talked to her, she came up to me like nothing had ever happened." she cried. Billy pulled Mac into his arms and rubbed his hand up and down her back.
"It's okay Mac, nothings going to happen." he said softly.
"Come on let's go inside!" said Rianna. They all headed back into the building, hoping they wouldn't see Brittany, but she had been watching for them.
"Hey, guys!" she said from behind them. They all nearly jumped out of their skins in surprise. Billy turned to face her and said, "What do you want, Brittany?"
"I just wanted to say hi." she said. "It's been a long time!"
"Not long enough!" replied Raul.
Billy gasped tightly to Mac's hand and said, "How have you been Brit?"
"Oh you know, things could be better!" she replied. "Rianna, you haven't said much! Didn't you miss me?"
"Ah, sure Brittany." Rianna replied.
"I missed you too." Brittany said stepping forward to give her a hug. "Well, I'd love to stay and chat all day, but I have to get to class." she said. "See ya around!" As she walked away Billy said, "You're right Mac, she acts like nothings wrong!"
The day flew by quite quickly and soon the last bell rang. "Finally the weekend!" sighed Raul, as he walked with Billy to their lockers.
"So, what do you and Rianna have planned?" asked Billy.
"Oh nothing much, we might go see a movie or go to the basketball game tonight." replied Raul. "How about you anything special planned?"
"Ah, I thought Mac and I might get the last few loose ends tied up for the wedding." answered Billy.
"Hey, we still have to get fitted for our tuxes!" said Raul.
"Won't that be fun? Oh, I'm sure the girls will tag along to make sure we pick out the right ones!" laughed Billy.
"I wouldn't doubt it for a second!" replied Raul with a grin.
"Well, I better go find Mac." said Billy as he closed his locket. "Call me later, we should do something. Either just us or with the girls, we can figure it out later!"
"Sure man, see you later." called Raul. Billy headed off down the hall, but was stopped by a voice calling his name.
"Billy, Billy wait up!" called Brittany.
'Oh, great.' he thought to himself. 'Just what I need.'
"Hi!" she said finally stopping in front of him. "How's it going?"
"Good Brittany." he replied trying to be nice. "How was your first day back?"
"Great, everyone's been so nice." she replied. "I see you and Mac are still together, how nice for you two!"
"Yeah, we're getting married in a couple of months, after we graduate." he replied.
"Oh." she said with interest.
"Was there something else you wanted Brittany?" Billy asked.
"No, not really. I just wanted to talk." she replied.
"Well, then I'm going to find Mac." he said.
"Oh, I saw her talking with Rianna outside." said Brittany.
"Thanks." he said walking away.
"Bye." she called. Was he ever going to get over Mac? Two years should have been more than enough time! Things weren't going to be as easy as she thought. Oh well, she'd think of something else, she always did! Billy headed outside, thinking about his conversation with Brittany and nearly knocked Mac over.
"Hey!" she cried and she tried to regain her balance. Billy reached out a hand to steady her and then said, "Sorry honey, my head was somewhere else!"
"It's okay." she said kissing him on the lips. "So, how was your day?" she asked.
"It was great until about five minutes ago." he sighed, taking her hand. As they headed out to her car she asked, "Why, what happened?"
"I'll give you one guess." he replied.
"Brittany?" she asked.
"Yep, she came running down the hall calling my name, and then just wanted to say hi." he explained.
"I'm sorry, do you think she'll ever be out of our lives?" asked Mac.
"I don't know Mac, I just don't know." he replied.
"I'll call you tonight." she said hugging him goodbye. "I love you."
"I love you too." he said. She closed the car door and then pulled out of the parking space. "I won't let you ruin our lives again Brittany." Billy said as he watched Mac drive away.
As Mac drove home she thought of many things, mostly Brittany. 'I can't let her affect me like this,' thought Mac. Brittany had been gone two years, which should have been enough time to get past that horrible night. Mac still had dreams about it. There was no reason to worry, Billy loved her, not Brittany. Hadn't he proved that numerous times? It was just that Brittany hadd a way of worming her way back into peoples' lives. Don't think about it Mac, she told herself as she pulled up in front of her house. She parked the car and then headed into the house and up to her room. She flopped down on her bed and stared at a picture of her and Billy that sat on her nightstand next to her bed. It was taken last fall at one of the football games. They were cuddled together in a blanket and holding hands, smiling back at the camera.
Over at the Abbott house, Billy was looking the very same picture. Such happy times he thought as he gazed around the room at all the other photos of him and Mac. Where would they put them all he wondered, when they moved into their own place? So much to think about in such a little bit of time. Suddenly tho phone rang and Billy assumed it was Mac.
"Hey sweetie." he said.
"Hey yourself." replied the silky voice of Brittany.
"Sorry I thought it was Mac." he said.
"Oh!" she replied sadly.
"Look Brit what do you want, Mac is going to call any moment!" he said impatiently.
"I just wanted to know if we could get together some time and talk." she said a little sweetly.
"Ah Brittany, I don't think that would be a good idea." he said.
"Boy, Mac sure does have you on a tight leash. Doesn't she?" replied Brittany.
"No she doesn't, it's just I don't have anything to say to you." he answered.
"Well at least let me apologize in person." she said. "You know for what happened."
"Fine Brittany." he replied. "You can come over sometime tomorrow."
"Great!" she replied. "See you then!"
'No not great, perfect' she thought after she'd hung up the phone. 'Now all I have to do is get Mac to see us together!'
Billy hung up the phone and couldn't get Brittany off his mind. There was more to it than just coming over to apologize. There had to be, she was up to something and he knew it. "I'll just have to keep my guard up." he said aloud. The phone rang again and this time it was Mac.
"Hey, beautiful." he whipered.
"Hey, handsome." she replied.
"Guess, what I was thinking about?" he asked.
"Let me see, the test next week?" she joked.
"Hey, you're right." he laughed.
"You'd better be joking." she replied.
"I am, I promise." he said.
"Good!" she laughed. "So what do you want to do tonight?"
"Well......" he replied.
"Besides that." she laughed.
"We could go to the basketball game with Raul and Rianna." he suggested.
"Sure, that sounds great." she replied.
"I'll pick you up in an hour." he said. "Love you!"
"Love you more!" she smiled and then hung up the phone.
Billy arrived right on time, but Mac was arguing with Jill, so he let himself in. "Look Mac, it has to be perfect." she said.
"Don't you think I know that!" snapped Mac. "I've been looking for months now!"
"Well, look harder!" she replied. "Look I have to go, but we'll talk about this later!" Jill said and then walked into the kitchen.
"What was that all about?" he asked stepping into the living room.
"Your mother seems to think I'm going to ruin the wedding because I haven't found a dress yet." Mac replied. Billy walked over and hugged Mac.
"Don't worry about it, you look great in anything you wear." he said. "Let's not worry about anything, but having a good time tonight, okay?"
"Okay." she said as Billy led her towards the door. They arrived back at school just after the game had started. They spotted Raul and Rianna waving at them and climbed the bleacher steps.
"Hey man, how's it going?" asked Raul.
"Good." Billy said as he sat down next to him. He expected Mac to sit next to him, but she stepped past him and Raul and sat down with Rianna.
"Hey!" he cried.
"I just have to talk to Rianna for a minute, settle down." she laughed.
"Hey, what's up?" asked Rianna.
"Ah, what are you doing Sunday?" Mac asked.
"Nothing, why?" replied Rianna.
"We're going to New York." answered Mac.
"Just you and me?" asked Rianna.
"Yeah." replied Mac. "It will be fun!"
"Sure, I'd love to spend the day with you!" smiled Rianna.
"Besides, it'll give the guys a chance to do guy stuff! Whatever that is!" laughed Mac.
"What brought this sudden need to go shopping in New York on anyway?" asked Rianna curiously.
"Well before Billy came over his mother was yelling at me, telling me I was going to ruin the wedding if I didn't find a dress soon." replied Mac.
"Well, we'll find one." Rianna promised.
"Ah, I'd better go sit by Billy, it looks like he's pouting." laughed Mac.
"Okay." Rianna said. Mac stood and went to sit by Billy. He smiled and grabbed her hand.
"So, what was that about?" he asked.
"Rianna and I are going to look for a dress!"
"Then tomorrow we'll spend the day together." he said.
"Sure, what do you want to do?" she asked.
"I thought maybe we'd break in the new hot tub that dad just had installed." he replied.
"Okay." she smiled. An hour later the game ended and they walked out into the cold rainy night.
"You two be careful!" warned Billy.
"We will and same to you." replied Raul as they headed Rianna's car. Billy drove Mac home and then walked her to the front door.
"I'll see you tomorrow." she said kissing his lips. "Be careful, okay?"
"Yeah, I will." he said as he hugged her and then headed down the steps to his car. He honked once and then drove away. Mac just sighed and watched the headlights disappear into the rain.
The next morning around eleven o' clock the door bell rang. Billy walked to the door and saw Brittany. He frowned and then opened the door. "I thought you'd be here sooner" he said.
"Sorry I was busy as she walked into the living room and sat down on the couch. Well aren't you going to come sit down so we can talk?" she asked. Billy walked over and sat down on the couch besider her, but still kept his distance.
"Okay Brit, so what did you want to talk about?"he asked.
"Well...." she said. That very same morning Mac awoke feeling content. She went about her daily routine in no hurry, which was unusual for her. When she finally looked at the clockshe noticed that it was all ready eleven fifteen.
"I really should get going" she told herself. She was looking forward to spending the whole day with Billy. So she grabbed her stuff and headed out the door.
"I just want to apologize for what happen that night Brittany said. I was in shock and wasn't thinking straight!"
"Yeah, I kinda figured that out he replied. Look, if that's all you wanted to say Mac is coming over and I don't want her to see you here!"
"Fine, I know how to take a hint" she replied.
"It wasn't a hint" he said.
"Okay see you on Monday, and again I am really sorry, I don't want to cause any trouble between you and Mac" Brittany said. She turned and headed down the steps to her car. He didn't watch her drive away he just slammed the door and went to wait for Mac. Mac arrived a few minutes later and looked like a wet cat.
"It just opened up and poured" she laughted as she entered the house.
"Stay away from me he laughted.
She launched herself into his arms and wrapped her arms around him lying a big wet kiss on his lips. "I love you" she said sweetly.
"I am beginning to wonder if I feel the same" he joked. She let go but took his hand and they headed out to the pool house.
"Are we still going into the hot tub?" she asked.
"You bet he said. It will be fun!"
"It will be cold" she laughted.
"I'll keep you warm" he said smiling.
"I just bet you will!" she said grinning.
Hours later they entered the house through the back door. "I can't believe its still raining" Mac said.
"Yeah, its really pouring" he replied.
"So what do you want to do now?" she asked.
"Let's go look at the guest house he said. We can decide what we need to do to fix it up!"
"That's a great idea she said. All though I don't recall it being a guest house, its going to be our home remember?" she said.
"Your right as always" he laughted. They walked back out the door and down the path that led to the house. The surrounding gardens and the outside of the house was kept in great shape by the grounds keeper, but the inside needed work. They unlocked the front door and entered the living room.
"This room needs repainted" remarked Mac.
"Yeah, but so do most of the other rooms" replied Billy.
"Yeah, but we could do that ourselves" smiled Mac. They then headed into the kitchen which was in great shape.
"Dad just had this remodeled last year" Billy said.
"Good, one less thing to worry about replied Mac. Downstairs there was also an office and a bedroom with a bathroom. Upstairs there was two bedrooms two baths and and a family room. This place is way too big for just the two of us" Mac said.
"Well, we'll fix that soon enough" Billy smiled.
"Oh we will will we?" she said.
"Yeah, I want lots of kids" he said.
"Billy, I'll only be eighteen" she replied looking shocked.
"Don't you want kids?" he asked seriously
"Yes, but so soon? she asked.
"Why not while we're young?" he replied. Look, we'll talk about this later I don't want to ruin a perfect day okay?"
"Okay she smiled. They finished looking thrpugh the house then made a list of things they needed.
"How about next Saturday we invite Raul and Rianna over to help paint?" he said ob there way back to the house.
"Sure" she replied distantly.
Billy stopped and turned Mac to face him. "What the heck is the matter with you? he said.
"Its nothing" she replied.
"Bull he said. Tell me, I know you like no one else does, and I know when something is bothering you. Is it what I said about kids?"
"Yes Billy it is" she cried. Do you think I want to be a house wife?" she asked.
"No, I never thought that, but your not going to work at the coffe house your whole life either" he replied.
"What about you, don't you want to go to college?" she asked.
"No I don't have to, my family has a business. I can learn everything I need to know from Jack and Ashley!"
"Well, I didn't know you had decided that!" she snapped.
"Do you want to go to college?" he asked.
"I don't know!" she replied turning away.
"We won't rush into anything as far as kids are concerned okay? he said. We'll just let things happen!" he turned her around to face him and hugged her tight.
"I am sorry Billy, I just ruined the day!" she cried.
"No, No you didn't he whispered into her ear. You've got a right to voice your opinion, now is as good a time as any!" He finally let go of her but she grasped his hand as they headed back to the main house.
Once they entered the house they headed into the family room to talk some more. "So what do we have left to decide on about the wedding?" he asked sitting down in a chair.
"The foods done and so is the flowers. We're having the wedding at the church were your parents got married and then the reception in the garden at my house she said. You and Raul still have tuxes to get fitted for but Rianna and I will go with you. And then Rianna and I still have to find dresses."
"And then invitations he asked?"
"Those have been sent out. were expecting about five hundred people she said. Half of them I don't know!"
"Is that all?" he asked.
"The rest is just details that your mom or my grandmother are taking care of" she replied.
"Good, then all we have to do is finish these last few things then we can relax" he said.
"Rianna and I are going to look at dresses tomorrow and then on Tuesday we'll all go into town and get the tuxes she said. The rehearsal dinner is going to be at the Colinade Room, but that was scheduled months ago,"
"Great, things are finally beginning to fit together" Billy sighed as he leaned back in the chair. Mac was still pacing, but when she walked by him he pulled her onto his lap.
"Your forgetting one thing" he smiled.
"Oh great what is it?" she frowned.
"The honeymoon silly" he laughted.
"Oh I thought you had that handled?" she asked.
"I do I just don't want you to forget" he replied.
"Where are we going? she asked. Wait let me guess she smiled. Its a surprise!"
"Your so smart" he laughted.
"I know, but its nice to be reminded sometimes she laughted. She glanced down at Billy's watch and noticed the time. It was going on six o clock. Look, I should be going she said. I have a busy day tomorrow and I should go home and get some rest. And I still have to call Rianana and tell her what time to be ready!" She stood up and pulled Billy up with her. He waled her to the door and when they opened it they noticed it was still raining.
"You drive safely he said hugging her closely. I don't want anything to happening to you!"
"And you two boys behave yourselves tomorrow!" she laughted.
"Oh we will" he grinned. He kissed her goodbye the watched her clim b into her car and drive away. Little did he know he might not never see her ever again!
The next morning Mac woke at four and dressed quickly. She was picking Rianna up in a half an hour. She hurried downstairs and grabbed a bagle and then headed out the door. As she drove to Rianna's it started to sprinkle again. "Oh not again! she sighed. I hate driving in the rain!" She pulled in to Rianna'd driveway and honked the horn. Rianna dashed out the door and scurried to the car.
"Good morning" she said brightly.
"Good morning replied Mac. Are we ready to go?"
" Yep she repllied. Let's hit the road." They drove for several hours to New York and arrived just as the stores were opening. It hadn't rained much on the way, and Mac prayed that it would do the same on the way home! They shopped for several hours, and finally found the perfect dresses! Rianna's maid of honer dress was a pale purple made of silk with a long flowing skirt. "It will match the flowers almost to a tee" Mac said. Mac's dress was sleeveless with a long train. It was simple with no ruffles. The botice was lace and buttoned up the back with little white pearls. The skirt was pretty straight and made of silk. The moment she saw it she knew it would be perfect. It even fit her perfectly. She paied for both dresses with her credit card and arranged for them to be shipped to her house. They found the rest of what they needed to finish off the outfits and then headed home. She couldn't wait to tell Billy. When they walked out the door at five o clock the rain was coming down in buckets. They drove safely home, but once they reached the city limits the rain got worse. As Mac drove she she didn't see the gray Ford Explorer that ran a stop sign until it was too late. It hit them on the driver's side and sent them spinning. The Explorer flipped and stopped several yards away. Mac heard Rianna scream her name but she was enveloped in darkness.
Billy sat on the couch daydreaming about Mac. He'd spent the whole day with Raul just hanging out inside since it was raining. Raul had just left and Billy was waiting for Mac to call. When suddenly the phone rang and Billy picked it up on the forth ring. "Hello?"
"Billy honey its me"
"Hey mom what's up?"
"Um I hate to be the one to tell you this but there's been an accident she said. Its Mac." His face went white and he dropped the hone just as Jack and Ashley walked into the room. Jack ran to retrieve the phone and talk to Jill for a moment while Ashley helped a shocked Billy sit down.
Okay, we'll be right there" he said as he hung up the phone.
"What's wrong?" Ashley asked.
"Mac and Rianna were on there way home when a Ford Explorer hit them on the driver's side. Mac was driving, didn't even see it because of the rain. Rianna is going to be fine, a little shaken, but fine. However Mac is a coma, there not sure if she's going to pull through though" he said.
"Oh no Billy " she said hugging him.
"Come on guys we have to go" Jack said. They all piled into the car and everyone was silent as they drove, each praying in there own way. They arrived at the hopsital in record time and Billy was the first one out of the car and running toward the hospital. He rain the five flights of stairs and stopped in front of the front desk.
" I want to see my wife! he demanded without even realizing that he had called her his wife.
"Just a minute sir, who are you and who is your wife?" the nurse asked.
"I am Billy Abbott, my wife is Mackenzie Abbott now I want to see her!"he shouted causing everyone to stare.
"Just a minute Mr Abbott, a doctor will be with you shortly" replied the nurse.
Just then Jill placed her hand on his shoulder. "Honey are you all right?" she asked.
"Mom where is she?" he cried.
"The doctors are with her now son" she replied. Come sit down and wait with the rest of us" he followed her but didn't sit, he just paced.
Finally about an hour later the doctor approached. "Doctor how is she?" Billy asked.
"You must be Billy" he said.
"Yes, yes I am how is my wife?" he asked,
"Mackenzie is in a coma. We're not sure if she's going to make it. She's in critical condition. However there is something unusual she seems to be calling your name Billy over and over again we can't figure out how its possible!"
"I'll tell you how replied Kay. My grandaughter and this young man have a very special bond that ties them together in all ways possible."
"I want to see her" Billy said.
" I think that would be a good thing I'll take you too her the doctor said. Billy followed the doctor down the hall and into the ICU. Here you are, you stay for a minute and I'll be back to check her vidal signs soon." Billy placed his hand on the the doorknob and turned it slowly afraid of what he'd see! He entered the room and slowly approched the bed.
"Billy Billy!" she cried.
He greabed her hand and held it tightly. "I am here my love, I am here he said tears filling his eyes. He pulled a stool up by the bed. Mac can you hear me? he asked.
"Billy Billy!" Mac cried again.
"Shhhh I am here he whispered. Suddenly she stopped calling his name, like she knew he was there. He soothingly rubbed his thumb acrossed her hand kissing each fingertip. Stay with me Mac I need you! he cried softly. I won't let you leave me!" He looked at her face and cried even more. Her beatiful face was now even more beatiful no matter what it looked like. Her left cheek was vrused and her left eye was black. She also had a cut above her right eye.
The doctor entred and checked her stats. "I see she stopped calling your name, she must know your here, but I think its time you joined your family. He leaned down and kissed her lips and then let go of her hand. Almost immediately she began calling his name again. Amazing the doctor said. Billy held her hand again and she settled down. And when he let go she called for him and her vidal signs went crazy. I think its best for her if you stay here" the doctor said.
"I think your right Billy said. When the doctor left Billy took his seat next to Mac and said I am right here, and I'll never leave you!" Billy could awae he saw a faint smile cross her lips in response!
As the days turned into weeks the doctors became more and more worried. Her condition never got any better it only worsened, and anytime Billy would try to leave she would call out his name. He hadn't left her room or her side much in three weeks, except to shoer and change and he did that down the hall. Finally in disperation Billy dropped to his knees and prayed to God. "God don't take her awau from me, don't you see that I can't live without her? he cried openly. I can live without anything except Mac, Mac keeps me going! Please God I beg you! If someone has to die please take me. he pleaded. He knelt there for awhile with his head bowed and then finally stood and took her hand and said you can't turn back now, we've come too far together! I need you more then anything else in this world, don't you see that? I won't give up and neither will you! He kiss her hand and then spoke again through sobs; don't you see that if I let you go my life won't be complete. I want you smiling back at me everynight before we go to bed in the morning when we wake up. I want to have children with you and grow old with you together! We belong together! Forever and alwys he cried.God D***** Mackenzie wake up! Look into my eyes and see the love I have for you!" He finally rested his head on his stomach and cried.
"Billy Billy" she cried. He looked up expecting to see her eyes closed, but they were open and staring at him!
"Oh God your awake! Doctor doctor com quick! she's awake" he yelled out the door. The doctor along with Kay and Brock entered the room quickly. Everyone else stood outside the door listening.
After the doctor examined her he said" looks like she's over the worst of it. I'll know more once I run some tests! I don't know how you did it son, but you got her through it." Kay and Brock rushed forward to hug her.
"Oh Mackenzie you had us so worried" Kay cried tears running down her cheeks.
"Oh my girl I thought I lost you Brock said as he hugged her. All though I think Billy was more worried then anyone!"
"Where is Billy?" she asked.
"I am right here sweetheart he said coming up beside her.
"I heard you, I don't know how I heard you, but I heard you and I knew I had to come back to you" I couldn't leave you behind!"
"Oh Mac, what would I do without you? he said taking her hand.and kissing it.
"Okay, I think we'll leave you two alone" Kay said. Everyone went back into the waiting room and waited for test results.
"What do you mean you heard me?" he asked.
"Everything you said I heard it all! she cried. I was standing in the light and all of a sudden your voice was all around me. I had to come back to you."
Billy just put his arms around her and kissed her deeply then. "I missed you " he sobbed.
"I missed you too she cried. I love you!"
"I love you too" he said.
It was two weeks before Mac was finally released. And everyone was relieved. Billy wheeled her into the front of her house and then sat down in a chair next to her. Ester appeared and said "Mac I am so g;ad your all right"
"Thanks Ester" Mac said smiling.
"By the way a couple of boxes have arrived while you where in the hospital. I put them in your room" she said.
"Thanks Mac said again. I am so glad your here" she said to Billy after Ester left.
"So am I" he said holding her hand.I don't know what I would have done without you. So many people were worried about you. Brock, Kay, Mother, Father, Jack, Ashley, Raul and Rianna" he said. No one left the waiting room except to shower and change. And then I was with you the whole time!"
"Thank you so much for being there" she said beginning to cry.
"Oh Mac its okay, we'll get through this like we get through everything else he said hugging her close. The doctor said ypo can go back to school and since its the end of the year there won't be much work to make up!"
"I know she said with a sniff. You do know that without you I wouldn't be here don't you? It was your strenghth and love that made me fight to live!" He just smiled and held her hand.
"So he said wanting to change the subject. What's in those boxes in your room? Do you want me to get them?"
"No, its my dress and Rianna's dress. You still have three months to wait!"
"Oh come on" he said.
"Nope, she saud firmly. Its bad luck!"
"Okay, but I hope I can wait."
"Oh I know you can she laughted. It will be worth it believe me!"
Four days later Mac returned to school. She was glad to be back, she hated everyone fussing over her. It nearly drove her crazy. By the end of the day she had talked to all of her teachers and was amazed that she only had two major assignments to make up. She was getting straight A's so they let most of the little stuff slide. They assured her that it wouldn't effect her grade. Billy walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her. "Hey beautiful" he whispered into her ear.
"Hey" she said with a smile as she turned to face him. He leaned in and placed a kiss on her forehead. Just as Raul and Rianna walked up.
"So how was the first day back?" Raul asked.
"Pretty good." she replied. Raul stepped forward and hugged her tight.
"I was so worried" he said after he stepped away.
"So was I Rianna said as she hugged Mac too. I felt so bad that it was you and not me!"
"Don't say that scolded Mac. We're both fine and that's all that counts!"
"Your right, we need to mnove forward" Rianna replied with a reasurring smile.
"I say that tomorrow we get these two handsome guys fitted for tuxes" Mac said.
The two guys groaned at the thought. "Really girls we can do it ourselves" Billy said.
"Yeah right" Both girls laughted.
"Tomorrow it is"Rianna said.
"Okay well Mac and I should be going" Billy said. Raul and Rianna gave billy a knowing smile that didn't go unoticed by Mac.
"Where are we going? she asked. And what do you have planned?"
"Its a surprise" he said smiling.
"Its always a surprise with you she laughted. Catch you guys later " Mac said as Billy steered her down the hall. They climbed into Billy's car and headed toward his house.
They pulled into his drive way and then a newly paved driveway. "What's going on?" Mac asked.
"You'll see" was all Billy said. They parked in front of their new house and Billy ran around to opened the passanger door for her. When they approched the steps Billy scooped her up in his arms and carried her across the threshold. She laughted the whole way and then shesaw the surprise. The whole house had brand new furniture everywhere.
"Billy where did all this come from?" she asked walking through the house.
"I ordered it after we knew you were going to be all right he answered. Do you like it?"
he asked.
"I love it she cried throwing herself into his arms.
"You haven't even seen the rest he laughted kissing the top of her head.
"There's more?" she asked surprised.
"Yep, the whole second floor he replied with a grin. She ran up the stairs with Billy right behind her. Slow down, your still weak" he said as they reached the top.
"Sorry I am just so excited.she said as she wandered throught the rooms looking at all the furniture and when she came to there room she stopped in the doorway. Her smile brightened as she stepped inside. Oh Billy its beautiful she said looking around the room. There were two dressers each with a huge mirror, two nightstands. two chairs, a vanity, and finally a huge four poster bed. Billy walked over to the bed and layed down on the bed. He just closed his eyes and sighed. Mac walked around the room touching each peice of furniture. When she came over to the bed and smiled down at him all of a sudden he reaced up and pulled her down on to the bed.
"Billy! she squealed as he flipped her onto the matress bed and rolled on top of her. What are you doing?" she cried.
"Just having a little fun he replied smiling down on her.
"What if someone where to walk in?" she asked trying to get free,
"This is our house remember?" he said.
"Well in that case!" she said. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his lips to hers. She ran her fingers through his hair and smiled when he broke the kiss.
"Mm that was fun"he said.
"There's more where that came from she replied. He leand in to kiss her but she rolled out from under him! But in a couple more months!"
"What? he said. Your such a tease! I am never going to make it!"
"Yes you will, now come on let's go downstairs where its safe" she said.
"Safe from what?" he said.
"You" she said headeding out the door.
"That's what you think!" He said running after her!
The weeks went by way too fast, and soon there was only a month til gaduation. Talk of prom was spread through the halls. Everyone knew Mac and Billy would win again. There was no question! However Brittany and JT thought diffrently! "We have to make sure they don't win whined Brittany. I want to win!
"I don't know Brit, be honest your not that popular anymore he said. No one likes you, especially after what you did to Mac and Billy!"
"Well, we'll just have to fix that won't we? she said with a smirk.
"What's going on in that head of yours?" JT asked.
"Come on she said. Let's go talk!" They headed down the hall and smiled as they passed Billy and Mac.
"Brittany seems to be doing better" Billy said.
"Yeah I guess I was wrong about her" Mac said.
"Come on let's go Billy said putting an arm around her shoulder. I don't want to talk about Brittany. They watched Brittany and JT disapear around the coner and headed to Billy's locker. So do you want to go to prom?" he asked.
"Yeah, but no one's asked me yet" she said frowning.
"Well I'd be honored if you would go with me" he said with a smile.
"I was hoping you'd ask she laughted. Yes I'd love to go with you!"
"You'll have to find another dress"Billy laughted.
"Oh great not again" she groaned.
"I am sure you'll find one he said as he took her hand and they wandered down the hall.
They met Raul and Rianna at Billy's car and they drove to the tux shop. Do we really have to do this?" Billy whined.
"Yes you do" Mac mimicked in a whiny voice. They got out of the car and the guys tried to sneak away, but the girls grabbed their arms and dragged them into the store. They spent several hours trying on tuxes and the guys whined the whole time.
"You know the guys look hot in all of them Rianna replied. I don't know which one to pick!"
"I guess they'll have to try them all on again" Mac smiled.
"Don't even think about it" Raul replied. They finally decided on tuxes for the wedding, but decided while they were there they should pic up tuxes for prom too. " Is this ever going to end?" Billy whispered to Raul.
"I don't know man" Raul replied.
"We're guys, we should be able to handle this" Billy said.
"Yeah, but look how we're with" Raul remarked pointing at the girls who were talking to the tailor.
"We heard that" Mac said. Finally two hours later they walked out of the shop with four tuxes.
"You guys will be the two hottest guys at prom thanks to us" Rinana said.
"Great Billy smiled. All the girls will stare at me!" Suddenly the laughter stopped and the car got quiet. Billy glanced over at Mac in the passenger seat to find her arms crossed and her staring straight forward.
"Way to go Raul said from the back seat. Your in the doghouse now!"
"Shut up Raul, or you'll be in the doghouse too!" Rianna snapped as she punched him in the arm.
"Sorry sweetie" he mumbled as he rubbed his arm.
"Honey, I didn't mean it that way Billy said as he reach over and took her hand in his. She pulled it away and didn't even look at him. They dropped Raul and Rianna back at school, so she could get her car and then he drove Mac home. Mac I was only kidding he said softly. You know I only have eyes for you!"
"Sometimes I wonder" she replied still not looking at him.
"Fine if that's the way you want to be"he said.
"Just don't talk to me, see if I care!" They spent the rest of the drive in silence and by the time they pulled in front of her house Mac was in tears.
"Mac... was all he could say before she climbed out of the car and stormed up the front steps.What went wrong here? he asked himself. It has to be more then that little remark! She was fine earlier, I'll call her when I get home! He drove home quickly so he could call her and say he was sorry, for whatever it was he did! But when he called Ester had said she had went to bed. Great just great he said slamming the phone down. Mackenzie what has gotten into you? He walked out to the back yard and looked up at the stars. I can't leave things this way" he whispered. He headed back out front and climbed into his car. He arrived at Mac's house in record time and ran up to the door. Ester answered and said "I told you Billy, she's sleeping. What did you do to her anyway? She ran in here crying and then ran up to her room when I asked her what was wrong!"
He pushed past her and said "That's why I am here. I don't even know what I did!
"Well maybe its just nerves there's less then a month til the wedding and her birthday is this week" replied Ester.
"Well I am about to find out he said before heading upstairs he pulled a freshly cut red rose bud out of the vase in the dinning room and then climbed the stairs. He walked quietly down the hall and stopped outsider her door to listen for a moment. When he heard nothing he quietly turned the doorknob and entered. He saw her sleeping form as he glanced around the room. There was a dress bag hanging in the closet and there was white shoes under it on the floor. And there was all sorts of bridal magaizines everywhere. He knew that this wedding meant a lot to her, but he hadn't realized how much! He slowly approached the bed and looked down and saw a Kleenex clutched in her hand. He knelt down next to the bed and brushed a strand of hair out of her face.
"Mac!" he whispered. Her eyes fluttered open and she just stared at him. "Honey, what's wrong, why don't you just talk to me?" he asked softly. "What did I do?" She slowly sat up in bed and Billy sat next to her. Tears began to run down her cheeks, but Billy brushed them away.
"Oh Billy, nothings wrong, I swear." she cried. "I just over reacted and then was to proud to admit it!"
"Oh, Mackenzie." he whispered. "This wedding is getting to you, isn't it?"
"No, well kind of, I'm just stressed out." she said. Billy pulled Mac into his arms and hugged her tight.
"Do you want to talk about it?" he asked.
"No, I'll be okay, I just feel so bad about what I did to you." she sniffed.
"Don't be, I understand this is stressful." he replied caressing her cheek. "I should have never made that comment in the first place!"
"It's not your fault that you're a guy." she said smiling. She looked down in his other hand and saw the rose. "Is that for me?" she asked.
"Yes it is for you." he replied handing it to her. "Now that this is settled I want you to get some rest!" He pushed her back down on to the bed and pulled the covers up. "I'll see you in the morning." he whispered, placing a kiss on her lips.
"I love you." she called as he walked to the door. Before he walked out he said, "I love you too!" He closed the door and she listened to his foot steps echo down the hall. Mac snuggled down in the blankets and fell asleep with a smile on her face. Mac awoke the next morning feeling much better and way more relaxed. But as she got ready for school her mind began to wander. "I wonder if Brittany really has changed?" she asked aloud. Lord know Brittany had caused her fare share of trouble in the past. "Why can't I get past this?" she cried. "It's been two years! Billy loves you and not Brittany, so stop being paranoid!" she told herself. She finished her hair and then left for school. She arrived early, so she headed to her locker and then to find Rianna.
"Hey!" called Mac down the hall, when she saw Rianna at her locker.
"Hey Mac!" she replied. "Are you feeling better?"
"Yeah it was stupid of me to react to something as little as that." replied Mac.
"No, it was stupid of Billy to make that comment, especially with Brit being back." said Rianna.
"I don't want to talk about this anymore Rianna, not now okay?" said Mac with a frown.
"Sure, whatever you say, but you'll have to face this sooner or later, it's never going to get better if you don't." Rianna told her. They walked off down the hall to class and the subject was dropped, at least for the moment. Later that afternoon Brit and JT were in the library perfecting their plan.
"So, that's all I have to do?" asked JT.
"Yeah, it's not hard, but don't enjoy it too much." she said. "I can't wait to see the look on their faces when their happy little world crashes to the ground." she said with a smirk. "Then I'll be there to pick up the pieces and Billy will be all mine."
"Yeah, those two get everything they deserve for what they did to you." replied JT. "Why Abbott would choose Mac over you I don't know." he said taking her hand. "His loss I guess! Wait a minute though, if your plan works, what happens to me?"
"Come on!" she said not wanting to talk about that now. "Let's go and have some fun!" JT just smiled and followed her out the door. After school Mac and Rianna went to Mac's house and headed upstairs, so Mac could change. Then they headed into town to shop for Prom dresses. They shopped for several hours and finally found the perfect dresses, Rianna's dress was a strapless royal blue dress with a low back and a king skirt. Mac's dress was a red velvet dress with a low cut front and spaghetti straps. Both girls looked amazing!
"Wow Rianna Raul won'y be able to take his eyes off you" Mac said.
"Thanks, when Billy sees you he'll have to pick his jaw up off the floor" Rianna smiled as they admired themselves in the mirror.
"Thanks" Mac said.
"Well I think these are the dress." they agreed. They found shoes and handbags in the same store and then headed home. Mac dropped Rianna off and then headed to Billy's it was only seven so she knew she'd be up and she couldn't wait to see him.
He said opening the door and looked very surprised to see her. "Hey he said as she walked in. I wasn't expecting to see you tonight! Did you find dresses today?"
"As a matter of fact I did. she said grinning.
"That's great" he sid hugging her.
"Look Billy, there's something we need to talk about" she said when he let go of her.