Chapter Twenty-One
Howies throat felt dry, and his hand trembled as he reached to turn the door knob. He felt the fear of seeing his girlfriend in this stste rise within him. Will she make it? He wondered. Of course she will! Shes strong.
He let his hand drop from the door knob. He coulnt go in. She could die, her condition couldnt get any worse. Could it? Jessica needs me. He scolded himself. And Im too big a chicken to be there for her. Shoveing open the door, Howie felt his stomach turn inside out at the sight of his girlfriend. Tubes, and so many different machines were hooked up to her.
She doesnt deserve this! Shes been to good! Im the one who should be laying there! The man should take the responsibility. He looked at Jessica. Her soft blue eyes stared up at him, showing just how much pain she felt. Im so sorry Jessi! He broke down and sobbed. I should have been there for you.
Howie, Jessica took his hand. Hers was trembleing. You couldnt have stopped this. It isnt your fault.Dont go beating yourself up about this. Ill get better. She winced in pain, hand gripping Howies a little too tightly.
Howie called Dr. James who came running. Forcing Howie out of the room he said, Go sit with your friends in the waiting room. Renee and Hamidah are going home tonight. Go talk to them. Jessica may need surgery.
Howies heart hammered in his chest as he walked to see his friends who were leaveing. Hamidah, noticing that his trademark grin was missing rushed over to him. What happened? The others quickly followed.
Jessica is really bad. He muttered. She might be going into surgery.
Oh my gosh! Renee exclaimed. Thats awful. Why?
Because her appendix burst. And her other one is badly damaged. You all go home. Dr. James appeared.
Im going to stay here. She needs me. Howie stated firmly.
Me too. Megans here, and Ds gonna need some company. Nick announced.
Ill stay too. Brian agreed. After all, a group must stick together. Renee you go home. You need to rest.
Ill take them all home. Then Ill be back. Kevin siad reaching for his car keys. AJ, would you mind staying home with the girls tonight?
Need you ask? AJ diplayed a playful grin.
Then again, I dont know if Id trust you with my girlfriend. Kevin laughed.
Oh. Allison snapped. So you dont trust me?
No I-
Gotcha. Come on. I need my sleep so I can be here bright and early tomorrow. Allison smied.
Me too. Renee agreed.
Well, I think I should be here too. After all, they are my friends. Hamidah sighed.
Youve all had a rough day. Go home and relax. Howie told them. Did you hear about the other driver? Who was it?
Renee cringed. Well, we know him.
Who?
Rob.
Youre kidding! Oh my gosh! Howies head was swimming in his confusion. This is too much.
I know. I know. Renee agreed.
*****
The guys had spread out in the waiting room, and were now all soundly sleeping. Dr. James entered the waitning room. Excuse me, Howie? He called.
Howies eyes shot open. He sat up and rubbed his eyes, focusing on the doctor. Sorry, I fell asleep. What happened?
Dont be sorry. Jessicas out of surgery, but she isnt doing as well as I planned. Shes still sleeping from the anastisia, but she looks worse, and is going to be in pain for the next few days. Im sorry. Dr. James looked sympathetic.
The others were awake now. How long untill we can see her doctor? Brian asked.
Itll be a while. You guys might as well go home for some rest.
No. Howie demanded. She needs me. I cant.
D, come on man. Shed want you to rest. Nick told him. She wouldnt want you to be a wreck over her.
Shes really sick Nick. For some reason, I just dont think it would be right to leave her here alone. Id feel bad. Howie replied a little calmer.
Okay. Kevin rose to shake the doctors hand. Well see you when we bring the girls. He placed a supporting hand on Howies shoulder.
Thanks guys.
Once the guys left, Howie went to visit Megan. Suprsingly, she was sitting up, fully awake. Hey Meg. Howie gave her the best smile he could. Howre you doing?
Im bored. She announced. And the smell of hospital is making me nervous.
I know what you mean. He agreed.
Why are you here? Its three in the morning.
Jessica was in surgery, and shes not doing too well.
Oh. Im sorry.
Why are you up?
My arm hurts, and Im worried about the others. She looked over at him expectantly.
Well, you and Jessica are the only ones still here. Im pretty sure youll go home tomorrow. Jessica...
Im sorry D. Did you hear about Rob?
Yeah. Thats scary isnt it.
Yeah.
Dr. James stuck his head in the room. You okay Megan? She nodded. Howie, you can see Jessica now. Im just going to check on Megan to see if she can go. Ill be with you in a second. Go right in.
Walking down the hallways, Howie tried to picture Jessicas sweet smile. It seemed too easy. She always smiled when she saw him, except for this afternoon. He knew that today she would be sleeping, so when he entered, he sat and held her hand. He looked at her and hoped she would recover quickly just so she would smile again. And, so her pain would dissapear. Vowing to sneak a smile out of her, he sat holding her hand untill the sun broke through the window announcing a bright new day.
Why be afraid if Im not alone/ Though life is never easy the rest is unknown/ Up to now for me its been hands against stone/ spent each and every moment/ searching for what to believe/coming out of the dark, I finally see the light now/ Its shining on me/ Coming out of the dark, I know the love that saved me/ Youre sharing with me/ Starting again is part of the plan/ And Ill be so much stronger holding your hand/ Step by step Ill make it through, I know I can/ It may not make it easier but I have felt you/ near all the way/ Forever, forever, I stand on the rock of your love/ Forever Ill stand on the rock/ Forever,forever Ill stand on the rock of your love/ Love it what it takes, no matter what we face
"Coming Out Of The Dark," Gloria Estefan
Chapter Twenty-Two
Monday. The most boring day of the week. Sitting in her classroom before class started, Allison was startled when the music teacher entered her room. She hadn't gotten to know him well, but the students all loved his fun personality and entertaining class. Can I help you? She asked politely. Mr Cooper, right?
Yes. Youre Miss Edwards right? He retured the polite manners.
Yes.
Well, the schools staff was supposed to do a production of Cinderella, but no one wants to participate. Mr Cooper looked stressed.
Id love to help out with the play. Allison smiled. It sounds like fun.
Okay, then, do you have a few friends who would enjoy helping out? Mr Cooper asked.
Probably. I could get at least one.
Do you have any male friends?
Allison laughed. Of course. Theyre entertainers already. You know, The Backstreet Boys?
Youre kidding. Mr. Cooper was shocked. Would any want to help out?
Im pretty sure all of them would. And Ill force the others, my room mates, to help.
Then can you get them here this afternoon? So they can try out.
Ill do my best.
Thanks. Mr Copper grinned.
Anytime.
******
AJ walked down the hallway trying to find room 244. Allisons classroom. School ended about half an hour before he arrived. Personally, he looked forward to helping out in the school. Acting in a school play sounded like allot of fun. Hopefully, he would get a big part. Something bigger than the mouse. What was his name? Gus-Gus? AJ laughed. What a stupid name. He muttered.
Walking into Allisons room, AJ wasnt suprised to find that everyone else already seated listening to a plump man lecture about the play. Sorry. I got lost. He grinned at Hamidah, and plopped down into the chair next to her.
Ive gone over a part of the play with Allison already. So, Im going to split you in half. Ill take a few, then Allison will see if you are good enough for the part. You. He pointed to AJ. And you. He pointed to Renee. Stay here. The rest of you come with me.
Can I just watch the play? Hamidah asked.
The man nodded. By the way, if you have any questions, Im Mr Cooper.
They all exited. AJ looked over at Allison. So, what part are we acting out?
When they kiss. Allison grinned. Renee? You wanna try first?
No, thats quite allright. You can go. Renee shook her head.
Laughing, Allison sat next to AJ handing him the script. Quickly, it became apparrant AJ would be playing Prince Charming. It seemed to fit him. Slowly, they kissed. The script called for one, so they acted it out. Hamidah standing in the doorway gasped.
Before AJ coud explain, she took off. AJ shrugged. Shell be back. Renee, its your turn to try out. He laughed.
Allison is Cinderella though. Renee displayed her friendly smile. But allright. Ill try.
Atta girl. AJ grinned.
This time, when the kiss came around, Hamidah burst in smacking AJ hard on the head. OW! He cried. What the hell was that for?!
Youre cheating with two of them now?! Hamidah yelled back.
No! Hamidah, think about it. Why are we here? A play. A kiss between actors means nothing! AJ fumed.
Sure. Oh, and my best friends, She turned to Allison and Renee. Your sweet boyfriends are going to find out about this! She stalked out leaving the group in a stunned silence.
Standing, Renee said, Well explain when we get home. You would never dream of doing that AJ.
Really. Allison agreed. Plus, Kevin and I are getting pretty serious. So are you and Brian.
So, AJ asked, Who gets what part?
Allison, you should play Cindy. Ill be the fairy godmother. Renee smiled.
AJ, you definately won the part of Prince Charming. Allion told him.
Okay. Cool. Its better than the mouse. Im gonna go explain things to Hamidah... AJ jumped up and chased Hamidah down the hallway, followed closely by the others.
*******
Howie earned the part of the person who followed the prince around while he looked for who fit the shoe. He totally forgot what the persons job was called though... While sitting and thinking, he watched Hamidah come flying in, and wisper something to Brian and Kevin. They appeared angry and followed her out. They wernt in the play anyway, Nick would play the king, and Megan the queen. A few kids from Allisons class would play the mice. Kevin and Brian would be stagehands. A second later, AJ, Renee, and Allison came running into the room. Have you seen Hamidah? AJ asked breathlessly.
Yeah, she just came in here a few seconds ago. I think she B and Kev. went home. Howie shrugged to show he really didnt know. Whats going on?
Well, we tried out for the play, in the part we had to act out, Allison and I had to kiss AJ. Hamidah camein saw us both kiss him and blew up. Renee looked tense.
Oh. Well she told Kevin and Brian something that made them a little angry. Howie explained.
Shoot. Allison mumbled.
******
Are you sure they kissed? Kevin growled.
Positive. When I saw Allie kiss him, I figured that they were rehersing for the play because shes Cinderella, or supposed to be. Then when Renee kissed him, well, I didnt think that they were rehersing anymore. Hamidahs eyes were red from her crying. Why would he do this to me?
I dont know. Brian said. I thought Renee cared for me.
I know the feeling. Kevin sighed.
Thowing the door open, Allison, Renee and AJ burst in. Let me explain! He cried. Howie and Nick and Megan followed him quietly.
Why do you need to? Its apparent you dont care about me. Hamidah snapped.
Hamidah, we were assigned to try out that section! So Renee and Allison tried out. Im prince Charming, or whatever his name is. Allison is Cinderella. In the play, in front of all those little kids, we need to kiss. AJ groand falling back on the couch. If itll help, someone else can play the prince.
Im not buying it AJ. Whyd you kiss Renee? Hamidah snapped.
Renee! I thought I could trust you! Brian yelled.
Its a play! I wanted to be in the play! I tried out! That is the scene we tried out in! Mr. Cooper assigned it to us! Renee yelled back.
Plus Hami, a kiss between actors means nothing. Theres no emotion in it. I could kiss Howie right now and it wouldnt mean anything cuz were just acting. AJ added calmly.
Please dont. Howie laughed.
Sure. Okay fine. Hamidah entered her room. Returning a minute later, she had a
box with her stuff filled and a bag of clothes. My two best friend betray me along with my boyfriend. I see when Im not wanted. Have a nice life. All of you. With that, she left her group of friend shocked and unable to understand what just happened.
Sometimes its hard to make things clear/ Or know when to face the truth/
And I know that the moment is here/ Ill open my heart and show you
inside/ My love has no pride/ I feel with you Ive got nothing to hide/
So open your eyes and see who I am/ And not who you want for me to be/ I
am only myself, myself/ I dont wanna loose you now/ Were gonna
get through somehow/ Dont wanna loose you now or ever/ Cuz baby
Ive finally found the courage to stand my ground/ but if you want me/
Ill be around forever/ We all make mistakes We all loose our way/ But
we stood the test of time and I hope/ Thats the way it will stay/
Its all up to you to tell me to go/ Cause it wont be me to walk
away/ When youre all that I know/ And I know that/ I dont wanna
loose you now/ Were gona get through somehow/ Dont wanna loose you now or
ever/ Cause baby Ive finally found/ The courage to stand my ground/
But if you want me Ill be around forever/
"Dont Wanna Loose You Now," Gloria Estefan
Chapter Twenty-Three
Did she...? Megan asked gaping toward the door.
She did. Nick awnsered.
Shes overreacting. Megan stated.
Way. Nick agreed.
Will you two shut up? AJ snapped. I cant believe it! I would never do that to her! Or my friends. Brian, Kev, dont be mad at them, it was nothing. I swear!
From Hamidahs reaction, I beg to differ. Brian growled.
Oh my gosh Brian! Do you think were that low? Renee cried. So low that hed cheat with both of us? With us in the same room?!
Were not stupid. Allison added in a small voice. I have the man I love.
Now isnt the time to kiss up. Kevin snapped, stalking from the room.
So, Megan began, who got what part?
Im the King. Nick announced.
Prince Charming. AJ sighed. But I feel nothing like he does. He gets all the chicks.
Im the fariy godmother. Renee groaned.
No I am. Megan disagreed.
You are? Allison asked.
Uh-huh.
Okay, Renee could you direct? Allison asked.
Id love to! Boy, I get to boss all of you around. Renee grinned wickedly.
Great. AJ groaned.
What?
I dunno. Its just, Hamidah meant so much to me. So much. I cant believe she cant trust me yet.
Im sorry. Allison slipped her arm around jis shoulder in a supportave hug. Brian glared at her.
My point exactly. He established flatly.
Shes being kind. Renee snapped.
Will you all just relax?! Howie yelled. You dont realize how lucky you are! Brian, Renee is standing right in front of you. You still love her no matter what. She didnt do it. I heard their side of the story. If you and Kevin would just listen, youd understand that they love you two more than anything in the world! A play is just a play, thats all it is. Its a game. You two have the ones who mean the most to you right in your reach! Jessica is in the hospital getting worse! A tear slipped down his cheek.
And what makes you Mr know-it-all on this subject? Kevins eyes darkened with anger.
Yeah! Brian agreed. You and Jessica havent gotten past your new stage yet! You guys dont understand what a real relationship is--
Guys! Stop! Nick shouted over the raised voices. Howies right. Brian, youre my best friend. I can tell you still care for her. Why else would you let this little kiss hurt you so much? And Kevin, you too. I can tell by the way you just look at her. Nick paused and lowered his voice. All youre doing is fighting. I mean, Allison, Renee, you too. We have a sick friend, getting worse and we should be there with her. Plus, we just lost a member of our crew. Dont just stand there and fight. Do something. Be with Jessica. Help her out. Go after Hamidah.
Allison looked at the floor. Hamidah didnt take all of her stuff. Shell be back.
That doesnt matter. Nick replied. He could tell he got to them.
The comotion silenced so quickly, and the group stared down at the floor. Each thought of what they did wrong in the situation. Im sorry D. Its just... I didnt mean to take my anger out on you. Kevin finished. We should have been more patient.
Me too, Howie. Brian agreed. Im sorry. I know how much Jessica means to you.
Howie stared at his hands. Nodding he decided he should tell them exactly how badly Jessica was doing. He recived a call that afternoon about her condition, she was slipping, fast. The doctors dont think shes going to live much longer. He wispered. He didnt trust his voice to say it any louder.
Shes what? Megan gasped. No. She will. You know it.
Nick turned to her. How can you be so optimistic?
How can you be so pesamistic? She retorted.
AJ stood up. Ill meet you at the hospital.
Where are you going? Howie asked.
After Hamidah. Thanks Nick.
Walking down the hallways, AJ wondered what he would say to her. He knew to tell her how much she meant to him, it would help a little. Plus, she didnt know where she was going. Another plus for him. Turning down the hallway toward the parking lot, he recignized a tiny form leaning against the wall. Her bags scattered on the floor. She stared into space, obviously confused. Hamidah? AJ called. "Can we talk?
Turning to him, emotion flooded her face. I couldnt go. You were right. I overreacted. I love you so much! She took his hand.
I never said you did. AJ wrapped her in his arms. I hinted it though. He smiled. Kissing her forehead, he pulled her even closer so her cover her with his sweet kisses. She allowed him to.
I cant believe I almost left! Where would I be able to go? Georgia to become a hick? She laughed.
AJ leaned back to look her square in the face. I dont know. Youre strong enough to make it though.
Hamidah buried her face in his soft shirt. You dont know how stupid I feel right now.
It doesnt matter. I love you.
Breatheing deeply, Hamidah smelled the cologne she bought for him at Christmas. The though of him wearing something she bought him touched her. Content, she leaned forward and allowed herself to fall in love with him deeper than before.
*****
Renee sat next to Jessica holding her slim hand tightly. Jessica looked so weak, and her colorful face so filled with life was pale with the pain. Even her smiles were weak. Dispite these few sickening factors, she was alive. You look great. Renee told her.
No I dont. I m sick, pale and in pain. You can tell. Jessicas normally bubbly personality was crisp and tense.
Howie cringed. Jessica, youre beautiful you know that.
She smiled. I love you. And Im sosorry for all of this.
Its not your fault! You werent driving the car! I was! Renee scolded. I couldnt do anything about it either.
Howie left the room leaving Jessica and Renee alone. Megan and Allison went to get drinks, while Brian, Nick and Kevin wandered around. Jessicas eyes slowly shut, and she quickly fell into a restless sleep. Renee realesed her grip on her hand and leaned back in her chair. Burying her face in her arms Renee tried to drown out the sounds of the hospital. This place is way too depressing. It smells bad, it has so many sick people, and all the noise! The beeping of the heart moniter was driving her crazy!
Sitting up, Renee noticed Brian sitting stiffly beside her. Patting his arm, she looked back over at Jessica. Felling his hand grip her own, she turned back to Brian who, now, sat staring at her. He looked at the floor. Suddenly, Renee had to apologize and explain that afternoon. Brian, Im sorry--
Dont be. Its mostly my fault. I jumped to conclusions. I really do love you more than anything. Nick was right. Brian looked directly into her eyes.
I love you more. She teased.
No you dont. He said. Thats impossible.
Not for me.
Closeing her eyes, she leaned back and sighed. Feeling his warm lips on her own, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned his unexpected gift.
*****
Howie sat out at the cafeteria with Megan and Allison. Jessica will be just fine. Megan promised.
I dont know. She isnt recovering very fast. Howie sighed.
Youre too negetive about this whole subject. Megan giggled.
Youre too positive. Howie grinned.
Allison laughed as she stirred her coffee. knowing it would be a long night, she called in sick so she could take the next day off. Everyone would be spending all their time at the hospital. As boring as it sounded, they all knew Jessica needed them. Howie looked over Allisons shoulder and practicly dragged Megan back to the room. Allison, you finish your coffee, well just be in the room. Dont rush your self. With that, he dragged Megan away.
Looking down into her coffee, she suddely became aware fo someones presance behind her. Spinning around, she found herself staring into Kevins deep green eyes. Oh! She gasped, falling back into her chair.
Sorry. His voice came out softly and he looked at her. About everything. I really didnt believe that. I know youd never do that to me. Its just, Im a little tense. We all are.
Being able to tell his true emotion by looking in his eyes, Allison saw genuine trust and just how much he cared for her in them. Placing her hand on his cheek she wispered, Im sorry too. just before hpulled her into her arms kissing her.
*****
Howie sent everyone home. Jessica realized when she awoke. Looking up, she saw Howies innocent brown eyes watching her. Putting on her best face for him, she reached out for his hand. Taking it she wispered. I love you Howie. and started to cry. I cant and I wont leave you here alone.
Howie instantly gripped the meaning of her words. No you wont not untill your needed up there. This isnt the time. They have plenty other angeles.
Feeling more confident, she wispered, Ill be home soon.
Ill count the seconds untill youre there.
This world dont turn when youre not in my arms/ The sun dont
shine whenever Im without you/ And theres an empty space inside
my heart/ When youre gone/ And whenever youre gone/ Its
too long/ And the waiting is driving me crazy/ Baby Im not alive
till youre here by my side/ I count the minutes/ I count the
hours/ I count the seconds/ Till youre here by my side again/ And every
minute goes on for hours/ untill youre with me/ till I look in
your eyes again/ And time is standing still till youre here with
me/ I need your love to set me free/ Set me free/ Each night is a lifetime
when Im not with you/ And everyday just seems to take forever/ Im
missing when I should be kissing you/ I cant wait/ cause I live
for the love that we make/ I cant breathe till I feel you beside
me/ And Im lost in the dark/ till youre here in my arms/
I cant wait a minute more/ Just to touch you/ cause I love you
baby/ Dont make me stay away from you too long/ cause the waiting
is driving me crazy/ Baby, Im not alive till youre here
by my side/
"I Count The Minutes," Ricky Martin
Chapter Twenty-Four
Opening his eyes to the blinding waiting room, Brian groaned. What is wrong with Jessica? Whats taking her so long? He wondered. Sitting up fully, he felt Renees head resting on his shoulder. Glancing over at his cousin, he announced. Im going to get my own apartment.
I already did.Kevin said. Ya know, its a little bigger than an apartment....
Brian laughed. Well, I was thinking about inviting Renee to live with me.
Kevin stared at him. Why? He pushed Allison over so she leaned against the wall. He leaned forward. Are you going to propose?
No! Brian cried. Not yet!
Then why?
Because I love her, and I think its the next step. Brian shrugged. I just dont know how to ask her.
Kevin nodded. I know what you mean.
Whadya mean by that? Brian asked.
Oh nothing. Kevin grinned. Its just been about three years that weve dated them, so, well, youre getting more serious.
Brian arched an eyebrow. Like your rendeveous (I cant spell that word) at the bed and breakfast?
Kevin flushed a deep red. Not exactly.
Okay.
Renee stirred when the doctor entered to address them. Well, I have good news, and bad news. Dr. James announced.
Bad news first. AJ asked. He and Hamidah arrived to find all the other couples cuddling in the waiting room.
Well, Jessis going to be bedridden for the next few weeks.
Good news? Renee asked groggily.
Shes going home tonight.
She is?! Renee jumped up excitedly. Great!
Brian smiled. This is great! Now Renee will be happy! Shell defenitly say yes to my plea!
Nee? Can we talk? Brian grinned.
Following him down the hallway, she wondered what he could possibly want to talk about. They had quietly chatted for the past few hours. Whats up B?
Well...Seeing the look in her eyes, her excitement to see Jessica out of the hospital, he decided now wasnt the time. I was just going to tell you to spend as much time as you need with Jessica. We can cancel and dates you need to.
Thats not what you wanted to tell me Brian, what is it? Her smile lit up her face.
Oh nothing. Its not important now. He smiled, but in his eyes, she could see he wanted to know something.
Ill ask in a little bit then. I can see you want to know something. She told him.
Okay Brian shurgged.
*****
Renee smiled at Jessica, who looked much better since she arrived at home. Howie was currently buzzing around, doing anything he possibly could to make her comfortable. Howie sit down! Renee laughed when she entered the living room to talk to Brian, only to find Howie vacuming. Jessica doesnt want you to worry yourself too much about cleaning her house. She wont even be oout here!
I know. Howie sighed. I just dont want her to have to clean first thing when she gets out of bed.
Well she wont have to. Thats why were all coming over tomorrow. To clean. Allison will feel right at home. Renee grinned across the room at her friend, who was deep in coversation with Kevin, and didnt look up.
Brian pulled Renee down next to him on the couch and kissed her on the cheek. So, what did you want to know earlier? Renee asked.
He took her hand. Renee, I love you more than anything in the world. You know that. Renee nodded. If this isnt the time for you, just tell me.
Brian, what is it? Renee expected the worst from Brians tone.
Renee, do you want to live together? I mean, everyone else is buying their own houses, and I thought this would be the next step for us. He gazed at her with large pleading eyes.
Brian! Renee gasped. This is allot to think about, I mean, I love you too. You know that. Its just, well, could I think this over?
I understand. If Im moving to fast--
No! You arnt, trust me. I just, give me a second. Renee stood up and exited the living room. Stepping outside into the pale moonlight, she felt her head clearing from all the confusion in the house.
Did he really just ask me to move in with him? This is a big step! Renee wondered. Pushing her thought aside, Renee assured herself she wanted to move in with I him. I love him more than anything! She told herself.
Glancing across Jessicas yard, she noticed Brian slowly walking toward her. The silver moonlight played on his face, making his light blue eyes bright silver crystals. Renee gazed at him expectantly. He leaned next to her casually on the tree next to her. You dont need to decide tonight. He told her.
She took his hand. Ive made up my mind. He turned to face her. When do we start house-shopping?
Brian grinned. Pulling Renee closer, he expressed his joy by kissing her. A couple in love, under the shade of a tree, falling deeper into love, only proved love was unstoppable. You couldnt stop it, and neither could they.
Chapter Twenty-Five
The school was filled with students milling around. Many recognized the boys. Few simply walked past. Why are you here? A young girl asked. You dont have kids do you?
AJ laughed. No. Im in the play, well, I need to get ready. See-ya.
Be good AJ. Kevin warned. Dont do anything you arent supposed to.
Yeah. Brian agreed. And tell Renee good luck. She did a perty nice job on directing the play. He grinned.
Kevin sighed for about the hundredth time this evening. If you dont wanna be here, just tell Allie. Hamidah told him.
Im just tired. Kevin assured her.
Arent you taking her out after the show? Howie asked. Jessica had urged him to go without her, saying she wanted him to tell her all about it. I mean, Im going to Jessies.
Yeah, I dont mind. She wont stay out late. Kevin assured him. Ill keep this a secret. Unless she wants me to tell.
Howie wandered the hallway. Okay. Ill go snag us some seats.
Tell Nick and Megan hello for us. Brian called.
Howie nodded.
Kev, whats the matter? Brian turned on his cousin, eyes full of concern.
Just a little nervous. Kevin admitted. He told me about asking Renee to live with him. I know he can keep a secret.
Bout what? Brian looked confused. Allisons the one in the play.
I know. Remember when I agreed about telling her my feelings? And you told me about asking Renee to live with you? Brian nodded, not following. Dont tell anyone, please. But tonight, Im going to propose.
You, you are? Brian gaped. Congratulations! You two will be great together! Tell me the awnser, cuz Renee and I are waiting for the right moment to tell our little announcement.
She agreed to move in?! Kevin beamed. Thats great! Ill be sure to tell you. After my mom.
Brian laughed, punching his cousin, he dragged Kevin to the auditorium.
*****
The play was a hit. Allison and AJ dragged Renee out from backstage, introducing her. She earned a standing ovation. Megan and Nick were wonderful also. All the young girls thought Nick looked so adorable! Megan did a great jonb playing the fairy godmother, even with her broken arm.
Great job Allie! Brian beamed winking at Kevin. You too guys! Renee! That was an amazing play! You did a great job getting them prepared.
Renee shrugged. I enjoy bossing people around. What can I say?
So are we all going out together? Or are we going to split and go our separate ways? Megan asked.
Lets go separate. Kevin stated. Id just like to be alone with Allison toight.
Kevy! Why? We can be together any other night! Allison wined.
Well, Id like to go alone with Renee myself. Plus, Kevs tired, he might want to go in early. Brian told the group.
Okay. Nick grinned at Megan. Being alone has its advantages.
Megan laughed.
Hamidah took AJs hand and dragged him to his car. No one will be back at the house. Cmon.
Kevin smiled at Brian, thankful for the quick save, and gallantly ecorted Allison to the car they arrived in.
*****
Wandering around the local park, Allison noted how private and romantic it was in the evening. The stars twinkling in the sky, the moon shining a peaceful silver light across the tall trees. She kissed Kevins cheek and leaned against him, holding him close.
Finally, she noticed how his hand trembled, and how subdued he seemed that night. Looking imploringly at him, she asked, What is it Kevin?
He pulled her over to the nearest bench. motioning for her to sit, he took her hand in his own. I love you, and just want you to know that. I never want to be without you, ever. Ive always been amazed by your faith in this relationship. And in me. I talked to your dad, and he agrees with me.
Kevin if--
Allison, let me finish. Dropping to one knee, he whispered, Your father told me to ask you when I felt it would be right. He told me hell miss you. Pulling out a soft blue, velvet box, he looked her deep into her eyes. Will you marry me?
Fingers touching the box, she felt shocked when she became aware of the tears trailing down her cheeks. Stroking the silver band, running her finger over the sparkling diamond, she nodded. Yes. Yes, I will. Throwing her arms around his neck, she broke into a fresh round of sobs as he slipped the ring onto her finger.
*****
Youre awfully quiet this afternoon Balto. Renee commented. Is anything wrong?
No. Kev. and I just stayed out late. Im a little tired.
The truth was, Allison hadnt slept at all after she called her parents, Kevins parents, and her brother. They all agreed to keep it a secret untill someone identifyed the ring. Allison figured Renee would be the first, after all, she was her best friend. Running her left hand through her short dirty blonde hair, she smiled.
Renee and Allison headed to the door when they were stopped by a man who had a striking resemblence to Rob. Allison gasped, and Renee wondered, Isnt he dead?
You. The man growled, You killed Rob.
No, I-- Allison was cut off.
He was my best friend! My twin! Why? And how could you do that? He loved you.
I caught him making out with another woman in his car. He never cared for me. Allison snapped. Plus Bob, I didnt kill him, he nearly killed all of my best friends in a drunk driving accident.
Bob snarled and whipped out a gun. Dont ever say that about him! He srieked.
Startled, Allison dropped her cell phone. Renee scooped it up. B? Please call the police. And get your butt over here.
Bob never noticed her, he was too intent of frightening Allison. Why? He demanded.
I didnt do it! He nearly killed Renee over there! And my friend almost died! I didnt do it. He never loved me either!
Why? The man seemed to believe her.
Because, hes not as kind as he seems.
Im sorry, about him. Bob totally cracked. I really looked up to him all my life.
What seems to be the problem here? The police asked.
Nothing sir. We just had a little dissagreement.
Kevin, and Brian came rushing up to see the officers exiting, shaking their heads. Brian dashed up to Renee, Are you okay?
Renee nodded watching Bob leave.
After that mess was done, Renee wandered off with Brian, and Allison ran into Kevins safe strong arms.
When I see you there/ Im so aware/ of how lucky I am, baby/
Cuz I dont deserve, I dont come close/ To understanding,
baby/ The logic of your kind untrust/ It amazes me/ That someone like you
would care enough to just believe/ chours/ Your faith in me it pulls me through/
When theres nothing around to hold on to/ When I fall when Im
weak/ All the strength I need is your faith baby/ Your faith in me/ Even
when we fought I got along/ Cuz our love is real, baby/ Iots
like salvation to my soul/ Cuz thats how it feels, baby/ Its
a sacred thing that I keep close/ To carry on/ And I know that Ill
be allright/ In your healing arms/chours/ You make me feel I can walk on
water/ I can reach above the stars/ And nothin comes against me/ Safe
within your arms/Chours/ Your faith in me
"Your
Faith in Me," Jessica Simpson