Chapter 26
Wheres Allison? Wheres Allison? Brian asked Kevin excitedly as they walked next door for the dinner they decided to have with the girls. I wanna see it! I wanna see it!
See what? Nick asked.
Nothing. Kevin replied quickly.
Okay. Nick acted offended, and waltzed into the aparnment shared by the girls.
Jessis coming! Her doctor said she could! Megan chirped when they walked in the door.
She is?! Great! Howie beamed, finally his girlfriend would be out of bed, and among her firends.
Nick draped his arm around Megans shoulders. What are we having?
Fried chicken. Or should I say Kentucky fried chicken. Megan shot a playful glace toward Kevin and Brian. And potato salad.
Mmmmm. Sounds good. Nick rubbed his belly. What? No chips?
Allisons at the store getting the chips. Dont worry. Renees right over there making the salad. See her?
Nick grabbed her waist. You know what I mean! He pulled her into the living room and hugged her to his chest. Pulling away, Megan giggled breathlessly. Do you want dinner or not?
Food is good. Nick announced.
Megan smiled and skipped back into the kitchen. Nick plopped onto the couch next to Brian, trying to include himself in the conversation was more difficult than it seemed.
So when is it? Brian asked.
Kevin shrugged. We havent planned that far ahead yet. About a year. No rush.
When is what? Nick felt left out.
Its not important. Kevin mumbled.
Renee entered carrying a bowl half full of chips. This is all we had as of right now. Balto is out getting more, along with a few other things. Renee set the bowl down in front of the men. Hopefully this will hold you down untill dinner.
Allison entered the apartment weighed down with grocieries. Smiling broadly at Kevin, she set the bags down int the kitchen and wandered back into the living room to kiss him hello. Let me seee it! Brian cried.
See what? Nick wailed. You guys are confusing me.
AJ and Hamidah glanced up from the TV. Yeah man, what are you talking about?
Kevin dissmissed their questions with a wave of his hand. Allison grinned, and wiggled her hand in the air, causing the diamond to sparkle in the light. Perfect. Brian patted his cousin on the shoulder.
Since when are you so excited to see womens nails? Nick wondered, bewildered.
Brian laughed. Just forget it man.
No one knows yet sweetie? Allison inquired.
Kevin shook his head.
Hamidah eyed Allison suspiciously. Know what?
Grinning, Allison wandered into the kitchen to help prepare dinner.
These guys get stranger everyday. Nick thought. They talk funny too. Like Allison and Kevin, thats just crazy.
Nick roamed into the kitchen. Renee looked up, saw Allison helping with the food, and screamed. No! No! You cant cook! Shooo!
Megan cracked up. Youre so mean! But I have to admit its true!
Allison rolled her eyes, and stomped out. I was just trying to help! She called over her shoulder.
When Jessica arrived, everyone cheered and hugged her. She grinned and hugged Howie tightly. This feels just right. I needed this for a long time now.
Howie nodded.
Sitting around the table, the friends chattered away, telling tales, and laughing. Megan took Nicks hand and whispered, We need to go out as a group like this. It would be fun.
I agree. You and I need to go out again too. Sheepishly, he grinned at her.
Megan laughed. Her laughter was interupted by Renees gasp. Pointing at Allisons finger she inquired, Is that what I think it is?
Blushing, Allison nodded, took Kevins hand, and extended her own for the others to see.
Aww! Megan exclaimed. That sweet!
Why didnt you tell us! Renee cried.
It was just a few days! Plus, we wanted to wait till you guys figured it out.
Their gushing was interupted by a knock at the door. Megan jumped up to awnser it. Swinging the door open, Megans face showed pure shock. Oh my gosh Jeff! How- Why-? Memories flashed before Megans eyes.
Megan? Jeff seemed just as surprised. Im here for a Hamidah El Shariff. Why are you here?
I live here Jeff.
Oh,
Invite them in! She heard Hamidah call from the kitchen.
come on in. Megan mumbled.
Wheres Hamidah?
In the kitchen. We room together.
Oh. I work for her now. Shes becoming pretty popular.
Jeff! Hamidah cried. Why are you here?
I came with a note. They want a design dilivered next week.
Oh.
Ill call you later about it okay? Do you want to join us?
No. Really thats okay.
Oh come on! Man you need to relax! Sit down and join us! AJ knew him to.
Megn stiffly sat next to Nick. He senced her discomfort. Who is he?
An old boyfriend. Dont take this the wrong way, but Im remembering all the fun we had together. Megan looked up at Nick.
Really? His voice was no longer soft and comforting. A chill ran up Megans spine.
Nick, its not--
Find out if these feelings mean something. If they do, you have my permission to be with him. If not... He trailed off, and looked down at his plate.
The table sat in silence. All stared at Megan and Nick. Suddenly, an uncomfortable murmering arose between the couples. Megan eyed Jeff, signaling she wanted to find out as soon as possible.
******
Megan trotted down to her car the next evening. Memories filled her head, and she couldnt help but miss Jeffs bear hugs, his gentle kisses, his friendly smile. Nick though, he meant everything to her. Sheloved how he always asked if she liked something befoehand. The way he loved her with every cell in his body, and how she did the same.
Jeff sat at a table, staring at his hands. Im sorry. He whispered as Megan approached. I didnt think it would cause that much trouble.
You didnt know. Jeff, I really cae for Nick. You and I--
Were over I know. My girlfriend and I are getting to a serious point. I understand how you feel. Youd never be able to care for anyone else but Nick. He seems nice.
Megan smiled and took his hand.For that year, we were perfect. Then it came time for a change. Look how better off you are.
Im just as happy, Meg.
So no intamite feelings?
None that I know of.
******
Walking into the aparnment where Nick lived, Megan nervously twisted her jacket into knots. Nick? She called. Nick, are you home?
Right here. Came a muffled reply from the couch.
Wh- nevermind. Nick I--
Go on, go to him.
No. Im here for you.
Suddenly Nick pulled her into a giant bear hug. Its amazing how lovers can just be friends.Megan murmered.
Here we are/ Face to Face/ We forget time and place/ Hold me now/
Dont let go/ Though it hurts and we both know/ The time we spend
togethers gonna fly/ And everything you do to me/ Is gonna feel so
right/ Cuz baby when Im loving you/ I feel like I could cry/
Cuz theres nothin I can do/ To keep from loving you/ Here
we are/ All alone/ Trembling hearts/ Beating strong/ Reaching out a breathless
kiss/ I never thought it could feel like this/ I want to stop the time from
passing by/ I wanna close my eyes and feel you lips touching mine/ Baby when
youre close to me, I want you more each time/ And theres nothing
I can do to keepfrom loving you/ Theres nothing I can do/ Im
helpless in your arms/ Oh baby whatd you do/ Im in love this
is it/ Theres no turning back this time/ No no no/ Here we are/ Once
again/ But this time were only friends/ Funny world/ Sometimes lies/
Before the game when loves the prize/ And though noone knows
whats going on inside/ And knowing all the love I feel for you/ Is
something I should hide/ When I have you close to me/ The feelings so sublime/
That theres nothing I can do/ To keep from loving you"
"Here We Are," Gloria Estefan
Chapter 27
Renee blew a fallen strand of hair out of her face as she sat in the middle of her, now, bare,empty room. Hamidah, Megan and Allison all perchen on the edge of the bed to help her pack. Handing Renee a photo of the group, Megan asked, Remember that day?
How could I not? We first met Jessica then. Renee smiled down at the photo. Its going to be weird not having you guys to shove around. She announced suddenly.
Allison looked up from the photo album. I know. We were so close since Middle school. It gonna be kinda weird.
Hamidah nodded. You help to keep the house meesy! Now whose gonna give Allison something to clean up?
Megan laughed. She couldnt believe that Renee was moving in with Brian, or that Allison would be getting married. The couples were perfect together, but, it seemed too soon for Megan. Then again, they were logical adults.
Renee dropped two thick notebooks onto Allisons lap. Member these? She asked.
Hamidah peered over Allisons shoulder as she read. Our notebooks! You kept these?
Renee laughed. Of course. They really help a bad mood.
********
Hamidah rushed in from the office. She couldnt belive what just happened, and her excitement caused her to shake. With trembleing fingers, she opened the door. There she found Renee perched in a chair, looking at pictures. Guess what? Hamidah cried.
Hmm? Renee guessed it would be something silly, something expected from Hami.
Madonna is buying a few of my designs!
Renees head snapped up. Youre kidding.
Im not! She came in herself today! Hamidah eyes twinked in anticipation. Shes going to become the spokes woman for my designs, and wear them at her next tour!
Emerging from the shower, Megan asked, Who?
Madonna! Hamidah squealed.
Really! Oh, Hami thats great!
I cant believe it!
Believe what? AJ wandered into the room.
I have a celebrity buying my designs.
What am I?
Your AJ.
Really? Howd you know?
I dunno? Maybe cuz I date you?
Thats you? I thought her name was Amanda. Oops, I wasnt supposed to tell you that was I? AJ grinned at her. Congrats.
Hamidah laughed. Thanks. I still cant believe it. Modonna!
AJ grinned and hugged her. I always knew you d do it someday. Wanna tango in celebration?
Not now. But Hamidah was too late. He swept her into a swift dace around the small apartment, laughing, and stumbleing along with him.
Mi salsa es caliente! Allison suddenly cried out.
Your salsas hot? Renee asked skepticly.
Oh, Allison laughed. A student said that to me today. I just remembered because... She let her voice trail. Im goin to my room now.
Renee shook her head. I swear, that girls gonna go crazy with all the stress from those kids.
Hamidah nodded, still dancing in AJs arms.
*****
Sitting in her office, Hamidah felt like a kindergardener again. Unable to sit still and wait. Modonna would arrive any second. Finally! I get to meet her! Hamidah heart raced with anticapation. This is so exciting!
A buzz at her door announced the legends arrival. (Renee, shes a legend to Hami.) Silently praying she didnt trip on the rug, or leave anything out that she could spill, Hamidah rose to reply to the buzz at her door. Standing in the doorway, a blonde woman with powerful brown eyes smiled at Hamidah. I love your work. She said.
Its wonderful.
Thank, thank you.Hamidah stammered.
Modonna smiled. Dont be embarresed. I came here today to see what will work on my tour. I know you can help me.
Im flattered you chose me. Hamidah grinned. Very flattered.
Finsihing up that evening, Hamidah wandered home slowly. Finally she had met her! And she loved her designes! What could be better?! Dont let this day end! Hamidah thought to herself.
Chapter 28
Surrounded by her paperwork and lesson plans, Allison looked up from her desk in her classroom. Gasping, she realized it was 4:30. I have a date with Kevin at five! Stuffing her work into her duffel bag, she dashed out to her car to try and make it home in time.
Dashing into her house, she tried to make it into her room quickly. Before Allison could enter the walls of her room, she felt a pair out strong hands surround her waist and pull her down into their owners lap. Kev, Im so sorry! Im running a little late this afternoon! she gasped turning to face her fiancee.
No problem. He grinned. I have another idea if its all right with you.
What is it? Allison asked.
Well, you know how my brother just had a baby? I was planning to go and visit my new nephew.
Allison stared up at him, shocked. She had looked forward to spending the evening with him. Thats fine. she murmured.
Well, he is your nephew too. Kevin smiled. Why dont you come with me. I do have two plane tickets.
Allison felt her cheeks grow warm. Laughing, she agreed to go. I need to pack. When are we leaving?
Tonight. Kevin announced dropping her onto the easy chair they just occupied.
Ill be here to pick you up at seven.
Allison grinned knowingly up at him. Ill be ready at eight.
******
Taking their first class seats, Allison felt nervous. Kevins family was so close, she sometimes wondered if she fit in. Kevin always treated her lovingly around them, and they all smiled kindly and welcomed her. She just felt like a newcomer, which in many ways, she actually was.
Gently, Kevin took her hand. Playing with her engagement ring, he watched how brightly it sparked as the light hit it. The young couple looked across the isle, where a lady sat staring angrily at them. You two are way too young to be married. She snapped. You could only be in high school.
Pardon me maam? Kevin asked politely, his eyes sparkling with laughter.
You! Youre way too young to be married to that girl! The woman cried angrily.
Were not married. Allison offered.
Then whats with the ring?
Were engaged. And not in school. I teach school, but weve been out of high school for many years now. Allison smiled patiently.
The woman rolled her eyes and turned away. Kevin shot Allison a playful look and laughed. Placing her finger on her lips, she signaled for him to stop, but couldnt help laughing herself.
*****
Slinging her bag over her shoulder, Allison walked up the drive to Kevins older brother, Tims , house. When his wife answered the door, she greeted them warmly. We had no idea you two were coming! She beamed.
Surprise. Kevin took a hold of Allisons shoulders.
Winter had arrived. Christmas would be spent at Reneé, and Brians house, once they returned from Kentucky.
Ushering them into the foyer of the house, Tim emerged from the back. Train!
He cried, wrapping his younger sibling in a tight hug, What makes you come here? And your little lady too?
We came to meet the new addition to the family. Kevin smiled. Plus, were getting married in June. So I thought a little family visit with her would bring us all closer.
Tim snorted and rolled his eyes at the comment. Allison laughed. its not like were distant, man. We are brothers.
Yeah, Kevin agreed, but, you guys havent gotten to know each other very well. Just then, Ann Richardson entered, carrying the infant, Daniel. Noticing her youngest son, she handed the child to its mother, and ran to hug Kevin. Baby, what are you doing here?
I came to see Danny. He hugged his mom back.
Allison! She cried. Its so nice to see you again!
You too. Allison hugged the woman warmly. How have you been?
Wonderful! You guys planning on adding to my list of grandchildren? Ann smiled warmly at the couple.
They both blushed. I would love to. Allison finally murmured, watching the floor.
Well, Kevin smiled awkwardly, lets see this little guy.
Lifting the infant, he smiled and rocked him. Hes so sweet! He smiled at Allison. Wanna hold him?
Please?
Placing Daniel, into her arms, he hugged her about the waist as Allison cradled the baby. Hes beautiful. she whispered breathlessly. Kissing the top of his tiny head, she breathed in the scent of baby powder, and lotion. I want one, she whispered to Kevin.
After she handed Daniel back to his mother, Kevin whispered, Well work on it after the wedding. Smiling, he kissed her, underneath the mistletoe.
Pulling away and laughing, Allison linked arms with her future husband, and plunked herself into his lap on the couch.
Tim, laughing hysterically, shook his head at his younger brother. Please dont discuss that in front of the children. He grinned referring to his newborn son.
If you think thats bad, dont let AJ anywhere near him. Allison beamed.
Kevin chuckled. Now thats true, he agreed.
We can only stay a day or two. Christmas is coming and we have plans.
Ann shook her head. Youre going to have trouble leaving.
Thats why I booked us for tomorrow.
The next afternoon, after saying their good-byes, Allison and Kevin arrived in the airport so they cold make it to Brian and Reneés house on time for the Christmas partying.
When I think of how life used to be/ Always waking in the shadows/ Then I look at what youve given me/ I feel like dancing on my tiptoes./ I must say that everyday I wake/ And realize youre at my side/ I know Im truly blessed/ For everything youve given me/ Blessed for all the tenderness you show/ Ill do my best/ With every breath thats in me/ Blessed/ To make sure you never go/ There are times that test your faith/ Till you think you might surrender/ And baby Im not ashamed to say/ That my hopes were growing slender/ You walked by in the nick of time/ Looking like an answered prayer/ I know Im truly blessed/ For everything youve given me/ Blessed for all the tenderness you show/ Ill do my best/ With every breath thats in me/ Blessed/ To make sure you never go/ Im blessed with loved and understanding/ Blessed when I hear you call my name/ Ill do my best with faith thats never ending/ Blessed to make sure you feel the same/ Deep inside of me/ You fill me with your gentle touch/ I know Im truly blessed/ For everything you give me/ Blessed for the tenderness you show/ Ill do my best/ With every breath thats in me/ Blessed/ To make sure you never go.
--Blessed, Christina Aguilera
Chapter 29
Reneé pushed the final boxes under the tree in her and Brians living room. Pushing herself upright, she smiled at the house. It was spotless. She and Brian werent exactly the tidiest people. Well, Brian was down-right messy. Reneé just picked up when she had to.
Since she and B had moved in together, Reneé actually missed the friendly bickering between the other girls. Well, she loved being with Brian, but she missed so many people in one house. Thats why she decided to throw the Christmas bash here.
Neé? Brian called.
What?
Everything ready? He wrapped her in his arms, pulling her under the mistletoe. Reneé kissed his nose. Yep. They should be here any second now. She kissed him playfully on the lips.
A pounding on the door announced their guests arrival. Nick and Megan came running into the large living room. Megan carefully placed her gifts under the tree. She stood up and gave Reneé a huge hug. Merry Christmas! she cried. This place is gorgeous!
I know! Its huge too! Reneé giggled.
Nick grinned at his girlfriend from the doorway. Pointing up, he grabbed Megan and kissed her under the mistletoe. Megan giggled happily and held him close. Merry Christmas, she breathed.
The second knock alerted Reneé that AJ and Hami just arrived. Yall behaving? AJ laughed as he bounced into the foyer, his arm lazily draped on Hamidahs shoulder.
Always. Megan grinned, eyes sparkling wickedly. Are you?
Nope. When have you ever seen me behave?
Hamidah laughed. So, youre trying to give me the bad wrap too?
Why not? AJ laughed. We are partners in crime!
Hamidah laughed, plopping into a large loveseat. Pulling AJ next to her, she sat whispering in his ear.
The third knock announced Howie and Jessicas arrival. Jessica squealed and hugged everyone, giving each their gift. Howie laughed. Jessi, relax.
I cant! This is a wonderful place! I love everyone here! I bet already, this is going to be a special moment well all remember, always.
Howie kissed her, laughing merrily.
Where are the Richardsons? AJ asked teasingly.
You know Kevins always late, Brian replied knowingly.
Yes, but Allisons always early, Reneé pointed out. Especially for a party.
Oh well, AJ chirped. Theyll be here. Lets get this party started!
Lively music filled the house, adding to the cheerful spirit. The group turned off the lights in the living room, and just danced to the lights flashing on the gigantic Christmas tree.
I see the partys already started! Kevin called over the music. Dropping his overnight bag, he hugged all his friends, wishing them a merry Christmas.
We arent going to sit around and wait for you! Reneé joked. Youre an hour and a half late.
Thats nothing new! Allison mumbled. She looked frustrated from the long plane ride.
Can I get you guys something? Reneé smiled.
Not yet, thanks.
****
Cuddled by the fire, waiting for midnight, the couples talked amongst themselves.
Brian, interrupting the conversations, called out, I need everyones attention. Especially Reneés.
Reneé felt the room grow silent around her. She stared up at Brian curiously. What?
He pulled her to her feet. We have a wonderful family here tonight. I feel that its a good time as any. I love you, Neé. I cant live without you. Reneé felt her heart fluttering in her chest. Brian kneeled. Will you marry me?
Oh gosh, yes! She wrapped her arms around Brians neck as the group burst into applause.
I have an idea! Howie exclaimed. The group turned to him. Well, how about we tell everyone what we love most about each other. You know, I tell Jessi, Kevin tells Allison, Brian tells Reneé, AJ tells Hamidah, and Nick tells Megan.
Ill start! Nick linked his fingers into Megans. I love how Megan is always so happy and so beautiful. How she doesnt get angry at all, and shes always there for me. He kissed her.
Well you, Nick, Megan gazed into his eyes, always find something to laugh about. You love me with all your heart and never let anyone feel sad. It also doesnt hurt that youre so good looking.
AJ can do better. Hamidah grinned.
I can try, AJ agreed. Hami, I love how youve captured my heart. You never seem to allow anyone to feel sad if youre there, and you brighten every room.
Hamidah kissed him. Well, Mr. Romantic, I love your wild spirit, and your large heart. I love how you always know what to say. You always will love me, no matter what.
Howie held Jessica close. Jessi, you are so innocent. I love how you can make everyone love you for your bright personality. You stay strong through the rough times and never want anyone you care for give up. I love how your smile lights up your face. I just love you!
Jessica beamed. Howie, youre always there for everyone, never letting them down. You have strong family values and keep your mother very close, always. You respect the world, even if theyre a cruel person. I dont know how you do it. I love you too!
Kevin pulled Allison into his lap. I love you. You love everyone too. I love how you always want to take the best care of me. The way you go along with anything. Youre always willing to help and work your hardest. Youre so pretty! He kissed her.
Youre one of Peoples sexiest men, Allison laughed. I love how you look out for others, and try to protect me for... I dunno. I love how you always find some way to make me fall even deeper in love with you. I know well have a wonderful life together.
Reneé felt Brian hug her tightly. I love you for you, Reneé, he murmured. Youre always happy and try to help as much as possible. I cant express in words just what you mean to me . Itd be impossible because this feeling is so powerful!
Reneé gazed up at Brian and sighed happily. I dont know what I did to deserve you, Brian, but whatever I did must have been that of a saint to be rewarded with you. Im blessed with someone who will always try to brighten my day, and keep me laughing so hard. I love how you put me first and make sure Im happy. Its going to make me so happy to fall asleep and wake up beside you every day. I love you.
Reneé relaxed into Brians arms feeling drowsy from the warmth and love that finally filled the room. She felt happy for everyone, knowing they had all found home.
In these moments, moments of all our lives/ All the world is ours/ And this world is so right/ You and I sharing this time together/ Sharing the same dream/ As the time goes by, we will find/ These are the special times/ Times well remember/ These are the precious times/ The tender times well hold in our hearts forever/ These are the sweetest times/ These times together/ And through it all one thing will always be true/ The special times are the ones I share with you
--The Special Times, Celine Dion
The End