The next morning Sandra arrived early to collect Mandy for the surgery. Mandy hadn't slept all that well during the night because she was scared and worried about the surgery. She'd almost opened up and told Chris but didn't because she didn't want him to worry as he had so on his hands already.
When Mandy was being wheeled out of the room Chris asked where she was going.
"Don't worry Chrissy I'll be back later" she managed to say calmly.
***
When she did return some 3 hours later she was heavily drugged and completely out of it. Sandra helped put Mandy to bed before pulling the curtain around her bed.
"Is Mandy ok?" Chris asked as he stirred
"Oh ah yeah she's sleeping now and I'll check on her later"
"Sandra. She is ok isn't she?"
"Yeah she is now"
"Huh? What do you mean by that?"
"You'll have to talk to Mandy about that sorry. I've already said too much. But don't worry she will be find. She just needs to rest now and I'll check on her later"
A few days later.
Mandy hadn't let anyone visit her while she was in the hospital. She kept mainly to herself but talked to Chris occasionally when he was alone. However, when she did she never talked about herself. If he asked about her in anyway she'd changed the subject or else pretend to go to sleep.
All Chris knew was Mandy wanted time to herself and he as well as the others thought she was just suffering from shock. If only they knew what Mandy was really going through? The pain and anguish she felt every minute.
***
During a check up at the hospital Adam mentioned his concern for Mandy to Sandra.
"I'm really worried about her. She won't talk to me or let any of us see her. Is it natural?"
"Yeah after everything Mandy's been through. It's natural that she'd feel a little down and want to keep to herself. Just give her a little space and time. She should be back to normal soon."
"Oh thanks Sandra" Adam said with a smile, "you make everything so much clearer and easier to understand"
"Hey not a problem, that's what I'm here for" she said resting her hand on his shoulder, "just be gentle when you do get a chance to talk to her"
"I'll try my hardest. I just hope she'll listen to me"
"Just be patient"
"Easy for you to say"
"I know but trust me on this one. I don't have a medical degree for nothing you know"
"Oh so that's what it's for" Adam joked
"Yeah smart ass" Sandra said before they sat in silence for a few minutes. Adam broke this by saying,
"Hey Sandra I was wondering something"
"Oh and what's that?"
"Well you see we have a huge post Pay Per View party coming up and I was wondering if you'd like to come"
"Oh I ah don't know"
"The others will be there and they'd all like you to come. Kinda like a thank you for being such a great doc. You know and for helping out."
"Oh well if you put it that way, I'd love to"
"Excellent!"
"Just don' think" Sandra started
"Oh I don’t. Just as friends. Or doctor and patient if you'd prefer"
"No friends sounds good to me. How about we exchange phone numbers and then you can call and let me know the details"
"Ok sounds good to me" Adam said as he jotted his phone number down on a piece of paper for Sandra and handed it to her
Chapter Twenty Four
Chris got released from hospital a few days before the big party. He'd tried to convince Mandy that she should go but she bluntly refused. She said she wasn't up for it but said she hoped he have a good time without her.
Sandra gave Chris a quick once over before signing the release papers.
"Ready to go bro?" Sue asked as she entered his room
"Yeah I guess" he said looked over at Mandy's side of the room, "Bye Mandy. Hope you start feeling better soon."
"Yeah bye" she said softly not knowing if he heard her or not.
A tear ran down her face as Chris left because she felt so alone. She'd managed to isolate herself from everyone. People had stopped trying to visit and she knew that things were just going to get worst so she did the only thing she could think of. She pressed her buzzer and within seconds a young nurse arrived.
"Is there anything wrong?" she asked
"Could you get the doc for me please?"
"Of course. She's seeing your friend out but should be finished shortly. Once she has I'll get her to visit you"
"Thank you" Sandra said before rolling back over and facing the other direction.
A short time later Sandra entered the room.
"You wanted to see me?"
"Yeah I was hoping that I could get discharge because there is no way I can stay in here another day."
"Are you sure that's the best idea?"
"Come on doc I'm going crazy in here"
"But how are you feeling?"
"Pretty good. But if you're worried something will happen don't. I'll come back or call if there's any problems"
"Ok but you have to promise me you'll rest"
"Promise"
"I'm serious Mandy. You really need your rest. That means no work, telephones or anything else that will cause stress. Oh and you should talk to your friends. Even if you don't tell them about the operation. They're all really worried about you."
"Thanks but I'll be fine"
"Ok if that's the way you want to be. I'll just get you the papers and then you can leave"
"Thank you" Mandy said slowly getting out of bed and gathered her thing together. Sue had brought them in for her the day after the accident while Mandy was in surgery. As she packed her stuff away, Mandy thought about what Sandra had said to her and she was tempted to call one of her friends to see if they could pick her up but decided against it. She didn't want them to see her in her current state.
Chapter Twenty Five
A short time later Mandy had signed the required paper work and was hopping into a taxi. Sandra had offered to driver her to the hotel because her shift was over but Mandy refused. So after she left, Sandra made her way to the car park. As she walked down the corridor her cell phone rang.
"Hello"
"Hey doc"
"Adam just the man I wanted to talk to:
"Oh and whys that?"
"It's Mandy. I shouldn't be saying this but I think you should check on her"
"But she won't talk to me, let alone let me in her room"
"See that's the thing, she's not at the hospital anymore"
"What? Where is she then?"
"She's discharged herself and is on her way back to the hotel as we speak"
"Oh so maybe I should head down to the lobby. To ah get a drink or something"
"Sounds like you're got yourself an idea there. But remember to be easy on her"
"Ok I will."
"Hey by the way, why did you call?"
"Give you the details for the party, if you're still up for it"
"Yeah of course but how about you call me back after talking to Mandy"
"Ok will do. Well better fly. Bye"
"Bye"
"Hey Sandra"
"Yeah"
"Thanks"
"It's cool. Just go already would you" Adam laughed before hanging up and rushed out of his room. He only hoped Sandra's idea would help mend the bridge between himself and Mandy. Even if Mandy didn't want to go out with him, he was happy just to be friends because they always had so much fun together and since she'd been in hospital Adam had felt emptiness inside.
***
Sue and Chris were heading down the corridor of the hotel when they saw Adam.
"Hey Adam" Chris called
"Hey man, how are you feeling?" Adam asked, "Oh and hey Sue. Sorry about that didn't mean to forget about you"
"Better not have bud. Or else" she said with a laugh
"Oh and I'm pretty good thanks. You off somewhere?" Chris inquired
"Yeah sorry in a bit of a rush but will explain all later. And hey then we could catch up if that's cool"
"Yeah I'd like that"
"Great well see you both soon. And Sue I have to talk to you later as well"
"Ok bye" Sue called with confusion as Adam rushed off towards the lift.
"Gee I wonder what that was all about. Adam seems to be in a better mood though which is good to see." Chris said with a smile.
"Yeah he's been pretty down lately. Guess the whole Mandy thing really got to him"
"Oh I know what that's like. I mean one minute she's fine and her normal self but the next."
"Hey Chris about Mandy" Sue started as she opened the door to Chris's hotel room.
"Let me guess sis, you wanna know if I still like her. Right?"
"Well yeah actually"
There was an uncomfortable silence as they sat down on the couch. Finally Chris said,
"To tell you the truth I don't know. Things have changed so much. Mandy seems so distant. So different. I just don't know what to think or feel at the moment"
"Oh Chris" Sue said before hugging her brother tightly, "I'm sure she'll go back to her old, normal self soon."
***
Adam sat in the hotel lobby with a drink in hand, while he sipped it every so often. He watched as people entered and left the building, some guests, some fellow athletes and some fans. It wasn't until he looked at his watch that he realized he'd probably missed Mandy. He got up from his seat and headed over to the check in counter because he knew she had to pick up the key to her room.
"Excuse me but I was wondering if a Mandy Jones had check in yet" he asked the desk clerk
"Ah yes. But you just missed her Sir"
"Thank you" Adam said before heading off to her room.
***
Adam stood nervously outside Mandy's room after he'd knocked on the door. He wasn't sure what to expect from her. He just hoped she'd listen to him. As the door opened he took a long deep breath. When he saw Mandy he got worried. She looked so pale and not her normal vibrant self.
"Adam what are" she started before fainting. Luckily Adam caught her in his arms and carried her inside. He walked over to the bed and gently placed her down before walking into the bathroom to get a damp face washer. When he returned he placed it on her forehead to cool her down.
When Mandy came around, she stared up into Adam's eyes for a moment before saying,
"What happened?"
"You fainted so I brought you in here"
"Oh thank you. The medication I've been taking does that to me. Just lucky you were here to catch me" Mandy said with a smile
"Just glad your ok. You are ok aren't you?" Adam asked with concern
"Yeah. Just have to rest and take it easy, doctor's orders"
"Is there" Adam started as he got to his feel but stopped when Mandy touched his arm softly.
"Please don't go Adam. Please" she begged, "I don't want to be alone. Please. Can’t you just lie down next to me and keep me company?"
"Oh. I. Ah. Don’t know"
"Please I promise I won't bite"
"Well ok but only if you're sure about this"
"Yeah I am. Thank you" she said before reaching up and kissing Adam on the cheek, which made his blush. Mandy then moved over giving Adam room to sit down. He took his jacket off and placed it on the chair close to the bed before sitting down next to Mandy. When he got comfortable, Mandy moved over and rested her head on his lap, while Adam gently stroked her hair.
Chapter Twenty Six
As Adam sat still stroking Mandy's hair, he could hear his stomach rumbling so he lent over and picked up the phone and dialed for room service cautiously not wanting to wake Mandy.
Around 10 minutes later there was a knock at the door so Adam carefully slid out from under Mandy. When he opened it, he's order awaited him.
"Aw this looks good" he commented, "I'll just get my wallet." As Adam walked back inside the room, Chris walked pass and couldn't help but notice the person outside Mandy's room so he walked over to sort things out. When he saw Adam inside with Mandy he jumped to conclusions figuring that Mandy had made up her mind and gone back to Adam. Chris couldn't understand it. While in the hospital Mandy wouldn't see or speak to Adam and now this.
He didn't bother sticking around; instead he went down to the hotel bar to drown his sorrows.
Chapter Twenty Seven
As Chris hunched over the bar he thought about everything he'd seen hours earlier. Adam in Mandy's hotel room. To help block the thoughts and memories he kept drinking. He didn't care what it was, just so long as it would help him to stop thinking.
"Chris what the hell are you doing here?" Jay asked as he entered the bar, "Shouldn't you be resting or something?" Chris laughed and said drunkenly,
"Jay! Man it's so good to see you"
"God how much have you had?"
"Don't be such a party pooper. I'm fine" Chris stuttered before falling off his stool.
"You're fine huh? Come on I'm taking you back to your room" Jay said as he helped Chris to his feet.
"No I want to stay." Chris protested
"You're coming with me and that's final! So come on,” Jay said putting a supportive arm around Chris's shoulder.
"You're no fun Jay"
"Hey you'll thank me in the morning" Jay said as they stepped into the lift. Jay pressed the button for their level as Chris lent against the corner wall. He didn't stay on his feet long as he slid down the wall and sat sprawled on the ground.
When the lift doors opened on their level Jay helped Chris to his feet again before helping him walked to his room. Once they reached Chris's room Jay said,
"So man, where's your key?"
"Key" What key?"
"To your room"
"Oh you mean this?" he said pulling out his wallet
"Ah no. It should be in your other side pocket"
"So this?" Chris asked as he produced the key to the room and waved it around in the air.
"Yeah and if you give it to me I'll open the door for you"
"I can do it myself"
"Chris tat isn't where you put the key" he said taking it out of his hand before opening the door carefully
"How'd you do that?"
"If you're lucky I'll show you in the morning. Now come on I think you should lie down while I make you some strong coffee."
"Get Mandy to make it. She makes the best coffee"
"But she's not here man. She's still in hospital"
"She's with Adam down the hall." Chris blurted out which took Jay by surprise. He immediately knew why Chris had been drinking. He felt so bad for his friend.
"Come on lets lie you down,” Jay said helping Chris to the bed. He pulled the sheets down before Chris sprawled across the double bed and closed his eyes. After putting the blanket over him Jay walked over to the other side of the room to make the coffee. He tried his hardest to make it the same way that Mandy had taught him, as he knew how much Chris loved it.
"Here you go man" Jay said as he walked towards Chris, "Just the way you like it" Chris opened his eyes slowly before blinking a few times. He sat up and lent against the backboard of the bed as Jay handed him the coffee. He blew on it before taking a long sip.
"Oh gee this is good,” he said before taking another sip, "you sure you're not Mandy dressed as Jay"
"No sorry man. It's only me Jay"
"DAMN! Coz this coffee. Just like she makes it"
"Yeah. You should probably be getting some rest now. Coz you want to be able to perform to your best tomorrow"
"Yes Mummy" he said taking the last mouthful. "Can you tuck me in?"
"God you're hopeless,” he said pulling the blankets up and over Chris after he'd lay back down. "There you go. How does that feel?"
"Much better thank you"
"Well good" he said as he walked over to the couch,
"Where are you going?"
"To lie down on the couch. There's no way I'm leaving you alone tonight"
"Worried I might do something stupid?"
"Not like you haven't already and beside I noticed your pain killers and you know you're not meant to have them with alcohol, so I'm staying to make sure nothing bad happens during the night"
"It's not like you haven't done it before"
"Yeah but we aren't talking about me now are we?"
"Well. Well fine! Goodnight!"
"I think you mean morning" Jay joked
"Oh shut up would you,” Chris said as he turned off the light and went to sleep.
Chapter Twenty Eight
"Morning" Adam said with a smile as Mandy awoke the next morning.
"Adam"
"Yeah"
"I'm really sorry"
"What for?" he asked as he stroked her hair softly
"For blocking you out"
"Don't worry about it"
"No really I am. I. I didn't know what to do or think and I feel really bad about forgetting you"
"Mandy it's ok, really"
"No it isn't. Adam I need to say this so you understand. I was scared. Not knowing most things. Then I started getting memories back. One’s I'd rather forget, like 'that' morning and what you said to me" Mandy paused as a tear ran down her face. Adam gently wiped it away and was about to speak when Mandy cut him off.
"Please let me finish" Adam nodded giving her the go ahead to continue, "That's why I pushed you away. I honestly thought that's what you thought. Then when I got other memories back I realized how wrong I was and I wanted to tell you. Really I did but then. Well things changed and got complicated. I just want you to know how very sorry I am"
"I can't deny that you hut me but being with you last night and hearing all of that makes me realize just how special you are to me and I never want to loose you." Adam said softly, his words really touched her and tears rolled freely down her face. Adam put his arms around her as she rested her head on his chest.
***
As Chris awoke his head was throbbing. He couldn't believe the pain he felt. It was like his head was going to explode. It was made worse by the bright sunlight that shone through the opened curtain.
"How are you feeling this morning?" Jay asked as he walked over the other side of the room to make coffee.
"Did you have to open the bloody curtains?"
"Hey I had to wake you up some how"
"Haven't you heard of the more conventional way of shaking?"
"Yeah but this was more enjoyable" Chris groaned before burying his head under his doona.
"Come on get this into you" Jay said pulling back the doona and handing Chris the coffee, "and if you're really lucky I'll give you something stronger for the headache"
"Thanks man but can you please shit the bloody curtains now" he whispered
"Ok but only if you promise not to go back to sleep"
"Yeah anything. Just please the curtains" Chris said shielding his eyes with one hand while drinking the coffee held in the other.
"After that, it's straight into the shower. Because we don't want to be later now do we?"
"Well that wouldn't be all that bad" he said taking the last mouthful of coffee
"Yes it would and you know it. Now off you go. I'll be back once I've changed
"You're such a bossy boots" Chris sulked as he headed to the bathroom.
Chapter Twenty Nine
After lying in each others arms for a while Adam turned to Mandy and said,
"I better get moving. I have to be at the arena shortly"
"Ok but be careful"
"I could always stay. Tell Vince that you need looking after"
"No don't be silly. I'll be fine on my own. Anyway I'll probably be sleeping most of the time."
"Ok but you know my number of you need me. No matter what it is I'll come straight away"
"Thank you it means a lot to me" Mandy said kissing him softly on the cheek. Adam then looked at Mandy noticing how much happier she seemed. He smiled before kissing her softly on the lips.
"I'll come and see you later after the show if you want."
"Sounds good to me" Mandy replied as Adam got up from the bed. He blew her a kiss before grabbing his jacked and shoes and headed out the door.
As Adam headed back to his room, he saw Jay.
"Hey man" he called which startled Jay slightly
"Hey yourself" Jay said raising his eyebrows and smiling widely
"And what's that suppose to mean?"
"Have fun last night with Mandy?" Adam stood shocked at what he just hear,
"How" he started
"I just know these things and anyway, why else would you be smiling so much?" Jay said with a nudge
"We didn't do anything like that"
"Uh huh. You better get a move on if you want a lift to the arena"
"I'm gonna take my rental but thanks for the offer."
"Ok but don't be late" Jay instructed
"Ok" Adam said stepping into his room and shutting the door when Jay walked off on his way.
***
When Jay and Chris arrived at the arena they were stopped by Sue and Jeff calling to them.
"How are we this morning?" Sue asked happily. Chris just groaned and continued to walk off.
"What's wrong with Chris? Didn't he get to see Mandy?"
"Oh he saw her all right but she was with Adam. In her hotel room"
"Oh no, no wonder he's in a bad mood"
"Yeah and to make things worse I found him completely wasted in the bar last night. So I guess you could say he's feeling the after affects this morning"
"Maybe I should go and talk to him,” Sue suggested, as she was concerned for her brother
"Sue honey I think he might be wanting sometime to himself. Don't you agree Jay?"
"Yeah he's not been himself this morning."
"If you're sure, I just hate seeing him like this. It really upsets me."
"Yeah I know what you mean. Feel like getting a coffee before the show?"
"Oh you read my mind Jay" Sue said with a little smile.
Chapter Thirty
As Adam finished off at the arena, he grabbed his bag before jumping into his rental. He didn't know what it was, but he felt like there was something wrong with Mandy. He sped along the roads and managed to avoid all traffic on the main roads. When he reached the hotel he jumped out of the car and swiftly made his way to her room.
When he reached her room he abruptly knocked on the door, as he was so anxious to see her.
"Mandy! Mandy its Adam. Please let me in." he called. Finally after a few minutes the door slowly opened. Adam instantly wrapped his arms securely around her keeping her safe. He could feel her shaking uncontrollably and knew there was something wrong.
"Are you ok?" he asked finally as they made their way inside the room.
"No" she answered as tears welled up before finally rolling down her reddened cheeks.
"What happened?"
"He. He rang"
"What did he say?"
"That you were meant to die in the crash. And that he wouldn't rest till he got me"
"I won't let that happen Mandy. As long as I'm here he won't touch you"
"But he'll hurt you. He said so"
"I don't care. You're too important to me and I won't rest till you're safe. Even if it means being with you 24/7"
"You sure?"
"Of course I am,” he said pulling her back into his arms.
Chapter Thirty One
A few days later
Mandy and Adam sat together talking on Adam's bed
"Are you sure you don't want to go tonight?
"Not unless you come with me"
"But you know I need to rest. And besides, I want you to go out and have some fun."
"I'm not leaving you alone here."
"But then what are you going to do about Sandra? You can't cancel on her now"
"I'm not. I mean I've worked out a way that she can go to the party and I can stay here and have a quiet night in with you"
"We had a quiet night last night and every other night this week for that matter,” Mandy pointed out
"What it's a crime for me to want to spend time with my girlfriend?"
"Well no"
"Good! Now come here,” he said pulling her into a passionate embrace which got interrupted a few minutes later by a knock at the door.
"That'll be Sandra" Adam said getting to his feet and straightened himself out before opening the door.
"Wow doc, you look gorgeous tonight,” he said being blown away by how good she looked. It was so much different from the white lab coat she wore at work.
"Thanks" Sandra said blushing a little, "but umm am I too dressed up" she asked noticing Adam's casual attire
"Oh no you look great and will fit in fine, don't worry" Adam said with a pause after realizing she was referring to what he was wearing, "Yeah umm I" he started before there was another knock at the door.
"Hey Matt" Adam said noticing Matt standing beside Sandra in the corridor
"What's the emergency? I came as soon as I got your message" Matt said putting slightly and stopped when he took a closer look Sandra. He couldn't seem to be able to take his eyes off her. "Oh umm sorry did I interrupt something here?" he asked
"No actually your right on time" Matt and Sandra both looked at him with confusion, "You see Mandy doesn't feel up to going out tonight and well I was hoping that you two could got together. I know it's a little short notice but you both want to go so why not together" Sandra and Matt stood looking at each other not knowing what to say or do. Finally Mandy got up and walked over to the door to join them and said,
"I'm so sorry guys. I have no idea that he was planning this, otherwise I would never have let it happen"
"No it's ok. If Sandra doesn't mind going to the party with me because I'd really love the company" Matt said smiling at Sandra
"You sure about this? I'd understand if you didn't, seeing we hardly know each other" Sandra said cautiously
"I'm positive. These parties can get really boring if you don't have anyone to talk to. So what do you say?"
"I'd love to go with you" Sandra said returning the smile
"Excellent! You better look after her Hardy! Don't let her leave your sight because we don't want her caught in some boring conversation now do we?"
"Don't worry Adam, she'll be fine but we better get going and leave you two alone" he said with a wink
"Ok once again I'm so sorry about this" Mandy said apologetically
"Oh don't be. I'm sure I'm in good hands,” Sandra said
"You sure are" Matt said as he took her hand gently and started walking down the corridor, "bye"
"Have a good night you two" both Mandy and Adam called before returning inside their room.
"I so can't believe that you just did that"
"What? It worked didn't it? And besides they look good together"
"Oh so your playing match maker now"
"Yep" Adam said as he pounced onto the bed where Mandy was lying, "you going to stop me?"
"Too late now" Mandy laughed before leaning up and kissing Adam softly.
***
"I'm not going" Chris announced as Sue walked into his room.
"Why not? You can't mope in here forever you know"
"I don't want to and it's final"
"If you're worried about seeing Mandy and Adam together don't because she's not going"
"Huh?"
"I talked to her yesterday. And she's been told to rest"
"Well that's good for her. I'm still don't want to go"
"Geez, Chris your such a pain. Everyone wants to see you tonight so come on. You've got 10 minutes to get ready or else"
"Or else what?"
"I'll tell everyone about the teddy you still sleep with"
"You wouldn't"
"Try me and see" Chris didn't have to think about his response. He knew his sister well enough and knew that she would indeed tell everyone.
"Ok, ok ill go but I won't have fun"
"Just go and get ready" Sue instructed.
As Chris walked off to change Sue gave Jeff a call to let him know what was happening.
Chapter Thirty Two
"So what will it be?" the bar tender asked as Sandra and Matt sat down on the bar stools.
"Rum and coke" they replied in unison which made them both laugh
"Wow" Sandra finally said with a smile
"Looks like we have something in common"
"Yeah and some how I've got a feeling that isn't the only thing" Sandra commented as their drinks arrived. Sandra went to pay but Matt refused insisting that he pay.
"Thank you"
"It's my pleasure. Just glad to see you've got good taste in drinks"
"That isn't the only thing,” Sandra said softly so that Matt couldn't hear what she said/
"Sorry what was that? I didn't quite catch it"
"Oh ah nothing" Sandra blushed
***
When Sue, Jeff and Chris arrived they were surprised to see Matt talking to Sandra at the bar.
"So what would you two like to drink?" Jeff asked
"Jeff don't even think about it, leave your brother alone." Sue instructed
"What makes you think I'd embarrass him like that?"
"Oh I know how your mind works baby. Just don't do it. Leave them both alone"
"Yeah, yeah. So what will it be?"
"The usual" Sue replied
"Vodka and make it a double." Chris replied
"Ok be back shortly" Jeff replied with a smile
"Bro you better take it easy tonight on the grog."
"Why? It's not like we have a show tomorrow. We get to go home at long last and its not like we have far to travel"
"Just please try and act yourself tonight and don't do anything stupid"
"Relax would you. Your worse than mum sometimes"
"I'm sorry but I worry about you. I just hate seeing you like this"
"Thanks sis but I'll be fine really. You don't need to worry about me. I just need sometime."
"If you're sure"
"I'm sure"
"DAMN!"
"What?"
"Jeff. He’s heading over to Matt and Sandra"
"Don't worry about him. I'm sure he won't do anything too bad,” Chris laughed
"I still think I better go over and stop him. I'll be back shortly. Why don't you find somewhere to sit while I'm gone?"
"Ok"
***
Matt and Sandra were deep in conversation and didn't notice Jeff approach them. It wasn't until he tugged at Matt's arm that they realized.
"Jeff" Matt exclaimed, "You know Sandra don't you?"
"Yeah nice to see you again doc"
"Likewise Jeff and under better circumstances"
"I hope my big bro's been looking after you"
"Yeah he's been a real gentleman and we're having a great time together so far. Right?"
"Most definitely. Wouldn't want to be here with anyone else,” he said with a smile
"And how long have you known each other? Coz you're already acting like a couple" Jeff joked as Sue arrived
"Jeff don't you think you should leave them alone?"
"No, not really. I'm having a great time"
"Come on let's just get our drinks and leave these two alone"
"But"
"No buts, come on" Sue said picking up the tray of drinks in one hand and dragging Jeff with the other. "Sorry about this guys. Hope you have a great night" Sue called as they walked off.
"I'm going to kill Jeff next time I see him" Matt said with embarrassment.
"Don't worry about it. I mean that's what siblings are for. Mine do it to me all the time"
"Yeah you're right but I'd still like to thump him"
"Hey if that will make you feel better but as a doctor I really don't recommend it"
"Maybe you're right"
"Come on we both know I am" Sandra laughed
"Yeah well enough about Jeff. Do you want to dance?" Matt said holding out his hand to Sandra
"I'd love to" Sandra said taking hold of Matt's hand. He led her out to the dance floor where fellow party goers were.
***
When Jeff and Sue found Chris he was sitting at a table with Jay.
"Sorry about leaving you like that bro"
"Don't worry. Did you get to Jeffie boy in time before he embarrassed Matt?"
"Hey I was never going to embarrass Matt" Jeff protested
"Oh yeah we believe you man" Chris said laughing loudly with Jay and Sue
"Ok so I was interested to see what was going on between the two. You can't blame a guy for being curious now can you? I mean geez you did the same thing Chris when Sue and I started going out"
"That's because I'm very protective of my baby sister"
"And that's exactly why I didn't want you being mosey with those two. They deserve some privacy. And hey for all we know they could just be friends and nothing more" Sue said
"Oh yeah they sure look like friends" Jeff joked, "I can't remember the last time I saw Matt having such a good time with a girl and on the dance floor"
"Jeff" Sue said sternly
"Ok, ok I'll leave them alone if that will make you happy"
"Thank you" Sue said kissing Jeff softly
"Oh gee I could get use to this" Jeff said with a smile before kissing Sue again.
"Get a room would you" Chris said
"You're just jealous because..." Sue started before stopping when she realized just what she was going to say, "Oh Chris I'm so sorry. I wasn't thinking"
"No. No you weren't" Chris said getting up and walking over to the bar
"DAMN! I just had to put my foot in it didn't I. And he was actually enjoying himself"
"Don't worry about it Sue. I'll go and talk to him. I'm sure he'll be fine. Probably just wanted an excuse to get another drink,” Jay said with a smile as standing up.
"Thanks Jay." Sue said prior to Jay following Chris to the bar.
Chapter Thirty Three
While Adam was in the bathroom there was a knock at the door. Mandy made her way to the door unaware of what awaited her. She inched the door opened expecting to see the room service awaiting, however, she found a nicely wrapped box. She didn't think too much of it and bent down and picked it up. There was a little envelop that had her name on it which made her smile. She walked back into the room and closed the door behind her. As she walked back to the bed she started to untie the ribbon.
When she finally did, she let it drift carelessly to the floor. This allowed her to open the lid of the box freely. When she saw what was inside she felt scared and sick to the stomach. Mandy let out a scream which made Adam come running to her side with a towel wrapped around his waist.
"MJ are you ok? What's the matter?" All Mandy could do was point to the package which now lay on the floor. Adam knelt down and pick up the contents.
"Holly Shit" Adam said before wrapping his arms around her
"Come on let's get out stuff together and head back home tonight"
"Will it be safe?" Mandy asked
"Safer than staying here. You never know what this sicko is planning. I'm sorry MJ it's probably not what you want to hear. I just think it'll be better"
"Ok. The sooner we get out of here the better. It's really creeping me out"
"You start packing and I'll give Jay a call to let him know what's happening"
***
"Wow I still can't believe tonight. I had a terrific time. Thank you so much"
"Hey it was my please. I wouldn't have had this much fun without you. I'm telling you now"
"Oh Matt that's so sweet of you. Oh and an you tell Adam for me that I'll get him back for this"
"Bit I thought"
"Relax! I did. I just want some revenge. Just have to think of something appropriate."
"Oh I love the way you think! If you need any help I'm more than willing to help out"
"I'll keep that in mind" Sandra said with a smile, "would you like to come in for a coffee or something?"
"Thanks for the offer but I better not. Got a bit of traveling tomorrow and we've got a house show"
"I thought you said it was 30 minutes away"
"Well yeah it is"
"So you could come in then"
"I could but."
"But what?" Sandra said with concern
"Oh well"
"If you don't want to it's cool"
"No it's not that because I'd really love too"
"Then?"
"Ok I'll tell you" Matt said before taking a long, deep breath, "I'm just worried I'll do something. To ruin tonight - because I don't think I can keep my hands off you any longer"
"Oh is that all" Sandra said with a laugh which confuse Matt, until she lent forward and kissed him softly on the lips. When they parted they looked deeply into each other’s eyes. Before they knew what was happening, they were kissing again but this time more deeply. They moved together into the house and headed straight to Sandra's room.
Chapter Thirty Four
Adam and Mandy arrived back at the house they were extremely exhausted. On their way back, they had gotten stuck in a huge storm so decided to stop off at a little diner to get something to eat while it died down.
They dropped there bags off at the door before stumbling inside. They ended up falling asleep on the couch in each other’s arms because they didn't have the energy to walk to Adam's room.
In the morning they were awoken when Chris and Jay returned home. Chris took one look at the happy couple before heading straight to his room. He knew it was going to be tough living with them but not this tough so early in the morning. Jay said his hellos to them both before following Chris upstairs. He wanted to make sure that his friend was ok.
Mandy sat up and watch as they both disappeared upstairs, noticing the hurt in Chris's eyes.
"I've really hurt him haven't I?"
"Oh MJ come here" Adam said pulling her into a tight embrace, "just give him a bit of time. You’ll see things will be back to normal in no time"
"I just hope you're right"
"Of course I am but if it will make it better I could have a talk to him for you"
"Oh no please don't do that"
"You sure?"
"Yeah coz if anything I should be the one to talk to him" Mandy said before pausing, "actually would you mind if I went to talk to him now?"
"Not at all. While you do that I'll make a start on breakfast"
"Thank you" Mandy said kissing Adam softly before heading up the stairs to Chris's room.
***
When she got upstairs she could hear Jay and Chris talking. She stood and listened for a little bit before summoning up enough courage to walk up and knock on the door of Chris's room. The guys were both startled by this and even more so when they saw who it was.
"Sorry to umm interrupt but I was hoping that I could talk to you" Mandy said looking at Chris
"What about?" he said in an unfriendly tone.
"Come on man give the girl a go and hear her out"
"Fine. Come in" Chris managed to say uneasily
"I'll leave you both to it" Jay said as he made his way to the door, "Just try not to kill each other" he joked before disappearing out the door.
Once Jay left there was an uneasy silence between the two until Mandy said softly,
"I'm really sorry Chris. I didn't mean to hurt you" Chris just looked at her, as he couldn't bring himself to say anything. Mandy felt so far away standing at the door so she moved inside shutting the door behind her and sat opposite him on the bed. Finally Chris said,
"I really thought you liked me" he tried to hold back his tears without much luck. A few rolled down his cheek which tore Mandy up inside because she know how strong Chris was and that he never wanted anyone to see him this way.
"I do like you Chris" Mandy said wiping the tears away, "but only as friends". Chris pulled back from her momentarily before asking,
"So you never felt anything more? Or wanted anything more?" Mandy immediately looked away because she knew the answer to the question but couldn't bring herself to answer it.
Chris gently brought a hand to Mandy's cheek and turned her head so that they were looking at each other closely. Before they knew what was happening, Chris was on top of her kissing her lustfully. At first Mandy tried to push Chris away but eventually got caught up in the intensity of the kiss. It was only when there was a knock at the door some minutes later that they parted quickly. Mandy quickly fixed her hair as she walked to the door and opened it. Jay stood before her and said,
"When you two are done killing one another breakfast is ready"
"Oh were done" Mandy said rushing out of the room and down the corridor
"Talk thinks through?"
"Yeah I guess you could say that" Chris said with a smile
"Good and I'm glad to see you smiling again" Chris waked Jay playfully before the two made their way downstairs.
***
Mandy rushed down the stairs and locker herself in the bathroom to gather her thoughts. She couldn't believe what just took place but what made things worse was that she really enjoyed it.
"Hey Mandy are you ok in there?" Adam called a while later. She splashed some water on her face before opening the door. "Are you ok? You don't look too good I just hope you're not coming down with anything"
"Oh I'll be fine. Just might go and lie down for a little bit"
"What about breakfast?"
"I'm not all that hungry so I'll grab something later"
"Ok well you only need to call and I'll come running" Adam said with a cheeky smile
"Thank you" Mandy said kissing him softly on the cheek before walking off to Adam's room
***
"How is she?" Jay asked as Adam returned to the kitchen
"She's not feeling too well and has gone to lie down"
"That's strange. I mean she seemed fine only moments before" Jay commented
"Oh it's probably a bug or exhaustion. She hasn't been sleeping to well lately"
"What's that?" Chris asked
"That guys back. That's why we came back last night"
"Oh my gosh! No wonder she's been so distant"
"Yeah but this time it was worse."
***
Adam had just finished filling the guys in on the stalker when the door bell rang. Jay got up from the table and ran excitably to the door
"Hey guys! Please come in" he said to Jeff and Sue, "where's Matt?"
"Don't know, he didn't make it back to the hotel last night"
"Way to go Matt"
"What's that about Matt?" Adam asked curiously
"He never made it back to the hotel. Must have gotten lucky"
"Oh so he and Sandra got on well then"
"Yeah but how did you know?" Jeff asked slightly confused
"Oh I have my ways" Adam said with a laugh
"I should have guessed you were involved with this" Jeff replied
"Hey sorry to interrupt but where's Mandy?" Sue inquired
"She's taking a lie down in my room but I'm sure she'd love to see you"
"Excellent! Anything to get away from you four"
"Hey"
"Well you're so boring" she joked before vanishing into Adam's room.
***
"Hey Mandy are you awake?" Sue whispered as she walked into the darkened room.
"Sue what are you doing here?" Mandy asked
"I'll answer that if you'll let me turn the light on"
"Yeah ok deal but can you dim the lights a bit. I don't think my eyes are ready for the bright light" Mandy then sat up in the bed while Sue turned on the light. When the light was on Sue looked at Mandy for a moment before saying,
"You don't look too good. What happened?"
"Your brother" Mandy said under her breath
"Oh sorry what was that?"
"Oh ah I said um I'm just tired. Nothing major"
"Oh yeah sure, Adam's keeping you up at night isn't he." Sue said with a wink, "and that's why you didn't come last night"
"Sue!"
"What? Everyone knows, it's cool. well with most that is"
"Oh somehow I think I know the person. He wouldn't happen to be related to you would he?"
"That obvious huh?"
"Yeah"
"Hey you know if you ever need to talk I'm here for you hun" Sue said with a smile
"Thanks" Mandy said giving her a hug, "I just wish your brother was this easy to talk to"
"Just give him a bit of time . but I could talk to him for you if you'd like"
"Oh no please don't do that. It will make this worse"
"Ok if you're sure"
"Yeah I am but thanks for the offer"
"Not a problem. So are you going to come and join the others with me? Because it's been ages since we've all been together"
"Yeah I know but I ah" Mandy started
"It's cool. Just if you feel up to it please come out"
"Ok" Mandy said as she lay back down
"We'll I'll pop in and see you later"
"Thanks Sue" Mandy replied as she shut her eyes. Sue turned off the light and left Adam's room, closing the door behind her, leaving Mandy to think about things.
***
When Sue returned to join the others, she was slightly surprised to see Chris away from them. She walked over to him and said,
"Hey big bro. what's on your mind?"
"Like you need to ask"
"Oh . well how about you come and join in with the others, to take your mind off things"
"Yeah I guess so but umm before we do, how is she?"
"You mean Mandy?"
"Yeah who else would I be talking about?" Chris said abruptly
"Hey easy, she seems really distracted which knowing Mandy means she's got a lot on her mind. But hopefully with a little rest and sometime to think she'll be back to her normal self"
"Just so long as she's ok"
"Yeah I'm sure she will be . but come on I'm starved" Chris just laughed at his sister and followed her out to the deck.
