Chapter – 8

The weeks quickly passed by and the New Year rolled in with Adam and I sitting on the couch watching horror flicks, as Mom went out with Matt. Sadly for us, school started up again on Monday, and every time I see Jax, I can’t help but to blush at the fact I had seen him half naked. Today after school, I sit down on the love seat across from Adam who had stayed  home sick, laying on the couch watching tv. I still can’t get the thought out of my mind with Jax standing in my room shirtless, leaving all of his tattoos exposed on his wet muscular body. Suddenly the sound of Adam’s voice snaps me back into reality. “Earth to Faith! What has you staring into outer space?” he chuckles. “Very funny! I’m just trying to think of something to do this evening since I don’t have any homework,” I reply. “Actually, I have something to ask you, more of a favor really,” Adam says as he sneezes into his tissue. “What is it?” I ask curiously. “Can you fill in for me tonight? I’m supposed to go with Jax to see a movie, but Mom says I can’t go because I’m sick,” he says. “Sure, I can fill in for you. I mean it’s no problem really,” I tell him. A small smile spreads across his face as it’s interrupted with yet another sneeze. “And this is why you aren’t going anywhere young man. Not with your fever and with you sneezing like that,” Mom tells him. “What time is Jax supposed to be picking you up?” I ask Adam. “He said he would be here by six,” Adam replies. “Alright so I should have plenty of time to….. CRAP! Adam! It’s almost five now! Ugh! I better hurry and find something to wear!” I exclaim and rush off to get ready for the movie. 

Once I’m showered, dressed, and have my hair and makeup done, my cell phone rings. I look on the screen of my phone to see that it’s Heather calling me. I run my index finger across the phone symbol which is highlighted in green to answer the incoming call. “Heather, hi,” I tell her in a friendly tone. “Hey bestie! I’m sorry I haven’t talked to you in a while. I have been going to a family councilor with my parents to help with our family issues. How have you been?” she asks. I smile and reply, “actually things have been going great! My mom is getting married again! Oh Heather, you should meet him. Adam and I have really grown close to him, and consider him as our Dad. I know he can’t replace our father, but he really is the best!” I tell her excitedly. “That sounds great! How’s things with your boyfriend? Uh… what’s his name? Kevin?” she asks. “Sadly it wasn’t meant to be. I told him everything and he flipped a lid. I mean I really liked him, but when I told him my actual age, and that I’m still in high school, he got really mad. He dropped me off at the house and I never heard from him again,” I reply. “Oh no! I’m really sorry to hear that. I thought he would be good for you, the only thing I know that your mom wouldn’t approve of is his age. Say, how’s Jax? Is he still as charming as I remember him being?” she asks. ‘Why would she ask about Jax? I mean does she somehow know that I have the hots for him? Naw, how could she? I mean we haven’t talked since she came here to visit,’ I think to myself. “Yeah, he’s still quite the charmer. Actually, Adam was supposed to go to a movie with him tonight, but I have to fill in for him because he’s laying in bed sick. Heather! Oh my gosh! The movie! I gotta go. Jax should be here any minute now. Adam has been waiting to hear from you, and asks me every day if you had called me. Call me again sometime so we can catch up,” I tell her. We say our goodbyes and I close my phone and rush downstairs. 

As Mom and I enter the living room, Matt is sitting on the love seat reading, and Adam is still laying on the couch watching tv. “Ah…ahhhh….. Ah-chooooo,” he sneezes. “Bless you,” Mom, Matt, and I tell him. “Thank you,” he replies and continues watching his show. I sit down beside him and tell him that I hope that he feels better as I run my fingers through his hair. “Hey, come on, it’ll be fun. You can be the nurse, and Jax can be the orderly,” he says jokingly. “Ugh! You don’t what us to get sick do you?” I ask. Suddenly a beeping car horn interrupts our conversation. “Jax is here now, bye guys, I love you,” I say as I give Matt a goodbye hug, and rush out of the door. 

After standing in line for at least 30 minutes, Jax turns to me and says, “What do you say we shy out of this movie?” “Well…. What do you have in mind?” I ask. “Lets just go and relax at my place. I have tons of movies there to chose from. Besides, it doesn’t look like this line is going anywhere anytime soon,” he tells me. I give a little nod in agreement and we get into his car and head to his place. Upon entering his hotel room, male voices echo from the living room. “Paul, I have told you this before that this isn’t good enough, and now I’m gonna tell you again. Now you fix that, or you’re gonna have to find another place to work!” One of the men say. As we enter the living room, there’s four men sitting on the couch doing paperwork that I have never seen before. Jax sighs before calling one of them Dad. A tall, slim man with gray hair, and a well trimmed beard looks over at Jax with an angry expression on his face, and walks towards us. As he stands in front of us, Jax asks him when he got back in town. “I need to talk to you,” Jax’s father tells him and pulls him into another room. 

When they close the door behind them, that’s when the yelling competition starts. “I asked you to do one simple thing of vital importance to me!” Jax’s father yells. “Vital importance?” Jax replies questioningly.  “Yes! Is that too much to ask?” his father shouts. “I went to that bar  and I sat there for hours! You didn’t even call me! Where were you!?” I hear Jax yell at his father. “Did it ever occur to you that I might be tied up? The whole world Jackson, does not revolve around Jackson Heartwell!” His father shouts. “Oh, did it ever?” I hear Jax shout and exit the room. He then slings the door open, and storms over to the bar next to me, and starts pouring himself a drink. “You don’t drink do you?” I ask worriedly. “Only at family reunions,” he replies. “Come on! Don’t you’re driving me home!” I reply. He then slams his drink down onto the bar, rolls his eyes, and says, “Come on, lets get out of here.” I give a shaky little nod, and follow him outside. 

“You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to,” I tell him. “Good!” he snaps back at me as I follow him down the steps. “Do you wanna take a walk on the beach or something?” I ask worriedly. “Oh yeah, and check out the homeless people? That would be great!” he snaps at me again. “Jax, I don’t know what happened up there,” I begin but Jax quickly interrupts. “That’s right you don’t!” he shouts. “You didn’t let me finish,” I reply as I choke back the tears. “You’ll have to excuse me, I have a knack for interrupting things,” he yells again. “Jax…” I begin but he interrupts me again. “I’m real good at interrupting things, and I have had just about enough noise for one night!” he shouts. I then notice one of the hotel’s employee’s standing out front of the hotel. “Excuse me, can you get me a Taxi please?” I ask with tears streaming down my cheeks. “Forget the Taxi,” he shouts at the employee. “No! I want a Taxi,” I shout as I begin to storm off with Jax right on my heels. “No! Just come on! DAMN IT!” he yells. Turning to face him I shout, “Stop yelling at me!” Jax then picks up a nearby potted plant and shatters it on the ground, and I take off running with him right behind me, but he’s quick on his feet and grabs me, hugging me tightly as he says he’s sorry. 

“Just  let me go!” I demand. He whips me around to face him as he says, “Faith, I’m an idiot. Please don’t leave,” “You’re scaring me,” I tell him with tear filled eyes. “I’m sorry,” he says as he looks down at the ground, trying to hide the tears. “Jax, what happened?” I ask. “He just gets to me. He always gets to me. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do,” he explains as he embraces me and hugs me tightly as tears stream down his cheeks. “Shhh. It’s ok,” I soothe. He then lifts his head up and our eyes lock for a moment, and he kisses me gently as if to tell me that he needs me. “I have been dreaming of this moment ever since the other day when I walked in on him while he was in the shower. Only the way it happened was far more romantic,” I think to myself. The kiss then turns passionate and I’m lost for words. Suddenly from this very moment, I know that what I felt for Kevin wasn’t real. But this…. I have never been kissed like this, and it all feels so magical and right. Jax, being the gentleman that he is, and a man of keeping his word to my parents, stops himself before we get too carried away, and he drives me home. 

Once we pull into the driveway, he turns off his car, and walks me to the door before saying, “So, after he kicked me out, we didn’t talk for about a year. It’s better now, but it’s still no picnic.” Turning to him I reply, “I couldn’t imagine being cut off like that. I mean I tell my mom everything.” Jax then folds his arms and looks at me before asking, “Everything?” I smile slightly and reply, “Well….not everything.” “Faith, don’t tell Adam I lost my cool today. Ok?” Jax asks. “I won’t. I wouldn’t,” I reply as I caress his cheek and kiss him gently. Putting his arm around me, he says, “So, are you sorry we missed the movie?” “Oh yeah,” I reply sarcastically. He then smiles, and we share one more three minute kiss before I head inside and go to bed. 

The following day at school, I tell Shannon what had happened between Jax and I last night. “What!? Faith, you lucky little witch! He never really goes out with anyone. How did you get so lucky?” she asks. “Well.. lets just say that I understand him. I mean it’s not like we’re going steady or anything,” I reply. “Faith, you had a date, and he asked you out again. If you ask me, that’s dating,” she says. “Oh uh.. So what’s next? Do I get pinned or something?” I ask. “Yeah, preferably on the mattress,” she replies with a giggle. “Shannon!” I gasp. Shannon smiles before replying, “You know, it’s a good thing you’re coming over to study tonight. I can see we have alot of work to do.” Before I get the chance to ask what she means by that, the bell rings, signaling us that class is about to begin, and Shannon and I enter the classroom. 

An hour after health class, Adam bumps into Jax in the hallway. “Jax, how’s it going?” Adam asks. “I’m getting by,” Jax replies as he stops at his locker. “How’s the car?” he asks Adam. “Better, thanks. So, how was the movie?” Adam asks curiously. “We didn’t make the movie,” Jax replies. “Hi,” I tell Jax as I hug him and kiss him on the cheek. “Faith, hi,” he replies as he hugs me in return. With a curious look on his face, Adam asks, “Why didn’t you tell me that you didn’t go to the movie?” “What movie?” I ask jokingly. Jax whispers something in my ear, and I reply, “Ohhhh! That movie. Sorry, it’s no big deal is it?” I ask. “No, no it isn’t,”Adam replies. “I’ll see you later, Adam,” I tell him and continue to walk down the hallway with Jax. 

After school, Jax drops me off at home, and heads home himself. “Hi honey. How was school,” Mom asks. “Uh.. it was good. Mom, would you like some help with dinner?” I ask. “Sure, sweetheart. I can always use a helping hand,” she replies. ” I then tell her that I have a permission slip from my health teacher for her to sign, and that I can’t be in his class unless she signs it. “I’ll sign it after dinner honey, just remind me,” she tells me. Mom and I decide to make fresh baked tilapia with the fish Matt had caught on his day off, with green beans, mac and cheese, and baked potatoes on the side. The oven chimes, signaling the fish is done and I set the table. Mom then heads into the living room and informs Matt and Adam that dinner is done, and we all sit at the table together to enjoy the delicious meal Mom and I prepared. “So, Jason and Michelle went to this spa, they spent two days soaking in herbal mud, and ended up completely potatoed,” Mom informs us. “Potatoed? As in what? Baked, mashed, fried?” Matt says teasingly. “How about relaxed, as in ready to face the world in on Monday morning,” Mom says. “Oh, hey come on. You should do it Matt,” Adam says. “Definitely. I mean Adam’s working this weekend, and I have plans. You guys should just go,” I point out.

“What are your plans this weekend?” Matt asks. “I’m probably going out to a movie or something on Friday night,” I reply. “Who are you going with?” he asks. “Jax,” I reply. The room grows quiet for about five minutes until I break the silence. “Is there a problem?” I ask curiously. “I really don’t want you getting involved with him honey,” Matt says. “Well it’s a little too late for that Matt,” I reply. Matt’s smile turns more serious when he asks me what I mean. “What do you mean?” I shoot back. Now getting angry, Matt says, “I mean that I don’t want you dating him period.” Turning to Adam, I tell him that he can jump in at any time. “He has nothing to say about this!” Matt says. “Well I see. Exactly just when did you actually become my father? You’re just my stepdad, and technically you’re not even my stepdad yet. You’re still Mom’s fiance who just lives here. I don’t take orders from you! I know my father would approve of me dating him! I guess I’ll just make plans with Shannon then! But you will Not control who I can and can’t date! It won’t be long until I’m eighteen and then who will you control?” I shout. “Thanks for dinner Mom. It’s been real,” I tell her and head up to my room. 

Matt sighs and says, ” I have a right to my opinion.” “And I have a right to mine,” Mom says with a frown. “Which is?” Matt asks her. “I like Jax,” she replies and takes the empty plates from the table to the kitchen. Turning to Adam Matt says, “You wanna do us all a favor? Tell your friend to watch his step. “Matt, I can’t do that,” Adam replies. “Yes, you can. Unless you want me to,” Matt tells him.

Meanwhile upstairs, I curl up on my bed and Mom enters my room with my dinner plate. “Faith?” Mom says as she sets my plate down on the table by the door, and sits down beside me on my bed. “Didn’t you say you have something from school for me to sign?” she asks. “Oh, yeah. It’s right here, thanks for reminding me,” I tell her as I hand her the paper. “Is this course as loaded as it was when I was in school?” she asks. “I don’t know. We haven’t gotten up to the sex chapter yet,” I reply. “Well this book looks pretty thorough,” Mom says as she scrolls through the pages. “Yeah, well it doesn’t deal with the most important stuff,” I tell her. “Like what?” she asks. “Like how it feels in your heart when you really want to connect with someone,” I reply. Mom then moves a strand of hair from my neck before replying, “When it’s the right time and the right person, it feels wonderful.” Turning to her, I say, “And you don’t think Jax is the right person either?” “Oh Faith, there’s so many things that goes into a relationship. There’s mutual respect, commitment, and if that connection is meaningful it doesn’t have to be about sex,” she explains. I smile slightly before replying, “I hate to break this to you Mom, but it definitely has something to do with it.” Shannon pulls into the driveway and honks her horn signaling me that she’s here to pick me up. “Oh, that’s Shannon now. I’m going over to her house tonight to study,” I tell Mom and kiss her on the cheek and head downstairs where I bump into Adam. “Why didn’t you stick up for me?” I ask. “What was I supposed to say, that he’s a boy scout?” Adam asks. “Well, you could have said something,” I reply and head outside. 

As Shannon and I enter her house, her mother offers us some snacks and drinks, which we both accept and head upstairs to her room to study. Sitting on her bed as Shannon’s reading her book, all I can think about is the argument that happened back at home. “You know, I don’t get it. Why? Why does Matt suddenly want to act like my father after he said he wouldn’t try to replace him? It’s like they’re on this conspiracy to take away the most exciting, and best thing that’s happened to me since I moved here,” I tell her. “That’s why you’re keeping your date with Jax and sleeping at my house,” Shannon tells me. “This is going so fast,” I add. “And we’re just talking about it, just wait until you get to the real thing,” she says. “I guess I’m just more into the romance angle, like in the movies,” I explain. “That’s great for the movies, but you do have protection right?” she asks. My smile turns into a slight frown as I tell her no, and she tells me to open the drawer to her nightstand beside her bed. She then asks me to hand her a black box that’s in the drawer and I place it into her hands. “Basic rule number one, never rely on the guy memorize that,” she says as she hands me a couple of condoms. “You sound so clinical,” I reply. “Clinical is, what time should we schedule the procedure,” she tells me. “Shannon! That’s awful!” I reply shocked that she would say something like that. “Would you rather sit around thinking up names? How about Jax Jr, or Faithina?” she asks. “Alright, I’ll take them. This is not the part that I want to think about,” I reply. “Faith, if things go well, you won’t be thinking at all,” she points out. A slight smile spreads across my face, and all I can think about is, how I can’t wait to see Jax again.

The following day at school, Jax and I decide to cuddle up under a nearby oak tree to have lunch, as my brother and the rest of our friends chat away under one of the other trees nearby. Jax notices that I have a parfait in my lunch bag, and he tries to be sneaky and grab it right from under my nose. I grab my bag and squeal no, but then he tickles me mercilessly. Giggling in delight I mange to get out, “Alright, alright. I give! I’ll share it with you!” When he lets me up, he wraps his arms around me and kisses my cheek, and that’s when I notice Adam smiling, but also staring at us. When the bell rings to signal that lunch is over and the next class is about to start, Jax and I part ways to go to our classes. Jax bumps into Adam in the hallway. “Hey Jax, where are you going so fast?” Adam asks. “I have somewhere to be. Why, what’s up?” Jax replies. “Oh, I was hoping you could help me work on my car this weekend,” Adam tells him. “Look, I would like to, but my old man got back in town, and he’s got…. it’s a long story,” Jax explains. “Don’t you have time to tell me about it?” Adam asks. “No, not really,” Jax says. “Oh, but you do have time to make out with my sister, or is that just until next month, when you tell her that you don’t have time for her either?” Adam asks now annoyed. “What’s your point?” Jax asks. “My point is, you better really like her. She’s very romantic, dreamy, sweet, and she’s not going to move on that easily. Jax, she’s a virgin.” Adam tells him. “What kind of jerk do you think I am? Have a nice weekend,” Jax tells him as he walks away.

That evening, I’m supposed to meet Jax at the movie theater. Shannon and Blair come over to help me pick out something to wear for my date with Jax. After an hour of trying on many, many outfits, I spin around and ask the two girls what they think of my outfit, and they tell me that I look great. We then head downstairs where I run into Mom and Matt in the foyer. “Bye Mom, bye Matt,” I tell them as I hug and kiss them on their cheeks, and head outside with the two girls. They drop me off at the movie theater, where I wait for Jax, and pace back and forth until the last showing of the evening ends. After finally getting the hint that he isn’t going to show up, I pull out my cell phone, and call a Taxi to get a ride to Shannon’s house.

The following morning, after Shannon drives me home, I’m sitting in my room by the window looking outside with tears streaming down my cheeks, as Adam enters the room. “Faith, do you wanna talk?” he asks. I sigh before replying, “I’ve been talking to Shannon all night, and it didn’t get me anywhere.” He gives a little shrug and nods before saying, “Well, I’m open for the morning shift.” I then move to my bed and sit on the edge, and Adam follows and takes a seat next to me. “He didn’t show up Adam. I was ready to spend the night with him, and he didn’t show up. What a jerk huh?” I tell him. With a look of sympathy, Adam replies, “He sure can be.” “Not him, me. I thought I was special,” I cry out as I bury my face into the palm of my hands. ” Adam places his hand on my shoulder, and says, “You are.” “Well not to him obviously. I mean, finally I get the guts to call him, and this man says that he won’t speak to me,” I explain. Adam sighs and replies, “Faith, you can’t beat yourself up over someone like him.” I suddenly find myself annoyed that he would say something like that and reply, “Why would you say that!?” “I don’t know. I thought he was different, but he doesn’t let anyone in,” Adam says. As the tears start to flow again, I reply, “I don’t understand Adam. We were so there! Even yesterday out on the lawn, we were together, we were in sync. I was so happy. I don’t know what happened, but something happened.” Taking a deep breath Adam says, “I’m really sorry Faith.” “I really have to find out what I did wrong. I need to know what happened,” I tell him.

The weekend goes by quickly, and I’m so upset that I got sick this morning, sick enough that I end up staying home from school. Adam pops his head in to tell me that he’s leaving for school and kisses me on the cheek. “I hope you feel better soon Sis,” he says and exits the room. A few hours later, the lunch bell rings, signaling classes are resuming, and Adam finds Jax in the computer lab doing school work. Adam approaches him and says, “Been busy lately Jax?” “Well if it isn’t the master of tact and diplomacy,” Jax says. “What’s going on with you man? I know you moved. I went to your old house, and they said that you didn’t even leave a forwarding address.” Adam tells him. “It’s a long story,” Jax replies. “Would you rather tell it to Faith?” Adam asks. Jax slams his fist on the desk before replying, “Adam, don’t start that with me alright! I got the message, you don’t want me to hurt your sister.” Adam raises a brow and replies, “Then why is that exactly what you did!? Just to spite me?” “Look, it wasn’t because of you. You gotta believe me, something came up that’s all.” Jax says. “Jax, it’s one thing not to talk to me, I’m not gonna cry about it, but when you do it to her, she feels like she did something wrong,” Adam explains. “It wasn’t her! It had nothing to do with her!” Jax snaps. “Then why don’t you tell her that? She was so upset all weekend that she even stayed home from school today,” Adam tells him. Jax hangs his head down as if he’s feeling guilty, and silence spreads between the two for a few seconds. “Fine! It’s got nothing to do with her, it’s got nothing to do with me, meanwhile you’re not talking to neither of us. Makes alot of sense,” Adam says as he exits the room disappointed in him.

Later that afternoon, after Adam leaves for work, I’m sitting in the living room watching one of my favorite shows as the doorbell chimes. I turn down the tv, and answer the door to find Jax standing on the other side. I leave the door open for him to come in, and I return to my seat on the couch. Jax enters the living room and says, “I’m not very good at this, and I feel terrible.” Turning to him, I reply,” You look terrible.” “You look great,” he replies. “You must need glasses,” I tell him. “I’m sorry,” he says. “I know…. You’re an idiot. That’s not good enough this time,” I say. “I don’t know what to say,” he replies. “Oh you don’t? You are too much! You know, you don’t tell me where you were or what happened, then you expect me to forgive you? Why don’t you just leave?” I ask. “You think I’m proud of myself? well I’m not. I’ve just been trying to figure out what to say to you,” he says. “Then say it! Adam told me that you moved. You didn’t even…..” I begin, but Jax interrupts. “I didn’t even show up Friday night because I had to help my father pack. He needs to disappear and….” Jax begins but I interrupt him this time. “What do you mean? Where did he go?” I ask. “Out of the country for a little while. I really don’t know where. That way if I’m dragged into court, I don’t have anything to tell them. My dad found out that he’s going to be indited on some charges. Not murders or anything like that. It’s securities fraud and things like that,” he explains.

Jax then looks down at the floor, looks back at me, shakes his head, and heads toward the front door. “Jax!” I say and get up to follow him. Turning to me and placing his hands on my cheeks, he says, “I’ve been thinking about you the whole time. I just had to go do this, please don’t think that I didn’t care. The truth is, I do care.” “I just wish you would have called,” I tell him. “I just couldn’t,” he says. I pause for a moment before replying, “I called you.” “When? They….they didn’t tell me.” Jax asks confused. I sigh before taking a seat on the couch again and reply,” Now I feel terrible.” Jax gets down on his knees in front of me before replying, “I…I don’t want to make you feel terrible anymore.” “How do you want me to feel Jax? What do you want me to feel for you?” I ask him. He kisses me tenderly and says, “You feel so warm.” I then slide his jacket off as he continues kissing me. The kiss turns to heated passion as we lay on the couch making out for what seems like hours, that is until I hear a car pull up in the driveway. I quickly get up and peak through the curtains to see that it’s Matt. “Hurry, get your jacket on and follow me to the front door,” I instruct, and Jax grabs his jacket and throws it on as we rush to the door.

No sooner than we reach the door, Matt enters the house. “Hi Matt, you remember Jax?” I ask. “Jax, I’ll tell Adam you came by alright?” I tell him. “Yeah, alright. Nice seeing you again Mr. Whitmore,” Jax says as he heads to his car. “What kind of idiot do you take me for? Are you gonna pretend that he was just over here fixing cars?” Matt asks angrily. “Why are you so upset?” I ask. “You wanna learn about your pal there? His father’s exploits would make a good novel someday. Maybe he can write about it from prison.” he says as he hands me the newspaper. “Was he arrested?” I ask curiously. “Not yet, he skipped town. Great role model huh? Some example.” he explains. “Matt, Jax is nothing like his father. He’s just trying to get by like the rest of us,” I tell him. “You deserve better than that!” Matt says. “Like who? Someone straighter, younger, quieter?” I ask. “For a start,” he replies. “Matt, those nice boys maybe mild mannered on the outside, but mostly what they all think about is sex,” I try to explain. “Who said anything about sex? I’m talking about the person’s values. I’m talking about their character,” he says. “Are you really worried about my character? Why is it with Adam, you only wanted him to know about birth control, but my whole value system is on the line?” I ask furiously. “Faith, it’s different with girls, it just is! You need to know who you’re dealing with,” he tells me. “Then let me get to know him. That’s all I want to do,” I point out. “Is that all?” he asks. “What do you want me to say? That I’m gonna wait until I get married? You’re so worried and I haven’t even done anything yet,” I tell him. “I’m not worried, I just don’t know if I’m ready.. I mean if you’re ready to…” he begins but I interrupt him. “And if I’m ready first, then what? Should I lie and sneak around, or are you gonna trust that I know what I’m doing?” I ask, and give him his newspaper back, and head up to my room.

The following day at school, I told Shannon the whole conversation I had with Matt after Jax left. “I can’t believe you would actually say that to your father,” she says. “Neither can I, but it just kind of slipped out. And besides, he’s not my stepfather yet,” I tell her. “What did he say?” she asks with a smile. “Well, it’s not like he gave me his blessing, but at least Jax isn’t totally off limits anymore,” I explain. “Well that’s cool,” she replies. 

Jax finds Adam at his locker and says, “If you need help working on the car I can do it this weekend,” “That’s alright, I can handle it,” Adam replies. “Jax sighs and smiles slightly before saying, “Somehow I always end up apologizing to you Parker people. I’m sorry if it felt like I bailed out on you man.” “I guess it bothered me more than I thought. I’m sorry that I opened my big mouth about Faith,” Adam says. “Would you have felt better if I had asked you first, about seeing her I mean?” Jax asks. “Are you saying that you should have?” Adam asks with a puzzled look upon his face. “You tell me, not that I would have done anything different,” Jax says. Adam smiles, and gives him a little nod before telling Jax that it’s alright.

Later that evening after dinner, the doorbell chimes, and I hear Mom answer it. “Oh hello Jax. Come on in,” she tells him. A smile spreads across Jax’s face as he walks over the threshold and into the foyer. Mom turns to him and says, “I’ll go up and see if Faith’s ready.” Jax gives a little nod as he waits by the stairs for me to come down. “Dear, Jax is here,” Mom tells Matt as she heads upstairs. 

Matt enters the foyer and says, “How are you holding up?” “I’m ok. I just don’t talk to the press much. Mr. Whitmore, I’ve never been comfortable being known as Ben Heartwell’s son. Particularly since I hardly know the man,” Jax explains. “It’s a shame that it has to be that way,” Matt says apologetically. “Adam and Faith are very lucky to have parents like you,” Jax says. 

As I come downstairs and enter the foyer, Matt and Jax turn towards me. “Goodnight Matt,” I say as I kiss him on the cheek. Matt smiles and replies, “You take care now.” “I will,” I reply. I smile widely at the sight of Jax waiting to take me on our date. Jax opens the door for me, and we both say goodnight to Mom and Matt once more and we get into Jax’s car.

Chapter – 7

The weeks have flown by so fast as Christmas is quickly approaching us. I really must say the new Star Wars was AMAZING! Dinner was great too, but the movie was my favorite part! I’m really glad they kept all of the original characters in it, but I don’t want to say too much as some of you may not have seen it yet! Matt and my mother have gotten very serious in their relationship, and I really think he’s gonna pop the big question soon! Adam and I have really grown to like him, and we really want him to be a part of our family, but of course that’s for Matt and our mother to decide. After Dinner and the movie, Matt came home with us and helped us decorate our house for Christmas. Adam and I decorated the tree and the inside of the house, while Mom and Matt decorated the outside and hung the lights up on the house. I really must say I haven’t seen Mom so happy in a long time. After everything has been decorated, Mom made us all her famous hot cocoa, and we all sit at the table just chatting away about the day, and how far we have all came since we moved to Newcrest.

“How’s your shopping with Shannon been coming along?” Mom asks me. “It’s been going great! I have almost all of my Christmas shopping done. I only have Shannon and Blaire left to buy gifts for, which I can get tomorrow while they’re off doing their own thing,” I reply as I sip my hot cocoa. “That’s great honey. I have mine all done, and I can’t wait to see the expression on your faces when you all open your gifts,” she tells us with a smile. “I especially can’t wait until you open yours darling. I think you’re really gonna love it,” Matt tells her. “What is it?” Mom asks him as she nudges his arm. With a smirk, Matt replies, “Ah, ah, ah. Now if I were to tell you it wouldn’t be a surprise now would it?” “Oh, I guess not. You’re such a tease!” Mom replies. “Oh! Before I forget, what do you say Matt joins us for Christmas?” Mom asks Adam and I. “Mom, do you really need to ask that? You know we really like him and consider him a part of the family. Of course we would love him to be here with us for Christmas.” I tell her. Her eyes light up with cheer as she turns to Matt and tells him that Christmas dinner will be at six O’clock. He smiles in return and tells her that he will be here and kisses her tenderly. Adam and I glance at one another with a smile, and decide that we think it’s best if we leave them alone for a while and head up to our rooms.

The following day, Camryn gets a call from her mother, Vicki who tells her that she’s going to be paying us a visit for Christmas. “That would be great Mom! I really have someone that I would love for you to meet, and I can’t wait for you to meet him!” Camryn tells her excitedly. “Is there a new man in your life that you have failed to tell your own mother about?” Vicki asks curiously. “Yes, well we have been dating for quite some time, and the kids just love him, and I’m sure you will love him too. I didn’t tell anyone until our relationship got serious. He’s so sweet, kind, caring, and puts us above his own needs,” Camryn says. “So when do your father and I get to meet this mystery man of yours?” Vicki asks. “Well actually, you will get to meet him here on Christmas Day,” Camryn replies. “Well, I can’t wait to meet the guy who stole my daughter’s heart. We’ll see you on Christmas Day sweetheart. I can’t wait to see you and those grand babies of mine!” Vicki tells her. “I can’t wait either Mom! Well I still have so much to do here, and I really need to get to work. I love you and I can’t wait to see you all!” Camryn tells her. They say their goodbyes, and Camryn gently closes her phone and heads off to work.

Two weeks later……

Christmas is finally here, and I luckily finished my shopping last night.  The clock which sits on the mantle of the fireplace chimes 5:45pm, and the doorbell chimes a joyful tune. “I got it,” I call out as I open the door to find Matt on the other side. “Matt, hello. Won’t you come in?” I ask him. He then steps inside and I close the door behind him. “Merry Christmas,” I tell him as I give him a friendly hug. “Merry Christmas my dear,” he replies. “Where’s your mother?” he whispers. “She’s in the kitchen tending to dinner,” I whisper in return. “Why are we whispering?” I ask. “I have her Christmas present, but if she wants it, she will have to find it,” he whispers as he holds out a small box wrapped in Christmas paper. “For something that small, I have just the right hiding place,” I tell him and lead him to the Christmas tree. “You can hide it in the branches, she’ll never think to look for it there,” I tell him with a smile. “That’s a great idea! Now why didn’t I think of that?” he chuckles. He places the small box in the thick branches of the tree as Adam enters the room. “Hey guys, what’s going on?” he asks. “Just hiding your mothers Christmas gift. I really hope she likes it,” Matt tells him. “Are you kidding? Mom loves you, and I’m sure she’ll love anything you got for her,” Adam replies. “Honey was that Matt at the door,?” Mom calls out. “Yes Mom. Adam and I are sitting in the living room with him,” I reply. Mom then says that the turkey is done and that I need to put the last pie into the oven, and I head into the kitchen to bake the remanding pie sitting on the counter.

Twenty minutes later, as I pull the apple pie out of the oven, the doorbell chimes again. “I got it! I know you all are busy in the kitchen,” Adam yells. “It’s probably your Grandma Vicki. Just show them into the living room honey,” Mom yells back to Adam. He turns the door knob and pulls the door open. Only to his surprise it isn’t our Grandma Vicki who is on the opposite side of the door, but our Grandma Emily is standing there smiling With Grandpa Christian, Aunt Allison, Uncle Nick, Uncle Kevin, Aunt Carrie, and Aunt Morgan behind her. Adam stands frozen in his place unsure of what to say or do. “Well aren’t you going to invite us in?” Emily asks. “Uh…. Yeah, sorry. Come on in. Please take a seat in the living room. I’ll let Mom know that you’re here,” he tells them. “Sure thing Kiddo,” Grandpa Christian replies. Adam rushes into the kitchen, nearly knocking me and the pies I have in my hands onto the floor. “Mph! Adam! Watch what the hell you’re doing!” I scold. Gritting his teeth he says, “Sorry Sis!” “Mom do we have other guests you didn’t tell us about?” he asks. “No, just your Grandma Vicki, Grandpa Harrison, Uncle Steven, and Aunt Brianna. Why do you ask?” Mom asks curiously. “Well ummm……. Grandma Emily and the rest of the family are here,” Adam explains. “Ugh! I didn’t plan for this! The last time we spoke was after your father passed away, I’m sure they aren’t here on the best of terms. Faith, can you finish setting the table? Keep your brother occupied too, the two of you don’t need to be in this mess,” Mom whispers. I give a little nod and tell her that it’s no problem, and she heads into the living room.

Upon entering the living room, Camryn finds Mr. and Mrs. Parker standing by the mantle of the fire place, and the others had made themselves at home on the couch. Camryn puts on a happy face as she approaches them and says, “Mr. and Mrs. Parker, how nice to see you! What brings you all the way to Newcrest?” “Why, Camryn Parker, is that you? You look stunning!” Emily replies. “Thank you Mrs. Parker, but really what brings you here?” Camryn asks curiously. “Now Camryn, is that anyway to speak to your family? You know very well that I came here to see my grandchildren! Those two children in there are the only family of Jake’s. Just where is your family Camryn? You have a father who cheats on your mother, gets your stepmother pregnant, and walks out on your mother. He didn’t care about how it would make you feel, or how heartbroken Vicki was when she found out not only was your father married, but she was pregnant too. Like I said, just where is your family?” Emily yells. “My family? My family is here is Newcrest! I don’t know what you get out of this, but you’re not the person Jake described to me all of those years! I was too young to remember what happened between my mother, father, and stepmother, but I haven’t seen my biological mother since I was really young. As far as I’m concerned, Vicki is my mother and has always treated me like one! I suggest that you just leave, my mother and father should be here soon, and I’m sure they won’t like the way you’re talking to me right now! Boy was Jake ever wrong about you! He used to tell me how loving and kind his mother was. Hell you even had me fooled! Just because I was going through depression due to my husband passing away, you wanted to take the kids from me. Well I have news for you old hag! MY kids will be staying right here with me, End of story!” Camryn shouts. “Why I never! I have been nothing but good to you and this is the thanks I get! I told Jake to stay away from you, and that you were no good! After all the crap your daddy put my dear friend Vicki through, I knew you were no good! But Jake just wouldn’t listen to me, he just had to be with you. Now he’s dead and you’re off living the good life with HIS money! I just won’t allow that!” Emily yells angrily. “Emily…. darling I think that’s enough. Lets go huh?” Christian tells her calmly. “Excuse me! Just who are you to tell me when it’s enough and when we should go!” Emily yells at him. 

As the yelling and screaming match in the living room continues, the doorbell chimes again, and I find Grandma Vicki, Grandpa Harrison, and my aunt Brianna and uncle Steven on the opposite side of the door this time. “Grandma! Grandpa!” I shout hugging them tightly. “Mom is in the living room with the rest of the guests,” I tell her. Clearly overhearing everything that is being said she says, “I think I can find my way to the living room. Just keep your brother occupied.” Aunt Brianna and Uncle Steven follow me back into the kitchen, as Grandma and Grandpa find their way into the living room. Emily smiles and says, “Why Vicki, isn’t this a nice surprise.” Turning to Harrison, she clears her throat and says a snobby hello to Him. “Just what brings you to my daughter’s home?” Vicki asks Emily. Emily points her nose in the air snobbishly and says, “These are my grandchildren too, and I can see them whenever I would like. After all, they are the only children Jake had. If Jake would have listened to me years ago, and stayed away from that little tramp daughter of yours, none of this would be happening right now, and my dear Jake would still be alive today! But he wouldn’t listen. All he talked about was joining the military to make Camryn and his children proud by doing so.” Vicki clenches her fists as she yells, “How DARE YOU!! Camryn has done nothing wrong and you just think you can come into her home and start a war? She loved Jake just as much as you did. All you want to do is drive her back into the deep end so you can take her kids. Well I have news for you lady, those kids will remain in her custody as long as I have anything to say about it! You think that just because you have money that you can flash it all over town, and do or say whatever you want to anyone who steps on your shoes. We used to be best friends, but you have changed and have destroyed that! I no longer want anything to do with you! I’m giving you this last warning, you are Not the only family here who has money. Don’t make me hire a lawyer and sue you for harassment! Just leave Camryn and her family alone and things won’t get ugly! I’m gonna tell you something right now! This is my daughter, and Only I can say something about her if I want, but no one else better say one word about her or any of my children!”

Matt enters the living room after exiting the restroom and walks right into the lion’s den. “Is everything alright darling? I couldn’t help but to hear all of the yelling,” he asks Camryn sweetly. “Oh and just who is this? Surely no one can even compare to the type of gentleman my son was,” Emily snaps. Camryn gives Matt a sympathy look and says, “Mrs. Parker, Mother, this is Matt Whitmore….my boyfriend.” Vicki smiles and says, “Mathew, I remember when you and Jake were little, and the two of you would come over, and hang out with Camryn and Steven. It’s so nice to see you again.” With a grim look Emily says, “Mathew!? You were Jake’s best friend, how DARE YOU be with his wife! Do you really think Jake would want his best friend rolling in the hay with his wife! You have got ALOT of nerve!” Camryn’s smile then turns into a frown, and angrily says, “Get out! Mrs. Parker, you don’t have any respect for me or my family. Get out of my house NOW! You are no longer welcome here!” Emily thrusts her nose into the air and replies, “Well I never! Christian, gather the girls, Kevin, and Nicolas together, I think it’s time that we leave! I know when we’re not welcome!” Christian apologizes to the others and Emily storms outside as Camryn shows Christian into the kitchen.

Upon entering the kitchen, Christian turns to Camryn and says, “I’m sorry for the way Emily is acting. I was really hoping to have a nice Christmas with the whole family here, since we haven’t done so since Jake’s death. None of what she had said is true you know. Jake would want you to be happy and to move on. You have a nice home here, and two beautiful kids, move on with your life and be happy. If Mathew is who makes you happy, then be with him. Between you and me, Mathew has always been one of my favorites out of all the friends Jake had, and you have always been like a daughter to me. Jake loved you and you made him very happy. Don’t let anyone else tell you different, or rain on your parade you hear?” “Thank you Mr. Parker. You have always treated me with kindness, and like a part of your family, and for that I am truly grateful,” Camryn replies as she hugs him tightly. “I’m sorry we spoiled your Christmas, but with Emily being so angry, I think it’s best for us to go before she ends up throwing a fit again,” he tells Camryn. She gives a nod, and he tells his remaining family members who are also in the kitchen that it’s time for them to leave, and they all head outside to get into the car with Emily.

Ten minutes later, Mom calls Matt and the rest of the family to join us in the dining room for Christmas dinner, and we all take our seats at the table. “Matt, would you like to say grace?” Mom asks him. Matt smiles before replying, “I would love to.” “Father, we thank you for the many ways you have blessed this day. We are thankful for each of those who are gathered around this table. We ask you to bless us and our food, and to also bless those we love who aren’t with us today. I pray for those who don’t have enough to eat. We remember the stable in which you were born in, and pray for those who don’t have a place to live. We bless you and give you thanks to your spirit who brings our hearts to life on Christmas day forever. Amen.” Grandpa Harrison then carves the turkey, and we all chat and enjoy our delicious meal. 

After we have all eaten dinner, Mom tells everyone to head into the living room to open our presents. Of course she didn’t have to tell Adam and I twice, because as soon as that sentence escapes her lips, Adam and I rush off into the living room, and take our seats on a nearby sofa. “Would you do the honor of handing out presents? Think of it as being Santa’s helper, Mom asks Matt. “I would be happy to,” he replies and seals the deal in a kiss. Matt pulls up a chair and sits beside the tree, and begins to separate the presents by name, and we open our gifts as he hands them to us. Moments later, sweaters and dresses are being admired, necklaces envied over, and chocolates devoured. “We really didn’t know what to get the two of you since you two basically have everything, but we hope you like your gifts. Adam and I smile at the two and tell them we love their presents and thank them. “Well looks like all of the gifts have been handed out. There’s a garbage bag over in that chair Adam, won’t you pick up the paper and throw it in there for me please,” Mom asks him. “Wait a second. Not all of the presents have been opened,” Matt smiles. “Are you sure you’re feeling alright? Clearly there aren’t anymore gifts under the tree,” Mom tells him. With a smirk Matt says, “Oh but there is, but if you want your present, you will simply have to find it as it’s hidden somewhere right in this very room.” “Matt you dirty dog! You didn’t have to get me anything. Just having you and my family here is the best gift I can ever receive.” Mom tells him.

Twenty minutes pass by and Mom still can’t find her gift. “Babe, would you like a hint?” Matt asks Mom. “That would be quite helpful,” she replies. “Well look around or maybe even in the tree, ” he tells her. Finally after five minutes of searching around the tree, Mom finds the small gift hidden in the thick branches of the tree. Her eyes lock on his and she begins to tear up as she thinks she knows what the small gift contains. “Well, aren’t you going to open it?” Matt asks her. She gives a small nod, and shakily removes the paper which contains a small black box. As she opens it, she freezes in her spot. As her hands start to tremble, tears pore from her eyes, for the small black box contains a solid gold engagement ring, with a sparkling twenty kt diamond in the middle. Her eyes lock on his once more, as he gets up from his seat and takes the ring from the box. He then takes a knee, and says, “Dear sweet Camryn, I have loved you for a very long time, and nothing will ever change the way I feel about you. I love everything about you, and I even consider Adam and Faith as my own, and I love them just as much. You are my world, my everything. Will you marry me?” Shocked at what she had just heard, she smiles widely and says, “Yes! Yes! I will marry you!” Matt then places the ring upon Camryn’s finger and scoops her up in his arms and looks deep into her eyes. “I love you,” he whispers to her. “I love you too! This truly is the best Christmas present you could have given me,” she whispers back. Adam and I beam at the fact we now have a wedding to plan for. Grandpa Harrison, Grandma Vicki, and the others all get up from their seats and hug them both tightly. “Welcome to the family son. Whatever you do, don’t hurt her,” Harrison tells Matt. He smiles widely in return and replies, “No need to worry about that Sir. I love your daughter with all of my heart, and I would never hurt her.” A few hours later, Grandma Vicki and the rest of the family head home, and the room grows a little steamy as Mom and Matt share a passionate kiss. Adam and I glance at one another, and I nod my head towards the stairs to signal Adam to give them a little privacy.

The following day, Adam’s outside working on his car as I return home from shopping with Shannon. As Adam slides out from the hood of his car, he begins to wipe off the grease from his hands and arms. “Where is winter already?” I ask as I lean against his car. “Ah, who needs winter here?” he replies. “Me. I need a season I can sulk and be depressed in,” I tell him. “Don’t tell me, you’re babysitting tonight, and every movie store was out of Dirty Dancing,” he says jokingly. “Very funny! Do you know that I had to go to three different movie stores just to find it?” I ask. “You must have it memorized by now,” he says. “Well, whatever gets you through the night. Isn’t that what you always say?” I reply. Just then someone rolls out from under the car, and I whip my head around to see Jax who is looking at me. His eyes wonder from my feet to my face, as he says, “That’s what I always say.” I smile slightly before saying, “Hi. I didn’t see you.” As he looks me up and down he says, “I saw you.” Mom then interrupts to tell me that I have a phone call. Turning my attention back to Jax I say, “You’ll have to excuse me. It’s probably a very important phone call.” Jax watches me as I head inside to get the phone from Mom. Adam must have noticed him watching me because he playfully throws his greasy towel in Jax’s face.

Once I grab the phone, Matt heads outside and approaches Adam and Jax. “Hey Matt, why don’t you check out what we’ve done to the car?” Adam asks him as he heads inside to get cleaned up. Matt gives a little nod as he turns to Jax. “So where did you learn to work on cars?” “By working on cars, same as Adam,” Jax replies. “Adam tells me that you have a Porsche,” Matt says. Jax gives a little nod before replying, “Yeah, now that is a happening car.” “You uh, bought it with your paper route earnings?” Matt asks curiously. Jax smiles and says, “Yeah, something like that. Say Mr. Heartwell, would it be alright if I cleaned up a little bit and took a shower?” “I’m sure Mrs. Parker won’t mind. The bathroom is upstairs, the third door on your right.” Matt replies and Jax thanks him before heading into the house.

Ten minutes later, as I enter my room, I can’t help but notice the shower running with the door wide open. Walking towards the bathroom door I yell, “Adam, can’t you ever shut the door?” “It’s hot enough in here already,” I continue to yell as I enter the bathroom. Jax the peaks his head outside of the shower curtain and says that he’s sorry. “Umm….So uh….it’s ok.” I begin to say. I smile and hurriedly walk back into my room and stand in front of the dresser mirror and try to do something with my hair before continuing, “You uh, keep popping up on me today.” The shower then turns off and Jax wraps himself up in a towel before replying, “So you’re into videos huh?” “Yeah, like movies,” I tell him. “Have you ever seen Space Balls?” he asks. After pondering for a moment I reply, “I thinks so. On TV.” “It’s almost better on the big screen. Too bad you’re babysitting tonight or you could see what I mean,” he says as he enters my room with only his shirt off. “Well, actually, my plans have changed as the little girl I was supposed to babysit got chickenpox,” I tell him. “Would you like to come along with Adam and I? We’re going to see the new Hunger Games,” he asks. I tell him that I would, and he gives me a nod before heading back into the bathroom to finish getting ready.

Later that evening,  after many coke and popcorn refills, Jax drops Adam and I off at home and heads home himself. Upon entering the house, Adam and I chat away about the movie we had just seen. “I’m glad you came, it wouldn’t have been the same without you,” Adam tells me. “Yeah, it was a lot of fun,” I reply. “So much fun that you dumped your container of popcorn all over Jax. NOT just once, but TWICE,” Adam points out. “Well if they wouldn’t have it so loud in there, I wouldn’t have jumped when the explosions happened!” I say now getting frustrated. Adam chuckles before replying, “Calm down sis! I was only joking, and Jax didn’t seem like he was upset about it. We’re going to see another movie tomorrow if you would like to join?” he tells me. “Oh, I don’t know. I’ve had way too much soda and popcorn tonight, I don’t wanna get fat,” I tell him. “Well save it for another day,” he says. I give a little nod and tell him that another day sounds perfect, and that I’m heading upstairs to take a nice bubble bath and head to bed.

Chapter – 6

Only a few months have passed and things couldn’t be better. Mom introduced Adam and I to her new boyfriend Matt, who apparently she has been dating for months now. She just didn’t tell us about him because she didn’t want us to think he was trying to replace our father, and she didn’t want us to blame ourselves if something went wrong between them. She said that things have gotten serious in their relationship, and that she feels it’s time that we get to know him. I know he can’t replace our father, but he does deserve a fair chance doesn’t he?

That evening after Matt heads home, and Mom pulls Adam and I off to the side and asks us if we think she should invite Matt over for Thanksgiving dinner, which of course we both agree to. Mom beams as she says, “You two are the best! I couldn’t ask for better children than you two, and I love you both so much. I’ll call him to let him know. Oh! Faith, have you laid the turkey out for dinner tomorrow?” I give her a nod and tell her that I have even started baking the pies and making deviled eggs, macaroni salad, and the cranberry sauce. She smiles widely before replying, “You really are too much! Thank you for starting all of that for me. I know I haven’t been around much due to work, but I really appreciate everything you do around here.” Adam smiles and says, “I have some good news as well. I start work at Mel’s Diner right in town. It’s a small little 1950’s place and it pays minimum wage plus tips.” “Oh that’s great news Adam! You’re saving that money for college right?” Mom asks. Adam nods, and says some of it is being saved for college, but most of it is going to go towards fixing up his car. Mom tells him that it’s good idea and to keep up the good work, as I head back into the kitchen to finish making the food I had started to prepare.

The following day is hectic from the time we all get up in the morning. Granted most of the cooking and baking had been done the night before, but there is still so much that needs to be done. The doorbell rings a cheerful chime, and Adam opens the door to find Matt holding flowers for Mom. “She’s in the kitchen. Come on in,” Adam tells him. Matt then follows Adam into the kitchen where he wraps his arms around Mom before kissing her. Mom’s cheeks turn a radiant pink as she blushes, “Why don’t you sit with Adam in the living room while Faith and I finish dinner?” “That’s a grand idea. The football game is on, and I never miss it on turkey day.” he replies. “Who’s playing?” Mom asks. “The Patriots vs. The Dallas Cowboys. You know the Pats are gonna slaughter them,” Matt chuckles and kisses Mom on the cheek before following Adam into the living room to watch the big game. “So Mom, have you and Matt discussed future plans yet? You know, as in the big ‘M’?” I ask. Mom smiles, “No honey, I think it’s a little too soon for that. What I had with your father was special, and we knew right from the start that we were meant for each other. He will always hold a piece of my heart.” I can’t help but to get the feeling that I have met Matt somewhere before. Perhaps from my childhood? He just has that familiar look.

An hour later, the oven chimes, signaling the turkey is ready to come out. Mom puts on her oven mitts and grabs the turkey out, as I gather all of the  delicious sides and place them onto the table. “Faith, can you set the table while I get Matt and your brother to join us?” Mom asks unknowingly that I had already started, and I nod and tell her that I will. As Mom enters the living room, she smiles widely as Adam and Matt are in deep conversation about how he knew our father, and that he had served with him in the Military. “I just can’t believe how much the two of you have grown. The last time I saw you and your sister, you were in grade school. You’re father was my best friend all through high school and was a very respected man in the Military.” he tells Adam. Adam beams at the thought of Matt being Dad’s best friend and fighting beside him during the war in Iraq. “Dinner is ready, that is if you two are ready to eat,” Mom tells them with a smile. “It smells delicious darling, and I’m famished.” Matt replies. Adam pats his stomach before saying, “You know I’m always hungry Mom, and it does smell so very good.” The two follow Mom into the kitchen. We all sit at the table together as Mom says grace. As we’re all passing the delicious food around the table to fill our plates, the doorbell chimes once again. Mom then excuses herself from the table and gets up to see who it could possibly be.

She opens the door to find Jax and Shannon on the other side. “I hope we’re aren’t intruding. Is the invitation still open? My mother went to visit my Aunt in South Carolina, and won’t be home as she got stranded at the airport due to the heavy snow, and Jax’s father is out on a business trip leaving Jax at home alone.” Shannon explains. “Of course! The two of you are like family and are always welcome here any time,” Mom replies and shows them into the dining room. “Please take a seat and help yourselves. Matt this is Adam’s friend Jax, and Faith’s friend Shannon.” Mom tells Matt. He then shakes their hands and tells them that it’s nice to meet them. “So Matt tells me he was Dad’s best friend and served with him in the Military.” Adam tells us.

“That’s where I have seen him before. I haven’t seen him since my brother and I were very young. He was Dad’s best friend in high school, but if he was Dad’s best friend, what is he doing with our mother and how did he find us? I guess as long as Mom is happy, what difference does it make? After all we have been through she does deserve to be happy,” I think to myself.  “That’s right Adam, he was your fathers best friend, and fought with him in Iraq. I just didn’t know he had moved out here. You see when you’re father was killed, Matt was wounded when he tried to get to your father when he noticed was shot. You and Faith probably don’t really remember him since you were very young the last time he was around,” Mom says. “I’m sure I can speak for both of us when I say that as long as you’re happy, we’re happy for you. After all Mom, you deserve to be happy too.” I tell her.

After dinner, Shannon and I clean the kitchen and put away the food that’s left over. As I’m wiping down the counter, Shannon turns to me and says, “So Matt is kind of cute, I mean for an older guy. Do you think he’s the right one for your mom?” I pause for a moment before replying, “I think so. I mean as long as he treats her right, and does what a man is supposed to do to support his family, then yes I do think he’s the right one for her. Besides, Adam seems to really like him and looks up to him. I think he can use a father figure to look up to ya know.” Shannon gives a little nod, “Yeah. I think Adam can use that too. I mean I don’t know much about fathers considering mine took off when I was five. All I ever get from him is simple Birthday and Christmas card telling me how sorry he is that he couldn’t make it home.”

I frown slightly at the thought of Shannon’s father not being around much, “I’m sorry, I didn’t know…. about your father I mean.” I tell her. Shannon sighs and says, “It’s alright. I have gotten used to it over the years. My parents can never get along when they’re in the same room. Everything turns into a huge fight, and I can’t blame him for staying away from her.” I can tell by the look on Shannon’s face that she can indeed use a good pick me upper, and I know just the thing to cheer her up! “Shannon, I know today is Thanksgiving and all, but at 6pm Black Friday sales start. What do you say we go shopping?” I ask her. Shannon beams as she replies, “You know for a change I haven’t even thought about that! Shopping sounds great, but would your Mom mind if we went out? I mean she did invite Matt here for you and Adam to get to know him.” “Ugh! Yeah I kind of forgot about that. I’m sure she wouldn’t mind if we went out when he goes home,” I reply.

As Shannon and I get the kitchen finished, Mom pokes her head in and suggests that we join them in the living room for a card game. “Matt will be going home afterwards, but I thought it would be a great way to spend some time with him,” Mom tells us. Shannon and I nod in agreement and head into the living room to join them. I take a seat next to Jax and Shannon takes a seat next to Adam. “So do all of you know how to play Rummy 500, or would you like me to explain the rules?” Matt asks us. All of us agree that we know the rules and are ready to play. Matt shuffles the cards and passes out six cards to each of us, and then places the rest of the deck face down in the middle of the table with one card facing up beside it. An hour passes and of course Mom is the first one to go out, with Adam right behind her. “I just know that it won’t be long until I’m out of the game as well. Oh well, at least I have Jax right next to me to keep me entertained. Then again who am I kidding, he probably doesn’t even know that I exist,” I think to myself.

Two hours fly by as the card game comes to an end leaving Shannon as the winner. “You got lucky,” Jax snickers at Shannon. “You wish! You’re just mad cause I won!” she tells him jokingly. Matt sits next to Mom on the love seat and snuggles with her, “You have really good kids, and I’m glad I’m able to get to know them. We should do this a little more often. How would you feel about seeing the new Star Wars movie and bring them along?” Mom beams as she replies, “Really? I would really love that!” “I thought you might. How about tomorrow evening? Say after dinner at Black Diamond?” he asks. “That sounds great! Adam, Faith what do you think?” Mom asks us. We both tell her that sounds like alot of fun and that we would really love to go. “Well then it’s settled. Black Diamond for dinner, and see the movie afterwards. I really don’t want this night to end, but I really need to get home as it’s getting late. I’ll pick you and the kids up at six O’clock,” Matt replies as Mom walks him to the door.

“I should be going too,” Jax tells us. “You know Jax, you and Adam could come Christmas shopping with us,” I tell him. With a smirk, Jax replies, “Thanks, but no thanks. Shopping on Black Friday isn’t my thing. Are you sure you girls know what you’re in for? With all of the other customers pushing you out of the way, knocking you down, and snatching things right out of your hands?” Shannon lets out a giggle before replying, “This isn’t the first time I have been shopping on Black Friday, and I’m sure it won’t be the last, so I’m well aware of how horrible other shoppers can be. But I can assure you that it’s not as bad as others make it out to be. We’ll be fine.” “Mmhmm” Adam murmurs jokingly. Just then I hear Mom tell Matt goodnight and shuts the door behind him.

Shannon follows me into the foyer where we find Mom who is about to head into the living room. “Hey Mom, I just thought I would let you know that I’m gonna do a little shopping with Shannon, and we’ll be back in a couple of hours” I tell her. “Where are you going to go shopping?” Mom asks us. “We’re just gonna head on up to a few boutiques in town and get some Christmas shopping done. Don’t worry Mrs. Parker, I’ll have her back in two hours,” Shannon tells her. With a smile, Mom tells us to have fun and if for any reason we’re gonna be late to call her. We give her a little nod, and I grab my jacket and purse as we head out.As we arrive at the Square Mall in town, I can’t help but notice how cute all of the little boutiques look as they’re decorated for Christmas. “If we would have left earlier, we would have seen the Christmas Tree lighting. My parents and I used to come here every year for it. That is until they split up. Ever since I got my drivers license, I haven’t missed it. I have so many memories here, that it just reminds me that there are still good things in this world, and I can’t help but get a warm feeling every time I come here this time of the year.” She tells me. I tell her again how sorry I am about her parents splitting up, and she tells me not to worry about it. After we park the car and walk towards the entrance, there are crowds of people everywhere. I don’t even think there is anywhere to even walk. Two middle aged women are fighting over some doll that happens to be the last one on the shelf, and two other women that can’t be much older than us, are fighting over who knows what. “What do you say we just come back another day, this place is just a mad house?” I ask her. She nods in return, and drops me off at home where Adam is still in the living room watching a movie. “What happened to being gone for a couple of hours?” He smiles. “Oh shut up Adam. That place was a mad house, and I’m sure you wouldn’t have stayed there either.” I tell him. “Ha! I wouldn’t go shopping on Black Friday even if my life depended on it!” he snickers. “Well since you’re home early do you wanna watch this movie with me? I had just started it.” He asks. “What movie?” I ask him. “Reindeer Games,” he replies. “One of my faves! You know I can’t resist that movie!” I reply.  

Chapter – 5

Friday evening has finally arrived, Adam enters my room and plops down on my bed, and starts telling me about an argument that he and Heather had just had on the phone. As I’m putting my makeup on and getting ready for my date with Kevin, Adam asks if I’m even listening and I tell him that I am. “Where are you going?” he asks. I smile and reply, “I have a date tonight.” With who?” he asks. “Kevin,” I reply. “Just how old is this guy?” he asks. “Old enough to fend for himself,” I reply. “You mean like in college?” he asks. I smile and reply, “Something like that. If you tell Mom, I’ll kill you!”He grins as I take a seat on the bed next to him and he asks if it’s serious, and I tell him that I don’t know but I think it is. “I mean I like him so much that it’s kind of scary. In my mind it’s like I’m fixated on him. Sometimes I think I’m in love, but I know that’s not possible because we haven’t been together that long.” I continue to tell him. “Well who is he? Adam asks. “Give me a little time on this one okay? I promise I’ll tell you soon.” I tell him. “I hate secrets. Just promise me that you’ll be careful,” he tells me as he kisses me on the cheek. I tell him that I promise and he exits the room. Within a half hour later, Shannon picks me up and gives me a ride to the house where Kevin had dropped me off the night before. She then gives me a goodbye hug and tells me to be careful. “I will, and I seriously don’t think I have anything to worry about as he’s a very sweet guy.” I tell her and get out of the car to wait for Kevin. She then gives me a smile a waves at me as she drives off . Ten minutes go by as Kevin finally arrives to pick me up. Tonight is a special night, as I get to meet his friends from the law firm he works at. He pulls into the parking lot and opens the door for me to get out, and takes my hand into his as we enter the Italian restaurant. As we enter through the revolving glass doors, one of the servers greets us and says, “Hello, is there anything I can get you?”  “Yes, I have some friends we’re supposed to meet with from the Johnson and Langly firm,” Kevin tells him. “Ah. Yes, right this way, The server says. We then follow her passed the dessert station, and as we round the corner, she shows us to our seat in a corner booth where all of Kevin’s friends have been waiting.They greet us as we take our seats, and pass us a couple of menus. Kevin smiles as he introduces me to his friends, “Babe this is Gary and his very pregnant wife, Linda.” I tell them that it’s very nice to meet the two of them, and we place our orders, and the server tells us that our meals will be here in just a bit. “So Faith, what’s your major?” Gary asks. Linda sighs and says, “You must get so sick of being asked that all of the time.” Kevin smiles, “What it is anyway?” I take a sip of my champagne before replying, “Astronomy.”  “Wow. You didn’t tell us she’s a brain Kevin,” Linda says. “I flunked astronomy.” Gary sighs. Kevin sits there, mouth agape as he is lost for words. He clears his throat and says, “I had no idea you were majoring in astronomy.” “It’s so much math.” Linda adds. The server then returns with our meals and we all thank her as she turns to leave the table. Taking a bite from the delicious food on his plate, Kevin says, “How does everyone like this Santa Milion?” 

Of course the conversation doesn’t stay focused on the meal for long. Gary just has to bring up a whole new discussion about astronomy. “You know I heard that they discovered another universe, after this one, like some billion light years away, or something like that.” Gary says. “Who cares Gary!” Lind tells him. “Maybe Faith does, after all it is her major. What exactly is a black hole, really?” Kevin takes a sip from his glass and asks me to fill them in on what a black hole is. “Boy have I really gotten myself into a fine mess”, I think to myself. I sit and think for a couple of seconds before replying, “I guess the easiest way to explain it, without a working knowledge of  forth dimensional geometry, is that it’s just simply a hole.” Gary looks at me in disbelief and says, “Just a hole?” “In space dummy,” Linda tells Gary. “That’s black,” I add. Gary shakes his head and chuckles, “I still don’t get it.” “Kevin tells us your entire sorority house transferred here from New Jersey.” Linda says. I smile slightly and reply, “Not exactly all of us, actually. Just five of us.” “See Kevin, I told you it wasn’t the entire house.” Linda adds. Kevin smiles and we all discuss the wonderful meal we had just had, and start a new conversation about dessert. 

Two hours later, Kevin and I leave the restaurant, and he drives me back to the house he had picked me up from. “I really don’t want this evening to end,” he tells me as he opens my door. Our eyes lock as he gently strokes my cheek. He kisses me passionately, and I wrap my arms around him. As our passion grows, I have to move away from him. “I-I really have to go Kevin,” I tell him. He takes a deep breath as I go around the car to meet him at the drivers window. “About Friday. Plan on spending the night, and tell your house mother, that you’re visiting your parents for the week.” he tells me as he gets into his car. “I’ll try,” I reply. Kevin then smiles a sweet smile before giving me one last kiss goodnight, “Well try hard.” 

 The following day at school in science class, Mr. Linden is talking about how well the class did on the quiz we took on Friday, and then continues on to his lecture of the day. “Kevin wants to go out again Friday night. He wants me to spend the night with him,” I tell Shannon. She smiles and says, “You’ve gotta tell him the truth Faith.” “What if he freaks out?” I ask. She sighs and says, “If he really loves you, then it shouldn’t matter. Do you think you love him?” I shake my head in confusion, and tell her that I’m not sure. Shannon then asks me if I love him enough to sleep with him. I sigh and tell her that I really don’t know, but I think I do. With seriousness in her eyes she says, “Then you gotta tell him.”

The next three days go by so quickly and I feel like my head is spinning. I have been deep in thought about what Shannon had said on Monday about telling Kevin the truth about me and about my age. She’s right, if he really loves me, then my age won’t matter to him. That night, I tell my mother that I will be staying the night at Shannon’s house which she says is ok. Once again Shannon picks me up and I get ready at her house. Her mother never asks any questions about what we’re doing or where we’re going, so it’s the perfect way to be able to see Kevin again. After I’m ready to go, Shannon drops me off at the house for Kevin to pick me up. 

Twenty minutes later, Kevin picks me up and he takes me to this very fancy/expensive restaurant. As our meals are set onto the table, the server refills our drinks, and laves the table. “Kevin this place is really nice,” I tell him with a smile. He flashed that cute smile of his and says,” For the money it’s costing, it should be. It’s worth it  to be here with you.” I smile and thank him. He grins and says, “Can I tell you something?” “Sure,” I reply. “The last women I went on three dates with, I lived with for eleven months,” he says as he tips his glass to his lips.  When I ask him what happened, he continues by telling me that they had gotten into a weird fight about a new couch for the living room. He says that he decided he had to go with his own taste because the couch was probably going to be around longer than she was. That’s when I decide I think it’s time to try and tell him the truth. “Kevin, do you think I can tell you anything?” I ask. He smiles and says of course I can, and that the older he gets, the more he realizes openness is the more important part of a relationship. “You’d feel the same way, no matter what? I mean this could be a shock.” I hesitantly tell him. He then leans in and says, “Trust me. I’m shock proof. Faith, what is it?” he asks. 

“First of all, I want you to have my phone number.” I tell him. He smiles widely and says, “You got a phone.” I smile slightly and say, “No. I’ve always had a phone. I don’t live in that sorority  house, and I don’t go to college.” His smile turns to more of a puzzled expression and suggests that I must work then. I glance down at my plate and say, “Kevin, I am a junior at Beverly High.”  “What kind of a junior?” he asks. I look at him and say, “A sixteen year old junior. Look, my best friend, Shannon told me that if we were getting serious, that I had to tell you the truth, and that if you really loved me, it wouldn’t matter anyway.” With a very irritated expression, he says, “Oh is that what Shannon said?” I then tell him how I thought he was shock proof. The server comes back over the table with the wine bottle and asks if we would like a refill, and Kevin tells him that maybe he should check my ID. “Or is that fake too?” Kevin asks. Confused, the server leaves the table once again to assist his other tables. Kevin becomes angry and says,”How could you do this to me? What is this, some kind of a high school prank?” “Kevin, I’m sorry. I thought,” I begin but Kevin quickly interrupts me. “You thought… You thought wrong. I should sew your parents.”  He then calls for the waiter to bring him the check, and he does just as he is asked. Kevin pays for our meals and we get into his car for him to take me home.

Most of the ride home is spent in silence as tears stream down my cheeks. As we draw near the road I live on, I tell him to make a left, and that’s when he breaks the silence. “Tell me, Faith, was it fun playing grownup?” he asks. Tears then pore from my eyes as I say, “My feelings for you didn’t change just because I’m a few years younger than you thought I was.” He lets out a chuckle before replying, “What the hell do you know about feelings?” “I know alot about feelings. I would never tell anyone I liked them and then treat them the way that you’re treating me.” “Just wait until somebody you thought you cared about lies to you.” he says angrily. “You know, don’t you think it was hard on me too, Kevin?  Lying to my family about where I was going at night, flunking out of school. All for what? God, I can’t believe it. I was gonna sleep with you tonight. You were gonna be the first guy.” I say as I choke back the tears. He gives me an apologetic look as he puts the car in park in front of my house. I get out of his car and he chases after me down the pathway leading to the house. “Faith,” he says as he tries to grab a hold of my arm. “No! Just get off of me, I’m glad this happened.” I tell him. “At least let me walk you to the door,” he says. “No! Just leave me alone! I never wanna see you again!” I yell. 

I run towards the house and Mom opens the door and closes it behind me. I then wrap my arms around her tightly, “I’m so sorry Mom.” “Oh baby. It’s alright honey. It’s okay. I know, I know,” she soothes. I then wipe my face with the sleeve of my jacket, and tell her that I never meant to lie to her, and how very sorry I am for doing so. “I know you didn’t honey. I know.” Our conversation then moves to the couch in the living room, and she asks me who the guy in the car was as she moves a couple pieces of hair from my face. “Some guy. Shannon and I went to a club….” I begin to explain. “Oh, honey, I’m sorry. It’s my fault too. I just… I knew things weren’t right, and I just….oh, I wanted you to be happy here, to fit in, but not like this.” Mom says. “I know.” I whisper as I bury my face into her shoulders once more. “Oh, It’s alright honey.” Mom soothes. Adam comes downstairs and asks what’s going on, and what’s wrong. I sit up before replying, “Nothing, Look, can we talk about this tomorrow, I have a lot to catch up on with chemistry.” “Yeah sure honey,” Mom says and I head up to my room and catch up on my homework. 

Chapter – 4

That evening,  Adam offers to give me a ride to the Country Club to meet Kevin. “Are you sure you don‘t want me to wait here in case the guy doesn’t show?” Adam asks. “I’m positive Dad,” I tease. “I’m being serious. You don’t know what this guy is capable of. For all you know, he could be a psycho path who preys on women. You know it’s not unheard of.” I smile slightly before replying, “Adam, I’m sure I have nothing to worry about. If it will make you feel better, I’ll call you when we get to the restaurant.” He then gives a little nod, “Just be careful. Alright? I mean, I worry about you being out there with someone who you’re hiding the whole family from . “I’m really hoping you all can meet him soon. Besides, when I go out with him, I always make sure we‘re in a public place.“ I lie, to ease his mind and get him to back off a little. He then drops me off at the park, and I give a little wave, as I take a seat on a nearby bench to wait for Kevin. Ten minutes goes by as I read my book to pass the time, and I suddenly hear a voice behind me ask if I’m ready to go. Closing my book, I smile widely, “Kevin!” I shout and push my book back into my purse. Rushing up to him, he wraps his arms around me tightly and presses his soft gentle lips on mine. “I’ve missed you! Why didn’t you call me at work today?” he asks. Looking into his hazel eyes, I reply, “I have a big test to study for, so I spent the whole day hitting the books.” He smiles before replying, “Well, I’m glad you decided to take a break and come out to see me. I’ve missed you so much babe. Come on, lets get going. We don’t want to be late.” I let out a little giggle, “What exactly are we going to be late for?” I ask. “We’re just going to meet a few of my friends for a few drinks at the club. Don’t worry, they’ll love you, and they can’t wait to meet you. I have told them all about my mystery girl,” he chuckles. I nod nervously, and tell him that I‘m ready to go, and we get into his car. Upon arriving at Angelo’s, Kevin waves to his friends who are already sitting at the bar. Kevin then leads me to a table, where we can all get better acquainted. “Faith, this is Claire and her fiance  Shane. On the Dance floor over there is Serenity and her boyfriend, Logan.” he says. I turn my attention to Claire and David, and tell them that it’s nice to finally meet some of his friends. Claire smiles and says, “Well, Kevin has always been like a big brother to me, I’ll be flying into Chicago next week for a meeting.” Kevin and David then go to the bar to get our drinks, and Claire leans toward me and continues, “I haven’t seen him this happy in a very long time. He’s been through so much in his past relationship with Jodi. Please take care of him while I‘m gone, and make sure he doesn‘t do anything stupid.”  I smile and tell her that he’s in good hands and that I promise not to let anything happen to him. She smiles widely in return, and the guys return to the table with our drinks. The hours fly by as the six of us sit at the table, and chat away about how nice it is to get out and just have some fun. Serenity and Logan decide to call it a night, and leave early, and Kevin and I decide to heat up the dance floor while Claire and David talk at the table. Kevin twirls me around as we dance the night away, but then he does something totally unexpected. He spins me around and plants his lips on mine, and deepens the kiss by dipping me. When he lifts me back onto my feet and lets me  up for air, he whispers, “Faith I‘m falling for you. I’m finding it harder to concentrate on work, and finding myself constantly thinking about you. Do you feel the same?” Surprised at what he had just said, made me think. I guess I must have been deep in thought as his smile turns to a frown, “You don‘t feel the same way do you?”  “I’m sorry. I was just thinking about the first time we met, and what happened at your place when you brought me there. Of course I feel the same way about you. I just wanna take things slow ya know, “I tell him. He smiles widely, “I think about that all of the time! Faith, I am not afraid to say that I love you, and how I can’t wait to meet your parents one day. They have raised a fine young lady, and I’m not ashamed to call you mine!” He then kisses me passionately and I go weak at the knees, and all of my problems just disappear. As our passion grows, Claire and David approach us on the dance floor. “ahem!” David clears his throat and Kevin and I break our kiss. “David chuckles and says, “Claire and I have to head home as it’s getting late.” “By the way, is that a new form of dirty dancing? I just…. I haven’t seen any kind of dancing like that before,” she teases. Kevin gives a little frown at both of them for interrupting, “Very funny you two! I’ll call you when I get home to let you know that I made it safely.” David knuckle bumps him, and Claire gives him a goodbye hug. Kevin then looks down at his watch and says that he should be getting me home as well. “We don’t want your house mother to get her panties in a wad,” he chuckles. I nod in agreement and he takes me back to the sorority house, where Adam picks me up after I call him.Six months later…….

 Adam and I are chatting away about how California has earthquakes, as the phone rings. “I hope that’s not for me,” I tell him. Adam gives me a puzzled look and says, “Why not?” “Because it’s after 11pm, and Mom doesn’t like it when my friends call me after 11pm.” I reply. Mom enters the room and smiles, “Adam, it’s for you. It’s Heather.” Adam beams as Mom hands him the phone. He then takes it into his room and closes the door behind him for some privacy. I can’t help but to be nosy and listen in on their conversation. “Hi! Good how are you doing? Oh, It’s great, I love it out here. It’s November, and we’re in the middle of a heat wave. Of course I miss you. Yeah, really. You know I do. No, of course I don’t want you to meet somebody, but if you do, you do. Tomorrow? You’re coming tomorrow? No, no! Tomorrow’s great! Y-y-you can stay for the weekend. You know I want to see you. Of course I’m glad you’re coming. Hold on a second okay?” Adam tells Heather. He opens his door and shouts to Mom, but quickly notices her standing by the door listening in, “Hey, Mom…uh Heather’s coming to visit for the weekend.” I then poke my head from around the corner and tell them that Heather can stay in my room. Mom gives him the thumbs up and we leave the room so they can continue their conversation. 

The following day after school, and I’m riding home with Adam. “Hey slow down hotshot. The plane doesn’t get in for another three hours.” I tell him. “I know, I just wanna be prepared,” he replies. “You’re nervous, aren’t you?” I ask. “No, I am not nervous. Do you think I’ve changed?” he asks. “Oh, yeah. In fact, I don’t know however she’s gonna recognize you.” I tease. “Maybe I should get her some flowers, huh?” he asks. “I smile before replying, “I think it’s too late for that.” Adam begins to reply, but notices Heather standing in the driveway waiting on us to get out of the car as we pull in. Adam rushes up to her and wraps his arms around her tightly. “Hi. How are you?” he asks her. “Good, what about you?” she replies. “What are you doing here? You’re not supposed to be here until 8:00pm.” Adam asks. “I know, I took an earlier flight.” Heather replies. “We’ve been gabbing here forever, and just having the best time.” Mom adds. “Hi.” Adam tells her and give her a little kiss. “Heather’s caught me up on all the gossip. You know, it’s amazing how much you miss in only a couple of months.” Mom says. “We’ll see you guys later, right Mom?” I ask her, trying to give Adam and Heather their space. “Oh, right,” she replies and follows me inside of the house.Later that night, as Heather and I are setting up the cot she will be using in my room she asks, “So any new guys since you moved?” she asks. ” I can’t help but to blush as I reply, “Actually there is a guy, but you can’t tell my Mom about it or she will freak.” Heather lets out a little giggle before replying, “So, I’m guessing he’s an older guy. In college?” I then fill her in on how Shannon made the fake ID’s and how I was the only one who passed for twenty-one, and how I met Kevin. “Oh, Faith, I wouldn’t have taken you as the bad girl type! Is it serious?” she asks. “I thinks so. I mean I can’t stop thinking about him. I’ve already met his friends and have been to his townhouse.” I reply. She then tells me the same thing that Shannon had said, that if gets serious I should tell him the truth about me. After we sit and chat for hours, and catch up on everything between the two of us, Heather says that she needs her rest, and how tired she is after the flight here. I agree and we both head to bed, only Heather can’t sleep. She then gets up to take a shower. Adam who is lying in bed, can’t sleep either. He hears the shower turn off in the bathroom, and gives a gentle knock. Heather smiles and opens the door after she wraps herself in a towel. He closes the door behind him and embraces her in a kiss, “I just wanted to say goodnight.” As he lets her up for air, she sighs and tells him goodnight in return. “Come into my room in an hour.” he tells her. “Adam, what if your Mom decides to check on us?” she asks. “She won’t, I promise. She sleeps like the dead. Don’t say no. ” he replies and kisses her passionately. She sighs and says, “I waited so long, and I just wanted it to be special.” “Trust me. Right now, this is special. You just won’t know until you do it. Then you’ll look back and realize just how special it was. Just come into my room in fourty-five minutes.” he says. In return she tells him that she’ll think about it and heads back into Faith’s room.One hour passes by as Heather and Adam toss and turn, unable to sleep. She wants him badly, but she also doesn’t want to anger his family. Adam who is in his room, finally gives up and rolls over to his side as he tries to catch some sleep. With her emotions running wild, Heather decides to get up and enters Adams room. He sits up as she sits on his bed and he kisses her softly. “You know, if we had to move 2,000 miles for you to come and spend the night, I think it was worth it.” he tells her. “Adam, do you have protection?” she asks and he tells her that he does. “That’s always been my problem. Lots of protection, but no one to protect.” he says. She smiles and tells him that she can change that, and two of them intertwine in a passionate kiss. Early the following morning, just as Adam is about to make breakfast, Heather enters the room. He turns to her and wraps his arms around her tightly and says, “That was amazing, wasn’t it?” “Uh-huh.” she replies. “I am really glad that you’re here. I didn’t even realize how much I’d missed you.” he tells her as he kisses her. “Hey, don’t let me interrupt anything. Fresh brewed coffee? Trust me, he never does this. So, what are you guys up to today?” I ask with a smile. “I wanna go see movie stars,” Heather says. “She wants to go see movie stars,” Adam tells me. “I smile before replying, Adam, I didn’t go deaf overnight.” Adam beams as he gets an idea and turns to Heather and says, “Hey I gotta great idea, why don’t we get out of here, we can grab a bite to eat on the road someplace?” She tells him okay and the two head out to who knows where.Later that evening, Adam and Heather return after site seeing all afternoon and informs me that his good friend Jax is coming to pick us up to take us to a club where Heather can meet a few movie stars he knows. “Well if Jax is taking us, then we’ll get in.” I tell her. “What’s his story anyway?” Heather asks. I then tell her that I’m not really sure, and how he lives in a hotel room, and keeps to himself. “You see, I really haven’t figured him out yet. He’s a bit of a wild child.” I explain. Adam then calls from downstairs and tells us to come on or we’re going to be late. Heather and I smile as we grab our purses and rush downstairs and out of the door behind Adam.As we make our way outside, Jax is standing outside by his Porsche. “What a cool car! Do you mind if I ride with him? I mean come on, I may never get the chance to ride in a Porsche  again!” Heather tells Adam excitedly. “No. I mean, if that’s what you want.” Adam replies with a sigh. “Alright man, we’ll see you there,” Jax tells Adam as he knuckle bumps him. As Adam and I are heading to the club, he turns to me and says, “Is it just me, or is Heather acting weird today?” I then tell him that I don’t know and that she seems the same to me as she always has. “I thought you guys were having a good time?” I tell him. “We are. It’s just she’s so into this California thing. You know, the houses, the stores, and the cars.” he continues. “You mean like Jax‘s car?” I ask. “Yeah, kind of. Didn’t she seem just a little too enthusiastic about getting a ride from him tonight?” he asks. “Well, take a look at the option.” I tell him with a smile. “Adam grins before replying, “Obviously she doesn’t like me for my car. Jax didn’t seem too unhappy about the idea either.” With a concerned look I ask, “What are you saying? Don’t you trust your own friend?” “Sure, of course I trust them. It’s just I think they’re both acting a little weird, that’s all.” he replies. “Well, I think you’re acting a little paranoid.” I tell him. “Paranoid? I hope you’re right,” he says with a hopeful expression. “I know I am. At least try to have a good time tonight. I know she loves you, and no one else.” I tell him soothingly. We then arrive at the club and swing into a parking spot and park the car. Upon entering the club, Adam’s smile turns to a frown as he notices Heather’s arms embracing Jax on the dance floor.  As Adam approaches Jax, and says, “hey,” to make his appearance known. “Hey man, it’s about time you got here.” Jax tells him. “Yeah, well I only had to crash my way in.” Adam tells says. “I left your name with the bouncer.” Jax replies. “I guess he’s got a real short memory.” Adam snaps. “He did, Adam,” Heather adds.  “Listen, why don’t you guys just tell me when you’re finished dancing, okay,” Adam tells her.  “Fine, I’m going to the restroom.” Heather tells them now frustrated.  “Man, she is wild!” Jax says. “No, she’s not.” Adam replies.  “Well, she must be on sensory overload or something.” He tries to explain to Adam. “Listen man, I think you’re the only one on overload.” Adam says as he’s becoming angry. “What are you talking about?” Jax asks. “You can probably go out with any girl in the school that you want.  Why are you hitting on my girlfriend?” Adam shouts.  “Adam, you’re out of your mind. I’m not hitting on her.” Jax says. “Come on! I know how you operate. I know this great club we can get into.  Look at my nice car. No, no, lets just go in, Adam will find us. Let me buy you a drink.” Adam says sarcastically. “THAT is not what happened here!” Jax shouts. “It doesn’t work with Heather.  She’s not into your car, she’s not into your cash, and she’s only into one guy!” Adam retorts. “You?” Jax asks. “That’s right.” Adam snaps back. “Then I think you guys need to have a serious talk, Adam. As much as I hate to tell you this, you’re girlfriend hit on me tonight.” Jax explains. Adam turns as if he’s going to walk away, but instead he rares back and punches Jax in the face. After falling to the ground, Jax gets back up and grabs Adam by the shirt, and says, “You better figure out who your friends are!” He then releases Adam and exits the club. Adam are you alright? What was that all about?” I ask as rush up to him after he had clocked Jax and knocked him to the ground. “Long story, I’ll fill you in when we get home,” Adam tells me. I give a little nod and we decide to split up and find Heather. After searching for about ten minutes, Adam finds Heather who is sitting at the bar drinking her drink. He walks up to her and says, “Come on, we’re outta here.” “Where’s Jax?” she asks. “What’s the difference?” he asks her. “This place is so cool! Once you get in, you don’t even get carded at the bar. There’s nothing like this in New Jersey.” she tells him as she takes another sip out of her drink. “Yeah. How many of these have you had tonight? he asks her. “I don’t know. Jax and I had a couple before you got here.” she replies. Taking her drink from her hand and placing it back onto the counter he says, “Yeah, well, I think you have had one too many.” She then smacks him on the shoulder and tells him not to ever tell her what to do. “What’s with you Heather? This isn’t you.” he tells her. “How would you know? You haven’t seen me for six months. People change.” she snaps. “Well, after last night, I thought we’d be closer than ever.” he tells her now concerned for their relationship. “Why, because I had sex with you?” she asks. “Yeah,” he replies. Shaking her head, she says, “Grow up Adam. Sex doesn’t make people closer. It only tears them farther apart.” she says. “And what makes you such an expert?” he asks. “Because I’ve done it before.” she shouts. “What are you talking about?” he asks. “It’s no big deal, it just happened.” she says. “What do you mean it just happened?” he asks her.  “What difference does it make!? she says now frustrated. “A hell of a lot of difference! After you make me wait and….. who was it? Cole Taylor? huh? He always wanted to jump your bones.” Adam retorts. “It doesn’t matter who, besides, it’s none of your business! We broke up right before you moved to California. Long distance relationships don’t work. Your words, remember?” she shoots back at him. “I want a name right now, or you can get on the next bus back to New Jersey!” he demands. “Fine! You don’t have to ask me twice! I’m gone!” She yells and storms off. Two minutes after their argument, Adam finds me and we rush out of the club to find Heather who is getting into a cab. “Heather, Heather wait!!” we yell as we try to catch the cab which is now driving away. Adam stops and takes a deep breath, “Damn,” he thinks to himself.  As Adam and I get into his car I ask him why Heather would just leave like that, and what happened when he found her. He then tells me that now is not the time for questions, and that he will fill me in on it later. Upon pulling into our driveway, and entering the house, Adam follows me upstairs to my room where our mother is looking for something next to Heather’s bed. “Mom, what are you doing?” I ask.  “Heather’s mother just called from New Jersey completely out of her mind. Heather’s been missing for four days. They didn’t even know she was out here. Heather didn’t just come out here to visit you Adam. She ran away from home.” Mom tells us. “I’ll go look for her,” Adam says and jumps into his car.  He heads to the hotel where Jax has been staying to see if she might be there. He knocks on the door and Jax answers. “Hey man, Heather disappeared. I.. ” Adam begins and Jax interrupts him. “I know.” he replies. “She’s here?” Adam asks with a surprised look upon his face. “Yeah, but look, it’s not what you think. Come on,” Jax tells him as he opens the door wide enough for Adam to come in. “So where is she?” Adam asks. “Well, right now she’s in my bathroom getting sick. I didn’t hit on her man. I swear.  She’s not into me, that isn’t what this is all about.” Jax explains. “Then why don’t you tell me what this is all about, cause I’m feeling pretty clueless here?” Adam asks. “Ask Heather. Seems to me you guys have alot to talk about.” Jax tells him. “You’re not gonna believe this, but I thought tonight was going to be incredibly romantic.” Adam says. “Welcome to the real world. Adam, the girl’s got problems.” Jax says. “Why does Newcrest have this effect on people?” Adam asks. “Hey, don’t put this off on Newcrest. These problems go way back.” Jax says as Heather enters the room and says “Hi” to Adam. “Umm I’m going to slip out for a little while. Listen if you need anything like clean towels or room service or whatever, call downstairs and they’ll take care of you,” Jax tells them. He then shakes Adam’s hand and he exits the room.“So you want to tell me what this is all about? You getting drunk, running out of the club?” Adam asks Heather who is taking a seat on the couch in the living room. “You think you know everything about me, don’t you? That the way I am around you is the way I am for the rest of my life?” she asks. “What are you talking about?” He asks her. “All you ever thought about when you moved was how tough it was going to be on you. That you’d be in a strange city and have to make new friends. I thought you’d miss me.” she tells him. “I did, I do.” he replies. Heather furrows her brow and says, “No, Adam. Not like I missed you. You’ve got a new life, you have new friends. I’m stuck with the same old problems and the same old people.” “And what problems did you ever have?” he asks. “How about a stepfather I hate and a mother that defends him, and a father that never calls me, not even on my birthday.” she tells him. “I didn’t realize things were so bad.” he says sympathetically. “Because I didn’t want to put my problems on you.” she says. “Heather, I could have handled it.” he says. “Well I couldn’t! When we were together, or with your family, I felt safe. I didn’t have to think about things. So you got me sweet and up and always happy and ready for a good time.” she says. “But you didn’t have to be that way.” he replies. “I liked myself that way.  When you moved, it’s like the whole world caved in on me, and I couldn’t be that way anymore.” she explains with tears poring down her cheeks. “Hey, hey, come here. It’s okay,” Adam soothes as he hugs her tightly. “I thought if I came out to see you, things would be better, but seeing you again only made everything worse.” she tells him. “Do you wanna go home? he asks her.  “I should at least call my mom, and let her know I came out to visit.One hour later, Adam brings Heather home with him and Mom greets them in the foyer. “Heather, you’re mother called. “Where’s the phone?” Heather asks mom. “Try the one in my bedroom. It’s private.” Mom tells her. Adam then follows her halfway up the stairs and whispers, “It’ll be alright, I’ll be right downstairs if you should need me.” Heather gives a little nod, and heads to my mothers room to call her mom. “I can’t believe you’re so calm. Everything Adam does is fine. If this was me, you would be freaking out.” I point out. Turning to me, Mom says, “Sweetheart, I am freaking out. She then places both hands on my shoulders, signaling for us to move into the living room and take a seat to wait for Heather to come down.A few hours later, I stand by Adams bedroom door and ask if I can come in, which he says I may. I then take a seat in a chair beside his as he was just reading a book, as he says, “I thought I really knew her. But there was this huge gap between the Heather I wanted her to be, and the Heather she really is. I guess I couldn’t see the problems or the hurt, because I never took the time to really notice them.” “You can’t see what people won’t let you see. I’m her best friend, and even I didn’t know there were any problems at home. She shut me out as well, so don’t punish yourself like that.” I tell him soothingly. “Yeah, but I thought we were so close. I mean, she knew everything about me.” he replies. I smile before saying, “Even how you used to eat Mom’s makeup?” Adam gives a little chuckle and says, “Well I guess we didn’t share all of our secrets.”  “It’s never too late you know.” I tell him. With a frown, Adam replies, “Feels like all I want to say right now is goodbye.” I give him a soft tap on his knee and tell him that it’s a start and head off to bed.The following morning, Heather is putting her remaining belongings into her carry on bag, as Adam enters the room. “Are you sure I can’t take you?” he asks her. “That’s what an airport shuttle’s for,” she tells him. “Well, at least you’re flying home.” he says. “It’s amazing how generous parents become  when you push them to the wall.” she explains. “You guys going to work things out?” he asks. “No choice.  Real estate is a little steep out here for me right now. But, give me a couple of years. I’ll be back.”she tells him. Adam then helps her fold up the bed and says, “Well, it was an experience. “I’m sorry. There’s something I want you to know. The other night when we made love, it was special. Even though it wasn’t my first time, and you may never forgive me for that. But, trust me, it was different.” she tells him. “How? he asks. ”  “It’s like it was supposed to be, like I had always imagined it would be. I guess because my feelings for you are so intense, that and the way you held me afterwards. It’s something that I’ll never forget.” she explains. “So, who was it Heather?” Adam asks her. Shaking her head, she replies, “Don’t you understand? It doesn’t matter. It was meaningless.  That’s something I have to live with. But it did make me realize one thing.” The shuttle bus then arrives at the house, parks by the curb, and honks it’s horn. “I have to go,” she says as she grabs her suit case and heads downstairs. As she steps on the platform of the foyer, Adam shouts from halfway down the stairs, “Heather, Heather Wait! What did it make you realize?” She turns around and smiles as she replies, “Adam, you are a wonderful lover.” She then picks up her luggage and exits the house to get onto the bus.That afternoon, I walk to a phone booth and call Kevin. The phone rings about four times before he picks up and says, “Hello.” “Hey babe, it’s me, Faith.” I say. “Mm baby, how I have missed hearing your voice. I was beginning to think you didn’t want to see me anymore, considering I haven’t heard from you almost all weekend.” he tells me. “I had to visit with my family this weekend. An old family friend came to visit my parents. I have missed hearing your voice as well,” I reply. “Well then, it sounds to me like we need to make up for lost time. How about I pick you up tonight? Say, eight O’clock?” he asks. I tell him that would be great, except that I’m not home and that I won’t be able to see him until Monday, because I wouldn’t be home until late tonight. He sighs and says, “Well if I must I’ll wait until then. I just can’t stand the thought of not being able to see you,” he tells me. “I can‘t either baby. I just wanna feel your arms embracing me. Say, maybe we can just chill at your place and watch a movie sometime,” I tell him. He said that sounds great, and that he can’t wait to see me on Friday night as he has something special planned. I tell him that sounds nice and that I can’t wait either. We then say our goodbyes and hang up the phone. I smile widely at the thought of seeing him on Friday night. I just want him to wrap me in his arms.

Chapter – 3

Four hours have passed and the plane finally lands in Los Angeles California. The three of us follow the other passengers through the door towards the front of the plane, and down a platform which leads into the airport. “Would you two like some dinner before we head home? There’s all kinds of restaurants to chose from.” Mom tells us. “I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m famished and can go for some Steak n’ Shake” Adam says with a smile as he rubs his stomach. “Geez Adam, do you always think of your stomach? You just got done eating a ton of snacks on the plane,” I kid. With a smirk, Adam looks down at his stomach and pats it gently, “Yup, pretty much. I’m a growing boy, who needs to eat.” We all agree that Steak n’ Shake is where we’ll have dinner. We then sit at the table, and chat away for what seems like forever about the plane ride and our new house. “It feels so good to feel like a family again, and it almost feels like old times. Now if my father would walk in and sit at the table to join us, it would be absolutely perfect.” I think to myself.

One hour later, after the three of us have eaten our dinner, and chat away at the table, Mom looks at her watch and notices how late it’s getting. She then pulls out her phone, and calls the limo driver, and tells him to meet us out front. We then grab our luggage from the bin in the middle of the airport, and head outside and get into the car. “Where to Miss?” The driver asks Mom. “I675 E. Palm Drive in Newcrest, “Mom tells him. The driver respectfully tips his hat, and tells Mom that it’s about an hour drive, and offers us all drinks and snacks in the small refrigerated compartments. I then rest my head on the back of the seat and look at the beautiful scenery as Adam grabs something to snack on. “Really? How can he possibly still be hungry after all that he just ate?” I think to myself.

One hour later, I’m being shaken awake by Adam who is extremely impatient, “Come on Faith! Wake up we’re home!”  “Just give me five more minutes,” I mumble and start to drift off again until I hear Mom yelling for us to bring our luggage into the house. I then rub the sleep from my eyes and get out of the car. It’s then that I notice the huge dream house that I had always wanted to live in. A small staircase leads down to the entrance, and palm trees over look the property with the greenest grass you had ever seen, which has been freshly cut for the final touch. Any girl would be lucky to live in a house like this. The driver hands Adam and I our luggage, and we bring it into the house. As we enter the large dream home, the living room which is fully furnished, is to the right, and a huge gorgeous dinning room to the left, which is also fully furnished. I head upstairs to pick out my bedroom and put my things away.

Upon entering one of the bedrooms upstairs, I immediately know this is my room. The room is beautifully decorated in light blue colors (my favorite) with some beautiful white drapes for the final touch. Whoever had this room before me, had put alot of thought into the decor. I put my bags down on the bed, and look out of the window to take in the beautiful scenery. My room is right above the back patio which has a huge swimming pool. I have to admit, this house is far better than the old house, but I really do miss my friends. My cell phone rings in my back pocket, and I look at the screen and see that it’s Heather calling me. Before I even get the chance to say hello, Heather blurts out,”Hey girl, did you make it to your new house alright?” “Yeah, we just got here. Dude, you should see this house! I can’t wait until you come to visit us over the summer!” I tell her excitedly. ” I can’t wait either! Oh my gosh, is it one of those celebrity houses?” she asks. I let out a giggle and say, “I don’t think so, but it is very nice. It has it’s own sauna, hot tub, and pool. My room alone I think was made for ten people, and the only thing that’s missing is a maid!” As our conversation goes on, I can hear Mrs. Morgan in the background telling her that she has school in the morning, and that she needs to get some sleep. “I have to go girl, tell Adam I said I’m glad you guys made it alright and that I love him.” Heather says. “I sure will, goodnight Heatherboo, sleep well.” I tell her and I close my cell phone. As I turn around to exit the room, Adam is standing in front of the doorway. “Oh my… You need to tell me when you’re standing right there! You scared the hell out of me! You know I don’t like anyone in my room after Craig pulled his stunt!” I say in a shaky voice.

“I’m sorry Sis, but I didn’t just wanna shout to tell you that I’m in the room while you’re on the phone. Was that Heather you were talking to?” He asks. I take a deep breath before replying, “Yeah that was her. She wanted to make sure we got here alright, and she told me to tell you that she loves you.” “I’ll have to call her tomorrow after school.” Adam says. Noticing me fiddling around with my fingers, and my hands trembling a bit he says in a gentle voice, “Hey, are you sure you’re alright? I didn’t mean to scare you like that.” “Yeah, I’m fine. I’m going to put my things away and get some sleep, considering our first day of school is tomorrow.” Adam nods and says he’s going to do the same, and hugs me goodnight. 

The following morning is hectic, considering Adam and I have to share a bathroom. I pound on the door and yell, “Come on Adam, you’re going to make us late on our first day. There are other people who need to take a shower in this house!” Mom enters the second floor when she hears me yelling, “What on earth is going on up here? What’s all the yelling about?” she asks. I begin to tell her about Adam hogging the bathroom, as he exits the room in a towel. “Oh for heaven sake, Adam there are women in the house, get dressed before you come out of there!” Mom scolds. Adam apologizes and goes back into his room. I give Mom a big kiss on the cheek and enter the bathroom to get ready for school.

After being forty five minutes late for school, Adam and I have finally gotten our school schedules from the office, and are on our way to our first class. “What do you have for your first class?” I ask. With a frown, he replies, “Physics. Wish they would have given me tech lab or something easier to start the day. What did you get?”  I smile and reply, “Science. I have tech lab afterwards.” “Lucky you! I don’t have that class until fourth block.” Adam says. “Well here’s my class, I’ll see you after school. Should we meet out front when the last bell rings?” Adam gives me the thumbs up signal and we part ways.

As I enter the class room, a very pretty brunette girl waves for me to take a seat across from her. I give a little smile and take a seat at the square table with her in the back, “I think you have me confused with someone else.” “I’m just being friendly. Hey, thanks for saving my butt. No one ever wants to sit with Beth who will be walking through that door at any given moment. When we have class projects to work on, she doesn’t lift a finger to help out, and claims she did all of the work. I’m Shannon by the way.”  she tells me as she gives a friendly smile. I grin shyly and give her my name in return. Mr. Linden then asks us to turn to page 168 in our science books.

Four hours later at lunch, Shannon and I are walking toward some picnic tables where three other girls are eating lunch. She greets them as she and I sit down to eat and says, “You know it’s a good thing you met me when you did. Newcrest High isn’t like other schools. The kids here are richer, and some of them have parents who are celebrities. So its definitely not your normal high school. Especially when it gets really intense. Make one false move and you’re history.” I smile and reply, You know I had many friends at my old school.” “You mean in New Jersey?” she asks. “But it’s so cold. I can never deal with cold.” she says. “Well you would learn to deal with it.” I tell her. She sighs and says, “Yeah but I would get fat.” 

I smile and explain how we could eat whatever we wanted in the winter and hide it under bulky sweaters. “Yeah well, that wouldn’t work here as it doesn’t get that cold here during the winter months. “Somebody is always throwing a pool party so you never really get the chance to pig out ya know” she explains. As the two of us are chatting away and enjoying our lunch, a small airplane with a banner attached to the end of it flies over the school which reads, “Back To School Jam Friday 150 North Billingsgate Lane.” Shannon gasps and says, “Oh my gosh, that’s Claire Riley’s house! She’s incredibly rich, but such a party girl. I hear her house is so big that you need a map to find your way around. “I can’t believe she’s inviting the whole school. I mean that must be eighteen hundred people,” I tell her. When the airplane turns around and flies back over the school one last time there’s a smaller banner that reads, “No Freshmen!!!!” “Shannon giggles and says, “Well make that twelve hundred. You wanna go together?” I smile and reply, “Yeah sure.”

Three hours later Adam and I arrive home from school. I head up to my room to do my homework with Adam right on my heels. He follows me into my room and says, “So did you hear about that party that Claire Riley is throwing on Friday night?” “Yeah I  was eating lunch with a friend when the plane flew above the school.” I tell him. “So do you wanna hit this party? I kinda thought we could go together,” he says. I smile slightly and reply, ” I kind of already made plans. I’m going with a few friends. You know, kind of a girl thing, but you can join us if you want to.” He chuckles and tells me that it’s alright, and that I should go and have a good time as he plops down on my bed. I look at him apologetically and say, “Really? I know you were really hoping to go to this party together. Are you sure you won’t be upset?” He chuckles before replying, Upset? Do I really look like the kind of person who gets upset? Really, it’s no big deal. I’ll see you there.”

Four days later after school, I head up to my room and immediately start looking for something to wear to the party. As I’m putting my makeup on, Mom enters the room and stands beside me. She smiles and says, “I don’t know why you girls wear so much makeup. You’re beautiful just the way you are.” I thank her and head downstairs to accompany my brother before he leaves with his newly found friend Brian. As the group of us are chatting away about how awesome this party is going to be, Shannon pulls up in her cherry red convertible and honks the horn. Mom escorts me outside and I introduce her to my three new friends. She then goes to asking when their curfew is, which is really embarrassing on my part. “Mom, I told you they don’t have a curfew here.” I tell her. Mom sighs and says, “Midnight okay?” Twelve thirty,” I argue. She smiles and says, “Twelve fifteen.” I sigh and tell her that it’s fine, and Shannon starts up her car and we head to the party.

Once we arrive at the party, I can’t help but notice how many people are here already. I don’t think there’s anywhere to even walk. There’s people swimming in the pool, drinking at the bar, and all over the yard chatting about who knows what. “Come on, lets go stand over there by that tree so we’re out of everyone’s way,” Shannon suggests. The four of us nod in agreement and head over to the little spot that Shannon was pointing to. As we‘re standing there chatting away, a few freshmen think that it’s a clever idea to sneak into the party uninvited, and try talking to everyone they come across. One of them walks off, I’m guessing to try and mingle with all the other popular students as the other freshman just kind of stands there. That is until one of the jocks pushes him into the pool, and everyone busts out in laughter as he scurries away. My brother Adam and his friend Brian, make their way by the pool and I give him a little wave. “Who are you waving to?” Shannon asks. “That’s my brother Adam,” I reply. “Ohhh, he’s kinda cute. Oh God, he’s hanging out with Brian Hamilton ” she says. “Who‘s that?” I ask. “He’s my ex-boyfriend. He’s having a hard time getting the message that it‘s over between us.” she explains.

“You know, what we really need to do is make some fake ID’s. Get into some clubs and meet older guys.” she continues. “Do you really think we’d pass for twenty-one?” I ask. “Definitely, it’s all in the act,” she replies but is quickly interrupted by Brian who is pretty drunk. “Whoa, whoa, whoa. Do you wanna dance?” he asks her. “No thanks. I’m fine right here,” she tells him. “Come one, everybody’s dancing,” he tells her. “What do you want from me? I said I don’t wanna dance,” she tells him firmly. He then starts to get angry with her and says, “You are so cold. You know that?” “Get over it Brian!” she tells him. “No, no, no. Get over yourself.” he says and storms off. “Woooo! You go girl!” we all tell her and make our way to her car for the ride home. That Monday in science class, Shannon is making our fake ID’s. “Oh my gosh! This is looking really good! You are going to be able to get into any club in town with this. I’m such an artist,” she proudly tells me. Mr. Linden then clears his throat and says, “Excuse me ladies in the back of the room. I’m not in the mood to lecture preschoolers. So either have the courtesy to pay attention, or get out of my class now!” Shannon then whispers that she’ll show me after school. I nod in agreement and sit in silence as the teacher continues his lecture and Shannon continues making the ID. 

Later in the afternoon when school lets out, I meet up with Shannon and the others out front, and she shows us our fake ID’s. “Wow. Do you think anybody would really believe it? I mean that I‘m that old?” I ask. “First of all, nobody here really knows what a New Jersey license really looks like. Anyways, I think it really matters if the doorman thinks your cute or not.” she giggles. “Well hey, it’s against the law. I’ve never broken the law before,” I tell her with a slight smile. “Look the worst that can happen is they don’t let you in,”  Desiree adds. “So when are we going to test this out? I ask nervously. “Saturday night. At the Blue Lagoon. Are we there?” Shannon asks. “Definitely,” I reply. The others all giggle in excitement and they drop me off at home.

Saturday night has finally arrived. Mom walks in and says, “Oh boy. This place is a disaster zone.” I smile and reply, “This is just the way I keep things organized.” Mom sighs and says, “You didn’t wear this much makeup in New Jersey.” I smile widely and reply, “I know. It looks hot doesn’t it?”  “Honey, you don’t need a lot of makeup.” she says, “Mom, this is California. You gotta be a little glamorous. You know you can borrow any of my makeup anytime you want,” I tell her. Changing the subject she says, “Umm. Who’s party is it this time?” “Just a friend of Shannon’s.” I reply. “Is Shannon driving?” she asks. I tell her it is, and she says that she’ll just get the address from her. I then turn to her and say, “You know, parents in California let their kids go where they want and do what they want. They’re treated like adults.” “Except they’re not. You’re not.” she says. “Mom, you know that you can trust me.” She just gives me the evil mother stare as I put my ear rings in and say, “Fine. I’ll give you Shannon’s number.  Shannon then pulls in my driveway honks her horn, signaling that she’s here. “Mom gently puts her hand on my shoulder and says, “Listen, I want you home by twelve. I’m serious.” Twelve forty-five,” I argue. “Twelve fifteen,” she yells as I’m walking away. I greet the girls out in the car and we head to the club.

Twenty-five minutes later, we finally arrive at the club. Upon entering the front gate, the doorman asks for our ID’s and we all hand them to him. He looks at my ID and tells me to go ahead inside, and I tell Shannon and the girls that I’ll see her in a few minutes. Fifteen minutes goes by as I’m wondering around the club, waiting for Shannon who doesn’t appear to be entering the club anytime soon. I then notice the doorman standing inside of the front door. I walk up to him and ask him if he had seen my friends because they never came inside to meet me. He said he didn’t know who I was talking about. A rather handsome guy approaches us and asks if there was a problem. I about jumped out of my skin and he replies, “Relax, I’m not gonna bite. You just look upset.” “It’s just that my friends ditched me.” I reply. He smiles a kind smile, and says, “Can I buy you a drink or something?” “No, it’s okay. I have to call a cab or something.” I reply. “Oh come on, one drink? I’m a nice guy, honest. Come on,” he says as he tilts his arm towards the bar. I then follow him, and he asks what I would like to drink. “I’ll have a banana daiquiri.” I tell the bar tender. “Very interesting choice,” the cute man says and orders his drink.

He then turns to me and asks me my name, and I tell him in return. He smiles and says, “Hi Faith, I’m Kevin. So are you in school?” he asks. “Yes.” I reply. Curiously he asks which school I go to. I then tell him to guess. “SC?” he guesses. I shake my head no and he guesses UCLA. I then nod in response, and he says, “Hey, that’s where I went to law school.” Really? So you’re a lawyer?” I say. He smiles and says, “Yeah. So tell me, Do you live in a dorm or a house?” I go on and tell him I live in a house, and he asks me which one. Oh boy, is he really going to ask which house? I don’t know if I can keep this up, and even if I can I don’t know for how long. “Which house? I ask. “Yeah. I know all of the sororities there.” he tells me. “Oh ummm… It’s a new one, we just transferred from New Jersey.” I tell him. “The State? You mean to tell me the whole house just transferred from the state of New Jersey?” he asks. “Yeah, something like that,” I reply with a smile. He chuckles and tells me that it’s weird as he take a sip from his glass. 

As the evening progresses, and a few drinks later, Kevin takes me to his townhouse in Roaring Heights. Beautiful hard wood floors glisten as the florescent overhead lights beam on them, Real leather couches, a big ole fireplace, and a sixty-seven inch TV furnish the living room. He places his keys on a stand by the door along with his wallet and chuckles, “I’d offer you a drink, but I’m all out of bananas.” He then turns on some slow romantic music, and I say, ” So, uh, do you live here all by yourself?” He smiles and says, “Yeah. All by myself.” ‘How cool,’ I think to myself as he leaves the room for a split second to hang his jacket up. He then walks back over to me and kisses me passionately. His lips are oh so soft. He has the kind of lips I can imagine kissing over and over again. Not to mention he’s oh so hot! As his lips trail down to my neck, I push him back just enough to where I can face him, “Umm. Our house mother is really strict and I have to be home by midnight.” He winks and says, “Don’t worry Cinderella, I only live a few miles from Kansas.” 

He then starts kissing my neck again, and something doesn’t feel right. “Kevin, what are you doing?” I ask. “Taking your clothes off,” he says as he continues caressing my neck with his lips. “Kevin, Kevin I can’t,” I tell him as I pull the straps of my dress back over my shoulders. “Why not?” he asks with a puzzled look. “Because I just can’t,” I reply. “Relax, I can respect that. I don’t want this thing to go any faster than you do” he tells me. “Really? I ask now smiling, and I tell him that I’m sorry. He nods as if to tell me it’s okay and says, “There’s nothing to be sorry about. You’re very sweet, and very attractive, and if you really wanna go home, I’ll drive you right now. I thank him and he takes me home, but not to my house exactly. We park in front of a tall very tall house, and he gives me his personal number and work number so I can call him whenever I want. As he slips me the piece of paper, he asks if I’m sure that I’m not lying about having a phone. I lie and tell him that I honestly don’t have a phone, and that I would call him when I can. I’m actually surprised that he believed it. He then says that he’s sorry that I couldn’t spend the night, and I tell him that I’m sorry I couldn’t either. I then tell him that I’ll see him soon, and we kiss goodnight, and I walk up to the glass doors of the building, and wait for him to drive out of site. Once he’s out of site, I walk down to a phone booth and call for a cab to take me home.

Upon arriving home, I pay the cab driver what I owe him, and walk to the front door. As I’m fiddling around in my purse looking for my keys, Adam grabs my arm and asks me what I’m doing home so late. I fling his hand off of my arm and tell him that he scared the hell out of me. He then asks if I lost my ride because he saw the cab leave, and I tell him that it’s none of his business. I then asked him what he’s doing home so late. Then his smartass self says it’s none of my business, and we both point at each other at the same time and say, “Don’t tell Mom!” We then head into the house and get head to bed, only I can’t sleep at all, because all I can think about is Kevin.

Early the following morning, I call Shannon from my cell phone and fill her in on what she had missed out on. She asks me if I had told Kevin that I’m in high school and I told her of course I didn’t, and that I had told him that I go to UCLA. She then gets all excited and asks if I thought that he might have a friend. I tell her that I don’t know, and ask what I should do about this situation. She giggles and tells me that I should just have a good time with him, as that’s what she always does. Her mother then enters the room, and tells her that she needs to get off the phone because it’s too early, and that I had woke up her husband. Shannon and I then say our goodbyes and I roll over to get some sleep.

Chapter – 2

Two weeks have passed since my father was laid to rest, and it still doesn’t feel like reality has kicked in. Instead this is more like a dream, a crazy nightmare  that I can’t wake up from. You know the nightmares I’m talking about. The scary weird ones, where you’re running towards the light at the end of the road, but someone is right behind you to suck you back into the darkness that you can’t possibly escape from. Yeah I know what you’re thinking, you’re thinking this girl’s crazy, and that I have watched one too many horror movies. Well maybe you’re right on the horror movie part, but anyway now where was I? Oh Yeah! I was about to explain all the things that have been going on the passed two weeks, well here it goes. My father was given two medals, one for bravery, and the other one he was given is the medal of honor. Things here have gone from bad to worse. Adam of course is blinded by his newly found relationship with Heather, while everyday is a reality check for me. Mom has only gotten worse since the night we received the information of my fathers passing, and has taken up drinking. I’m not talking about drinking the light stuff either. That’s right, she has turned to the hardcore dark liquor. She hasn’t even made it to work in weeks, and if it wasn’t for me this house would be a wreck. Grandma Emily and Grandma Vicki are constantly fighting with my mother, over which one of them is taking Adam and I away from her. My life can’t possibly get any worse, Or can it? 

It’s my first day back at school since that horrible evening two weeks ago, and I don’t even feel comfortable at school. I can’t help but shake the feeling that someone is watching me, but the question is who? Craig Morgan had fallen off of the face of the earth for all I care, and everyone else is mingling in the hall, of course the teachers await the students in their classrooms, and principle Bend-over (as some of the students call him) is in his office talking to one of the parents. I open my locker and reach onto the top shelf to grab my books that I will need for my first four blocks when I hear a familiar voice say, “I see you made it to school, like I had hoped you would. I heard the news over the T.V about your father, and I just wanted to come over to give you my condolences.” Then it occurred to me just who was behind me, “Craig Morgan!” I think to myself.

“Thank you Craig, but I do need to meet Heather and head to class,” I tell him, trying to rush him off. Craig gives a small frown before replying, “I haven’t seen or heard from you in a few weeks, but yet here you are trying to push me away. Faith, why are you pushing me away like this? We used to be so close, and even dated for a little while. I thought our relationship would outlast anybody’s. Look I know I’m not perfect, but I try to be the best I can be for you. Can a guy even apologize when he realizes that he was in the wrong?”

I furrow my brow and say, “Apologize? Craig, do you realize that it’s been almost a month since you did what you did? You’re the one who came to my house drunk, and then tried to force yourself on me! If it wouldn’t have been for Adam….” I begin, but am interrupted by Craig getting down on one knee and taking my hand into his before saying, “Faith, I’m sorry. I don’t know what came over me that night. You’re right, I should have came to you sooner than this. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about us. Just like you, I lost a parent too. My mother passed in a car wreck exactly 1 year ago from that night. I know, I know. I shouldn’t have been drinking, but if I get drunk enough it numbs the pain, at least for a little while. My father says that it’s been a year, and that I should get over it, but how can I? I know it doesn’t give me the right to force you into something that you clearly aren’t ready for. Faith, things haven’t been the same without you in my life. You made me more complete, and I have realized how much I love you. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me and start over?”

Warm tears run down my cheeks as I think of how things used to be. How we started off hot and heavy, and where things went wrong. How I longed for him to sneak through my bedroom window two weeks ago, and just hold me and tell me everything will be alright. He was always my comfort zone, and always knew just what to say to make me feel better. Then I think of his question. Can I find it in my heart to forgive him? I really don’t know how to answer that, nor do I know if I want to. He says he loves me, but if he did why didn’t he call me if he needed me? So many questions are running through my head that it’s starting to give me a headache, and not just any headache, but a migraine. “Well, what do you say? Will you give me a second chance?” Craig asks. “I-I don’t know what to say,” I reply as I wipe the tears from my face with the sleeve of my sweater. “Just say you’ll give me another chance. I’ll do whatever you want. I’ll beg in front of all of these people if that’s what it takes,” he says. Just then I feel a hand on my shoulder and I hear Adam say, “Is this jerk bothering you again? Get away from my sister before my fist meets your face!” “I was just leaving anyway. Faith, I meant every word I said, and all I ask is for you to think about it,” Craig says before getting off the floor and walks away.

“Are you alright? What was that guy thinking? Makes me just wanna show him a thing or two! This guy just doesn’t know when to stop. I hope you’re not seriously thinking about giving him another chance after the stunt he pulled,” Adam says as the bell rings to signal classes are starting. “Saved by the bell, and just in time too. Don’t get me wrong, I love my brother, but that doesn’t mean my life is like an open book to him. “I’ll be alright…. I-I have to get to class, I’ll see you after school,” I reply. “Make sure you meet me out front when school lets out!” he yells. I give him the thumbs up and head into the classroom. First class of the day is computer lab. At least I don’t have to worry about bumping into Craig in here.

This day feels like it’s just dragging on and on. Most likely because I can’t concentrate on my school work. The only thing I can even think about is my conversation with Craig earlier. “Oh what am I thinking? I know deep down that I can never trust him again, and that he’s only giving me lip service. Forgive him? How can I ever forgive him for trying to rape me?” I think to myself. Out of the corner of my eye, I see a guy smirk as he’s looking at me, and he comes and takes a seat at the desk directly across from me. “I see you haven’t really been working on your paper. Perhaps I can move a little closer and give you a hand with it?” he offers. “Umm… I think I got it now, but thank you anyway,” I reply. He then shrugs his shoulders and starts working on his assignment.

One hour later, the secretary’s voice comes over the intercom, “Excuse me, Mrs. Larson?” “Yes Ma’am?” Mrs. Larson replies. “Can you send Faith Parker to the office for parent pick up? ” The secretary asks. “Yes Ma’am, she’ll be right there.” Mrs Larson says. “Faith, go ahead and get your things and head to the office. Here, take this pass with you,” she tells me. I smile slightly, take the pass, and head to the office. “I wonder what that was all about?” I think to myself. Upon entering the office, I notice my mother standing there looking a little shaky. I hurriedly walk up to her and ask her if everything is okay. She gives me a little nod, and we head out to the car and head home. The trip home is very awkward. Adam’s sitting in silence in the backseat with his headphones in his ears as he listens to his Ipod, and Mom sits in silence as she fidgets around in her seat as if she wants to tell us something important.

A few moments later, we pull up in our driveway, and we all enter the house. As Adam and I head towards the stairs, Mom asks us to take a seat in the living room where I notice boxes with our names on them. I shrug it off and think of them only being clothes Adam and I have outgrown, and take a seat next to Adam on the couch. Mom then takes a seat across from us and says, “I know these past few weeks have been very hard on all of us, and with your grandparents arguing with one another, and trying to take the two of you away from me, I have came up with a decision of my own. I have found a nice little house for just the three of us in Beverly Hills California. I’ve done my research on the area and on the high school there, and I have already taken the time to have you both transferred to West Beverly High School. This house has already been sold, and the furniture along with it. We’re all going to have a fresh start. I think it’s a wise move, and I think we can all use a change of scenery.” “I can’t believe what I’m hearing! She wants me to move so far away from home, my family, and from my close friends whom I have known my entire life. I heave dealt with the drinking and her depression, but this time she has gone too far!” I think to myself. Adam hangs his head down low and looks at his feet. I know that look! The look of sorrow and not wanting to leave. I know how he feels, and how Heather is going to feel when we tell her that she’s not only losing one of us but both of us. I don’t want to leave my home or my best friend, but I do know that I don’t have a choice. It’s either I leave with my mother and my brother, or go and live with one of my grandparents where I will have to share a room with one of my aunts. UGH! Why can’t I have a normal life!?

“But I don’t want to to move! I have so much going for me here. I have my family, best friend, and my close friends here, and I know Adam feels the same way. I know he doesn’t wanna leave Heather behind!” I tell her. “Faith, we don’t have much of a choice! Your Grandma Emily and Papa Christian have made it perfectly clear, that they will take me to court to get your father’s only two children from me and that I will never see you again. So you see we have no choice but to leave! I found a good job at a lawyers office as his secretary, and it pays more than I get at my current job. I don’t want to leave here either. I have so many good memories here. Ones that your father and I shared, memories I will never forget. But I need to move forward, and for me to be able to do so, I need to start anew somewhere else. Somewhere I won’t be flooded of memories that has happened. Somewhere your grandparents won’t be watching and waiting for the right moment to snatch you from me.” She explains. Adam and I both look at our mother and give her a little smile and nod. “When do we leave?” Adam asks. “First thing in the morning. I figure I would give you this time to say your goodbyes and finish packing your things. Now go on and have fun with your friends,” Mom instructs. 

I head upstairs, and call Heather to fill her in on the news. Naturally there were some tears shed and her begging me not to leave. But once I explained the predicament Adam and I are now in, she understood our circumstances, and how we don’t have a choice but to move. I also told her we would love to see her before we go to the airport first thing in the morning. Naturally she agreed and rushed over as soon as we hung up the phone. I head downstairs to let Heather in, and once I open the door she rushes up and squeezes me tightly. “I’m going to miss you so much! I just don’t know what I’m gonna do without you!” She cries. My eyes tear up as I reply, “Oh Heatherboo, I don’t want to leave! I don’t know anyone in California, and just who am I gonna share all my secrets with when we move?” 

Heather smirks as she says, “Well, you can always tell Adam.” “Right I can just tell…. WAIT! What? No way would I tell him anything. He’s never been any good at keeping secrets!” I reply. Heather can’t help but to burst out laughing. “Hahaha, gotcha! But seriously dude, if you have something that big of a deal happen in your life, that better be when you pick up your phone and call me!” she says. “Which you know I will! Ugh! This sucks! Why do we have to be saying goodbye!? “It’s because you and your family can use a fresh start, and not to mention those nasty grandparents of yours, who are making things harder on you!” Heather says. I sigh before replying, “I’m glad you understand me so well, and there’s no one else on this earth who knows me like you do! With that said, there’s also someone upstairs who needs you right now.” I tell her. She gives me a nod, squeezes me one last time, and heads upstairs to visit with Adam.

The following morning, I awake to whispering coming from Adam’s room. I slowly get up from my bed, careful not to make a single sound and gradually crack Adam’s bedroom door open, only to find Heather snuggled up in bed with him. Oh my gosh! Did she spend the night with him? I wonder if Mom knows that she had stayed the night. Better not jump to conclusions, she could have just got here, but then again who am I kidding? Heather is never up at eight O’clock in the morning, not even if  her life depended on it. As for Adam, a tornado could come through here, and Adam would still be in bed sleeping. I carefully close the door, and head downstairs to make breakfast.

After staring in the fridge for what seems like forever, I finally decide to whip up some of Mom’s famous scrambled eggs, bacon, and buttermilk biscuits. As I put the biscuits in the oven, Heather and Adam emerge from upstairs giggling and whispering about. Their eyes widen in shock when they enter the kitchen and see me standing here. “Wh- what are you doing up so early?” Adam asks. “Uh I could ask you guys the same thing! Does Mom know that you had company last night?” I ask out of curiosity. “Uh, yes dufus. She stayed in the guest room.” Adam sarcastically replies with a smirk. Good thing I don’t believe that for one second, the expression on their faces tell me different. Heather clears her throat and changes the subject asshe says, “Yes well, my mother will also be meeting us at the airport so I can see you off. You know I wouldn’t miss that for the world!” 

Mom emerges from her room, and enters the kitchen and is pleased that I had made breakfast. As she sits down to eat, Heather tells her that her mother should be here soon, and that we should bring our things into the foyer. Adam and I agree, and the three of us head upstairs to begin taking boxes downstairs, which doesn’t take long considering it’s only the three of us that are moving, and all there is to take with us are our clothes and personal belongings. The door bell rings as we bring the last of the boxes down, and Adam opens the door to let Mrs. Morgan (Heather’s mother) in and shows her into the kitchen. As soon as Mom notices Mrs. Morgan standing before her, she looks at her watch and notices the time. “Goodness gracious! We’re running behind schedule! Our plane leaves in just two hours.” She gathers all of the paper plates and places them in the trash as Adam and I rush around and wash the remaining frying pans that are in the sink. “Oh gosh! What about our things!” I ask remembering they’re in the foyer. “Just grab your suitcases with your clothes, the moving men with gather the rest of our things. They’re going to be meeting us at our new house.” Mom explains. I give a little nod, and we grab our bags and head to the car. 

Forty five minutes later, we finally arrive at the airport. After rushing through security and security rummaging through our items, Mrs. Morgan and Heather escort us to the gates. Heather then turns and embraces me in a giant bear hug and says, “Oh bestieboo, I really wish you didn’t have to go! I’m really going to miss you! You’re the only true friend that I have ever had, when everyone else comes up with crumby excuses not to be my friend, or they just plain avoid me! Please promise to come and visit me from time to time. Maybe if my mom says it’s alright, I can come and stay with you during the summer.” I smile and tell her I would love it if she could stay during the summers. 

She then rushes to Adam, (her first real boyfriend) and says, “I’m sad that we have to be apart, but I am glad that we finally were able to get together, even though the circumstances weren’t good with everything that had happened. I just want you to know that I love you and I’ll be waiting for you.” Adam gently wipes the tears from her face and kisses her passionately. When he lets her up for air he whispers, “I love you too, and I will return to you when I’m eighteen. I promise.” Mom hugs Mrs. Morgan and says, “Anna, Thank you so much for everything! You have been such a dear friend, but sadly we must be off.” Once we have all said our goodbyes, we pass through the gate and board the plane.

Chapter – 1

My name is Faith Parker, coming from a wealthy family with my twin brother Adam. We live in the small town called Willow Creek, where my mother and father had moved after they were married. They bought a small four bedroom home, which over looks a huge park with a creek that has the clearest blue water you could ever imagine. What brought my family to this lovely little town you ask? Well that’s easy, my father has been in the marines ever since he had turned eighteen, and promised my mother that she would remain living near her parents. It took him a few years to be able to keep that promise, but once he had been promoted to Sargent of the Marine Corp. he surprised my mother and bought her the house of her dreams.

My life was turned upside down almost a year ago. I wish I was a regular sixteen year old girl, but a girl can dream can’t she? I had a normal life once, a normal teenage life at that, but I was forced to grow up early at the hand of my mother. It wasn’t totally her fault though, but for you to be able to understand the predicament I am now in, I can only go back to the beginning. It began shortly after our sixteenth birthday, when our birthday party was interrupted by someone knocking on the door. “This may be our guest of honor now,” Mom tells Adam and I as she opens the door. When she turns to see who is standing on the other side of the door, her smile turns into concern, for we haven’t had a police officer at our door before, other than Adam being brought home well after curfew one time. 

The officer asks to speak with Mom privately, which she agrees to do so, and steps out of the doorway, and closes the door behind her. “I wonder what that’s all about?” I ask Adam. He lets out a sigh and says, “I’m not sure, but whatever it is, it can’t be good.” “You didn’t beat the crap out of Craig Morgan from school did you?” I ask him curiously. Adam smiles slightly and replies, “No, but I should have for trying to put his hands on you! Next time I’ll bust him in his forehead for trying to put his hands where they don’t belong! Besides, why would the police be here because of that? All I did was give the guy a piece of my mind!”  I let out a little giggle before replying, “Oh heck Adam, I don’t know anything about the law! I haven’t been in trouble before. You on the other hand, were brought home well past curfew once before.” “That was the only time I was ever in trouble, and what does the cops being here have to do with me exactly?” Adam says with a smirk. “Oh Adam, I was only kidding. It’s probably nothing. Maybe someone’s house got broke into or something” I tell him. 

Twenty minutes goes by, and Mom finally comes back into the house. “Faith, Adam, honey I-I need you to take a seat so I can talk to both of  you,” she tells us. She then turns to my best friend Heather and says,”Would you mind waiting in the other room while I talk to them? It’s really important,” “Yes Ma’am, I don’t mind at all. I’ll just be in the living room,” Heather replies and exits the dining room. Adam and I get a puzzled look as we take a seat at the dining room table across from mom as she looks at the floor and says, “That was Colonel Buchanan at the door. He stopped by to wish you both a happy birthday, and he also said he was sorry to have to give us this heartbreaking information.” Mom pauses as Adam and I glance at one another, and look back over at our mother, who has a sorrowful expression on her face. I break the silence by asking, “What information Mom? Is everything alright?” “Dad should be here soon since he was supposed to be coming home today. Maybe he can sort whatever this is out.” Adam adds. As tears stream down her rosy cheeks, she manages to tell us, “Your father was shot in the line of duty a couple of days ago. This was the soonest Colonel Buchanan could come out and give us this information personally.”

Adam jumps up from his chair and says, “So Dad is in the hospital? We should go and see him before he gets out of surgery!” “This is hard for me to tell you this, especially on your birthday, but your father……” Mom begins, but a storm of tears pore from her eyes, which makes it hard for her to speak. She then takes a deep breath to try and calm herself before she continues, “ Oh no, honey you see….” Mom pauses for a brief moment and then continues. “Your father passed away in the hospital in Iraq. He was protecting his best friend in the marines when he noticed that he had been shot. Your father always said no one gets left behind and he lived by that. They will be awarding your father two medals next weekend in California.” she informs us apologetically. Tears roll down my cheeks after hearing the news Mom had received. I turn my head towards Adam, who is sitting in shock of what we just heard. I reach over to place my hand on his shoulder to comfort him. Swatting my hand away from him he furiously says, “No! It’s not true!” “Adam, I told you everything Colonel Buchanan said about what happened to your father. “Well Colonel Sanders is a liar! A big fat liar! Dad’s on his way home, in fact he’ll be here any minute, you’ll see!” Adam screams and runs upstairs to his room. I plunge my face in my hands and cry uncontrollably at the thought that I have lost my father, and I will never see him again. “I’m sorry Mom, I really am! I’m trying so hard to be strong, not just for you, but for Adam too.” I tell her in between sobs. I can hear Mom sniffling from across the table. I then wipe my tears on the sleeve of my sweater, and look at Mom, who had also been crying. “I’ll go talk to him. You just relax, I’ll be back in a few.” I tell her soothingly.

As I reach the top of the staircase, and reach the door to Adam’s room, I hear him sniffling and trying to convince himself that Dad is still very much on his way home. I take a deep breath and gently knock on his door, and he tells me to come in. I then sit beside him on his bed and put my head on his shoulder. “Shhhh. It’s ok, I’m here.” I tenderly tell him. Tears fall freely down Adam’s cheeks as he says,”H-how can something like this happen? He wasn’t supposed to leave us so soon!” Tears swell in my eyes as I reply, “Oh Adam, I miss him too! He was supposed to be here today, and every birthday and any other special days which may come! I do know this, he may not be here physically, but he’s here in spirit, and as long as we hold those special memories close to use, he will always be with us.” Our conversation is suddenly interrupted by a gentle rapping at the door. I get up and open the door, and find Heather who over heard everything Mom had said downstairs. She gives us a sympathetic look and hugs me tightly and says, “I’m so sorry bestie! If there is anything you need, you ask me alright? I had just left your mom in the kitchen. ” I give a little nod and Heather asks if she may have a word with Adam alone. I agree, and tell them I need to get back to Mom and help her through this.

Upon arriving in the kitchen, Moms glass makes a small tinging sound as she pours herself a beverage and mixes it with some Cola. “Looks like tonight’s gonna be a long night,” I think to myself. “You’re Nana Emily is on her way over with you’re grandma Vicki and Papa Harrison. They’re gonna help me with the arrangements of you’re father. You’re Aunt Allison is coming with them to keep you and Adam company.” She tells me. “Alright Mom. Do you need anything before I head back upstairs to be with Adam?” I ask. She wipes a single tear from her cheek and says, “No honey, I’ll be alright. You go right ahead and be with your brother. You won’t be going to school for the remainder of the week, until we have laid your father to rest.” I give a nod and head back upstairs to Adams room. 

As I clear the top step of the staircase, Things seem very quiet. Perhaps Adam is asleep? Quietly I crack Adams bedroom door open to see if he’s okay or possibly sleeping, and notice Heather and Adam looking pretty cozy. “Looks like he found a way to cope with what happened tonight. Wish I had someone to distract me from this horrible situation our family is in.” I think to myself. Quickly but quietly, I close the door, and head to my room to check my Facebook page and head off to bed. It’s going to be a long day tomorrow and I’m sure I’ll need my rest.

Meanwhile downstairs, Emily, Vicki, and Allison arrive and are talking to Camryn about Jakes funeral. “Oh sweetheart, I’m sorry this has happened to you! If you should need a break from all this, the children can surely stay with us for a while,” Vicki offers. Camryn blinks back the tears that are starting to flood her eyes and says, “Thanks Mom, but that won’t be necessary. We all need to stick together as a family, it’s the only way we can overcome this tragedy.” Emily nods in agreement and says, “The death of my son is a tragic moment, but he will be remembered by everyone for his braveness. The press has already marked him as a hero. However, I just as yourself have to be strong for my husband and the other children at home. Christian is not taking this well at all, but he has all of us to help him through this. Camryn, I have known you since you were very little, and have always loved you as if you were my very own, and if you should need anything at all please don’t hesitate to call us.” 

Camryn smiles slightly before replying, “Thank you so much Mrs. Parker. You and your family have been nothing but very kind throughout the years, and I’m very grateful to have you in my life. If we should need anything, you and my mother will be the first to know. Thank you all for coming, it means so much to me and the children. If you don’t mind, I have so much to do in the morning, and I’m afraid I need my rest as well.” “Of course we don’t mind honey. We’re sharing a hotel suite just in the center of town. Would you like us to come with you to the funeral home to help with the preparations?” Emily asks. “I would love to have you all there with me. This is still quite a shock to us, and frankly I just don’t know if I can do this myself,” Camryn replies as she cuffs her face with her hands. Vicki raises a brow and replies, “Well then it’s settled! We’ll all meet here, say at ten o’clock?”  Everyone then agrees to meet at the said time, and retires to the hotel so Camryn and the children can get some rest.

Introducing Jake and Camryn Parker

Jake Parker had liked Camryn for a long time, and finally had the courage to ask her to be his girlfriend.

Of course she admitted that she had liked him too, but was afraid of being hurt, so she never told him of her feelings for him. After they have a long talk and a whole bunch of convincing, Camryn agreed to be his girlfriend, and they share their first kiss. 

A few years later, Camryn and Jake marry. It’s like a dream come true for the two, as if they’re living inside of a fairy tale world. The wedding was beautiful. Lavender flowers laid about the aisle as she walked down the aisle, which leads to her one true love. 

The priest then announces Jake and Camryn as husband and wife, and tells Jake that he may kiss his bride. He then gently places his arms around Camryn, and they share their first kiss as Mr. and Mrs. Parker. As their passion grows, confettie falls from the wedding arch, and all of their friends and family cheer them on and shout, “Congratulations!”

In just a few months after their honeymoon, Jake and Camryn are expecting their first baby. “I’m so happy to have you in my life. Each and everyday has been a blessing since I had found you! Now you’re having my son! Thank you so much for being my wife, the most gorgeous pregnant woman I had ever feasted eyes on! I love you,” he told her as he rubs her growing belly. 

Nine long months later……

Camryn’s contractions start at midnight, and they finally arrive at the hospital. “Look at that coward behind me! You would think he’s the one in labor and the one having this baby! Heck he even had the nerve to grab my overnight bags, rushed out of the house, and drove all the way to the hospital without me! He’s lucky that when he came back for me that I didn’t slap the shit out of him!” Camryn thinks to herself. 

Jake then follows me through the hospital doors and checks me in, which they get me into a room on the O.B floor right away. The nurse brings me a hospital gown, and asks me to put it on, and Jake helps me slip into it before the doctor enters the room.

The nurse comes back into the room with a wheelchair, and takes me down to the delivery room right away. “Everything will be just fine Mrs. Parker, your husband will be with you in just a moment.” She informs her. Just then Doctor Newman enters the room to see how far I have dilated. “Well I would say this baby really wants out of there for you are dilated to 10cm! I need you to start pushing!” He instructs.

Forty five minutes later……

“Alright Mrs. Parker, just one last push and your little boy will take his first look at the world!” Dr. Newman says. Camryn gives one last agonizing push, and a tiny cry comes from a tiny baby…… “It’s a girl!” Doctor Newman shouts excitedly. Tired and worn out Camryn says, “A girl? We were supposed to be having a boy?” Suddenly another sharp pain tears through Camryn’s abdomen. She then takes a deep breath and says, “Why am I still in pain? I shouldn’t be feeling anymore pain, should I?” she fearfully asks. Doctor Newman takes another look at the monitor and replies, “Goodness me! Push! Push! It’s another baby!”  Jake comes back into the room and says, “What in the world! Another baby? How on earth did this happen?” “My guess would be the same way she got pregnant with your daughter Mr. Parker! Your wife needs you, so could you please just get over there by her side and let me do my job!” The Doctor instructs.

A few hours later, Jake and Camryn welcome Faith and Adam Parker into the world! “Happy birthday my sweet little babies! Mommy and Daddy loves you both so very much!” she tells them as she kisses them on their rosie little cheeks, and places them in their tiny bassinets. 

Within a few weeks and alot of hard work, Camryn and Jake re-paint, buy an extra dresser, and get an extra bassinet for little Faith. It’s been a great year for Jake and Camryn.

Family Tree

This is Emily (Jake’s mother) and Christian Parker, (Jake’s father.)

Jake and Camryn Parker.

Nicolas Parker (Jake’s older brother)

Allison Parker. (Jake’s little sister)

Kevin Parker (Jake’s much younger brother)

Carrie Parker (Jake’s baby sister, and Morgan’s Twin Sister)

Morgan Parker (Jake’s second baby sister, and Carrie’s twin sister)

 The Valentine Family (Camry’s family tree)

Harrison Saddler (Camryn’s father)

Vicki Saddler (Camryn’s step mother)

Steven Saddler (Camryn’s half brother)

Brianna Saddler (Camryn’s half sister)

 

Jake and Camryn’s children

Faith Parker

Adam Parker

Jake’s family tree

Camryn’s family tree

For some reason it shows one of Jake’s sisters as their daughters, but really she’s not. This is the best I have, so I hope it’s alright 🙂