Chapter Five

Mark slowly began to stir from the slumber that had overtaking him. His senses coming alive, he could feel the warm naked body, spooned in next to his won. He opened his eyes and without moving, looked down at the sleeping Jacqueline.

He let a smile etched across his face, as his mind went back to the night’s events. It had been a hell of a night, as they made love and rested. Only to wake and make more love. They just couldn’t get enough of each other.

He brushed her hair from her face and planted a light kiss on cheek. His hand moved down to touch her firm breast and tweak the nipple. She let out a small moaned and began to stir. His hand moved down her length, coming to her leg and parted them. His now evident erection, eased into her moist warm core. She groaned with pleasure, coming fully awake.

“Hmmm, Mark! You’re a hungry beast!” She told him as her body responded to his thrush.

“Only for your sweetness!” He said, getting into the sensation surrounding his member. Jacqueline moved away, causing him to exit her. He looked at her confused. She turned around facing him and moved up on him, saddling him like a horse.

He let out a huge groan, as she came down on him, riding him hard and steady. His hips rose to the occasion. They continued with this, until she felt him extend as far as he could and release everything into her like a flash flood.

She screamed out, unable to contain her pleasure any longer. She fell upon his chest, weaken. His arms moved around her and held her dearly. She had given him so much in such a little time. He will always remember this. The drifted off to sleep, drained.

Mark woke to find Jacqueline no longer at his side. He sat up in bed and searched the room. His eyes fell on the bathroom door, hearing the shower going. He swung the covers off and left the bed for the bathroom. he wanted one more round before they had to leave for the next show.

His hand touched the knob to turn it and found it locked. He shingled the knob, just to make sure. He stepped back and thought. She did this on purpose, he thought. Just at that moment the shower stopped. he moved back to the bed and got back under the covers and fake sleeping. The door came open and she walked out with a towel wrapped around her.

She looked over at Mark, whose eyes were closed. She sat down and stared at him. She had always had a crush on him from the first time they were introduced. But she didn’t dare do anything to encourage it as he was married at the time, but going through a divorce. She still didn’t want to get involved, as she would always fill like a rebound.

“Hey babe!” His deep voice filled the room, bringing her out of her thoughts. She looked over to him propped up on his arm, staring at her. His eyes deep green with passion and long red mane haphazardly on his head.

“Hey yourself! Looks like you had a hard night!” She teased. He shook his head and laughed.

“And morning. I was hoping to join you in the shower, but it seems there was a problem with the door being lock!” His eyebrows rose. She let out a small chuckle.

“Yes. I figured you would come in and try to get another one in.” She said and stood, pulling the towel off. He fell back in the bed. He hadn’t seen her like this. She came over to the bed, as another round of love making began.

Chapter Six

Jacqueline left Mark in his room. She had to pack and get to the next show. She found herself smiling, as she played back their night of passion. It had been a long time and the wait was worth it. They both agreed it would be better to keep this on the download. They would sneak away whenever they could. They kept this up until one day Mark came to her.

“I have to tell you something.” He said, walking back and forth. She had been with him enough to know this wasn’t going to be good.

“Sure!” She said and sat down. He came over to her and looked her deep in the eyes.

“I want to let you know, you have given me so much these last few months. I was down and you lifted me.” He started, taking her small had into his own. Jacqueline let out a long breath. No not good at all.

“But.....” She said. He looked away from her. He couldn’t bare to see what he was doing to her.

“I’m going back to my wife. She called me the other night. She said one of the kids were sick. I had to go. I went over to see what was going. He had been calling for me. I stayed the night and.” He trailed off. Jacqueline pulled her hand out of his and stood to her feet. She walked over to the hotel window and stared out.

“And you slept with her.” She ended it. She could hear him come to his feet and walking over to her. She lifted her hand and shook her head. He stopped.

“Go Mark. Just leave please.” She said, her voice trying to sound strong.

“Jackie! I’m sorry.” He said. She shook her head again.

“No, I’m sorry. You never promised me a damn thing. You have nothing to be sorry about. I would like to be alone please.” She told him.

He went to reached for her, but thought better. He turned and walked out the door. She heard it closed, turned and walking over to her bed, threw herself on it. Tears flowing from her tiny body like a waterfall. Little did he know, she had some news of her own. She was pregnant.

Jacqueline sat in her hotel room for a long time after Mark dropped the bombshell on her. She wiped the tears from her eyes, thinking about what a fool she had been. How could she had allowed herself to get sucked in like that.

Rising to her feet, she walked away from the window she had been staring out for a couple of hours. Looking down at her watch, realized that time had pass by very quickly and the show would be starting soon.

She wasn’t up to it, even though she wasn’t going to be in any storylines or matches at this point in time. The push of Sable had went over well. Her job had been done. She took a seat on the side of the bed and picked up the phone, dialed a number. She had made a very important decision.

“Hello, Mr. McMahon? I need to talk with you. I’m going to need some time off. She told him, then listened to his response. As he finished, she hung the phone up and grabbed up her things and left the hotel for the arena.

Jacqueline made her way through the backstage, in search of Mr. McMahon’s office. She turned down a hallway and looking at each door found the one she needed. She stood poised at the door for a few moments, trying to gather the nerves for the meeting.

Suddenly it opened. There she stood face to face with Mark. She muttered something, turning her head away from him. He leaned against the door and gesture with his hand for her to come in. She stood back to allow him to come out, but he wouldn’t budge. Seeing that he was going to be stubborn she walked pass him not saying a word. Mark looked over to her.

“Hello Jackie.” He spoke to her. She never turned to look at him.

“Hello Mark.” She replied, taking a seat in front of Vince’s desk. He observed the interaction of the two and knew immediately something had occurred between them. Mark turned away from her and walked out the door. Her eyes went to the corners and listened to the door close. Then looked at a suspicious Vince.

“Alright! Mind telling me what that was all about?” Vince asked. She couldn’t contain all that was bottled up in her. And seeing Mark so soon after the news, didn’t help the situation much either.

She broke down and began to sob uncontrollably. Vince rushed from behind his desk, grabbing a box of tissue and came to sit on the front of the desk. He handed her the box, wondering what was so bad to make this strong woman break.

“Jackie, what’s wrong?” he asked, as she pulled a tissue from the box, and wiped her eyes.

“I did something so stupid. And now there is repercussions.” She told him, blowing her nose.

“Okay! Tell me. You know you can tell me anything and I will do whatever it is within my power to help you out.” he reassured her. She looked up at him with beautiful sad eyes.

“I know. I’ve been with someone for the last several months and now I’m pregnant.” She told him and looked at his face for some reaction. Vince rose from the desk and walked away, thinking.

“What are you going to do about it?” he asked, still looking away. She came ot her feet and walked in front of him. His eyes fell on her.

“I’m not sure. I need some time away from all of this to think. I don’t want to make a wrong decision.” She said, shaking her head and looking around.

“The father. What does he say?” Vince asked. Jacqueline stiffened like a board. He gave her that look he does so often.

“If you don’t mind. I rather not have him involved or reveal him.” She said. Vince shook his head and walked away from her, then sat down behind his desk. Jacqueline came over and took her seat in the chair.

“It’s okay, Jackie. I think I know who he is and why you have made the decision to exclude him out. But if you choose to have this baby and not inform him. It’ll come back to bite you in the end.” He warned her. She took in a deep breath and let it out.

“Duly warned. Now may I have the leave I asked?” She changed the subject. Vince pulled out a ledger and looked it over. Then he looked back up to Jacqueline.

“Okay! Take as long as you want. I hope everything works out for you.” She nodded and they came to agreement on a leave time.

She stood to her feet and thanked. He came from behind his desk, wrapped his arms around her and gave her a huge hug. He had much respect for her. She was one of or was the best women wrestlers he had. She had never given him an ounce of trouble, doing whatever was asked of her.

She turned and walked out of his office, down the corridors and made her way out of the arena. Heading for the garage. She never spotted the person watching her every movement, looking for a chance to talk to her.

She found her car and moved into it, sitting for a long while. Holding back the tears that wanted to flow. She would miss being there. But she had more important things to attend to.

Mark walked up to the entrance of the garage and watched her as she entered her car, sitting there for some time. He knew she was hurting bad. All he wanted to do is take her in his arms and comfort her. He was now rethinking this going back to his wife thing. Maybe later when she came back they could talk.

She finally gathered herself and turned on the car. She backed out of the parking slot and drove through the garage, heading out to the streets. She thought she got a glimpse of a familiar figure standing in the entrance way. But with a second look, saw nothing there. She moved out onto the streets and sped away.

Mark moved back into the entrance, not wanting her to see him following her. He felt he would catch up with her later at her hotel room. He turned had headed back to his dressing room. There was a buzz going on backstage and made it’s way to him.

Jacqueline had left the WWF for a undetermined length of time. He didn’t say anything a word when he heard this. He continued on to his dressing room, figuring he was the reason she had left.

After the show, he went to her hotel room. A maid was cleaning it out. He asked if it was still occupied and the housekeeper informed him it wasn’t. He went into his room and tried to call her cell phone.

The message: ‘The number you wish to reach, is no longer in service.’

Mark hung the phone up and sat in the dark for a long time. He realized he had made a decision he would have to live with for some time.

Over the next few months before Mark was to get marry, Jacqueline and him hardly was on the same show at any given time. Her use in the WWE was limited. By her request. She finally was asked to do a new reality show they had come up with.

Called Tough Enough. She would train people, who had no previous wrestling experience. She saw this, as a good way not to have to see Mark for some time. He was making it quite difficult.

Mark’s wedding day came. Everyone who was someone of the wrestling community was there. Except for Jacqueline. She was invited, but thought it was best she wasn’t there. She watched one night after their honeymoon, he returned with her name collared on his throat.

‘He must be in love.’ She nodded and thought to herself. That had to be painful.

Then the biggest event in history happened. Ted Turner secretly sold WCW to Vince McMahon. And ECW failed through due to bad management. Vince also picked them up. She thought this was a great idea. It would add more towns to their schedule and she would get to see old friends. Booker T for one.

But the whole invasion thing didn’t go off as planned. Many wrestlers lost their jobs. The ones who remain became the jobbers for the WWE. Booker T was stripped of his US title and it given to another wrestler. Rock was booked to take his champion title also. It was a bad time for the WCW wrestlers.

Mark brought his wife onto the scene. Which she thought was strange, as he was always private. Then she remembered him making this big speech, in the ring and tear filled eyes. About how he kept his family private and out of the business.

Now that she looked back on it. He was giving a foretelling of her. She heard rumors that his wife had got cozy with Stephanie and talked her into getting her a spot on the show. Mark being who he was, wanted her to be happy and reluctantly gave in to her.

She watched as Austin and Triple HHH started the storyline, but was later pulled from it. The officials felt it wouldn’t take and didn’t want their tops stars to be involved. And take it didn’t. It started out okay, giving Mark a good feud with DDP.

But it became a squash after squash for DDP. Even to the point they made him look like a pervert. She felt for Kim. She knew her well and knew this was not going over well with her. The push to make DDP as an credible heel came to being a push to get her over with the crowd, which didn’t.

They weren’t use to seeing the Deadman as they knew him needed anyone, less alone his petite wife coming in to save him from a beat down. And at the time she was the only female being used on the show. With Debra being shown with Austin or Stephanie.

She also heard rumors of an affair his wife was having with some young wrestler who was later sent down to OVW for some more training. Ironic. The whole thing flopped and left him with months of Vince screwing him over.

Then they had this shoot for a possible Diva weekly show. Sex on the Beach. Mark’s wife was invited to attend. Word got back she was an handful. She had o have take after take done to make sure some of things she said wouldn’t make it to TV. One thing that she said, made Jacqueline laugh.

‘It was quick.’ His wife told of an encounter they had in a public bathroom at a indoor arena football game. Mark has never been quick with her, Jacqueline thought.

With that segment of his career passed. Jacqueline left Tough Enough, not electing to do it another reason. She was paired with APA, Bradshaw and Farooq. She found herself on the same show as Mark. She hoped they would never run into each other.

She was grateful his wife was no longer on the show. Not that she had anything against her, just she felt it would be awkward to look the woman face to face, knowing what she knew about Mark.

She entered the building and was going to her dressing room. She turned the corner and bumped into a brick wall, falling on her backside with a hard thump. She tried to gather herself and looked up into Mark’s face.

“Jackie!” He said, extending his hand to her. She reached up and place her tiny hand into his own. He gave a gently tug and she was up.

“Thanks!” She said and began to pick up her bag that had fallen.

“As always. It’s good to see you.” He told her and leaned against the wall with his arms crossed over his chest. Jacqueline looked at him and smiled, nodding.

“It’s good to see you too, Mark.” She said. And it was true. She had heard he was not very happy with the way things were going backstage. He was getting a lot of heat, from the other wrestlers about him using his clout too many times.

And the thing with DDP and the busted storyline. Not to mention him trying to help out his friend Brian, who was part of Kronik. They screwed him big time. It was said, the night after the messed up match Mark and Glenn had with the two Brians. They were asked to go down to OVW for more training.

But the other Brian one refused, walking away. Mark‘s friend went down but was later fired due to him not doing what was asked. This made Mark look really bad. Jacqueline felt he needed a friend.

“How have you been?” He asked, staring at her. She brought back some great memories. A time when he felt safe. And a part from everything else.

“I’ve been fine Mark. Thank you for asking. How have you been?” She asked and watched inhale deeply, letting it out just as hard. He looked off into the distance, not anywhere in particular.

“Okay I guess. Could be better.” He said. She gave him a intense looked, reading him well.

“Stay strong Mark! You’ll get through this.” She encouraged him. His eyes fell on her. He could feel those old feelings rising form a depth in his heart. She caught it and made her uncomfortable.

“I better go now. Take care.” She said and darted pass him before he could say anything. She made it to her dressing room and opened the door. She was inside like a flash. She leaned against the door, breathing heavy.

Damn! She thought. Those old feeling were resurfacing.

At that moment, the door pushed open and she ran from it, turning to se who this intruder could be. Mark entered and closed the door behind him. Jacqueline looked at him dumbfounded. What the hell was wrong with him. He came towards her and \backe dher against the wall capturing her lips wiht him mouth. She struggled to free herself, but he was toopowerful. He took her breath away as he kissed her hard and deep, pressinghis body into hers. She felt eveything they had shared and enied flow btweenthem and filled the room. It was evident what they once shared had been dormant, but was now coming alive.

“No Mark! Please!” She pushed him away. Causing him to hold her at arms length against the wall.

“Jackie please!” He pleaded. She shook her head.

“This isn’t right. And you know it. There’s nothing you can give me, but heartache. And I’ve been there. Please let me go and leave.” She said, looking away from him.

Mark stared at her for a few moments, holding her against the wall. Then he finally lowered her to the ground. She quickly walked away from him and kept her back to him. He backed away towards the door, staring at the wall.

That decision he made so long ago will keep coming back to haunt him. Jacqueline heard the door open and closed as he left her. She began to cry. This was getting old. Maybe she needed to take time away.

Chapter Nine

Jacqueline left the WWE on a leave for a few months. She called Vince and told him she was ready to make her return. He gave her the okay. Wrestlemania had come and gone! She was walking in the back when she came up on Dawn Marie and Torrie Wilson. They were going over some last minutes rehearsal for a segment. So she thought.

“Hi Jackie. How are you?” Dawn turned to her as she walked up to them.

“I’m doing just great thank you.” Jackie smiled and looked over to Torrie.

“Hi Jackie!” She smiled.

“Hi Torrie. You too ready for your match?” She asked them. They looked at each other and shrugged their shoulders.

“I don’t know. Maybe you could go over some pointers for us?” Dawn asked her.

“Sure. Let me go change into my gear.” She told them, walking away and towards her dressing room.

She opened the door and walked in, tossing her bag over on the couch. She sat down next to it and began to removed her shoes when she got this uneasy feeling. She looked up to see Mark exiting her shower. She glared at him.

“Is this how it’s going to be? What am I going to have to do, to make you leave me alone? Leave the damn company?” She stared him down. He raised his hands up.

“No! You don’t have to leave the damn company.” He slurred his words. Jackie gave him a intense looked. Something wasn’t right.

“Mark? What is wrong with you?” She rose to her feet and looked at him closely.

“Nothing is wrong. Everything is right with the world.” He began to sway back and forth. Jacqueline became alarmed. If Vince sees this he will be in deep shit. She thought to herself.

“Damn Mark! You’ve been drinking! You‘re drunk!” She whispered and walked up to him. he looked down at the tiny being in front of him and wondered how do things get that small?

“I pretest. I’m not drunk. I’m as sober as you. And what are you? I don’t ever remember seeing anything so small. OR are you way down there? Do you want me to come down there with you?” He began to ramble on.

All the while, Jacqueline was leading him into the shower. She shoved him against the wall. He took this as a freak on time and began pawing at her. She leaned in and turned on the cold water.

“HEY!” He said and fled from the icy cold water, nearly bowling Jacqueline over and stumbled out of the shower. Dripping wet, he went over to the couch and fell like a mighty oak tree.

“Great!” Jacqueline said, pulling out her bag just under him and went over to the bench to dress. She went to find Bradshaw and Farooq. They were good friends of his. They could take care of this discreetly.

Afterwards she headed down to the ring. Dawn, Torrie and Stacy were talking. They never saw her come up.

“Yeah! I heard he was going to leave, so she got pregnant to keep him.” Stacy told the other two.

“Well, she shouldn’t have dissed him so bad on TV. He bent over backwards to get her in.” Torrie said.

“Well, he’s been paying for it every since. Poor guy. He’s been drinking a lot lately. I hope he doesn’t bottom out.” Dawn said, looking very deep in thought. They all nodded their heads.

“What are you girls talking about? Or should I say, who are you gossiping about? No never mind. I don’t want to know. Now lets get to practicing.” She said and jumped up on the mat, moving into the ring.

“Oh, come on Jackie. You’re not the least interested in who we’re talking about?“ Dawn was the first to come in and stare at Jacqueline.

“Yeah! He’s a BIG name with just as much problems.” Torrie was the next to come in and face Jacqueline.

“Look Ladies! Either you except my help without the rumors or I go back to my dressing room.” Jacqueline stared from one to the other.

Stacy came in last, but not in ring attire. Jacqueline never has liked her. She was an arrogant tart. She knew she was up to something.

Chapter Eleven

Dawn stared at Jacqueline stunned. She had just found out Jacqueline had an affair with Mark a while back and there was a baby. She just assumed the baby had died or something other, since Jacqueline never spoke about it. But now she has given her a little tibit. The baby may be alive.

“I just assumed since you haven’t told him and I never hear you mention a child. I just assumed.” She shrugged her shoulders.

“No! The baby is live and well.” Jacqueline admitted. Dawn looked around to make sure no one was near.

“I don’t understand. Why wouldn’t you tell him he has a child?” Dawn asked. Jacqueline looked around to make sure the were alone.

“I went on leave to abort the baby. Then lying there, I knew I couldn’t get rid of my baby. And I was so right. Whenever I take my leaves, it’s to spend with him.” She told her. Dawn gasped with joy.

“He?” She said. Jacqueline smiled, nodding her head.

“What’s his name?” Dawn asked. Jacqueline took Dawn to her dressing room. She dug around in her bag for her wallet. When she found it, pulled out pictures. Dawn oohed and aaahed.

“Jackie he is so adorable.” Dawn told her. Jacqueline grinned from cheek to cheek. Of all her accomplishments, he was the greatest of them all.

“His name is Marcus Jackson Moore.” She told her.

“That’s a mouth full. But has a nice ring to it. I gather Marcus is for Mark.” Dawn said. Jacqueline just looked at her son’s picture. Dawn walked over to her and gave her a long hug. Then walked out of the room to give her some privacy.

She never saw the tall thin Diva as she came out from a hiding place she had hid when she heard Dawn coming out of Jacqueline’s dressing room. She had followed the two girls and ease dropped on their conversation. She was surprised that the rumors were true. Mark fathered a baby with Jackie. And the best part of it all. He doesn’t know.

How old would that make the child? She thought. About 3 or 4 years old. Stacy knew she had to tell Mark. But she had to get some proof. She knew Jackie would be accompanying APA later that night.

She would go in and steal a picture and later figure out where and when exactly did she have the baby. Mark would be forever grateful. And who knows maybe he could use his clout for her as he has others. She quickly walked away until later.

That night Jacqueline went down to the ring with the APA. While she was there, Stacy went into room, searching for the pictures she had shown Dawn. She went through Jacqueline’s bag, found the wallet and pictures. She found one that would help her cause. Then she slipped out without being notice. So she thought.

“Does Jackie know you were in her room?” Mark asked, standing in front of her as she made her retreat. Stacy took a couple of steps back. Nodding her head and trying to still her beating heart.

“Yes, we were talking earlier about something. I told her I would leave what she wanted in her room as soon as I found it. I did, but she’s out there and I have to go.” She stumbled over the words of the lie she was giving him. She wanted to tell him but now was not the right time. Mark glared at her for a few moments.

“When did Jackie become friends with the likes of you?” He asked, knowing how much Jacqueline despised gossipers and just plain trouble makers.

“Well, if you mean bosom buddies, then no. We aren’t there yet. But we’re cordial.” Stacy told him and looked pass him to see Jacqueline coming with the APA.

“Look Mark! I really must go! Talk to you later.” She said, turned and rushed away. Mark heard familiar voices coming from behind him and turned towards them. Jacqueline and APA came upon Mark. Jacqueline tried to contain herself, still feeling the effects of what happened earlier.

“Feeling better?” Bradshaw asked as the two men greeted Mark.

“Yeah, much. And thank you. I owe you.” Mark told them.

“No problem. You’d done the same for us.” Farooq said.

“But the bigger thanks go to Jackie. She was the one who came and asked us to help you.” Farooq told him. Mark’s eyes fell on her as she looked away. It was getting harder and harder not to tell him of his son. Each time she look into her son’s face, she sees Mark. His smile, his red head. And the killer of all. His green eyes.

“Thank you Jackie. I’m forever in your debt. Anytime or anything.” He told her. She looked back at him, seeing what he meant.

“Don’t worry about it Mark. What was I suppose to do? Leave you in a drunken stuper? We’re even.” She said and walked pass him into her dressing room. Mark went to follow her, but the Bradshaw caught his arm.

“If you really want to repay us. How about a round of beers?” He asked him. Mark looked at him and then back to Jacqueline’s door.

“Yeah! Why not?” He said and the three men made plans to meet up later.

Stacy had been walking around in her hotel room, waiting for the fallout. She knew Mark should have told Jackie by now. When nothing happened, she figured he didn’t. She held the picture of Jacqueline’s child in her hands, staring at it.

She would have to find out where Jacqueline went when she left for her leave back in 99’. She decided to call a private investigator friend. She called and agreed to meet him at a designated place. She would give him the picture. Then she’ll give Mark all of the evidence, when she tells him he has a son.

Chapter Twelve

Jacqueline was off on a vacation. She decided to spend some time with her son, Marcus. She would watch both RAW and Smackdown to keep up with what was going on.

On Smackdown they had put through Mark some storyline, where some woman from his past popped up and accused him of sleeping with her or something in that manner. Jacqueline just laugh at the creativity of the writers.

And on RAW they were taking Kane through something similar but with some dead girl name Katie Vick. These stories lasted until the next PPV. She was glad they weren’t using her as much. She could see herself jobbing or doing something she didn‘t like.

She was playing with her son, one night. She enjoyed her time away from the WWE. It put things in perspective. She use to get so caught up with the way she was being used and how things went. The WWE was her life, but now Marcus is.

She was just putting him to bed, when the phone rung. It was Dawn Marie. She had some news for Jacqueline, that she wanted her to hear before it got out. Jacqueline listened carefully then hung the phone up. Mark’s wife had their baby. A little girl!

Jacqueline sat with the phone in her hand for a while. It wasn’t like she didn’t know. But it actually happening just made it surreal. She came to herself and sat the receiver in its cradle. She walked over to where Marcus laid sleeping like a baby. Her baby, no denying that.

“Momma is always going to take care of you, no matter what.” She told him, gently brushing his cheek with the back of her hand. She never knew a person could love so much, as she loved him.

Stacy sat in her hotel room, one night after the show. She had gotten a call from her private eye friend. After months of searching he got an lead and followed it. It paid off. With what Stacy was paying he felt he should hand deliver them himself. She quickly jumped to her feet and ran to the door, when she heard the first knock. Swinging the door opened and pulling him inside, she checked to make sure no one saw him come in.

“Okay! What do you got?” She said, closing the door and turning to him. He smiled and taunted her.

“I wouldn’t mind something to drink.” He said, sitting down on the couch. Stacy stared at him for a long while, then moved to the small refrigerator and pulled out a small bottle, handing it to him. Then she took a seat in a chair across from him and crossed her leg over the other, then sat back and waited for the information.

“Sure you don’t want to join me?” He asked. She shook her head.

“No! Just give me the information.” She said coolly. He snapped the top of the bottle and looked around for something, then turned to Stacy.

“What no glass?” He toyed with her. Stacy eyebrows lifted, as she stared daggers into him.

“No, I don’t want to drink with you. No, there are not glasses coming your way. Yes, you will give me the damn information I paid you. Or as in the famous word of the person I so desire to inform said: “Before I go Medieval on your ass.” She leaned in tired of this game. He looked at her and smirked.

“Okay, okay! I was just trying to make this special, as you will see when I give you the information. Which will be now.” He said, taking a drink from the bottle and sitting it down on the coffee table in front of him, then grabbing his briefcase. Stacy watched impatiently as he pulled papers from it and handed them to her.

“If you have any questions, just asked.” He said taking the bottle from the table and sipping more of its contents. Stacy stood to her feet, scanning though one page after another. She looked at the last page and nearly jumped out of her skin for glee.

“There you go.” She said and hugged the papers to her breasts. The private detective, stared wishing it was his head buried there.

“Thank you so much. Everything I need is here. Mark will be eternally grateful to me. I know how he is about his children. And what Jackie did was unthinkable.” Stacy told him. He stood to his feet and smiled.

“What you’re doing has nothing to do with friendship or what’s right. So don’t play that with me. I know you’re hoping this will help you out in the long run. I just hope that child isn’t the one to get hurt through all of this.” He told her and walked pass her out the door.

Jacqueline was cleaning out her bag. She was going to be going back on the road soon and wanted to replace some things she always carried with others. That’s when she began to look at the pictures she loved to carry of Marcus. And discovered one was missing.

“Where in the world could that picture be?” She asked herself, dumping everything in the bag on the bed. It was no where to be found. She went back to the last time she saw it, but remember she put it back. She shook her head puzzled.

The next night, Stacy went in search of Mark. She wanted to give him the information she had gather. She was so happy to finally put it to Jackie. he had come back from his leave. And was sitting in his dressing room when he heard the knock at his door.

“Yeah!” he called, lacing his boots.

“Mark! It’s me Stacy.” She called to him. Mark stopped what he was doing and went to answer the door. He didn’t like Stacy as he stared down on her after opening the door. She looked at him wedge in between the door and door post.

“I have some vital information that I think you should know.” She started. Mark raised his eyebrows.

“Now Stacy. What is it you have that I would want to know?” He knew she was the biggest gossiper the WWE had. Stacy pulled out a picture and handed it to him. Mark looked at it for a moment then up to Stacy.

“What is that?” He asked, finally taking it in his hand and staring at it. A beautiful brown skinned boy. Head full of red hair and the clearest green eyes had ever seen.

“Your son!” Stacy said and watched Marks eyes grow a few sizes larger, while his jaw fell.

Chapter Fourteen

“That’s it in a nutshell.” Stacy explained to Dawn, after her encounter with Mark.

“No, you poor excuse for a human being. This is it in a nutshell.” Dawn pulled her arm back and let it rip across Stacy’s face. Dawn quickly turned away from her and race through the halls, heading for Mark’s dressing room. Stacy stood stunned, rubbing the side of her face. This just wasn’t her day.

“Where is Mark?” Vince yelled. He needed to go over something with Mark before he did his match for the night. Dawn was just coming around the corner, when she heard Vince asking for him.

“I saw him about half an hour ago. He looked like he was in an hurry.” One of the staff told him.

“Okay! Where did you see him?” He asked, staring at the person as if he was annoyed.

“I saw him heading for the garage.” They told him.

“Yeah. He left on his bike. Boy did he peel out of there.” Another employee came up and got into the conversation. Vince’s head slowly turned to the other and stared long and hard. Then he turned and walked away from them both.

Dawn thought for a moment. She knew she had to warn Jackie. She didn’t want her being surprised. She ran to her dressing room and pulled out her cell phone. She dialed a number and waited as it rung.

Mark cruised down the empty road, feeling the wind on his face. He had been riding for length of time. How long? he didn’t know. Nor did he care. Nothing matter now, but what kept running through his head. He had a son.

How could Jackie had kept something so important from him continued to rattle his brain. Yeah, he tried to rationalized she was hurt and all. But she had many times to tell him over the last three years or so.

“Jackie! Would it had hurt to come to me and tell me? A little: ‘Oh, by the way Mark. We have a son!’ During our many conversations, wouldn’t have hurt.” He said to himself and feeling his anger, put the pedal to the metal. The bike sped up. He knew now where he was destined. Jackie’s!

“Come on Jackie, answer!” Dawn paced back and forth, trying to get Jackie. Warning her of what Stacy had done. The answering machine came on. She started to leave a message, but closed the phone. This isn’t something you blurt out on the phone.

‘Hey Jackie, Stacy told Mark about your son and he may be on his way over there.’ Yeah, right! She just hoped Mark wasn’t going where she thought.

“Hello?” Jackie called into the phone, only to set the receiver back in it’s cradle. She had just come in from the store and heard it ringing. She raced over to it and answered it just as it hung up.

“I guess they’ll call back.” She said and walked out into the garage, gathered her son and came into the house. She sat him down and went back out to the garage to finished unloading her groceries.

“Okay Markie. What would you like to do for fun?” She asked, finished with putting everything up.

“Out side!” He said and bolted to the back door. Jacqueline laughed and went over to where her son stood at the double door sliding doors. She unlocked it and he took off into the back yard and over to his play area she had made exclusively for him.

Jacqueline took a seat on the ground under a tree and watched him play. She sighed. He was her world. She just fathom life without him. He looked up and saw her staring at him. He got that big smile over his face and waved to her. She waved back.

After a while, Marcus walked over to his mother and sat down in her lap. She pulled him close to her, holding him tightly. Soon they fall into a restful sleep under the tree. In the distance, a low rumble could be heard. A storm was stirring. But they never heard it, nor the phone ringing and heard the voice coming through the answering machine.

“Okay Jackie! I didn’t want to do this, but you give me no choice. Stacy told Mark about............................” The answering machine stopped. Dawn paused, staring into her cell phone. She put it back to her ear, hearing the dial tone.

“What the......” She said and dialed her number again. This time she got a busy signal. Suddenly Dawn got this sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach.

Chapter Fifteen

Some point in time, during her nap. Jacqueline felt as if she were floating in air, then felt the silky soft smooth ground under her as she touched, being brought down. Now sometime later, she had no idea. She began to stir in her deep sleep.

She turned over unto her side and snuggled into the fluffed pillow. Then her mind slowly came out of the half sleep and awake stage. Her eyes shot open and sat straight up in her bed.

She looked around, seeing she was in her room and in her bed. How did she get there? Then her mind raced to one thing. Her son, Marcus. She jumped out of her bed and ran out of the room, to Marcus’. She came to a screeching halt and flipped on the light. It was early night. She stared over to his bed. He wasn’t in it and it was untouched.

Then panic took over!

She race through down the hall, looking for him. The last thing she remember was them under the tree in the backyard, falling asleep. How could she had got in the house and left her son outside? She came into the living room. She stopped short, as her eyes fell on something she could hardly believe.

Her eyes enlarged, seeing Marcus laying in the arms of Mark. They were on the sofa, before the fireplace. Relaxed and content. Mark’s head rose up, his eyes met a stunned Jacqueline. She stood there for how long she didn’t know. She was speechless.

“Hello Jackie!” Mark’s voice rumbled across the room.

Marcus stirred a little. Mark rose and walked towards Jacqueline. She backed out of his way, allowing him to carry Marcus to his room. She followed close behind, standing in the doorway and watched Mark lay him gently in his bed. Marcus rolled over on his side and went deeper into his sleep. Mark covered him with his blanket.

Mark stared down at him for a few moments. Then looked over to Jacqueline. She could see the anger, but more hurt than anything in his eyes. He came towards her once again. She moved out of his way, as he passed by her and said nothing. She looked at Marcus resting, then closed his door.

She quickly rushed to join Mark. He had reclaimed his seat in front of the fireplace. She hesitantly walked in the room and sat in a chair next to the sofa. Mark didn’t say anything, he just stared into the fireplace. This time it was Jacqueline who broke the silence.

“How did you find out?” Was the only thing she could think to say. Mark’s head lazily turned towards her, his eyes nearly like slits.

“Not by you!” His voice low and calm. Jacqueline felt a chill run up and down her spine. She had never been on this end of his anger.

“Then who? Oh, either Dawn or Vince! I guess.” She said, looking away and feeling betrayed. Mark straighten up.

“You told Vince too? But you couldn’t tell me? The one other person in this world besides you who should have known!” His voice began to get louder. Jacqueline stood to her feet, placing her finger over her mouth, trying to quiet him.

“Shhh! You’ll wake him.” She said, going to the door to see if she could hear him. Mark put his hands on his hips and began to pace. Jacqueline drew in a long breath and exhaled.

“Mark please. Hear me out. I know you’re hurt and angry. But I didn’t know what else to do.” She said. He stopped pacing and glared at her. It hurt her to see him look at her in this manner.

“You didn’t know what else to do? Tell me would have been a good idea. Did I ever withhold anything from you?” He took a step in her direction. She stepped back.

“No. You have always been honest. Maybe that’s why I did what I did.” She said sadly. Mark caught it. Jacqueline walked over to the chair and sat down, head bowed.

“The day you came to me, I had just found out I was pregnant. I was so happy. We were happy. At least I thought we were.” She looked up to him. He looked back at her, blankly.

“But after you told me you were going back to your first wife. I knew I had no choice but terminate the pregnancy. All your wife needed to know is you had a child by someone else. I didn’t want that for you.” She continued. Mark’s anger was slowly fading. He walked over to the sofa silently and took a seat, He wanted to hear her out. More like he needed to hear her out.

“But you didn’t terminate it.” Mark reminded her. She half smiled.

“When I was laying on that table, waiting to have it taken out. The baby fluttered. I put my hand on it and knew. I couldn’t get rid of my baby. So I hid him from everyone but Vince. I told Dawn a few months ago.” She told him.

“Yeah, she tried to warn you I was coming. Check your messages.” He informed her. Jacqueline stared at him confused. She went over to the message machine and push the button. She heard Dawn before she was cut off. Jacqueline turned to him with anger in her eyes.

“Stacy? Stacy told you? How did she......?” She began to ask.

“A few months back, I caught her coming out of your room. She said something about putting something back. I gather she had took this.” Mark produced the picture of their son. Jacqueline walked slowly towards him, staring at the picture. She reached and took it in her hand as if it was Marcus himself. She looked up at him.

“I thought I lost this.” She said softly, looking back down at the picture.

“Jackie! Honey, why didn’t you trust me enough to tell me?” He walked up to her. She looked up at him with tears in her eyes.

“I don’t know. I do know. It’s as I said. I didn’t want any problems with your wife and you. And goes the same for this wife.” She looked at him with great determination. Mark stared down and sighed. What could he do?

Chapter Seventeen

Mark made the trip home. He walked into the house and sat his bags down and headed straight for the bar. A place he found he visited often while home. That’s when she walked in carrying his daughter. He looked over at her and could see she was ready to start something.

“So how was the show?” She said, sitting down on the sofa and sat their daughter down on the floor, who ran immediately to her father. Mark place the drink on the bar counter and picked her up.

“You already know I wasn’t on it. Why do you always play these games?” Mark took a quick glance over to her then back to his daughter. She was beautiful. He couldn’t wait to see Marcus and her together.

“Games? If anyone is playing a game. It would be you.” She retorted. Mark’s eyes shot over to her.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about. But knowing you, you’ll inform me.” He stared at her. She smiled and stood to her feet, walking over to him and leaned on the bar counter.

“There was a well kept secret that was brought to my attention tonight. And I was surprise to know that no many people knew about it. How well you kept this secret.” She started. Mark felt something pass through him. She found out.

“I know where you’re going with this. So spill.” Mark said without emotions. This is how its been between them for a long time.

He had been committed to make it work. No matter how loose she had become. But now things were changing. His daughter is what had become important in this marriage. And in due time, this will come to an end. That’s something he didn’t tell Jackie. He didn’t want her to think it was because of Marcus and her.

“Jackie, Mark? You slept with Jackie?” She began to laugh. Mark glared at her.

“Why not? She’s a beautiful vibrant woman. No one has made me feel as she had or ever will.” His voice in his low deep drawl, as he raised his eyebrows. He saw her body shiver. He struck a cord.

“You listen to me you SOB! If you every go near her again. I’ll take your daughter and leave. You’ll never see her again. Understood!” She yelled at him. Mark felt his daughter squirm in his arms. He went to the door and called for someone. The lady came and he handed her his daughter. Then he turned on his wife with bent up fury.

“Let me straighten you out here. First off, don’t you ever again, threaten me using my daughter. If you want to leave, go! And don’t look back. But my child will stay with me.” He stalked towards her. She stepped back, seeing a side he had never displayed to her. She had did and said what she pleased and he took it. Something had changed.

“Damn girl! You had my heart in your hands and didn’t know what to do with it. Oh, yeah you did. You threw it on the ground and stomped it every chance you got. I tried to keep face and look the other way, defending you to everyone. Even the fans.” He grew silent for a moment, shaking his head. His mind wandering back over the last couple of years. He looked up at her, his eyes were dark slits.

“You never deserve the love I held for you. Now its gone, never to return. And that’s sad, because when you love that deeply and lose it, it hurts like hell. But then you wouldn’t know that. Because you’re incapable of loving that hard.” He said to her and went to leave the room.

“Mark!” She started. He turned to look at her an held up his hand.

“Don’t say a word! You have said enough to last a lifetime.” He told her and walked over to her, standing inches away.

“Now this is what is going to happen. You’re going to play the devoted wife and I the happy husband.” He explained to her. She tired to capture her breath. She had lost control of this situation.

So this won’t be another game we play, I have a son with Jackie. That I know you know. But I’m putting it out there.” he went over to the bar and took the drink he had poured and threw it down. Then he looked at the empty glass.

“Our daughter and my son will know each other. I’ll spend time with them without either mother. That way there will be no confusion where this is going.” He stared at her for a moment, to see if she got it. Then decided he didn’t really care if she did or not, leaving her standing in the midst of the room. She was no longer in control, he was.

Chapter Eighteen

The next morning, Mark was up making arrangements to have his lakeside cabin child proof. He called and got with Jacqueline, telling her what his plans were. She was okay with it. It took a few weeks but it was finally ready for them..

Mark took his daughter and placed her in her car seat. His wife stood glaring at him. It seemed he had changed into this devoted father, every since he found out about his son. She resented it very much and derived a plan while he was away, frollicking with his kids. She watched them drive away and disappear down the road. Then she went back into the house and poured her a drink. Waiting for the right time.

Sometime later, Mark drove up in front of Jacqueline’s house. He took his daughter out of the car seat and carried her up to the door. He was very nervous, not sure if Marcus would go with him. He rung the bell and waited. It flew opened.

“Daddy! Daddy!“ Marcus called to him, wrapping his small arms around his legs. Mark stood there stunned. Jacqueline appeared in the doorway staring and smiling at the scene.

“He knows me?“ Mark asked, surprised. The last time he had saw Marcus he was sleeping, so they never were formally introduced.

“Of course. He has known about you from the beginning. He watched wrestling and understood that you were his father. I had hopes, maybe one day he would seek you out himself when he was older.” She explained. Mark reached down and picked his son up in his other arm. Jacqueline stood back and watched him move pass her, with his children in his arm.

After he packed up Marcus’ things into the car, they left Jacqueline waving to them. She was glad Mark had a chance to bond with them alone. This should prove very interesting, she thought, smiling as they drove down the driveway and out unto the street. She watched them, until they disappeared from her sight. Then backed into the house, closing the door behind her.

She leaned against the door, staring around the empty house. This is the first time she had been there with Marcus somewhere about. She allowed a huge sigh to exit and went to find something to occupy her mind.

Jacqueline went into her living room, flopped down on the sofa and picked up an magazine laying on her coffee table in front of her. She began to thumb through it blankly, then got bored with that. She leaned back into the sofa, shifting her body from time to time. How was she going to get through the next few days?

She sat up and thought of something, She rose from the sofa and went over to her desk and picked up the phone. It had been half an hour since Mark took Marcus. She dialed the number and listen to the ringing from the other end, hoping they person was home.

“Hello!” The voice of her redemption came through.

“Dawn?” She called.

“Jackie?” Dawn replied.

“Yeah!” She sat down and began to play with the cord.

“What is it girlfriend?” She knew this was the day mark was taking Marcus away for a few days. And also knew this was going to be hard for Jackie.

“I don’t no. Yeah, I do.” She told her. Jacqueline wasn’t much for saying a lot. Unless she got her riled.

“You want some company?” Dawn suggested, knowing Jackie was never one to impose on others.

“Well, no! Yeah. I don’t know. Maybe so.” She rose from the chair and began to pace.

“I’ll be there in a few. We can look at some movies. No I got an better idea. We’re going out for the night. It’s been a while since you had a real girls night out. I’ll get some of the others and we’re going to paint the town.” Dawn said excitedly. Jackie smiled. Yeah, that would get her mind off not having Marcus around. Since his birth, its been work and taking care of him. But she never regretted her lifestyle.

“Sounds good to me. I‘ll go get ready.” She answered.

“Okay! See you in a few.” Dawn told her.

“Dawn?” Jackie called to her.

“Yeah, Jackie?” She answered.

“Thanks!” She told her. Dawn grew silent for a moment.

“Don’t mention it. You’ve been there for me over the years. It’s the least I can do. See you later.” Dawn told her and hung up. Jacqueline held the phone for a while, then placed in it in its cradle. Dawn and her go way back.

She began to walk away when she heard the doorbell ringing. She paused, listening another ring. And when it did, headed for the door. She came up to the door and peered through the peephole. She didn’t get uninvited guests unless they were solicitors. She looked through it and stepped back, not sure she was seeing who she was seeing. She looked again and couldn’t figure this one out. Or could she?

“Damn! What is she doing here?” Jacqueline said to herself after peering through the peephole.

“Open up Jackie! I know you’re in there. I saw you waving Mark and the kids on.” She hollered from the other side of the door. Jacqueline backed away form the door. Maybe she’ll go away if she didn’t answer.

“Jackie! You might as well open the door and get this over between us. Or should I accompany Mark to one of the shows and we can do this in front of your co-workers?” She threaten her and that was a big mistake. Jacqueline turned the knob and swung the door opened.

“What are you doing here?” She stared down Mark’s wife. She hated being threaten and felt herself getting to that point.

Chapter Twenty

Mark had enjoyed his few days alone with his two children. Marcus was already being the big brother. He had deliberately left cell phone off to make sure, no one interrupted this time. Everything went well. he couldn’t have asked for a more fulfilling time.

He packed the last of their things in the car, then went to put both children in car seats, in the back. He locked up the cabin and headed for home. That’s when he decided to give Jacqueline a call and let her know he was on his way. He punched in her number and waited to hear her voice. He never noticed he had several messages.

“Hello!” The sound of another’s voice coming through started him.

“Hello? Who is this?” He demanded. Silence! Then the person identified themselves, recognizing his voice.

“Mark? This is Dawn!” She told him. He furrowed his brows.

“Dawn? Oh hi! May I please speak t Jackie.” He asked. A long paused. He suddenly got this gut feeling something was wrong.

“You didn’t get any messages left for you by Vince. Did you?” Dawn asked. Mark took his phone from his ear and checked to see. Yes, it was true. He had messages.

“No, I didn’t check. But I see them now. I was calling to let Jackie know I’m bringing Marcus home.” Mark told her.

“Mark! You need to listen to your messages. I don’t have the heart to go through it.” Dawn’s voice began to shake. Mark didn’t like this at all. He pulled over to the side of the road to talk.

“Dawn! I don’t want to go through some voice on a damn phone. Obviously something has happened for Vince to call me. And you sound like shit! So tell ME!” Mark’s deep voice boomed through the phone. Dan began to cry, setting down the phone.

“Mark you asshole. Get your ass here now and we’ll tell you then.” Ivory’s voice stern, hanging up the phone. Always can depend on Ivory to be tactful.

Mark listen to the dial tone, then began to pick up his messages. His heart sunk when he heard something had happened to Jacqueline, the day he had taken the kids. He wouldn’t go over it on the phone, but needed him to come back.

Mark closed the phone and looked back at Marcus. Him and sister were sound asleep. His heart sunk, when he thought of this little child going on without his mother. He could only hope it wasn’t anything life altering. he turned around in his seat and started the car up. He headed down the road in deep thought. Please Jackie be alright. He had lost her once, he didn’t want that anymore.

Mark drove the distance and time it took to get to Jacqueline’s house. he saw a few cars parked in her driveway and in front of her house. H knew then his fears were confirmed. He thought of what he was going to do now as far as his son is concerned.

Dawn was the first to see him drive up. She dropped everything and ran out the house, as he was getting out of the car. By now Marcus and sister were awake. Marcus was squirming in the back, wanting to get out and see his mother. Dawn looked pass Mark at Marcus and grabbing his arm, pulled him away from Marcus’ ear shot.

“I’m sorry Mark. But you’re going to have to take Marcus. Jackie’s not going to be able to.” Dawn told him. He looked at her, fighting back the tears and trying to hold back the pain consuming his heart.

“It’s Jackie, huh? She’s gone isn’t she?” He asked, through clenched teeth. Dawn broke down and began to cry.

Mark walked away from her, not excepting it. Not his Jackie. He would have felt it, her gone if it was so. He would have felt this heavy void in his heart. But the warmth she had put there, illuminated.

“Mark!” Dawn called to him gathering herself. Mark turned to her.

“She’s in the hospital. I’m sorry if I made you believe otherwise. It’s just been so hard on me. She’s my best friend, like a sister.” Dawn explained walking over to him. Mark was looking at Marcus crying to get out of the car. He missed his mother.

“What happened?” Mark asked, seeing Ivory walking out of the house and going to the car, talking to Marcus. Whatever she was saying must have helped. He stopped crying.

“She was ran over by a car.” Dawn told him. He continued to look at Ivory tending to the children.

“How bad is she?” he asked, his voice in one log monotone.

“She’s in a coma right now. She has swelling around her spinal cord. They’re not sure, but she may not ever walk again.” Dawn broke it down to him.

Ivory looked over to where they were talking and knew about what. She gestured to him she was taking the children out of the car. He nodded and watched her take his daughter out of the car seat.

“How did it happened?” He asked, as he saw Terri coming out of the house.

“She was trying to stop a drunk driver from getting behind the wheel.” Dawn told him. He slightly turned his head to the side, looking out the corner of his eyes.

“I guess is didn’t work.” Mark gathered. Terri had Marcus and was walking him into the house. He seemed to be asking for his mother.

“Did anyone see who did it?” Mark asked. Dawn bowed her head, looking at the ground and nodded.

“We did! It was your wife!” She told him. It took a moment, but it sunk in. he turned completely around to face Dawn.

Chapter Twenty-One

Mark stood in the doorway of the hospital room where Jacqueline laid in a coma. He felt the tears swell in his eyes, as he saw how fragile she looked. This was not his Jackie. She was a tough little something. She didn’t back down from anything or anyone.

He walked over to her bed, looking at the tubes that extended from her body. He pulled the chair up next to her bed and sat down, taking her tiny hand into his own. He laid his head on them and began to say a prayer.

“Jackie my Love! Please don’t leave us. Marcus and I need you so much. One thing I could always count on these last few years is, no matter what I went through. You were always there, someway.” He said, turning his head to the side and staring into space. He had made so many bad decisions when it came to the two of them. If given the chance again, he would correct it.

She felt his present before he aid a word. She could feel herself leaving the darkness that had taken her over. Her body was coming alive and with it the pain that course through her body. She began to stir, as her eyes slowly parted and closed, as the light stung them.

“Oh God! It hurts like hell!” Her voice rasp from lack of water. Mark’s head shot up and stared at her. She was opening and closing her eyes, trying to get them adjusted to the light illuminating the room.

“Jackie baby! You’re awake!” Mark grew excited. Jacqueline finally got her eyes use to the light enough to peer through her eyelids. Her head turned towards the person speaking to her.

“Mark!” She whispered. He squeezed her hand gently.

“Yes, my darlin’! It’s me.” he answered, holding back the tears that would fall. He didn’t want her to see him this way. He had to be strong for her. her face grimaced.

“It hurts so bad.” She told him. He immediately an to the door.

“Hey, someone please come in here. She’s woke and needs something for pain.” he yelled towards the nurses’ station. He saw a nurse rushing form behind the desk and towards the room.

“She came up to the huge man blocking the door and peered into the room.

Jacqueline was indeed awake and stirring in the bed. She looked up to him and gestured that she needed to get pass. He stepped back and allowed her entrance. She went over to Jacqueline and checked the IV, then pushed a button.

She checked her blood pressure, took her temperature, here breathing and her pulse rate. Everything seem to be in aright. Mark stood next to her watching everything she did and wrote down.

The nurse was getting a little uneasy, with him standing over her. She didn’t want him getting angry with her for anything. She finished with what she had to do and left the room, breathing a sigh of relief. She went back behind the nurse’s station and called for Jacqueline’s doctor, to inform him she had awaken.

“How you feeling now?” He asked taking his seat in the chair and her hand. She raised the other hand to her forehead and stared out.

“Not so much pain. Where is Marcus?” She asked, turning her head to look at him.

“He’s with Dawn, Ivory and Terri. They’re at your house.” He informed her. She stared at him for a moment then pas him. Someone was entering the room. Mark turned his head and looked over his shoulder as the doctor came to join them.

“Hello Ms Moore! I’m Dr. Gannon! I’ll be giving you an extensive examination. Sir, if you don’t mind. Could you wait in the waiting room until we’re finished.” The doctor introduced himself and looked to Mark, who had stood his full height.

“If you don’t mind. I rather stay and see what your verdict is.” Mark told him. The doctor looked him up and down, not wanting a confrontation.

“It’s okay Mark. I’ll be alright. You can go and check on Marcus for me. That would be a great help.” Jacqueline looked up at him drained of most of her energy. Mark turned his he a slightly towards her had stared for a long time without saying a word. Then realized this was her decision and didn’t want to upset her.

“Okay Jackie. Whatever you want.” He said going over to her and leaned in, kissing her forehead. She raised her hand and stroked the side of his face lightly. he stared into the glistening eyes and smiled. Then he straighten, turned and walked out of the room, pass the doctor without a glance.

“Your husband is a big man. And I can tell he cares a lot for you. When I’m finished we can all go over my findings together.” He told her. Jacqueline just stared at him, never disputing the assumption Mark was her husband. The nurse came in and closed the door to the room, as the prepared for the examination.

“Hi Dawn!” He decided not to leave, he was determined to stay close to her. He needed to know everything and how he can help her get through this.

“Mark!” Dawn called into the phone. He could hear the voices of Ivory and Terri inquiring.

“Well, it‘s some good news. She woke up a few minutes ago.” He started when Dawn began to yell and tell the others. He pulled the phone from his ears, while they screamed for joy.

“Okay! Wait, I’ll ask him. How is she? When is she coming home?” Dawn asked, half talking to him and the two in the background.

“She was in a lot of pain, when she woke up. The nurse gave her something and that seemed to help. The doctor is in there now, checking her over. How is Marcus doing?” He asked.

“Marcus is doing fine. He just misses his Mom. And he ask if you’re going to leave him like before. I guess the little guy got use to having you around.” Dawn said softly. Silence ruled the background, as the other two saw that the conversation had drifted elsewhere.

“No! I won’t be leaving him again. Or her, if I have anything to say about it. Tell him his Mommy is okay and I’ll be home tonight to tuck him in.” Mark asked of her and hung up the phone. He leaned back against the wall and went deep in thought. he hadn’t called his wife yet. And chose not to. What he had to say to her he needed to do in person.