Part One

She ran all the way home from school! She couldn’t believe he would hurt her. She had been with him for three years! She thought their relationship would endure time. Guess not, she thought as she held back the tears.

Her mother heard the front door slam and the running feet of her daughter up the stairs. She wondered what was the excitement as she peered from the kitchen door while cooking her dinner. Then going back to what she was doing wondering why young people were the way they were.

She ran into her room slamming the door behind her, falling on her bed. She began to cry, thinking back to seeing her boyfriend of three years betray all they have built up into one single act of selfishness.

She tossed and turned as she cried vowing to never trust another man as long as she live. She jumped off the bed as sorrow turned to anger! She turned to the picture of him placed on her nightstand next to her bed,  so she could see him the first thing when she woke and the last thing before she went to bed.

Snatching the picture off the nightstand, smashed the framed that housed it and ripped the picture into a million pieces. She took the friendship ring he gave her and threw it out the window. She ripped the necklace he had given her off her neck and tossed it into the trash.

When that had not eased the anger she felt, she searched for more articles that reminder her of him and disposed of each in the same manner.

She was just finishing up with the cutting of a sweater he had lend her when she heard someone calling her through her window from below. She went over to the window, sticking her head out to see who was calling her.

“Paul! What do you want?” She asked still angry!

“Oh! I see you’re a little pissed huh?” He replied.

“You heard what happened, didn’t you?” She asked, with a hint of irritation.

“Yes I did! Why don’t you come down, Jane? I’m a good listener, you know I am!” She looked at him momentarily, as she thought how many secrets he and her have shared.

“Okay Paul! I’m coming down!” She said moving from the window, heading quickly for the bedroom door.

Paul stood in his yard next door, waiting for Jane to come. They have known each other since they were babies, when her parents move in, just a few months after she was born. They grew up together and over the years have grown very close.

Jane made her way to the fence, separating the two houses, she was still angry, but Paul always knew how to cheer her up! She jumped over the fence and walked up on his porch to come to sit on the wooden couched.

Paul watched her pass him by going up on the porch, he didn’t show it, but he was just as angry as she at her boyfriends action. She will later find out later how angry.  He came upon the porch, looking down at the pretty little blond who has been his best friend forever.

She sat holding herself, he could see she had been crying! He took a seat next to her, putting his arms around her shoulders, bringing her close to him. She buried her head into his chest and begin to cry once again. He comforted her and fell in love with her on this day!


Part Two

Paul held Jane close to him as she cried, hurt from the betrayal of her boyfriend of so many years! He fell in love with her at this moment! Seeing her so vulnerable! He wanted to protect her from guys like the one she called her boyfriend!

The truth was, he may have always loved her! It took something like this to make him realize how much he truly cared for her! He didn’t mind at all, being there for her! He loved her dearly!

Jane soon calmed down! She soon straighten up and begin to wipe her eyes! She looked over the yard to the street! She wasn’t ready to talk much about how bad her heart ached! Paul wouldn’t press her! He figured when she was ready, she would talk about it!

“Hey Paul! Let’s go down by the lake before it gets too late! What’ll you say?” She perked up and looked at him, bright eyes, but redden ones!

“Sure! Why not? Last one there is a rotten something...ha ha ha!!” He took off running! Jane ran as fast as her shorter legs would carry her! But she knew to try to out run Paul would be her demised! So she took a short cut while he moved farther away!

Paul soon triumphantly arrived to the lake, looking back at the vacant space behind him! No Jane!! He laughed that he had out ran her and won the race!

“Hi Paul!” The voice came from behind him, touching his ear! Paul turned quickly in the direction the voice came! It was Jane, smiling mischievously, sitting next to an large oak tree!! 

“I win! You lose! Now what was that you said? A rotten something?” She threw her head back and laughed out loud, at the face of an astonished Paul!

“How did you do that?” He asked as he came to lie next to her! She continued to laugh at the way he looked and knowing she had pulled a fast one over on him.

“Don’t tell me you have forgotten the short cut?” She continued to laugh! He looked at her, now remembering the short cut he had discovered and had shown her!

He watched how her mood had suddenly changed form earlier! He loved to hear her laugh! She had an distinctive laugh. He was pleased he was able to help her forget about that creep! She scooted close to him, resting her head on his chest!

They looked over the beautiful lakeside scenery. Paul hooked an arm around her, savoring the moment! The sun was just starting to go behind the distance mountains!

“I wish we could stay like this forever!” She said, feeling secure in his arms! He was her best friend in all the world!

“Yeah, me too kid!” His heart was aching for her returned love! But he knew that was not possible!

“Paul! Let’s make a pack today!” She said as she moved away from him, turning to face him! Paul looked curious to what she was up to!

“Sure kid! What’s on your mind!” He could see she was serious and what she had to say was very important to her!

“We have been the best of friends since we were able to walk! Soon we will be graduating and going our different ways!” She paused and looked pass him, as if she was looking into their future!

“Yes!  Go on!” She had his undivided attention!

“No matter wherever life leads us! Let’s make this pack today! We will never lose touch of each other! And will always be there for one another whenever needed!” She gave him a pleading look as she waited for his answer!

“Sure kid! You know I will always be there for you!” Paul said as he looked into her deep blue eyes! She smiled, nodding her head in relief! She returned to her spot on his chest! He wrapped his arm around her once again, as they watch the sun disappear behind the mountains!

They both didn’t realize it, but they had made a commitment to each other that will carry them over the years! They both had fallen in love with one another! But each chose to settle for the friendship, rather then the possible heartbreak of rejection!

Part Three

Jane scurried around the room trying to gather her things for school! She had over slept and was going to be late for school as usual!! her mother was downstairs barking commands for her to hurry up so she could take her to school and get about with her day!

Finally, Jane rushed down the stairs to a impatiently waiting mother and a grinning Paul, who was trying his best to hold back his laughter! This was their morning routine! But it never ceased to make him want laugh, knowing when he came over to catch a ride t school, it would the same scenario as the day before!

Jane gave him one long look to say, don’t even think about it! She moved pass the two and out the door to the car! Paul followed, trying to keep from laughing! Her mother went on and on about how come she couldn’t hear her alarm go off in the morning!

And why did she have to take so long to get ready, knowing she was running late! Paul sat in the back with his hand covering his mouth giggling. He wouldn’t have missed this for anything in the world.........it got his day going!

Jane and Paul, to her relief! Arrive at their school! After leaving the car and waving her mother goodbye, Jane and Paul headed towards the school entrance way, making small talk!! Paul looked up to see one of his fr0ends heading his way, with an mischievous smile on his face! He seemed excited about something! Paul gave him a quit glance, as to warn him to calm down and not reveal what Paul already knew!

“Hi Sean!” Jane greeted the newcomer! He straighten his face up some!!

“Hi Jane! How ya doin?” He replied, giving quick glances over at a alarmed Paul!!

“I’m doing well, thank you!” She said as she looked over in another direction, seeing some friends of hers.

“Look Paul and Sean!! I’ll catch you two later! I see some friends of mine I need to talk too!!” She said as she brushed Paul’s arm, turned and left, leaving the two boys saying their goodbyes to her! After she was at a distance, Paul turned an angry eye to Sean!!

“What?” He asked confused! Paul took in a deep breath, then slowly let it out as he looked over Sean’s head!!

“Why do you do that? Why do you always feel the need to keep shit going! If I want Jane to know what I did to that no good ex-boyfriend of hers, I would have told her yesterday!” Paul said walking in a distance as he rubbed his fingers through his hair then turning to Sean!!

“Look man! Everyone knows! The whole school is buzzing about how you took out the most popular guy in school!! She bound to hear about it man!” Sean informed Paul!

Paul thought about what Sean had said! He had acted irrationally! It wasn’t a very thought out plan! When he saw him walking down the hallway with his bimbo he had used to hurt, he lost it! And when he confronted him on the matter, he became just a little too much of an smart-ass with him! That’s what cause him to beat the hell out of him! And he wasn’t going to apologize for it!!

Paul looked over to where Jane and her friends stood laughing about something! Jane turned to look his way, giving him s wink! Smile waved and smiled back at her! He needed to get to her before anyone told her about what happened!

Wait! He thought, what if their telling her now! No! She wouldn’t have smiled and winked at him!! His thoughts were interrupted by the school bell warning them they have five minutes to get to class! He slowly followed Sean into the school, not really hearing what the gabber was saying!! His thoughts were elsewhere!!


Part Four

Jane had left the lunch table her friends and her were sitting to go check out if her hair and make-up was in place!! As she stood before the mirror, satisfied with what she was seeing, turned to leave the restroom! Entering the restroom were four girls she hated! One in particular! She was the reason her boyfriend and her had broken up! The leader of the group, approached Jane!!

“Well, well, well!!! What do we have here! Miss Prissy!” The girl said looking over her shoulders to the other three girls!

“What do you want, Tori? You have Kevin, isn’t that enough?” She said to her maintaining her calm, looking pass Tori to the other girls blocking the door!!

“Yes! But then there is this matter of that dork of  next door neighbor of yours!” Tori bent slightly to get into Jane’s face!! Jane bent back at the waist slightly to distance her face from the other!!

“And what about Paul?” Jane asked, beginning to fan her hand in front of her face, gesturing as if to keep an foul odor from going into her nostrils!! Tori seeing this turned away from Jane and blew into her hand and putting her hand up to her nose smelled to see if her breath was smelling! Then turned an angry gazed on Jane!

“You think you’re funny like that dork of a friend of yours!! He beat the daylights out of Kevin because he didn’t let him bully him! Kevin is a fine young man, he didn’t need you in his life!!” Tori taunted Jane, like rubbing salt in the wounds!

Jane turned away to keep them from seeing the tears swelling in her eyes! Tori gave a flip look back to her friends, smiling with her hands on her hips, satisfied she had hurt her!

“Okay! Again I ask you Tori, what is it you want?” Jane asked again continuing to face away from the girls! Tori snorted!

“Well, for starters, give you what your dork gave Kevin yesterday!” Tori said as Jane turned around to see if she was truly serious about an confrontation! Tori stood nearly an head taller than her, but she wouldn’t back down from her! IF she thought it would be a fair fight, which she could see by the stance of the other three girls, it wasn’t going to be!

“Look Tori! I don’t have any quarrel with you or you friends! What is done is done! You have Kevin, why don’t you leave it at that?” Jane said trying not to help escalate the situation!

“Oh! Now you want to call it even now that Kevin is suffering an broken nose and sprained arm where your boyfriend tried to break it off? I don’t think so!” Tori said as she advanced on Jane with the others behind!

Suddenly all stopped in their tracks as one of the stall doors opened! Out stepped one that ALL the girls were afraid to confront nor many of the boys for that matter! She had a reputation around the school as to have beaten down a couple of boys for just looking at her funny! And had been kicked out of a lot of schools for brawling! And there is a possibility she had beaten someone into a coma! How true that was, no one knows! Nor did they want to find out how true!!

“You ladies are a piece of work! You come in her the four of you and want to confront one person! Now I call all of you cowards! But, if Jane doesn’t mind, I’m feeling a little edgy today, you know.....PMS!! I need a good fight today! And since you ladies or also looking, why don’t you accommodate me?” The girl asked, as she walked passed Jane and into Tori’s face!

“I have no quarrel with you Joanie!!” Tori said nervously, as the other three slowly backed away towards the door for an hasty retreat!!

“Oh really? Well Tori, you do!! Any friends of the “DORK!!” as you called him, is a friend of mine! So yes Tori, you do have an quarrel with me!” Joanie moved in closer to Tori, their noses just touching one another! She stared deep into Tori’s eyes! Tori was just a couple of inches shorter than Joanie, but not as huge!!

Tori began to tremble as she figured out how to get out of this situation, her other friends had already made an swift retreat! So there she stood alone, with the smaller girl who she had come in to beat within her life, assisted by her friends and the larger tougher girl in her face!!

“Joanie! I appreciate your help, but this will get us nowhere! She’s not worth the effort or energy! She’s just an pathetic little slut that has nothing better to do than go around causing misery for others! BECAUSE!! We all know she is a poor excuse for an human being!” Jane said this as she moved between Joanie and Tori, only to turn to Tori as she finish her speech!!

Tori’s eyes tossed darts at Jane! Jane now having the upper hand, chuckled as did Joanie!! Tears began to form in Tori’s eyes! She began to tremble all over, barely able to contain herself! She will get the little witch in her own time! But now she must stay calm!!

“Okay! You win this round Jane! I’m going on with my life with Kevin! That will be my consolation over you! Now may I go?” Tori asked, looking from Jane to Joanie, who in returned had taken a seat on the sink’s edge watching the exchange!! Joanie acknowledging Jane as in control with a outstretched hand in her direction!!

Jane looked at Tori for a second, then waved her away as she turned from her! She heard her feet hit the floor hard as she stomped out of the restroom! The lunch bell sounded for everyone to return to class! Jane gave Joanie a thank you smile as the two made their way out of the restroom to class!!


Part Five

After school Jane met up with Paul and three of his friends she knew well! They all decided to go to the local after school hangout! A soda fountain bar!! The five friends came into the establishment as the music blazed, kids were dancing and mingling! The spot an empty booth, went over and sat down!! Sean was the first to open his mouth! And of course it wasn’t anything positive!

“So Jane! What was this I heard about an confrontation in the bathroom with Tori?” He asked, leaning into the table across from her, with that stupid grin on his face anticipating some juicy details! Jane gave him a very dirty look and rolled her eyes! Paul, seated next to her scooted over to make room for him to turn towards Jane! Jane looked to Paul!

“What?” She asked, with palms straight up! Paul’s eyes grew narrow!!

“Is what Sean says is true? Did that bimbo touch you?” Paul asked looking Jane over for any bruises, scratches or any injuries!

“No! I heard that Joanie happened to be in the restroom, kicking it in one of the stalls! She heard everything that was going on, so she came out and fronted Tori!” Sean said without taking a breath! All was amazed at this kids wind factor!!

“Hey! There’s Joanie now! She’s over alone at the bar!! I’m going to get her!” Billy said as he left the others!!!

They watched as he came up next to her and began talking to her! She smiled friendly enough at him, then turned to look over in their direction! Everyone at the table smiled and beckon for her to join them! She gave them all a quick glance, then turn to Billy and smile, nodding her head okay as she descended from the bar stool! She walked next to Billy as he had his arms around her waist!

“Hi Joanie!” They all said in unison!! She nodded to them as she took a seat across from Jane, sitting between Billy and Sean!!

“So Joanie!! Tell us about what happened today in the girls restroom! Jane won’t say anything!” Sean asked, all excited, thinking where he couldn’t get anything out of Jane, Joanie would comply! Joanie took one look at Jane and could see she didn’t want to discuss it!!

“Sean! Why don’t we just enjoy this afternoon! Who wants to talk about bad things in an atmosphere as this!!” Joanie looked to all of them, then back to Jane, who was nodding her approval of how she handled that situation!

“I agree with Joanie! We are here to have a good time!! So let’s!! It’s good to be around friends!” Brian injected!! Just then who would walk in!!

“UH-OH!! Look who just came through the door!” Sean said as he noticed Kevin with Tori! Jane shifted in her seat slightly putting her head down! Paul took in a deep breath as he watched Jane go through some changes!

“Why don’t we go somewhere else?” Paul said as he looked at Jane and the others!

“No! We were here first! Let them leave!” Jane said looking around at her friends, then back to Paul! Just then, she noticed Tori nudging Kevin! Now they were heading in their direction!

Part Six

Kevin and Tori made their way to the table the group were sitting. He draped his arm around Tori’s shoulder as they stopped at the table.

“Hey look! I don’t want any trouble. School is almost over and we’ll be out in the real world, making our mark. So how about we put this childish stuff behind us and move on to a better day.” Kevin looked from one person to another. Tori snapped her head in his direction, confused to where this all was coming. Everyone glance at each other, suspicious.

“If you’re really serious Kevin. And I hope you mean everything you said. I’m willing to let bygones be bygones.” Jane said, not sure he was meaning anything he was saying, but hoping.

“What the HELL!” Tori screamed, smacking his arm. Kevin looked at her puzzled.

“What’s gotten into you?” He said dumbfounded.

“Why are you making nice with these losers. Paul nearly beats you to a pulp, become of her. And you stand there making friends?” She yelled at him. Kevin backed away from her for a moment, staring her up and down.

“Tori! Did you not hear what I said. We are going to be graduating in a week. This childish stuff won’t hold water when we get out there in the real world.” Kevin replied. Tori took two steps, shaking her head. Then she turned and stared him down with hands on her hips.

“You are as much an loser as all of them. Enjoy your newfound friend and adulthood. I’m out of here.” She turned and walked out of the shop.

“I’m sorry for her. Some people never grow up. I meant everything I said. See ya’ll later!” He said and swiftly went out of the shop in search of Tori. This pained Jane.

“Well! What do you guys think? He’s for real or jerking our chains?” Brian asked, looking to each one. They all except for Jane shrugged their shoulders.

“Well Jane! You know him better than any of us. What do you think?” Paul asked looking at her reactions. She thought for a while before answering.

“Only time will tell. He sounded sincere enough. We shall see.” She said, wishing he did have an change of heart.


Part Seven

The day of Graduation had come. Joanie spent the night with Jane. She had no one who would be coming to her Graduation, her mom had died when she was younger and her father was always out of town. The two girls had a wonderful time and became very good friends.

“Jane! Why must we always go through this? You’re going to be late for your Graduation.” Her mother yelled up the stairs.

Jane looked over at Joanie who was laughing up an storm. Paul had told her about their morning runs. Jane laughed with her as she gather up her purse and stow. The two girls ran down the stair and out to the car where Jane’s mother had already started it up.

They drove up into the front of the school. The girls jumped out. Jane’s mother told her she would be waiting out front for her father, whom would be alone shortly. He was coming straight from work. The boys were waiting for the girls on the steps.

“WOW!! Joanie! You look, mmmm!” Billy said wrapping an arm around her shoulder. Joanie blushed.

“Yeah Joanie, nice!” Sean imitating his move. Brian stood back laughing at his friends. Paul’s eyes were fixed on how lovely Jane looked.

“And need I say it?” He smiled. Her cheeks turned a rose red. She didn’t know why, but Paul seemed different. He had never looked at her the way he was now staring. Or had he? She wasn’t sure.

“AH! Hey folks. I think we had better get to the auditorium to prepare for the commencements.” Brian suggested as he made his way up the steps. Everyone jumped, realizing the time. The all ran through the halls for the finally time as they made their way to their futures.

After the Graduation ceremonies, family and friends took pictures of the New Grads. They all made their way to the buses waiting to take them to the amusement park rented for the night. The pack were all together on the same bus. But was Kevin and Tori.

When they first came on, everyone felt it would be some trouble with Tori and not sure it Kevin meant what he had said a week ago. At everyone surprise, he seemed legit. So they all relaxed and enjoyed the ride. Soon they pulled up into the parking lot of the theme park. You could hear the cheers emanating from the other buses.

As the buses formed a snakelike line, each unloaded a crowd of noisy young adults. They were so excited, rushing through the gates. Filling the park with their presence, bringing it to life.

Everyone formed lines at various rides and food stands. It was a gala atmosphere. Some just walked around holding hands or hugged up. Some sat watching other running and having fun.

The pack were together for a while until each ran off their separate ways. Paul and Jane stayed together while Brian went off with his girlfriend, Joanie followed Sean and Billy.

“I hope they don’t try anything funny with Joanie.” Jane said becoming very protective of her friend. Paul leaned his head back and laughed out loud. Jane looked up to his with a frown on her face. Paul stared down to her, seeing her expression, stopped laughing to explained.

“No one knows but me how well Joanie can handled herself. The rumors you heard about her is true. She can whoop any man. She is a weightlifter. She’s going into a bodybuilding program next week. She’ll be feature in all kinds of contest in the future.” He informed her, turning the frown to an expression of amazement.

“She didn’t tell me that. We spent the whole night telling of our dreams. She and you have a very special relationship, don’t you?” She looked down at the ground as they walked along.

“Yeah we do. But so do you and I!” He added. They were so into their conversation, they never knew their every move was being watched.


Part Eight

Kevin made up in his mind he wanted Jane back. He never truly wanted Tori, she constantly threw herself at him and what was a man to do. She wasn’t half the woman Jane. Then someone told Jane. One thing led to another. They were broken up. Seeing her with Paul had struck a chord. He realized she was the best part of him. And without her he was nothing.

He decided to gather his courage, making peace with her and her friends. But Tori’s outburst almost lost it for him. He had a couple of his friends to take Tori and get her drunk. That’s all she was good for. He followed Paul and Jane for sometime, waiting for a time he could make his move.

They were walking along when a sea of people plowed through them. Jane became separated from Paul. Kevin saw his chance and took it. He came up behind Jane, picked her up and carried her away from everyone.

“Paul!” She called to Paul, trying to catch his hand before he got lost in the crowd. Paul desperately tried to see her over the head’s of the gang of people. But by her being so small, he wasn’t able to locate her.

He would wait until they pass by. Surly she would be waiting on the other side of the moving force.  Jane stretched her neck to se if she could see Paul. Mission Impossible, she thought. She’ll wait until they pass.

Suddenly someone came up from behind her, wrapping their arms around her waist picking her up and began to carry her off. Jane laughed thinking it was Paul playing games. They came to an secluded spot.

Kevin set her down. She turned around laughing. She paused in mid chuckle when she saw whom had taken her. She jerked her head from side to side, searching for Paul. Kevin reached to her. She stepped back. Kevin raised his hand to calm her.

“What are you doing? I should have known you weren’t sincere.” She snapped at him, continuing to back away from his advance.

“Yes! Yes I did mean everything I said. We’re going out into the world. We’re no more teenagers running through the halls. Or kids playing stupid little games. We’re young adults.” He explained. Jane stopped backing up as he stop approaching her.

“Sounds good Kevin. But you just snatched me from Paul’s side. What do you call that when he will be worried about me when the crowd passes and not see me there?” She asked, arms now crossed and eyes narrowed. His heart fluttered. She was always beautiful when angry.

“Look! Just hear me out and then you can go back to Paul. I promise.” He pleaded. She looked to the ground, thinking. Taking a deep breath, knowing she would hate herself in the morning, nodded her head.

“I’m going to be getting a job out of town. It’s a good paying job. I’m going to be a wrestler. Making a lot of money. But only one thing is missing. I don’t want to leave you behind.” He said this as earnest as he could. Jane looked at him puzzled. She didn’t quite make out what he was trying to say.

“Jane! Being without you these last few months had been more than I could bare. Now I realize what a jackass I have been to you. You have always been faithful to me.” He continued. Jane turned away from him and then back.

“What about Tori? You left me for her.” She reminded him. He threw his head back running his fingers through his long blond hair. Then he gazed into her eyes. She felt her heartthrob, seeing what she found in them. They locked, instinctively their bodies began to move towards each other.

Kevin took her into his arms, claiming her mouth for his own. Jane responded, missing him for so many months, complete in his arms. He moved his mouth from hers, holding her close to him thanking all that is he had his Jane again.

“Marry me Jane. Please be my wife?” His hot breath flowed these words into her ears. She was overcome with the moment.

“Yes, yes!” She whispered into this chest, tears staining her eyes. Kevin’s mouth curved into a smile. He had gotten his lady back in his arms again.

Paul stood in the distance, witnessing everything. He had went searching for her when he saw her gone after the crowd had pass. He felt something had happened. Never did he think it would be this. He walked away brokenhearted, he had planned to ask her to marry him tonight. Tomorrow he would be leaving.

Part Nine

Paul stood under the tree for a few moments, watching how Jane responded to Kevin’s touch so readily. He never fooled himself concerning her feelings for Kevin. He knew despite the fact she had broken up with the creep, she still loved him. That’s just the way she was, loyal to the end.

That’s why he loved her so. He had hoped he could get her to marry him and they could leave this town. He had hoped his love for her would make her love him as much or more than she loved Kevin. But now, he sees this was an mistake. He slowly turned and walked away with out a word, the tears swelling in his eyes.

He had made it back to the crowded area, finding a bench and sitting down covering his face with his hands to hide the tears now flowing.

He didn’t want to see her. He decided he would leave and take an taxi back home. It may be an better idea to leave earlier in the morning than planned. He rose from the bench in time to see his friends heading his way.

“Hey Paul! Where’s Jane?” Sean asked, looking around in search of her.

“She had something to do!” He said solemnly, turning away from the group. Joanie walked up behind him and laid an gentle hand on his shoulder.

“Guys! I’m going to be leaving in the morning. I wanted to tell all of you when we were together. But hey, this is as good as a time as any.” He shrugged his shoulders, still looking in the direction Jane and Kevin were.

“What?” Brian asked, looking around at Sean and Billy.

“Hey man! What are you talking about, you’ll be leaving? When and where are you going?” Billy asked coming to stand directly in front of him. Paul stared at Billy straight into his eyes.

“I didn’t tell anyone that I was thinking about becoming an wrestler. I signed up for this school. They accepted me. I’ll be leaving tomorrow.” He explained, turning to address all of them. Joanie squealed. Everyone looked over to her puzzled.

“So am I Paul. What an surprise.” She smiled at him. The others looked from Paul then to Joanie.

“Wow man! This is freaking crazy. So am I.” Sean said, walking away laughing his head off.

“Well this is f’n weird. Me and Billy are leaving next week. When are you going Sean?” Brian said looking at Billy who had joined Sean in the laughter.

“Okay! Why was everyone so secretive? We had discuss this possibility many times.”  Paul looked around at everyone with a smile creeping at the corners of his mouth.

“Well I thought you all would laugh at me, so I didn’t say anything.” Joanie replied, laughing with the others.

“Yeah me too! I know we are all wrestling fans, but hey, actually becoming one. How far fetch could that be?” Brian confessed. They all nodded their heads.

“I’m not leaving until a month from know. I’m going to a school for the WCW!” Sean said. Looking at his friends.

“Yeah man? I’m going there too.” Paul stated. Joanie squealed again. They all nodded their heads knowingly.

“Well sorry you guys, but Brian and me are going to a place called OVW, a school for the WWF, the rival of the WCW.” Billy informed his friends. They all stopped laughing, realizing they all were going to embark on wrestling careers and wonder how many of them would succeed.


Part Ten

Jane and Kevin slowly walked back to the crowed area. Kevin had his arm around her, holding her tight. She wanted to find Paul and explain before anyone else did. But she had a bigger problem heading her way. And they weren’t the happy camper.

“You b@%&*rd!! You will not get away with this. I’ll get you back if it’s the last thing I do.” Tori screamed at him from the top of her voice and giving him an hard slap across his face. His head almost spun around.  She was causing an scene. Jane moved behind Kevin to shield herself from the embarrassing moment.

“Stop! You knew the deal when you got with me. You knew how much I still loved Jane and wanted her back. You thought all the acrobats in the bed would change my mind. Sorry Tori! But you are and always be a slut!” He spat back at her.

She lunged towards him but he caught her by the arms holding her away from him. She struggled to get free. Finally tired of it, he threw her to the ground. She hit with a loud sounding thump, getting an large gasp from the crowd.

He pulled Jane to him and with one last look of disgust at her lying on the ground weeping, walked away out of her life. Tori laid there humiliated before her soon to be ex-classmates, finally revealed to all what she truly were about. Everyone walked away, murmuring to each other and looking at her as they pass by.

“Don’t you think you were just a little hard on her, Kevin?” Jane asked as they left the area. Kevin never looked at her as he continued to walk.

“No! She got just what she deserved.” He said coldly. Jane looked ahead thinking of how callus he seemed. What would be her fate if he decided he no longer wanted her?

“I wonder? She quietly said. He stopped. Feeling where this was coming from! He got down on his knees, gentle laying his hands on her shoulders, looking her dead in her eyes.

“Jane! I make this promise to you. I will never do anything to embarrass you. You are nothing like her. You are the woman of my life and dreams. I want you to be my wife and have my children. To spend the rest of my life with.” He said this with deep conviction. She had never see him so desperate. Maybe he was telling the truth.

“I don’t know Kevin. Back there it was so romantic and all. I got caught up in the moment, I wasn’t quite thinking clearly. But after I saw how you did her, I just wonder.” She said eyes never leaving his.

“Jane don’t do this to us! Please! I did that to her because she doesn’t know any other way. If I treated her like I do you, she would understand. She only knows a man being abusive to her. I can’t live with anyone like that. You are what I need. A sweet gentle woman, who can understand the romantic things a man can give.” He tried to explained. Jane tilted her head to the side absorbing all that he had said. She could see he was being earnest.

“Let’s just sleep on it for the night. All of this is going to fast for me. Anyway, I have to find Paul and the others before they become worried about me.” She said backing away from his grasp and glancing at him for a moment, then walked away to find her friends.

“You will be mine Jane. Make no doubt about it” He said as an demonic expression formed on his face. A man obsessed.


Part Eleven

“Hey guys!” Jane called out to her friends. But Paul was nowhere to be found.

“Janie! Where were you?” Joanie asked as she came up to them.

“I had something to do.” She replied still searching for Paul. They all looked at her curiously.

“Funny! That’s what Paul said when we asked him.” Sean remarked. He caught how her expression changed.

“What do you mean? We were separated by a crowd..........” She drifted off as the possibility he had come looking for her and spotted her with Kevin.

“How did he seem to you?“ She asked any of them.

“He seemed okay. Just said he was going on home. Something about he had to get up early in the morning.” Sean answered first.

“Yeah, he seemed okay. He was happy he would be going out of town tomorrow.” Brian agreed looking to all the guys. Joanie was the only one who had picked up on his mood. She wanted to test the waters.

“But you know guys, when we first came up, he did seem a little distance.” She stared at the reaction she received from Jane. Jane looked at her and then towards the ground as if she was searching for something.

“He did? Where did you find him? And what is this about him going out of town? He never mentioned it to me.” She questioned, feeling her heart began to pound harder in her chest.

“Down on the edge of the area. Why? And he just told us tonight. Said he wanted to tell all of us when we were all together. But then you were busy.” Sean answered, still feeling something wasn’t right. Joanie crossed her arms, spotting Kevin lurking in the distance.

“Guys, we’ll catch up with you later. I have some girl talk I need to do with Janie.“ She said as she walked over to Jane and pulling her away from the group. Jane followed without question still in a daze.

“I have the feeling there is something you want to say. I don’t think you want to do it in front of the guys.” Joanie said to her as she pointed in the direction of Kevin. Jane followed her finger to where Kevin stood like a love sick puppy.

“Joanie! I may have hurt Paul. He may have saw Kevin and I kissing.” She began to cry. Joanie nodded her head.

“Yeah! I’m afraid that may be so. He was very quiet and I could see he had been crying. He tried to hide it, but he and I have been to close of friends for either one of us to hide anything from each other.” She told her. Jane looked up to Joanie, realizing from the tone in her voice, she was in love with Paul. Jaonie, catching her stare, turned away.

“You’re in love with him. Why haven’t you told him?” Jane walked up to her trying to catch her eyes.

“Because as I said, we could never hide anything from each other. He couldn’t hide the fact he was deeply in love with you. I just want him to be happy no matter who he is with.” Joanie took a couple of steps away to hide the pain she was experiencing.

“No way! Paul and I are good friends, we grew up together. Please! Girl you should let him know.” Jane tried to explained the relationship between Paul and her. Joanie looked at her if she couldn’t believe her ears.

“WOW! Are you that naive?” Joanie asked, staring at her in disbelief.

“What do you mean?” Jane couldn’t figure out what she was talking about. Joanie just shook her head.

“Well if you don’t know, then I can’t help you. It’s time to get back to the bus area. We’ll be leaving soon.” She said to Jane walking away. Jane looked over to where Kevin stood. She watched as Joanie continued on catching up with the others.

She stood, thinking about everything. She knew Joanie would never reveal her love for Paul as long as she was free. But maybe if she could prove to Joanie, Paul and her belong together. And it wasn’t like she didn’t love Kevin. She looked at the group waiting for her, she turned from them and walked over to Kevin and wrapped her arms around his waist. She had made her decision. She wanted all of them to be happy. Her with Kevin, Paul and Joanie together.

The group stared momentarily, turned and walked on, out of her life, so they thought. Each to follow their destiny. Only Joanie lingered longer, watching. Brokenhearted for the mistake her friend was making.


Part Twelve

After sleeping through the night. Morning came bringing a brighter outlook on life. Everything seemed a lot different. Jane decided she needed to talk with Paul. She needed to explain to him what he saw the night before. As much as she was in loved with Kevin, she also cared very much for Paul.

Joanie told her Paul was in love with her. She wanted to hear him tell her that. If this was so, then she knew between the two men. Paul would be the better man for her. After showering and dressing, went next door and talk with Paul.

“Hi Mr. Hunter.” She addressed Paul’s father from the other side of the screen door.

“Good morning Jane, honey. How is the new Grad this morning?” He asked opening the screen door and stepping back to allow her entrance.

“I ‘m doing just find Sir, thank you.” She replied, looking around to see if she could see Paul anywhere.

“Is Paul home?” She asked still looking pass Paul’s father.

“Oh Jane, I’m sorry! Didn’t Paul tell you he was leaving this morning? He’s gone, probably there by  now.” He looked worried. Jane felt her heart sink.

“I heard he was leaving, I wanted to talk to him before he left.” She took a deep breath and exhaled. His father stood there shaking his head.

“Okay Thanks anyway. See you later.” She said walking towards the front door and exiting. She had just made it to her yard when someone called her from Paul’s house. It was his mother.

“Jane sweetie. Here Paul asked me to give this to you.” She came up handing her a letter. Jane took it, not sure what to expect inside.

“Thanks Mrs. Hunter. Thank you very much.” She felt her heart lighten as she ran into her house and up to her room hardly able to contain herself.


Once in her room, she threw herself on her bed and ripped the letter anxious to see what Paul had to say to her. Her smile slowly turned to a frown as she red the letter:

I wanted you to know how much I truly love you. You are my friend, but you are my heart. I will always remember you and the many times we sat and comforted each other.

I know now I can’t compete with the love you have for Kevin. He’s truly one lucky man to hold your heart in his hand. So with that revelation, I’ve decided to move myself from the equation. I wish him and you so much happiness.

*You see, that’s all I ever wanted is for you to be happy and follow your dreams. Take care and hope we will keep in touch.

With all my love to you my Sweet Jane.

Paul*

Jane stopped reading the letter, as the tears fell from her eyes. She realized how much she had hurt him. What was she thinking? Joanie was right. She is very naive if she thought you could substitute one love for another. Didn’t Tori try that and look where it got her?

She decided to let Paul go. She didn’t want to cause him anymore pain than she already had. She was in love with Kevin and Paul could never replace that love, no matter how much she or he tried. She called Kevin and they made their wedding arrangements.

Kevin left as planned to get situated in the wrestling school. While he was there he found a nice apartment where Jane and him would live as man and wife. In September he came back and they were married. Jane moved away from her family for the first time in her life. Little did she know, her happiness would soon be a thing of the pass.


Part Thirteen

Over the next three years, the friends went their separate ways. Brian and Billy met up at the OVW  for the WWF. And to their surprise another person they knew showed up too, Kevin. He made it known he was now married to Jane, hoping the news would get back to Paul wherever he was. But little did he know, Paul knew from a letter he received from his mother. He took it well. Besides Joanie and him had become an item. And then Sean was also there with them.

At first the group kept up with each other by letters and phone calls, thrill to be in their favorite sport, wrestling. But their careers took off like a shot and they soon found themselves doing some of the Indy shows, the busy schedules pretty much squashed the constant writing to one another.

The first two years of their marriage, Kevin pretty much kept his promise. He was a dutiful husband. He loved coming home to her after a long day at school. That was the easy part. But after he became noticed, he was sent to the Indy circuit. He was on the road more. She hardly got a chance to see him.

Then during the third year, he had become well known in the Indy. Rumors had it he was seeing women while he was on the road. Jane was having a hard time dealing with it. She didn’t know if she should confront him or not.

She sat at her kitchen table relaxing and drinking her nice cold one. She had started to taste of the brew about an year ago. Found it tasty. She was jarred out of her serenity.

Ring! Ring! Ring! The sound of the phone tore through the quiet.

“Hello!” Jane spoke into the receiver.

“Hi! Has Kevin made it home yet?” The sultry voice flowed from the other end of the phone. Jane pulling the phone from her ear, looked at it as if it was an alien to her. 

“Hello? Hello?” The voice called, sounding far away as she remained staring at the receiver.

“Uh! No! No he hasn’t made it hear yet!” She slowly returned the receiver to her ear, dazed.

“Oh! He said he would be there when he left me.” The phone informed her. Jane felt herself going into an rage. To many rumors and now this.

“Who are you? And what do you want with my husband?’ She yelled into the phone.

“No! Forget that I said that! If you want him, you can have his sorry ass!” She screamed in to the person on the other end before slamming the receiver onto the cradle.

She sunk down to the floor crying. She covered her face with her hands, trying to figure how she had come to this point in her life. She hadn’t been happy for sometime now.

She made an decision, no more sweet little Jane. He would know this was true. She had enough of his philandering. She ran to her room, grabbing her luggage out of the closet and began to pack as much as she could fit into the luggage.

She loaded her things into her car. She gave the apartment she had shared with Kevin for the last three years one last walk through. Without a note, she closed the door to her life with him, got into her car and sped away to her hometown.

Tori eased the phone into the cradle, smiling victorious. She had been seeing Kevin off and on for over an year and a half. His continuous promises of leaving Jane had finally gotten to her. She had tired of his lies and felt it was time she inform Jane first hand of her husband’s infidelities.

“I told you I would get you back!” She laughed deviously, bringing a glass of white wine to her lips and taking a sip.


Part Fourteen

Kevin walked through the front door of his apartment. His heart fluttered. He sensed something wasn’t right. He wasn’t sure, but he felt it the moment he entered the house. He made his was into the kitchen.

He noticed the half drunk beer and figure she was in taking a shower. So he went into the bedroom and saw the half opened drawers with pieces of clothing hanging out of them, on the floor and on the bed.

He could see she wasn’t in the bathroom. His heart sunk to the pits of his stomach. He realized, she had left in a hurry. He searched through out the apartment hoping it was an last minute emergency and she had left him a note. When he didn’t find one, he knew she had left him.

“Where is she? I have to find her and bring her back!” He yelled, running his fingers through his hair frantic. Then he thought of something.

“Only one place she could have gone. Home to her parents. I’m going after her!” He said to himself as she ran from the apartment and jumped into this truck, heading after her.

Jane drove down the road. Very few cars passed by. The sun would soon be setting and she didn’t want to be drive at night, since she had been up since morning anticipating Kevin’s return home.

“Damn him! He promised me he wouldn‘t embarrass me. All he’s done for the last year is just that. So much for your promises, both to me and our marriage vows.” She yelled, as the tears began to flood her eyes.

A few months earlier, Jane had decided to surprise Kevin. She made it to the hotel he would be staying. Just as she got off the elevator and went searching for the room he was in, she caught a glimpse of him with another woman going into his room.

She got a chance to get their exchange before they entered the room. They were both drunk as far as she could see. She went to the door and over heard them! She ran from the hotel and took the next flight home.

She has planned on leaving him then. But her mother talked her out of it, telling her about her own father’s infidelity! Jane was shocked! Her mother had returned the favor by finding someone who care about her on those night her father would leave her.

Soon he discovered it and not wanting to lose her, vowed complete faithfulness to her. He hasn’t strayed once in sixteen years. So Jane decided to give him another chance! But after this, enough was enough!

Soon she found she was getting sleepy! She pulled into a Holiday Inn and checked in. She left the more heavier luggage in the trunk of the car and brought in her lighter and more personal things.

She took a nice hot soothing shower, to relax her nerves. Finished, she came out of the bathroom, towel around her and her hair wrapped in a towel, went to the small refrigerator, pulled out her nice cold one!

She picked up the remote to the TV. After turning it on began to flip the channels. Finally it hit one station. Wrestling was on it! It wasn’t the WWF! They announced someone by the name of Triple H, accompanied by Chyna! She slowly sat her beer down on the nightstand and crawled to the edge of the bed, watching the two announced, make their way down the ramp. It was Paul and Joanie!

“Paul!” She whispered feeling her heart rip. Why didn’t she go to him when she could? She allowed the only person whom had ever truly love her walk right out of her life. 

She pressed down on the off button of the remote and began to cry loudly. She was unable to stopped the flowing tears falling from her eyes or the wail coming from the depths of her being. Seeing Paul with Joanie was the last straw!

Suddenly a knock came at her door! She paused for a moment, listening to see if she had heard something. It sounded a second time. She wondered who could be at her door, since she knew no one. Maybe the room service. But she hadn’t ordered anything either.

“Hello! Is everything okay in there?” The voice penetrated through the door! And to her, it seemed quite familiar.

“Yes! Yes! Everything is fine, thank you!” She replied, as she stuttered the words out, trying to stifle the tears.

“Are you sure?” The voice came through once again. Now she knew the voice. She jumped from the bed, running to the window. She slowly pulled back the curtain to peer out. There he stood, with his long blonde hair riding the wind.

“Paul!” She said softly, as she fumbled to unlock the door. She swung it open. She stared into the eyes, that had comforted her on many occasions. He gasped, as he stared down into the tear stained blues of his Jane.

“Jane? Is that you?” He asked, stunned to have run into her unexpectedly. She smiled weakly, unable to refrain from crying, she broke. She needed him to hold and comfort her as he had done in the past.

He quickly pulled her to him and taking her up into his arms. He closed the door behind him, shutting out the rest of the world and carried her over to the bed. Joanie watched all of this from the window of her room. She slowly let the curtain fall back into place and silently went to lay in her bed, knowing what she had with Paul, had come to its end.

Part Fifteen

Jane laid snug in Paul’s arms. He had always known how to quiet the turmoil in her life! She looked up into his deep blues, seeing the love and affection he had for her!

She caught something in his eyes she had always seen, but didn’t noticed until NOW! Her heart tighten in her chest, she cast her eyes downward, not wanting to acknowledge the obvious! Paul was in LOVE with her!

The tears began to sting her eyes. She thought back on how many times she had ran to Paul with her boyfriend problems and he had sat there looking at her the way he was now, listening! Forever there for her needs. Never asking anything in return!

How could she look at him again knowing what she knows now? She had hurt him for so long and he had never told her how he felt! But then he did, not by words but actions.

But why now is she seeing it? She looked up to the only person who has always been able to help her through her conflicts. She looked once again into his eyes searching for the answer to a question she refused to accept.

Her love for him. Their eyes locked, lingering for a moment. Then slowly their faces pulled together like magnets. His mouth found her own, covering it. Their lips parted, breathing in the air from each other. Their tongue met, entwining and dancing around each other.

Paul’s tighten his embrace. Tears watered his eyes. At last he was tasting of his beautiful Jane. He savored the kiss, deepening it. He groaned, sending a vibration through his body, setting off every nerve.

He needed more of her to quench the fires raging! His mouth moved from hers, covering and tasting her freshly showered skin, with the touch of the sweet smelling peach flavor passion oil she loved to cover herself afterwards. This drove him wilder. Jane moaned under his kisses and desired more. He made her feel like NO man has ever.

All thoughts of why she was there, had vacated her mind. All she knew is she wanted more of Paul and the love he was expressing. No rephrase that! She needed Paul! She put Kevin and her marriage vows far back in the recesses of her mind.

Right now it was Paul and her. 


Part Sixteen

Paul’s lips pressed hard against Jane’s own, as he deepened the kiss! This was all he had ever dreamt, thought or hoped. Having her here, right now in his arms. He wasn’t sure if it would ever happened with her attraction to Kevin. Kevin! He didn’t want to think about him now. But he did wonder why was she here and why was she crying. He had heard talk of Kevin being unfaithful to her. He had no doubt she must have discovered this. Well she was his now. And Kevin want be hurting her ever again.

“I love you Jane.” He proclaimed. He never thought over the years this would be happening.

“I love you too Paul.” The words so easily flowed from her mouth, as she rubbed his chest. He smiled. In his heart he always knew she loved him. But he wasn’t sure if she would ever realize it.

“I know.” Paul announced. He pulled her closer to him, fearing she would evaporate before his eyes and he wake to a dream.

“You knew? Why didn’t you say something.? Or do something?’ She asked! He just sighed.

“You wouldn’t have believed me.” He replied, then planted a kiss on the lips preparing to form another question.

They began to touch each other in ways never before experience between them. Their arousal heightened, Paul moved from the bed. As he slipped out of his clothes, she watched with anticipation. She looked at him and all his magnificence and longed for him to be next to her.

He gave her a look as if to ask, 'Are you sure this is what you want?' As an answer, she raised her arms to him with pleading eyes for him to quench the burning fires in her. He moved over her, as the night's shadows covers the earth at sunset, engulfing her body. Feeling his lips on her neck, and his body touching hers.

She let out a scream that came from the depths of her soul. In response he covered her mouth with his', kissing her long and hard. She let out a whimper as tears rolled down her face, as she felt she would not get enough of him.

Hearing this he gave himself to her holding back nothing. And all the desire and hunger they felt for each other, finally receded. They made love to the morning, drained of every ounce of energy. Laying in each others arms contented, they slept.

Part Seventeen

“You Bastard!” She screamed at him, jumping from his lap, wrapping the sheet she clung to around her. Paul immediately came to his feet and grabbed at her.

“No Jane! Let me explain.” He pleaded catching one of her flailing hands in his own, only to have it snatched away. She was furious as she moved about the room, fleeing his advance.

“Explain? Explain what Paul? That you’re no better than Kevin. I can’t believe this. Where is Joanie now?” She demanded of him. He his eyes quickly roamed the floor. He couldn’t stand to see the pain and anger towards him, in her eyes.

“She’s in her hotel room.” He answered, voice very low in volume. Jane let out a long breath. Then she asked the next devastating question.

“In her room, Paul? Or yours together?” She folded her arms over her chest, nervously tapping her feet. Paul’s eyes met hers. He knew there was no correcting what he had done.

“She’s in our room.” The answer ripped her heart to shreds. She felt her feet weaken. Paul saw her floundering and moved to assist. He stopped abruptly. The eyes that stared at him from the face he had loved for so long, broke his heart.

“I had heard Joanie and you were together. But I thought it was an rumor. I thought you two were just friends.” She began, barely able to utter anything.

“And when you came in and we spent the night together. I felt it surly had to been an rumor.” She continued. She looked at him as if he was some strange man she never knew.

“You slept with me, while she waited in you two’s room. How could you do this to us. No wait! How could you do this to her? I thought you were better. You aren’t. You’re just.......like......HIM!” She spewed these words at him like venom.

“GO! Never speak to me again!” She said numbed of all feelings. Paul looked at her glazed eyes. He thought to try and say something. But in his heart, he knew it was best to leave. He walked pass her and open the door. He turn to gaze upon what might have been. Only if....................................!

Jane pulled on to the street she grew up in. She sighed. Over the years, so much had occurred. The biggest let down was finding out Paul was just like the rest. Allowing the little head to dictated their actions.

She was just coming up on her house, when she spotted Kevin’s truck in the yard. She pulled into the driveway. She decided it was time to face off with him. Before she could turn the motor off, Kevin had emerged from the house.

“Oh Baby! Where in the hell have ya been?” He whined. Jane got out of the car, holding up one hand to halt his hug he was going to give.

“Kevin. We need to talk. But not here. Let’s go to a restaurant. I’ll let my Mom know I’m here.” She said as she headed for the house. Kevin didn’t like the way she sounded. She seemed different. More subdued. This doesn’t sound so good.

“As long as I can remember Kevin. It’s has always been you. And you have always shown me your appreciation for my love and loyalty, by kicking me as far in the butt as you could.” She looked cold and hard to him. Kevin took a swish of his beer. Not good at all.

“Well, guess what Kevie? It’s O-V-E-R, over. I’m not your little door mat anymore. I’m filing for a divorce first thing in the morning.” She shot at him. He shifted in his seat, thought for a moment.

“I won’t give ya a dime.” Is the only thing that fall out of his mouth. Jane sat back in her chair, with all the confident of a tigress on the prowl.

“That’s the only thing that could surface in that pea brain of yours? Money isn’t everything Kevie. But know this, I will get what is due me for all the years I have put up with your infidelity. That in itself should get me enough.” She stared hard and long at him. He slowly cradled his head in his hand. He knew she had a good case against him.

Jane said nothing on the trip back to her parents home. She exited from the truck and went into the house, leaving Kevin in the truck pondering his demise. She ran up to her old room. And as years before, laid across the bed as the tears free themselves from the ducts.

Part Eighteen

The next month Jane remained at her parent’s home. She didn’t want to see Kevin. She even refused to watch any of the wrestling shows. Paul was one other person who had failed her. Seeing him or Joanie would bring back that night.

One morning as she went to get out of bed. The room began to swirl about her. Her stomach felt like it was going to come up out of her throat. She crawled back in bed, hoping the room would steady itself.

“Honey! Are you alright?” Her mother’s voice from the other side of the door. It was late and she has never stayed in bed this long before.

“Yes Mom! Come in.” She replied, barely keeping from heaving up her stomach. Her mother opened the door with an worried expression after seeing her lying in bed in this condition.

“Oh honey. Are you sure you’re feeling ok? You don’t look it.” Her mother began to feel about her face, checking her temperature.

“No Mom. Not really. My head is swimming. I feel like throwing my stomach in the garbage. Oh.” She finally told her mother.

“I’m calling Dr. Anderson. See if he can see you today. We need to stop whatever is ailing you.” Her mother told her as she picked up the phone and made an appointment.

“Pregnant!! Did you just say I’m pregnant?” She yelled at the Doctor.

“Jane! Get a grip. What did you think would happened after you got married?” The doctor was trying to be polite.

“But I’m getting a divorce. I don’t want my child to grow up without its father.” She spoke more to herself than to the doctor. He nodded in agreement. He was old and have an old-fashion idea about things.

Jane dressed and told her mother the news as they made their way home. She had mixed feelings about this whole thing. Having the child would be an blessing. But having to endure a life with Kevin would be hard.

She didn’t ask her mother, she knew what she would tell her. She went to her room as her mother broke the news to her father. She sat on the side of the bed, hesitant of calling him. But knowing the right thing to do. She called.

“I promise baby! I’m going to make you very happy. All three of us. You don’t know how lucky I feel. You just don’t know.” Kevin went on and on. He was so glad she had called to tell him. He made his mind up he was not going to blow it this time.

Jane walked through the apartment they lived for three years. It didn’t feel like home to her. Just a place of bad memories. She wasn’t comfortable being back there. Kevin brought in her luggage, hoping this will never happen again. He stood at the door watching as she moved from room to room.

“You know baby! I was thinking. Let’s get us a house. A real home. You, baby and Me. Something nice. I’m tired of these apartments. Wha’cha say?” His face was beaming like a little kid. Jane looked at him and smiled. Just what she was thinking. Maybe this is an omen of things to come.

“I think it’s a great idea Kevin. A very great idea.” She replied as she went to the window staring into space. For some reason, her thoughts flashed to Paul. Then just as quick, left her mind.

The next several months, Kevin had been at Jane’s beck and call. He was an proud father. This was the happiest moment of his life. And it showed. He bragged about becoming a father.

The news got back to Paul, concerning Jane and Kevin having a baby. He felt all hope of them possibly getting together slowly flew into the wind. He could compete against Kevin alone. But not her having his baby. That was impossible. He decided it was time to close that chapter of his life and move on. He did, reluctantly.

Part Nineteen

The Jane was nearing her time. Kevin had hired a housekeeper, cook and Nurse to keep her form having to do much. She was relaxing in the garden when she got an unexpected visitor.

“Joanie?” She looked up into the dark eyes.

“Hi Jane! It’s been a long time hasn’t it?” Joanie smiled. She looked at how big her once friend had gotten.

“Yes it has Joanie. What did I do to deserve this pleasure?” Jane felt a little uneasy. She wasn’t sure why she was there.

“You are my friend Jane. When no one else had been. And that remains over the years. You remember Prom Night and how you helped me? I’m here to see my best friend during most important time of her life.” She sat in a chair next to Jane.

“Yes! I remember Joanie. But there’s something you don’t know.“ Jane felt the tears swell in her eyes. She had to be honest with her. This giant of a woman, forever thinking of others.

“Jane. I know what you’re going to say. Let’s leave it where it is. In the past. Right here and now is what is important. So tell me, do you have any names picked out yet?” Joanie reassured Jane.

“Mrs. N! There’s a phone called for your guest.” The housekeeper announced, making her way into the garden. Jane nodded her head in response.

Joanie seemed puzzled. She followed the housekeeper into the house. Jane sat smiling. She was happy her friendship with Joanie had not faltered. She closed her yes thinking back to the night she spent with Paul.

“Wel, well! So it is true. On miss prissy got herself knocked up.” The familiar voice shot into Jane’s ear. She jumped with a start. Her eyes sprung open to stare into the face of Tori.

“What the Hell are you doing here? How did you get back here?” Jane asked, trying to stay calm.

“That’s my little secret.” Tori retorted. Jane felt herself losing her control.

“I’m going to ask you to leave. NOW!!” She screamed. Tori walked up to her. She was inches from where Jane stood.

“Not until I tell you what I think of you. You are a hypocrite. All I have it all figured out.“ She said slyly. Jane frowned. She had no idea what was going through that devious head of hers.

“You have what figured out? No! Better yet. I don’t want to hear whatever it is. Now get out of here, before I have you thrown out.” Jane couldn’t take it any longer. Always the games with this one. She thought.

“Go ahead. Do it. But it want stop the truth you know in your heart.” Tori continued.

“What? What is wrong with you crazy woman?” She was trembling now. Tori has that affect on her. She knew it was Tori who had called her that night she left Kevin.
“You slept with Paul. and now you’re pregnant. So tell me Jane. Whose the father?” Tori snapped at her.

“Why you Bi$ch!!” Jane screamed louder than before, completely out of controlled, lounging at Tori.

Tori seeing her coming for her, stepped to the side. Jane’s momentum sent her falling pass her and over the stone bench. Tori watched in horror as Jane laid there holding her stomach, grimacing in pain. Tori could hear someone approaching. She fled from the area, leaving Jane.

“That was the weirdest phone call. Jane! Where did she go?” Joanie looked around not seeing her where she left her. Then something out of the corner of her eye, made her look over to Jane lying on the ground, barely conscious.

“Jane! Jane! Somebody HELP!!” Joanie She called out! She tried to comfort Jane as much as she could. Soon the housekeeper came to the doorway and seeing her Mistress lying on the ground, ran back into the house to call for help.

“It’ll be ok Jane. Just hold on. It’ll be alright!” Joanie held her, praying that she and the baby will make it.

Part Twenty

Kevin paced the floor of the waiting room. Joanie had given him the call that Jane was on her way to the hospital. He left as soon as he could to come be at her side. Now he waited for the news of what will happen with her and the baby.

Joanie watched him walking back and forth. She could see he had a great love for Jane. She couldn’t figure out how Jane had fell. Or about that strange phone call. No one knew where she was going. She was jolted out of her thoughts when she saw the doctor coming down the corridor. Kevin had his back to the door.

“Kevin.” She called to him. He turned to her. She pointed to the door. Seeing the doctor, rushed to meet him.

“How is she?” He said  frantically. Joanie stood behind him, holding his arm to calm him down. The doctor gestured with his hand for them to go back in the waiting room.

“She sustained some very serious injuries. Does anyone know how she fell?” The doctor inquired. Kevin looked to Joanie. She shrugged her shoulders, ignorant to the fact.

“I was in the house. I had received an phone call. When I came back, she was lying on the ground in pain. I thought maybe she fell or trip over the bench.” Joanie looked from the doctor to Kevin. The doctor shook his head at the information.

“The injuries are too severe to be just a fall or trip. It looks like she was hit by a the bench.” The doctor enlighten. Joanie and Kevin stared at each other.

“Ok! So she didn’t fall or trip. We’ll have to find out just what happened. But for now. How is she and my baby?” Kevin asked as his eyes shifted from Joanie to the doctor.

“We had to take the baby. He’s in a incubator now. It was a little early. But he’ll be fine. The Mother is the one I’m concern about.” The doctor finish.

“Can I see her?” Kevin asked, fear present in his voice. Joanie cast her eyes to the ground. She could feel his pain. Her friend was in there hurt. And no one understands why. Then a thought flew through her mind.

“Yes you can see her. But don’t upset her. And make it brief.” The doctor advise them. Then he turned and left.

“Coming Joanie?” Kevin asked as he started out the waiting room.

“Ah! No Kevin. You go spend sometime with her. She needs you more than me. Besides, I have something very important to take care of. Then I’ll be back.” She told him. He nodded his head, knowing not to push her. She gave him a strong hug and left him. He stared after her for a moment and shook his head. Then he went to check on his wife and child.

“Tori! I hear Jane and the baby are in the hospital. How in the hell did that happened?” Sean badgered her. Tori took a pull on her cigarette. She stopped clearly nervous.

“I didn’t mean for this to happen. I saw her sitting there in that beautiful home. And all given to her by my Kevin. That should be me, Sean.” She scowled. Sean shook his head.

“Tori, when are you going to get it through your head? Kevin don’t want you. He never did. Now me. Haven’t I been good to you. I’m as good as you going to get. And you better start treating me better or else.” Sean sat in the lounging chair. Tori turned to him.

“Or else what? Sean.” She glared at him. Sean smiled stupidly.

“Or else I’ll tell who it was that was with Jane when she was injured.” He took a swig of his beer, sitting back comfortably. If looks could kill. Sean would speaking to the Devil.

“Oh? Now I wonder what Kevin will feel if he knew you informed me of the baby and were the one who made the phone call to enabled me to sneak into the garden.” She said, coming to stand over him. Sean stood to his feet. They stared each other in the eyes. Neither refusing to give in to the other. Then a knock at the door cause both heads to jerk in the direction of the door.

“Who is that?” Sean asked, not wanting to be found with Tori. She shrugged her shoulders and went to answer it.

“Yes?” She called through the door.

“It’s me, Joanie.” The voice came back from the other side. Both froze on the spot.

Part Twenty-One

Kevin sat in the chair next to Jane‘s bed, resting his head on his arm. he held her hands in his own. The baby had come through as the doctor had mention. But Jane‘s injuries were a little more serious. She had a few bruised ribs. And some trauma to some internal organs. But, with plenty of rest and a stress-free environment, she would make it.

“Jane, baby! Wake up! Please!” Kevin raised his head and whispered in her ear. After he felt her stirring. He had been with her all night. He wouldn’t to leave her side, until he was convinced she would be okay.

Her parents had come up as soon as they had received the call. Her mother visited her for sometime until she felt she was doing well. Then she went to stay near the baby, making sure he wasn’t alone.

She held him close, comforting him. He had to know, he was loved. If his mother couldn’t do it, who better than grandmother to fill in? Tears began to form in her eyes, as she said a prayer for her daughter.

“Paul. I miss you so much.” The words seeped from the dry lips. Kevin looked in horror. Paul? Why would she be thinking of Paul? She hasn’t seen him in years. Or has she? Or maybe she’s just delirious. He thought.

“Oh Paul. Why couldn’t you have been honest with me that night.” She continued. Kevin released the small hands from his grip. His emotions consumed his body. He stood to his feet, tensed with anger and confusion. She was with Paul.

He ran his fingers through his hair and walked over to the window. He began to conform in his mind, her being with Paul. What night could she had been with Paul? Then the lights filled his brains. And an ugly truth formed there.

“Kevin? Where are you?” She cried out, looking around the room. He instinctively ran over to her bed. He caught her hands up in his own once again.

“Shhh, Jane. Calm down.” He said soothingly. She looked bewildered. She wasn’t quite aware of her surroundings. Her eyes were dazed as she stared into his. She knew one thing. She was in a lot of pain.

“The baby? Where is the baby, Kevin?” She asked, remembering the most important thing. Kevin touched her forehead gently, to keep her calm.

“He’s fine babe. Your Mom is with him now.” He informed her. She laid back reluctantly. The pain was too great.

“What happened? The baby wasn’t due for another few weeks.” She moaned with each breath. She had no recollection of the day before. Kevin looked at her. His thoughts slowly vacating his mind. What he felt in his heart, overrule what was in his mind.

This is what was important now. Jane, the baby and him. And nothing Paul could say or do, could ever change that. He had to face it. He was in love with this woman. Or a more appropriate word, obsess.

Sean and Tori scurried around the apartment, not sure what to do with the unexpected arrival of Joanie.  Sean waved her to open the door. She fanned the suggestion off. She didn’t want to deal with her. Finally the constant knocking let them know she had no plans of leaving.

“She can’t see me here. I’m going to sneak out the back way. And Tori. Keep your mouth shut about me.” He glared at her, just before disappearing out the room. Tori squared her shoulders and opened the door,  invited Joanie in.

“So Joanie, what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?” She said sarcastically. Joanie stood with hands on her hips. Her eyebrow lifted, she scanning the room. She knew Sean had been there.

From her info. The two hand become very close over the last year. This all came from her talk with Brian, after she told him what happened to Jane. He was more than happy to help her with the investigation.

And information she picked up from Jane’s neighbor, a woman fitting Tori’s description was see running from the house and jumping into a Explorer where a man sat waiting for her. And he fitted Sean’s description.

“Where’s that weasel Sean? And don’t tell me he isn’t here. I saw his Explorer out front.” Joanie finally breaking her silence. Tori attempted to keep her cool. She lit a cigarette and took a long pull, before blowing it out.

“Look Joanie. I don’t want any trouble. Why are you here?” She asked, trying to be defiant in the face of fear. Joanie glared at her. How dare she speak of not wanting trouble when Jane and her baby are in the hospital due to something she had done.

“Listen to me you witch. I know both you and Sean, where near Kevin and Jane’s house yesterday. She’s now in the hospital due to an accident that occurred in her garden. She supposedly fell. You know anything about it?” Joanie asked, eyes filled with controlled rage. For the moment.

“Oh no! How is she and the baby doing?” She asked, trying to fake concern. Joanie snapped at that moment. Her patience long wore out with the games Tori played.

Before she knew it, she had ran to Tori, grabbing her by both arms and began shaking the daylights out her. Tori’s head bobbed back and forth like a rag doll. Tori felt herself losing consciousness.

Finally, regaining her senses. Tori began to struggle with Joanie. They rolled about the apartment. And, out of desperation. Tori gave Joanie a knee in the stomach, sending her flying backwards, bent over in pain. 

The wind knocked out of her, Joanie laid on the floor. Tori sat a distance from her, staring. She needed to figure out away to get Joanie off her back. She knew it wouldn’t be a moment before she would catch her wind. And then there would be Hell to pay. Then an idea popped in her head. She could kill to birds with one stone. And who better than Joanie to get the deed done.

“Joanie! Listen to me for a moment. You just don’t know what I know. If you did, you would understand why I confronted Jane. I didn’t mean for her to get hurt. Things just got out of hand. You have to believe me.” She said, between breaths.

“You could have killed her and her baby. What knowledge you could have of anything could have made you so angry to harm a pregnant woman?” Joanie said, slowly sitting up and resting against the wall. She stared at Tori, watching the different expressions her face formed. Joanie knew her brain was calculating. It always did.

“Joanie. Sean came to me and told me something, about the baby. And I think you need to know this.” Tori continued. Joanie shifted where she sat, never took her eyes from her.

“What about the baby, Tori?“ She asked, becoming more annoyed.

“Do the math Joanie. You were there when Paul spent the night with her.” Tori said without thinking about the last sentence. She had hit a nerve. Joanie rose to her feet.

“What the hell are you getting at?” She tilted her head, waiting for an answer. Tori swallowed. She had to think fast. She didn’t want another round of Joanie.

“Before you go getting upset, hear me out. Jane and Kevin hadn’t been together for a couple of months before she left that night. The night she ran into Paul at the motel. The same motel you were with him. Remember that night Joanie?“ She said this with the venom of a rattler. Joanie’s mind traveled back to that night. The memories flowed so well through her mind.

Part Twenty-Two

She always knew how much Paul felt for Jane. It was no secret between them. But after she married Kevin, she thought maybe, just maybe they could be together. And for a while it seemed that way.

But then, they saw each other at the motel. Paul didn’t come back to the room that night. She knew then, all that was between them had ended. Then the next morning, he came back in a foil mood.

“Yeah! I remember that night. If it’s any of your business.” Joanie snapped. She felt things didn’t go as planned. They went back on tour, never mentioning the night again.

“Awww! I see by the expression on your face, you do remember something. And you do know what I’m getting at.” Tori words sliced like an sword. Joanie could hardly hold back the emotions that were taking over her logic.

If what Tori suspects is true. The baby belongs to PAUL!! That’s why he is so moody lately. He was thinking it was his, until she went back to Kevin. His hopes were dashed.

“You have a big mouth Tori. That‘s not what happened. She was leaving Kevin that night. She needed Paul to as an friend. That‘s the only reason he stayed that night.” Joanie growled. Her eyes sent darts towards Tori.

“Oh! Is that what HE told you. Then tell me this. Why hasn’t he contacted her since, as a loving friend as you feel he was to her that night.” Tori’s eyes stared at Joanie, taken on an psychotic appearance.

“I’m warning you, you psycho. I’ve just had about enough of you lies. Paul came back to ME!! She told him she didn’t want him because he was with me.” Joanie yelled. Tired of the games she was playing. But then, something in the back of her head surface. When Paul discovered Jane was pregnant and she went back to Kevin. Paul became very moody.

“Wait! Don’t shoot the messenger. You know as well as I do. That baby is Paul’s. It’s not fair she is keeping it from him. And you know it as well as I do. You’re no better than her. Playing with lives the way you two do.” Tori said as she came just a little too close. Without warning. Joanie sent a back hand across her face. She went sailing through the air, stopping abruptly as she crashed into the wall.

Tori shook her head, trying to clear the blackness, that tried to claim her conscious. She slowly turned her head up towards Joanie. She smiled deviously. Mission accomplish. Joanie glanced over to Tori, eyes dark and emotionless. Then without another word, turned and left the apartment.

“That was the most foolish thing you have ever done in your life.” Sean said, entering the room swiftly and heading towards the window, to watch Joanie pull away. Tori lit another cigarette.

“The difference with you Sean, is you’re gutless. You ride on other’s success. Not me. I make my success.” She dragged on the cigarette, confident she had succeeded in what she had tried to do for years.

“Not this time baby. Not this time. All you have done is make it hard for all of us. Paul told Brian in confidence. Brian told me. And like a fool. I told you.” Sean now realized who was using who. He had been had. And for the first time, he realized how deranged Tori was. She would not stopped until they all were as miserable as herself.

“Now we shall see if Paul or Kevin will want her, after they discover her little secret. They’ll see her for what she truly is. As I have always known.” She smiled thinking to herself.

Paul sat in the locker room. His daily workout had been grueling. The news of Jane’s accident had weighed heavily on his mind. He wanted so badly to go see how she was doing. But he dared not. She had made it perfectly clear, she wanted nothing more to do with him. Just then heard the voice of Joanie calling out to him.

“Paul! Paul! Where are you?” From what he could tell. She was very upset about something.

“I’m over hear, Joanie!” He called to her, leaving the bench in search of her. She rounded the corner of the lockers. She still had the red stained eyes from crying. His first thought was something had gone wrong with Jane.

“Joanie, what is it? Is it Jnae?” He asked, grabbing her arms. She knocked both of his hands off her, glaring into his eyes. Filled with unbelief of the years of honesty she felt they held between them. Now slowly flying awya with the winds of reality. Of all the men she had known. She though he was the one who would be true to her.

“Jane is fine, Paul. I just called the hospital. But then, it’s always has been her. I knew that. And I was okay with it. I love you both. Your happiness is all I wanted. And honesty more. I’m going to be leaving Paul. I already spoke with Vince. I’m sure like all men, you’ll find your way.” She told him with no emotion in her voice.

“Wh-what are you talking about?” Paul couldn’t figure out what had brought all of this on. Joanie shook her head.

“Don’t worry about it. I can keep secrets just as much as the next fella. Have a good life. I’m outta of here.” She said, turning to leave. Paul grabbed her arm, swinging her around to him. Their faces just inches away from each other.

“Don’t you dare leave me. You have been the only consistence in my life. I can’t lose you too.” He began to shudder. He would be lost without her friendship. He would be alone. And that is something he has never been. She has been there since the first met back in school. What would he do without her?

“Bye Paul. I have spent years trying to prove my self to two men in my life. First my Dad. Then you. Now it’s time for me to find out what it is Joanie wants. And it’s not what’s here.” She spoke very calm and low, staring deep in his eyes. He knew then, what they had between them were no more.

Paul release his hold on her and stepped back. She nodded once, turned and walked out of his life. His heart broke. He never knew how much he felt for her until this moment. She was his best friend.

His feet buckled under him as he slowly sat down on the bench, not knowing what would it be like, not having her around. First he lost Jane, now Joanie. The two most important women, beyond his mother. That had entered his life. One he was in love with. The other he loved. Life is a bitch!

Part Twenty-Three

Joanie returned to the hospital to see how Jane’s recovery was coming along. She was very relieved to see her doing well. She stuck around for a several days more, assisting her in every way and making sure she suffered no setbacks.

Seeing she was doing much better, Joanie said her goodbyes with a very heavy heart. She explained to Jane, she needed the time to find herself and discover what she truly wanted out of life. Jane was very confused and feeling the loss of her friend. But knew it wasn‘t anything she could do. Joanie had to do what she had to do.

Over the next three years, Jane spent most of her time tending to her son. He made her complete. This was the first and only time she has felt this in her life. Kevin grew jealous of her the attention their son received. He felt it was due to the fact, it may be Paul’s and not his own.

He tried to played the doting husband and father, for a while. Then the wild life called to the beast in him. And something else nagged at him. Since the birth of their child. The attempt for another child failed.

Without the knowledge to Jane. He had himself checked out. He discovered he was infertile. Then he knew, their son wasn’t his. He never disclosed this to Jane. He decided he would play this game of hers to the end.

Jane was out in the garden with her son, when she received an unexpected visitor. Brian. It had been years since the two had spoken. She knew he never cared for the fact she married Kevin. He was an loyal friend to Paul.

“Brian! How are you?” She squeal, running to him and wrapping her arms about his neck. He laughed picking her up in his arms giving her an overdue hug.

“Jane, girl. I’m doing just fine, thank ya. How’s it going?” He asked, finally lowering her to the ground. He stepped back to get a good look at her.

“That is good to hear Brian. It’s so good to see your  friendly face again.” She said to him, leading him to the garden table and offering him a chair. Brian looked over to the young boy playing in the grass with his toys. He caught his breath for a split second.

“Your son, Jane?” He asked, not able to take his eyes from him. Jane smiled and nodded, never seeing his expressions.

“Yes! My pride and joy.” She answered, gazing on the her child. Brian couldn’t take his eyes from him. He looked so much like.

“So Brian. What brings you here after such a long absence?” She interrupted his thoughts. Brian quickly turn to her, trying to shake the thoughts running through his mind.

Sean had told him of the day Jane had her son. And how Joanie came to confront Tori. He was told of what Tori had said to her, concerning the possibility the child had been Paul’s. But now seeing him. He knew.

“It’s Paul, Jane. I know you haven’t seen him in three years. I know of the reason why. But I’m not here to discuss them. I’m here because Paul needs your friendship now.“ He explained, if she even cared anymore. Jane stared at him, not saying a word.

“I wouldn’t have come if I didn’t think it was necessary. Paul has been losing his mind since he lost both Joanie and you.” Brain continued. Jane turned her head away and stood to her feet. Brian never took his eyes off her. He was hoping she could make a difference.

“Why did you come to me, Brian? Why not to Joanie? I’m married to Kevin. You know how those two hate each other. If he found out I went to see Paul. Do you know what the consequences would be?” She said, nervously. She slowly left the table and went to her son. Brian stared after her.

“Joanie is out of the country. She’s on some shoot and can’t comeback right now.” Brian explained. Jane took her son into her arms, holding him for dear life.

“What is wrong with Paul, Brian?” She asked softly. Brian rose from his seat and went to stand next to her.

“He’s taking up with the bosses daughter. She’s an ambition controlling little....... I don’t even want to say the word in your presence.” He told her.

“Oh.” She replied. Neither her or Joanie are around, yet he has filled his gap with someone else.

“No Jane. It’s not what you think. It’s all about the business and filling his time and energy. You two were the ones who kept him grounded. Joanie with her friendship. And you, with the love he held in his heart.” Brian, turned her so she could see his face, as he try to make her understand the feelings he had for them both.

The tears began to from in her eyes. Paul has always remained in her heart. He has always been there for her when she needed him. How could she not, help him. Now that he needed her.

“I’ll see what I can do, Brian.” She looked at him, then to her son. Brian nodded his head. Neither saw Kevin standing in the doorway, listening in on the conversation.

“So she’s going to see the father of her baby. Not if I can help it.” Kevin took a gulp of his beer, turned and left the house. He didn’t want them to discover he had been home.

Part Twenty-Four

Paul and Stephanie McMahon, sat in the small restaurant. They were so engross with one another, neither saw the tall figure entered the establishment. Nor as he made his way over to their table.

The shadow, overcasting their table, soon caught their attention. Both turned from each other, to the person the shadow emanated from.

“Kevin? What are you doing here?” Paul was the first to break the silence. Kevin shifted on from one leg to the other. Paul could see clearly he wasn’t here for any good reason.

“I’ll ask you again. Why are you here?” Paul rose from the table, stepping between Kevin and the table. Shielding Stephanie.

I’ll tell you why I’m here, Paul! Your good friend Brian came to see MY wife today. Something about you hanging out with the tramp over there.” He said, pointing to Stephanie. And never looking her way when she let out a gasp. Paul clenched his fist.

“Whoa! Before you get any ideas about pounding on me. Let me explain something.” He told Paul, raising his hands in defense.

“Okay Kevie! You explain why my friend felt it necessary to go to your wife and tell her I’m with anyone.” Paul’s curiosity was spiked. Kevin smiled. He knew that would catch his interest. As far as Jane was concerned. Paul would always listen. Kevin knew this too well.

“I don’t want to offend the little lady anymore than I have. But there are some things we need to discuss that’s better kept private.” Kevin said, acknowledging Stephanie for the first time. Paul looked back at her. She looked to him curious to what the story is between him and Kevin’s wife. Paul turned from her and back to Kevin.

“Alright Kevin. I’ll give you a few moments. But you better not be wasting my time.” Paul said, then beckon for Stephanie to leave. She stared at him for a moment, then gather her things and stomped out of the restaurant.

“She seems like an live one. Sure you can handle that?” Kevin made light of the situation. He had been drinking.

“Don’t worry about what I can handle and what I can’t. Just get on for the reason you’re here.” Paul snapped. Kevin took in a long breath through his nose. Then took a seat across from where Paul was sitting.

“Yeah, you’re right. I don’t give a damn about who you’re screwing. As long....as.....its.....not.......my....WIFE!!!” Kevin said slowly, yelling the last word. Paul, glared at him. Then it sunk in. He knew about the night he spent with Jane. Now he wanted retribution for it.

“Kevin. What happened was a long time ago. You have her and your son. Why are you here today?” Paul tried to calm the situation. Kevin looked down at his hands. His jaw working. The he looked up to Paul.

“Do I Paul?” He asked. Paul was confused.

“Yeah, you do.” Paul said, still bewildered by this man on across from him. Then even stranger. Kevin began to laugh. Paul sat back, staring at him.

“Little that you know.” He continued to laugh. Paul shook his head, even more dumbfounded. He felt the liquor was finally going to Kevin’s head.

“I don’t understand.” Paul said, hoping he would shed some light.

“I know now you don’t. I don’t have a wife Paul! She doesn’t love me. I’ve tried everything I know how to make her love me. But always, it’s you. When she ran away from me. Whose arms did she run to? Yours.” Kevin began to weep. Paul looked at him.

“But Kevin. You never gave her a chance. It’s well known of your infidelity. What did you expect from a woman like Jane. Any man would be ecstatic to have someone like her. And don’t mention such a beautiful child.” Paul let in on him. Kevin’s emotion changed in a flash. His head raised, eyes taking in Paul.

“Any man, Paul? Or you?” Kevin’s tears abruptly stopped, as if they never were.

“You want the truth, Kevin. Yeah, I would love to have her and that boy.” Paul admitted his love for Jane. Kevin’s eyes flared.

“Then you can have her and your little bastard.” Kevin shot back at him. Paul eyes grew large. For the first time, it was made known.

“Kevin, you’re drunk. No way he’s mine. Jane wouldn’t keep me from what is mine. Now go home to your wife and child.” Paul shook his head. Not knowing how pathetic Kevin truly was.

“No she wouldn’t. She has no idea. I do. I took some tests. We had failed attempts to have more children. And guess what? It’s not mines. The child belongs too you. And you know what? Go look at him. Go. You have my permission. See for yourself. He looks just like you.” Kevin finished, staring at the expression changing over Paul’s face. Paul thought for a moment, then stared back at Kevin, who nodded his head. Paul couldn’t believe it. The child was his.

“OMG, Kevin!! What are you saying?” Jane’s voice filled the air. The two men’s heads snapped in her direction. There she stood, hands covering her mouth. Eyes larger than life. Brian standing by her side, just as stunned with the announcement.

Twenty-Five

“OMG, Kevin!! What are you saying?” Jane’s voice filled the air. The two men’s heads snapped in her direction. There she stood, hands covering her mouth. Eyes larger than life. Brian standing by her side, just as stunned with the announcement.

“Ah! Jane, baby! Let me explain.” Kevin came over to her quickly. She stepped back, blocking him from touching her.

“I can’t believe this. What are you saying?? He’s not yours, because you were tested for fertility.” She yelled at him

“I wanted to tell you. But I was afraid of losing you, babe.” Kevin admitted. Jane felt her temperature rising.

“OMG!! OMG!! Is this the reason you’re here? To inform you weren’t the father but he is. And yet, you never could tell me.” Then realization set in. Jane new one thing. She was angrier than she had been in her life.

“You know Kevin. I have put up with a lot from you. But I always came back to you. But this has been the lowest You have ever stooped. How dare you refer to my child as an bastard.” She yelled louder, slapping his face as hard as she could.  Kevin went backwards, stunned at the power the little woman packed.

“Jane! I......” He couldn’t say anything. He knew this time she would leave and never come back. He finally broke the camels back. He never looked at her again. He just left without another word. Brian looked over to Paul and felt it was time for him to take his leave.

“Jane. I’m so sorry about all of this.” Paul said, keeping his distance. Not sure she was angry with him as well. She took a seat at an empty table. For the first time, she realized they had made a scene in the small restaurant. The other customers resumed their meals, murmuring.

“I’ve never been so embarrassed in my life. I came here to help you out. Maybe I should have tended to my affairs. Look, I got to go. You’re grown. Do whatever you choose with your life. And I’ll do the same with mine.” Jane told him as she got up and ran out of the restaurant. Paul followed in suit.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa. We need to discuss something very important. My son!” Paul said to her, catching her by the arm, as they made their way outside.

“No Paul! He’s my son. I don’t need you are Kevin. All you two have done is screwed up my life. I want nothing to do with any of you.” She turned and spewed this at him.

“No, Jane! Not this time. I’ve let you wander away from me, making decisions I knew were wrong for us. Now there is someone else who deserves better than that. And I want you to know. He will get it. Whether you like it or not.” This is the first time Paul had shown this side of himself to her. She stood in shock. They stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity. Jane was quite sure where to go with this.

“Paul!” Stephanie called to him making her way down the street. The trance between them broken.

“Paul! What are you doing? And who is this?“ She asked, looking Jane up and down.

“This is Jane. Kevin’s wife.“ Paul explained. Stephanie looked her over once again. Then she looked at Paul and the way he continued to stare at her. She had heard some rumors why Joanie had left him. Something of a small blonde beauty he loved. And from what he could see in front of her. This definitely had to be her.

“So you’re the one.“ She finally said. Jane looked at her puzzled to what the meaning of the statement was about.

“I’m sorry! But I don’t know what you mean by, I’m the one.“ Jane shot back at her. Stephanie could see she had a lot of fire. No wonder he loved her. But, he was hers now. And unlike Joanie. She wasn’t going off into the sunset and aloow her to live happily ever after with Paul.

“The one who ran Joanie away. Everyone is talking about you. And the child that may or may not be Kevin’s.“ She let slip out of her mouth before she knew it.

‘Stephanie. Shut the hell up!!” Paul yelled at her. Jane looked. She was being talked about and never knew it. Everyone knew it was an possibility the baby wasn‘t Kevin‘s before her.

Now she knew what it was she needed to do. Jane turned and ran to her car. Paul was involved with trying to tend to Stephanie, before he realized she was pulling off.

“Jane! Wait! We need to talk about our child. Please!” Those were the words echoing in her ear as she pulled away.

Twenty-Six

“What the HELL were you thinking?” Paul turned to Stephanie, the rage swelling up in him. He knew she was callus. But never did he think she would hurt anyone who had nothing to do with the business.

“Paul! I-I-I wasn’t thinking. I mean.....I-I-I saw you with her and suddenly I felt this jealousy taking over my mind. I’ve heard of this woman before.” Stephanie tried to plead her case.

“I’ve heard things about you too. But I came to you anyways. Hurting Jane was the biggest.....mistake.........you have every........made!! You make me sick! I don’t want to see you! I don’t want to talk to you anymore.” Paul turned heading for his car.

Stephanie ran behind him trying to explain. She jumped in the car. He never responded to her. He decided he would go to Jane and get her back. Stephanie continue yelling at him.

“Paul! Paul! Listen to me!” She yelled. Paul continue to ignore her.

“Listen to me, DAMMIT!!” She screamed. Paul’s thoughts were on Jane and his son.

“Alright! Go to her! But you understand this one thing. I’ll make so you’ll never work in another Wrestling Fed again.” Her voice now cold and calm. Now she had his attention.

“Go ahead! Do what ya got to do!” He yelled back at her. The anger stinging he ears.

“Let me out of here!” She demanded. Paul turned away from her.

“Let me out of here!” She cried once again. Paul looked at her like she had lost her mind.

“I will as soon as I get you home!” He told her. Her anger took of her good sense. She pulled the door knob down to jump out of the car. Paul turned quickly and grabbed her before she made the biggest mistake in her life.

Paul pulled the door closed, daring her to try it again. At that moment, he spotted a woman with her child crossing the street. Instinctively, he was able to turned the steering wheel, avoiding the two pedestrians.

The car swirled out of control. Rolling over and over. Coming to a stop. All was viewed was a heap of smoke and sparks. On lookers rush to the aid of the victims trapped in the car. They saw that the two were unconscious and badly hurt.

Jane made it back to her home. Kevin was there waiting. She passed by him without a word. She was finished with trying to make this farce of an marriage work. She began to gather her sons and hers things. Only taking as much as she could carry. Kevin sat in his chair, drinking his liquor of choice. He knew it was no stopping her.

Jane took one last look of her home. Then a long last glance at Kevin. It’s finally over. This part of her life had come to a sad ending. But a better life was just beginning. Her beautiful Son and her.

She drove away from her home and the one she thought she would be with forever. As she drove down the road, she watched an ambulance speed by, going in the opposite direction. She hoped whoever they were going to pick up were alright. Suddenly, she felt a foreboding feeling engulf her.

“My God!! I wonder what this dread that has taken me over. Maybe the end of my life as I know it. And the path into the unknown.” She whispered. She looked over to her son, feeling life for him will be a good one. She will definitely see to that.

Part Twenty-Seven

It has been four years since she started her new life. Jane felt never in her adult life has she, as over the last four years. If there were any regrets. It has been Paul never tried to contact her and his son.

“Oh well! I did make it seem as if I didn’t want to have anything to do with him. But I just thought........maybe........just maybe.......for his son’s sake.” She grew silent, looking over at her son, watching his favorite cartoon show.

Jane’s attention on him was interrupted by a knock at her door. She wonder who could be calling on her, since no one knew her whereabouts. Except her family.

“Joanie!!” Jane yelled. It had been so long since they had seen each other. After all, she was her son’s Godmother. The two hugged and Jane invited her in. Joanie looked over at the boy.

“Wow Jane! Has it been that long?” She walked into the room where he sat in front of the TV.

“Yeah! I’m afraid it has.” She followed her and took a seat in a chair, observing the two. Joanie couldn’t get over how much he resembled Paul.

“So how are things in Hollywood, Calif?” Jane was curious of the city. Joanie took her eyes from the boy, who seemed to fixed on his show to pay them any attention.

“Things are going well! I have some great parts in some movies coming up.” She told her. Jane was excited and wanted to hear about them.

“Tell me more!” She was like a child meeting her favorite celebrity. Joanie seem to drift off to a place far from where she sat.

“Joanie? What’s wrong?” She asked, seeing something was on her friend’s mind. Joanie shifted in her seat. Then she turned to Jane, a serious expression overtaking her face.

“My birthday is in a couple of days. I’m going to have a few close friends over. I thought maybe you would come and help me celebrate.” She looked at her friend uncertain of what her answer would be.

“I don’t know Joanie. I don’t have anyone to watch Jason.“ Jane express to her. She really wanted to go. But she didn’t want to leave her son.

“Bring him with you. It will be a nice little vacation for the both of you. And the place is large enough. I’ll hire a Nanny for the weekend. You’ll be able to have fun and check on him at the same time.” Joanie suggested. Jane thought about, looking over at her son. Then she turned to a patiently waiting Joanie.

“Well! I guess we could. I haven’t done much socializing in a while. And I would love to see your pad. I saw some of it when you did the bit on MTV.” Jane letting Joanie know she had followed her career, after she left her seven years ago.

“Really? Well, I haven’t quite been honest with you. I too have known how everything were going on with your son and yourself. Since the day I left.”  Joanie confessed.

“You have? How?” Jane was surprised. But then it dawned on her. How did she know where she lived? Then she realized.

“Your parents. I’ve written them constantly. They were the only true parents I had. They were there when I needed some roots. I asked them not to tell you. So don’t think they were holding back on you. They were just following my wishes.” Joanie looked at her, hoping she understood. Jane smiled. She knew her parents. They always respected the wishes of others.

“Yeah I do. I hope I can be as good a parent to my son, as they were to me. So you kept up with them. I bet that made them feel good.” Jane’s mind drifted back to how much she missed being home.

“Yeah it did. And so that you will know. I asked them if they would give me your address. I wanted to surprise you with my visit. And hoped you would come to California to help me celebrate my birthday. They thought it would be a good thing for you.” Joanie replied. Jane felt jubilant.

“California here we come!” She shouted, grabbing her son up over her head, dancing about the room. Joanie watched silently. Her thoughts lied somewhere else.

“I hope you understand all that I’m doing.” She whispered to herself.

Part Twenty-Eight

Joanie, Jane and Jason, made the two hour plane ride to Hollywood, California. It was a very pleasant ride, except initially Jason panic as the plane made its ascent. But Jane soon calmed him. He peered out the window. She described everything as a jumbo puzzle. He got a huge enjoyment out of watching everything pass y at such speed. His love for airplanes grew.

Joanie sat in her seat silent, observing her friend and son preoccupied with interacting with each other. Her thoughts lied in the next night at her party. And what the results would be, with her intervention.

“Joanie. What has you so quiet? You hardly spoke one word since the flight.” Jane had allow Jason to stare out the window. She turned to converse with her friend when she noticed she was far away from her surroundings. Jane remembered the same expression back at her house.

“Nothing Jane. Well, nothing but getting the preparation for tomorrow night.” Joanie caught off guard and recovering very quickly. Jane nodded her head in agreement.

“Well, you’re not alone. I’m here to help you. So put the worrying away. We’re going to have a great time.” Jane told her. Joanie smiled and nodded her head.

‘If only she knew what awaited her. Would she be so thrill?’ Joanie thought to herself.

The plane finally landed into the famous LAX! Jason was thrill to be in the big city. He looked at all the people as the scurried along with their various tasks. Jane was just as in awed, as they made their way through the huge airport and out to a waiting limousine.

“Joanie! For us?” She asked. Joanie looked at her and smiled, as the driver opened the doors for them and began to load their luggage into the trunk of the car. Jane just stared at Joanie, completely speechless. Her friend had done very well for herself.

Joanie began explaining who lived where as they made their way to her home. Jane listened intensely, as well taking in the view of the beautiful homes they pass. Finally, the came up to a rod iron gate. The driver pushed a button in the car and the gates slowly opened inward. The driver proceeded up the winding road. There in there path lied the home Jane had saw on MTV. Joanie’s place of residence.

“The maid will show you to your room. I know you will want to get some rest before dinner.” Joanie turned to Jane and Jason. She could see they both were exhausted.

“Yeah, I am and Jason for sure. We’ll see you at dinner.” Jane replied and turned to follow the maid to their room.

Jane woke a few hours later. Jason was remained fast to sleep. Jane decided to let him get a little more rest. She left the room to go see what help Joanie may need to for her party.

Jane headed down the stares, in search of Joanie. Her home was certainly one huge place. She noticed the maid and asked where she could fine Joanie. She told her she was in her study and directed her to it.

“So you’re definitely coming, right?” Joanie asked the person on the other line.

“Good! You won’t regret it. It’s about time you came out to see the world. I know it’s been tough since the accident, but you have to know you’re loved. More than you will ever know.” Joanie continue talking to the person on the other line.

“Okay! Bye until tomorrow. Love you always, Paul.” Joanie finished. Jane had come in on the conversation. She backed up when she heard Paul’s name mentioned.

‘Accident? Paul was in an accident? Oh my God! And he’ll be here tomorrow. No wonder he never contacted us.’ Jane thought to herself. Joanie has some explaining to do.


Part Twenty-Nine

“What it this about Paul and an accident?” Jane stood in the doorway. Joanie’s head twirled around from the desk she sat, staring bewilderedly at Jane.

“Jane! Please don’t ask me. I can’t tell you anything.” Joanie said sadly. She wanted to so much.

“You brought my son and I out here for a reason. Didn’t you?” Jane moved into the room towards Joanie. Joanie stood to her feet, looking at the woman half her size.

“Yes! Someone had to do it. You two were meant for each other. Both of you are so DAMN proud. I thought if you could see each other at the party you could reconcile.” Joanie began to explain. Jane pondered for a moment.

“So he’s coming?” Jane asked, walking away from Joanie and looking out the window.

“Yes! But if you decide you want to go home, it’s ok. He doesn’t know you are his son is here. It was suppose to be an surprise for you both.” Joanie said, sounding a little dejected. Jane turned back to her friend.

“Joanie I’m so sorry for everything. You always knew it was his son and yet you continue to love us both.” Jane stated. Joanie looked at her with tears forming in her eyes.

“You have always been a friend. I always knew where both of your hearts lied. My problem with him was he could have been more honest about his feelings and that night you two were together.” Joanie explained.

“Yeah all concern could have been honest. Look where we have all come over the years.” Jane sat down near Joanie, thinking about the past.

“But it’s left up to us to see that the next years will be as they should.” Joanie interjected. Jane nodded in agreement. It is time for her son to meet his father. She owed him that much.

The next day found the house up in an uproar! Joanie nervously sputtered around baking out orders to all her hired help. Jane tried to keep a cool head, despite the fact she was thinking a lot of seeing Paul once again.

“Calm down Jane! It’s not like this is a blind date or something like that. Who am I fooling? We left each other on bad terms. I told him to stay away from me. He did that.” Jane ponder as she put the finishing touches to the table.

“Well, I finally got everything put together. I guess we should go up and get ready. The guests will be arriving in an hour.” Joanie entered the dining area. She looked exhausted.

“Yeah I think you’re right. What time will the Nanny arrive?” Jane asked. Just at that moment the front doorbell rung.

“I think just about now.” Joanie replied. They could hear the maid answering the door and directing someone into the dining area.

They young woman entered. Jane took and instant liking to the woman. She was as small as her, very petite. Long blond hair and the bluest eyes. Joanie smiled. She had hand picked this one. She found the resemblance of Jane and this one, uncannying.

“Hi! My name is DL! I’ll be attending your child tonight.” She introduced herself to Jane. They both shook hands and Jane led her away to meet Jason. Joanie laughed. ’They never even noticed.’ She thought to herself and made her way to her room to prepare for her night’s event.

Part Thirty

Jason took to DL like she was family. Jane was surprise at his reaction. He never warms up to people as quick as he had DL!! But then she too had found the young woman pleasant.

Jane looked at herself a hundred times in the mirror. She checked her figure out. She thought she wasn’t as slim as her high school years. She took off one dress and put on another. She viewed herself each time, only to take the dress off and throw it across the bed.

DL watched from the adjoining room Jason occupied. Finally, seeing she was needed elsewhere, left little Jason watching his cartoons and entered the room where Jane sat on the bed disgusted.

“What’s wrong?” She asked. Jane looked up at her from the edge of the bed she sat.

“I’m fat! Look at me! I don’t look right in any of my dresses.” She exclaimed. DL shook her head, having saw her in every dress she had tried on.

“You’re not fat. Maybe not as you were when you were a teenager, but who is? I saw you in everyone of those dresses. You were gorgeous. Give yourself some slack. The man you’re looking to see will be knocked flat on his butt. It’s for sure.” DL told her, picking out one she thought Jane looked the best in.

She handed this one to her and assist her with it on. She helped her with her hair and accessories. Jane went over to the mirror to see the results of their labor. She looked over to DL and then back to the mirror. DL was pleased she could help her out.

“You like?” DL asked.

“Yes I do! I think we have the start of a beautiful friendship.” Jane turned to her smiling.

“Yeah, me too!” DL returned the smile.

Jane left the room, giving Jason a kiss goodnight, knowing he would be sleep by the time she came back to the room. She could hear many of the guests had already arrived.

She stood at the banister for a few moments, gathering her nerves for her reunion with Paul. The music and laughter floated up to her, inviting her to join the gaiety.  She made her way down the steps. She wondered if Paul was there now.

“Jane! Come meet some of my guests.” Joanie called to her, seeing her stepping down off the last step. She entered the room full of guest as more began to arrive.

Joanie took Jane around to most of the people attending the affair. Jane felt slightly uncomfortable in the presence of  some of the more well know guests. Others she knew from time being married to Kevin.

But the film industry was new to her, it took some getting use to. They all seem to be pretty nice people. But still, the discomfort remained. All the time she was being introduced to each person, her eyes scanned the room for signs of Paul. And felt a great disappointment when she didn’t see him.

She left the house, making her way out onto the pool area. She noticed some were in the jacuzzi conversing. Others sat in the lounging chairs by the poolside. She went over to a empty table and chair. She sat and watched as a couple of people swam back and forth in the pool. She never knew someone sat in the shadows, watching.

Part Thirty-One

Jane made her way out onto the patio and to the pool area. Many of the guest were out enjoying themselves. It seem Joanie had invited all of California to this bash. Jane continued her walk by the pool, observing a couple making out in the jacuzzi. She smiled and continue on. But unknown to her, someone she knew had just spotted her.

“Jane! Jane! Is that you?” The familiar voice boomed to her ears. She wasn’t sure she was hearing right. Her head turned quickly to greet the caller.

“Brian?” She watched as he came from the bush he sat behind with a woman. They had secluded themselves there on the brick wall surrounding the upper landscape.

“My God girl, where have ya been?” Brian grabbed her up into his arms hugging her tight. She returned the gesture. Sitting her down turned to the woman standing next to him.

“Candy, this is Jane. Jane meet my wife, Candy.” He introduced the two. The woman smiled pleasantly at Jane and offered her a hand. Jane took her hand in her own.

“Hi Candy. Nice to meet you.” Jane said to her. She nodded in reply.

“I can’t believe you’re here. How did Joanie get you to come. It’s been, what nearly three years since I see ya last.” Brian went on.

“Yeah! It’s been that long. How have you been?” She asked, hoping somehow this would lead to information on Paul.

“I’ve been wonderful Jane. As you can see.” Brian pulled his wife closer too him, looked down into her eyes and smiled. Jane could see he was very in love. She was happy for him.

“Yeah! I am so happy you have each other.” She told them both.

“Thank you Jane. You are everything Brian has said.” Candy interjected. Jane blushed.

“You’re welcome and thank you.” Jane replied. She looked away when Brian planted a kiss on his wife’s lips. Jane could see they wanted to be alone.

“Well, I guess I’ll go wander around a bit. It was good to see you again, Brian. And nice meeting you Candy.” Jane said to them.

Brian caught something in her eyes as she moved away from them. He bent down and whispered something to his wife. She looked over to Jane and nodded to him. She left to go into the house, leaving him with his friend.

“Jane! Wait! Come with me.” He said, catching up to her and taking her arm into his hand. Jane was started at first but relax as she walked beside him. He took her to a place in the huge garden. They sat down on a bench.

“I know you want me to talk about Paul. But I tried that three years ago. And it blew up in my face big time. I never expected the outcome of that day. It has haunted me even until this day.” Brian said solemnly. Jane caught it. She figured he was talking about the accident.

“The accident you mean.” She added. Brian’s eyebrows came together on that phrase.

“Accident? You know about the accident?” He asked, staring an hole in her.

“Actually very little. I overheard Joanie talking to Paul. She mentioned it. That’s all I know. Nothing More.” She explained, looking at him for more information. Brian turned away from her, breathing a sigh of relief.

“Oh I see.” He said. At that moment, his wife appeared in the clearing, Jane didn’t see her. Brian did. He slightly gave her a nod of his head, in response. Then she disappear as quickly as she had appeared.

“Well Jane. I better be getting back to my lovely wife before some of these Hollywood wolves snatch her away.” Brian stood to his feet and offered his hand to Jane. She took it and they walked from the garden, but headed in the direction his wife had left.

They rounded a corner of bushes. Jane continued walking and talking, never noticing she was alone at the pool side once again. Until she looked up! She looked around for Brian, he was nowhere to be found.

“That Brian. Always full of tricks.” She said to herself. She went to take a step, when she saw a man sitting at a table right in front of her. It was no mistake. It was Paul!

Part Thirty-Two

“Paul?” Jane could hardly utter the words. His head pulled up to look at the woman standing before him. His eyes wondered away for a moment. Then they came back to settle on her.

“Jane?” He finally spoke. His voice deep and husky. How well did she remember that voice.

“Joanie never told me you would be here. I guess I’ll have to talk to her about that later.” He continued. His eyes never left hers. Jane took a small gulp, trying to moisten her drying throat. It had been a long time since they had talked. She felt a little awkward.

“Come sit. No need to stand there. I won’t bite.” He said. Jane noted a tint of annoyance in his voice. There was something different about him. More crude then she remembered. More like unto Kevin.

“I don’t know. I wouldn’t want to intrude on your privacy.” She replied. He looked at her and blew out some air from his nose. More like a snort, Jane noticed.

“How much privacy can you get here. This is a party, Jane. If I wanted to be alone, why would I have shone up at the damn thing?” He continued. Then he took his glass of drink and gulped it down.

There was a bottle sitting on the table. Jane hadn’t noticed it before. She looked at him as he poured another and did as he had done with the other. Without a pause in between. Yes, she thought. He was more like Kevin.

“I don’t want to give you any advice or anything.” She started. He was taking a third drink, then gave her an long look. Jane felt a chill run up her back. This wasn’t her Paul. He had changed into someone she just ran from.

“Then don’t.” He snapped. She felt her heart breaking. The tears began to form in her eyes. He saw them and looked away.

“Look Jane. I don’t want to hurt you anymore than I have. I know you feel you need to watch over me like back in school. Those were years ago. Another time and place. We were just kids. Over the years we have all changed. Some for the better. And others for the worst. Let’s just leave the past, in the past.” He told her, taking another drink. Jane could see he was going to get drunk. And from what she could see, it wasn’t going to be pretty. She decided to leave him to himself.

“You’re right. No sense continuing to live in the past. It’s gone and over. I won’t bother you any longer. Bye Paul. It was nice seeing you again.”  She slowly, moved from the table. Paul watched her walk away, knowing it had finished. She was gone from him forever.

Brian and his wife emerged from the garden, having witnessed the exchange between the two. He walked up to his buddy since childhood. He regretted taking part in this little scene.

Candy went behind Paul and handed him his cane. Brian assisted his friend to his feet. Paul with the aide of the cane, limped sluggishly from the pool side and out the side gate. He decided it was time to leave.

Joanie had watched Jane go up the stairs. She went over to the door leading out to the pool and saw her three friends leaving. She looked dejected to the ground. She was hoping Paul would tell her the truth.

Jane entered her room, ran and fell on her bed, allowing the stream of her heartbreak to finally burst through. She remembered back to the day she had come in crying because Kevin had betrayed her. This was worst. She had lost the only man she had truly love. In more ways than one.

Part Thirty-Three

Jane woke with the birds singing joyously outside her window. DL had taken Jason down to breakfast and they were now in the yard playing. She watched from the window.

Her mind went back to her meeting with Paul. She felt the tears flowing down her cheeks without effort. She decided then to go back to her life. Too bad he will never see his son.

She took a shower and after dressing, pulled out her luggage to pack. As she was packing up Jason’s things, Joanie knocked at the door. She called to her to come in. Joanie watched in silence as her friend throw one piece of clothing into the luggage after another. She could clearly see Jane was upset.

“I’m sorry Jane. I just thought.........” She stopped, eyes cast to the floor. Jane held up on her packing enough to see Joanie was feeling guilty concerning her part in this situation.

“Joanie stop! You did what any good friend would do. You felt we had a good chance of rekindling what we had. It seems that old flame was doused years ago. None of us knew until last night. So please, don’t beat yourself up for trying. And we got a chance to take a nice vacation. How ever short.” Jane told her. Joanie half heartedly smiled.

“Ok! I won’t. I’m just glad you got a chance for closure.“ She said and left her to finish packing. At that moment DL came in with Jason.

“Oh! You’re leaving already?“ She looked confusingly around the ramshackle rooms.  Jane turned to her, realizing what her leaving meant to DL.

“Ah! DL! I was thinking. Do you have other assignments?” Jane asked. DL looked even more confused than before.

“No? But they do come on an daily basis.” She answered, watching Jane conjuring up something in her mind.

“I was thinking if you would be my permanent Nanny! You are so good with Jason. I watched you two in the yard. But you will have to come stay with us. We live on the east coast. So?“ Jane’s eyes pleaded in hopes she would say yes. DL walked over to the window, thinking all this would mean to her.

“Oh why not? At least it would be something steady.” The tow hugged each other jumping up and down. They were so happy their friendship would continued.

“Mommy! Daddy came to see me last night.” Jason blurted out from his room. Jane stopped cold. Kevin was here? She thought.

“Kevin came here to see my son?” Jane turned to DL.

“No! He said his name was Paul and that he was Jason’s father.” DL explained. Jane caught her breath. He had come up to the room. But when?

“He came in right after you left out. I’m surprise neither of you saw the other.” DL continued, assisting with the packing. Jane froze. Had he seen her leave?

“No we didn’t I guess. I did talk to him downstairs.” She said barely audible. He had seen his son. Yet he didn’t want to be with them. Well, screw him.

“What happened to his leg?” DL asked. Jane looked to her.

“What? What do you mean?” She asked, bewildered. Then she remembered the accident.

“He could barely walk. He needed a cane and barely got around with it. I had to help him down the stairs. Then some woman saw us and came over to help him out to the pool.” DL informed her. Jane felt something running through her heart. Pity, love, she had no idea.

But she knew now all was staged for her benefit. She rushed from the room, in search of Joanie.

“Joanie! No more secrets. Is Paul still wrestling?” She shot at her point blank. Joanie couldn’t recover in time. Or didn’t choose too.

“No he isn’t Jane. He left the business after the accident. He couldn’t deal with the fact he would never be able to get in the ring again. He’s barely walking. But he has made progress over the years.” She explained. Jane looked and listened.

“He was in a wheelchair? He wanted this career so bad. Did you know he went up to the room?” Jane looked at her friend.

“Yeah! He got here and decided he wanted to leave. Too many people he new. He didn’t want the sympathy. I had to tell him. He wanted to see his son. I took him up stairs. He waited for you to leave.” Joanie turned her eyes from Jane. What else could she have done.

“Then he decided to blow me off.” She said. Jane turned away from Joanie, staring into space.  Joanie said nothing. Then suddenly, Jane turned to her friend.

“Let me borrow your limousine. I’m sure your driver knows the way to Paul’s house. Joanie came to her feet.  And quickly called her driver to bring the limo around and instructed him where to go. Jane was already waiting on the porch when he arrive.

Before he could exit the car to open the door for her, she had already enter the car. He stared at his mistress, who shrugged her shoulders. They pulled away. A happy Joanie waved to them. Finally, her friend was taking charge of the situation.

Part Thirty-Four

Jane sat in back of the limousine, thinking how she was going to handle this situation. She knew why Paul had not contacted her all these years. And how he had blown her off the night before. All about his pride. She wringed her hand in anticipation, as they drove down the road.

After the accident, Brian called Joanie, by Paul’s request. She dropped everything and came to see about him. That’s when he was informed he wouldn’t be walking for a while, if ever. He moved to California to be near Joanie. She has been the good friend, urging him on. Now he was up walking with a cane, however unsteady his gait.

They pulled up to his home, Jane was surprise to see he lived in an upscale part of town. The gates were opened, so they drove right in. They then parked in the driveway at Jane’s command. She jumped out of the car, once again, before the driver could exit the car.

Jane slowly walked up the driveway to the front door. She wasn’t sure this was an good idea now. But, Paul was her friend since childhood. He had always been there to cheer her up during those low points in her life. Now it was her turn to be there for him.

She hesitantly raised her hand to ring the doorbell. Only for a moment as her need to help her friend overtook any other thoughts. She pushed the small button, ringing the bell. A maid answered the door. Jane requested to see Paul. She showed her to a room and went to let him know she was there.

Jane overheard the maid telling him someone was here to see him in the sitting room. He had come down the stairs to see who it was at the door. When she described the young woman, he immediately knew it was Jane. He knew her and knew she would try to see him.

“I thought I told you not to let anyone in.” He yelled at her. She tried to explain. He dismissed her to go about with her chores. Jane sat quietly as he hobbled into the room, with the cane.

“Why are you here Jane?” He started in on her. She looked at him without an expression.

“I thought we had some unfinished business.” She replied. Paul gingerly sat down in his chair custom-made for him.

“I thought I told you not to try and rekindle the past.” He snapped. Jane took a deep breath.

“You saw your son. Why didn’t you tell me you saw him?” She came back at him. Paul paused for a moment, contemplating what she just said.

“Yeah I saw the kid.” Is the only thing he would say. He wasn’t going to make this easy for her.

“That’s it. ‘The kid.’ “ She repeated. Paul stared at her. Jane began to feel something within herself.

“Yeah! The kid. What else do you want me to say. I told you last night. THings change. People change.” He threw back to her. Jane’s blood was simmering.

“Why you arrogant, selfish bastard. You have always made the decisions for everyone concerned. First it was not being honest with Joanie. Oh and please don’t let me open that can of worms.” Jane’s voice was slowly rising.

“What the hell are ya talking about. I’ve always put her feelings above mine. She knows it. Why are ya so worked up about Joanie and my relationship?” Paul yelled.

“Really Paul? But who did it serve?” She stated.

“Joanie! I didn’t want to hurt her. I knew she cared.” He began to stutter.

“By keeping her near? How noble of you.“ She retorted.

“What was I to do? She wanted me and you didn’t.” Paul said before he realized. Jane stared at him long and hard.

“So it made it right to play with her feelings? You slept with me while she waited in another room for you. You didn’t even tell her we had.” Jane shook her head. Paul knew he was losing control. He had to do something to regain it.

“I want you to leave and never come back.” His voice was calm, but his eyes were cold and emotionless. Jane had never seen him in this manner before.

“No!” Jane returned to him. Her voice just as calm, with a hint of defiance. Paul snorted once again. He began to shake. Jane stood her ground. He wasn’t going to punk her. She thought.
  
Part Thirty-Five

“I asked you to leave. Don’t make a scene, Jane” He was still calm as he was before. But Jane could see the anger in the eyes.

“Why did you leave the day after our Graduation? Why did you walk away from me?” She asked, her voice changing. Paul caught it. He took in a deep breath.

“I saw you kissing Kevin. I felt he was the one you wanted.” Paul looked away from her. He knew where this was going.

“But was he the one I needed?” She looked down to the floor, trying to hide the pain this discussion was causing. But she needed to know, if his love for her was true.

“Jane! Why rehash the past? What’s done is done.” He said, hoping she would not continue with this. But he knew from her eyes, she wasn’t going to stop.

“Maybe that’s easy for you Paul. But it’s not that easy for me to walk away from someone I love!” Her voice was slightly emotional. Paul looked to her, seeing how he had hurt her.

“You left me no choice, Paul! I came to you the next day. I felt I owed you that much. You didn’t. All I got from you was an letter saying, Goodbye.” Jane was trying to contain the pain of the truth, finally surfacing.

“I thought it best.” Paul replied. Jane’s blue eyes seem to turn red.

“To leave me with that self-serving bastard. Kevin never cared about what I wanted. It was all about him. Thank God the boy isn’t his.” She came to her feet and began to pace the floor. Paul sat back in his chair. He knew she was getting started.

“I-I-I.....” He tried to explain something, but couldn’t find the words. Jane looked over to him, thinking.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were hurt Paul?” She asked. Paul squirmed in his chair. He could see Jane was getting pissed. He had to choose his words carefully.

“I didn’t want to be a burden on you and the kid.” Paul said. Jane felt her temperature rising.

“By pushing me away last night. It was all staged for my benefit. Wasn’t it?” Her voice had raised a notch. Paul knew this voice so well. He hadn’t forgotten over the years.

“Dammit Paul! Have you been so absorbed in yourself you forgot the main ingredients. We’re friends!” Jane started in on him.

“But........” He started.

“Shut up!! I don’t want to hear a word from you. You are going to listen.” She yelled

“JANE.....” He called to her. She wasn’t listening.

“Did you not hear me say SHUT-UP!! What part of those words don’t you understand? The Shut or the up?” She stood with her hands on he hips, eyes flared. Paul exhaled.

“All I wanted............” He started.

“SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!! You had your chance and screwed everything up. Now it’s my time.” She was glaring at him. Yes, he remembered this face so well.

“Now you listen to me! We’re friends above all Paul! You should have called me as I would have you.“ She looked at him. He stared at, his mind fell on something.

“But you ran away with our son. I came after you. That’s when I was involved in the accident. You rejected me twice Jane. No make that three times.” Paul threw part of the blame back into her lap. Jane paused for a moment. The accident. Why didn’t she make the connection? She remembered the ambulance going by her. And the dread she felt.

“Oh my Paul.” Her eyes softly fell on him. Paul looked at her wondering what she was thinking.

“You were coming to me. I remember the ambulance going by. And this awful dread washing over me. It was you. It was you.” She sat down, the tears bursting through.

She had let him down as much as he had her. Paul struggled to his feet. He never could stand to see her cry. He limped over to her.

“Jane! Please darlin. Don’t cry.” Paul touched her hair. Jane heard his soothing voice. It was as comforting as it always had been.

“Paul! I’m so sorry. How did we get here? We were so close as children. Why did it have to change so?” She said between sobs. Paul enjoyed the touching her hair. He had never stopped loving her.

“I don’t know Jane. It seems we get so caught up in so many things, we forget those things which are most important.” Paul reached to take her hand in his own. Jane looked up to him and excepted it. They gazed into each other’s eyes, searching for the love lost.

Part Thirty-Six

Jane and Paul’s locked into each other. For the first time in their lives, nothing stood between them. They were one with one another. The feeling swelled up within them. Surfacing and taking them over.

Paul couldn’t resist or deny, no matter what his physical state. His love for Jane was stronger than ever. His heart longed to be appeased. He touched her soft cheek with his knuckles. A smile began to form on his face. His Jane was here in front of him.

Jane closed her eyes from his touched, tears seeped through her eyelids. After so many years, without knowledge of what was truly hidden in heart. She felt complete, here and now with Paul.

“Jane?” His voice soft, barely audible. Jane opened her eyes to gaze into his own.

“Yes Paul.” Her voice equally low. They were feeling the affects of the emotions taking them over.

“Come with me. I want to show you something.” He said taking her hand into his and leading her through the double glass sliding doors. He took her out into his garden, to a very special place.

Jane gasped, as they made it around the hedges into a clearing. It was a small replica of their favorite spot they would go. They looked over the beautiful lakeside scenery. Then Jane noticed the old oak tree they always sat under.

“You remembered the lake and oak tree. It brings back so many memories. “ Jane turned to Paul, smiling.

“Yeah. It was always a special place for me. It was our place.“ He continued to look over the lake. Jane’s eyes slightly narrowed. She caught a hint of regret in his voice.

“It was for me too, Paul. It was the place we went to get away from the world. Just you and I.“ She added. Paul’s eyes stayed on the lake.

“Do you remember the pack we made, Jane?“ Paul asked, his voice had lost the softness. It had turned solemn.

“Pack?“ Jane asked. She wasn’t sure of what he was saying. Paul looked out the corner of his eyes. Then a sarcastic grin came over his face. He chuckled. It was the way he did that seem to put a damper on things.

“Why would I think you would remember anything about things we may have done or said to each other. It has and always be, Kevin.” His voice threw those harsh word to her.

Jane felt this moment slipping away from her. She had no intentions of it ending this way. Not now that she knows how much she was in love with him. And the sad fact, that he has been the only man she has truly loved. Kevin was controlling. He had convinced her that they belonged together, because they were in love. Blindingly, she allow herself to be taken in by his obsession.

“No Paul! Kevin is done and over. It’s all about us. It has always been about You and I! I was too blind to se it.” Jane gentle griped his arm. Paul stared.

“Sure! I listen to that before. I’m getting tired now. It’s been nice and all, but I’m not going to give into this emotion that almost dimmed my senses.” Paul said curtly, sending a pain through Jane’s heart. How can he say what he just said?

She looked bewildered. Paul turned abruptly to leave. He must have moved a little to awkwardly. The next thing that happened, his cane slipped from his hand. Losing his balance began to tumble to the ground.

Jane seeing this moved swiftly. She could only help his fall lighten. She held his upper body in her small arms and with the support of the tree,  slid to the ground. They made it safely to the ground. Paul’s head and shoulder’s rested in Jane’s lap.

“I have Paul! I have you!” She said holding him close to her. He grabbed her arms in his hand, as he began to cry.

“I’m sorry Jane. I never meant to hurt you. Never!” He told her. Jane rubbed his hair.

“I know Paul! I know! Life just has a way of taking us through things. Maybe it’s because it helps us to appreciate it when the good things come our way. ‘No matter wherever life leads us! Let’s make this pack today! We will never lose touch of each other! And will always be there for one another whenever needed!” She finished. Paul slowly turned his head up to her. She looked down at him with a mischievous grin.

“Why you lil’ she-devil! You knew exactly what I was talking about.” Paul realizing she had toyed with him as she had done in the pass.

“Yeah I though I would lighten up the mood some. But in all seriousness. I don’t want us to part ever again. You are the Love of my life. Always!” Jane planted a kiss on his lip. Paul took her head in his arms, holding her, as he deepened the kiss.

Jane and Paul married! Lived in the house he owns, spending their vacation time in the home she owns. Paul soon became able to ambulate without the cane. He did go back to the wrestling organization on a non-wrestling position.

And over the years, they lived happily ever after.

The End