A Picture's Worth A Thousand Words

The sun was high in the California sky and the girls were standing in their caps and gowns. Today was their high school graduation and Mackenzie Thomas and Natalie Grimmer anxiously awaited the end of the ceremony. Mackenzie was the more reserve one of the two. She didn't mind to share events in her life but was very careful with her feelings. She didn't let much out to those who didn't know her that well. Natalie was almost the opposite. She was careful with what she shared regarding the events in her life but was very open with her feelings.
"And now as we head into the future we go as leaders." The valedictorian spoke.
"He only got there because he was the captain of the football team." Nat whispered in Kenz's ear.
"I know." Kenz giggled.
Finally, he finished his speech and the principal announced the graduating class of 1984. The students yelled and cheered as silly streamers went flying through the air.

Two weeks after graduation Kenz waited on the mail. She was anxious to see if any more colleges had accepted her for the fall semester. She had also sent a portfolio to Polygram/MCA Records for an apprenticeship in their photography department. The mail came and she quickly ran to the box. She sifted through several bills when she came across the letter. She quickly opened it and found that she had been accepted.
She jumped into her car and went straight to Natalie's. When she walked in Nat was jumping up and down holding an identical letter to her own.
"We did it!" Kenz hugged her. Photography was the one thing the girls took interest in the most. That and rock music.
"This is gonna be a blast!" Nat stared at the letter. "We really got accepted."
"I told you you were good." Kenz smiled.
"You're better." Nat grabbed a soda.
"We both have our strong points." Kenz grabbed one also.
"Kenz, go get your Mom! We have to celebrate!"
"She's working late. Besides, she has a date with that George guy."
"The one who sells insurance?"
"No, the unemployed one." She sighed.

The girls quickly learned the ropes at Polygram. After the first couple of shoots they adjusted to working with different celebrities they had only ever dreamed of meeting. They were taking a lunch break between sessions and decided to go for a run.
"I'm glad we decided to take this apprenticeship." Nat huffed as they ran.
"Me, too. Photography is all I've ever wanted to do." Kenz paced herself.
“What's your mom been up to?"
"Dating the same old losers she always does. Has a new one moving in this week."
"Still won't tell you anything about your father?"
"Won't budge." Kenz slowed to a walk. "I don't understand it. What could have been so bad about him that she won't even tell me who he is?"
"Don't know." Nat shrugged her shoulders. She never had understood why Kenzie's mother told her that she didn't know Kenzie's father. She been around herself when things slipped about him. It was obvious that Cindy knew.
"I feel like I'm the only person who's ever gone through this some times." Kenz stopped to unlock the door to the house they lived in.
"I know."

The girls walked in late one night from a long day of shoots.
"I'm exhausted." Nat plopped on the couch.
"Aren't you going to the party?" Kenz stopped at the foot of the stairs.
"I think I'll skip this one." She peeked an eye open. "That gorgeous God of a soccer player is coming over."
"Stan?" Kenz giggled.
"That would be the one."
"Well hot damn!" Kenz flew up the stairs. "I'd better hurry and leave." She giggled.

She took a long, hot shower and primped before walking back down an hour later. She was dressed in blue jeans and a black see through shirt with a matching black lace bra.
"Whose the lucky man?" Nat raised her eyebrows.
"Ron Parsons."
"From Polygram?"
"That's the one." She smiled as the doorbell rang. She opened the door to see Ron standing there.
"Hey."
"Let me grab my jacket." Kenz let him in. "I'll see ya later, Nat." She grabbed her things and walked out.

Ron and Kenzie walked into the party and looked around.
"Can I get you a drink?" Ron yelled over the music.
"Vodka on the rocks." She smiled as she spotted several fine looking men. She spotted anyone from The Police, Journey, Queen, Bon Jovi, to Madonna and Elton John.
"Here ya go." Ron handed her a glass.
"Thanks." She took a drink. They mingled around for a while as Ron introduced her.
"Jon!" Ron slapped a hand on his shoulder as they walked up.
"Ron! How are ya?"
"Great. I want you guys to meet Kenzie Thomas."
"Hey." Kenz extended her hand to him. "It's a pleasure."
"Pleasure's all mine." Jon kissed her hand. "Jonathon Cain."
"Steve Perry." The man standing next to him introduced himself.
"Kenzie is one of our best photographers." Ron boasted.
"Really?" Jon raised his eyebrows. "How's come we haven't seen her yet?"
"Don't worry." Ron laughed.

Ron watched as most of the night Kenz worked the party as if she'd grown up around rock stars. Most of them seem to fall at her feet as she talked. She was currently talking with Sting.
"I think we're scheduled for a shoot with you next week." Sting smiled at her.
"I believe we are." Kenz's was mesmorized by those hipnotic blue eyes.
"I can't wait. Maybe you and I could get together afterwards and go someplace a litt'l more quiet than this." He chuckled.
"You have yourself a date." She reached inside her pocket and pulled out one of her cards. "That has all the numbers you need to know to get a hold of me."
"I'll be callin'." He kissed her cheek. "Night, Kenzie."
"Ready to call it a night?" Ron placed his hand on the small of her back and whispered in her ear.
"But I'm having so much fun." She finished off her latest glass of vodka.
"That didn't mean the fun had to end." His lips were inches from hers.
"What did you have in mind?" She laced an arm around his neck.

"Who is that?" Roger Taylor pointed to Kenzie as he spoke with Brian May.
"With Ron? No ideer, mate."
"She looks....familiar." Roger watched her.
"Familiar?" Brian shook his head. "We see so many faces how do you remember?"
"You're right." Roger finished his beer. "Probably just another face."

Kenz walked in the house the next morning to see Nat in the kitchen sipping on a cup of coffee.
"Must have been some party." Nat looked up.
"You would have been in heaven." Kenz assured her as she poured her own cup.
"So?"
"Not bad."
"Not bad?" Nat giggled. "You haven't had a man rated that in a while."
"I know." She sighed. "Ready for our run?"
"Sure."

They spent the first year in LA and the following summer were offered the opportunity to cover a Rock Fest at Reading Park in England.
“England?” Kenz smiled.
“I’ve never been outta the country before.” Nat looked at Tim Gerstle, their boss.
“The company has a house for you girls. All expenses paid. This is a wonderful chance.” He handed them both a contract. “The company wants to offer you a full time position. You girls have done well and become very popular with the rock community.” He watched as the girls looked at each other. "I'll give you a few minutes." He walked to the door. "Don't take to long. You have a photoshoot with Bon Jovi in ten minutes."
Kenz fell into the chair and stared at the contract. "Whatcha think?"
"I think...." Nat sat next to her. "This is an opportunity of a lifetime."
"I've always wanted to travel. An British men are so sexy."
"Yes, they are." Nat giggled.
"So we're going?" Kenz looked up.
"I think we should."
"Then lets do it!" Kenz signed the contract. Nat followed as soon as she was done.

The girls spent the next two weeks setting up their offices in London and unpacking at their new house.
"This place is great." Nat ran out of her room.
"It's huge." Kenz opened a bottle of water.
"What time are we suppose to be at the park?"
"We need to be there and set up at 8:00 in the morning." She stood up. "I'm gonna go for a run. Wanna come?"
"Oh, yeah." Nat walked back into her room to change.

They ran through the neighborhood and across to the adjoining one. They were talking lightly about the scenery when something caught Kenz's eye. He was the most gorgeous man she had ever seen. Her heart seemed to skip a beat as she watched him. He was playing soccer with a group of other good-looking men.
"Do you know who that is?" Nat watched the also.
"Def something or other."
"Leppard. They are pretty new. Just had their first number one." Nat smiled.
"If he can sing as good as he looks they will be huge in no time." Kenz looked over the rim of her sunglasses.

"Look at that." Joe Elliott pointed from the soccer field.
"Hot." Phil Collen agreed.
"I haven't seen them around here before." Steve Clark smiled.
"Look pretty young to me." Rick Savage huffed as he eyed Kenz. She was young but she seemed to captivate him.

The next morning the girls were set up and for the still shots and Kenz was loading her camera when the first group showed up.
"'ello, ladies." A British voice spoke above her head.
"Natalie Grimmer." She extended her hand.
"Roger Taylor." He shook her hand. "These are Brian May, Freddie Mercury, and John Deacon."
"Nice to meet you." Nat smiled. Kenz joined them and smiled.
"Mackenzie Thomas." She extended her hand to Roger. He stopped briefly and looked at her. She had caught him a little off guard. Here was that familiar face again. And her name. Her name struck a nerve as well.
"Roger Taylor." He finally kissed her hand. "Pleasure to me you."
"Ready to start?" Nat grabbed her camera.
"Sure thing." Brian smiled.

As the girls worked the shoot Roger kept his eye on Mackenzie. He had a daughter named Mackenzie. One he hadn't seen in fifteen years. He and her mother had split up when she was only four and her mother has kept her hidden from him ever since. Then, there was her name. Mackenzie Thomas. Thomas had been the last name of his daughter’s mother. Could this be her? Could it be possible that after all these years that they had run into each other by pure chance? The chances were nearly impossible for that to happen but, oh if it were true.

“That’s a wrap!” Kenz looked up from the last picture.
“Sounds great.” Freddie relaxed.
“Are you ladies covering the concert as well?” Brian smiled.
“Yeah. We are doing the first round cover shots here then the concert.” Kenz placed her sunglasses over her eyes.
“You’re new to England, aren’t you?” Roger looked at the girls.
“First time. We’re from Los Angeles.” Nat placed the film in her bag.
“You’ll love it here.” Freddie joined in.
“Care to join us for lunch later?” Roger smiled at Kenz. “Our treat.”
Kenz looked at Nat. She nodded her head. “We’d love to.”
“We’ll stop and get you then.”

“Nat….Kenzie!” Steve Perry ran up.
“Hey!” Kenz hugged him. “How are you guys?”
“Great, love. You?”
“Good.” Nat hugged him.
“It’s good to see you girls here.”
“Well, I guess all our hard work paid off.” Kenz flirted. “They brought us on fulltime.”
“That’s great.”

“Look what we have here.” Steve Clark smiled as they walked up to the girls. They were scheduled for the next photoshoot.
“Guess we get to find out who they are after all.” Rick Allen smiled.
“That we do.” Joe watched them.

“You are coming to the after party aren’t you?” Steve smiled.
“We’ll be there.” Kenz looked at her watch. “Our next shoot is late.”
“I’ve got them just on time.” Nat looked at her own. “Besides, there they are.” She pointed to Def Leppard standing a few feet away.
“I’ll let you get to work. Find me later.” He kissed Kenz’s cheek.
“See ya, Steve.”
“Ready?” Nat looked up at Joe.
“Yes.” He smiled down at her.
“Natalie Grimmer. But, you can call me Nat.” She shook his hand.
“Joe Elliott.”
“I’m Phil Collen, and this is Rick Allen and…..”
“Steve Clark.” Held his hand out for Kenz.
“Mackenzie Thomas.” She smiled as Sav joined the group. He looked at her a second, noticing the tight little shorts and tank she wore.
“Rick Savage, but my mates all call me Sav.” He pointed to Rick. “Cuts down on the confusion.”
“Call me Kenzie.” She flirted. He was even better looking up close, she thought.

They ran through the shoot quickly, as the guys were easy to photograph, and talked lightly.
The rest of the day seemed to fly by as well. They had lunch with the guys from Queen and finished photographing several other groups present that day. As the girls were finishing loading their stuff into Kenz’s car they were met up by Roger and Brian.
“Ready for the party?” Roger smiled at Kenz.
“Ready.” She shut the truck lid.
“May I?” Brian held out his arm for Nat.
“My pleasure.” She smiled over at Kenz.

They walked into the party and headed straight for the bar.
“I don’t know about you lads, but I must get to know those two better.” Joe drank on his Dewars.
“I agree.” Steve watched Kenz.
Sav watched her too. She was definitely a knock out but young. He needed to remember that.
“Cat got your tongue?” Joe smacked him on the back.
“What?” Sav looked at him.
“You are usually one of the first to make a remark about a lady like that.” Joe watched him. If he knew his friend he would probably bet that he had taken a liking to her already.

“Vodka.” Roger ordered.
“Go ahead and give me five shots of the same.” Kenz sat at the bar.
“Afraid they will run out?” Roger laughed.
“Order them all at once so you don’t have to wait.” She smiled.
“Amiretto Sour.” Nat ordered.
“Double scotch.” Brian followed.
“How long are you in London?” Roger looked at Kenz.
“We are here for about a month then head back to the States to do some tour coverage.” She downed the first shot.
Roger looked at Brian. He had discussed with him earlier what he was thinking and Brian told him that it would be a long shot that this was the same Mackenzie. “Ever been around the San Diego area?”
“My grandparents live there.” Kenz finished off two more shots. As the third one was gone she ordered a beer.
“Lovely place.” He started as Kenz’s cell phone rang.
“Mackenzie Thomas.” She turned her head. “Mom, hey.” She looked at everyone and then walked across the room to a quiet corner.
“Where are you?” Cindy, her mother, laughed.
“An after party. How are you?” She saw the DL guys at a table and waved.
“Just calling to check up.”
“I’m fine. I can hardly hear you so how about I just call you in the morning?”
“Sounds good. Be careful.” Cindy sighed.
“I will.” She hung up. As she walked back to the bar she talked with a few people.

“Kenzie!” Joe yelled from their table. She walked over and joined them.
“Hey, guys.” She smiled at Sav.
“Care to join us, love?” Steve flirted.
“I really should……”
“One drink?” Joe handed her a shot.
“Why not.” She sat down. Before she knew it they had worked on four rounds and talked about her career and the move to London. She noticed that just about every one of them had hit on her at some point or another and she found Steve to be quite charming.
“LA is a great place to party if you know the right spots.” She downed another shot.
“Maybe you can show us around when we’re there next.” Steve patted her hand.
“I’d love to.”
“Why don’t you go ask your friend to join us?” Joe smiled. “Ask Roger and Brian to join us as well.”
“Be right back.” She giggled.
“Damn!” Sav sat back.
“Hot little thing isn’t she?” Phil watched her walked to the bar.
“To bad she isn’t a littl’ older.” Sav sighed.
“I don’t think she’s all that young compared to us.” Steve smirked. “I wouldn’t mind getting to know her.”

“It’s about time.” Nat smiled as she joined them.
“We’ve been asked to join the Def men over there.” Kenz smiled over her shoulder.
“Ooh!” Nat smiled. “Care to join us?” She looked at Brian and Roger.
“Nah, we don’t want to crash.” Roger stopped smiling. He wanted to get to know Kenz.
“You won’t be.” Kenz grabbed his hand and they walked to the table. "I had strict instructions to bring you." She giggled. "Besides the night it young!"
“Hey, Brian.” Joe looked up at his idol.
“Joe,….guys. How are you?”
“Great.” Rick moved his chair to make room. Kenz ended up between Sav and Joe with Natalie on the other side of him next to Brian.
They drank and talked. They quickly found out that the girls were quickly becoming a well-known name in the music business. Kenz was one of the most recommended photographers among the musicians.
They talked about the guy’s career and favorite past times. They appeared to be hitting it off well.

Around 3:00 a.m. it was time to go home.
“It’s been lovely.” Steve kissed Kenz’s cheek.
“Yes it has.” She smiled.
“Maybe we can get together again sometime and go out.” Nat looked at Joe.
“We’d like that.” He returned her smile.
“Are you even old enough to get into the bars?” Roger laughed.
“Yes!” Kenz playfully smacked him.
“We’re 19.” Nat giggled.
“Give us a call sometime.” Kenz handed Steve her business card. “That has my cell number on it. It’s usually the best way to get a hold of me.”
“We’ll call you.” Sav smiled.
“I’m gonna hold you to it.” She spoke as she grabbed Roger’s hand. “Night, boys!”
“Night!” They all yelled.
“Bye.” Nat winked at Joe.

Roger and Brian dropped the girls off at their car and then followed them back to their house to make sure they made it alright.
“It was very nice meeting you.” Kenz smiled as she and Roger drove to her house.
“Yes, it was.” He watched her. Trying to find any similarities to him in her. “You girls sure know how to party.”
“Well…..” She giggled. “You need to kick back and loosen up once in a while.”
Roger laughed. “I guess you do.” He pulled in the driveway. “Can you make it in alright?”
“Yeah. Thanks for the ride” She kissed his cheek. “Night.” She shut the door.
Brian parked Kenz’s car and then climbed in with Roger. They watched as the girls walked into the house and the light come on before pulling out.
“You still have your hopes set on it being her.” Brian looked at him.
“It’s quite the coincidence.” Roger sighed. “You know how long I’ve searched for Mackenzie. What if it is her?”
“Don’t you think she would have said something?” Brian reasoned.
“Maybe. Maybe not. It's hard to say what her mother's told her all these years. Maybe she’s not ready to jump right in. It has been fifteen years.”
“For you, I hope it is her then.” Brian sighed.

* * * * *

The girls enjoyed London and met with the guys from DL several times and seemed to be hitting it off well with them. Kenz had seemed to be particularly drawn to Steve. It was like they had a connection. They were actually beginning to be good friends when it was coming time for the girls to head back to the States.
“Joe called.” Nat spoke as Kenz returned from a run.
“What did he have to say?” Kenz grabbed a bottle of water.
“Wanna go to the pub’s tonight?” Nat smiled.
“Cool. What time?” She sat on the sofa.
“They said we could meet them at the Blue Post around 7:00.”
“I better get my shower then.” She looked at the clock. It was 5:45.

She walked out of her room and hour later. She decided on a pair of blue jeans and a hot pink halter-top. Nat wore a pair of jeans and a bright yellow tank top.

“Did Nat say if they were coming?” Steve looked at Joe.
“She’s coming but, Kenz was out for a run.” He downed his second shot. “I’m sure she’ll talk her into it.” He looked at Sav as he watched the door.
The girls walked in a few minutes later.
“Hey!” Nat hugged Joe and Phil.
“Kenzie.” Steve hugged her then Sav.
“Wake up, Rick.” Kenz smacked him on the back.
“I am.” He laughed as he hugged her.
Before she could even say a word, the bartender threw five shots of vodka in front of her. "Good to see ya, Kenz!"
“Thanks, Pete.” She grabbed the first one.
“Why do you always get five at a time?” Steve laughed.
“Here.” She sat hers in front of him. “Pete, two more rounds.”
“Comin’ up, love.” He quickly prepared her shots and then placed them in front of her.
“Thanks!” She winked at him. “If you order them all at once then you don’t have to wait.” She lined up the glasses for him. “See?”
“That’s a hell of an ideer.” Phil laughed.
“I try.” She smiled at Sav, who was watching her.
They drank for a few hours before Nat got up to leave. “I’ve gotta go.”
“Why?” Kenz looked up from the pictures Steve was showing her.
“I have a date.” Nat smiled. “I’ll see ya later.”
“I’ll leave the light on for ya.” Kenz giggled.
“Don’t bother.” Nat walked away.
“So? What next?” Joe looked around the table.
“The pub’s closing.” Sav finished his beer.
“We can go back to our house.” Kenz smiled. “Nat and I have a tendency to keep a nice stock of alcohol.”
“Sounds like an ideer.” Sav flirted.
“Let’s go then.” Steve grabbed her hand as he glared at Sav.

They ended up in Kenz’s living room drinking and talking.
“We have a pool table in the other room.” Kenz sipped on a bottle.
“Feel like playin’?” Joe looked at Phil.
“Let’s go.” Phil stood as Rick followed.
“Comin’?” Steve looked at Kenz.
“In a second. I wanna talk to Sav.”
“Don’t be long.” He smiled.
“What’s on your mind?” Sav smiled at her. He had the most incredible, breath-taking smile.
“I know that you’re not dating anyone right now.” She ran a finger down his cheek. “I thought maybe we could go out some time?” She looked him in the eye.
He watched her for a minute. A date. With her? Oooh! That would be heaven. He was about to except when he remembered her age. She was six years younger than he was and he needed to remember that.
“I’m not sure that would be such a good ideer.” He slurred.
“Why?” Kenz leaned back. She thought for sure that she’d picked up on his signals correctly. Maybe she hadn’t.
“I…want to…but…” He ran a hand through her hair. “The age….”
“Fine. I won’t ask again.” She stood and walked into the family room with the others. When Sav joined them she was arm and arm with Steve drinking and singing to the radio. Damn! Why did she have to be so adorable? She was sexy, sweet, funny, and fitting into the group like she’s been here from the beginning.
“Your shot, Kenzie.” Joe held the pool stick out for her.
“Thanks.” She flirted. She leaned over and took aim on the ball. She made the shot and looked back at Joe. “You owe me a round next time we go out.”
“Care to take it out in trade any other way?” He grabbed her around the waist.
“What did you have in mind?” She giggled. He quickly brought her lips to his and kissed her. When he released her, she smiled.
“Tempting.” She ran a finger over his lower lip. “But, I think I’ll take the alcohol.” She teased.
“Piss off!” He laughed.
They finished off the night drinking and playing pool. The next morning the guys woke up to the smell of breakfast.
“Smells good.” Sav smiled. She looked up and smiled at him.
His eyes fell to her outfit. She must have already been for her morning run. She was wearing a pair of jogging shorts and her sports bra.
“Morning.” She caught him looking at her.
“You cook?” He sat at the bar.
“Here.” She handed him a plate full of food. “Want some juice?”
“Please.” He took a bite of eggs. Add cooking to her list of qualities.
“There you go.” She sat down next to him and drank her coffee as she looked at the morning paper.
“About last night.” He spoke after a few minutes.
“What about it?” She looked up.
“Never mind.” She wasn’t upset so he wasn’t going to make her. “When do you and Nat leave?”
“Tomorrow.” She took a sip of her coffee. “We have a couple of U.S. tours to cover.”
“Are you comin’ back here after that?” Joe walked in.
“I think so. I have a few concerts in July to cover.” She walked to the stove. “Breakfast?”
“You cook?” Joe was surprised.
“Why is that so hard to believe?” She huffed. Sav looked at Joe and smiled.
“You already asked.”
“Yep.” Sav laughed.
“I’d love breakfast.” He sat down next to Sav at the bar.

“Damn! Look at all these people.” Nat tried to push her way backstage.
“This is really a pain in the ass.” Kenz huffed as they reached security. They quickly showed their badges and walked backstage.
“What the bloody hell are you doing?” Roger laughed as Brian teased his hair.
“It’s the latest fad.” Brian smiled in the mirror.
“And it works so well with you.” Kenz laughed.
“Kenzie!” Roger ran over and hugged her. He had been kicking himself in the ass for not getting her number while they were in London. “How are you, love?”
“Good. How are you?” She kissed his cheek.
“Great.” He smiled as the girls went to work setting up. “Did you fancy London?”
“Yes.” She attached the zoom to her camera. “I like it there. So much different than LA.”

“Brian! You’re next.” Nat looked up from her camera. She reloaded the film as Brian took his place.
“Mackenzie Thomas.” She answered her phone.
“Hey, Kenzie.” Joe belted.
“Joe, what’s up?”
“Sav and I are in Boston for the Queen concert.”
“Really?” She giggled.
“Yeah. When we were finished we thought we might fly on out to LA and visit you.” He looked at Sav.
“That won’t be necessary. We’re in Boston for the concert as well.”
“Cool.” He laughed.
“How ‘bout you met us by the outside gates after the show.”
“See ya then, love.” He hung up.
“We hitting the clubs after the show?” Freddie walked in. “Kenzie!” He hugged her.
“How are ya, Freddie?” She hugged him.
“Fabulous.” He smiled.
"What did Joe have to say?" Nat looked up from her camera.
"We're going out with them after the show. It's just him and Sav." Kenz looked at Roger.
"Are we ready?" Roger looked at the others.
"Did you have plans for us?" Kenz watched him. "I can cancel."
"Don't do that. We can go out tomorrow." Roger smiled at her.
"Lunch?"
"I'd love to have lunch." She pulled out a business card. "Call me when you're ready to go out."

They watched the concert and got several shots of the group. Kenz seemed to get a strange feeling when she watched these guys. A feeling of old memories tugging at the back of her mind. Is seemed so natural to be around this group of guys. And Roger, he was old enough to be her father yet she felt a sort of connection with him. Strange how that was happening lately with people she was meeting.
When they finished they met Joe and Sav outside.
"Hey!" Nat hugged Joe. "Nice to see you."
"Hey, Kenzie." Sav hugged her. God, she smelled good. Maybe he should just give in and ask her out. Tell her he thought about it and changed his mind.
"How are you, Sav?" Nat moved in to hug him.
"Kenzie." Joe picked her up off the ground as he hugged her.
"Hey, Joe." She smiled.
"So, what are the plans?" Nat grabbed Joe's hand.
"I think we need to hit a few clubs." Joe smiled.
"Sounds good." Kenz grabbed onto Sav.

Thirty minutes later they were sitting in the club finishing off their second round.
"So when do you guys start touring?" Nat flirted with Joe.
"Not sure. We are still talking about it."
Kenz lined up her new round of shots. "Wanna dance?"
"I don't dance." Sav laughed.
"Oh, nonsense." Kenz laughed. "C'mon!" She pulled him onto the dance floor. She rubbed up against him to the rhythm of the music as he barely moved. He was to busy trying to keep his body from reacting to her. She smiled when she noticed that he was watching her. That sweet smile covering his face.
"All you have to do is move your hips." She placed her hands on his hips and moved them with hers. His skin burned from her touch.
"Can we sit down?" He laughed.
"We're just getting started." She laced her arms around his neck. "Loosen up." She whispered in his ear.

"I think she's got her eyes on Sav." Joe whispered in Nat's ear.
"I think she has since she first saw him." She giggled. "And let me tell you, when she sets her mind on something....let's just say she's determined."
"Back so soon?" Joe chuckled as they sat down.
"Sav doesn't dance." She laughed.
"Oh, well. That means we can do body shots." Nat flirted with Joe.
"Another round?" The waitress asked.
"I need five shots of Tequila and a bowl of limes." Kenz placed her order. "That's just for me." She looked at Sav.
"Make it the same for all of us." Sav looked at her.
"Be right back." The waitress walked off.

A few minutes later she brought what they needed for the body shots. They did the first few rounds in minutes. Sav watched as Kenz licked the salt off her wrist, drink her shot, and then suck on the lime. She definitely had a way of turning him on.
"You missed some." Kenz licked Sav's hand. He closed his eyes and tried to control himself. He could feel his jeans getting tighter as the night progressed. "Another?" She smiled at him.
"Sure." He spoke without opening his eyes. She leaned over and licked the side of his neck and threw the salt on it. His breathing was heavy as she licked the salt from his neck then down her shot. When she took the lime from his mouth she made sure to run her tongue along his bottom lip.
"Wow!" Joe watched Sav quickly take a drink.
"I need more salt." Kenz reached across the table giving Sav a clear shot to her cleavage. As she reached she lost her balance and landed in his lap. "Oops!" She wiggled in his lap then slid back to her own. His eyes remained closed as the heat grew inside his jeans.
"I think we're going to dance." Nat started to stand.
"Why?" Kenz smiled.
"I think you two need to be left alone."
"Really?" She straddled his lap and reached for his hands, looked straight into his eyes. "I understand completely now."
"What?"
"Rick... you're just too old for me to fuck. Sorry." She headed out the door.
He sat and stared at the floor. What just happened? He went from wishing they were back at his hotel to wishing she would come back.

"Where's Kenz?" Joe returned to the table.
"She left." He was dazed as he looked up.
"What did you do?" He sat across from him. "She was all over you a second ago."
He thought for a moment. "She asked me out a while back and I turned her down." He sighed.
"You did what?" He huffed. "Please help me to understand the reasoning behind that one."
"I told her that I thought she was too young." He rubbed his face.
"I do believe that that's the single most stupid thing I've ever heard come out of your mouth!" He reached over and smacked him on the back of the head.
"Ouch!"
"What the fuck were you thinking?" He laughed as Nat joined them.
"Where's Kenz?" She smiled.
"She left!" Sav stood. "Excuse me!" He walked to the bathroom.
"What was that about?" Nat looked at Joe.
"Long story." He took her hand.

Kenz took a few steps outside of the club and stopped. Was this what she really wanted to do? She wanted to teach him a lesson, but she was also extremely aroused. What was it about that man that made her insides melt? And that smile... before she knew it, she had turned around and was walking back through the club. She saw Joe and Kenz sitting at the table and looked around.
"Look whose back!" Joe laughed.
"Where did he go?" She crossed her arms.
"Loo."
"Fine." She looked around and noticed a familiar face at the bar. "Well, it's his loss. Night!" She walked to the bar. "Jon!"
"Kenzie!" He hugged her. "You look great!"
"You're not lookin' too bad yourself." She growled.
"We're just heading off to another party. Would you like to join us?"
"I'd love to." She looked over her shoulder to see Joe and Nat watching her.
"I hate those bloody air hand dryers!" Sav complained as he returned to the table.
"Kenz is back!" Joe pointed. "Better hurry before she leaves with that other bloke."
"She..." His face was overcome with heat as he angered.
"She came back in for you, Sav! Go!" Nat yelled at him.
"What if..." He watched as he took her hand and followed the group out the door.
"You are such a wanker!" Joe again hit him on the back of the head.

"You sure Kenz won't mind?" Joe followed Nat into her hotel room.
"She won't be home tonight. She's with Jonathan Cain."
"From Journey?"
"The same." She pulled him into the room. "But enough about Kenzie."
"I agree." He kissed her.

Joe woke up the next morning to the thumping on the door. Nat rooted around the room and finally found Joe's T-shirt. She then opened the door.
"Mornin' Nat. I came to get Joe. We have a flight to LA to catch." Sav smiled.
"Piss off!" Joe rolled over and pulled the covers over his head. "She's the reason I was goin' anyway."
She smiled as Kenz walked to the door.
"Party?" Kenz looked over her sunglasses.
"Apparently." Nat looked her over. "Have fun?"
"Always." She looked at Sav as Nat closed the door. "You enjoy a cold shower last night?" She smiled.
"That's not funny." He smiled.
"You have to admit. I got you good." She slid her hands into her pockets.
"Was that your master plan all along?"
"No." She hid her eyes under her sunglasses. She didn't want to give herself away.
"So there's still a chance..." He leaned over her.
"I need a shower." She quickly walked into her room.

Kenz walked into a small cafe and found Roger at a corner table.
"Hey!" She hugged him as she reached the table.
"Have a good time last night?" He smiled.
"A blast." She took a sip of the drink he had ordered for her. "I hope you didn't mind."
"No." He took a drink himself. He was nervous sitting here talking with her. He had no idea if this was her or not. If she was his daughter he'd definitely have to be proud. She was a very attractive young lady. She appeared to be independent, smart, and very athletic.
"The guys kinda surprised us." She continued.
"Well, I have you for lunch today." He smiled.
"Are you guys doing a big tour?"
"Not presently. Just a few states then back home."

They talked for a little bit and he learned that she loved photography since she was very young and that Nat was her best friend in the world. She was very conscious of her health and believed in hard work.
"What about your mother? Are the two of you close?" He finally worked up the courage to ask.
"Mom? Not really. She more concerned with who her latest fling is with than anything I've ever done." A sadness creeped into her voice.
Roger fumed as he thought about what her life with Cindy must have been like. That was if she was his daughter."And you've lived in LA all your life?"
"I think mom said something about living in San Diego with her parents for awhile when I was real young." She finished her drink.
"I hate to rush off but I have an early sound check." He lied. He had to leave before he came right out and asked her about her father. If she was bitter than he may never get the chance to get to know her. If she was his daughter and she wanted to keep things on a friendship basis for the time being, he would respect that. It was better than he'd had the last fifteen years. He also didn't want to pry into her life too much and push her away.
"Can I see you again?"
"I think I'd like that." She kissed his cheek. "You have my card. Give me a call anytime."
"I'll do that." He returned her kiss. "Take care, love."
"I will. You, too." She walked out the door.

Kenz met Nat back at the hotel in time to leave for their flight.
"How was lunch?" Nat zipped her suitcase.
"I like Roger. He's not interested in hitting on me every second." She giggled.
"Our flight was delayed an hour so we have plenty of time." She sat her bag by the door.
"I got tickets to the Journey concert in London in July." She smiled. "Wanna go with?"
"No thanks. I think I will like to spend some time with Joe when we go back there." Nat blushed.
"That good, huh?"
"The man should win an award for what he can do with his tongue." Nat sighed.
"I'm jealous." She giggled.

The next night the girls arrived at the coliseum in Miami. Kenz pulled out her phone and walked off to a quiet corner. She dialed and listened to it ring when a strange male voice answered.
"Hello."
"Yeah." Kenz frowned. She didn't recognize the voice. "I was calling for Cindy. Is she home?"
"And who the hell is this?" The man huffed.
"I happen to be her daughter, you twit! Now, is she home?"
"Hold on." He put the phone down. "Bitch." He mumbled as he walked away. Kenzie's face was bright red with anger as her mother got on.
"What the hell did you say to him?" Cindy demanded.
"What?"
"He was in a fine mood before he answered the phone, Mackenzie. What did you say?" Cindy sneered.
"All I fuckin' asked is if you were there. Jeez, mom. I was just calling to see how things were."
"Well, Henry didn't know anything about you. Not real big on kids."
Kenz looked at the ceiling as tears began to burn her eyes. Things never changed. "It's not like I'm five and need constant attention."
"Still..."
"Whatever!"
"I think it's best if you let me call you from now on. I don't really want to run this one off, Mackenzie."
"If that's what you want." She slammed her phone shut and joined Nat.

They quickly set up the equipment and Nat went to work on the cover shots as Kenz walked out to check out the stage.
"Hey there." A sexy British voice spoke above her head. She looked up to see the drummer of Bohnam standing on the stage.
"Mackenzie Thomas." She smiled and showed him her press badge.
"Jason Bohnam. Nice to meet you." He pulled her onto the stage. She was the sexiest woman he had ever seen.
"I was just checking out the stage for the concert." She smiled.
"Don’t let me stop you.” He flirted. He sat back into a chair and watched her work.
“Ready for the concert tonight?” She spoke while she worked.
“Ready as I’ll ever be.” He smiled. “Could I persuade you into joining me for a party at our hotel after the concert?”
“And why would I do that?” She flirted.
“Because I asked you.” He knelt down so that he hovered over her.
“I’ll meet you back stage after the show.”

The show was great. Kenz found herself watching Jason frequently throughout. His blond hair, and that British accent were enough to turn her on the second she saw him.
The next morning Kenz woke up in Jason’s hotel room. She laid there and watched him sleep as she thought about the night before. He was incredible in bed.
“Mornin’” He caught her watching him.
“Morning.” She smiled.
“You need to leave?” He wrapped her in his arms.
“Yeah. I should get back so that Nat and I can fly back to LA.”
“Can I see you again?” He kissed her.
“I think I’d like that.” She giggled as he moved on top of her.
“Then let me give you a proper goodbye.” He kissed her neck.

Kenz and Nat walked into their house they now shared in LA, complements of Polygram.
“Home!” Nat plopped on the couch.
“Not for long.” Kenz threw her a soda. “We cover the Eagles concert in Minneapolis in two weeks then I’m heading back to London. It seems to be more peaceful there."
“I can’t wait to get back there.” She thought of Joe.
“Want some more of that tongue?” She raised her eyebrows.
“Oh, yeah.” She sighed. “Speaking of…how was Jason Bohnam?”
“Incredible. A very nice body and knows how to use it.” She picked up her ringing phone. “Mackenzie Thomas.”
“Kenzie, it’s Roger.”
“Hey, Rog. How are you?”
“Pretty good. I was just thinkin’ about you and wanted to give ya a quick call.”
“I’m glad you did. Where are you guys?”
“I’m at my home in LA right now.”
“Cool. Nat and I just walked in at home ourselves.”
Damn, they had been living in the same town her whole life and he didn’t even know it.
“Would you like to come over for dinner? We can grill some steaks.” Kenz offered.
“That sounds like a lovely ideer.”
“Great.” Kenz smiled at Nat as she walked up the stairs. She gave Roger the address and told him to be there around 6:00 and they would start dinner.

After she got off the phone she ran upstairs and took a shower. She was working on her makeup when Nat walked in.
“When’s he coming?” She leaned against the door.
“He should be here anytime.” She looked at her.
There was a knock at the door. “C’mon in!” Nat yelled over the balcony.
“’ello?” Roger stuck his head in.
“We’ll be down in a minute.” Nat leaned over the balcony. “Make yourself at home. Beer is in the fridge.” She pointed to the kitchen doorway.
“Thanks.” He walked in and grabbed a beer then made his way back to the living room. Along one wall and table the girls had several pictures displayed. Catching his attention he walked over to look at them. There were several of Kenz and Nat together at different sporting events, high school fundraisers, and graduation. There were family photos and photos with what he assumed were friends. Then, he saw it. A picture of Mackenzie and her mother.
His heart fell and his stomach felt like it was in knots. Cindy Thomas. His mind drifted back fifteen years to that fateful day.

"Cindy?" He walked into his house in London. "Cindy?" He yelled again as he laid his keys on the table. Peeking into the kitchen he found it empty. Frowning, he continued through the house. Something was wrong. Mackenzie usually met him at the door to tell him all the details of her day. "Cindy, you 'ome?" He walked up to their bedroom. It too was empty. He walked down the hall to Mackenzie's room. That's when the horror started. Her room was empty. Her toys gone. Searching the drawers, he found her clothes gone as well. Running back down the hall he searched his bedroom to find that Cindy's stuff was gone as well. Racing to the phone he called Brian.
"'Ello?"
"Brian, it's Rog. They're gone!" He cried.
"Whose gone, Rog?"
"Cindy! She's gone and she's taken Kenzie with her."
"Hold tight, I'm on my way over."

Roger hung up the phone and dropped his face in his hands. The pain in his chest felt like a large black hole had settled where his heart once was. His girlfriend was gone and she'd taken their daughter with her. He wiped his face and began searching the house again for a note. Anything she may have left that would tell him where she'd went.

“Hey.” Kenz placed her hand on his arm. “You ok?” She noticed the strange look on his face.
She had changed very little in fifteen years. She had left him and taken their daughter with her. She had changed her name and intended to keep her hidden from him, only they had met by chance and now he had the proof looking him in the face. He had found his daughter.
“I’m fine.” He smiled down at her.
“Nat and I love pictures.” She giggled as she looked at the tons of frames.
“I like them.” He hugged Nat as she walked down. “How are you, Nat?”
“I’m good. How are you, Rog?” She smiled.
“Hungry.” He laughed.
“Let’s cook dinner.”

They went to work preparing and cooking steaks, potatoes, vegetables, and salad. When everything was ready they sat on the back deck and ate.
“This is delicious.” Roger tried the food.
“Thanks.” Nat smiled. “We both love to cook.”
“I know what you mean. After being on the road so much it’s nice to come home and cook a good meal.” He tried to push down the food. It was delicious but he could hardly eat with his nerves. He was still wound up over finding his daughter. Finding the proof that the woman sitting across from him was her.

Fifteen years. It had been fifteen years since he'd sat down with his daughter. The extreme nervousness he felt was the only thing masking the excitement he was feeling at finally knowing where she was. So much time lost, and for what? What reason had Cindy had for leaving and taking her? What reason did she have for depriving them both of so much time together? Time they would never get back.

“Have you lived in LA long?” Kenz sipped her beer, bringing him back to the conversation at hand.
“I bought a house here about…..ten years ago.” Roger drank his beer.
“Is it on the bay?” Nat chewed on her fries.
“Close. Only a few blocks.”
They finished dinner and then stayed on the porch and drank while talking. Finely, around 9:00 Roger went home.
“I’m not even tired.” Nat grabbed another beer.
“Me either.” Kenz followed her back to the deck. She laid down in the chair and closed her eyes.
"What should we do?" Nat spoke as the phone rang. "Natalie."
"Yo, Nat! It's Amber."
"Hey, how are you?"
"Great. There's a party at the house. You and Kenz wanna come?"
"Wanna go to a party at Amber's?" Nat looked at Kenz.
"That's a dumb question." Kenz jumped off the couch and grabbed her phone.
"Gotta go before she leaves me. See ya in a few." Nat hung up and grabbed her purse.

Roger's mind was whirling as he pulled into his driveway. He quickly walked in and ran to the phone.
"Rog?" His wife, Alexandra, walked in. "What's the matter?"
"I found her!" He dialed.
"Really?" Her eyes widened.
"'Ello?" Brian answered half-asleep.
"It's her. It's Mackenzie."
"How do you know?" He sat up in bed.
"I saw a photo of her and her mother tonight." He began to cry. "It's Cindy, Brian. Cindy Thomas."
"Settle down, Roger."
"I found my little girl." He rubbed his face as his wife wrapped her arms around him.
"Did she say anything?" Brian sighed.
"No. I'm not sure if she wants to talk about it. And I'm not going to push her."
"I think that's a good idea."

"I was thinking of callin' Nat and seein' if the girls want to get together tomorrow." Joe looked at Sav.
"Sounds good to me." Sav sipped on his beer as he watched the tele.
Joe dialed Nat's cell phone.
"Natalie Grimmer." She yelled over the music.
"It's Joe." He chuckled.
"Hey! Just a sec." She ran through the house to the balcony where it was a little quieter. "There."
"Party?"
"Some old friends from school. What's up?"
"Sav and I were talking about getting together with you girls tomorrow if you like."
"I think I'd like that." She flirted. "Let me check with Kenz."
Joe held the phone away from his ear as she hollered for Kenz.
"Where the bloody hell are they?" Sav laughed.
"Party." Joe laughed.
"Hurry!" Joe heard Kenz walk up. "Bryce just showed up."
"Joe and Sav want to hang together tomorrow." Nat laughed.
"Tell them we'll pick them up in the morning and go to the beach." She ran back into the party.
"I heard." Joe smiled as Nat started to speak again.
"See ya then." Nat hung up.

The next morning the girls picked the guys up and headed for the Santa Monica pier. Kenz and Nat both wore a pair of cutoff jean shorts with their bikini tops. When they arrived they decided to relax first and work on their tans.
"Could you rub oil on my back?" Kenz handed Sav the bottle of tanning oil.
"Sure." He watched as she slipped out of her shorts to reveal a pair thong bikini bottoms. She walked around and sat between his legs and waited. He opened the bottle and poured oil on his hands.
"Toss that to me." Joe pointed to the bottle. Kenz picked it up and gave it a toss.
"Mmm." She moaned as Sav’s hands rubbed over her back. Sav closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "That feels good." She whispered.

Joe worked on rubbing oil over Nat's back. His only problem was that he couldn't keep his hands from wondering. He started with her back then worked over her shoulders and down her arms.
"I said my back." Nat smiled as his hands slid around her sides to her stomach.
"I can't help it. They have a mind of their own sometimes." He kissed her ear as his hands moved across the top of her bottoms. "Joe..." His hands slipped under her suit.
"Shhh."

Kenz leaned back against Sav's chest and looked up at him.
"Yes?" He smiled down at her.
"I'm sorry."
"For?" He chuckled.
"For the night in the bar. For leaving you....."
"Don't worry about it." He kissed her forehead. "You can make it up to me tonight by taking me out on the town."
"Deal." She smiled.

They finished out the day playing volleyball. The girls held back while playing as to not completely slam the guys. After the first game they realized that Joe and Sav were definitely not volleyball players.
"I think you let us win." Joe smacked Nat on the ass.
"Why would you say that?" Kenz looked over her sunglasses at him.
"Were we that obvious?" Nat flirted.
"Just a little." Sav laughed.
"Wanna have dinner at Taekos?" Kenz threw her stuff in Nat's car.
"Sounds good." Nat climbed in. "We'll drop you guys off and let you clean up while Kenz and I go home. We'll pick you back up on the way there."

They dropped off the guys and then went back to the house and showered and got ready. When they were finished they returned to the guys hotel.
"Ready?" Nat smiled.
"Let's go." Joe hopped in the passenger's seat as Sav climbed in back with Kenz.
"So what kinda restaurant is this?" Sav put his arm behind Kenz.
"Japanese." Nat smiled at Joe. Joe looked back at Sav and smiled.

They arrived at the restaurant and were seated at a corner table. They started out with some saki.
"Here...try some." Sav handed the saki to Kenz.
She took a small sip and smiled. "Mmm. I like that."
"I think this was an excellent idea." Joe flirted with Nat. His cheeks were already flushed from the saki.
"I read that Japanese was your favorite."
"A woman who likes to please." He kissed her.
"Think they'll make it through dinner?" Sav smiled at Kenz.
"Without getting us thrown out?" She giggled. "I doubt that's possible."

They worked through more saki by the time the sushi arrived. Joe and Nat took turns feeding each other, getting more creative as they went. He dipped his finger in the saki then ran his finger down her neck to the top of her breasts. Smiling, he bent over her and kissed the trail of saki.
"Joe!" Kenz smacked him.
"You're gonna get us kicked out." Sav chuckled.
"Maybe we should leave them alone." Kenz grabbed his hand and walked out.

"Where are you taking me now?" Sav flirted.
"Wait and see." She climbed into a cab. She spoke to the driver then pulled out a mirror and a makeup bag from her purse. "Here." She handed him the mirror. "Hold this." She then proceeded to apply a little more eyeliner and freshened her lipstick. Checking her reflection, she pulled the tie from her hair and let it fall across her shoulders. Sav just sat back and watched. He had a lot to learn about the woman sitting with him. And he found himself more anxious to do just that.

There was a long line at the Whiskey. Kenz looked up at the door and turned to Sav. "Stay here for a sec. Just in case this doesn't work." She slid her jacket off to reveal a blue silk tank top. "Here." She handed her jacket to him.
"Go for it." He smiled.
She walked to the front of the line and smiled at the bouncer.
"Kenzie Thomas!" He smiled. "I haven't seen you in ages!"
"It's beena while, Rocky." She flirted. "What's with the line?"
"Alice Cooper's in tonight. It's packed." He looked her over.
"Any chance of me and my friend being one of the privileged?" She pulled a wad of money from her bra.
"Depends." His eyes lit up. "The usual?"
"Two." She smiled.
"You got it!" He unlatched the rope barricade.
She waved at Sav and then turned around. "You're still drinking Jack?"
"Oh yeah." He let Sav through.
"Cool."
She took his hand and led him to the packed bar.
"Kenzie!" The bartender yelled. He quickly threw five glasses of vodka in front of her.
"Thanks Chuck! I'll also have two for Rocky and..." She looked at Sav as she downed a shot.
"Scotch and soder!" He smiled.
"You got it." Chuck went to work. "Two Jack's and a scotch and soda."
"Thanks." She took the two shots. "I'll be right back." She headed for the front door. She returned a few minutes later to see that Sav had ordered her another round.
"This is a pretty cool place." He looked around.
"Nat and I like it. Rocky doesn't give us any trouble if you know what I mean."
"You seem to have a way with men." He laughed.
"Some of them." She flirted.

They sat at the bar and drank a few more rounds. They were talking and having a good time when a tall, dark-headed man approached Kenz.
"Hey, doll. I haven't seen you around here before." He rubbed the back of her neck.
"Then you obviously need your eyes checked." She pushed his hand away.
"Wanna dance?" He persisted.
"No."
"C'mon." He grabbed her arm. "I know you want to."
"I said no." She looked him square in the eye. Sav started to move from his seat. "Sit down." She looked over at him.
"Darlin...."
"Chuck....I have a problem." She looked at the bartender. He waived the bouncer over.
"Problem here, Kenzie?" Dennis smiled at her.
"Doesn't know the meaning of the word 'no'."
"Let's go." Dennis grabbed onto him and escorted him outta of the bar.
"Do you want to hit another place?" Sav finished his drink.
"Yeah. Let's go to the Coyote." She downed her last shot.

They arrived at the Coyote and quickly began drinking again.
"So you applied to Polygram straight outta high school?" Sav sipped his drink.
"Nat and I both did. I was amazed when we were excepted."
"Your photography is very good." He brushed her hair over her shoulder.
"I'll take that as a compliment." She flirted.
"Good." He laughed. "It was meant as one."
"How about another dancing lesson?" She leaned toward him.
"I told you..." He touched the end of her nose. "I don't dance."
"Great." She grabbed his hand and pulled him out to the dance floor. "Remember what I showed you the last time?" She placed her hands on his hips and moved them with hers.
"Yeah." He hovered over her. "You showed me what it was like to get completely turned on then sent home to a cold shower." He teased.
"And yet you've come back for more." She pushed her hips into him.
"Mackenzie?" Susannah Hoffs, of the Bangles, smiled.
"Suz! How are ya?" Kenz smiled at her.
"Out havin a little fun." She looked at Sav. "Who’s your friend?"
"Rick Savage...this is Susannah Hoffs. Suz, ....this is Sav."
"Nice to meet you." Sav shook her hand.
"My pleasure." Suz flirted. "Whatcha guys doing?"
"I'm giving him a dance lesson." Kenz giggled.
"Oh, this could be fun."
"Wanna help?" Kenz stepped away from him. I need a drink."
"I'll take care of him while your gone." She slid up next to him and he placed his hands on her hips.

Kenz ran to the bar and ordered her drink. She turned back around and watched Sav and Suz dance. He seemed to be enjoying himself. When she returned, Susannah slid behind Sav as Kenz rubbed up against him.
"Having a good time?" She gave him that look. The one that sent a shiver down his back.
"It's getting better." He smiled as Suz grabbed his ass. Kenz was surprised when he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her to him, resting his hand on her lower back. She felt her skin burn under his touch and her breathing became more rapid.
"I think I'm getting the hang of this." He flirted.
"I'll be the judge of that." She wrapped her arms around his neck and Suz gave her a high five.
"Nice ass." Suz whispered in his ear. Sav closed his eyes and smiled. This definitely beat sitting in the hotel room thinking about her.
"I think...." Kenz ran her finger down his cheek and across his lips. "That I shouldn't have let you go home alone that night."
"Thinking of what you missed?" He kissed her finger.
"I'm thinking that I'd like to find out what it is that you have....." She stopped as he leaned closer. They were now nose to nose. Closer and closer......
"Wow." His eyes got big as Suz ran her hand around the front of his jeans.
"Excuse me." Kenz ran off to the restroom.
"Care to join me for the evening?" Suz kissed his neck.
"I think...." He looked toward the ladies room. "After you." He grabbed her hand and they headed for the door.
Kenz walked back to the dance floor and looked around. She didn't see them so she headed for the bar. As she was walking she saw Sav and Suz walking out of the door.

Kenz walked into the house and slammed the door.
"What's wrong?" Nat looked up from where her and Joe sat on the couch.
"The fucker ditched me at the club!" She threw her purse down.
Nat tried to hide her smile. "That sounds familiar."
"At least when I did it, I left him with friends." She huffed.
"Where did he go?" Joe asked.
"He walked out with Susannah Hoffs." Kenz glared at him.
"Need me to call someone?" Nat looked at her.
"That's ok. I'll take care of it myself." She grabbed a bottle of vodka and walked to her room.

* * * * *

"Mackenzie Thomas."
"Hey, love." Steve smiled to himself.
"Steve, how goes?" Kenz set her bag down at the house in London.
"We've been waiting for you girls to get here. Beer and food at Joe's."
"I need a shower." She looked at Nat. "Beer and food at Joe's."
"Give us an hour." She ran up the stairs.
"Hear that?" Kenz spoke into the phone.
"See ya then."
"Bye." She hung up and quickly ran to her room to shower.

Joe and Sav sat on the back deck manning the grill while the other guys took a swim.
"So..." Joe flipped the steaks. "Wanna tell me what the hell you were thinking?"
"Huh?" Sav looked at him.
"Kenzie. She tells me you left with Susannah Hoffs the night she took you out."
"It was starting out like the night we all went out together." He drank his beer.
"So you ditched her? Brilliant!" He smacked him on the back of the head.
"Why do you keep doing that?" He rubbed the back of his head.
"You were gonna get laid!"
"It's more than that with Kenzie." Sav sighed.
"What do you mean?" He took a drink.
"I can't really explain it." He shoved his hand in his pocket. "I just get this feeling when I'm around her."
"Then talk to her."
"She's to young to be ready for something like that." He watched the guys in the pool.
"Tell her how you feel." Joe looked at him.
"Why? It's obvious that she's not after that."
"What makes you say that?"
"Oh, I don't know. She gets me worked up then ditches me." He huffed.
"So you do the same to her?" Joe shook his head.
"Paybacks are a bitch!" He chuckled.
"Don't be a dumbass and piss her off!" Joe smacked his head again.

"Hey!" Kenzie smiled as she and Nat walked out back.
"Kenzie!" Steve jumped outta the pool with the others following.
"Don't you even think about it!" She giggled as he tried to hug her. "You're soaked."
"So?" Joe smiled as Nat walked up to him. "We can have a wet T-shirt contest."
"Mmm." Kenz tapped her finger on her chin. "Let me guess who will get your vote." She laughed.
"You'll have mine." Steve whispered in her ear as he hugged her.
"Steve!" She squealed as Phil and Rick wrapped their arms around her from the sides. "Help!"
"I'll get you a beer." Steve kissed her cheek. "It's good to see you, Kenzie."
"How have you been?" Phil smiled as Steve walked into the house.
"Busy. How are you, Phil?"
"Up to no good."
"Isn't that the truth!" Sav laughed. Kenz turned and glared at him over her sunglasses. He was making his way towards her.

"Can we talk a second?" He pleaded as the others went to greet Nat.
"Why?" She kept and even tone though his hand was making her skin tingle.
"About me ditching you in LA."
"Oh." She smiled and leaned close to him. "Don't worry about it. I have sex toys so there was no need for me to take a cold shower." She patted his cheek and joined Steve as he walked out of the house with her beer.
They ate dinner and remained around the pool drinking and laughing.
"How long are you girls here this time?" Rick finished his beer.
"Through September." Nat smiled.
"Part vacation, part work." Kenz slammed another shot of vodka.
"Here, try this." Joe handed her a bottle of Dewars.
She took a drink. "Ew! That's the worse stuff I've ever tasted!" She made a funny face as everyone laughed.
"Bloody women." Phil laughed.
"Bite me." She playfully smacked his arm.
"Try this. I think you'll like it." Steve handed her another bottle. She took a drink and smacked her lips.
"Ooh. I like." She giggled. "What is it?" She took another drink.
"Everclear and Kool-Aid."
"She'll be on her ass in no time." Sav laughed.
"Oh, I'm good to go for a while." She flirted.
"Considering it's the last bottle in the house." Rick walked back outside.
"No shit?" Joe looked up.
"Joe!" Nat looked at him.
"I can go to the liquor store." Kenz jumped up.
"I'll go with ya." Sav stood.
"I can handle it." She looked at him. He looked at her a moment then sat back down. She took orders from everyone as Steve tried to think.
"Why don't I just buy the whole store?" Kenz laughed as she wrote down all the liquor requests.
"I'll go and help you." Steve whispered in her ear.
"Why? You always drink the same thing." She smiled.
"I might find something different."
"Ok." She looked back at the others. "Anything else?"
"I'll go to!" Phil jumped out of his seat.
"That should be it." Joe threw her a wad of cash. "You better come back!" He pointed at her.
"We will." She grabbed his bottle of Dewars and took a drink.

They walked into the liquor store and began filling the cart with the items from the list. "So,..what are you drinking?" Kenz looked at him.
"Vodka, of course." He smiled as he added a few bottles to the cart.
"It's time we show you how to drink 'Twins' style." Phil snickered.
"Wanker." She giggled.
"I heard that." He laughed.
"I picked it up from Joe." She smiled. She grabbed another bottle then rounded the corner. "The pucker is over...." She bumped into someone then heard a bottle bust against the floor. "Shit!" She huffed and looked up to see Roger and Brian.
"Kenzie!" Roger looked at her.
"I'm so sorry." Kenz apologized. Roger didn't say anything.
"It's ok." Brian reached over and hugged her. "How are you?"
"Good." She smiled.
"Steve." Brian shook his hand. "Phil."
"How goes, guys?" Phil smiled.
"Not bad." Brian nudged Roger.
"Just taken it easy." Roger looked at Kenz.
"You'll have to stop by the house and see us." Kenz hugged him.
"I will." He held tightly. He was hugging his daughter. And knew for sure that it was her. He was afraid to let go.
"So, looks like you two are buying for a party." Brian laughed.
"Liquor run for the house." Steve put his arm around Kenz's shoulders.
"Have you called to wish your Mum happy birthday?" Roger smiled at Kenz.
"Huh?" Kenz looked confused. How did he know it was her mom's birthday?
Brian looked between Roger and Kenz and quickly tried to think of something. "We knew your mum a long time ago."
"Oh." Kenz thought a moment. "How did you know who my mom was?" She became suspicious.
"I saw a picture of the two of you at your house." Roger covered himself.
"You should have said something then. I would have called her."
"Maybe you can give me her number and I'll call her so we can catch up."
"Sure." Kenz dug for a paper and pen. When she found it she used Steve's back to write it down.
"Always knew I was good for something." He laughed.
"Oh, hush!" Kenz giggled. "Here." She handed the paper to Roger.
"Thanks, love." He smiled.
"We better let you go." Brian waived. "See ya, Kenzie."
"Bye." She waived.

All three of them laughed as they placed the bottles on the counter to check out.
"Joe's not gonna need liquor for a while." Phil placed another bottle on the counter.
"As long as he's buyin'." Steve looked at Kenz. She pulled out the wad of money and paid. Once in the car Steve and Phil looked at each other before Steve pulled a vile from the glove box.
"You wanna try it?" Steve looked at Kenz.
"What the hell is it?"
"Coke." Phil watched as Steve snorted a line.
"Nah. Go ahead."
Steve handed the vile to Phil. He snorted his own line and then replaced the cap and handed it to Steve.
"Ya sure?" He asked again. Kenz staired at the vile.
"It's a great feelin'." Phil whispered in her ear. She smiled as she nodded her head to Steve. He quickly cut a line for her and intructed her on what to do. She sat back after doing the line and closed her eyes.
"It burns."
"Just for a minute." Steve assured her. "How's it feel now?"
"Not so bad." She giggled. The Twins looked at each other and smiled.

"What's taking those two so bloody long?" Sav huffed.
"Calm down. The alcohol will be here soon." Phil laughed.
"Knowing Kenz, she probably ran into someone she knows." Nat smiled. "It's a real bitch to go somewhere with her when you're in a hurry. I think she knows everyone."
"Wipe that bloody frown off your face before she gets here." Joe warned.
"Piss off!" He huffed and dove into the pool.
"We're back." Steve sat down the bags on the table.
"Cool." Rick jumped up and grabbed a beer.
"We ran into Roger and Brian." Kenz opened a bottle of Tequila.
"Told you." Nat smiled at Sav.
"Think you know everything." Sav flipped her off.
"Keep your hands off." Joe joked. "This one is mine."
"Don't we know it." Phil laughed.
"Yeah, we heard you going at it earlier." Rick followed.

Kenz sat in the dark room that she and Nat used going over some photos. She yawned as she looked at her watch. 3:00 in the morning. Maybe she should just turn in and work on them more in the morning. As she walked through the kitchen the phone began to ring.
"Hello?" She huffed. Who the hell would be calling at this hour?
"Kenzie!" Phil and Steve yelled into the phone.
"Twins!" She could tell they were pissed drunk.
"We need a ride." Steve slurred.
"Please." Phil followed.
"Where are you?" She laughed.
"Um..." Steve looked around. "Barney's."
"Fine. Tell Pete I'm on my way to get you." She hung up and grabbed her keys.

Ten minutes later she walked into Barney's to find the two of them sitting at the bar, singing.
"Hey, Pete." She laughed as she walked to the bar.
"Kenzie!" Phil drunkenly clinged to her.
"Ready?" She looked at them.
"Aye....sit and 'ave a round with us." He pulled her to the bar.
"Bloody good ideer!" Steve turned to Pete. "Three rounds."
Pete looked up to Kenz and waited. "One round then I'm taking you home." She sat down between them. Quickly, fifteen shots of Tequila were placed in front of them and just as quickly disappeared.
"Let's go!" Kenz pulled them to her feet.
"Can you handle them, love?" Pete watched them stagger to the door.
"We're fine. Bye!" She walked out and helped the guys into the car. Climbing behind the wheel she took off for Steve's apartment. She listened as they mumbled to each other.
"Bloody women, anyway!" Steve slurred.
"That's right." Phil agreed.
"Be nice, boys."
"American ones at that." Steve continued.
"Don't piss off the driver." She looked at them in her mirror.
"Stop the car and let us out! We want to drink." Phil looked at her.
"No. I'm taking you home."
"Stop the car." Steve said in a nicer voice.
"No." She again said as Steve leaned up and puked on the floor.
"Aw! Not on me boots, mate!" Phil grimaced.

The next morning Kenz woke up on the sofa at Steve's. Looking around she noticed that the Twins were still asleep on the floor. An evil grin covered her face as she bent down between them.
"Rise and Shine!" She yelled.
"Aw! Kenzie!" Phil tried to cover his ears.
"Kenz!" Steve huffed.
"C'mon, now! You have a car to clean!" She yelled as she stood up.
"Huh?" Phil turned over to look at her.
"Steve puked in my car last night. You need to clean it up."
"No way!" Steve's stomach turned.
"I'll puke if I do that." Phil held his stomach.
"Wimps!" She kicked their legs. "C'mon. It's the price you pay for not inviting me!" She walked off to the kitchen.

Kenz sat on the couch staring at the tickets for the Journey concert that night. She had asked Nat, Joe, Steve, Phil, and Rick to go and no one wanted to. She picked up the phone and dialed.
"'ello?" Joe answered.
"Hey, it's Kenzie."
"What's up, love?"
"Is Sav around?"
"At his house in Sheffield."
"Oh." She sighed. Mark him off the list too.
"Want the number there?"
"Sure." She wrote down the number he gave then hung up. She immediately dialed again. "'ello." A British male voice answered.
"Is Rick there?" She hoped she dialed the number correctly.
"Just a second." Brian, Sav's brother, walked through the house. "Phone!" He yelled threw the bathroom door as the shower turned off.
"Who is it?" Sav huffed.
"A girl." He laughed.
Sav tried to think of what girl he gave his number here to as he walked to the phone. "'ello?"
"Sav?" Kenz sounded unsure.
"Kenzie?" He looked at Brian.
"That's the girl you've been runnin' your bloody mouth about non-stop?" Brian smiled.
"Look, I have two tickets to the Journey concert tonight." She paused a moment. "Would you like to go with me?"
"Are you serious?" He became excited. That was one of his favorite bands.
"Are you still there?"
"I'd love to go." He looked down at his towel.
"Great." She giggled. "Tell me how to get there and I'll pick you up."
He gave her directions to the house. "When should I expect you?"
"I'll be there in about two hours. I still have to get ready." She stood up and walked to her room.
"See ya then."
"Bye." She hung up and threw the phone on her bed.

Talking about her non-stop, huh? She smiled to herself as she walked into her closet. She looked through her clothes and decided on a pair of short blue jean shorts and a bright blue halter-top. She quickly showered and did her makeup. Then she curled her hair and then put on her keds. She took one last look in the mirror. If she didn't get his attention tonight the man was blind.
She followed his directions and found the house easily. She walked to the door and knocked. "Kenzie?" A handsome man, who resembled Sav answered the door.
"Hi." She smiled.
"Come on in. I'm Brian, Rick's brother." He smiled at her. Rick hadn't lied. She was incredible sexy. That blonde hair alone could drive a man wild. He found his own hands itching to run through it.
"Hey." Sav walked in wearing a pair of jeans and a white shirt half unbuttoned. "Did you find it alright?" He smiled at her.
"Yes.” She stared at his chest.
"You going to introduce us?" John walked in.
"Kenzie, these are John and Brian." He pointed to each. "My brothers." He walked beside her and placed his arm around her waist. "Guys, this is Mackenzie Thomas."
"Nice to meet you." John kissed her hand.
"You, too." She smiled and looked at Sav. "Are you ready?"
"Yeah. Let's go." They walked out to the car. "Would you like me to drive?"
"If ya like." She tossed him the keys.
"You look very nice." He smiled at her as they drove.
"You look pretty good yourself." She flirted. She was about to speak again when her phone rang. "Mackenzie Thomas." She answered.
"Mackenzie, it's Tim."
"Yeah." She reached for her planner in the back.
"There's a David Bowie concert on the 27th I need for you to cover." He read her the details.
"What are they looking for?" She scribbled some notes. "Got it."
"Take it easy." Tim chuckled. "And keep up the good work."
"Bye."
"Work?" Sav pulled into the arena.
"Bowie concert on the 27th." She smiled as they parked.
"Cool. Joe's a big fan of his." He held her hand as they walked. "By the way. Thanks for asking to go with you." He kissed her cheek.
"We're gonna have a blast." She pulled out the tickets as they reached the gate. They walked in and quickly found their seats. To his surprise they were in the front row.
"Wanna beer?" He looked around as they reached their seats.
"That sounds good."
"Be right back." He walked over and got their beer and quickly returned.

They had gone through three rounds before the concert started and another five during. "Let's see if those dance lessons have paid off." She grabbed him on the next song. He surprised her by not giving a fight. He had also improved. She rubbed her hips against his and he responded by sliding his hand down her back and pulling her closer. She looked up to see that he was watching her, that sexy smile of his covering his face. Her heart pounded faster as they both stopped dancing. They continued to stare at each other as he brought his hand up to caress her cheek. He was just about to kiss her when the crowd went nuts. They turned to the stage to see the band walking off.
"I guess the concert's over." She whispered.
"Yeah." He continued to watch her.
"We should go." She stepped back from his touch. He took a second as if he was going to say something then didn't. He grabbed her hand as they began to walk.
"That was awesome. I wish we could talk to them." He spoke as they walked past the security entrance to backstage.
"Let's go then." She pulled him toward the gate and pulled out her press badge. They walked right by the security personnel to the backstage area.
"Kenzie!" Jon smiled as he saw them.
"Jon!" Kenz ran over and hugged him. As he set her back on the ground he planted a huge kiss on her.

Sav stood back and watched. There was not a dull moment to be spent with this woman. And not a man she didn't know, he thought as the rest of the band greeted her.
"C'mere." She waived back at Sav. "Guys, this is my friend Rick Savage."
"Def Leppard, right?" Steve shook his hand.
"Yeah." Sav smiled.
"I like your music."
"A friend of Kenzie's, huh?" Jon looked him over. "Nice to meet you." He shook his hand. They talked with the group for a couple of hours. By the time they walked out Sav was in awe.
"Did you have fun?" Kenz grabbed his hand as they headed for the car.
"A blast!" He smiled at her. They reached the car and he opened her door for her. She smiled as she climbed in. She really enjoyed herself tonight. She was glad she had asked him.
"Traffic shouldn't be that bad now." He started the engine.
She placed her hand on his arm as he went to put it in gear. "Thank you for coming." She looked up at him. "I had a very nice time."
"Thank you for asking me." He chuckled. "I guess we can go out and have a good time together."
"I guess so." Her heart raced as he moved closer. He stopped as they were nose to nose.
"I've wanted to do this for a while now." He brushed his lips against hers as he brought his hand up to cup her face. His tongue parted her lips and a small moan escaped her throat and he pulled her closer. "Kenzie." He broke from the kiss.
Her eyes remained closed. "Hmm." She moaned as he kissed her again. The passion increased as he pulled her over onto his lap. He moved to kiss her chin, neck, working his way to her chest as she ran her hands under his open shirt.
His heart was racing as he felt hers beat hard against her chest.
"Maybe we should head to the house and finish this there." He whispered against her chest.
"If we don't we may never make it there tonight." She tried to slow her breathing.
"I'll stop if you do." He continued to kiss her as he ran his hands up and down her back. Finally, Kenz smiled at him then turned over into her own seat.
"Hurry every chance you get." She sighed.
"That I can do." He took off. She continued to tease him the whole way home. They pulled into the driveway to see the lights still on. Damn! Maybe John and Brian left a couple on when they left.

They walked into the front door while kissing to hear the television on. Sav looked up to see Brian and John watching them with smiles on their faces.
"Have a good time?" John looked at Kenz.
"Fabulous." She smiled.
It was obvious to Sav that they were not going to be left alone that night. "Would you like a drink?"
"Do you have any wine?" She smiled.
"Be right back." He walked to the kitchen as he glared at his brothers. When he returned they had her sitting between them talking. He handed her the glass of wine.
"John and Brian were just teaching me about soccer." She pointed to the tele.
"You'll have to come play with us sometime." He smiled.
"Oh, yes!" Brian agreed.
"It'll be fun." John followed. "Rick over here thinks he's a soccer God." He laughed.
"Why is that?" Kenz raised her eyebrows as she looked at Sav. Before he could answer John started in again.
"If he hadn't joined the band he would probably be playing soccer professionally."
"Really?" Kenz was amazed. "I guess I'll have to see you play sometime."

When Kenz woke up the next morning she was in a bed covered up. She looked around and realized it was Sav's. She smiled at all the soccer stuff he had sitting around along with a few pictures on his dresser of him and the guys with Queen. She grabbed her shoes and walked out to the living room where she found him on the couch.
"Morning." She leaned down and kissed him.
"Mornin'." He smiled.
"I have to go." She sat down next to him and slipped on her shoes.
"Will you be ok?" He noticed it was only 6:00. She looked absolutely incredible first thing in the morning.
"I'll be fine." She looked at her watch. "I have just enough time to make it home for my morning run with Nat."
"I'll see you tonight then." He smiled.
"Tonight?" She looked confused.
"Pub hopin' with the lads."
"Oh, yeah." She giggled. "See ya then."
"Count on it." He pulled her down and kissed her. She was practically laying with him when he broke from the kiss. "Stay." He whispered without opening his eyes.
"It's tempting....but, " She listened as she heard a door open. "You have company." She smiled and got up. "I'll see you tonight." She walked out.
"Another date?" Brian walked in the living room.
"Piss off!" Sav threw back the cover. "What the bloody hell were the two of you still doing here last night?" He walked to the kitchen.
"Waiting to see if you made it home." He laughed.
"Have fun last night?" John joined them.
"Up till the point we got back here." Sav huffed.
"Cranky when he sleeps on the couch." Brian looked at John.
"Watch it!" Sav pointed to him.
"How did you land a babe like that anyway?" John poured his juice.
"She's a friend of ours."
"So the rest of the band knows her as well?" Brian was surprised.
"And she choice you?" John laughed.
"Joe must not have tried that hard." Brian walked out.
"Piss off!" Sav flipped the bird toward the wall.

Nat was tying her tennis shoes when Kenz ran into the house.
"So nice of you to join me." She looked at her watch.
"Let me change and I'll be right down!" She ran up the stairs.
"Un, huh." She smiled.

They ran through the streets and past the park. "I'm dyin' to know, Kenz."
"His brothers were there when we got back, so we just sat around and talked all night!"
"You're kidding! Damn!"
"Tell me about it." She laughed. "I can tell you though, he is one hell of a kisser. I mean... damn. The man can use his tongue."
"Better than Joe?"
"I wouldn't know, Nat." She laughed.
"Guess not." She smiled as they sped up.

A Picture's Worth A Thousand Words 2
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