106

Trevor stared up at Ginger, not knowing how to answer. Michael saved him.

“That’s correct, luv,” Michael said. “Be easy on him, though. He’s got one more day of tryouts with us tomorrow.”

Ginger looked at the handsome teen and smiled impressively. “So, you’ve been asked to tryout for Manchester?”

Trevor found his voice. “Um, yes…..goalie.”

“You must be very good,” she cooed, feeling a bit nervous herself. She had done countless lap dances for countless men. Why was she nervous about this one? She gathered her wits then whispered in his ear.

“Follow me.”

Trevor stood up on shaky legs before taking one last look at the guys.

“Remember laddie…..its just a dance,” Ethan reminded, trying to contain his mirth.

Trevor followed Ginger to one of the booths and she closed the black curtain behind them. There was a soft chair in there which she pushed Trevor down into. The house music was loud and grinding enough to provide the type of beat she wanted. This was obviously his first lap dance and she wanted him to remember it forever. However, his fresh, youthfulness, not to mention his sexy hazel eyes and quaint shyness, was making her consider more than just a dance.

The rules of the club were clear – the men were not allowed to touch the dancers, unless….of course, the dancers allowed it in a private booth. She was barely 21 and had done this many times with men who were used to it. Never did she allow them to touch her. The sudden memory of how many sleazy men she danced for made her yearn to capture some of Trevor’s fresh innocence.

She began to sway in front of him as her long, lean arms gracefully swirled about her body in a seductive manner.

“So…..tell me your name, sweetie.”

“Trevor.”

“How old are you, Trevor?”

“Eighteen.”

Eighteen. He was only 3 years younger than her, yet she felt as if she’d been around the block several times. It wasn’t that long ago that she was fresh out of high school without any money to attend university. Dancing at the Kitten Klub provided that.

She continued to move in ways that made every nerve in Trevor’s body come alive. He kept reminding himself that it was just a dance, but…..this was no ordinary dancing. His head was still buzzing a bit from the ale he drank earlier and he actually felt a bit relaxed. He just concentrated on Ginger’s exquisite body as she danced for him.

She then bent over and put her hands on his knees and ran them up as she scooted forward and straddled his lap. Trevor sucked his breath in. He knew what lap dances consisted of, but still the shock of it happening took him by surprise. And his damn body had a life of its own as it responded to this gorgeous young woman writhing around on his lap.

Her hands cupped the back of his neck as she threw her head back and ground her hips foreward. She brought her head back then took her hands to slide the spaghetti straps of her dress down her shoulders and wriggle out of them. She then pulled the top half of her dress down until it pooled around her waist, exposing her perfect little breasts.

Trevor was about to die. He was also filled with guilt. Here he had a beautiful, wonderful girfriend who supported his soccer career back in Sheffield while he was here in Manchester having the lap dance of his life. However, the guilt would not overtake the lust that overtook his body.

Ginger cupped her bare breasts as she watched Trevor’s face react to what she was doing. She was amazed that someone so young was able to restrain himself from touching her, as most of her clients usually tried to sneak in a grope before she had to slap their hands away.

But, Ginger wanted to feel his hands on her skin. She wanted that freshness he exuded. She took his hands and placed them on her waist, watching the reaction to the feel of her skin.

“Are you doing okay, Trevor?”

“Y…y…yeah…..fine,” he stammered. His eyes went from her breasts to her turquoise eyes. “Crikey, you…….you are so beautiful.”

She leaned closer to his face. “Thank you. So are you. So young…..so sweet,” she murmured near his lips. “So….so……..oh God.”

Ginger lightly touched her lips to his, expecting him to lose all control and just give in to it. But Trevor remained still, as if he were afraid. It made her want more, but she pulled back.

“I’m sorry, I……I couldn’t help it.”

“Its…..its okay,” Trevor stammered. “I’m sorry too. I shouldn’t, I mean….I….I have a gir……..”

Trevor was cut off when Ginger kissed him again and this time, all was lost. It was no longer a dance, but a sweet, tender kiss that was so erotic it made them both shake. The combination of the music, ale and lust made Trevor mindless. He opened his mouth and welcomed her tongue as his hands moved up her silky waist to cautiously cup her breasts.

Ginger made a purring sound in his mouth at the feel of his hands on her breasts, which caused her to grind herself against the hardness between her legs. Their heads were spinning and neither were thinking. Ginger reached down and unfastened his trousers and helped him scoot them down. She then pushed her g-string to the side and, in a mindless split second, impaled herself on him.

Trevor gasped loudly into her mouth before tearing away and throwing his head back in abandon. Ginger rested her hands on his shoulders and rode him. Even though she was on the pill, she knew she shouldn’t have sex with strange men without a condom, but Trevor’s age led her to think that he hadn’t gotten around that much.

Their mouths met again in a kiss that culminated with Trevor’s fingers digging into her skin before he climaxed inside of her just as she muffled a scream into his neck. They then exchanged a wordless look with each other that was a combination of desire and guilt together. They pulled themselves together and left the booth. Ginger gave Trevor a sweet look, smile and a wink before stroking his arm and walking off. Trevor’s wobbly legs then took him back to the table where the guys were waiting for him.

“That must’ve been some dance there, laddie,” Michael said.

Trevor’s flushed face was partially hidden by the dim lighting as he tried to remain non-chalant.

“Yeah, some dance!”

Chapter 107

Back in London……..

Mark sat in in the studio surrounded by his father, Kevin and the remaining members of Fusion, stunned by the proposition being offered to him.

“What do ya say, Mark?” Rob asked. “I mean, you’ve got the talent, that’s a no brainer. We need to finish this album so your father and Kevin don’t haul us into court! How about it?”

Mark couldn’t believe it. He was being asked by a hot new rock back to finish the drum tracks on their remaining unrecorded songs. There really wasn’t any answer other than yes.

“Of course I’ll do it,” Mark said ecstatically.

“Now Mark, playing the drums and recording drum parts are two different monsters,” Tyler warned him. “Its not gonna be like it is when you wail away in your sanctuary. Parts get recorded in sections, sometimes requiring multiple takes. You’re going to need patience, lad. A lot of it. And….you’ll need to listen to us.”

Mark shook his head. “Dad, no problem. Whatever you want. Whatever it takes. If I can help these blokes out, I’ll do it.”

Rob heard his two bandmates sigh with what sounded like a bit of relief. Even though he hadn’t officially talked to his brother yet to inform him of their decision to let him go, they all felt as if some weight had been taken off their shoulders. Zak’s personality and behavior had taken its toll on them. Even though they proved themselves to the world with their hot debut album, they wanted their career to be a long, prosperous one without any strife or contention between members.

On several occasion while they were an opening act to support their first album, Zak’s attitude almost did them in with some fans and even the band they were opening up for. They didn’t want to worry about anything while touring except playing.

Which led to their next decision – who to get to permanently replace Zak?

Tyler and Kevin started working with Mark immediately since they lost so much time. The rest of the band hung around and watched for a bit, if only to get a better feel for this outstanding, young, talented drummer.

Fortunately, Mark didn’t need much coaching. He knew the cues and the terminology and followed his father’s and Kevin’s instructions fairly easy. If things went this well, they’d be able to finish the four songs before the two weeks were up.

During the bridge of one song, Tyler was stuck on a certain kind of sound. Mark played what his father wanted over and over again, but Tyler still wasn’t satisfied. Mark didn’t know if he should speak up or not, but it didn’t hurt to ask.

“Uh, dad…..could you just play the bridge again…..with just the guitars?”

Tyler pressed the button and the bridge of the second song played. Instead of playing the piece that Tyler had formulated, Mark came in with something that his ear picked up on. The results were raised eyebrows from everyone in the room.

When the recording finished, Mark spoke to his father through the glass. “What did you think of that?”

Before he could answer, Troy answered for him. “That sounded wild! Man, that sounds so wicked combined with the bass. Guess its because I’m partial.”

Tyler looked back at Mark. “Can you do that again, Mark so we can tape it?”

“Sure. Whenever you’re ready.”

As Mark played that piece again, Troy looked at his bandmates. “Man, that kid is good. Sorry to say, Rob, but he blows Zak away.”

“Don’t be sorry dude. You’re right,” Rob said.

“So……what are we gonna do about finding a replacement?” Paul asked. “We need to do so as soon as possible so we can all rehearse together before the album’s released and the tour starts.”

“Guys, what do you think about asking Mark?” Rob asked. “I mean, he’s got the talent. He’s got the look. I know he’s 18, but he doesn’t look too much like a kid. We’re only 22 anyway ourselves. He’s personable and easy to get along with. He isn’t going to college or anything. Christ, rock stars run in his family. It’s perfect!”

“Plus, he pummeled your brother, which gives him an A in my book!” Troy mused.

Rob had no choice but to laugh. “Seriously, guys. This has to be a group thing. We need someone and we need someone fast.”

“Dude, he’s got my vote,” Troy said. “I’m really impressed.”

“Gotta say, I am too,” Paul chimed in.

“So………we ask him?” Rob said, holding his fist out.

The other two guys clicked their fists with Robs. “Lets do it!”

Chapter 108

Back in Manchester…….

Trevor made it through his second day of tryouts with ease, despite his randy evening the night before. He was very quiet after the guys returned him to his hotel room. Scott had stayed up waiting for him, but Trevor was careful not to let any lingering emotions give away what happened.

After practice, Coach Ridgeford took Trevor aside to talk to him. He informally told him that he wanted him to become part of the team as Patrick Tierney’s backup. However, since this was the pros, Trevor would need to have legal representation and possibly even an agent, for contract negotiations and such.

With a grin of satisfaction, he shook Coach Ridgeford’s hand, then pumped his fist in the air when he locked eyes with Michael, Ethan and Andrew who caught on. Over to the other side, Patrick Tierney just cautiously watched the new young hotshot who would, no doubt, buck to take his place. He’d make damn sure that would never happen.

Michael and Ethan came over to Trevor. “Congrats, laddie! Welcome to the team,” Michael said.

“So, where ya headed now?”

“Probably back home to Sheffield to tie up some loose ends and find a solicitor, I imagine. I should be back within the week.”

“Well, take care and we’ll see you then,” Michael said before looking in the distance towards the side of the bleachers. He focused his eyes on the petite, feminine figure standing there, then his jaw dropped.”

“Bugger me! Is…….is that Ginger?”

Trevor paled and turned around. Sure enough, there was Ginger, waving over to him. Ethan slapped him on the back.

“Just what did happen in that booth last night, laddie? Did…….did you shag her?”

Trevor blushed a bit. “Um….no,” he began, realizing that he could no longer act like a shy boy. He turned to walk towards Ginger, before looking over his shoulder at the guys.

“More like…..she shagged me!”

Michael and Ethan shouted with deleriousness as Trevor made his way over to Ginger. He was a bit nervous as to what she wanted. “Aye. What are you doing here?”

“Trevor, hi,” she nervously said. “I…..I didn’t want anyone to see me, but I had no other way of finding you. I came here to thank you.”

Trevor narrowed his eyes. “Thank me? For what?”

Ginger was no longer the sensuous dancer of numerous men’s fantasies, but a young, uncertain woman. “Trevor, last night……..just so you know……I have never done anything like that before. But, being with you, someone who’s so totally different from all the sleazeballs that come in there, well, it made me realize that I don’t want to degrade myself any longer by dancing. I’m in my last year of university and I think I’ve lap danced enough. I quit last night. I’m going home to spend the rest of the summer with my family before I finish my last year. I’d rather break my back waitressing or something than dance. I just wanted to tell you that and…well, to say goodbye. I’m certain you made the team and, chances are, you’ll make your way back to the Kitten Klub at some point, but you won’t see me there.”

Trevor gave her a warm smile. “Well, hopefully, I won’t see myself there in the future. I tried to tell you last night, but….I do have a girlfriend. And…I know what I did was wrong. I feel like such a wanker.”

“It was my fault,” Ginger said. “Don’t worry….we’ll take this to our graves. I’ve kept a lot of secrets from a lot of people, my parents included. They have no idea how I”ve been spending my nights. Not anymore, though.”

“Well, I’m glad you quit. You’ll do just fine. Take care now.”

“You too Trevor,” she said as she put her arms around him and hugged him. All Trevor heard were the whoops and whistles behind him. Ginger pulled away immediately.

“I better go. Bye.”

“Bye.”

Meanwhile, Scott had made his way over to the sidelines and happened upon Michael.

“Who’s that lass?” Scott asked.

“Only the hottest dancer at the strip club we took Trevor to last night,” Michael answered.

Trevor walked back over and saw his father and Michael standing together. The look on Scott’s face told Trevor that Michael said too much.

“Aw, shit!”

Chapter 109

Back in London……..

Tyler and Kevin were at the studio late as they began to finish things up. The progress they made with Mark cut their time in half and the album was finally finished.

Tyler couldn’t believe the good fortune that was just bestowed upon his son. As long as he lives, he’ll never forget the look on his face when Fusion asked him to join the band.

Kevin then cut into his thoughts. “What’ya say, Brit? Want to grab some dinner?”

“Sure,” Tyler replied. “Its just us since the band took Mark out to celebrate.”

“Man, I can’t believe it,” Kevin said, still astonished. “What an opportunity to be afforded!”

Tyler suddenly turned white as a sheet. “What…..what did you say?”

Kevin looked puzzled. “Nothing, I just said that Mark was afforded a wonderful opportunity? Why?”

Tyler stood up and paced the room, all the while holding his head.

“Ty, whats wrong?”

“Kev, this is something I haven’t told anyone. Not Grace, not Mark….not even my dad. Don’t laugh, but…….but do you believe in…you know….supernatural stuff?”

“What, like ghosts, psychics…..little green men who live in your closet?”

“Kevin, I’m serious. I mean…..have you ever had a dream that seemed so real, you thought it was? And then….you wind up having all these strange signs after the dream that you had no choice to conclude it wasn’t a dream after all?”

“None that I can say,” Kevin answered. “So….what did you have….some close encounter or something?”

Tyler turned towards him. “No. I….had a dream about Randy and Mark. Only….I don’t think it was a dream after all.”

Kevin got serious. “What are you saying? That they appeared to you as ghosts or something?”

Tyler shook his head. “I don’t know. I know I was sleeping, because I woke up after it. But I’m wondering if they used my dream to appear to me in. It was the night Mark had his appendix out. I stayed with him overnight in his room. I fell asleep in the chair, then woke when I heard the door close. I got up to open it, but it was locked – from the other side. That’s when the room got all weird and hazy. Then……it was like I was transported to the scene of the accident. I smelled smoke and fuel and……blood. I turned around and they were standing right there – wearing the same thing they had on that night. All I could do was cry and apologize for not being with them that night. They told me that I had nothing to be sorry for. Then…….they started talking about my Mark. They said……“There’s nothing to worry about. That he’s undecided now, but he’s gonna be afforded an opportunity that he won’t be able to pass up and to make sure he doesn’t.” Randy then said that there was a box in my garage with something in it to give to Mark. I woke up after that shaking. After Mark went home, I went into the garage and didn’t see any strange box. Then, as if some……supernatural force took over, a soccer ball on a shelf just rolled off. The box was hiding behind it. It had a bunch of Crossfire stuff in it. At the bottom were two of Randy’s autographed drumsticks.”

Kevin sat there dumbfounded. “Jesus Christ, you’re creeping me out! Mark told me you found a pair of his drumsticks, but I didn’t know the story behind it.”

“Now you do,” Tyler said. “And now…..this opportunity that Mark’s been afforded. Could….could this be what they meant in the dream?”

“Well, the realistic guy in me says ‘no’, but how could it not? Could it be a coincidence?”

“That’s some coincidence,” Tyler mused.

“Well, either way….Mark’s has the chance of a lifetime. Those guys are good kids, especially since Zak’s out of the picture. They’ve got the talent, the appeal – the works. Hell, they remind me of us all those years ago, only…I’m a much better looking lead guitarist than Rob!”

Tyler laughed. “Well, what do you say that, after we wrap up here, we invite the guys back to my house in Sheffield for a big dinner? I’m sure those boys are dying for some real food.”

“Sounds great,” Kevin said.

Tyler grinned wide. “Mate, wait until my dad and uncle Joe hear this!”

Chapter 110

Mark sat with the other three members of Fusion in a London pub as he celebrated the unbelievable turn of events in his life. Not even a week ago, he hadn’t a clue as what to do with his life. Now, here he is, the new drummer of a hot, young rock band. Someone was definitely smiling down upon him.

He couldn’t wait to tell Tara. He thought to call her, but since they’re wrapping up and going home the next day, he decided to wait to tell her in person. Even though the demands upon his life were going to be greater than he ever imagined, he knew that she’d be supportive of him. He just wondered how, with her starting design school in London in the fall and he having to begin rehearsing with the band as soon as possible, how they were going to ever see each other.

The four of them chowed down on burgers, chips and ale while they listened to the local houseband. Troy was the first one to speak up.

“Man, I can’t tell you how good I feel about all this. I can’t wait to start touring.”

“Me neither,” Paul said. “I hope we’ll be able to play some small venues on our own before having to open up for someone else at the bigger places.”

“You blokes opened up for Red Light last time, right?” Mark asked.

“Yeah, they were pretty good guys,” Rob said. “Zak had a run in with their guitarist which almost cost us the gig, but there were cool about it.”

That was the first mention of Zak of the night. Even though Mark was ecstatic, he couldn’t help but wonder how Rob really felt about having to replace his own brother, even though the main decision was his.

“Rob……I know you probably don’t want to talk about this, but…..I know you haven’t officially talked to Zak yet. I just don’t want my presence to cause any problems, you know?”

Rob shook his head. “Mark, trust me…it was his presence that caused the problems. Anyway, for now we called our manager to have him be the one to deliver the news to Zak. I know it’s the cowards way out, but I just don’t want to deal with him right now. I’m sure we’ll hear from him later, though. I just don’t care. The decision’s been made and its final.”

Mark felt better and the night went on as they finished their dinner and listened to the band. At one point, a young female about 19 years old came up behind Rob and tapped him on the shoulder. Rob turned around and looked her up and down appreciately before flashing her a smile.

“Hello there.”

“Um, hi,” she nervously said. “Excuse me, but…….are you guys in a band? You look familiar. I think I’ve seen you on Kerrang and MTV2. I think you’re an American band.”

Rob grinned at her. “Yes we are. We’re Fusion.”

The girl’s eyes then swept Troy, Paul and Mark, then back to Rob. “Oh God, I knew it! You guys are mega! I bought your debut album. It was so awesome. When do you have another album coming out?”

“Well, we just finished recording it,” Rob answered. “Should be in stores in a month or two….at least it will be in the States.”

The girl frowned before she called a girlfriend of hers over. “I’m sorry, my friend wanted to know if you lads were a band or not.”

“The more the merrier, sweetheart!”

Troy and Paul watched the girl’s friend come over, as did Mark who was just finding out how easily rock stars attracted girls.

The girls proceeded to get autographs and, when they came to Mark, he was unsure about what to do. Yes, he was their drummer now, but it was an official statement. One of the girls looked at him warily. “You are………?

“I’m Mark,” he answered, taking her hand.

“He’s our drummer,” Rob quickly said, giving Mark a wink.

“Oh……yeah….right,” the other girl said. “I didn’t recognize you. They usually don’t focus on the drummer too much in the videos. Never knew what you looked like.”

Mark knew that his new status might go unnoticed here in England, but over in the States where Fusion was more popular, he knew that Zak’s obvious absence would be more noticable.

The girls went back to their table, but not before passing the word around that a popular American rock band was in the house. The house band got wind of it and made the announcement, asking the guys to come up and play a song. They didn’t want to play anything from the unreleased album yet, but they also knew that Mark didn’t know anything from their debut album. At least that’s what they thought.

“If you blokes want to play something, I know most of the drums from the debut album,” Mark said. “I programmed it into my tape machine at home and took the drum tracks out so I could play them. I know most of the songs.”

Paul looked impressed. “Yeah? Which one do you think you can play now?”

“I dig ‘Crushed Love’. The drums are awesome in that one.”

Troy smiled and threw his hands up. “Maybe we won’t have to rehearse that much after all. C’mon, lets play it.”

Rob got up and clapped Mark on the shoulder as they all made their way up on stage. Paul, being the lead singer as well as the rhythem guitarist, took the mic and introduced themselves as the rest of the guys took the houseband’s instruments. Mark sat behind the drums, clearly aware that this was his first live test. He closed his eyes and tried to pretend he was in his sanctuary, but it was hard to drown out the sound of the crowd.

He wouldn’t let these guys down. He wouldn’t let himself down. Playing the drums was the only thing in his life that never waivered and now he had the opportunity to make a living with it.

Paul announced the song, then turned to Mark for a cue. Mark nodded, clicked his drumsticks together, then segued into the song. His playing left no doubt that the rest of the band made the right choice with him.

Chapter 111

Sheffield

Grace had spent a good portion of the day getting the house in order. The cleaning people had just left and the caterers were due at any moment.

When Tyler called her two days ago to tell her that he was bringing Kevin and the band back with him for dinner, she had no idea of the turn of events that took place. All she thought was that it was just going to be an impromptu dinner party. But when Tyler insisted that both their father’s be there, Grace wondered what was up.

When Grace told Tyler that Scott and Trevor had returned from Manchester with some good news, Tyler said to include them over as well. May as well make it an evening of shocking announcements!

Abby had just returned home from summer tryouts for a school play. Both sets of her grandparents were already there with Grace as they waited for Tyler to arrive with Kevin and the band.

“Mum….mum, you’ll never guess what?” Abby breathlessly said. “I got the lead! I got the lead! We’re doing a modern version of a Shakespere play called Romeo & Juliet. We’re doing it in a rock/rap style. Oh…and the best part…..Tommy Noonan is going to be Romeo. I get to kiss him!”

Grace watched her ecstatic daughter disappear upstairs in a flurry. She shook her head then looked at Joe.

“She takes after you, dad.”

“Is that a bad thing?” Joe asked.

“Well, when she’s only thirteen……..”

“Amost fourteen,” Abby called out from upstairs, obviously overhearing.

Grace let out a breath. “Sorry…..almost fourteen, and she’s this excited about kissing boys, what do you think?”

Joe put his hands up in surrender. “Grace, I swear….I was never excited about kissing boys!”

“Thank God you got over that affliction before you joined the band,” Sav said as he over heard.

“Don’t start with me!”

“You’re right, I don’t want to get you too riled,” Sav smirked. “So Grace, when’s Ty getting here?”

Grace looked up at the clock. “His tram arrived a half hour ago, so he should be walking in any moment.”

“And bringing an army with him,” Joe said. “So, who’s this young band?”

“They’re called Fusion. They’re American. Their debut album sold about 4 million copies and Ty and Kevin just helped them finish recording their follow up which should be out in a few months.”

“Hmm, wonder why Ty’s bring them back here,” Sav wondered.

“Probably because those boy’s haven’t had a home cooked meal in a long time, even though I’m having this catered. Still, its better than pub food every night. Anyway, I’m just glad they’re back. I miss my husband and my son.”

“Wait until they hear the news about Trevor,” Sav gushed proudly. “I don’t think he’s called Mark in London to tell him.”

“Speaking of Mark, I’m worried about him” Joe said. “That lad’s been fretting over his future. I hope he used this time wisely to clear his mind and think about what he wants to do.”

Chapter 112

Fifteen minutes later, Tyler walked in the front door followed by Kevin, Mark and three good looking young men that Grace had never seen before. She greeted her husband with a hug and kiss.

“This is the only good part about going away,” Tyler whispered in her ear. “The ‘coming home hug and kiss’.”

“Wait,” Grace whispered back. “The ‘coming home sex’ will be even better!”

“Break it up, you two, I want a turn,” Kevin said, pushing past Tyler. He bent down and gave Grace a big hug. “How are ya, gorgeous?”

“Just fine. Its so good to see you. I miss you and Tina so much.”

“Well, maybe one day you and your husband will have enough of this funny talking country and move to LA.”

Grace made a face at him before locking eyes with her son. The three young men behind him told her that he probably wouldn’t appreciate his mum showering him with affection. Instead, she gave him a small peck.

“Well, how was your stay in London?”

Mark’s dazzling smile almost gave away his news. “It was….eventful,” Mark mused. “Mum, this is Rob, Paul and Troy of Fusion.”

“Nice to meet you lads,” Grace said. “I hope you’re hungry.”

All three lads nodded furiously. “Mrs. Savage, thank you so much for having us here,” Rob said. “It’s a nice little end before we head back to LA tomorrow.”

“You’re very welcome. Now, make yourselves comfortable. Help yourselves to something to drink. Everything’s set up in the dining room. We’re just waiting for Mark’s aunt, uncle and cousin to arrive.”

Mark took his mum’s arm. “Mum, how’d Trev make out?”

“You’ll find out when he gets here.”

Grace walked away as Mark led the guys into the dining room to get something to drink at the bar area. There, he found both his grandfathers with shotglasses in their hands, a bottle of Jack Daniels in Joe’s hand.

“Aye!” Mark called out, catching them. “What are you two doing?”

Joe looked up and smirked at his grandson. “Playing with myself,” Joe mused, holding up the shotglass. “What does it look like? And….you say anything to your grandmother, I’ll smack ya.”

Behind Mark, the other three guys snickered at the feisty old man. Mark turned around, then back.

“Guys, the one with the mouth is my grandpa Joe. The other one, not saying a word, as usual, is my grandpa Sav.”

“Yeah, he saves all his hot air for when no ones around,” Joe fumed.

“Shut up, Joe,” Sav said as he walked over to Mark. “Welcome back lad. And, nice to meet you young chaps. You must be the members of Fusion, correct?”

The guys smiled over this old man’s knowledge of current rock music. “That’s correct. I’m Rob Silver….I’m the lead guitarist. This here is Paul Visser, he’s our other guitarist and is also lead vocals.”

Joe raised his shotglass to Paul. “Here’s to lead vocalists!”

Sav rolled his eyes as Rob went on. “And this is Troy Weston, our bassist.”

Sav grinned wide. “Ah, man after my own heart. I played bass too. Washburn….Hammer?”

Troy grinned. “Both! Nothing but. So…Mark said that both of you were in a rock band a long time ago.”

Joe groaned as he dropped more ice into his shotglass, followed by more Jack Daniels. “Long time ago! Don’t make me sound old!”

“When’s the last time you looked in a mirror, Joe?,” Sav asked.

“Yeah, fuck you too Savage,” Joe murmured as he drained the contents of his shotglass.

The guys were snickering over these two, cool old men as Sav looked puzzled. “So……..don’t you lads have a drummer?”

Mark shoved his hands in his pockets. “Um…..well……..”

Before he could say anything, Abby came running down the stairs in an old t-shirt and shorts. She stopped dead in her tracks as soon as her eyes befell Rob Silver and her mouth dropped. Marked looked her up and down.

“Aye, little wench,” he sassed.

Abby looked down at her attire, then at the gorgeous guy in front of her and took off like a shot back up the stairs. Joe picked up on his grandaughters actions immediately.

“Hmm, I think Abby may be smitten with you, lad,” Joe giggled at Rob. “Be careful there, Rob. Even though she’s thirteen…….well, almost fourteen, she takes after me.”

“And that’s enough to scare anyone,” Sav replied.

Joe gave him a dirty look. “Didn’t I tell you to fuck off?”

Mark rolled his eyes to the rest of the guys. “I think you can figure out what my grandpa Joe’s favorite word is.”

Joe answered that by toasting his shotglass full of Jack. “Fuckin’,A !”

“Unbelievable,” Sav murmured.

“So, what’s your favorite word, Sav?” Paul asked him.

Sav turned narrowed eyes to Joe. “Where do I start?”

Joe answered Sav by giving him the finger. He then grabbed the bottle of Jack. “C’mon lads, you too Mark……lets do a shot! Sav, you gonna have some, or are you gonna drink schnaaps like a fairy?”

Sav turned to the guys in the band. “If you all stay together for as long as we have, this is what you’ll turn into.”

Mark went over and took Joe’s shotglass out of his hand. “I think you’ve had enough, grandpa. I know you’re vulgar all the time, but you’re worse when you’re drunk.”

Joe snatched the glass back. “Touch this glass again, lad, and I’ll make sure you never use your pecker again!”

Mark gave in as Joe poured everyone a shot. As the men drank, Abby had made her way back downstairs, this time clad in a pair of low rise jeans and a belly baring tank top that displayed the signs of her newly budding breasts. With all the maturity she could muster, she gave Rob a coy little stare before turning the corner and heading into the kitchen.

Mark caught a glimpse of his baby sister before she disappeared and was floored. “What the….?”

“Oh yeah,” Joe slurred a bit. “Forgot to tell you. Her boobs popped out while you were gone!”

Chapter 113

As soon as Scott, Chelsea and Trevor arrived, everybody began to dig in to eat. When everyone made a bee line for the dining room, Mark took Trevor aside in the living room.

“Well? Tell me?” Mark prodded.

“You mean no one told you?” Trevor said, astonished. “I thought for sure your mum would’ve called you and your dad while you were in London.”

“She obviously didn’t,” Mark replied. “She probably wanted you to tell us yourself. So…..?”

Trevor grinned modestly. “I head back next week. I made the team as Patrick Tierney’s backup.”

Mark arched himself backwards a bit and let out a soft whoop. “Bloody hell, Trev! I can’t believe it! No, wait…..I do believe it. This is absolutely incredible!”

Trevor knew that Mark would be happy for him, but his ultra-enthusiasm caused him to wonder. “Thanks, Mark. It means a lot that you’re happy for me. You know, when you think about it, we’ve been pretty much inseparable since we were five. Part of me still can’t believe that I’m going to be a member of Manchester United, and another part of me feels sad for leaving everyone behind – you…Emily.”

Mark’s green eyes twinkled. “Well, cous…..I may be in the same boat you are. I may not be in Sheffield much longer.”

Trevor’s eyebrows went up. “Oh, yeah? Did you decide on something while you were gone? Are you going away to school or something?”

Mark rolled his eyes a bit. “More like…….’or something’.”

Trevor gave him a shot in the arm. “No fair! Tell me!”

From the dining room, Tyler and Scott’s ears went up when they heard Trevor yell ‘get the fuck out of here!’ from the other room. Tyler chuckled while Scott shook his head.

“What could that be all about?” Scott asked his brother.

“You’ll see,” Tyler answered, trying to hide his mirth. “So……..how’d it go in Manchester? The absence of a phone call in London led me to believe that you wanted to tell me in person.”

Scott smiled proudly. “Trevor will be wearing red and black when the season starts. As the back up goalie, or course, but hey…….even being a backup for Manchester is a big deal.”

Tyler clapped Scott on the back. “I knew he’d make it. I just knew it. Fame continues to trickle out of this family.”

Scott laughed. “Yeah. Now all we have to do is wait for Mark to become a rock star.”

Tyler couldn’t help himself. “Won’t be long of a wait,” he whispered before walking away from a startled Scott.

Rob went over to a side table to grab a napkin and turned to find Abby in front of him. He smiled down at the pretty thirteen year old who’s body was beginning to sweetly fill out. Remembering her age, he quickly sobered up.

“Hello there……”

“My name is Abigail,” Abby said with impressionable maturity. “However, everyone calls me Abby. Silly, I know.”

Rob smirked to himself. “Not at all. I’m Rob.”

“Yes, I know. I have your band’s CD. I’ve seen your video’s on Kerrang. I’m a big fan. Most girls my age are into those horrid boy bands. I guess my father’s influence got me liking hard rock rather than that pansy rock.”

Abby made coy eye contact as she obviously tried to make herself sound more mature than she was. Rob noticed this and played along. However, it didn’t go unnoticed by Mark. He went over to Grace.

“Mum, will you please do something about her?” he said, nodding to Abby. “Crikey, Rob’s 8 years older than her, not to mention that she is seriously underage. And….will you tell her to put something decent on!”

Grace rolled her eyes to her son. “What’s wrong, Mark? Its okay for your girlfriend to dress like that, but not your sister.”

Mark looked at Abby’s new little breasts outlined by her fitted tank, then back to his mother. “Yes! Anyway, she’s making a fool of herself.”

“Mark calm down. I’ll take her aside and tell her to cool it.”

“Thank you.”

Grace got Abby’s attention and crooked her finger at her. Abby began to sigh like a little girl, before stopping herself. She turned to Rob. “Excuse me, will you please?”

“Absolutely.”

Mark came over to him then. “I apologize for my little sister. I guess she turned into a flirt while I was gone.”

“No problem, dude. So…….lets make the announcement.”

“Now?”

“Sure!”

Chapter 114

Mark looked over to his father and nodded. Tyler got the hint and got everyone’s attention.

“Uh, excuse me everyone,” he announced. “I believe that there’s some good news that needs to be shared – all around. First off, I’d like to formally congratulate my nephew Trevor – the new backup goalie for Manchester United.”

Everyone in the room clapped and whistled before Tyler continued. “And now…..the real reason for our company today.”

Tyler motioned to Mark, who turned to Rob for him to start off. Rob cleared his throat.

“Well, first off, my bandmates Paul and Troy want to first thank Tyler and Kevin for coming to our rescue and helping us finish recording our second album. Um…I don’t know if any of you know what happened, but our original producer walked out on us. You see, for a while, we’ve been having internal difficulties with my brother, Zak, who was also our drummer. He was the reason our first producer walked. To make a long story short, some things came to a head and the three of us decided to let Zak go. Being his brother, it was one of the hardest things I had to do, but I’m not going to forsake the band either. However, I’m happy to report that we found someone to fill in so we can get the album finished. In fact, we were so pleased with him, that we’ve asked him to be our new drummer.”

Rob finished speaking and didn’t say another word, wanting to see if anyone would catch on. Mark just folded his arms and smirked. Joe saw and caught on immediately.

“Holy fucking shit!” Joe sputtered out. “Mark? You’re their new drummer?”

“Congratulations, grandpa,” Mark said. “You get the prize for figuring it out the quickest.”

Sav shook his head back and forth in amazement as a smile lit up his face. “Oh my God! This is absolutely brilliant!”

Grace gasped as she turned to her husband, who was proudly nodding. The rock star tradition would continue on in the Savage/Elliott family.

Scott and Chelsea couldn’t believe it as Scott went over to Tyler. “You and your clever hints! This is absolutely awesome! Mark, congratulations! This is such incredible news.”

Abby went over to her brother. “Mark? You mean you……you’re a member of Fusion now?”

“That’s right…..I’m their drummer. What’ya think?”

Abby turned starry eyes to Rob for she could only think about how she would be connected to him through her brother. “That’s awesome Mark. Bloody awesome. Congratulations.”

Mark noticed his sister’s growing maturity to her manner and smiled over it.

“Sav, who’s better than us?” Joe asked. “A grandson who’s going to play pro soccer, another who’s now in a rock band and you have a granddaughter who’s a supermodel.”

Troy and Paul’s face lit up. “Supermodel?”

“My oldest daughter, Stephanie,” Scott said. “Forget it, she’s married and pregnant.”

Troy and Paul frowned.

Abby frowned a bit, feeling a bit left out. “Don’t forget me, grandpa,” she said to Joe, before turning to Rob. “I’m going to be an actress.”

Grace was quick not to leave her daughter. “Yes Abby just got the lead in her school’s production of Romeo and Juliet.”

“And who’s that lad who’s going to play Romeo again?” Joe teased her with wiggling eyebrows.

Abby looked appalled. “Grandpa! His name is Thomas. He’s a nice enough lad, but much too immature.”

Joe and Grace shared a snicker over Abby’s change of tune. Just earlier, she was swooning over the thought of kissing this ‘Tommy’ as she referred to him earlier.

After everyone was stuffed, the men retreated down to the family room while the women cleaned up. Mark showed the guys his ‘sanctuary’, marveling over the setup and his magnificent drum kit.

“Wow, this is nice,” Troy said, running his hand over the Pearl kit.

“This is a boss setup you got down here, Mark,” Paul said. “How many songs do you have programmed in that machine?”

“Too many to count,” Mark replied. “But, I do have about 90% of your debut album in there. Hopefully, that’ll cut rehearsal time in half.”

Rob looked around. “Ever bring any girls down here?”

“Oh yeah,” Mark drawled out. “However, just my steady girl, Tara really. Man, I can’t wait to see her.”

“Someone’s getting some action soon,” Troy jested.

“What about you guys?” Mark asked. “Any steady girlfriends, or just playing the field?”

“Rob and I are currently unattached,” Troy said. “Paul’s the only one in a relationship.”

“How long it’ll last, I don’t know,” Paul was quick to add. “Its hard when you’re away. Unfortunately, Mark, you’re gonna find that out soon.”

Mark shrugged. “Yeah, I know. But, Tara’s starting design school in London in the fall anyway, so she’d be away. Plus, I know she’ll support me. I guess we’re gonna have to take it one day at a time.

Chapter 115

Later that night……

“God Tara,” Mark panted as his hands found her bare breasts. “I missed you so fucking much!”

Tara, feeling much the same, quickly unfastened his jeans and pulled them down.

Being in the cargo portion of his Jeep was a bit cramped, but it was their only seclusion. As soon as the rest of the band went back to their hotel and their company left, Mark left like a shot to go pick up Tara and reunite.

“Mmm, Mark,” she purred as she grasped him. “I couldn’t stop thinking about this.”

“Well then I hope you can’t wait, cause I sure can’t,” he said as he hovered above her while sliding a condom on. As soon as it was on, Tara pulled him back down and wrapped her legs around him as he buried himself inside of her.

“God damn!” Mark choked out. “Ah, you feel so good! I’m…….damn, I’m not gonna last!”

Tara grinned as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him down to kiss him. She missed him so much that she wouldn’t last either.

“I…..Mark…..I…..God, yes!”

Mark answered with an anguished groan which signaled his quick climax before he gently laid on top of her.

“God, I’m sorry Tar,” he said while catching his breath. “I just couldn’t help it. Three weeks away from you is like three years.”

“Mmm, well you’ve got the rest of the summer to make it up to me before I leave for school,” she replied.

Mark’s heart sunk a bit as he hadn’t told Tara the good news. He’d only have a week with her before he headed out to LA to join the rest of Fusion. There was so much to do with management and making a press release regarding the change in the lineup as well as getting in enough rehearsal to make sure that the four of them click as a unit.

Mark rolled off her, sat up and rolled the condom off. Wrapping it up and tossing it outside, he pulled his jeans up as Tara sat up and fastened her bra and closed her top. She sensed something was wrong.

“Mark…..you okay?”

“I’m fine. As a matter of fact, everything is absolutely perfect.”

Tara cocked her head to one side. “You’re not very convincing. You haven’t even begun to tell me about the recording in London.”

He turned to her and held her arms gently. “Tara, I’ve got fantastic news. It looks like I’m gonna have a music career after all.”

Tara’s mouth dropped and her eyes widened. “What? What do you mean? What happened?”

Mark relayed every single event that happened in London that led up to the remaining members of Fusion offering him the drummer’s position. Tara covered her mouth with her hands in her joy.

“Mark! Oh my God! You’re serious? This is incredible! I knew it! Baby, I knew it! You were born to play the drums.”

“Yeah, I guess I was, since I’ve been playing almost since then,” he said with a grin. “But Tara, you know what this means? The album is finished. Its due to be released in less than two months and a tour will start after that. I’ll be leaving for the States in a week for rehearsal and miscellaneous stuff. I….I don’t know if I’ll be back before you leave for school. I……”

Tara hushed him with her finger. “Mark, I know. Its gonna be hard and I’m gonna miss you terribly. You know, we’re not in school anymore. Our real lives start now and, well, this is it. But, this is the chance of a lifetime. You do not pass up on this for anything. And, you make it work.”

“What about us?”

Tara bit her lip as her eyes glazed with tears. “There’s the telephone. That is…I mean……unless you…..you want to breakup before you….”

“No! No, I don’t want to do that. Tara, I love you. You’ve been a big support to me. This is the chance of a lifetime and I want you to be a part of it, even though we’ll be on opposite sides of the ocean.”

“Mark, lets not worry about what may happen and lets take it one day at a time, okay? I’m……I’m so proud of you. I knew something would come to you. You know, in a way, knowing that you’re going to be a drummer in a rock band kinda makes me feel a bit closer to my brother. After seeing pictures of him and watching videos of live performances, you…..you remind me of him. Mark, I love you too. And..I guess….that’s all that matters, right?”

“Right.”

Mark was comforted by her words and confident of his support. As long as they loved and supported each other, they could to make their long distance relationship work.

However, Mark would soon find out that it was easier said than done.

Chapter 116

Trevor flopped on his bed after getting undressed and clicked the television on. However, his mind was on his impending departure next week.

Both his and Mark’s lives changed dramatically, practically overnight. Even though he’d been home from Manchester for a few days and had reunited with Emily, his heart still ached to leave her. He knew that Mark would have the same dilemma tonight when he told Tara of his good fortune.

He muted his television and called Emily.

“’Ello?”

“Aye luv. What’cha doing?”

Emily grinned on the other end as she made splashing sounds in the water. “Guess?”

Trevor’s eyes widened. “Are you in the bathtub?”

“Mmm, hmm,” she said. “Naked and wet.”

“Blimey, Em…..don’t do that,” Trevor said, suddenly getting horny.

“Well, my parents are home so its not like I’m alone too.”

“Yeah, I guess Tara’s with Mark right now.”

“Probably bonking, I suppose,” Emily giggled.

“Hey, we had our time when I came back from Manchester, now its his turn,” Trevor chuckled.

“Doesn’t mean that I still don’t want it,” Emily drawled out.

Trevor shifted his newly sprung erection. “God, Em…..stop!”

“Aw, c’mon Trev,” she teased. “Lets practice some phone sex. May as well, since we’re gonna be apart.”

Trevor instantly felt sadness sink in. “Em, its killing me to leave you. Its so bittersweet, you know. I made the team, but I have to leave everyone, you especially.”

“I know. The summer is going to suck,” Emily said. “I guess once school starts, I’ll have something to keep my mind off missing you.”

“You’ll miss me?”

“Of course, you rotter! But…..Trevor?”

“Yeah?”

“Um….you know….Manchester has….well….it has a lot of women who follow the team around. I guess you can call them ‘soccer groupies’.”

“That’s exactly what they’re called,” Trevor replied. “But Em….I’m a bloody backup. Even if I were available, who’d be swooning over an 18 year old second string goalie?”

A now former lap dancer, that’s who!

Trevor answered his own question in his mind with a gulp. He had tried to put that drunken dalliance out of his mind. He loved Emily. Even though he was young and his life was about to start, he knew his own heart and it couldn’t afford to lose her. He would do whatever he could to try to make their relationship work.

As with his cousin Mark, Trevor, too, would find out that it would be easier said than done.

Chapter 117

Two Months Later

July 5^th

Grace opened her eyes on a quiet Saturday morning and glanced at the clock. It was only seven am. She slipped out of bed, careful not to wake her husband, smiling wickedly as she stared at his sleeping form.

She crept into the masterbath, and stripped pajamas off. She then brushed her teeth, tousled her hair then went to crawl back into bed naked. As she did, Tyler stirred and turned on his back.

“Mmm, what are you doing up so early?” Tyler growled in a raspy voice.

Grace looked down her husband’s body until she saw the morning evidence poking through the comforter. She carefully pulled the covers down as she watched his eyes open.

“What are you doing?”

Grace met his eyes as her hand encircled him. “Happy birthday, hot stuff,” she said before her head dipped below.

******************************

Scott was sleeping peacefully until tiny little sobs caused his eyes to flutter open. Next to him, Chelsea’s body shook a bit as she tried to stifle her crying.

“Chels? Chels, whats the matter?”

Chelsea turned over to face her husband. “Oh Scott, I didn’t mean to wake you. I’m sorry. I guess….I don’t know, just emotional, I suppose. It just occurred to me that you and I are not even 43 years old and we’re already ‘empty nesters’.”

“And, we’re going to be grandparents any moment,” Scott added.

That seemed to open the floodgates for Chelsea. “Oh my God! Scott, I mean, I’m so delighted that our daughter’s having a baby, but……I’m too young to be a grandmother!”

Scott let his head fall back and shook it back and forth. “Luv, its not that big of a deal. Remember, you weren’t even 17 when you had Stephanie. I’ll tell you this, you’ll be the sexiest grandmother in Sheffield.”

Chelsea smiled through her tears. She hardly felt her age, let alone a grandmother! She leaned her head onto Scott’s chest. “And you’ll be one hot grandpapa,” she replied.

She turned her head to nuzzle his bare chest, then began to kiss it. “Oooooh, yeah….hot grandpa indeed!”

“Somehow, Chels……the word ‘hot’ and ‘grandpa’ just don’t go together, but……don’t stop what you’re doing.”

As Chelsea began to playfully kiss and bite him, the phone rang. Both looked incredulous.

“I don’t bloody believe it,” Scott huffed as he answered. “’ello?”

Scott immediately held the receiver away from his ear as a barrage of Italian expletives came pouring through.

“What the? Frank? Frank, is that you?”

Chelsea sat up like a shot. “Is it Stephanie?”

“Ah, dad,” came Frank’s broken English. “I’m a so sorry. This has been a crazy night. I’ve got my entire family here at the hospital and I can’t here a thing.”

“Hospital? Frank, did…….”

“Yes, papa,” Frank sang out. “A little bambina. Ma bella, she is! Just like my Steffi. She did so wonderful. You and mama must fly here to see her.”

“Absolutely Frank. We’ll get the first flight out.” Scott turned to Chelsea. “We’ve got a granddaughter. Born on my brother’s birthday, too!”

Chelsea squealed and jumped out of bed. “Lets call them! And then call the airlines. We’ve got to go see them right away. Oh God, I’ve got to make a list and pack!”

Chelsea jumped out of bed and began pulling clothes out of her dresser as Scott dialed his brother.

******************************

“Mmmmmmm, oh yeah Grace. Yeah! Take it deep. That’s right. Faster! Yeah, suck it harder. Yeah, what a sweet mouth you’ve got. Faster Grace….faster…..faster! I………ahhhhh!”

Rrrrrrriiiiinnnngg.

“What the……..?” Tyler panted as the phone rang. He completely ignored it until his wife sucked the last of his orgasm out of him. Grace looked up and wiped her mouth.

“You better get that. It could be Mark.”

Tyler answered the phone in a huff. “Yeah?”

“Which did I disturb, your beauty sleep or a birthday shag?”

“Neither, but I was getting a birthday present from my wife.”

Grace was appalled. “Tyler!”

“Its my brother.”

“Oh God, that’s even worse!” she groaned, disappearing into the bathroom.

“Are you calling me this early to wish me a happy birthday?”

“No, but you now share your birthday with your great-niece!”

Tyler let out a yell. “Stephanie had a baby girl?”

“Yep! We’re heading to Italy. Wanna come with us? I’m thinking of taking mom and dad since its their great-grandchild. Hell, lets take Joe and Abby too. And your Abby, of course.”

“Sounds great! Kevin and I don’t have anything going for another 10 days. I think we can swing it.”

“Great. I’ll make the reservations and call you back.”

Tyler hung up the phone just as Grace came out of the bathroom.

“Get dressed, luv. We’re going to Italy!”

Chapter 118

Los Angeles, CA

Being in a rock band was no piece of cake!

Mark did more running around in the last month and a half than he probably did in the last year and a half. First and foremost, there were meetings with Fusion’s management to discuss media matters for informing the fans about Mark replacing Zak Silver as Fusion’s drummer.

A plan of attack was mapped out to coincide with the album’s release as a possible distraction, even though announcements of Fusion’s new drummer had already been made on MTV, VH-1 and Kerrang. Since drummers aren’t the most focal member of the group, management didn’t see this as a detriment to the band’s popularity, even though Zak was one of the founders.

However, Rob was having his own personal problems. Once Zak left London, he headed home to LA to his parents house and tore into them Rob kicking him out of the band. After one very heated and obscene call with his brother, Rob called his parents and, with a heavy heart, told them he was sorry, but he had to do what was best for the band. Zak’s attitude and behavior was destroying them and pulling them apart and Mark was a breath of fresh air – not to mention and incredible drummer.

As crazy as it was, Mark was thoroughly enjoying himself. This was the first time that he was far away from home by himself and the feeling of independence and having a career had him charged up. He finally found out where he fit and he felt like he had it all.

Everything, except Tara.

On the other side of the Atlantic, she was getting ready to head to London to design school. After a tearful and passionate goodbye almost two months ago, they burned up the phone lines as much as their financial situations allowed. Even though Tara was supportive of his fledgling career, Mark was now beginning the understand the price he would have to pay for it. And this was only the beginning. Once the album was released and the tour began, it was only going to get crazier. He knew he wouldn’t see home nor Tara for quite some time.

The band was getting ready for a pre-album release photo session, a new and crazy experience for Mark. The hair and makeup lady took one look at the 18 year old green eyed drummer and knew that she didn’t have to do much to bring out his natural sex appeal. All she did was give Mark more of a mature, edgy haircut and put some temporary blonde streaks in it to offset his light brown hair. It made his seductive eyes and youthful chistled features stand out even more. Wardrobe dressed Mark in black jeans and a green and black army fatigue t-shirt – simple, acceptable attire for today’s young rock bands.

The photographer took standard shots of them indoors, then took them outdoors to a nearby railroad tracks to take some shots. What the guys didn’t know was that a group of fans, who found out about their photo shoot, were waiting for them to finish.

As the band walked back to a waiting limo, they noticed about 20 fans, mostly young females, waiting behind a fenced in area. Troy was the first to comment.

“Ohhhhhh, yeahhhhh,” he wickedly drawled.

Rob grinned as well and looked back at their manager who accompanied them. “We’re going over,” he stated, before grabbing Mark’s arm. “C’mon, dude. This is where the real fun begins! And…don’t feel guilty because you have a girlfriend. Paul does too, and she bust his balls constantly, but this is part of the business. Get used to it, and enjoy it!”

Mark raked his fingers through his newly coifed hair as he got closer to the fence. What he saw made his mouth practically salivate. Women. Young women between the ages of 18-25 dressed in various manners that left little to the imagination.

Their manager unlocked the gate from the inside and the women, and a few guys, stumbled through – thrusting pens, paper and CD’s at them. Even though Mark was officially part of the band, he still felt like he was overstepping his bounds by signing autographs. No one really knew who he was yet. That is….until one very pretty nineteen year old tapped him on the arm with her pen.

“You must be the new drummer,” she said with flirting eyes and very full lips. “Mark Savage, right?”

Mark remembered what Rob said and, knowing that image and sex appeal plays a big part in a band’s success and album sales – especially to the female fans, Mark flashed her a brilliant smile, displaying a small dimple on his right cheek.

“That’s right, luv,” Mark purred in his best seductive tone.

The girl’s mouth dropped a bit and her eyes lit up when she heard Mark speak. “Oooh, I…I didn’t know you were British. I just love that accent.”

The girl absentmindedly handed Mark a Sharpie Marker and turned around. Right above her very low rise jeans was an intriguing tattoo. Bending over in a provocative pose, she looked at him over her shoulder. “Sign over my tattoo?”

Mark had to tear his eyes away from her tight little backside before he put his left on on her left hip to steady himself before signing his name over her tattoo. She straightened up when he was done as he handed her the marker back.

“You’ll be happy to know that you’re my first – autograph, that is,” Mark said.

The girl ran her eyes over his face and t-shirt clad chest. “Well, I’m honored to have popped your autograph cherry,” she whispered. “However, I’d love the honor to do something else to you.”

Mark’s young body responded to her offer, but he did his best to rein himself in –remembering who and where he was. “Well, I appreciate the offer, luv, but I’m afraid I’ll have to decline.”

The girl frowned as Mark reached over her to grab another marker to sign a girl’s torso. Before all was said and done, Mark had the pleasure of signing about 6 different female body parts. The other guys wasted no time in commenting as the walked back to the car.

“Now that was certainly a welcome,” Troy said to Mark, putting his arm around him.

“Yeah, autographing nothing but tits and ass is pretty stressful,” Rob joked.

“It was the accent, man,” Paul chimed in. “Girls love the accent, I guess.”

Mark shrugged. “I guess.”

They all got in the car and Rob leaned into Mark. “That was nothing, dude. Wait till the tour starts. Like I said earlier, get used to it…..and enjoy it!”

Mark was already enjoying it. Too much.

Chapter 119

Two Months Later

October

Manchester

Trevor stood on the sidelines, decked out in his pristine black and red uniform as the team took on Leeds. It was only the third game of the season and already Trevor was getting antsy. He was not used to not playing. Even the backups in highschool got to play, but this wasn’t high school. Trevor was the new guy – the rookie, and he quickly learned to keep his eyes and ears open and his mouth shut. Although it was a honor beyond his wildest dreams to be a member of Manchester, standing on the sidelines every single game either waiting for Patrick Tierney to get hurt or have a bad game was a test of his patience.

He scanned the stands and spotted his parents who took the tram to just about every game. As much as Trevor felt good about the show of support, he felt as if his parents were wasting their time by watching their son stand on the sidelines. It was also the reason why he was glad that Emily hadn’t gotten a break from school to come see him play yet. Their relationship was hanging on by phone and it was extremely difficult with him traveling all over with the team and her at school in London. But, as they agreed, they took it day by day.

By halftime, Manchester had blown a 3-0 lead by allowing Leeds three unanswered goals to tie it up. Coach Walter Ridgeford was a ver proper looking English gentleman who always displayed a calmness in public. However, when he got the team alone at halftime, his proper exterior evaporated.

“What in bloody, fucking hell was that?” Walter screamed at his team. “We’re ahead 3-0, and you let them tie it up in one quarter? That was the shoddiest, sloppiest defense I’ve ever seen from you and Patrick….I better not see one more goal get by you in the second half……you got me?”

Patrick’s head was bowed as he took a verbal thrashing he deserved. “Aye, coach. I understand.”

Trevor stood in the backround as he studied his teammates as the coach tore into them. This was his watch and listen time. He learned so much from moments like these. By not being part of the action, it allowed him the leisure to pick up the ways to act and the mistakes to avoid. He knew it would be valuable to him someday.

The game resumed and, halfway through the third quarter, Leeds scored another goal that put them up 4-3. Patrick was one on one with the Leeds player, which should’ve been an easy save, but the Leeds player got the ball past him and into the net anyway.

On the sidelines, Walter Ridgeford’s face contorted as his nostrils flared like a bull sharing down a red flag. He promptly called a time out. All the players came off the field. When Patrick trotted over, he kept his head bowed as not to look at the coach’s face. But he couldn’t avoid hearing his voice.

“Patrick?”

“Aye, coach?”

“Sit down!”

Patrick looked up at Walter and briefly met his eyes before Walter turned around and called out.

“Trevor! You’re in!”

Trevor felt every nerve come to life in his body as his heart slammed in his chest. He couldn’t believe it. He was finally going to get to play.

He had never been more scared in his life.

Not allowing himself to show his fear, he got up with confidence as Patrick gave him a long stare before sitting down. Trevor went over to the coach and stood before him. Walter looked at him.

“Well, don’t look at me, lad. You’re the goalie. You know what you have to do. Get in there and do it!”

When the time out ended, Trevor trotted on the field to stand in front of the goal as his name was announced to replace Patrick Tierney. In the stands, Chelsea gripped Scott’s arm.

“Scott! They put Trevor in!”

“I’m not surprised,” Scott said proudly. “Tierney’s been letting them get by him all afternoon.”

Scott silently mumbled to himself. “C’mon, lad…..I know you can do it!”

For the rest of the third quarter, Manchester’s offense kept the ball in Leed’s territory until they managed a goal to tie it up at 4-4. However, the 4^th quarter put Trevor to the test. The roar of the crowd and the significance of his surroundings made it hard for Trevor to pretend that he was on the high school field. Now he had to show why he was asked to tryout for Manchester.

Throughout the 4^th quarter, Leed’s kept the ball in Manchester territory and made it to the goal line several times. Trevor always got to the ball first and threw it out into the open. Those were easy, but it allowed him the time he needed to build his confidence and study the defense from where he was standing. He noticed two Leed’s players that had a knack for connecting with one another on goals. Trevor kept his eye on both of them whenever they approached the goal line.

Several long attempts were made at Trevor, and he easily grabbed each one of them, building his confidence more and allowing him to feed off the cheers from the crowd. The very next time that Leeds had the ball, the two players that Trevor was watching closely volleyed the ball back and forth, obviously setting up a goal. Trevor had seen this razzle dazzle many times in high school and prepared himself. Both Leeds players were only yards away from him as Trevor watched the ball, not knowing which way it was going to come from. He took his stance and bit his lip as the corner of his eye caught a spin move from the player on his right as he kicked the ball in.

Trevor was on the left and, doing a spin move of his own, lunged over to the right side in time and stretched his body out to grab the ball just before it entered the net. It was a move that always caused a gasp from the Westfield stands and it caused a near commotion from the Manchester crowd as they went wild over the incredible save.

In the stands, Chelsea and Scott flew out of their seats in a euphorical state over Trevor’s save. They would do so again when the same two Leeds players tried to outsmart Trevor from the other side, but Trevor saved the ball from hitting the net, preserving the tie and giving Manchester what time they had left to score the winning goal. When Trevor threw the ball out, the Leeds player to tried to score on him jogged past him.

“Next time, pup,” the player taunted Trevor.

Leeds had attempted close to twelve goals in the 4^th quarter, and Trevor prevented every one of them. He felt like he was high and the cheering and applause each time he made a save made him surge. There was less than two minutes in the game and Manchester had the ball in Leeds territory, but failed to score the go ahead goal. A Leeds player intercepted one possible game winner, and took off with the ball towards Trevor.

The Leeds player was joined by two teammates as they knew they had to triple team Trevor in order to try to score. The crowd was on its feet as their cheers were deafening. Trevor’s eyes looked three ways simultaneously, not knowing from which way the ball would come. The Manchester players made their way down to help defend, but the Leeds threesome volleyed the ball between them until they knew Trevor was confused.

When Trevor’s eyes were fixed on the player to his right, the Leeds player in the center kicked the ball to Trevor’s left. Trevor’s eyes caught the ball and he spun around to dart to his left. He practically went airborn and stretched himself out as his fingertips grazed the ball. It was an acrobatic attempt, but it wasn’t enough.

Trevor’s body fell to the ground in the process of trying to make the save just as the ball hit the net, giving Leeds the 5-4 victory.

Chapter 120

The team filed into the locker room, too stunned and depressed to even speak. Trevor waited till the last, possible moment and walked in last, keeping his head held up the best he could as he focused on his locker. Surely, he felt as if everyone hated him right now. He let the opponent’s game winning goal get by him. But, he had to realize that he wasn’t always going to be on top of his game. This wasn’t high school. Even though he was officially a pro player, he was still what that Leeds player called him – a pup.

As he opened his locker, he sat down and pulled his jersey off to prepare to shower. As he did, he felt a hand on his shoulder. He looked up and saw Andrew.

“Don’t let it get you down. That was a hell of a performance you gave.”

Trevor gave him a modest smile before continuing to undress. After he showered, he pulled on jeans and a t-shirt and ran some gel through his wet, dark blonde hair. The silence had long given way to some small talk, that is….until Patrick Tierney opened his mouth.

“Guess you found out today that you’re not in high school anymore,” Patrick taunted. “Life isn’t that perfect in the pros.”

“Aw, bugger off, will ya Patrick,” Michael groaned. “I think the lad knows where he is.”

“Not with you doing the speaking for him, he won’t,” Patrick sneered.

Trevor turned to Patrick with determined hazel eyes. “I don’t need anyone speaking for me, Patrick. And, you’re right. I’m not in high school anymore – I’m well aware of that – which is why I shouldn’t have let that goal get by me.”

Patrick just smugly looked at Trevor, gloating over his admission. Trevor knew there were times to keep his mouth shut, but now he didn’t feel like it.

“Then again,” Trevor continued, “it was still 3 less than what you allowed today.”

Some of the players behind Trevor snickered as Patrick had fire in his eyes. He was a bit larger than Trevor, though not as tall, but that didn’t stop him from pushing Trevor into the lockers. Trevor bounced back and gave him a complimentary shove in return.

Before anything serious broke out, the door to Walter’s door opened and he stuck his head out.

“Patrick? Get in here now. And Trevor, don’t you go anywhere. You’re next.”

“Yes sir,” Trevor replied.

Patrick leaned into Trevor. “Better get used to having your balls chewed off,” he sneered before walking in the coaches office.

Trevor leaned against his locker and rubbed his face before looking at Andrew. “Guess I deserve it.”

Andrew clapped him on the shoulder. “Aw, don’t worry there, laddie. We’re heading on over to the pub. We’ll save you a tall pitcher of lager to drown in!”

“Thanks, I’ll need it,” Trevor sighed, before pulling his cell phone out and calling his father’s.

“Aye dad.”

“Trevor,” Scott replied on the other end. “You on your way out?”

“No, not for a while dad. Maybe you and mum should just head back. The coach wants to see me. I’m sure its about that goal.”

“Keep you head up, Trevor,” Scott replied. “You take it like a man, you learn from it and you move on. Don’t you worry. Mum and I will head back to the tram station. We’ll talk to you later in the week.”

“Thanks dad. Bye.”

Trevor clicked off his phone as the coach’s office door opened. Patrick stormed out, none too happy. He glared at Trevor, then left the locker room. Trevor walked up the the office and knocked on the door.

“I believe I’m next,” Trevor tried to jest.

“Sit down Trevor,” Walter said, not once looking up at him.

Trevor sat. And waited.

Walter continued with making notes as he spoke. “You want to tell me what happened out there?”

Trevor took a deep breath. “I let the other team win,” Trevor admitted. “I shouldn’t have let that goal get by me. I caused us to lose.”

Walter kept his head still as his eyes looked up. “You caused us to lose? I think not, lad.”

Trevor knitted his brows. “Excuse me, sir?”

“You didn’t allow the first four goals. You weren’t responsible for not scoring more. When we win, it’s a team effort, and when we lose….it’s a team fault. Maybe under different circumstances, you wouldn’t have let that goal get past you. But, the fact that Leeds had to triple team you in order to score showed me the respect they had for you, not to mention that you didn’t crack in your first pro appearance with the stress of the game on your shoulders. No, I know that if the circumstances were different, we would’ve won today. Which is why I’m starting you next week.”

Trevor was stunned. “I….I beg your pardon?”

“Don’t beg, lad. You don’t have to,” Walter chided. “I said you’re starting next week. I wasn’t happy with Patrick’s performance today and I don’t want that happening next week. You showed me some moves today that made me grin – and I rarely do that – not to mention that the crowd seemed to come alive whenever you made one of those spectacular saves. I want to see what you can do for an entire game. So, plan on a grueling practice with Stuart next week. That’ll be all.”

Trevor stood up, trying his best not to gush. “Thank you, sir.”

“Don’t thank me……you earned it lad.”

Trevor left Walter’s office, trying to let sink in what he was just told. He wished his parents had hung around so he could share this with them. He made a point to call them later, but now he needed to call someone else first. He punched the number into his cell and let it ring.

“’ello?”

“Aye, luv.”

“Trevor!” Emily gasped out in delight. “Oh Trevor, I saw the game today. Oh, God, I wish I was there to see you play in person. I was so proud of you.”

“Even though we lost?”

“It wasn’t your fault,” Emily said. “Patrick Tierney let 4 goals get past him. He deserved to be benched.”

“Well, it seems he’s gonna be benched a lot longer. Coach is starting me next week.”

“Oh my God!” Emily squealed. “Trevor, that’s…..that’s awesome! Oh, baby I’m so happy for you. Who are you playing?”

“Newcastle,” Trevor replied. “Em, I’d love for you to be there.”

“I’ll be there, Trevor,” she said. “I promise. I can’t wait to see you. I miss you so much.”

“I miss you too, luv. I love you.”

“I love you too. I’ll call you with my arrangements.”

“Great. I’ll get you tickets and a pass. Bye luv.”

“Bye.”

Trevor clicked off the phone and went to meet some of the other players at the pub. He was on a high that he felt like he’d never come down from.

If only he knew how ironic those words were going to be in a few months.

Chapter 121

One Week Later

If Trevor had to choose one day in his life where everything went absolutely perfect, today was the day.

Not only were his parents in attendance for Manchester’s game against Newcastle, Tyler, Grace, Joe and Sav showed up as well. Even Stephanie and Frank were there! Stephanie was a typical new mother about leaving 3 month old Isabella with a nanny for the day at her parents house in Sheffield, but with Paige and Abby remaining behind to spend time with their great-granddaughter/niece, she eased up on her fretting.

But what Trevor was most happy about was having Emily there. He hadn’t seen her in months and couldn’t wait to spend some time with her afterwards. However, what he wanted to do now was to put on a performance today that would make them proud and also show that the coach made the right decision in starting him today.

He didn’t let anyone down.

Even though Newcastle wasn’t a strong team, it was a tremendous boost of confidence to Trevor as not one goal got by him all day. Manchester easily shut out Newcastle 3-0 and the home crowd was easily embracing the young, rookie goalie from Sheffield.

After the game, Trevor was dumbfounded to be duluged by a sea of microphones being shoved in his face from area reporters, wanting to know a little bit more about the 18 year old overnight sensation. As usual, Trevor blushed in the face of praise and kept his answers as honest and humble as possible.

When he was finished, he parted with his teammates and headed out to the front gate to meet his family and….Emily.

Scott was the first to see his son and broke from the circle to meet him halfway. The pride that surged through him was twice as strong as the day he was born. Trevor met his father’s open arms and accepted a hug that made him weak in the knees.

“You have no idea how proud I am of you,” Scott whispered in Trevor’s ear with a cracked voice.

“Thanks, dad. I’m just glad I didn’t screw up today with everyone watching.”

Chelsea gave her son a kiss of congratulations, followed by Tyler and Grace.

“That was an incredible game, lad,” Tyler gushed. “I called Mark over in the States so he could be sure to get it on satellite.”

“How’s he doing Uncle Ty?”

“Good. Tired. Stressed. Typical symptoms of rockstardom! The album gets released the end of this month and the band’s gonna start off solo with some small club dates before they join Fractured Soul in February as their opening act.”

“That’s great. I gotta call him before his head gets too big to remember us!”

“Look who’s talking,” Joe said, interrupting their conversation. “With the way you played today, you’re gonna be just as famous. There’s a lot of ego that runs in the family.”

“Ain’t that the pot calling the kettle black,” Sav interjected, joining them. “If these lads become famous, its because they’ve worked hard for it. Even though Mark was in the right place at the right time, he wouldn’t be Fusion’s new drummer if he wasn’t superb.”

“Well, I’m not gonna be famous after one game,” Trevor said shyly, before reconsidering. “Although….it did feel good to shut out Newcastle.”

Sav proudly hugged his grandson as Trevor looked over his shoulder to see his sister and Frank. “Aye, there’s the new mum!”

Stephanie and Frank came over. As she did, she reached into her purse and proudly pulled out a recent picture of Isabella. “Is she absolutely gorgeous or what?” Stephanie asked.

Trevor took the picture of his new little nice and smiled. “Wow! Frank, mate, you’re gonna have to beat the lads off with a stick when she gets older.”

“Especially if she grows up to look like my Steffi,” Frank said in broken English. “Already her eyes are as blue as Steffi’s and she’s got my dark hair and olive skin. She’s absolutely bella!”

Trevor then eyed his sister up and down. “You didn’t waste any time getting in shape. You’re as thin as you ever were.”

“Yeah, well, as much as I hated it, I nursed Isabella for a while. My frigging boobs were huge.”

“Ah, yes they were!” Frank drawled out in sultry Italian, earning him an elbow from his wife.

“Then of course, after six weeks, I was able to have sex again and Frank was all over me in no time.”

Trevor blushed furiously over his sister’s brazen remark that Joe overheard.

“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, Steph,” Joe said. “You should’ve been my granddaughter!”

“I think we’ve taken up enough of Trevor’s time,” Frank said, before leaning into him. “Trevor, there is someone very special waiting for you.”

Frank turned his head and Trevor looked in his direction. His eyes fell on Emily. Trevor felt elation and lust flow through him at once. All he wanted to do was hold her right this moment.

“Excuse me,” he said, walking in Emily’s direction.

“Okay everyone,” Stephanie said. “I believe this is the part where we all….how do they say in American pig latin?…….am-scray!”

Chapter 122

Emily’s breath caught in her throat at the sight of her handsome, soccer star boyfriend, who seemed to have matured greatly since she last saw him.

Trevor’s eyes swept Emily as he got close enough for his arms to take over. Wrapping them around her waist, he savored the feel of her that he never forgot.

“Oh God Em…..it feels so good to hold you,” he whispered. “I’ve missed you so bloody much.”

Emily inhaled his freshly, showered scent and smiled against the warm of his neck. “I’ve missed you too, baby. We’ve got till tomorrow morning to make up for it.”

Trevor pulled away and stared down at her with a surprised grin. “Yeah? You’re staying in Manchester overnight?”

Emily nodded with a blush. “I’m staying at a nearby hotel. I have to take the tram out tomorrow by 11:00 to make it back to London by a decent hour.”

Trevor leaned down and sweetly kissed her on the lips. “Then lets not waste another minute,” he said with leer, before leaning back down to give her a more promising kiss. Before he could, he heard his name called out from behind.

“Trevor Savage?”

Trevor turned around to see a few people standing behind him and, from the way they were swathed in black and red, he assumed they were Manchester fans.

“That’s me!” he replied, good-naturedly.

A young lad, around 10 yeard old, went up to him with a pen and Manchester program in his hand. “Can I have your autograph Mr. Savage?”

Trevor grinned widely at the lad and took the pen and program. “Absolutely, little mate. But….call me Trevor, okay?”

The lad was wide eyed and nodded as Trevor handed him back the program. He then turned back to eye Emily, secretly asking her to wait a few moments while he signed autographs. Emily winked and walked to the exit gate to wait for him.

Trevor signed autographs for about 15 people, the last one being a very lovely young woman in her early 20’s. He handed her pen and program back as she looked him deep in his eyes.

“Thank you, Trevor,” she said with a seducing voice and inviting eyes.

“You’re welcome, luv,” he replied a little flustered.

The young woman looked past Trevor to Emily waiting for him, then back.

“Is that your girlfriend?”

Trevor gulped. “Yes, it is.”

The young woman made sure that Emily wasn’t looking when she ran a silky fingertip down Trevor’s arm, before thrusting a folded piece of paper in his hand and closing it.

“Call me when you’re ready for a woman,” she purred, before licking her lips and turning to leave.

Trevor’s warm and tingly feeling was quickly washed away by guilt as he looked at the piece of paper in his hand. The name ‘Sharon’ with a phone number was on it.

He rolled his eyes, shoved it in his pocket then went over to Emily. “C’mon luv, lets get something to eat first then go back to my flat.”

An hour later they were just about finishing up a lite fare at a small corner pub. Trevor wanted someplace quiet so he and Emily could talk and catch up, but there were obviously some patrons in there that had watched the game on the telly and noticed Trevor. Only two people asked him for autograph’s and he happily signed them.

As they waited for the check, Trevor excused himself to use the loo. On his way there, he heard a female voice call out his name.

“Trevor? Is…..is that you?”

Trevor turned to see the honey-blonde, aqua-marined eyed former stripper that he had shared a very careless moment with.

“G..G..Ginger?” he stammered. “Aye, what are you doing here?”

“Actually, I’m on my way out,” she said, holding up a bag. “Just getting an order to go. This place may be small, but they have the best banger’s and mash I’ve ever had. I saw the game today……you were mega! I knew you would be.”

Ginger gave him a congratulatory hug, to which Trevor politely hugged her back. “Thanks, luv. It was an awesome feeling.”

Ginger pulled back and stared up at him. “So….you here alone?”

“No, actually my girlfriend came in from London to see me play. We’re gonna spend some quality time together before she leaves tomorrow.”

Ginger looked a bit disappointed, but she understood. “Oh, well….you two enjoy yourselves.”

Ginger winked at him as Trevor entered the loo.

From her table, Emily witnessed the entire exchange between Trevor and Ginger. As Ginger passed Emily’s table on her way out, a few male patrons, who obviously recognized her from The Kitten Klub, acknowledged her before she left..

When the waitress brought the check over, Emily stopped her. “Excuse me, who’s that young woman who just walked out? Is she famous or something?”

The waitress snickered. “You could say that! She was the most infamous stripper at The Kitten Klub. If you notice, it’s the chaps in here that acknowledge her and not the women. Its easy to tell where they frequent their nights. I’ll be back to take your check.”

Just as Emily began to wonder how Trevor knew a stripper, he came back to the table. “Ready, luv?”

Chapter 123

Music played softly from a portable CD player on a makeshift shelf against the wall of Trevor’s sparsely-decorated flat.

In the center of his bed, Emily leaned her cheek against his lean, bare chest, as her breathing began to subside from a very passionate lovemaking session.

In the car ride over to his flat, Emily decided against asking Trevor about hugging that young woman – ‘Ginger’ as some of the men in the pub acknowledged her. For all she knew, she could’ve been a soccer fan who took the liberty to hug him.

Now that Trevor was a member of England’s best soccer team, she had to realize that there were going to be fans who’d recognize him – fans who were mostly going to be female. She needed to support him and she couldn’t do that by starting to get jealous over every little thing.

She lightly trailed her finger down the center line of his abdomen and stopped dangerously close to where the sheet barely covered him.

“Don’t stop on my account,” Trevor said.

She propped her chin on his chest and stared into his gorgeous hazel eyes. Her hand continued to wander down. “Very well then,” she purred, enjoying the look on his face as she grasped him.

Trevor’s mouth parted a bit as he closed his eyes and involuntarily arched his pelvis up, as Emily stroked him to ready hardness.

“Ready so soon?”

Trevor chuckled. “Well, at 18, it doesn’t take much. Which is good, because I want as much of you as I can get until you leave tomorrow.”

Emily squeezed her eyes shut. “Please, no talk about leaving.”

“You’re right,” Trevor growled, pulling her on top of him. “I’d rather be ‘loving’!”

“Trev, do you have another condom? Hopefully I’ll be on the pill the next time I see you.”

“Shit, let me see,” he said, fumbling around inside his nightstand drawer.

Emily giggled. “Maybe you’ve got the trusty spare that all lads keep in their wallets or something!”

“I hope so, because I can’t seem to find another one. Damn!”

Emily leaned over the side of the bed and found his trousers. She shook them upside down to let his wallet fall out and, instead, a piece of paper with a phone number and the name ‘Sharon’ fell out. Emily stilled a moment before picking it up.

“Did you find one, luv?”

Emily sat up and tucked her hair behind her ear as she gazed at the paper. “No, but I found this.”

Trevor turned to see Emily hand him the piece of paper, a hurt look upon her face.

“Who’s Sharon?”

Even though it was perfectly innocent, it didn’t look that way to Emily. “Em, its not what you think. Honestly. She was someone I sighed an autograph for earlier at the stadium – right before she left. She shoved that in my hand. I can’t believe how forward some young women are.”

“Why did you keep it?”

“I didn’t keep it, Em! I didn’t want to toss it on the ground, so I just put it in my pocket. That’s all!”

Emily crumbled the paper and threw it on the floor. “I knew this would happen,” she muttered.

Trevor took her by the shoulders. “Em, you have nothing to worry about. I love you.”

“I know you do, Trev, but crikey…….Manchester is supposed to have the biggest bunch of soccer groupies in the league. This is just the beginning.”

“It doesn’t mean that I have to accept the proposals,” Trevor replied. “Besides, Em, I’m only a rookie. I’ve only started one game. Sure I got asked for a few autographs, but its not like I’ve got people clamoring for me wherever I go.”

“Except for strippers,” Emily cautiously said, taking a chance.

Trevor’s face turned chalk white. “W..w..what?”

Emily noticed a look of guilt on face that didn’t sit well with her. “Strippers, Trevor. Particularly one named Ginger. She hugged you by the loo at the pub.”

Trevor swallowed hard, not knowing how to handle this. “H…how do you know about Ginger?”

“Why are you stuttering, Trevor? Something I should know about?”

“N..n..no, Em. I mean, okay, after my first day of practice, a few of the players took me out to dinner and, well, since I was basically at their mercy, they took me to a strip club. Ginger was one of the dancers there. But she doesn’t work there anymore.”

“How do you know?”

“Because, she came to practice the next day and…….told……me,” Trevor spoke, way too soon.

Emily scooted away from him. “She……she came to practice – just to see you? Hell, Trevor, what went on between you two that night that made you best mates with her?”

“Emily, I…I…please, you…..you gotta believe……”

“It’s a little hard for me to believe a lad who has to stutter through an explanation. I’m not a fool, Trevor, so don’t treat me like one. If something happened, at least do me the courtesy of not lying about it.”

Trevor was screwed! Even though the truth would hurt Emily, and possibly destroy their relationship, he couldn’t lie. She didn’t deserve to be lied to. And, there was no way he could deny it.

“Fine, Em,” Trevor said dejected and defeated. “Something did happen between Ginger and I that night, but……honest to God, I was drunk. I didn’t…..”

Emily bounded off the bed and began to look for her clothes. “Good Lord, Trevor,” she scolded. “Don’t blame your indescretion on alcohol! I…I can’t believe this! But then again, I should’ve expected it. We’ve been apart for months, you’re young, good looking and a member of Manchester. Who am I kidding? There’s no way we can make this relationship work.”

Trevor rolled off the bed and pulled his trousers on, advancing on her. “Emily, please! Don’t do this! It was a mistake. And awful, terrible mistake! I could’ve lied and said nothing happened, but I owned up to it. At least give me that much.”

Emily pulled her jumper over her head and looked at him. “Trevor, first I find a piece of paper with a woman’s name and phone number in your pocket and now I found out that you and a…a…stripper….! How the fuck am I supposed to trust you – especially when we’re going to be apart?”

Trevor shook his head as tears began to form in his eyes. “You just have to Em. Please.”

“Trevor, if you found out that I was with another lad and also had a different lad’s name and phone number in my purse, what would you think of me?”

Trevor couldn’t answer that question. Of course, he’d think her unfaithful. And….he was, with Ginger. He deserved what he was getting. All he could hope for was that, after waiting for Emily to cool down a bit, he’d call her to try to talk to her about it.

“Em, what are you going to do? Where are you going?”

“I’m going back to my hotel and leaving first thing in the morning. I….I can’t stay here with you. I….I need to think.”

“Emily, please forgive me!”

“I’ll let you know if I can,” she said, grabbing her purse. “Goodbye Trevor.”

The sound of the door closing was all Trevor needed to let his tears fall. He sat on the bed and allowed himself to cry. He quite possibly lost the loveliest lass he ever had in his life and it was all his fault.

After a few minutes of heavy sobbing, he went in search of something to ease the ache in his head, since there was probably nothing he could do for his heart.

He opened a bottle of Motrin and poured two tablets into his hand. His head pounded harder, so he changed it to three.

What Trevor wasn’t aware of, was that this was only the beginning. In the coming year, he’ll find himself seeking something much stronger to ease the pain.

Chapter 124

London

2 Weeks Later

Tara bit her lip as she scanned the crowd of people in the audience at the Odeon for Fusion’s pre-album release show. The band decided to start off doing a few European club dates, if only to get Mark familiar to playing for large audiences, before they start their bigger shows in the States where they are more popular. Tonight, they’d be sharing the stage with a few other acts as well.

When she got a call from Mark saying that the band would be playing in London and that he’d send her tickets and a backstage pass, she was so excited that she couldn’t contain herself. This would be the first time that she’d seen him in months, not to mention playing in the band. She had to admit – it was kind of exciting having a rock star for a boyfriend! Generously, Mark had sent her tickets for her and Emily to come to the show, since Emily was attending school in London as well.

Tara didn’t know if anything would cheer Emily up since she returned from Manchester two weeks ago after learning that Trevor had been unfaithful.

As much as Emily’s heart was hurting, especially after shunning Trevor’s attempted calls, she didn’t want to dissuade her cousin.

“Excited?” Emily asked.

“You have no idea, Em,” Tara exclaimed. “I’m just so happy for Mark. You don’t know how many talks we had about him not knowing what he’s going to do for the rest of his life.”

“Yeah, I’m happy for him too,” Emily said, trying to sound encouraging.

“Em,” Tara said, taking her hand. “I won’t elaborate on this, but…..I know what Trevor did was wrong. Very, very wrong. But, I also know that he’s made several attempts to call you and you’ve ditched every one of them. And….on top of that….you’re miserable. At least talk to him, Em?”

“I know…..I will,” Emily replied. “Its……it just shocked me. What started out as what was to be a wonderful night together, turned into a nightmare. I still love him, Tara, its just…….how can I trust him?”

“Because you love him, that’s how!”

“Is that how you’re gonna trust Mark?”

Tara was taken aback. “What…..what do you mean?”

Emily looked around the audience. “Take a look around, Tara. Look at the girls in the audience here. And this is just in London. Fusion is mega popular in the States. Mark and the rest of the band are young and gorgeous. If you think Manchester has notorious soccer groupies, what do you think rock stars have?”

Tara’s countenance changed, which Emily caught on to. “Tara, I’m….I’m sorry. I should’nt have said that. I mean, not that you don’t know that rock stars have groupies who follow them, but you didn’t need to be reminded of it. I….I just don’t want you going through what I just did, that’s all. Hopefully, Mark’ll be smarter than his cousin.”

“Hopefully,” Tara thought to herself as Fusion was announced and took the stage.

The show was absolutely unbelievable and Mark played the drums as if he’d been doing it all his life. Well, actually he has! But, he looked as if he were born performing on a stage in front of people. The crowd gave them a great welcome and, after they did about 5 songs, Mark came from behind to take his bow with the band, but not before Paul formally introduced him as their new drummer.

The crowd cheered as Mark pumped his drumsticks in the air before spontaneously tossing them out into the crowd. A small crowd of girls and a few guys fought for them. Mark’s eyes then scanned down the front and caught Tara’s. She looked so beautiful and couldn’t wait to see her backstage.

Tara saw Mark notice her and her heart stopped. His hair was damp and his skin was slick with sweat, which caused his t-shirt to cling to his lean, hard mid-section. She missed him so much and couldn’t wait to finally hold him.

Emily caught the exchange too and turned to her cousin. “Tar, if you don’t mind, I’m gonna catch a taxi back to my room. You go on ahead and enjoy your time with Mark.”

Tara wouldn’t hear of it. “Are you crazy? Don’t you want to go backstage and meet the band? I mean….maybe one of them can cheer you up!”

Emily offered her a shy smile before shaking her head no. “No, that’s okay. I’ll just be a third wheel. I really just want to go home and go to sleep.”

“Em, please call Trevor. Tonight.”

“I……will, but not tonight. Give me the night to think on what I want to say.”

“Promise?”

“Promise.”

The two cousins hugged before Tara took her backstage pass out of her pocket and hooked it around her neck. She exited the audience section and waited by the side of the stage, as Mark had instructed her on the phone.

What she didn’t count on was about a dozen other girls, with similar backstage passes, looking just as eager to get backstage as wellTara continued to wait until the guests could be called back. While she waited, she overheard a couple of the girls talking.

“I sure hope Paul’s girlfriend isn’t with him tonight,” one of the girls said.

“Like that’s stopped him in the past,” the other replied. “I read on the internet at one of those groupie sites that his girlfriend knows he fucks around, but she just turns a blind eye.”

“I think I would too, if he were my boyfriend,” the first girl said. “Then again, they’re all lookers. And….did you see that new drummer? Was he hot or what?”

Tara felt her ears burn with rage. How she wanted to go up to these girls let them know that Mark was ‘hands off’. But, these weren’t high school girls. She just kept her mouth while she waited for Mark.

After another ten minute wait, the guests were finally let backstage to the hospitality room. Once inside, Tara’s eyes frantically sought out Mark.

Over by the table, stuffing half a sandwich in his face, Troy’s eyes popped as he nudged Paul.

“Oh, are you seeing what I’m seeing?”

Paul turned to look in Troy’s direction – which was at Tara. He whistled low. “Wow, look at those eyes.”

“Forget her eyes, look at her ass!”

“Forget everything about her mates,” Mark interjected. “That’s Tara.”

Mark walked away with a smile of triumph, only to be interrupted by a young girl who sidled up to him. “How’s about a formal welcome to the band, Mark?”

Mark gently discouraged her away. “Sorry, luv. I think my girlfriend has the same thing in mind.”

Mark winked at her and headed over to Tara. The two of them embraced, much to the jovial envy of his bandmates and the jealousy of the rest of the girls in the room.

One of the girls nudged her friend. “I’m following this band to their next gig. If that little drummer boy is alone, I’m gonna make him forget about his girlfriend!”

Chapter 125

Back in Mark’s hotel room, he frantically thrusted months and months of frustration in and out of Tara’s body. She clung to him like a lifeboat as her hands ran down the slickness of his skin then back up to his hair.

After they both achieved satisfaction, Mark lightly laid on top of her as he felt Tara’s lips continue to kiss his face. A grin broke out on his face as he lifted his head to look at her.

“Missed me that much, eh?”

“I could say the same for you,” Tara replied. “And, yes….I did. Too much.”

“Even though my father and grandfather’s warned me that it wasn’t going to be all fun and games, I still wasn’t prepared for how crazy this profession is. I mean, you think that all you’re supposed to do is write songs, record them and play them in concert. I wish! Everytime I just wanted to sit down and relax or even sleep, we we’re being hauled off to some kind of photo session, interview, rehearsal, autograph signing, etc. But, I’m loving every minute of it. I’m doing what I do best.”

“Mark, you were absolutely awesome tonight. You fit in so well. You were born to be in a band. Its in your blood.”

Mark looked at her wickedly and ground his body against hers. “Yeah, well in a few minutes….I want to be in you again!”

They were beginning to kiss when they heard loud giggling and laughter out in the hallway. Mark got out of bed and threw on his boxers before opening the door.

There were about 7 half naked girls, scurrying from one room to the other with various alcoholic beverages in their hands. He then saw Paul come out of his room, dressed in unbuttoned, unzipped jeans, and pull one of the girls back inside with him. Before he closed the door, he caught Mark looking at him and winked his approval.

Mark looked inside one of the other rooms and saw Troy laying on the bed. One girl was giving him a blow job while another hovered her bare breasts over him to suck on. He rubbed his face with his hands, for he only heard stories of scenes such as this. Through another one of the open doors, Rob sat on the couch inside as a gorgeous blonde, wearing nothing but a thong, straddled him and kissed him seductively, their tongues visibly intertwining with each other.

The absolutely hedonistic sight was putting Mark’s almost 19 year old body into overdrive and his boxers did nothing to hide his reaction.

Suddenly, one of the half naked girls in the hallway turned to see Mark standing there outside his room. She shrieked and ran over to him, throwing herself around him.

“Oh my God, you’re Mark,” she panted. “How’s about letting me come inside?”

Mark was so overwhelmed by her boldness, not to mention the feel of her bare flesh pressed against his, that he almost forgot about Tara inside. He took her arms and pulled them down.

“Well luv, I already have someone inside with me.”

The girl peeked inside Mark’s room to see Tara sitting up in bed, holding the sheet up to her neck. The girl grinned then looked back at Mark.

“That’s okay, I don’t mind,” she said. “I’ve done threesome’s before. And besides……” she leaned into him and whispered, “I like girls too. Especially brunettes like that one.”

Mark couldn’t believe what she was suggesting. Moreso, he couldn’t believe that the thought of being in bed with two women, one of them being his girlfriend, turned him on, as well as the thought of this girl and Tara…..

“Mark?”

Tara’s voice calling out to him from behind snapped his thoughts. With every ounce of willpower, he pushed the girl away. “Sorry, luv. Not tonight.”

The girl pouted and moved back. “You guys are playing at Brixton in three nights, right?”

“Right.”

The girl swept Mark’s body up and down slowly. “I’ll be there!” she said before walking away.

Mark went back inside the room and shut the door and locked it. He got back into bed with Tara who looked at him warily.

“What?”

“What did she want, Mark?”

“To join us. Threesome. She even had her eye on you.”

Tara was aghast. “What?”

“Don’t worry, luv, I sent her away. I’m not into anything that freaky!”

No way could Mark admit that it turned him on to the max!

“Mark, does this go on all the time?”

“I really don’t know, luv. This is our first show. Plus, most nights were gonna be sleeping on the tour bus, so I guess the guys like to let off a little steam when they have an actual bed to sleep in.”

“Especially, Paul?” Tara asked. “Doesn’t he have a girlfriend?”

Mark sighed. “Yes, he does. Tara, listen. I’m their drummer, not their nursemaid. They have to answer for their actions, not me. I’m here with you now, aren’t I?”

“Yeah….now,” Tara replied. “Mark, Emily and Trevor already broke up because he cheated on her. Its just…..I mean……how long are you going to be able to resist all this?”

Mark kissed her forehead, not wanting to discuss this now. “Luv, please, lets not talk about this. I’ve been without you for months and have to leave you again tomorrow. Lets just go to sleep in each other’s arms and enjoy it.”

Mark’s arms went around her as he snuggled her against him. It was hard for Tara to block out the noise outside. Instead, she just concentrated on being in Mark’s arms.

And wondered how long before someone else would be in them.

Chapter 126

Two Weeks Later

Tara and Emily took the tram into Sheffield to visit for the weekend. Tara was also excited because Mark had finished his club dates with the band and was going to break for two weeks before he had to fly out to LA to kick off the album’s release.

Emily, on the other hand, would be alone. Even though she had promised her cousin that she would call Trevor to hear him out, she couldn’t. Perhaps if she ran into him she would, but with her at school in London and Trevor playing in Manchester, she didn’t think that was possible.

The girls arrived at Mr. & Mrs. Prescott’s house and had something to eat before planning their afternoon. Tara called Mark’s cell to let him know that she arrived in town. He had taken his parents, grandparents and sister out to lunch and told her that he’d be by later and would take her to dinner.

With a thump in her heart, Tara hung up and regarded a very somber looking Emily.

“Em, I know you never called Trevor. Why?”

Emily shrugged. “I don’t know. I guess I just don’t want to hear the sorry excuses that a man gives for cheating. You know…..’its not what you think’, or ‘I was drunk’, or ‘she means nothing to me’. I’m not an idiot, Tara. I may be crapping out in school, but I’m not an idiot.

Tara’s eyes widened. “What’s this about school?”

“Paralegal just isn’t my thing. Come to think of it, I just don’t see myself as an ‘office’ lass. While you’re out with Mark tonight, I’m going to talk to my parents about switching schools. After spending all those afternoons with………Trevor’s mum at the daycare, I’m really leaning towards child education.”

“Em, that’s wonderful. At least you have a backup. But Em…..please…..you must call Trevor. I’m not sticking up for him or anything, but at least give him a chance to talk.”

“Sorry Tara, but, unless you’re walking in my shoes, you just don’t understand. I mean, you told me about that heinous scene at the hotel with Mark. How can you be so sure that Mark won’t give in the next time you’re not there?”

“I know…I’ve been thinking about that a lot and……hey! Wait a minute!”

Tara went over to the computer, booted up and signed online.

“What are you doing?”

As Tara waited for her homepage to come up she explained. “When I was waiting to get backstage to see Mark at the Odeon, I heard these two girls talking about these groupie websites. I guess these girls post all of their conquests with bandmembers there. Lets see if we can find anything interesting.”

Tara got her search engine and typed in ‘groupie sites’. Her search results came up and one that particularly stuck out was one called GroupieCentral.com

“Hmmm, lets see whats here,” she said, clicking over to that site.

Both girls sat their open-mouthed as they read the very detailed and very dirty encounters that groupies have had with members of various bands. They went down the band list alphabetically until they came to Fusion. Since Mark wasn’t a member of the band when Fusion did their debut tour, nothing was said about him, but oh what was said about the other guys! There were very interesting stories about Paul, the lead singer, despite the well-known fact that he was in a semi-steady relationship with a girl named Bekka for the last two years.

“Oh my God!” Emily exclaimed. “I didn’t know stuff like this went on. I can’t believe these guys! What if their girlfriends read this stuff?”

“Well, how much of it is true and how much is fabricated?” Tara said. “I mean, c’mon, we don’t know if this stuff really happened. But, its certainly a hoot to read.”

“Hey, there’s a message board,” Emily said. “Lets see what’s being said there.”

Tara clicked the icon that took her to the GroupieCentral message board. She scrolled to see if there was anything interesting worth reading. She stopped scrolling when she saw a ‘Fusion’ thread. Most of the questions were about the guys’ status’ and if anyone met them. A sub-thread of the main thread caught her eye. It was titled “The New Drummer!” Tara clicked it on and she and Emily read it together.

Hey, everyone. Well, I’m back from following Fusion to 3 of their 4 appearances over here in England. And, I gotta tell you gals, their new drummer is HOT, HOT, HOT! He isn’t even 19, but you’d never know. He’s absolutely fucking gorgeous up close. Light brown hair, hair, deep green eyes and……I had him! I think I was the first one to ‘offficially’ welcome him, GroupieCentral style! I first saw him at the hotel after the Odeon show. He was in a room by himself with his ::cough:: girlfriend. I offered a threesome, but he turned me down. Told him I was following the band to Brixton. Well, I did and he was sans the girlfriend, fellow groupies! It didn’t take much convincing and, man, can that boy fuck! Guess it’s the age. A friend of mine hooked up with Troy. That guy is a total sex maniac. Paul’s dick has been just about everywhere (except in his own girlfriend LOL) and Rob seems to be the least kinkiest of them all. All I know is that if you ladies get a chance to see them in the States, you’re in for a big surprise. In more ways than one!……………Shayna.

Tara’s hand shook on the mouse the entire time she read it. She read it again, then again, then again……tears beginning to threaten her eyes.

Emily put a hand on her shoulder. “Em, don’t freak. Remember, like you said, it could be fabricated.”

“I don’t think it is,” Tara said with a raw whisper. “This girl was at the hotel in London. She was the one who propositioned Mark to join us in bed.”

“That doesn’t mean that she slept with him,” Emily tried to convince her. “Maybe she wrote that because she’s smarting over Mark turning her down and hoped that you’d read this.”

Tara got out of the site, signed off the internet and turned the computer off. “Well, I did. I’ll ask Mark about it tonight.”

It was now time for Tara to eat her own words.

Chapter 127

Mark went over to the Prescott’s to get Tara around 6:30pm and rang the doorbell. The door opened and he wasn’t met with a girlfriend who hadn’t seen him in weeks, but rather one who regarded him with skeptcism and red-rimmed eyes.

“Tara, what’s wrong? You crying?”

Tara turned her face away and walked into the living room. “Mark, sit down. I think we need to talk.”

Mark followed her and cautiously sat down. “Are we alone?”

“Yes. Emily went to dinner with her parents. So…..how were the rest of the club dates?”

“Great! I’m looking forward to hitting the States, but not being without you.”

Tara took a deep breath. “Yeah, I know. Its been tough being apart. I…..wish I could’ve gone to the Brixton show. As a matter of fact, I almost showed up to surprise you.”

Mark looked a little flustered. “You…..you did? I mean…..why didn’t you? If you called I would’ve…..”

“Well, if I called it wouldn’t have been a surprise now, would it? Your tour manager knows me from last time. He would’ve gotten me to you at the hotel afterwards.”

“Y…y..yeah, I suppose.”

Tara was becoming alarmed by Mark’s uneasiness and was fearing that what she read was true.

“Tara, what did you want to talk about?”

“Oh, just about how your club dates were,” she replied.

Mark got up and sat next to her. “Luv, we can talk about those another time. I haven’t seen you in weeks, so …..since we’re alone….”

Tara pushed him away. “What’s the matter, Brixton didn’t tie you over?”

Mark pulled back. “W..w..what?”

“Who’s Shayna, Mark?”

Mark’s face paled upon hearing that name. “Oh shit,” he murmured.

Tara stood up and backed away. “Oh my God! It……its true?”

Mark stood up and went over to her. “No, wait Tara…..what…..what do you know? Fuck, how did you know?”

“So, you’re not denying it?”

Mark rubbed his face hard with both hands. “Tara, listen….please. Its not what you think. It…it was nothing, I swear.”

Tara laughed mockingly to herself. “You know, not even three hours earlier Emily was telling me how she didn’t want to give Trevor a chance to explain himself for cheating on her because she didn’t want to hear all those pathetic excuses. Now I know what she meant. I knew it, Mark! After that hotel scene in London, I knew it would only be a matter of time before you gave into a groupie. I thought I’d give you the benefit of the doubt, but I was wrong. You Savage cousins are certainly carved from the same tree!”

Tara stalked into the kitchen and Mark followed. “Tara, how do you know all this? You don’t know what happened.”

“Oh yes I do!” she said, turning on him. “It was plastered all over GroupieCentral, a nice little website where sluts like Shayna brag about all the rock stars they fuck. I overheard two girls talking about that site after the Odeon show and thought I’d check it out. Good thing I did else I’d probably wind up like Bekka!”

Mark gulped. “How do you know about her?”

“Oh, that’s all over the site too. However, if she wants to turn a blind eye to Paul shagging his female fans, then that’s her business. I’m not a doormat, Mark!”

Mark rubbed his face again. “I can’t believe this! I can’t believe this is happening. Tara, please, it was a mistake. I’m sorry. I’m so, so, sorry. I just…..”

“…..couldn’t help yourself?” Tara finished for him. “Mark, I have a feeling that this won’t be the last time. You’re a drummer in a popular rock band. All you lads are extremely good looking. The temptation is too great and I……I don’t have the strength to worry if I can trust you again.”

“Tara, please!” Mark pleased.

Tara turned her head and shook it. “No, I can’t. I just can’t. I’m sorry, Mark. I think you better leave. Good luck on your tour.”

“Tara……”

“Goodbye,” she choked out before running up the stairs and slamming the door.

Mark was fighting his own tears that were a result of his own foolishness. He couldn’t blame Tara, but how was he going to go on without knowing she’s there for him? Without her support? Her love and her beauty? How could he ever forgive himself?

Perhaps it wasn’t so wise to be in a relationship now, but he didn’t want their relationship to end this way – on an infidelity. But, Mark had no choice. He made a mistake, was found out, and was paying for it.

Welcome to the wonderful world of rock ‘n roll!

Chapter 128

Mark entered his parents house to find them and both sets of grandparents still there. The last thing he wanted to do was see or talk to anyone. All he wanted to do was get out of Sheffield as fast as he could. But, some things couldn’t be avoided.

“Mark?” Grace called out. “What are you doing back? I thought you were going to see Tara.”

Mark’s eyes swept the dining room table where everyone sat and knew he had to say something that they weren’t going to like. “Listen, I can’t get into it, but I have to leave. I’m going upstairs to pack then taking the tram to Heathrow to catch the first available flight to LA. I just called Rob and he said I can crash at his flat until our promo appearances start next week. I….I just have to go.”

Mark turned to go upstairs, knowing he wouldn’t even get close to the first step.

“Mark,” Tyler called out. “You just can’t give a speech like that then walk out without an explanation. What’s wrong?”

Mark let out a long, slow breath and decided to give very little information. “Look, its like this. Tara and I broke up. Actually, she broke up with me and it was all my fault. Now please, I’m sorry but I just want to get out of here.”

Before Mark hit the second step another voice called out.

“Hold it,” Joe said, slowly getting up from his chair and leaning down to Sav. “Come with me,” he whispered.

He then walked over to Mark and looked his grandson in the eye. “We’d like to talk to you.”

Mark couldn’t refuse his grandfathers and followed them into the living room for privacy. As they all sat down, Joe leaned forward and looked straight at Mark.

“How was she?”

“How was who?” Mark responded.

“Your first groupie. How was she?”

Mark was flabberghasted. “How…..how……?”

Joe gave him a slow, wicked smile. “I did the same thing you did for a living, lad, only longer. I know the signs.”

“So do I,” Sav injected. “You were just with Tara in London two weeks ago, then apart for another two, then your first night back together she breaks up with you for something that was your fault. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure it out.”

“Lucky for you,” Joe said to Sav, trying to lighten the mood.

“Crikey, I didn’t know I was such an open book,” Mark said. “I thought maybe you two were surfing Groupie Central too.”

Joe and Sav each let out raucious laughs. “Groupie Central? Good God, don’t tell me that piece of trash site is still around,” Joe sputtered. “Some woman once wrote how I have an 8 inch dick. Everyone know’s its longer than that!”

Sav coughed. “Not anymore! Aye, you think that’s bad, someone wrote that they saw me go off with about 14 girls at once. Wait……I think that one may be true.”

“Yeah, well, unfortunately what was written about me was true,” Mark said. “It was written by the girl I was with. Tara found the site and read it. That’s how she found out. I am so fucked, grandpas……and not in the good way. What am I gonna do now?”

Sav got up and sat next to Mark. “Lad, listen to me. Tara was your highschool sweetheart and I know the two of you still love each other very much. But, to carry that love and fidelity over into a career as a rock star – especially a 19 year old rock star – is a bit of a tall order.”

“Yeah, but my dad did it,” Mark tried to justify

“No Mark,” Sav said. “Your father broke up with your mother before he went off to university. And…they didn’t get back together until after the band was formed and the debut album came out.”

“Yeah, but……dad said that they broke up again after that and didn’t get back together for good until after the accident.”

“True, they did break up again,” Sav said, remembering that awful afternoon so long ago when Tyler found out about Scott getting Grace pregnant. “But, it had nothing to do with him cheating on her with a groupie. Mark, you’re still young. And…so is Tara. You’ve got a promising career in music and she wants to be a designer. Perhaps a break is what you need.”

“But grandpa, she would never consider getting back together with me. Not after what I did. She’ll never be able to trust me.”

Sav then remembered how hard it was for Tyler to forgive Grace after the incident with Scott, even though they were officially broken up at the time. Still, it hurt him. But, he eventually got past it and realized that his heart belonged with Grace. Unfortunately, it took a tragedy to make him realize this and forgive his brother Scott, but it happened. And..it was possible.”

Joe leaned forward and put his hand on Mark’s knee. “Mark, we can’t make you any promises. All we can do is give you life’s experiences. I know you’re filled with regret and guilt right now and Tara is feeling hurt and betrayed. I know that your cousin and Emily are going through the same thing. But please…..you were granted an amazing opportunity with Fusion. Don’t do anything to jeopardize it. You’re a young, promising band and you can go a long way. Establish yourself first, Mark. Then, who knows. Maybe you and Tara will find your ways back to each other.”

“But whatever you do,” Sav continued, “don’t run away. Don’t leave tonight. Your parents won’t see you for a long time. Its not fair to them.”

Mark sighed, knowing his grandfathers were right. “Sorry, grandpas. You’re right. I guess I’m overracting. But, I’m still not in the mood for crowds tonight. I’m going down to my sanctuary.”

Mark gave each of his grandfathers a hug before leaving. When he was gone, Joe and Sav looked at each other.

“Bigger than 8 inches?” Sav questioned.

“Fourteen women?” Joe sneered back.

“Yeah, right!” they both said to each other.

Chapter 129

Down in his sanctuary, Mark felt the sudden emptiness of the room without his Pearl drumkit, which was packed up with the rest of the band’s equipment. He turned on his CD player and flopped on the couch. Not knowing what to think first, he lowered the CD player and pulled his cell phone out and placed a call.

“Trevor?”

“Aye cous…..long time, no hear from.”

“Mark? Aye, where are you?”

“In Sheffield for a week then out to LA for the album’s release. So…….how’s the new star goalie doing?”

“I’m doing okay. All this sudden fame is a little too much to handle at times. I never expected things to happen to quick, but I got a shot and I took advantage of it.”

“Yeah, pretty much what happened to me too,” Mark replied. “I’ve been catching the games on the telly whever I could. I don’t know when I’ll ever get a chance to come see you play.”

“No problem. I understand. I’ll knock ‘em dead on this side of the pond and you do the same on the other.”

Mark chuckled over Trevor’s comment. “Aye Trev……have you ever heard back from Emily?”

“No, I never did,” Trevor said after a brief silence. “I think its really over between us. I just wish I had a chance to talk to her again. Mark, please ask Tara to ask her to call me.”

Now it was Mark’s turn to be silent a while. “I wish I could cous, but…..Tara and I are through too. Made the same stupid mistake you did. Only my conquest was plastered all over the internet for Tara to read. She just broke up with me tonight.”

“God, Mark I’m sorry. Man, how……how did this all happen so fast? A little over a year ago we hooked up with the girls of our dreams who we thought we’d be with forever. How did it all fall apart like this?”

“Spoils of fame Trev,” Mark replied. “But it wasn’t worth hurting Tara like that. I can’t say I blame her for not wanting to be with me.”

“I can’t blame Emily either,” Trevor said. “I guess we’re both gonna be married to our careers for a while.”

“Guess so. But who knows……we all may hook up again. I mean, look at our dads. They were separated from their high school sweethearts for a long time then found their way back to each other. Maybe it’ll happen for us.”

“Maybe.”

Mark and Trevor were hopeful. Perhaps in the future, Tara and Emily would find their ways back to them, just like Grace and Chelsea found their ways back to Tyler and Scott.

But like Mark’s grandpa Sav said, unfortunately it took a tragedy to bring Mark’s parents back together.

History was about to repeat itself – not just for Mark, but for Trevor as well.