Chapter 60

Later on that night, Scott and Chelsea arrived home. Scott retreated to his office to prepare for a consultation with Simon Farrell in the morning. Chelsea went to her bedroom to prepare for bed. Since she was still a jumble of nerves after what she had concluded, she decided to take a nice, warm shower to help relax her.

When she got out, she dried her still-silky blonde hair, that was now cut in a very stylish shoulder length bob. She then slathered her body with a vanilla-almond scented moisturizer before putting on her light blue jersey pajama pants and matching tank.

She took out her facial lotion and applied a light film to her face which showed nary a sign of her 42 years. Despite giving birth to two children, she still had the body of a 22 year old which she credits to not only healthy eating and exercise, but to chasing around toddlers all day long at the day care.

She turned off the light in the master bath then headed to the bed to turn down the covers. She slipped inside and rested her head on the pillow and awaited sleep to overcome her, but the relaxing shower did nothing. All she could think about was whether or not it was true that her husband had gotten Grace pregnant back when they were teenagers.

Chelsea wasn’t sure why it bothered her so much. She had long since moved to the States and had willingly cut off contact with Scott after she found out she was pregnant with Stephanie. How was she to know that they’d find each other six years later, although she was overjoyed that they did?

She figured what bothered her most was the fact that he never told her. If Grace happened to just be some girl from school, she wouldn’t have cared what happened in his past when she wasn’t a part of it. But Grace had been close with Scott since the cradle and was now their sister-in-law.

Chelsea then began to think back on all the times they had gotten together over the years and tried to remember any looks or touches that Scott and Grace shared to let on that what they felt may be something more. Never would she believe that Scott would cheat on her – especially with his brother’s wife. However, Chelsea couldn’t help but wonder if there was a secret longing for each other that they never got over since that incident – even though it was admittedly a mistake.

Chelsea went on like this for an hour until she heard Scott come in the bedroom. Thinking she was asleep, he moved about quietly in the bathroom to get washed and changed before he came out and slid into bed beside her. Chelsea moved which signaled to Scott that she was still awake. He then snuggled up behind her and put his arm around her.

“Mmm, you smell good luv,” he murmured in her neck. “I love that vanilla-almond lotion you put on your body. You smell good enough to eat. In fact……”

Chelsea heard Scott chuckle before she felt his mouth on her neck before moving down to her bare shoulder.

“Mmm, yeah,” he whispered, kissing her soft skin. “God, you’re delicious.”

Chelsea’s mind was conflicting with her body. Here she’d been thinking about her husband having feelings for their sister-in-law and beginning to secretly resent him a bit for it, yet as soon as Scott touched her, she was lost. She always was. Ever since they were 15, he had made her melt. The years never diminished their desire for each other.

Chelsea turned her head towards him and he wasted no time in capturing her mouth with his. Chelsea’s mind told her that she shouldn’t be wanting this, especially after what she discovered. She should be mad at him. She should be angry. She should be hurt. But as soon as she felt his lips on hers as his hand slowly slid up her tank to cup her breast, she was on fire.

“Oh Scott, yeah,” she whispered as she arched her body up to take more of his touch.

Scott expertly touched her everywhere he knew would make her powerless. She hated feeling powerless right now, especially with her mind still churning even as her body hummed.

“What is he thinking?” she thought to herself as his hands and mouth ran all over her. “Is he thinking of me, or is he thinking of Grace from all those years ago? Does he really still find me desirable, or does he close his eyes and think of her while he touches and kisses me? Do I still live up to his standards? Did I ever?”

As Chelsea asked herself these questions, she felt Scott’s fingers hook the waistband of her pajama bottoms and begin to slowly slide them off her. Once she was rid of them, his hand ran back up the inside length of her leg until he felt the intense heat emanating from her center.

Chelsea’s mind stirred again. “Did he touch Grace like this? Was it like this between them? How much of a relationship did they have? Am I just a substitute all these years for what he really wants?”

As she felt Scott’s fingers begin to part her, her mind snapped and she clamped her legs together.

“Chels…..?”

“Scott, I’m……I’m sorry, but……I…I can’t,” she stammered as she reached down to pull her pajama bottoms up.”

Scott sat up and stared down at her. “What? What do you mean you can’t? What’s the matter?”

“I…..I guess I’m just not in the mood,” she lied. “I’m really tired, that’s all.”

“You seemed in the mood as soon as I stared kissing and touching you,” Scott retorted. “Did I do something wrong?”

Chelsea looked at him sitting above her and let her eyes rake over him. His bare chest heaved from his anticipation and she allowed her eyes to follow the line of soft, dark blonde hair that trailed down his taut midsection, thanks to years of jogging and crunches, to where it disappeared below the waist of his pajama bottoms. Her eyes landed on the hardness straining against it, evidence of the obvious desire for her. Or was it……..for Grace?

“No, you didn’t do anything wrong,” she replied. “Scott, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have let you go on like that if I was just gonna stop.”

“You’re right – you shouldn’t have,” Scott shot back. “Damn, Chelsea, whats the matter with you? You never turn me away. Hell, most of the time you’re the one that’s all over me!”

Chelsea got out of bed and stared him down. “Oh, now you think there’s something wrong with me because I don’t want sex tonight? Just because I initiate sex a lot doesn’t mean you can automatically assume that I always want it. And tonight, I don’t. I’m sorry for not living up to your standards.”

Scott was dumbfounded. “What? What do you mean not living up to my standards? What the hell is that supposed to mean? All I wanted to do was make love to my wife.”

Chelsea looked at him with tears in her eyes. “Am I what you want, Scott?”

Scott was now thrown for a loop. “Bloody hell Chelsea, what brought this on? What is going on with you that you’re questioning how I feel about you? Tell me.”

“Its…….its nothing,” Chelsea lied. “I don’t know, I’ve just been having these feelings lately that…..I…..I just need to work it out on my own, that’s all.”

Scott walked over to her. “Chelsea, whatever’s bothering you, you know you can share it with me. You can tell me anything.”

“But you can’t share everything with me,” Chelsea thought to herself. She wanted so bad to confront him, but now wondered if it would anger him. She needed time to cool off and think about what she wanted to do.

She went to the bed and grabbed a pillow. “Scott, I’m sorry. I need to be alone right now. I’m gonna sleep in the spare room.”

Scott grabbed her arm. “Chelsea, no. Please, don’t leave. I’ll leave you alone tonight, I promise. I don’t want to sleep alone. You can trust me.”

“But I don’t trust myself,” Chelsea said back. “Scott, I want so badly to make love to you tonight, but my mind isn’t into it. It wouldn’t be fair. I’m sorry, but I just need to straighten this out on my own.”

With that, she left the bedroom and the last sound that Scott heard as his wired body and frazzled mind got back into bed was the sound of the guest room door closing.

Chapter 61

Scott awoke the following morning around six. He needed to take the tram into London to meet with Simon Farrell. Considering the sobering news he had to deliver to him, he wasn’t looking forward to it.

Last night’s episode with Chelsea didn’t making facing his difficult task today any better. The only times he and Chelsea ever slept apart was when she was in the hospital after Trevor was born or the nights that one of them would take turns sleeping in Stephanie’s room during thunderstorms. Other than that, his wife was always in his bed.

He hadn’t a clue as to what may have caused her irrational behavior. Since they were 15 years old, Chelsea had never displayed any signs of moodiness or a temper. He hoped that it was just one of those things that women sometimes go through and that she’d be over it quick.

He got out of bed and heard sounds coming from Chelsea’s dressing closet. Since Chelsea had to be at the daycare well before any of the parents arrived to drop their children off before work, he knew that she’d be getting dressed and ready to leave by now. Before he headed into the shower he peeked inside her closet and saw Chelsea standing there in a pair of black pants and a white satin and lace bra as she searched for a blouse. The last thing Scott needed to see was his wife half dressed – especially after last night.

“Good morning,” he mumbled to her.

Chelsea turned around and took in her husband’s sleepy, tousled form. “Morning,” she quietly replied.

“Are you okay?”

Chelsea shrugged as she put her blouse on and began to button it. “I’m not sure. I tried to think last night, but I couldn’t.”

“Chels, can’t you tell me what’s wrong?”

“I….no, I can’t. Its……it’s a woman thing, you know.”

“Well, if you can’t tell me, then maybe you can talk to Grace about it.”

If Scott only knew the irony of what he just said. However, something about it made Chelsea think.

“I think that’s what I have to do,” Chelsea said.

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

After Scott was showered and dressed, he went downstairs to find Trevor getting his coat out of the closet.

“Morning, lad,” Scott said as he rushed to locate his keys.

“Morning,” Trevor replied. “Aye, did you say that you were meeting with Simon Farrell today?”

“Yes, I’m leaving to catch the tram now.”

“How’s his rehab doing? I noticed that Manchester is still using their second string goalie.”

Scott grabbed his overcoat and put it on over his suit jacket. “Well, that second stringer better get comfortable. It doesn’t look like Simon will be returning.”

Trevor was shocked. “What? You’re kidding! He’s gonna miss the entire season?”

“Worse,” Scott said soberly. “His soccer career may be over.”

Trevor stood in disbelief. “Dad, what are you saying? He just hurt his knee.”

“The injury was severe Trevor,” Scott replied. “He has a massive amount of scar tissue that’s building up around his kneecap which is what’s causing him a lot of pain. He needs to have surgery to remove the tissue, but his kneecap and joint have become so accustomed to the excess tissue that once its removed, his knee will be unsupported. He may need to walk with a cane, and may even have a permanent limp, until his knee strengthens to some degree. But it will never strengthen to the point where he’ll be able to physically compete.”

Trevor was devestated. His soccer hero was over and done with, career wise, at the age of 25. “Oh my God! I don’t believe it. What’s he gonna do without soccer?”

“Well, I certainly hope that he took the advice that he gave you and finished his education. He may need to fall back on it. The pros are a lot more physical than high school. Your separated shoulder was nothing compared to some of the injuries these fellas get. I know you’re looking forward to a pro career, but be prepared for it in all facets. Well, I can’t be late. Gotta run. Bye lad.”

“Bye,” Trevor said as he grabbed his backpack and Pathfinder keys. Simon Farrell’s career ending injury would plague his mind the rest of the day.

Chapter 62

Chelsea walked around in a daze most of the morning. Since there was a nasty virus going around, several parents kept their children home from daycare. Since she had enough adults with her today to properly care for the number of children on hand, she decided to leave early. She had to do this and do it now else it would plague her forever.

Before she left, she made a telephone call.

“Hello?”

“Grace, hi its Chelsea. Are you gonna be home for a bit?”

“I’m here all day,” Grace replied. “I’ve got a ton of e-mails to go through from the record label’s site, not to mention coordinating some recording schedules with the London studio for Ty. What’s up?”

“Um…listen, I’m leaving the daycare early. I have enough staff here for the children who showed up. I…I was wondering if I could come by.”

“Sure. You….you okay?”

“I…….no, not really. I need to talk to you. Please, if its alright.”

“I’ll put on some tea,” Grace said.

“Thanks, bye.”

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

Fifteen minutes later Chelsea was walking in Grace’s front door. “Thanks for letting me come over Grace. I hope not to keep you long since you’re busy.”

“No problem,” Grace replied, noticing the sullen look on Chelsea’s face. “Are you sure you’re okay? You look tired.”

“I……I didn’t sleep well last night,” Chelsea said. “I….I have a lot on my mind and, well, I think you’re the better person to talk about it than Scott.”

Grace sat down at the table and looked Chelsea square in the eye. “Chelsea, you can tell me anything, you know that.”

“I’ll hold you to that,” Chelsea replied. “Well, first off, I need to apologize to you for something.”

“For what?”

“A few weeks ago, when you were here when Stephanie came home, I…..I overheard what you said to her after I went upstairs. When I came back down, I stood at the bottom of the stairs because I didn’t want to interrupt your moment with her. I…..I listened to what you told her. You know…..about your miscarriage.”

Grace took a deep breath and held it. She had no idea that Chelsea didn’t know after all these years. She thought at some point that maybe Scott had told her.

“Grace, I……I wanted to tell you that I’m sorry. For eavesdropping and for what happened to you so long ago. It….it must’ve been frightening. Trust me, I know.”

Grace let out the breath slowly. “Chelsea, you don’t have to apologize for that, but thank you. Yes, it was frightening, however I didn’t know I was pregnant until I miscarried. When I began to bleed, I thought I was getting my period and was relieved. But when I doubled over in pain I knew something was wrong. My dad and Ty’s dad were in London recording Ty’s demo at the time, so mum rushed me to the emergency room. That’s where we all found out. They were shocked when they found out, but in the end they were just glad that I was okay.”

Chelsea just smiled and nodded. A bit of silence passed which unnerved Grace. “Chels, is there something else you want to talk to me about? You started out by saying ‘first off’.”

Chelsea fidgeted with her teacup a bit. “Y….yes, there is. There’s something I need……no….something I have to ask you.”

Nothing could’ve prepared Grace for what Chelsea was probably going to ask her. She only hoped that, if it what she thought it was, that it wouldn’t tear them apart.

“Go ahead Chelsea. Ask me.”

Chelsea stared down at the table then took a deep breath to gather her nerve before looking up.

“Was it Scott?”

Chapter 63

Grace stared at her sister-in-law, not quite sure the affect her answer would have on her.

“Yes, Chelsea,” Grace replied, unable to lie. “It was.”

Chelsea sat there staring at Grace with a mixture of various emotions playing through her mind. Relief, for verifying what she discovered. Hurt, that Scott hadn’t thought to share this with her. And jealousy, wondering if what Grace and Scott shared was more than what she and Scott did before she moved to the States.

Grace felt as if it were hours while she was waiting for Chelsea to respond to her admission.

“Chelsea, I……I thought you knew after all these years. I thought that maybe somewhere along the line, Scott had told you.”

Chelsea shook her head and stood up, slowly pacing the kitchen. “No, he didn’t. After I overheard about your miscarriage, I mentioned it to Scott. I figured since we were in the same grade together, and also because your families are close, that he would’ve known about it. He was very skittish and unwilling to talk about it, stating that it was a private matter. Now I know why.”

“Chelsea, please…..you’ve got to understand……..”

“No, its okay,” Chelsea said through her oncoming tears. “I mean, it happened what….25 years ago? I had moved to the States. I broke off communication with Scott. He was a young, good looking lad. I had no right to think that he’d pine after me. He had every right to take up with someone else….even if it was you. He didn’t owe me details about his past. I wasn’t part of his life at that time. You were……”

“You’re wrong Chelsea,” Grace said, through tears of her own. “You have no idea how wrong you are. Your moving to the States devestated Scott. Not a day went by till we graduated high school that he didn’t talk about your or even think about you. I know…I was there. I saw the hurt in his eyes whenever I asked him if he heard from you. He had no idea where you were and didn’t know why you broke off communication with him. It wasn’t until you showed back up with Stephanie in tow that he did. But, during our last years in high school he was still hung up on you Chelsea. He rarely, if ever, dated anyone.”

Chelsea looked at Grace. “Except you?”

“Chelsea, let me explain. Around the time you left for the States, I had found out that Tyler had cheated on me. It was the summer before he left for university and, not being able to trust him, I decided it was best that we break up. So, there I was…..broken up with the lad I loved and there was Scott…..brokenhearted over the girl he loved moving to the other side of the Atlantic. We became each others shoulder to lean on, hoping that we could get over our hurt together. We then foolishly thought that hurt was enough for us to build a relationship on. But we found out that you can’t force something that isn’t meant to be. One afternoon…..one dreadful, fateful afternoon, Scott and I found ourselves alone at his parents house and we….we gave into our lonliness. We realized it was a grave mistake as soon as it happened.”

Chelsea walked back over to the table and sat across from Grace. “I…I see. So, you became pregnant from that encounter?”

“I didn’t know it at first,” Grace said. “Scott and I were worried sick. I didn’t want to buy one of those home tests because I was afraid I’d get caught. So, we waited. One morning I began to bleed and thought it was my period. But the pain became unbearable and my mum took me to the hospital. That’s when we found out that I had miscarried. Fortunately, I was fine and both my parents and Scott’s were very sensitve towards what happened, but Scott was a wreck. He thought he hurt me and ruined me. But what happened to me didn’t compare to what he had to endure because of it.”

Chelsea looked at her puzzled. “What do you mean?”

“Well, we all decided not to tell Tyler. I mean, we were broken up at the time it happened, but we wound up getting back together after his band took off. To make a long story short, Tyler wound up finding out. It was bad Chelsea. Really, really bad. He told me that he wanted nothing to do with me and told Scott that he never wanted to see his face again.”

Chelsea began to cry over what her husband had to endure at so young an age. “Oh my God, no?”

Grace nodded in response. “It was shortly after that that Scott took off to university. He tried hard to forget about the pain of losing you and losing his brother by throwing himself into his studies. He was intent on being the best sports physician he could be.”

Chelsea smiled proudly. Indeed, Scott was a fine sports physician who was sought after by many pro soccer players.

“How was it that Scott and Tyler made up?” Chelsea asked.

Grace lowered her head, remembering the most tragic event in her husband’s life.

“It was after the car accident that killed Mark and Randy from the band. Ty’s dad and Scott went to stay with him at the hospital in Canterbury. It was there that Ty realized how foolish he was and how much he did need his brother.”

Remembrance overcame Chelsea. “Yes, I….I remember that day! My mum, Stephanie and I came over to have lunch with Scott’s parents when his dad took the phone call from Ty. I had just run into Scott the day before with Stephanie. I still remember the look on his face when he realized it was me. It….it looked like his prayers had been answered.”

“That’s because they were,” Grace said. “Chelsea, you’ve got to know something. Scott and I have been together since we were babies. We’re the same age. So, when I was eleven, Scott was still a scrawny lad to me. But, Ty had turned 13 and, well, he was changing. I started noticing him in a different way. Ever since then, I had loved him, even though there were times I hated him. But Scott…..once he met you, that was it. Whereas Ty was a bit of a heartbreaker, Scott wanted to devote himself to one person. That was you. He never stopped loving or missing you – even after you moved away. Scott and I love each other, but as lifelong friends and now, family. But the love he had for you could never be matched by anything else. Even after you moved away, many lasses in school were still jealous of you because Scott didn’t want to date anyone. He was still hung up on you. You have an absolutely incredible man in your husband, Chelsea. Please….please don’t what happened so long ago come between you, or…….come between us.”

Chelsea was beside herself with tears. Tears, for the foolish petty thoughts she had the night before. Tears, for how childishly insecure she felt. Tears, for knowing that Scott’s love for her had never swayed since they were 15 years old. She had no reason to feel jealousy for what happened between him and Grace so long ago, because it happened out of grief – because he missed her. Chelsea promised herself that she would take this secret of Grace’s and do with it what Grace had been trying to – bury it in the back of her mind.

Chelsea got up and walked over to Grace, who also stood. Chelsea put her arms around her sister-in-law and hugged her tight as she sobbed.

“I’m sorry, Grace….I’m so, so sorry. I can’t believe the thoughts I was having about the two of you. How foolish and petty can I be, especially since I didn’t know the whole story?”

Grace hugged her back. “Its okay Chelsea. I don’t know how I would’ve reacted if I found out something from Ty’s past, so what you thought was understandable. Remember, we’re women. Our emotions are strong, especially when it comes to our men, even though they’re completely clueless to our emotions!”

Chelsea laughed and pulled away, grabbing a napkin to wipe her eyes. “Yes, that’s true. He probably thought I was an absolute loon last night. I….well, I had a hard time being intimate with him because of what was on my mind.”

Grace smirked at her. “Well, then I suggest that tonight you make up for it! You take that man of yours, throw him down and ravish him good! In fact, I think I’ll take that advice myself when Ty comes home!”

The two sisters-in-law just stood there having a laugh after the emotion that poured out before Chelsea decided to leave.

Boy, did she have plans for Scott tonight!

Chapter 64

After school, Tara, Emily and Brenda sat in the bleachers as they watched soccer practice. Tara and Emily scanned all the fine, sweaty lads on the field and pointed them out one by one.

“How about him?” Tara asked Brenda.

Brenda squinted to the lad Tara was pointing. “I….I guess so, I don’t know. Oh, what am I saying? Even if I do fancy someone, how do I know they’ll like me? I don’t think new clothes, hair barrettes and make up is gonna change who I really am.”

“Who you really are is a great person, Brenda,” Tara said. “You were just so shy and withdrawn that no one ever got a chance to know it. Don’t forget, you’re friends with us now so we can have Mark and Trevor put in a good word for you with the other lads.”

“And the sooner the better,” Emily said. “The Senior Winter Formal is coming up in December so we’ve got to get you steady with someone fast.”

Brenda rolled her eyes. “I don’t know if I’m gonna go. I…I’ve never been to a dance before. I never got asked and I never had to nerve to ask anyone, not that anyone would go with me.”

“The first thing that has to go is that attitude of yours,” Tara said. “Remember, you’re no longer quiet, shy and withdrawn Brenda Sullivan. Have some confidence. And…I don’t think you have to worry about someone turning you down. Your body looks mega in those clothes. I’ve seen the lads staring at you in class.”

Brenda blushed. “Stop! No they haven’t, have they?”

“Mmm, hmm,” Tara said. “With all these new jumpers you’re wearing, the lads had no idea you were hiding those boobs under there.”

Brenda crossed her arms over her generous chest. “Okay, now you’re making me paranoid.”

“She’s just teasing,” Emily said. “Now..back to finding you someone. How about…….”

“Oh God,” Brenda drawled out, cutting Emily off.

Emily looked in the direction that Brenda was and saw what caused her mouth to drop and her eyes to moon.

“Ah yes,” Emily said with a smirk. “Kyle Foster. He’s quite a looker and I do believe he doesn’t have a girlfriend. He’s finally starting this year after injuring his ankle and missing the rest of last season. So……you fancy him?”

All Brenda could do was sigh.

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

On the field, Trevor had a hard time concentrating on his drills. Ten shots were taken at the goal and Trevor let seven of them pass by him. The coach was none too pleased.

“Trevor! Lad, what’s wrong with you?” the coach barked at him. “You play like that this Saturday and we’ll lose for sure.”

Trevor hung his head, knowing that his concentration was off. He was thinking a lot about his future in pro soccer after finding out about Simon Farrell. However, it was affecting his practice and the coach was right.

“Sorry coach. My mind’s been elsewhere.”

“I don’t give a bloody crap! We’ve got a game to win this Saturday. We’ve got a championship to defend. If you have any plans on impressing any scouts this season, you better get your mind back here on this field fast, do you understand me?”

Trevor couldn’t argue with him. “Yes sir.”

Just then, Mark jogged over to him. “Whats up with you, cuz? Don’t let what happened to Simon get you down. That was a freak thing. Players get injured all the time and they’re not always that serious.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” Trevor admitted.

They both looked up to see Kyle trot over to them. “Aye, sorry to bother you mates, but um….who’s that lovely thing sitting with your girlfriends? She’s been staring at me all afternoon.”

Mark looked past Kyle to see Brenda sitting smack dab in the middle of Tara and Emily. “That’s Brenda Sullivan. She’s certainly changed, huh?”

“I’ll say,” Kyle drawled, looking back at Brenda.

Trevor playfully shoved Kyle in the arm. “Go for it, mate! May as well. The Senior Winter Formal is coming up soon.”

Mark groaned. “Oh crikey! We’re gonna have to put on penguin suits and dance!”

“Yeah, well it’s the after-dance that’s the big party,” Kyle said. “Its tradition that a bunch of people rent out rooms at the hotel where the dance is gonna be and celebrate till the morning.”

Mark’s face lit up. “Now, that sounds like my kind of dance! We’ll rent a limo and get the rooms. Hey, maybe we can get two connecting rooms – one for public partying and one for um……private!”

Trevor looked at his lecherous cousin. “I hope your dad knows he’s paying for this, Mark.”

“Must be nice being rich,” Kyle said to Mark.

“Well, my dad’s rich….I’m broke, or so he keeps telling me,” Mark mused, before turning to Trevor. “I’m sure we can talk your dad into it, plus Wes and Sean’s.”

“Aye, if I can get an introduction with Brenda and take her to the dance, you can count me in on the cost of the room,” Kyle said.

“Mega,” Mark said, high-fiving Kyle.

“You sure our parents are gonna let us stay out all night?” Trevor asked.

“Of course,” Mark replied. “Trev, we’re seniors. This is our last year. They know that we’ve got to get everything out of our system. Plus, they were our age once and probably did the same. Hell, my dad was only two years older than me when he was on tour with the band and shagging groupies in hotels. And your dad’s cool. No problem.”

“Now, all we’ve got to do is convince the girls,” Trevor said.

Trevor, Mark and Kyle looked over at Emily, Tara and Brenda and waved. They waved back.

“God, Tara looks mega in that tight jumper,” Mark drawled. “I’m long overdue for some action. What about you and Emily?”

Trevor rolled his eyes and blushed with Mark asking that in front of Kyle. “Mark, please! I don’t have to report what I do with Emily to you.”

“I think this is where I leave,” Kyle mused. “Since I’m presently unattached, I don’t’ want to hear about other blokes getting what I’m not.”

Mark and Trevor then saw Brenda still staring at Kyle.

“Well mate, that may be about to change,” Mark said with a smile.

Chapter 65

Scott came home from the London clinic at about six that evening. He was absolutely exhausted, both mentally and physically. As he expected, Simon Farrell didn’t take the news about his career ending injury too well. Scott knew it would be devestating, but no matter how good of a bedside manner you have, there’s no way to sugarcoat bad news.

All he wanted to do tonight was have some dinner and unwind, preferably with his wife to comfort him. However, considering what happened last night and the uncertain reception from her this morning, he didn’t know what to expect from her tonight.

When he pulled in the garage, he saw that Trevor’s Pathfinder was gone, signaling that he was out. He parked his Inifiniti and went into the mudroom through the garage door and entered the kitchen. His senses were assailed by a wonderful aroma.

He went over to the stove and opened the door to find a delicous looking pork roast and vegetables cooking. He looked at the timer and saw that there was about a half hour left. He figured that Chelsea must be upstairs and went in search of her. On his way, he passed by the dining room and saw it set with fine china and crystal wine goblets for two.

Scott smiled to himself, filled with hope that all was well with his wife. He hung up his coat, put his briefcase down and ascended the stairs as he began to loosen his tie.

He entered their masterbedroom to find Chelsea coming out of her dressing closet, clad in tan pants and a soft white jersey that accented her still-fit body after all these years. She greeted her husband with a soft smile.

“Hi.”

Scott’s eyes perused his wife from head to toe, wanting her so much since his attempt last night, before looking at her face with hope.

“Hi,” he replied. “I uh….saw the roast in the oven and the table set. It looks lovely, Chels. And….so do you.”

“I called the clinic to find out when you left then the tram station to see when you’d be arriving so I could time dinner. Trevor went for pizza tonight with Emily – something about a friend of her’s that they’re trying to fix up with one of his teammates. I knew you’d have a difficult day today with your meeting with Simon, so…….its just you and I.”

Scott’s eyes never left his wife’s as he slid his tie off and began to unbutton his shirt. “That’s so thoughtful, luv. Um….I take it that you’re feeling better?”

Scott winced a bit, not sure if he should’ve brought up what had happened and ruin this perfect moment.

“Yes, I am. Much better,” she replied as she walked towards him. She stilled his hand from unbuttoning his shirt and put her arms around his neck to hug him close.

“I’m so sorry about last night,” she softly said with a choked voice. “I can’t believe how foolish I was…..the thoughts I was hav…..”

Chelsea broke into a full sob to which Scott hugged her tight and stroked her silky hair.

“Shhh, Chels, its alright. I just wished I could’ve helped you. I hope everything is fine now.”

Chelsea nodded into his shoulder. “Yes, it is. Everything couldn’t be better. You know why?”

“Why?”

She pulled back and looked into the face that captivated her since she was 15. “Because I have the most incredible man for a husband, that’s why. I always knew you were, but, well, sometimes, you discover something that makes the person in your life even more precious. And today, I discovered it about you.”

Scott bore his blue eyes into hers. “What did you discover?”

“That its possible to love you more than I already do,” she replied, before pulling him down for soft kiss. She then pulled back.

“Dinner won’t be ready for a half hour or so. Why don’t you take a nice shower and unwind, okay?”

“Okay,” Scott replied as his body tingled with anticipation about finishing what they started last night.

He went into the masterbath, opened the floor to ceiling shower stall and turned the water on to warm up. He then finished undressing, brushed his teeth then got inside. The warm water did nothing to dissipate the affect his wife had on his body. As the water caressed his skin, he pictured it was her hands instead. His vision so vivid, that it actually felt like her hands – until his eyes flew open and he turned to find Chelsea in the shower behind him.

He was so into his thoughts that he didn’t hear the shower door open, nor Chelsea step inside. He took in her glorious, naked body with drops of water beaded all over it then locked his eyes on hers.

“Chels…….”

That was all Scott got out before Chelsea wrapped her body around his and drew him down for a hungry kiss. Their hands, lips and tongues were everywhere as their frenzy for each other from the night before was tripled. Scott was never one to rush, but he knew he’d have more of her later since Trevor wasn’t home. He had to have her now. And fast!

“Chels,” he panted in her ear. “I want you so bad – right now! I can’t wait.”

“Me neither,” she whispered back as she softly bit his shoulder. Scott growled at the pleasurable pain before holding her out at arms length. He then turned her around, placed her hands flat against the tiled wall and entered her from behind.

Chelsea sucked in her breath, threw her head back and gasped his name at the invasion that was rough enough to appease the need for him right now. But it wasn’t enough.

“Yeah, Scott! That’s it baby! Oh, God more……more! Yes! Oh, God yes! Faster Scott, faster!!”

Scott was oblivious to everything except slamming himself into her. He punctuated his words with each thrust.

“Bloody……hell……Chelsea……ah…….dammit! I’m……I’m……..God, you’re gonna make me come!”

“Yes! Now! Me too! Please!”

They violently climaxed together as the water continued to wash over them. After a few moments, Scott put his arms around her from behind and pulled her up to where he back was flush against his front. He then put his mouth to her ear.

“Lets finish up in here quick so I can get you in bed,” he rasped in her ear.

She turned to face him and smirked. “What about dinner?”

Scott smiled wickedly. “Let it burn!”

Chapter 66

The following morning Trevor came down for breakfast and found his mum and dad already in the kitchen. When he entered undetected, he halted a bit.

Scott was dressed in track pants, sweatshirt and Nike’s, preparing to go for his morning run. He was downing a small glass of juice and a slice of toast to give him some energy. Inbetween bites, he kept nuzzling Chelsea’s neck and they were giggling like teenagers.

Trevor came in, clearing his throat. “Uh, good morning.”

Scott and Chelsea turned around like two kids that were caught in the act. “Oh, morning lad,” Chelsea said with a flush. Scott just winked at him.

“What are the two of you still doing here?”

“Well, today’s my day off,” Scott said. “And….I’ve convinced your mother to leave the daycare in the hands of her capable employees for the day. So, your mum and I are gonna have the day to ourselves.”

Chelsea replied with a wicked giggle, to which Trevor caught on. “Aw, crikey!” he muttered.

Scott looked at him. “Something wrong, lad?”

“No, its just that you’re acting like two lovesick kids since last night, now I know why.”

“Yep, your mum and I took advantage of you being out last night, and we plan on doing more of the same as soon as you leave for school,” Scott mused.

Chelsea reacted by shushing Scott and giving him a little punch, to which Trevor held a hand to his stomach and faked being sick. “Okay, that’s it! Forget about holding breakfast down.”

Scott waved him off. “Oh, stop it! Blimey, its not like your mum and I are ancient. We’re only 42, but we’re as fit as we were when we were 22 and, well……”

Scott dragged off that last sentence, too shy to finish it. And Trevor was too shy to hear anymore.

“Okay, I’m outta here for good,” he said getting up. But before he left, he realized that it might be a good idea to take advantage of his parents in such an amorous mood.

“Um, before I leave, I just wanted to tell you that the Senior Winter Formal is next month. Of course, Emily and I are going, but, well there’s a tradition to stay out all night. A bunch of us are gonna get together and chip in to get a limo for the night and two adjoining rooms at the hotel where the dance will be. We’re just gonna stay up all night and celebrate. We’re not gonna do anything rowdy or perverted, if that’s what you’re worried about. I mean, it is my last year and we really want to…..”

“Sure Trev, that’s fine. Just let me know how much you need,” Scott said.

Scott was dumbfounded. Perhaps his parents should shag every night! He quickly dismissed the thought with a sour look.

“Um….thanks dad. As soon as we settle all the details I’ll let you know.”

Scott was ignoring his son, as he was intent on pinching his wife’s bum.

“Dad!”

Scott looked up, completely unfazed. “Oh, yeah, right. Okay. Like I said, just let me know. Now…..have a nice day, Trevor.”

Trevor got the hint and left through the mudroom to the garage, cringing over the thought of how his parents were gonna spend the day.

Chapter 67

Mark came out of his room, slinging his backpack over his shoulder. He stopped by his parents masterbedroom and heard the masterbath shower running and his mum humming. He then went in search of his father.

Tyler was in the exercise room doing his morning workout. He took meticulous care to stay in shape, especially with all the traveling that he did. And, at 44, he looked pretty damned good.

Mark entered the exercise room to find his father flat on his back on a bench while pressing 25 pound chrome dumbbels over his head.

“Aye dad, got a minute?”

Tyler put the dumbbells by his side and rolled himself up. “Sure,” he said putting the dumbbells down and grabbing a towel to wipe the sweat on his brow. “What’s up?”

Mark worked on the best approach to use, even though he didn’t think he’d have a hard time convincing him. He leaned against the wall and folded his arms.

“Well…..you and mum were my age once, right?”

Tyler raised one, inquisitive brow, wondering just exactly what his seventeen year old son wanted.

“Yes we were,” Tyler answered.

“And,” Mark continued, as he walked around in a rationalizing manner, “there was a time when you realized that those were the best years of your life and wanted to take every advantage…..”

“Spill it Mark,” Tyler said with a smirk. “What do you want and how much will it cost me?”

Mark feigned an appalled looked by pointing to his chest and widening his eye. “Dad, I’m insulted!”

“No, you’re a poor actor. Not to mention the fact that you’re as transparent as an onion skin. Now……just tell me.”

“Okay. The Senior Winter formal is next month. It’s the biggest dance of the year for seniors, so……there’s a tradition to make the most of it. You know…..go in style, limo, renting rooms, staying out till morning….”

“Yes, I know all about it Mark,” Tyler said. “And, you’re right – this is your last year. I can’t deny you what I wanted so badly to do myself. But, I do have some rules, lad.”

Mark rolled his eyes and blew out a breath. “Crikey, here we go!”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Nothing, sorry,” Mark apologized. “What do I have to agree to?”

“I’ll talk to Uncle Scott and he and I will take care of the limo and the rooms. We will rent the rooms – in our names, so I know where you’ll be and which rooms you’ll be in, just in case. You will not do anything rowdy nor will you trash the rooms in anyway. Make sure all your friends know. I know the girls will be with you, so all I’ll say on that is that you be careful and respect them. Is that understood?”

Mark knew there was no other way, but he couldn’t complain. “So, you’re not gonna plan on popping in on us, are you?”

Tyler folded his arms. “Maybe.”

“I guess I don’t have a choice.”

“Nope!”

“It’s a deal dad,” Mark resigned. “I knew you’d be cool about it.”

“Well, I don’t want you looking back and say ‘what if’, you know?” Tyler said. “You know, your first semester is almost up. Have you been thinking about what you want to do after graduation?”

Mark stuck his hands in his pockets, as he faced the one question he dreaded most. “No, not really. I….guess I’ll start getting applications to some local universities.”

Tyler went over to the treadmill and began to set it. “Is that what you want to do?”

Mark shrugged. “I guess. I mean, I don’t know dad. I honestly haven’t a clue as to what I want to do. But, I guess I should go to school, right?”

“Mark, that’s not my decision to make. Whether its school or something else, you’ve got to make up your mind. Graduation will be here before you know it.”

Mark looked down at the floor. “Yeah, I know,” he whispered.

Tyler stepped off the treadmill and went over to his son. “Mark, whats wrong?”

Mark shrugged again. “Its…its just, I feel so lost. I know I should be getting my act together, but I just don’t know.”

“Mark, I felt the same way you did,” Tyler reassured him. “I didn’t really want to go to university, but I felt it was something you had to do after highschool. Granted, I do think that an education is important, but I don’t want you to do something you’re not happy with. I went to university thinking my calling would autmatically come to me, and it did, but it had nothing to do with school. But, if I never went to university, I never would’ve met Mark Shepard and our dream of forming a band never would’ve happened. I want you to think about your future Mark, but I don’t want you to force anything either, alright?”

Mark nodded. “Alright. Thanks dad. I just….I just don’t want you to think I’m some sort of…..you know…..loser.”

Tyler took Mark’s shoulder and make him face him. “Look at me, Mark. You are not a loser! You are my son! You’re not even eighteen yet. Its okay if you don’t know what you want, but I do want you to think about it, okay?”

“Yeah,” Mark replied. “Thanks dad.”

Mark turned to leave as Tyler got back up on his treadmill. He knew exactly what his son was going through for he went through the same thing.

Whether Mark’s calling would come as easily as his father’s did will remain to be seen.

Chapter 68

Tyler finished up his workout then headed to his masterbath to shower. As soon as he stepped out, he wrapped a towel around his waist, shook his wet, wavy hair then stepped in front of the large,mirrored vanity to shave. He was interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Yeah?”

“You decent?”

Tyler smiled upon hearing his wife’s voice. “What if I’m not?” he countered.

“Then you better let me in,” Grace replied.

Tyler opened the door and met his wife’s mischievous face. He then watched her eyes slowly peruse him all the way down to what was starting to protrude through the towel. Tyler leaned haughtily on the vanity and stared her down.

“See something you like?”

“I couldn’t wait for you to finish working out and get out of that shower!” Grace growled as she practically pounced on him. Her hands filled themselves with his wet hair as her mouth proceeded to clean up the drops of water all over his chest. Tyler began to chuckle wickedly.

“Not that I mind, but what’s gotten into you?”

“Hopefully you, as soon as I take this damn towel off you,” she replied as she began to slide her track pants off. “You know I get like this the same time every month. Damn hormones make me horny as hell!”

Tyler knew how his wife got this time every month and knew that she liked it spontaneous, fast and hard when she was like this. And, he knew just how to please her.

“Hurry up and turn around towards the mirror so I can fuck you good and hard the way you like it,” he growled, knowing that she loved the dirty talk when she was like this.

“Oh yeah, baby,” Grace said as she slipped her panties down as well. She turned around, put her hands on the vanity and threw her head back.

“Yeah, give it to me now!”

Tyler was rock hard in an instant and was about to slam into his wife when he heard his daughter call out and a knock on their bedroom door.

“Mum! You in here?”

“Shit, Abby,” Grace murmured. “I thought she left for school already.”

Grace quickly pulled her bottoms back up and looked at her aroused husband who had an anguished look on his face.

“I feel the same way,” she said. “Don’t go anywhere. We’ll continue this.”

“Damn right we will!” Tyler countered as Grace left the bathroom.

She opened the bedroom door to find Abby standing there looking weird.

“Abby, what are you still doing here? I thought you got picked up already?”

Abby stood there with a look of embarrassment on her face. “I’m…I’m not going to school today. I don’t feel good.”

Grace groaned inside knowing that she wouldn’t be able to finish her morning shag now. “Whats wrong? “

Abby wrung her hands. “Well, I…..I just don’t feel good.”

“That’s not good enough Abby,” Grace said, feeling her forehead. “You don’t have a temperature. Unless you can be specific, I’m taking you to school myself…..”

“No! Please, mum I….I can’t. Just today, okay?”

Grace was now concerned. “Abby, is something the matter? Something you should tell me.”

Abby knew she had to say something, else her mother would bring her to school.

“Mum, I……I think I just got my period.”

Grace smiled. “Abby, there’s nothing wrong with that. We’ve been waiting for it. I know most girls get it around 11 or 12. There’s nothing wrong. Do you have supplies in your bathroom?”

“Yes, I do,” Abby said with a bright red face. “I feel like I’ve got a soccer ball stuffed in my knickers. I can’t go to school like this. All my jeans are low and kind of fitted. It’ll show through.”

“Then wear your long denim skirt,” Grace said.

“Mum, please…just for today. Can I please stay home? I feel kind of knackered, crampy too. I just want to go back to bed.”

Grace figured if Abby went back to her room, she could go back to her husband whom she hoped was still ready for her.

“Okay, fine. Just for today. Go lay down and I’ll bring you some Motrin, okay.”

Abby gave her mum a kiss. “Thanks mum,” she said with relief before going back to her bedroom.

“Finally,” Grace heaved as she went to track her man down and finish her unfinished business.

Chapter 69

January, 2044

The new year rang in with a lot to be grateful for for everyone abound.

The month of December started off with Sav celebrating another year, for which he was very blessed indeed. He and Joe were in good health and watching each other like hawks. Scott had turned 43 and Abby, good Lord, turned 13 on Christmas Eve and had a party the following weekend that gave Grace and Tyler a headache.

Mark and Trevor attended their Senior Winter formal with Tara and Emily respectively and had a blast. Well, for the lads it was, especially afterwards. Needless to say, a soccer game between two very heated rivals was on the same night as the dance. Wesley’s father had taped and, right before the dance was over, Wesley went home to get the tape.

Their wild after party at the hotel consisted of the lads in one room watching the game and the girls in the adjoining room watching cable. But, the lads did manage to get some time with their ladies as they all engaged in some harmless, but lusty fun, before they all crashed at around 3 in the morning.

By nine o’clock am, Mark’s cell phone rang. Tyler had called him to make sure all the teens were awake, so they could get up and out before checkout, and also to tell Mark that he had placed a huge room service order for breakfast that was being delivered to their room.

Since everyone had bought a change of clothes, they all showered and changed before chowing down on two breakfast carts full of eggs, bangers, beljium waffles, flapjacks, bacon, toast and juice.

Positively stuffed, the youngsters checked out and headed home. After Trevor and Mark dropped Emily and Tara off home, they each retreated to their own home and went back to sleep.

And now the new year brings a promises of new challenges, as well as the reality of the final semester of highschool before the real world sets upon them. Trevor was enjoying a fantastic season so far and anticipated if a future in pro soccer was around the corner. Tara had decided to take her talent for drawing and apply to American InterContinental University in London for fashion design. Emily was thinking about becoming a paralegal and looked into some schools in London as well.

The one person who felt out of place was Mark. He still had no idea what he wanted to do. Sure, he was having a great year on the squad, but playing the pros is not his life long dream, as was Trevor’s. The more Mark thought about making a decision on what to do with his life, the more he put it off. He tried to forget about it by playing the drums more and more. His great-uncle Rick had sent him the cymbals from his kit, as promised, and Mark hooked them up to his Pearl kit. As Mark pounded on the drums almost nightly, the sound, combined with the guitars and bass coming from the tape machine, drowned out the decision about his future nagging him.

The one thing that both lads were still very sure about was their feelings for their girlfriends. As hard as they tried to avoid seriousness, they were unable to. Even though neither lad, had uttered the ‘L’ word, they knew that they loved them in their hearts. Tara had gotten to Mark in a way that no other lass did and it frightened him a bit. He knew that this wasn’t just dating anymore. They were almost 18 – practically adults, and their relationship was progressing as well. Trevor, on the other hand, hadn’t budged in his feelings towards Emily since the first day he cast eyes on her. He, too, feared that their respective futures would pull them apart in different directions.

As for the adults, Chelsea and Scott’s relationship was stronger than ever since Chelsea discovered the secret from Scott’s past. Even at their age, they still acted like teenagers in love, much to Trevor’s disgust!

Tyler and Grace had their hands full with 13 year old Abby, but we’re fully prepared for it. Grace continued to oversee her husband’s ventures with a careful eye and held down the fort when Tyler traveled. He and Kevin were enjoying the fruits of the labor as they watched young, unknown acts grow and become stars under their guidance.

One band in particular, Fusion, whom they signed over two years ago, broke out big time with their debut album selling over 5 million copies. After a short break, the band was now getting ready to record their sophomore album and were going to use Tyler’s London studio in the spring.

All in all, the new year sure did bring a mix to Sheffield. Thanks for what they had and hope for what was to come. Especially for Mark and Trevor.

Neither of them had not a clue of the unexpected turn of events that would greet them after high school.

Chapter 70

One month Later

February, 2044

On an unusually warm February night, Mark and Tara came out of the cinema at around 9:45. Tara clasped her hand in his and snuggled into his side. “Do you want to go home? Or, do you want to go get some tea or………?”

“Lets go to the overlook,” Mark said quickly. “I just….I just want to sit and look at the stars. Its so clear out tonight.”

Tara noticed the somber tone in his voice – the same tone that he’d had for the last month or so. She knew that Mark hadn’t made a decision on what to do after highschool, but she never asked him about it. She only happened to know because Emily told her, after Trevor told her after Mark confided his anxieties in him. Tara decided not to question him, but to give him his space to think on his own. Perhaps tonight he’d open up to her.”

They drove to the overlook and parked. Mark got out and opened the passenger door of his Jeep and pushed the seats down so they’d disappear. He then opened his sunroof and told Tara to climb in the back. They both laid on their backs and stared at the sky through the sunroof. Both were quiet for a few moments before Tara spoke up first.

“Mark, you okay?”

“Yeah, I guess,” he lied.

“Well, you’ve been acting like something’s been bothering you for a while. I haven’t said anything because I thought it was something you wanted to work out on your own. I still won’t ask, but I’m here for you if you want to tell me.”

Mark turned his head to stare at his wonderful, beautiful girlfriend who was laying on her side, staring into his eyes and lovingly caressing his arm with comfort. They had been together since July, however Mark still hadn’t uttered those three fateful words that he so longed to tell her and, he was sure, she longed to hear. Tara was special beyond any other girl he had dated. His days of dating more than one girl at a time were long gone, for Mark couldn’t imagine anyone else capturing his fancy the way Tara did. The way she came into his life was fate and he knew they were together for a reason. He only wondered how long they’d be together.

“Tara, w..what do you think will happen to us when high school is over?”

“Well, I’m hoping that we’ll still be together, even after I go off to design school in the fall and you……you……”

“Yeah, exactly,” Mark said with bitterness. “Go ahead…admit it….I’m a bloody loser!”

Tara sat up shocked. “What? What do you mean loser? Have you gone loony Mark Savage?”

Mark sat up and faced her. “C’mon Tara, face it. My days of being a high school hero are numbered. Everyone knows what they want to do after high school except me. Everyone’s gonna go off in their own direction, and I’m probably gonna be stuck here in Sheffield, living with my parents for the rest of my life because I can’t get my act together. And you’ll go off to design school in London, then probaby become a fashion designer then meet some stud male model like Stef’s husband and……”

“Mark, stop it! Just stop it! This isn’t like you. Not like you at all. When I first met you, you were so arrogant and sure of yourself. Now you’re acting like a lost puppy.”

“Because that’s what I feel like!” Mark said with frustration. “I don’t know what I want to do with my life. It…..it scares the hell out of me, Tara.”

Tara rubbed the back of his neck. “Mark, you’re not even 18 yet. Not every high school senior knows what they want to do with the rest of their lives. Don’t forget, that there’s always your dad’s record business that he can pass down to you.”

“I don’t want a handout, Tara,” Mark said. “I want to accomplish something on my own. Even though my dad was the son of a rock star, he put his band together without his help or influence because they didn’t want the public thinking that they only reason he got somewhere was because of his dad. I want to do the same thing.”

“Mark, that’s very admirable of you. But please…don’t worry. Maybe you’ll need to take a few months off after graduation so you can think about your future with the pressure of finishing high school off your back.”

“But where does that leave us, Tara? Do you still want to be with someone who hasn’t a clue about where his life’s gonna lead him?”

Tara took his face in her hands. “I’m gonna be right here, Mark. As long as you want me to be in your life. I…I know we’ve been together for 7 months and, well, I know its hard for lads to say things like this, but I just don’t care anymore. I’m not gonna wait for you, so I’ll just say it first. I love you. I have loved you for quite some time, but I’ve been waiting for you to say it first. I didn’t want to pressure you, but now I just don’t care. I can’t hide my feelings. It was fate that we met and I believe we met for a reason. You’ll find your path Mark….just don’t force it, okay?”

Mark looked into her eyes, trying to fight back tears that were threatening to well up. His emotions had been high these past few months worrying about his future and disappointing those around him. He hugged Tara tightly.

“Oh Tara, I love you too. I just….I was scared to say it – scared that you didn’t feel the same way – scared that once I said it, you’d take off on me in the fall and I’d never see you again.”

Tara began to kiss his face. “I’m here Mark,” she whispered. “I’m right here.”

Their lips met in a hot, passionate kiss as their declarations of love, combined with the warm starry night, took over. Mark laid her back down and hooked his leg over hers as their young limbs began to entwine. It didn’t take long for them to know what this would lead to.

Tara began to unfasten his jeans while Mark worked on hers. Right now, they had a desperate need for each other to cement their profession of love. Mark kicked off his sneakers so he could shed his jeans and boxers. He then opened the center console and dug down deep for his emergency condom.

With the package in his hand, Tara drew him down and wrapped her legs around him and kissed him hard. Both were grinding their naked lower halves against each other, reveling in the barrier free feeling of each others hot skin.

Mark suddenly felt himself dangerously against Tara’s opening and began to tear the condom package open. “Tara…..hold on….let me….get this….FUCK!”

Their movements had caused Mark to accidentally plunge inside of Tara. She was so hot and wet that he slipped right inside. The incredible feeling of her gripping him without the condom for dull the sensation was mindshattering.

“Tara! Jesus, God…..you feel bloody fantastic!”

“I know,” she panted back. “It feels so good.”

“Tara, I…..I better pull out and put the condom on but….”Mark began to slide out but it felt too good to pull out all the way. “Dammit, it feels too good to stop!”

“Can’t we just do this for a bit, then pull out later?” she asked.

“Yeah, I guess. As long as I don’t come. God, this feels so good.”

Mark continued to carefully thrust in and out of Tara as she greedily met each one. She suddenly raised one of her legs higher to where it was almost over his shoulder, which caused Mark to sink in even deeper.

“Holy shit, Tara!” Mark shouted inbetween thrusts. “I……I better stop…..I…..I……I…..can’t….I….. “

Tara threw her head back and practically screamed. “Oh my god, Mark! Not yet. Please, not yet!”

“Tara, I….I’m…..I’m……bloody fucking hell!”

As Tara bit down on his shoulder in ecstasy, Mark spilled himself hard and fast inside of her as his fist clenched the unused condom in his hand.

Chapter 71

A week later

At school, Tara couldn’t concentrate on anything. All she could think about was that she could possibly be pregnant. She knew that she and Mark were irresponsible last night, but it felt just too good to stop.

Right before lunch, Emily found her at her locker. “Ready?”

Tara snapped out of her daze to look at her cousin. “For what?”

“Lunch,” Emily replied with question. “Whats wrong with you? You’ve been acting funny for a few days.”

“Funny, how?”

“Funny, moody. Funny, quiet. Funny…..just funny,” Emily said.

Tara shrugged and shut her locker. “Look, go on without me. I’m not hungry. I’m gonna go to study hall and……”

“Tara, whats wrong? You can tell me. You can tell me anything.”

Tara’s eyes began to well up with tears. “Em, I…..I don’t know for sure, but…..I…..I could be pregnant.”

Emily’s eyes widened and her mouth dropped. “What? You….you sure?”

“No, I don’t know for sure,” Tara trembled. “It….it happened a week ago. Mark and I were in his SUV and, well, things got out of hand. We had a condom, but we started out without it and……..ended without it. God, Emily…what am I gonna do? I’m only 17! I’m supposed to start design school in the fall! I’m….I’m……”

Emily put her hands on Tara’s shoulders. “Listen, first thing you have to do is find out for sure. No sense in worrying over something that isn’t there. Lets go get one of those home tests…..”

“No! I’m afraid someone will see us in the store and tell your parents. They’ll kill me. Hell, they’ll kill Mark!”

“No they won’t Tara. But, you have to find out now instead of waiting to get your period…..or not.”

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

At footie practice that afternoon, Mark was everywhere except on the field. Well, at least his mind wasn’t on the field. He was all over the place and messing up his assigments. The coach blew the whistle for time out and called him over.

“Mark, whats going on out there? You’re defense has been horrible all week.”

Mark sighed and shook his head. “I know, I’m sorry. I’ve….I’ve got other things on my mind.”

“Well, get them off your mind, lad! We’re in the final stretch here. If we don’t win a majority of our games these next two months, we can kiss the finals goodbye. Understand?”

Mark solemnly nodded and went over to get some water. Trevor came up behind him.

“Mark, what’s up?”

“Not my playing, that’s for sure,” Mark replied. “I just want to get out of here.”

“Mark, what’s bothering you?” Trevor asked. “This isn’t like you. I know you play defense a lot better than that.”

Mark knew he could tell Trevor anything, but he didn’t want to look like more of a screw up than he already appeared to be. It was one thing not having any direction after high school and messing up on the soccer field. The last thing he wanted anyone to know, Trevor included, was that he may have gotten his girlfriend in trouble because of his inability to control himself.

“I…I don’t know,” Mark lied. “I think I hurt my ankle a few days ago. Its been bothering me, so I don’t want to aggravate it.”

“Maybe you should have my dad look at it,” Trevor suggested.

A lightbulb went over Mark’s head. He and Tara were going through hell waiting and they needed to find out now.

“Yeah, I think I do need to see your dad.”

Chapter 72

Mark walked into Shrewsbury Hospital and went up to the front desk. “Excuse me, can you tell me if Dr. Scott Savage is working today?”

The receptionist checked the staff list. “Yes, he is.”

“Could you page him for me, please? Tell him his nephew Mark is here and……its kinda urgent.”

Mark sat down in the waiting area as the receptionist picked up the phone. He stuck his hands in his jacket pockets and slumped down in the chair, looking as if the weight of the world was on his shoulders. What was he going to do if Tara was pregnant? What should they do about? Should they abort it? The thought of that made him wince. He couldn’t let Tara suffer through that and possibly ruin her chances for more children. Should they keep it? If so, how would they afford to take care of it? Even if he were to get a job, he wouldn’t know what to do. He had absolutley no dirction. Maybe…maybe they could give it up for adoption, then live with the haunting image of a faceless son or daughter out there somewhere for the rest of his life.

His hands began to shake as he realized just how one irresponsible moment of passion could change the course of his entire life.

“What am I going to do?” he whispered to himself.

“Mark?”

Mark looked up to see his Uncle Scott walking towards him. He got up and met him.

“Aye, Uncle Scott. Um….can…can I talk to you?”

Scott noticed his nervousness and glassy eyes. “What’s wrong? Do you feel okay?”

“I….I feel okay, but……I need your advice on something.”

Scott folded his arms. “Is your father away…….?”

“I can’t ask him!” Mark emphatically said. “I mean…..Uncle Scott, please promise not to say anything.”

Scott was getting worried. He sat down and motioned for Mark to sit as well. “Lad, unless I know why you’re here, I won’t have anything to tell. Please Mark…..what is it?”

“I…..I think I may have….I mean, Tara and I….I mean…….she…..she may be pregnant.”

Scott’s insides fell as those words instantly transported him back 25 years when he was in the same position. He knew exactly how frightened Mark was feeling right now.

“Mark, are you saying that Tara doesn’t know for sure?”

“Yeah. She wants to get one of those home tests, but she’s afraid someone will see her in the store. Uncle Scott, we have to find out now. We’re going nuts waiting for her to get her……you know.”

Scott grinned and nodded. “I know. Now Mark, I want you to listen to me. First of all, just the fact that you came here for help tells me that you care and that you’re responsible. Its very mature of you, I want you to know that. Now, here’s the deal. There is a clinic outside the city limit. They’re very discreet and won’t contact your parents if you’re under 18. Now, you are to pick Tara up and take her there for a bloodtest. They’ll give you the results within an hour. You do this together, Mark. And….if the results are…..positive, just remember you have people around you who love you and who’ll help you – your father included. You’ll have to tell your parents.”

Mark digested everything, but was still nervous. “I….I will, but only if there’s something to tell – which I hope there isn’t.”

Scott rubbed his back. “Lets hope so. But, like I said Mark. You’ve shown great responsibility showing up here like this. It also shows me how much you care about Tara.”

“I do, I mean….I love her, its just….we’re too young and we’ve – well, she’s got her life ahead of her. I still don’t know what I want to do with mine. I feel like such a screw up sometimes, which is why I didn’t want to tell my dad. Hell, I didn’t even tell Trevor. I don’t want anyone to know, but I had to come to someone for help. I knew you’d understand.”

Scott was alarmed a bit. “Why….why would you think I’d understand?”

“Well, because….you know…..you got Aunt Chelsea pregnant when you were both 16, even though you didn’t know about it.”

Scott blew out a relieved breath. “Trust me, lad. I do understand. More than you know. Now, make arrangements with Tara for the clinic. They’re open on Saturday for convenience so go as soon as possible.”

Mark stood up and nodded. “Okay. We will. Th….thanks Uncle Scott. I…..appreciate it.”

Scott closed in on him and hugged him. “We’re here for you lad – all of us, for both of you. Don’t worry, okay?”

Mark nodded against his uncle’s shoulder, but those words did nothing to appease his fear.

Chapter 73

That following Saturday, Mark headed out around 11:00am, but not before running into his mum first.

“Where you off to so early?” Grace asked as she saw him leave through the garage.

Mark halted and gulped a bit. “Oh, mum, I….I thought you were in the exercise room. I uh…didn’t want to disturb you so I left you a note. Um…Tara and I are going out for the day.”

Grace took the note and glanced at it, then the clock. “Its not like you to even roll out of bed until eleven on a Saturday, Mark.”

“Oh, uh…..Tara mentioned something about a countryside ride. We heard it was supposed to be a nice day. Then have lunch.”

“Well, don’t be too late,” Grace said. “Your father will be back from London around three and then Uncle Scott, Aunt Chelsea and the grandparents will be over here tonight. Stephanie and Frank are in town and we’re all having dinner. It would be nice for you to be here.”

Mark would agree to anything right now, if only to get out of the house. “Y..yeah, sure mum. I’ll be back in time. Bye.”

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

Several hours later, Mark and Tara held hands as they sat in the waiting area, waiting for the results of her pregnancy test. Around them were a few young girls who were alone and probably there for the same reason, along with two girls who were pregnant. Tara saw the uncertainty in their eyes and squeezed Mark’s hand tighter.

Mark looked down at their clasped hands as Tara squeezed his tight. He then saw where Tara was looking.

“Tara, don’t worry luv,” he tried to reassure her. “Remember, we have a lot of people behind us who’ll be there for us if…..if the test is positive.”

Tara turned to him with tears in her eyes. “Mark, I’m so scared. This is all my fault!”

“What? Don’t be absurd! We both……”

“No, I kept on encouraging you, even though you knew you had to stop. I told you not to stop. I….I couldn’t help it. It felt so good and….and I love you so much, but a good feeling isn’t worth going through this hell.”

“I know, luv. But it happened and all we can do is wait. So…..you love me a lot, eh?”

Tara saw his attempt to lighten the mood a bit. “More now than I did a week ago. Look at the girls here – they’re all alone. You took responsibility to find out when I was too chicken too. And….you’re here with me. It says so much about you. Most lads would probably freak, but you…….you’re acting like a man. And, I love you for it. I couldn’t go through this alone.”

Mark didn’t think she could’ve said anything more precious to him. Those words made him feel like a man, when he was feeling like a loser. He leaned in and kissed the top of her head, as the girls in the waiting room with them looked at Tara with envy.

“I love you too, Tara. We’ll get through this - together.”

Tara nodded as tears of joy and fear rolled down her face. Their moment was disturbed the the opening of the adjoining door, followed by a voice.

“Tara Spencer?”

Tara whipped her head towards the door to see a pleasant looking nurse. “Yes? That’s me.”

“Come on in, lass….your young man too. Your results are in.”

Chapter 74

Around 5:30 that evening, Sav sat in the easy chair in Tyler’s family room as he gritted his teeth with agitation as Joe kept flipping channels with the remote.

“Dammit, Joe…will you pick a bloody program already! My eyes are bad enough as it is. I’ll be blind by the evening.”

“Tough shit, old man,” Joe bit back. “You plopped your boney bum on the comfy recliner, so I get the remote.”

Sav unreclined the chair and stood up. “Oh for Pete’s sake, Joe….take the damn chair, you whiner, and give me the remote.”

“Too late,” Joe said with a sigh. “Anyway, I’m kinda hoping Ty’s got some unscrambled porn here somewhere.”

Sav rolled his eyes as Joe went through every channel once and then….start again. “For the love of the queen, Joe…..find a soccer game, a comedy…anything. Just…..pick something!”

Joe turned to see Sav’s vein that was almost throbbing on his forehead. “Better watch it, mate. Don’t want to put too much stress on your ticker. Just give me a few minutes to…..”

Joe stopped when he saw Sav lean against the armrest of the couch and put a hand to his chest and rub it, a pained expression crossing his face. Joe dropped the remote on the coffee table and grabbed his arm.

“Sav? Sav, whats wrong? Do you have chestpains? Are you having trouble breathing again? Fuck, let me get Scott.”

As soon as Joe got himself up off the couch, Sav sat in his place and scooped up the remote, giving Joe a sheepish grin.

“Sucker!” Sav teased him.

Now it was Joe’s turn for his vein to pop. “You bloody moron! You fucking little poser! I can’t believe you did that, taking advantage of me like that.”

“Oh, quit the drama Joe. I just couldn’t resist. But, rest assured, I won’t be crying wolf like that again in case it’s the real thing next time.”

“I don’t want to hear about ‘next time’, Sav!” Joe emphatically stated. “There won’t be a ‘next time’!”

Sav twinkled his still-blue eyes at him. “I love you too.”

“Queer!”

“Will you two quit bitching at each other,” Tyler said as he came in the room.

“Bite me Ty,” Joe said as he took the prized recliner.

“Don’t you talk to my son like that” Sav chastised him.

“You can bite me too,” Joe retorted as he reclined all the way back. “Ahhh, Tyler, this chair is heaven. All that’s missing is a dinner tray in front of me. Speaking of which….when are we eating?”

Tyler looked at his watch. “We’re just waiting for Stephanie and Frank and……Mark. He was out with Tara all day. He called from his cell about three hours ago saying they were having lunch outside the city and that he’d be back by 5.”

“He’s in love, that one,” Sav grinned. “That Tara’s seemed to tame him a bit. Before she came along, Mark’s eyes roved all over the place.”

“Please, dad,” Tyler jested. “Lasses have been scratching at our front door ever since he turned 13 and hit puberty! And if they weren’t sniffing after Mark, they were after Trevor.”

“Yeah, but it seems as if they’ve both met their matches in these two lasses,” Joe added. “Can’t blame them. They’re both lovely with great racks!”

Sav rolled his eyes towards Joe. “You know Joe……..nevermind! I give up!”

“Amen!” Joe replied, as he closed his eyes. “Now I can have some peace.”

Just then Tyler put his ear out. “That’s the garage door. Mark’s back.”

Tyler left his father and father-in-law to go out into the kitchen. The door adjoining the mudroom opened and Mark walked in. “’bout time, lad. Where’ve you been?”

Mark took his coat off as he saw Scott come into the kitchen as well. He flashed his eyes to his uncle before answering his father. “Well, Tara and I had lunch about 2:30 and we just got caught up talking about stuff. Is everyone here?”

“Just waiting for Stephanie and Frank, whom I think just pulled up now,” Tyler said as he left to go to the front door.

Scott then approached his nephew as everyone else behind them were busying about. “Well?”

Mark sighed a bit before flashing a gorgeous grin full of relief and shaking his head ‘no’.

Scott, too, let out a held breath, thankful that his nephew was spared something that he just wasn’t ready for.

Just then, Stephanie and Frank made their entrance, along with Grace, Chelsea, Abby and Paige twittering behind them. Mark grinned at her.

“You supermodels sure know how to cause a commotion when you make an entrance,” he jested.

Stephanie waved him off. “Its not my entrance that’s causing a commotion, Markey-Mark. “I’m pregnant again – 3 ½ months along and everythings safe and sound.”

Mark smiled as Frank walked up to him. “I’m going to be a father,” he said in his smooth, Italian accent. “What do you think of that?”

Mark eyed his uncle Scott before looking at Frank. “Better you than me!”

Chapter 75

Scott and Chelsea came home after seeing Stephanie and Frank off to their hotel. Scott saw Trevor’s Pathfinder in the garage and was glad that he was home.

“I’m just gonna go downstairs and let Trevor know we’re home,” Scott said to Chelsea.

“Okay. I’m gonna get changed and fall right into bed. I’m bone tired.”

Scott nuzzled her neck kiddingly. “Too tired to wait up for me?”

Chelsea grinned as his stubble tickled her neck, giving her gooseflesh. “Never!”

Scott smacked her bottom before going downstairs to the family room. Trevor was sprawled on the couch in Old Navy pajama bottoms and a white t-shirt. The floor below him was littered with used Kleenex and a bottle of Nyquil restd on the coffee table. He looked up when he saw his father come downstairs.

“Aye dad…a…a….achoo!”

“Bless you,” Scott replied. “Guess that cold’s getting worse.”

“I feel like bloody crap! I gotta kick this before the game Tuesday.”

“Trevor, if you’re sick, you can’t play.”

“I have to dad,” he protested. “I don’t want to miss one game. This year is so important. If I can’t play because of a stupid cold than I’m a sissy.”

Scott grinned over his son’s persistance and dedication to his sport. He frowned upon the bottle of Nyquil on the coffee table. “Uh…how much of that did you take Trevor?”

Trevor looked at the Nyquil. “That? Oh, uh….I don’t know. I think I had two capfuls. Maybe three. About ten minutes ago.”

“You’ll be out cold soon. Trevor, that was way too much. Didn’t you read the directions?”

“What for? Besides, that my nurses responsibility, who didn’t come over tonight because she doesn’t want to get sick.”

“Can’t blame Emily for that,” Scott said. “Um…speaking of which, do….do you mind if I say something Trevor.”

The Nyquil was beginning to kick in as Trevor fought to keep his eyes open. “Uh…yeah dad,” he slurred a bit. “What?”

“You like Emily a lot, don’t you?”

Trevor grinned in his medicated state. “Mmm, yeah! I love her. She’s totally hot.”

Scott couldn’t hold back his laughter. “But, you do care about her, right?”

“Mmmm, yeah…..a lot. She’s reeeeeeeeeal special.”

“Well, I’m not asking you anything directly Trevor, but instead, I’m just gonna say this once and that’s it. I….I just want to make sure that you and Emily are…..careful, that’s it. I’m going to bed.”

As Scott got up after delivering that awkward message, Trevor began to snicker.

“Ohhhh, we’re careful dad,” he drunkenly giggled. “We use condoms alllllll the time. Mmmmmm…….zzzzzzzzzzz”?

That was the last thing Scott heard before Trevor fell into a deep sleep, but not before getting more information than he wanted. Well, maybe it’s the only way to find out about your kids – drug them with cold medicine. He’d be naïve to think that Trevor and Emily were innocent, since they’ve been together since the summer, but to actually hear his son confess it, even under the influence of antihistimines, was tough to take. His only solace was that they were, indeed careful.

Scott’s mind was put at ease as he went up to bed, grinning when he remembered his wife waiting for him. However, all he found was Chelsea fast asleep.

“So much for a quick shag,” he mumbled to himself as he got undressed and fell into bed beside his wife. As soon as he closed his eyes, he felt Chelsea roll on top of him and straddle him.

“Fooled ya!”

Chapter 76

Grace rubbed the small of her back after spending almost an hour cleaning up after everyone left. Tyler had come downstairs to see what was keeping her, just in time to see her take the vacuum cleaner out.

“What are you doing, woman?”

Grace rolled exasperated eyes at her husband. “I have a vacuum cleaner in my hands and a rug under my feet. Figure it out!”

“Sassy wench,” Ty murmured. “Grace, put that away. The cleaning people come tomorrow. You’ve done enough tonight.”

“My back is kind of sore,” Grace said rubbing it.

Tyler pulled her away from the vacuum cleaner. “Upstairs. Go take a nice hot shower, then I’ll rub your back in bed.”

“Who can say no to that!” Grace said as she ascended the stairs.

As Grace went in the shower, Tyler remembered something that he wanted to give to Mark. He knocked on his bedroom door then entered to find Mark lying on his stomach in bed watching tv.

“Aye, just wanted to give you this that I got this afternoon,” Tyler said, tossing his son a CD.

Mark looked at it. It was Fusion’s debut CD. “Aw, thanks dad! I bought this when it came out, then like a stupid wanker, lent it to Wesley who left it in the sun. This was a mega CD.”

“Yeah, well, I remember you saying you had it and lost it or something. I met with their producers at the London studio yesterday and today. They’re gonna begin recording their second album next week. Should be interesting.”

“Why?”

“Well, from what I hear along the grapevine, one of the founding members is a major pain in the arse to work with. He and his brother, who plays guitar, put the group together. The brother’s a likable chap, so I’m told, but the other guy…….”

“……Zak Silver, the drummer,” Mark filled in. “Yeah, I heard about him. He’s a major asshole……uh…..pain. Sorry.”

Tyler frowned a bit at Mark’s language before continuing. “Well, unfortunately, you’re right. The guys who produced their debut album don’t want anything to do with the second album because of Zak’s outbursts. His brother, Rob, the guitarist, is just hoping that these new producers can recapture their sound that made their debut a success.”

“Yeah, me too,” Mark said. “I’ve got two of these songs programmed into my tape machine downstairs before I lent it to Wes. If anything, Zak is a mega drummer.”

“Well, we’ll see,” Tyler said, before looking around Mark’s room. He squinted and shook his head. “Mark, how’s about cleaning up a bit in here. Your mother does enough that she doesn’t have to be your maid.”

Tyler bent down to pick Mark’s leather jacket off the floor. “Uh, this was an expensive Christmas present lad. What’s it doing on the floor…..”

Just as Tyler picked it up, pamphlets on teenage pregnancy, contraception, along with a strip of condoms, fell out of the pocket.

Chapter 77

Mark stared at the pamphlets and condoms that fell out of his jacket pocket and onto his bedroom floor. He briefly met his father’s questioning eyes before he squeezed his own shut and turned away.

Tyler bent down and scooped the items up off the floor then sat down on the edge of Mark’s bed.

“Is there something you need to tell me Mark?”

“No,” Mark mumbled embarrassedly. “Well, not anymore.”

“Not anymore? What does that mean?”

Mark sat with his head down, not wanting to look at his father. But Tyler wouldn’t relent.

“Mark, listen lad….you can tell me anything. I mean that. Are you…….is Tara….?”

“No, dad, she isn’t,” he quickly said.

“But, you thought she may be?”

Mark only nodded.

“Is this where you were all afternoon?”

“Yeah,” Mark replied. “I picked her up so she could get a blood test. There’s a clinic outside the city. We had to find out for certain. When the test came back negative, one of the counselors sat us down and talked to us about safe sex and stuff and gave us those.”

Tyler was relieved that Tara wasn’t pregnant, but was concerned about his son. “Mark, you could’ve come to me….”

“Dad, there was no reason to tell you anything because we didn’t know if there was anything to tell. We needed to find out first. We…..it was only one time that we didn’t use……..n…nevermind, you know what I mean. We made a big mistake and we regretted it.”

Tyler knew that his son paid the price for his irresponsibility. He had the thought of possibly being a teenage father instilled in him and it frightened him. That, in itself, is enough to steer him away from making anymore mistakes.

“Mark, its okay. I’m not mad. Concerned, but not mad. If anything, I’m proud that you took matters into your own hands to find out. And, you stood by Tara. I’m sorry you had to go through that, but, well…….I’m sure you learned your lesson. You don’t need me hounding you, however, I can’t help but worry and be concerned about you being safe and responsible. You’re almost 18 with your life ahead of you and you don’t need a careless moment tying you down.”

Mark met his father’s eyes for the first time. “You’re proud of me?”

Tyler smiled. “Very much. Since the day you were born. And my pride hasn’t waivered. Never will. Always remember that, lad.”

Mark smiled with relief. “Thanks dad – for not flipping out.”

Tyler grinned a little wickedly. “Yeah, well I’d be a hypocrit if I did. You didn’t do anything different than I did at your age.”

Mark perked up a bit. “Yeah? Was it mum…or some other lass? No…wait! If its mum, I don’t want to know. I just can’t picture…..”

“Oh stuff it, lad,” Tyler shot back. “And no, it wasn’t your mum.”

“But….I thought you guys have been together since you were teenagers?”

Tyler sighed a bit, remembering a time so long ago. “Well, we officially began dating right after I turned 17 and your mum turned 15. But…..well…..that summer, we all went out to California for Rory’s wedding. His future wife’s 19 year old niece was there and…………”

Tyler rolled his eyes to finish what he couldn’t say with words. Mark’s mouth dropped as he caught on. “You mean….you and her? While you were dating mum? While she was there?”

“Yes, yes and….yes,” Tyler replied sheepishly. “It was a mistake, a big, big mistake, but this lass caught me at a weak moment and, well, I was only 17 and not really in a position to turn something like that down. But, I was filled with guilt afterwards.”

“Did mum ever find out?”

“Unfortunatley she did, much later on. Right before I left for university to be exact. She broke up with me right before that, but after the band began to take off, we got back together. Only to break up again before we left on our first official tour.”

“Why’d you break up the second time?” Mark asked.

Tyler remembered as clear as day the hell that broke loose at his father’s house when he found out that Scott had gotten Grace pregnant. He remembered the cruel words he flung at his brother and at Grace.

“Well, let just say that your father had his moron moments,” Tyler offered as an answer. “The important thing is, I got your mother back and that’s all that matters. Speaking of your mother, my hands have a date with her sore back.”

Tyler stood up and looked down at Mark. “I’m just glad that you and Tara are okay. I know you care about her a lot and it shows.”

“I do, dad. And….thanks again. G’night.”

“’night, lad.”

Tyler shut the bedroom door behind him and let out a much relieved breath. “Oh Lord, that was close,” he thought, but knew that Mark learned his lesson from this scare.

He went into his bedroom to find Grace in bed, under the covers, lying on her stomach.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” she said with a wicked smile.

Tyler threw back the covers and gasped to find her gloriously naked.

“I’ve decided on a full body massage. Back and front, if you please!”

Tyler straddled his wife’s nude body and flipped her on her back. “I’ll start with the front first, which means I may not even make it to the back!”

Chapter 78

Two months later

April, 2044

It was a beautiful, spring Saturday and an early morning soccer practice was in session in preparation for a huge game on Tuesday. The winner would go the the championship semi-finals and the loser would go home.

Trevor was the first one to practice so he could work on drills with the goalie coach. The coach advanced towards him on the field, kicking the ball at him from all angles. Trevor never let one get by him.

When the rest of the players arrived, Trevor was tested with double and triple teams, which sharpened his ability to defend the left, center and right side of the goal simultaneously. The team they were facing on Tuesday had brilliant goal line strategy using as many as four players to set up goals. Trevor had to be prepared to have them come at him from all angles.

After practice, he went home to shower. His father was on call and his mum was out on errands all day. No sooner than he walked into the kitchen from the garage, the doorbell rang. He opened the door and was pleasantly surprised to find Emily.

“Aye luv, I just got home.”

Emily eyed him as she walked. “Mmm, I can tell. Didn’t think a sweaty lad could look so sexy. Anyway, mum let me take the car to do some errands. I figured I’d drop by to see if you got home yet.”

Trevor blushed and realized that he had the house all to himself. “Um, how many errands do you have to do? I mean, can you stay a bit?”

“Sure, probably for only an hour thought.”

“Great! Let me hop in the shower really quick. You can wait in my room if you’d like. My um…parents are out.

Emily flashed a shy grin as she followed him up the stairs. Ten minutes later, Trevor came out of the shower, realizing that he hadn’t brought any clothes in with him. He towel dried his hair and ran his fingers through it before wrapping the towel around his waist. He went into his bedroom to find Emily lying on his bed on her stomach flipping through a soccer magazine. She looked up at his barely naked damp body and her eyes gleamed.

Trevor caught her look and became very warm. “Uh, I forgot to bring clothes in with me.”

“Don’t be shy Trev, I mean…..we have seen each other naked before.”

Just the though of Emily’s tight naked body was causing a reaction behind his towel.

“Speaking of which, you don’t need to get dressed so fast on my account,” Emily cooed as she sat up and crooked her finger at him.

Trevor’s body was fully aroused now at the thought of what Emily had in mind. He walked towards her and watched her eyes instantly wander down to what was tenting his towel. She hooked her finger at the waist of the towel and looked up at him with naughty eyes.

“Hmm, someone’s awfully happy,” she mused.

“No, someone’s awfully horny,” Trevor corrected her.

Emily ran her hand along his flat, hard midsection and licked her lips. “Hmm, maybe I can help you out a bit.”

Trevor’s breathing was becoming a bit rapid. “Yeah? How so?”

“Oh….,” she drawled as her eyes continued to drink in his tall, lean physique. “….I thought maybe I’d try out a little something I read in a magazine when I was babysitting last week.”

Trevor was about to die of excitement. “Yeah? What’s that luv?”

Emily’s finger pulled at the towel, causing it to drop to the floor. She then glanced up at Trevor with liquid, topaz eyes. “This,” she answered with a whisper before bending her head to lick him.

Trevor’s knees almost buckled beneath him. “Holy shit, Em!” he gasped.

Emily then got up and pushed him down on his back. “Don’t want you collapsing on me,” she said as she crawled beside him. “Now, I’ve never done this before so let me know if I’m doing something wrong.”

Trevor could care less if she bit him right now. He was in too much ecstasy to care. Emily innocently and naively swirled her tongue around and up and down his erection as her soft hand caressed his inner thighs. Trevor’s breathing was getting more labored while his groans were getting louder.

“Let me know if my teeth scrape you,” Emily whispered.

“What?” Trevor barely acknowledged before he almost came off the bed.

“Bloody fucking hell!” he screamed as Emily’s tight, wet mouth took him all the way in. “Jesus….Em…..oh….God, don’t stop! Don’t bloody stop!”

Emily continued to suck him with long, even strokes, but not for long. The spontanaeity of the act, combined with Trevor’s 17 year old hormones, wouldn’t let him last.

“Em….Em…I’m….I’m gonna come. Now!”

Emily pulled back a bit and took what she could into her mouth. Being her first time, she wasn’t able to take it all the way. She kept stroking him with her hand until he was depleted.

She straightened up and took his towel off the floor and wiped her mouth and hand before wiping the remnants of his orgasm off his stomach.

“Was that okay?”

“Okay?” Trevor questioned, still panting. “That was bloody fantastic. I think I’ll get you a subscription to that magazine. Thank you luv. That was an incredible surprise.”

Just then they heard a faint buzzing sound coming from under the house. Trevor’s eyes flew open.

“Shit, that’s the garage door opener. Someone’s home!”

Emily flew off the bed and bounded down the stairs to the kitchen. She got to the table just in time to see Scott walk in through the garage door.

“Hello Dr. Savage,” Emily grinned.

Scott smiled back. “Hello lass. I was wondering who’s car that was out there.”

“Oh, I’m running errands today and I thought I’d stop by and see Trevor when he got home from practice. I think he’s finishing his shower.”

No sooner than she said that, Trevor came down the stairs and into the kitchen dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, his face still showing signs of his surprise blow job.

“Dad? What are you doing home?”

“Came home for lunch. Whats with you lad? You look like the cat who got the cream.”

Trevor softly snickered then looked at Emily. “More like the other way around,” he whispered.

“Hmm?” Scott asked.

“Nothing!”

Chapter 79

The following Tuesday, on a very balmy April afternoon, Westfield didn’t even have to break a sweat as they easily made the semi-finals with a 5-0 win. Mark scored two goals, Sean and Wesley one a piece and Kyle Foster added to the embarrassment by scoring the last one with less than two minutes remaining.

But it was Trevor who shined the brightest. Their opponent, Sherburn High School, found themselves at Westfield’s goal around twenty times during the course of the game, and couldn’t get in once. Trevor’s superb goaltending, concentration and agility helped to seal the shutout.

In the stands, a very proud Tyler and Scott sat on either side of an even prouder Joe and Sav who thanked God every day for allowing them to live this long to see their grandsons play. It was a true joy to their lives that made them swell from within.

Two rows behind them, Emily, Tara, Morgan, Jessica and Brenda were squealing over their respective lads’ performance on the field today as they also silently giggled how they’d ‘reward’ each one of them tonight.

After the game, the coach gave the lads a hearty congratulations in the locker room, along with a pep talk on how crucial they next two playoff games will be.

Outside, Tyler, Scott, Joe and Sav waited outside so they could congratulate them before the lads went out for the mandatory pizza celebration with their girlfriends. As they were standing around, a man with a small briefcase and clipboard was leaning against the car next to Tyler’s Mercedes SUV. Joe noticed him too and slowly made his way over to the man.

“You a scout, young chap?”

The man looked up and smiled at the elderly gentleman. “Now why would you think that?” he mused.

“Aw, c’mon, you can tell me,” Joe pressed. “What’cha got written down there?”

Tyler came over and took Joe’s arm. “Don’t bother the man, dad,” Tyler said, before looking at the man. “Excuse my father in law, he’s not exactly the shy type.”

“Oh, not a problem,” the man said. “Just assessing the talent, is all. All those Westfield lads who scored today are mega players. However….their goalie……well……”

Scott and Sav joined them when he heard them talking about Westfield’s goalie. “You mean…Trevor Savage?” Scott asked.

“Yes, he’s the one,” the man said. “All I can say is………he’s worth watching.”

“That’s all you can tell us?” Joe half-shouted. “C’mon, just a little……”

“Uncle Joe, leave him alone,” Scott said. “And…not a word of this to Trevor. I don’t want any thoughts put in his head that’ll distract him from the championship game, got it?”

“Why are you directing that at me?”

“Because you have the biggest mouth, Joe,” Sav answered.

The man looked at Scott. “You know this Trevor?”

Scott smiled so wide that he thought his face would split. “He’s my son.”

All the man did was smile and nod his head before heading back to his car.

Just then, Mark and Trevor came outside, followed by Sean, Wesley and Kyle. The other three lads went over to Morgan, Jessica and Brenda respectively to receive hearty kisses of congratulations.

“See you at the pizza place mates,” Wesley called over.

“Be there in a few,” Mark called back, before turning to his dad. “Well?”

“Brilliant, lad. Just brilliant. Both of you.”

Joe put an arm around each of his grandsons. “Being able to be here and see this is worth my extra time on this earth alone,” he said.

“I second that,” Sav said. “I’m just glad the weather held out. And, I hope it holds out till the championship. I missed it last year and I’m not gonna miss it this year.”

“Aw, grandpa, you don’t know if we’re gonna make it that far again,” Trevor humbly said.

“Bet your ass, you will,” Joe stated. “The way you lads are playing. Why, that chap over there…..”

Joe was cut off by Tyler loudly clearing his throat.

“Well, that didn’t last long,” Sav said with sarcasm.

“What?” Trevor said, looking around. “What chap? Was…was it a scout?”

“Uh…uh, no lad,” Joe stammered, trying to save himself. “Actually, it was a fan of Sherburn, that’s how good you lads played.”

Scott took a deep sigh of relief as Trevor and Mark seemed to have bought Joe’s lie.

Suddenly, Emily and Tara joined them, each giving Trevor and Mark a kiss. Joe held his arms out to Tara.

“Aye, don’t I get one?”

“You didn’t do anything to deserve a kiss, Joe,” Sav snarled at him. “Stop fishing for affection, will ya?”

“Oh, that’s okay,” Tara said as she kissed Joe on the cheek. “How are you, grandpa Joe?”

“Better now,” Joe replied with a smirk.

“And, not to leave you out,” Tara said, giving Sav a kiss too. Sav then gave Joe an arrogant look. “See! And I didn’t have to ask!”

“Still trying to upstage me after all these years,” Joe huffed.

“Alright, this isn’t a contest you two,” Tyler said. “Why don’t you lads head on out for pizza. We’ll see you at home later.”

“Thanks dad,” Mark said, before Tyler hugged him. “I’m so proud of you Mark.”

Scott, too, gave Trevor a hug. “You were bloody brilliant, Trevor. You’re gonna make it lad, don’t you worry.”

Trevor and Mark then took Emily and Tara’s hand and took off to their vehicles while the older men piled into Tyler’s Mercedes SUV. Trevor was floating on a cloud, but Mark was beaming.

Today was enough for him to decide what he wanted to do with his life.

Chapter 80

After pizza, Mark took Tara for a ride so they could be alone a bit before taking her home. They went to the soccer park just as dusk was falling over Sheffield. No sooner did they park were they all over each other – hands were furiously fighting for any exposed skin as they drove their tongues inside each other’s mouth.

Tara had unzipped her jersey top and unfastened her front clasp bra and leaned back. Mark practically lunged over the center console to get his hands on her breasts and was rewarded with gear shift in his right side.

“Ow! Bloody hell,” he spat as he rubbed his right side.

“Problem?” Tara mused as she lay there with her upper half bared.

“Other than a puncture wound in my side and a stiff dick, no,” Mark replied with a leer.

Tara sat up and pulled her jersey together. “I don’t think this is gonna work up here.”

Mark opened the center console and frowned. “I don’t think this is gonna work at all,” he groaned. “I don’t have a condom.”

That was enough to make Tara zip up for good. “Guess that settles it. I’m not in the mood for another trip to the clinic.”

Mark slammed the console top down. “Damn!”

Tara leaned over and stroked his face. “Calm down, sweetie. You’ve been in a good mood all night. Exceptionally good – like you’re pumped about more than just the win today.”

Mark remembered his decision and, even though he wanted to keep it to himself till the end of the season, he felt confident telling Tara.

“Well, I’m feeling a lot better about my future since I’ve made a decision.”

Tara sat up with interest. “You did? What?”

“Soccer, what else? I mean, I’ve played all my life. I’m good at it. Not as good as Trev, but I think good enough to be considered. I’m just gonna really apply myself during this playoff run since that’s when the scouts come out and…..”

Mark cut off when he noticed Tara’s concerned face. “What? You’re not happy for me?”

“Its not that Mark,” she replied. “I want you to do what makes you happy, but is soccer truly it?”

“Of course it is! Why would I lie?”

“I’m not saying your lying to me, Mark, but you may be lying to yourself,” Tara reasoned. “Mark, since I’ve known you, you’ve never once spoke about wanting to play pro. Yes, you love to play and you’re fab, but your enthusiasm ends there. Trevor is different. You’ve told me that he’s been kicking a soccer ball since he was probably old enough to walk and has dreamed of playing pro for years. You just made this decision suddenly. If its what you really and truly want to do and you have a passion for it, then by all means, I support you. But Mark…..don’t do it because you think you have no other options and soccer is your last resort.”

Mark was dumbfounded that Tara was able to see right through him. His mouth dropped open before he squeezed his eyes shut and let his head fall back against the headrest.

“Crikey,” he mumbled.

“Is that what you were thinking, Mark?”

Mark blew out a frustrated breath. “Tara, you don’t understand. You know what you want to do, I don’t.”

“Yet!” Tara stresed. “You don’t know yet. Mark, not every kid knows what they want to do after high school. I just happen to like to draw and design clothes, so I’m gonna perfect that. You could apply to a local school if you want.”

“Its too late for me to apply for the fall semester,” Mark said dejectedly. “Plus, even if I did go, what do I do?”

“Talk to the guidance counselor at school. Talk to your parents. Hell, I’ll help you come up with something. Mark, I love you and I want to see you happy. I just don’t want you doing something because you think you’ve got no other choice.”

Mark turned and looked at her, disbelieving how lucky he was to have such a wonderful, understanding lass. Who loved him.

“I love you too, Tara. I’ll…..think about it, but I’m not ruling soccer out. Now…as for other options…what do you suggest for this since we have no condom?”

Mark stressed his question by taking Tara’s hand and placing it on his fly. She responded by squeezing him as she watched the pleasure wash over his face. She then had him unbuttoned and unzipped in a flash.

“I’m sure I can come up with something,” she purred against his lips before her head dipped down to make him forget about his troubles.

Chapter 81

A few days later, Tyler took the opportunity to go visit his parents. He was surprised to find Abby and Joe there as well. He found his mum and Abby sitting on the deck off the kitchen enjoying tea on a warm afternoon.

“Aye you two,” Tyler mused. “Talking about young chaps?”

“Aye lad,” Paige replied as her face lit up upon seeing her son. “What another nice surprise. Abby and Joe just dropped over. We’re enjoying this lovely weather while the other two hide out inside.”

Tyler laughed. “Nothing ever changes. After all these years, you still find yourselves at each other’s doorsteps. Well, let me go in and say hello so you gals can talk dirty.”

“Thanks, we’d hate to make you blush lad,” Abby said with a naughty tone.

Tyler went inside and was aghast to find Joe and Sav sitting side by side in the family room going through photo albums. They both looked up when Tyler entered.

“Aye, look what crept in,” Joe stated

Tyler looked out the window and up at the sky.

“Looking for something Ty?” Sav asked.

“Uh, yeah. A raincloud, perhaps. You two, sitting in here all nice and civil, especially next to each other, only means that we’re in for one hell of a storm.”

“You know, you’re not too old to have that smart mouth slapped,” Sav said.

Tyler took a seat next to them and looked at the photo albums. They were pictures of when he, Scott and Grace were children over the course of several years. There were pictures from school, parties, graduation, their weddings and especially pictures from the hospital when Mark, Trevor and Abby were born.

“What brought on this trip down memory lane?”

“Well, the fact that our children and grandchildren are so extrodinary is the only thing we agree on, we decided to peruse the years,” Joe said.

They came upon a picture of Chelsea lying in the hospital bed with a newborn Trevor in her arms. Beside her was Scott and 9 year old Stephanie.

“Wow, even at 9 Stephanie was photogenic,” Sav marveled.

“Scott was so ecstatic that day,” Tyler reminisced. “He missed out on the first 6 years of Stephanie’s life that when Trevor was born, he didn’t know what to expect.”

“And you felt the same exact thing when Mark came along two months later,” Joe reminded him.

Tyler grinned with agreement. “Yeah, you’re right. I mean, every man wants a son, I’m sure. I just didn’t expect that feeling to be so……damn, I still don’t have a word for it.”

“And you never will,” Sav said. “I was speechless when you and Scott were born.”

“Yet you found a way to get over that affliction,” Joe joked.

“Sorry dad,” Tyler laughed. “I saw that coming a mile away.”

“That’s okay,” Sav said, waving off Joe’s little dig. “I’m just glad I’m alive to be made fun of.”

Sav looked at Joe with sheepish eyes before Joe looked away. “Okay, okay! Don’t get all smarmy on me!”

Sav smirked and turned the page. Tyler craned his head to see what it was and the light left his eyes. It was a picture of him and the band from the last of the five shows they did in California.

“Ha, remember that night Ty,” Sav said. “That was the night that the guy from that other band….what was his name, Jason I think…yeah, he had your amp wires cut and then you found out that he was a closet homosexual.”

“That was a riot,” Joe agreed. “Remember, Ty?”

Tyler had put his head down and rubbed his temples. “Yeah…yeah, I remember,” he whispered.

“Whats wrong, lad?” Sav asked.

Tyler looked up and a mist of tears pricked his blue eyes. “Its….its just that, after all these years, its hard to look at Mark and Randy looking so……alive, especially when they’re dead. Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever accept it. To this day, I kick myself for not going out with them that night.”

“Tyler, stop it!” Sav scolded him. “If you went with them, you could’ve been dead yourself or severely injured like Kevin was.”

“Maybe not, dad,” Tyler retorted. “Maybe I would’ve seen that drunk driver coming at them and warned them to get out of the way. Maybe I would’ve driven home that night and had better reflexes. Maybe…..maybe….”

Tyler put his head down again and shook it back and forth. Joe put a hand on his shoulder. “Tyler, don’t beat yourself up after all these years.”

“I’m not uncle Joe, its…..its just…..its just that I never got to say goodbye. There was no closure. Going to the cemetary doesn’t satisfy that. At least Kevin was with them that night, even though he didn’t know they died until he woke from his coma. I just feel so…..guilty.”

“Don’t,” Sav said. “You’re not to blame, Tyler. And, if they knew, I’m sure they’d feel the same way. That’s how Joe and I feel about Steve. Lord knows we tried everything under the sun to help him, but he still killed himself anyway. We couldn’t help but think that there was something else we could’ve done, but it didn’t matter. We could’ve locked him behind bars, and he still would’ve found a way to drink and destroy himself.”

“Yeah, but Steve chose it, dad,” Tyler said. “Mark and Randy didn’t choose to die.”

“I know lad, but it was an accident, plain and simple. Its hard, but we must move on and take solace in the fact that they’re in a better place.”

Although his father’s words made sense, it did nothing to assuage the heaviness that weighed upon his heart for the last 24 years.

Chapter 82

That afternoon at school, Mark and Trevor were at practice preparing for the first semi-final game. As usual, Trevor was on top of his game as he played with sharp precision at the goal. However, Mark was just the opposite.

He blamed his poor performance on the fact that he hadn’t been feeling well the last two days. His stomach was upset, he felt feverish and he had a nagging pain in his right side, which he figured was from the gear shift in his Jeep the other night when he and Tara were going at it.

He tried fighting it off, thinking it was some 24 hour thing, but it still persisted. It made him feel weak and sluggish, and it showed at practice.

During a timeout, Mark went over to the sidelines to sit down and take some deep breaths to ward off a wave of nausea. Trevor came over and slapped his back.

“Aye, cous…..you alright?”

“Not if you keep jarring me, I won’t be,” Mark gasped as he held his right side. “I’ve been sick to my stomach for a few days and this pain in my side hurts like hell. Tara and I were fooling around in my Jeep and I landed on the gear shift. Probably bruised something inside.”

“Maybe you should go home and take something and rest,” Trevor said. “You don’t want to be sick for the first semi-final.”

“I can’t go home, Trev,” Mark stated. “I need to stay. If I can’t play sick, then I don’t deserve to play at all. I’m not some sissy lad. Hell, you played with a cold last month! Just give me a moment and it’ll pass. I’ll be fine.”

“If you say so,” Trevor said as he heard the coach call everyone in a circle.

“Okay, lads, listen up,” the coach rallied. “Ironically, our first opponant is Bootham, who we beat in the championship last year. No doubt they’re gonna be out for revenge. They posted a slightly better record than us and they’re much sharper this year, so we’ve got to be on our best if we want any chance of defending out title. I want you lads to go out on that field like you own it! Like the champs that you are and not give into any kind of intimidation, you got me?”

All the lads shouted and high-fived each other in agreement as they got themselves pumped up by their coache’s words. However, their loud cheering drowned out the sound of Mark crying out in pain before he collapsed to the ground.