Chapter - 7

The weeks have flown by so fast as Christmas is quickly approaching us. I really must say the new Star Wars was AMAZING! Dinner was great too, but the movie was my favorite part! I'm really glad they kept all of the original characters in it, but I don't want to say too much as some of you may not have seen it yet! Matt and my mother have gotten very serious in their relationship, and I really think he's gonna pop the big question soon! Adam and I have really grown to like him, and we really want him to be a part of our family, but of course that's for Matt and our mother to decide. After Dinner and the movie, Matt came home with us and helped us decorate our house for Christmas. Adam and I decorated the tree and the inside of the house, while Mom and Matt decorated the outside and hung the lights up on the house. I really must say I haven't seen Mom so happy in a long time. After everything has been decorated, Mom made us all her famous hot cocoa, and we all sit at the table just chatting away about the day, and how far we have all came since we moved to Newcrest.

"How's your shopping with Shannon been coming along?" Mom asks me. "It's been going great! I have almost all of my Christmas shopping done. I only have Shannon and Blaire left to buy gifts for, which I can get tomorrow while they're off doing their own thing," I reply as I sip my hot cocoa. "That's great honey. I have mine all done, and I can't wait to see the expression on your faces when you all open your gifts," she tells us with a smile. "I especially can't wait until you open yours darling. I think you're really gonna love it," Matt tells her. "What is it?" Mom asks him as she nudges his arm. With a smirk, Matt replies, "Ah, ah, ah. Now if I were to tell you it wouldn't be a surprise now would it?" "Oh, I guess not. You're such a tease!" Mom replies. "Oh! Before I forget, what do you say Matt joins us for Christmas?" Mom asks Adam and I. "Mom, do you really need to ask that? You know we really like him and consider him a part of the family. Of course we would love him to be here with us for Christmas." I tell her. Her eyes light up with cheer as she turns to Matt and tells him that Christmas dinner will be at six O'clock. He smiles in return and tells her that he will be here and kisses her tenderly. Adam and I glance at one another with a smile, and decide that we think it's best if we leave them alone for a while and head up to our rooms.

The following day, Camryn gets a call from her mother, Vicki who tells her that she's going to be paying us a visit for Christmas. "That would be great Mom! I really have someone that I would love for you to meet, and I can't wait for you to meet him!" Camryn tells her excitedly. "Is there a new man in your life that you have failed to tell your own mother about?" Vicki asks curiously. "Yes, well we have been dating for quite some time, and the kids just love him, and I'm sure you will love him too. I didn't tell anyone until our relationship got serious. He's so sweet, kind, caring, and puts us above his own needs," Camryn says. "So when do your father and I get to meet this mystery man of yours?" Vicki asks. "Well actually, you will get to meet him here on Christmas Day," Camryn replies. "Well, I can't wait to meet the guy who stole my daughter's heart. We'll see you on Christmas Day sweetheart. I can't wait to see you and those grand babies of mine!" Vicki tells her. "I can't wait either Mom! Well I still have so much to do here, and I really need to get to work. I love you and I can't wait to see you all!" Camryn tells her. They say their goodbyes, and Camryn gently closes her phone and heads off to work.

Two weeks later......

Christmas is finally here, and I luckily finished my shopping last night.  The clock which sits on the mantle of the fireplace chimes 5:45pm, and the doorbell chimes a joyful tune. "I got it," I call out as I open the door to find Matt on the other side. "Matt, hello. Won't you come in?" I ask him. He then steps inside and I close the door behind him. "Merry Christmas," I tell him as I give him a friendly hug. "Merry Christmas my dear," he replies. "Where's your mother?" he whispers. "She's in the kitchen tending to dinner," I whisper in return. "Why are we whispering?" I ask. "I have her Christmas present, but if she wants it, she will have to find it," he whispers as he holds out a small box wrapped in Christmas paper. "For something that small, I have just the right hiding place," I tell him and lead him to the Christmas tree. "You can hide it in the branches, she'll never think to look for it there," I tell him with a smile. "That's a great idea! Now why didn't I think of that?" he chuckles. He places the small box in the thick branches of the tree as Adam enters the room. "Hey guys, what's going on?" he asks. "Just hiding your mothers Christmas gift. I really hope she likes it," Matt tells him. "Are you kidding? Mom loves you, and I'm sure she'll love anything you got for her," Adam replies. "Honey was that Matt at the door,?" Mom calls out. "Yes Mom. Adam and I are sitting in the living room with him," I reply. Mom then says that the turkey is done and that I need to put the last pie into the oven, and I head into the kitchen to bake the remanding pie sitting on the counter.

Twenty minutes later, as I pull the apple pie out of the oven, the doorbell chimes again. "I got it! I know you all are busy in the kitchen," Adam yells. "It's probably your Grandma Vicki. Just show them into the living room honey," Mom yells back to Adam. He turns the door knob and pulls the door open. Only to his surprise it isn't our Grandma Vicki who is on the opposite side of the door, but our Grandma Emily is standing there smiling With Grandpa Christian, Aunt Allison, Uncle Nick, Uncle Kevin, Aunt Carrie, and Aunt Morgan behind her. Adam stands frozen in his place unsure of what to say or do. "Well aren't you going to invite us in?" Emily asks. "Uh.... Yeah, sorry. Come on in. Please take a seat in the living room. I'll let Mom know that you're here," he tells them. "Sure thing Kiddo," Grandpa Christian replies. Adam rushes into the kitchen, nearly knocking me and the pies I have in my hands onto the floor. "Mph! Adam! Watch what the hell you're doing!" I scold. Gritting his teeth he says, "Sorry Sis!" "Mom do we have other guests you didn't tell us about?" he asks. "No, just your Grandma Vicki, Grandpa Harrison, Uncle Steven, and Aunt Brianna. Why do you ask?" Mom asks curiously. "Well ummm....... Grandma Emily and the rest of the family are here," Adam explains. "Ugh! I didn't plan for this! The last time we spoke was after your father passed away, I'm sure they aren't here on the best of terms. Faith, can you finish setting the table? Keep your brother occupied too, the two of you don't need to be in this mess," Mom whispers. I give a little nod and tell her that it's no problem, and she heads into the living room.

Upon entering the living room, Camryn finds Mr. and Mrs. Parker standing by the mantle of the fire place, and the others had made themselves at home on the couch. Camryn puts on a happy face as she approaches them and says, "Mr. and Mrs. Parker, how nice to see you! What brings you all the way to Newcrest?" "Why, Camryn Parker, is that you? You look stunning!" Emily replies. "Thank you Mrs. Parker, but really what brings you here?" Camryn asks curiously. "Now Camryn, is that anyway to speak to your family? You know very well that I came here to see my grandchildren! Those two children in there are the only family of Jake's. Just where is your family Camryn? You have a father who cheats on your mother, gets your stepmother pregnant, and walks out on your mother. He didn't care about how it would make you feel, or how heartbroken Vicki was when she found out not only was your father married, but she was pregnant too. Like I said, just where is your family?" Emily yells. "My family? My family is here is Newcrest! I don't know what you get out of this, but you're not the person Jake described to me all of those years! I was too young to remember what happened between my mother, father, and stepmother, but I haven't seen my biological mother since I was really young. As far as I'm concerned, Vicki is my mother and has always treated me like one! I suggest that you just leave, my mother and father should be here soon, and I'm sure they won't like the way you're talking to me right now! Boy was Jake ever wrong about you! He used to tell me how loving and kind his mother was. Hell you even had me fooled! Just because I was going through depression due to my husband passing away, you wanted to take the kids from me. Well I have news for you old hag! MY kids will be staying right here with me, End of story!" Camryn shouts. "Why I never! I have been nothing but good to you and this is the thanks I get! I told Jake to stay away from you, and that you were no good! After all the crap your daddy put my dear friend Vicki through, I knew you were no good! But Jake just wouldn't listen to me, he just had to be with you. Now he's dead and you're off living the good life with HIS money! I just won't allow that!" Emily yells angrily. "Emily.... darling I think that's enough. Lets go huh?" Christian tells her calmly. "Excuse me! Just who are you to tell me when it's enough and when we should go!" Emily yells at him.

As the yelling and screaming match in the living room continues, the doorbell chimes again, and I find Grandma Vicki, Grandpa Harrison, and my aunt Brianna and uncle Steven on the opposite side of the door this time. "Grandma! Grandpa!" I shout hugging them tightly. "Mom is in the living room with the rest of the guests," I tell her. Clearly overhearing everything that is being said she says, "I think I can find my way to the living room. Just keep your brother occupied." Aunt Brianna and Uncle Steven follow me back into the kitchen, as Grandma and Grandpa find their way into the living room. Emily smiles and says, "Why Vicki, isn't this a nice surprise." Turning to Harrison, she clears her throat and says a snobby hello to Him. "Just what brings you to my daughter's home?" Vicki asks Emily. Emily points her nose in the air snobbishly and says, "These are my grandchildren too, and I can see them whenever I would like. After all, they are the only children Jake had. If Jake would have listened to me years ago, and stayed away from that little tramp daughter of yours, none of this would be happening right now, and my dear Jake would still be alive today! But he wouldn't listen. All he talked about was joining the military to make Camryn and his children proud by doing so." Vicki clenches her fists as she yells, "How DARE YOU!! Camryn has done nothing wrong and you just think you can come into her home and start a war? She loved Jake just as much as you did. All you want to do is drive her back into the deep end so you can take her kids. Well I have news for you lady, those kids will remain in her custody as long as I have anything to say about it! You think that just because you have money that you can flash it all over town, and do or say whatever you want to anyone who steps on your shoes. We used to be best friends, but you have changed and have destroyed that! I no longer want anything to do with you! I'm giving you this last warning, you are Not the only family here who has money. Don't make me hire a lawyer and sue you for harassment! Just leave Camryn and her family alone and things won't get ugly! I'm gonna tell you something right now! This is my daughter, and Only I can say something about her if I want, but no one else better say one word about her or any of my children!"

Matt enters the living room after exiting the restroom and walks right into the lion's den. "Is everything alright darling? I couldn't help but to hear all of the yelling," he asks Camryn sweetly. "Oh and just who is this? Surely no one can even compare to the type of gentleman my son was," Emily snaps. Camryn gives Matt a sympathy look and says, "Mrs. Parker, Mother, this is Matt Whitmore....my boyfriend." Vicki smiles and says, "Mathew, I remember when you and Jake were little, and the two of you would come over, and hang out with Camryn and Steven. It's so nice to see you again." With a grim look Emily says, "Mathew!? You were Jake's best friend, how DARE YOU be with his wife! Do you really think Jake would want his best friend rolling in the hay with his wife! You have got ALOT of nerve!" Camryn's smile then turns into a frown, and angrily says, "Get out! Mrs. Parker, you don't have any respect for me or my family. Get out of my house NOW! You are no longer welcome here!" Emily thrusts her nose into the air and replies, "Well I never! Christian, gather the girls, Kevin, and Nicolas together, I think it's time that we leave! I know when we're not welcome!" Christian apologizes to the others and Emily storms outside as Camryn shows Christian into the kitchen.

Upon entering the kitchen, Christian turns to Camryn and says, "I'm sorry for the way Emily is acting. I was really hoping to have a nice Christmas with the whole family here, since we haven't done so since Jake's death. None of what she had said is true you know. Jake would want you to be happy and to move on. You have a nice home here, and two beautiful kids, move on with your life and be happy. If Mathew is who makes you happy, then be with him. Between you and me, Mathew has always been one of my favorites out of all the friends Jake had, and you have always been like a daughter to me. Jake loved you and you made him very happy. Don't let anyone else tell you different, or rain on your parade you hear?" "Thank you Mr. Parker. You have always treated me with kindness, and like a part of your family, and for that I am truly grateful," Camryn replies as she hugs him tightly. "I'm sorry we spoiled your Christmas, but with Emily being so angry, I think it's best for us to go before she ends up throwing a fit again," he tells Camryn. She gives a nod, and he tells his remaining family members who are also in the kitchen that it's time for them to leave, and they all head outside to get into the car with Emily.

Ten minutes later, Mom calls Matt and the rest of the family to join us in the dining room for Christmas dinner, and we all take our seats at the table. "Matt, would you like to say grace?" Mom asks him. Matt smiles before replying, "I would love to." "Father, we thank you for the many ways you have blessed this day. We are thankful for each of those who are gathered around this table. We ask you to bless us and our food, and to also bless those we love who aren't with us today. I pray for those who don't have enough to eat. We remember the stable in which you were born in, and pray for those who don't have a place to live. We bless you and give you thanks to your spirit who brings our hearts to life on Christmas day forever. Amen." Grandpa Harrison then carves the turkey, and we all chat and enjoy our delicious meal.

After we have all eaten dinner, Mom tells everyone to head into the living room to open our presents. Of course she didn't have to tell Adam and I twice, because as soon as that sentence escapes her lips, Adam and I rush off into the living room, and take our seats on a nearby sofa. "Would you do the honor of handing out presents? Think of it as being Santa's helper, Mom asks Matt. "I would be happy to," he replies and seals the deal in a kiss. Matt pulls up a chair and sits beside the tree, and begins to separate the presents by name, and we open our gifts as he hands them to us. Moments later, sweaters and dresses are being admired, necklaces envied over, and chocolates devoured. "We really didn't know what to get the two of you since you two basically have everything, but we hope you like your gifts. Adam and I smile at the two and tell them we love their presents and thank them. "Well looks like all of the gifts have been handed out. There's a garbage bag over in that chair Adam, won't you pick up the paper and throw it in there for me please," Mom asks him. "Wait a second. Not all of the presents have been opened," Matt smiles. "Are you sure you're feeling alright? Clearly there aren't anymore gifts under the tree," Mom tells him. With a smirk Matt says, "Oh but there is, but if you want your present, you will simply have to find it as it's hidden somewhere right in this very room." "Matt you dirty dog! You didn't have to get me anything. Just having you and my family here is the best gift I can ever receive." Mom tells him.

Twenty minutes pass by and Mom still can't find her gift. "Babe, would you like a hint?" Matt asks Mom. "That would be quite helpful," she replies. "Well look around or maybe even in the tree, " he tells her. Finally after five minutes of searching around the tree, Mom finds the small gift hidden in the thick branches of the tree. Her eyes lock on his and she begins to tear up as she thinks she knows what the small gift contains. "Well, aren't you going to open it?" Matt asks her. She gives a small nod, and shakily removes the paper which contains a small black box. As she opens it, she freezes in her spot. As her hands start to tremble, tears pore from her eyes, for the small black box contains a solid gold engagement ring, with a sparkling twenty kt diamond in the middle. Her eyes lock on his once more, as he gets up from his seat and takes the ring from the box. He then takes a knee, and says, "Dear sweet Camryn, I have loved you for a very long time, and nothing will ever change the way I feel about you. I love everything about you, and I even consider Adam and Faith as my own, and I love them just as much. You are my world, my everything. Will you marry me?" Shocked at what she had just heard, she smiles widely and says, "Yes! Yes! I will marry you!" Matt then places the ring upon Camryn's finger and scoops her up in his arms and looks deep into her eyes. "I love you," he whispers to her. "I love you too! This truly is the best Christmas present you could have given me," she whispers back. Adam and I beam at the fact we now have a wedding to plan for. Grandpa Harrison, Grandma Vicki, and the others all get up from their seats and hug them both tightly. "Welcome to the family son. Whatever you do, don't hurt her," Harrison tells Matt. He smiles widely in return and replies, "No need to worry about that Sir. I love your daughter with all of my heart, and I would never hurt her." A few hours later, Grandma Vicki and the rest of the family head home, and the room grows a little steamy as Mom and Matt share a passionate kiss. Adam and I glance at one another, and I nod my head towards the stairs to signal Adam to give them a little privacy.

The following day, Adam's outside working on his car as I return home from shopping with Shannon. As Adam slides out from the hood of his car, he begins to wipe off the grease from his hands and arms. "Where is winter already?" I ask as I lean against his car. "Ah, who needs winter here?" he replies. "Me. I need a season I can sulk and be depressed in," I tell him. "Don't tell me, you're babysitting tonight, and every movie store was out of Dirty Dancing," he says jokingly. "Very funny! Do you know that I had to go to three different movie stores just to find it?" I ask. "You must have it memorized by now," he says. "Well, whatever gets you through the night. Isn't that what you always say?" I reply. Just then someone rolls out from under the car, and I whip my head around to see Jax who is looking at me. His eyes wonder from my feet to my face, as he says, "That's what I always say." I smile slightly before saying, "Hi. I didn't see you." As he looks me up and down he says, "I saw you." Mom then interrupts to tell me that I have a phone call. Turning my attention back to Jax I say, "You'll have to excuse me. It's probably a very important phone call." Jax watches me as I head inside to get the phone from Mom. Adam must have noticed him watching me because he playfully throws his greasy towel in Jax's face.

Once I grab the phone, Matt heads outside and approaches Adam and Jax. "Hey Matt, why don't you check out what we've done to the car?" Adam asks him as he heads inside to get cleaned up. Matt gives a little nod as he turns to Jax. "So where did you learn to work on cars?" "By working on cars, same as Adam," Jax replies. "Adam tells me that you have a Porsche," Matt says. Jax gives a little nod before replying, "Yeah, now that is a happening car." "You uh, bought it with your paper route earnings?" Matt asks curiously. Jax smiles and says, "Yeah, something like that. Say Mr. Heartwell, would it be alright if I cleaned up a little bit and took a shower?" "I'm sure Mrs. Parker won't mind. The bathroom is upstairs, the third door on your right." Matt replies and Jax thanks him before heading into the house.

Ten minutes later, as I enter my room, I can't help but notice the shower running with the door wide open. Walking towards the bathroom door I yell, "Adam, can't you ever shut the door?" "It's hot enough in here already," I continue to yell as I enter the bathroom. Jax the peaks his head outside of the shower curtain and says that he's sorry. "Umm....So uh....it's ok." I begin to say. I smile and hurriedly walk back into my room and stand in front of the dresser mirror and try to do something with my hair before continuing, "You uh, keep popping up on me today." The shower then turns off and Jax wraps himself up in a towel before replying, "So you're into videos huh?" "Yeah, like movies," I tell him. "Have you ever seen Space Balls?" he asks. After pondering for a moment I reply, "I thinks so. On TV." "It's almost better on the big screen. Too bad you're babysitting tonight or you could see what I mean," he says as he enters my room with only his shirt off. "Well, actually, my plans have changed as the little girl I was supposed to babysit got chickenpox," I tell him. "Would you like to come along with Adam and I? We're going to see the new Hunger Games," he asks. I tell him that I would, and he gives me a nod before heading back into the bathroom to finish getting ready.

Later that evening,  after many coke and popcorn refills, Jax drops Adam and I off at home and heads home himself. Upon entering the house, Adam and I chat away about the movie we had just seen. "I'm glad you came, it wouldn't have been the same without you," Adam tells me. "Yeah, it was a lot of fun," I reply. "So much fun that you dumped your container of popcorn all over Jax. NOT just once, but TWICE," Adam points out. "Well if they wouldn't have it so loud in there, I wouldn't have jumped when the explosions happened!" I say now getting frustrated. Adam chuckles before replying, "Calm down sis! I was only joking, and Jax didn't seem like he was upset about it. We're going to see another movie tomorrow if you would like to join?" he tells me. "Oh, I don't know. I've had way too much soda and popcorn tonight, I don't wanna get fat," I tell him. "Well save it for another day," he says. I give a little nod and tell him that another day sounds perfect, and that I'm heading upstairs to take a nice bubble bath and head to bed.

Chapter - 6

 

Only a few months have passed and things couldn't be better. Mom introduced Adam and I to her new boyfriend Matt, who apparently she has been dating for months now. She just didn't tell us about him because she didn't want us to think he was trying to replace our father, and she didn't want us to blame ourselves if something went wrong between them. She said that things have gotten serious in their relationship, and that she feels it's time that we get to know him. I know he can't replace our father, but he does deserve a fair chance doesn't he?

That evening after Matt heads home, and Mom pulls Adam and I off to the side and asks us if we think she should invite Matt and his sister over for Thanksgiving dinner, which of course we both agree to. Mom beams as she says, "You two are the best! I couldn't ask for better children than you two, and I love you both so much. I'll call him to let him know. Oh! Faith, have you laid the turkey out for dinner tomorrow?" I give her a nod and tell her that I have even started baking the pies and making deviled eggs, macaroni salad, and the cranberry sauce. She smiles widely before replying, "You really are too much! Thank you for starting all of that for me. I know I haven't been around much due to work, but I really appreciate everything you do around here." Adam smiles and says, "I have some good news as well. I start work at Mel's Diner right in town. It's a small little 1950's place and it pays minimum wage plus tips." "Oh that's great news Adam! You're saving that money for college right?" Mom asks. Adam nods, and says some of it is being saved for college, but most of it is going to go towards fixing up his car. Mom tells him that it's good idea and to keep up the good work, as I head back into the kitchen to finish making the food I had started to prepare.

The following day is hectic from the time we all get up in the morning. Granted most of the cooking and baking had been done the night before, but there is still so much that needs to be done. The doorbell rings a cheerful chime, and Adam opens the door to find Matt holding flowers for Mom. "She's in the kitchen. Come on in," Adam tells him. Matt then follows Adam into the kitchen where he wraps his arms around Mom before kissing her. Mom's cheeks turn a radiant pink as she blushes, "Why don't you sit with Adam in the living room while Faith and I finish dinner?" "That's a grand idea. The football game is on, and I never miss it on turkey day." he replies. "Who's playing?" Mom asks. "The Patriots vs. The Dallas Cowboys. You know the Pats are gonna slaughter them," Matt chuckles and kisses Mom on the cheek before following Adam into the living room to watch the big game. "So Mom, have you and Matt discussed future plans yet? You know, as in the big 'M'?" I ask. Mom smiles, "No honey, I think it's a little too soon for that. What I had with your father was special, and we knew right from the start that we were meant for each other. He will always hold a piece of my heart." I can't help but to get the feeling that I have met Matt somewhere before. Perhaps from my childhood? He just has that familiar look.

An hour later, the oven chimes, signaling the turkey is ready to come out. Mom puts on her oven mitts and grabs the turkey out, as I gather all of the  delicious sides and place them onto the table. "Faith, can you set the table while I get Matt and your brother to join us?" Mom asks unknowingly that I had already started, and I nod and tell her that I will. As Mom enters the living room, she smiles widely as Adam and Matt are in deep conversation about how he knew our father, and that he had served with him in the Military. "I just can't believe how much the two of you have grown. The last time I saw you and your sister, you were in grade school. You're father was my best friend all through high school and was a very respected man in the Military." he tells Adam. Adam beams at the thought of Matt being Dad's best friend and fighting beside him during the war in Iraq. "Dinner is ready, that is if you two are ready to eat," Mom tells them with a smile. "It smells delicious darling, and I'm famished." Matt replies. Adam pats his stomach before saying, "You know I'm always hungry Mom, and it does smell so very good." The two follow Mom into the kitchen. We all sit at the table together as Mom says grace. As we're all passing the delicious food around the table to fill our plates, the doorbell chimes once again. Mom then excuses herself from the table and gets up to see who it could possibly be.

She opens the door to find Jax and Shannon on the other side. "I hope we're aren't intruding. Is the invitation still open? My mother went to visit my Aunt in South Carolina, and won't be home as she got stranded at the airport due to the heavy snow, and Jax's father is out on a business trip leaving Jax at home alone." Shannon explains. "Of course! The two of you are like family and are always welcome here any time," Mom replies and shows them into the dining room. "Please take a seat and help yourselves. Matt this is Adam's friend Jax, and Faith's friend Shannon." Mom tells Matt. He then shakes their hands and tells them that it's nice to meet them. "So Matt tells me he was Dad's best friend and served with him in the Military." Adam tells us.

"That's where I have seen him before. I haven't seen him since my brother and I were very young. He was Dad's best friend in high school, but if he was Dad's best friend, what is he doing with our mother and how did he find us? I guess as long as Mom is happy, what difference does it make? After all we have been through she does deserve to be happy," I think to myself.  "That's right Adam, he was your fathers best friend, and fought with him in Iraq. I just didn't know he had moved out here. You see when you're father was killed, Matt was wounded when he tried to get to your father when he noticed was shot. You and Faith probably don't really remember him since you were very young the last time he was around," Mom says. "I'm sure I can speak for both of us when I say that as long as you're happy, we're happy for you. After all Mom, you deserve to be happy too," I tell her.

After dinner, Shannon and I clean the kitchen and put away the food that's left over. As I'm wiping down the counter, Shannon turns to me and says, "So Matt is kind of cute, I mean for an older guy. Do you think he's the right one for your mom?" I pause for a moment before replying, "I think so. I mean as long as he treats her right, and does what a man is supposed to do to support his family, then yes I do think he's the right one for her. Besides, Adam seems to really like him and looks up to him. I think he can use a father figure to look up to ya know." Shannon gives a little nod, "Yeah. I think Adam can use that too. I mean I don't know much about fathers considering mine took off when I was five. All I ever get from him is simple Birthday and Christmas card telling me how sorry he is that he couldn't make it home."

I frown slightly at the thought of Shannon's father not being around much, "I'm sorry, I didn't know.... about your father I mean." I tell her. Shannon sighs and says, "It's alright. I have gotten used to it over the years. My parents can never get along when they're in the same room. Everything turns into a huge fight, and I can't blame him for staying away from her." I can tell by the look on Shannon's face that she can indeed use a good pick me upper, and I know just the thing to cheer her up! "Shannon, I know today is Thanksgiving and all, but at 6pm Black Friday sales start. What do you say we go shopping?" I ask her. Shannon beams as she replies, "You know for a change I haven't even thought about that! Shopping sounds great, but would your Mom mind if we went out? I mean she did invite Matt here for you and Adam to get to know him." "Ugh! Yeah I kind of forgot about that. I'm sure she wouldn't mind if we went out when he goes home," I reply.

As Shannon and I get the kitchen finished, Mom pokes her head in and suggests that we join them in the living room for a card game. "Matt will be going home afterwards, but I thought it would be a great way to spend some time with him," Mom tells us. Shannon and I nod in agreement and head into the living room to join them. I take a seat next to Jax and Shannon takes a seat next to Adam. "So do all of you know how to play Rummy 500, or would you like me to explain the rules?" Matt asks us. All of us agree that we know the rules and are ready to play. Matt shuffles the cards and passes out six cards to each of us, and then places the rest of the deck face down in the middle of the table with one card facing up beside it. An hour passes and of course Mom is the first one to go out, with Adam right behind her. "I just know that it won't be long until I'm out of the game as well. Oh well, at least I have Jax right next to me to keep me entertained. Then again who am I kidding, he probably doesn't even know that I exist," I think to myself.

Two hours fly by as the card game comes to an end leaving Shannon as the winner. "You got lucky," Jax snickers at Shannon. "You wish! You're just mad cause I won!" she tells him jokingly. Matt sits next to Mom on the love seat and snuggles with her, "You have really good kids, and I'm glad I'm able to get to know them. We should do this a little more often. How would you feel about seeing the new Star Wars movie and bring them along?" Mom beams as she replies, "Really? I would really love that!" "I thought you might. How about tomorrow evening? Say after dinner at Black Diamond?" he asks. "That sounds great! Adam, Faith what do you think?" Mom asks us. We both tell her that sounds like alot of fun and that we would really love to go. "Well then it's settled. Black Diamond for dinner, and see the movie afterwards. I really don't want this night to end, but I really need to get home as it's getting late. I'll pick you and the kids up at six O'clock," Matt replies as Mom walks him to the door.

"I should be going too," Jax tells us. "You know Jax, you and Adam could come Christmas shopping with us," I tell him. With a smirk, Jax replies, "Thanks, but no thanks. Shopping on Black Friday isn't my thing. Are you sure you girls know what you're in for? With all of the other customers pushing you out of the way, knocking you down, and snatching things right out of your hands?" Shannon lets out a giggle before replying, "This isn't the first time I have been shopping on Black Friday, and I'm sure it won't be the last, so I'm well aware of how horrible other shoppers can be. But I can assure you that it's not as bad as others make it out to be. We'll be fine." "Mmhmm" Adam murmurs jokingly. Just then I hear Mom tell Matt goodnight and shuts the door behind him.

Shannon follows me into the foyer where we find Mom who is about to head into the living room. "Hey Mom, I just thought I would let you know that I'm gonna do a little shopping with Shannon, and we'll be back in a couple of hours" I tell her. "Where are you going to go shopping?" Mom asks us. "We're just gonna head on up to a few boutiques in town and get some Christmas shopping done. Don't worry Mrs. Parker, I'll have her back in two hours," Shannon tells her. With a smile, Mom tells us to have fun and if for any reason we're gonna be late to call her. We give her a little nod, and I grab my jacket and purse as we head out.

As we arrive at the Square Mall in town, I can't help but notice how cute all of the little boutiques look as they're decorated for Christmas. "If we would have left earlier, we would have seen the Christmas Tree lighting. My parents and I used to come here every year for it. That is until they split up. Ever since I got my drivers license, I haven't missed it. I have so many memories here, that it just reminds me that there are still good things in this world, and I can't help but get a warm feeling every time I come here this time of the year." She tells me. I tell her again how sorry I am about her parents splitting up, and she tells me not to worry about it. After we park the car and walk towards the entrance, there are crowds of people everywhere. I don't even think there is anywhere to even walk. Two middle aged women are fighting over some doll that happens to be the last one on the shelf, and two other women that can't be much older than us, are fighting over who knows what. "What do you say we just come back another day, this place is just a mad house?" I ask her. She nods in return, and drops me off at home where Adam is still in the living room watching a movie. "What happened to being gone for a couple of hours?" He smiles. "Oh shut up Adam. That place was a mad house, and I'm sure you wouldn't have stayed there either." I tell him. "Ha! I wouldn't go shopping on Black Friday even if my life depended on it!" he snickers. "Well since you're home early do you wanna watch this movie with me? I had just started it." He asks. "What movie?" I ask him. "Reindeer Games," he replies. "One of my faves! You know I can't resist that movie!" I reply.  

Chapter - 5

Friday evening has finally arrived, Adam enters my room and plops down on my bed, and starts telling me about an argument that he and Heather had just had on the phone. As I'm putting my makeup on and getting ready for my date with Kevin, Adam asks if I'm even listening and I tell him that I am. "Where are you going?" he asks. I smile and reply, "I have a date tonight." With who?" he asks. "Kevin," I reply. "Just how old is this guy?" he asks. "Old enough to fend for himself," I reply. "You mean like in college?" he asks. I smile and reply, "Something like that. If you tell Mom, I'll kill you!" He grins as I take a seat on the bed next to him and he asks if it's serious, and I tell him that I don't know but I think it is. "I mean I like him so much that it's kind of scary. In my mind it's like I'm fixated on him. Sometimes I think I'm in love, but I know that's not possible because we haven't been together that long." I continue to tell him. "Well who is he? Adam asks. "Give me a little time on this one okay? I promise I'll tell you soon." I tell him. "I hate secrets. Just promise me that you'll be careful," he tells me as he kisses me on the cheek. I tell him that I promise and he exits the room. 

Within a half hour later, Shannon picks me up and gives me a ride to the house where Kevin had dropped me off the night before. She then gives me a goodbye hug and tells me to be careful. "I will, and I seriously don't think I have anything to worry about as he's a very sweet guy." I tell her and get out of the car to wait for Kevin. She then gives me a smile a waves at me as she drives off . Ten minutes go by as Kevin finally arrives to pick me up. Tonight is a special night, as I get to meet his friends from the law firm he works at. He pulls into the parking lot and opens the door for me to get out, and takes my hand into his as we enter the Italian restaurant. As we enter through the revolving glass doors, one of the servers greets us and says, "Hello, is there anything I can get you?" "Yes, I have some friends we're supposed to meet with from the Johnson and Langly firm," Kevin tells him. "Ah. Yes, right this way, The server says. We then follow her passed the dessert station, and as we round the corner, she shows us to our seat in a corner booth where all of Kevin's friends have been waiting.

They greet us as we take our seats, and pass us a couple of menus. Kevin smiles as he introduces me to his friends, "Babe this is Gary and his very pregnant wife, Linda." I tell them that it's very nice to meet the two of them, and we place our orders, and the server tells us that our meals will be here in just a bit. "So Faith, what's your major?" Gary asks. Linda sighs and says, "You must get so sick of being asked that all of the time." Kevin smiles, "What it is anyway?" I take a sip of my champagne before replying, "Astronomy."  "Wow. You didn't tell us she's a brain Kevin," Linda says. "I flunked astronomy." Gary sighs. Kevin sits there, mouth agape as he is lost for words. He clears his throat and says, "I had no idea you were majoring in astronomy." "It's so much math." Linda adds. The server then returns with our meals and we all thank her as she turns to leave the table. Taking a bite from the delicious food on his plate, Kevin says, "How does everyone like this Santa Milion?" 

Of course the conversation doesn't stay focused on the meal for long. Gary just has to bring up a whole new discussion about astronomy. "You know I heard that they discovered another universe, after this one, like some billion light years away, or something like that." Gary says. "Who cares Gary!" Lind tells him. "Maybe Faith does, after all it is her major. What exactly is a black hole, really?" Kevin takes a sip from his glass and asks me to fill them in on what a black hole is. "Boy have I really gotten myself into a fine mess", I think to myself. I sit and think for a couple of seconds before replying, "I guess the easiest way to explain it, without a working knowledge of  forth dimensional geometry, is that it's just simply a hole." Gary looks at me in disbelief and says, "Just a hole?" "In space dummy," Linda tells Gary. "That's black," I add. Gary shakes his head and chuckles, "I still don't get it." "Kevin tells us your entire sorority house transferred here from New Jersey." Linda says. I smile slightly and reply, "Not exactly all of us, actually. Just five of us." "See Kevin, I told you it wasn't the entire house." Linda adds. Kevin smiles and we all discuss the wonderful meal we had just had, and start a new conversation about dessert. 

Two hours later, Kevin and I leave the restaurant, and he drives me back to the house he had picked me up from. "I really don't want this evening to end," he tells me as he opens my door. Our eyes lock as he gently strokes my cheek. He kisses me passionately, and I wrap my arms around him. As our passion grows, I have to move away from him. "I-I really have to go Kevin," I tell him. He takes a deep breath as I go around the car to meet him at the drivers window. "About Friday. Plan on spending the night, and tell your house mother, that you're visiting your parents for the week." he tells me as he gets into his car. "I'll try," I reply. Kevin then smiles a sweet smile before giving me one last kiss goodnight, "Well try hard." 

 The following day at school in science class, Mr. Linden is talking about how well the class did on the quiz we took on Friday, and then continues on to his lecture of the day. "Kevin wants to go out again Friday night. He wants me to spend the night with him," I tell Shannon. She smiles and says, "You've gotta tell him the truth Faith." "What if he freaks out?" I ask. She sighs and says, "If he really loves you, then it shouldn't matter. Do you think you love him?" I shake my head in confusion, and tell her that I'm not sure. Shannon then asks me if I love him enough to sleep with him. I sigh and tell her that I really don't know, but I think I do. With seriousness in her eyes she says, "Then you gotta tell him."

The next three days go by so quickly and I feel like my head is spinning. I have been deep in thought about what Shannon had said on Monday about telling Kevin the truth about me and about my age. She's right, if he really loves me, then my age won't matter to him. That night, I tell my mother that I will be staying the night at Shannon's house which she says is ok. Once again Shannon picks me up and I get ready at her house. Her mother never asks any questions about what we're doing or where we're going, so it's the perfect way to be able to see Kevin again. After I'm ready to go, Shannon drops me off at the house for Kevin to pick me up. 

Twenty minutes later, Kevin picks me up and he takes me to this very fancy/expensive restaurant. As our meals are set onto the table, the server refills our drinks, and laves the table. "Kevin this place is really nice," I tell him with a smile. He flashed that cute smile of his and says," For the money it's costing, it should be. It's worth it  to be here with you." I smile and thank him. He grins and says, "Can I tell you something?" "Sure," I reply. "The last women I went on three dates with, I lived with for eleven months," he says as he tips his glass to his lips.  When I ask him what happened, he continues by telling me that they had gotten into a weird fight about a new couch for the living room. He says that he decided he had to go with his own taste because the couch was probably going to be around longer than she was. That's when I decide I think it's time to try and tell him the truth. "Kevin, do you think I can tell you anything?" I ask. He smiles and says of course I can, and that the older he gets, the more he realizes openness is the more important part of a relationship. "You'd feel the same way, no matter what? I mean this could be a shock." I hesitantly tell him. He then leans in and says, "Trust me. I'm shock proof. Faith, what is it?" he asks. 

"First of all, I want you to have my phone number." I tell him. He smiles widely and says, "You got a phone." I smile slightly and say, "No. I've always had a phone. I don't live in that sorority  house, and I don't go to college." His smile turns to more of a puzzled expression and suggests that I must work then. I glance down at my plate and say, "Kevin, I am a junior at Newcrest High."  "What kind of a junior?" he asks. I look at him and say, "A sixteen year old junior. Look, my best friend, Shannon told me that if we were getting serious, that I had to tell you the truth, and that if you really loved me, it wouldn't matter anyway." With a very irritated expression, he says, "Oh is that what Shannon said?" I then tell him how I thought he was shock proof. The server comes back over the table with a wine bottle and asks if we would like a refill, and Kevin tells him that maybe he should check my ID. "Or is that fake too?" Kevin asks. Confused, the server leaves the table once again to assist his other tables. Kevin becomes angry and says,"How could you do this to me? What is this, some kind of a high school prank?" "Kevin, I'm sorry. I thought," I begin but Kevin quickly interrupts me. "You thought... You thought wrong. I should sew your parents."  He then calls for the waiter to bring him the check, and he does just as he is asked. Kevin pays for our meals and we get into his car for him to take me home.

Most of the ride home is spent in silence as tears stream down my cheeks. As we draw near the road I live on, I tell him to make a left, and that's when he breaks the silence. "Tell me, Faith, was it fun playing grownup?" he asks. Tears then pore from my eyes as I say, "My feelings for you didn't change just because I'm a few years younger than you thought I was." He lets out a chuckle before replying, "What the hell do you know about feelings?" "I know alot about feelings. I would never tell anyone I liked them and then treat them the way that you're treating me." "Just wait until somebody you thought you cared about lies to you." he says angrily. "You know, don't you think it was hard on me too, Kevin?  Lying to my family about where I was going at night, flunking out of school. All for what? God, I can't believe it! I was gonna sleep with you tonight, and you were gonna be the first guy!" I say as I choke back the tears. He gives me an apologetic look as he puts the car in park in front of my house. I get out of his car and he chases after me down the pathway leading to the house. "Faith," he says as he tries to grab a hold of my arm. "No! Just get off of me, I'm glad this happened." I tell him. "At least let me walk you to the door," he says. "No! Just leave me alone! I never wanna see you again!" I yell. 

I run towards the house and Mom opens the door and closes it behind me. I then wrap my arms around her tightly, "I'm so sorry Mom." "Oh baby. It's alright honey. It's okay. I know, I know," she soothes. I then wipe my face with the sleeve of my jacket, and tell her that I never meant to lie to her, and how very sorry I am for doing so. "I know you didn't honey. I know." Our conversation then moves to the couch in the living room, and she asks me who the guy in the car was as she moves a couple pieces of hair from my face. "Some guy. Shannon and I went to a club...." I begin to explain. "Oh, honey, I'm sorry. It's my fault too. I just... I knew things weren't right, and I just....oh, I wanted you to be happy here, to fit in, but not like this." Mom says. "I know." I whisper as I bury my face into her shoulders once more. "Oh, It's alright honey." Mom soothes. Adam comes downstairs and asks what's going on, and what's wrong. I sit up before replying, "Nothing, Look, can we talk about this tomorrow, I have a lot to catch up on with chemistry." "Yeah sure honey," Mom says and I head up to my room and catch up on my homework.