Summer Vacation

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter

1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Destiny sat on her gold-framed day bed, garnished with ruffles and pillows. Her room was colored with light and dark shades of pink that resembled a giant Pepto-Bismol bottle, and she hated it. Her ear was pressed to the receiver of her pink phone talking to her friend Lisa. She was going away for the summer to work on a ranch and she couldn’t wait for her life to finely begin. Destiny’s parents had been driving her crazy all year telling her she was to young for boys and she didn’t need to be out after 9:00pm. She so hated to be treated like a baby; after all she was almost eighteen.

  When her friend Lisa contacted her a month ago asking if she wanted to go work on a ranch with her and Brian, Destiny jumped at the chance. Of course it took two weeks of constant hounding and promises made by her, Lisa, and Brian before her parents would even consider the idea, however they had managed to finally get them to let her go four days before they needed to be gone. Now Destiny was rushing around packing her stuff when Lisa had called her.

  “It’s going to be great to get away for the summer.”

  “You mean you’re not going to miss your parents?” Lisa asked with laughter.

  “Of course I’ll miss them; it’ll just be nice to get out from under their…”She paused searching for the right words. “watchful eye!”

  “Well maybe after this trip you’ll thank them for being so protective and wanting to take care of you all these years.”

  “Yeah, right Lisa and what fantasy world do you live in?”

  “Ha! Ha! Very funny. Hey I better get off this thing and get ready before Brian gets here. If he has to wait for me he’ll freak”

  “Yeah, okay! See ya when you get here.”

  “Bye!”

  “Bye!” Destiny hung up the receiver and looked around her room.

  She sighed as she saw the clothes strung all over her bed, her sleeping bag unraveled over the back of her chair, and she still had to find her suit cases which were some where in her closet or maybe under her bed. She shrugged her shoulders then got off her bed.

  Destiny walked over to her closet and began to look around for her suitcases but instead she saw her 3 duffle bags lying in obscure positions over boxes and stuffed animals. She picked them up and went over to the bed placing them on her pink comforter. She started to throw her clothes and other personal items into them zipping them up as she finished. She stood up and placed her hands on her hips wondering were in the hell she had put her make up case. She suddenly remembered the last time she had used her make up case was for her graduation ceremony a few weeks ago. She walked in her bathroom; there it was on her counter, a small bag with make up falling out of it. Her brush lying on the floor and the towel she had used this morning lying across the toilet. She gathered up her make up and brush stuffing them back in the small bag then went back into her room where she put them in one of her duffle bags.

  “Sweetheart, Brian and Lisa are here” Her mother voice drifted up from the entryway into Destiny’s room.

  Destiny swung all three of her bags over her shoulder and bolted out of her bedroom door turning the corner and headed down her stairs, suddenly she pitched forward as she caught the last step wrong, her father caught her in his arms and placed her on the ground a big grin was on his face as he ruffled her hair on the top of her head.

  “Dad, don’t!” Destiny cringed as she attempted to fix her long blonde hair with her hands.

  “What? Getting to old for me to mess with?”

  “No dad. I just want my hair to look nice.”

  “Okay!”

  “Sweetheart,” Destiny’s mom walked up to her and put her hands on Destiny’s shoulders. “Remember what we talked about last night. No boys, No alcohol, and absolutely no sex.”

  Destiny looked around and saw Brian and Lisa trying not to laugh. “Mom, come on.”

  “What?”

  “Do you have to let the whole world know what we talked about? It’s embarrassing.”

  “I’m sure Lisa and Brian got a version of the same talk with their parents.” She smiled at Lisa and Brain who were smart enough to offer her a ‘Yes ma’am’.

  Destiny rolled her eyes at both of them “thanks for encouraging her guys.”

  “Now honey, you’re just being silly.”

  “You better head out of here before you can’t escape.” Destiny’s father hugged her tightly and kissed her on the head.

  “Have a good time,” Her mother held her close for few seconds then pointed her index finger at her daughter. “Don’t forget to write.”

  Brian and Lisa waved goodbye to Destiny’s parents and walked out the door. Destiny followed them with great enthusiasm as she waved good-bye to the over protective couple standing on the porch. She walked up to Brian’s Trans Am were he was waiting with the trunk open, she held out her duffle bags one at a time as he deposited each one in the over crowded space. Lisa held the door open as Destiny climbed in the back, Lisa climbed in the passenger side and closed the door. They heard a thud coming from the back of the little car then seconds later Brian climbed in behind the wheel with in seconds the engine sprang to life.

  “So where are we supposed to meet Vickie?” Destiny said from the back seat.

  “There’s a McDonalds in Eugene off of the highway, she said to be there around noon.” Lisa turned slightly in her seat so she could look at Destiny who had slide to the middle of the back seat.

  “Damn, it’s already ten forty-five, we’ll never make it.” Brian commented as he pulled out from in front of Destiny’s house.

  “We’ll be fine. Just don’t get pulled over and we’ll be there on time.” Lisa said with a smile.

  “Very funny,” Brian retorted. “The last time I got pulled over was two months ago.”

  “Come on guys no fighting, we’re going to be adult free for a whole two months. No rules, No curfew, just total freedom.” Destiny’s voice drifted from the back seat.

  “We weren’t fighting, we’re conversing.” Lisa said with a chuckle.

  “Let’s blow this town.” Brian said as he pulled on to highway 217.

  They drove with the radio blaring and as their voices sang along with the music. 17 minutes later they turned on to I-5 heading towards Salem. A sense of freedom overwhelmed Destiny as she got further and further from Beaverton, and the restrictions of her parents. The windows were down and the wind blew through her hair as the Oregon landscape whisked by.

 

 

 

  An hour and a half later they pulled off the freeway as they drove into Eugene, and entered McDonald’s parking lot where they saw Vickie standing in front of a gray 4-Runner fighting with what appeared to be a very tall muscular man. They were both waving there arms around. The guy started to walk away than suddenly he turned and headed back to where Vickie was standing. Lisa turned towards Brian and stared at him.

  “Go faster? She could be in trouble.”

  “I seriously doubt it dear, she’s more than likely just having a fight with her boyfriend. You know… what’s his name?” He was silent for a few seconds trying to remember what Lisa had told him that morning.

  Lisa crossed her arms and said flatly. “Jake!”

  “Yeah, that’s it.” Brian said with a grin. “Anyway, Honey their just having a lover’s spat.”

  “Like we’re going to have if you don’t shut up and get over there.” She held out her arm and pointed towards the back of the parking lot were the fighting couple stood.

  Brian’s smile fell from his face as he headed for the back of the parking lot. Lisa turned forward in her seat as the smile of victory appeared on her face. Destiny was doing the best she could to try to stop the sudden urge in the back of her throat to burst out with laughter.

  Brian turned into the parking lot next to the older SUV. Lisa threw open her door and sprang from the front seat, heading towards the couple as her two companions quickly scuffled out of their seats to follow their determined comrade.

  Jake stepped back as the pretty young brunet came out of nowhere and looked up at him with her ebony eyes piercing right through his body. Boy, was she beautiful, pissed, but beautiful. He was waiting to see what was going to happen next; she opened her thick pink lips and started to yell at him. Unbelievable, he thought to himself. Now there are two very beautiful and very pissed off females yelling at him.

  “What do you think your doing?” She squared off her shoulders as she confronted the strange man.

  His mouth dropped open ready to respond, however before he could utter a word they both heard a voice over Lisa shoulder. She turned to face a fiery red head. Vickie had crossed her arms and was looking at Lisa with piercing green eyes.

  “What do you think your doing?” She spat, angrily.

  “Saving you!” Lisa shot back her arms crossed in front of her chest one foot slightly in front of the other.

  “Well, it’s your fault that Jake and I are in this fight to begin with.” Lisa dropped her arms to her thighs and her facial expression softened. Vickie continued. “I mean after all, if you where here on time we wouldn’t have been in this fight to begin with.”

  “Sorry Vic!” Lisa said pathetically, as she stared at her friend with an expression of bewilderment and guilt.

  “Damn it Vic, do you always have to play the part of a bitch?” Jake yelled at her.

   Destiny watched in shock, this young man who was daring to defy Vickie Santinee was gorgeous. She could not help but to notice his well-defined muscles through his tight jeans. She slowly moved her eyes up to his waist and than up to his black T- shirt that showed off his arms, defining the muscles that caused the cotton cloth to stretch to its limits. Destiny found her self silently wishing his face was just as perfect as the rest of his body. She moved her eyes up to his face taking in the masculine beauty of it. His eyes of stunning light blue framed by raven black hair that reached to just below his ears, the bangs cut just above his ears and spilt down the middle in a skater style. His medium sized lips were eloquently framed by a neatly trimmed goat-tee. His nose shaped like the Greek statues of gods that you see in museums.

  Jake momentarily froze as his eyes met a stunning pair of light gray eyes with traces of blue, framed by gold blond hair with high lights of white and red, mounted on the most beautiful heart shaped face he had ever seen. Her light golden skin peered out from a white V necked shirt and light blue shorts. He watched her mouth open slightly as she discovered he had seen her looking at him. He forced him self to look away and back at his girlfriend.

  “For God’s sake, Jake! They were late and put us behind schedule, there for if they were on time we would have been to busy to get in this fight.” Vickie said sarcastically in response to Jake’s comment.

  “Don’t feed me that line of crap, you would have found time to fight with me sooner or later, regardless of weather they were on time or not.” He looked away from her glancing at Destiny momentarily, before turning and heading towards the restaurant leaving a smoldering Vickie behind him.

  “If you think I’m going to ride with you to California now, Jake Ryan, you’re sadly mistaken.” She yelled after him.

  Jake held his arms up above his head and dropped them quickly to his sides while shaking his head in indifference. Destiny watched him walk into the restaurant than took off after him. Brian looked over at Lisa and Vickie who were still talking amongst them selves. He decided to follow after Destiny knowing Lisa would be justifying their tardiness to her friend for the next several moments.

   Lisa looked at Vickie her arms crossed in front of her chest as tears fell from her eyes. She approached her cautiously and placed a hand on her friends shoulder. She turned and sat beside Vickie, than placed her hands in her lap and laced her fingers together. “Sorry honey, I didn’t know that being a few minutes late would cause so much trouble.” Lisa put an arm around her friend.

  “It’s okay Lees; we’ve been fighting constantly for the last 2 weeks.” She looked up at Lisa. “I guess it’s just the stress of the wedding.”

  “Wedding?” The look of confusion came upon her face like a shadow.

  “Well, we were going to tell everyone in Montana as a surprise, but now I don’t even know if it’s going to happen.”  Vickie shrugged her shoulders.

  “You’re right, its just stress, everything will be okay.” Lisa placed a hand over her friends.

  “I hope so.”   

  “Well you can ride with Dessie, Brian, and me. I mean, that will give you two a chance to cool down and relax from each other for a while.”

  “Does Destiny have to ride with us?” Vickie asked in a soft soothing voice. She hated the little snoop she always stuck her nose in where it didn’t belong. She had only aloud her to come along because Lisa had begged, convincingly telling her how much better Vickie would be with another body to help with the labor involved on the trip.

  “Why not?” Lisa got up from the bumper and walked over to the passenger side of Brian’s car. Vickie followed her.

  “Look it’s not that I don’t like Destiny.” She lied. “It’s just we don’t get along, all that well, and I think it would be best if she rode with Jake.” She looked at her friend to see how well she adjusted to her request. “Besides, it’s not very fair to make Jake ride by him self, he’s under stress too.  He really is a nice guy, Lees.” She added for good measure.

  Lisa thought for a moment, than replied. “Fine, but only if Destiny agrees, understood?”

  “Understood!” Vickie replied with confidence. Vickie new Destiny would not turn down a chance to ride with her fiancée, after all Jake was irresistible and Destiny never turned down the chance to try and get Vickie’s boyfriends. However Vickie had faith in the fact that she was the most desirable out of the two women and that there would be no problems with Jake’s loyalties.

  “Go a head and get in the car and I’ll go talk to Destiny and Jake about switching rides. You want anything to eat while I’m in there?”

  “Yeah! One of those… Big Mac meal deals with a Coke.” Vickie climbed in the back seat of Brian’s car. Lisa leaned in and looked at her friend and smiled.

  “I’ll be back. Don’t worry about the fight, everything will be fine.” She winked at her friend and pulled her head out from inside the car and shut the door. She began the short hike to the restaurant doors.

 

 

 

 

  Brian and Destiny walked over to Jake who was standing by the condiment counter looking up at the big menu that hung over the cashiers counter. They stood by his side; Brian following his eyes to the menu while Destiny stared at Jake mesmerized by the shear power of his male form. Destiny had never seen such a man in her life. Brain was handsome but this guy tipped the Richter scale.

   Jake looked over at the pair that had joined him and met Destiny’s admiring eyes again. He smiled, as he saw the young woman looking at him with admiring scrutiny. He noticed that her companion had turned to look at him out his peripheral vision. He forced his gaze off the young woman and looked at the man by her side. The young man spoke.

  “Hi, I’m Brian and this beautiful young lady who seems to be unable to keep her eyes off you, is Destiny.” He smiled as he saw Destiny turn and glance at him angrily.

  “I’m Jake, and yes, she is very beautiful.” He smiled at her and couldn’t help but notice the color rise in her cheeks with embarrassment.

   Jake could hear Brian speaking to her but found him self unable to make out the words, his complete and total attention was on the girl who stood before him. He found him self mesmerized by stormy gray eyes, the way the two shades of gray swirled like smoky clouds around a ebony moon in their own world, his soul could get lost in those eyes. He mused. His gaze fell to her small round nose and her plump rose colored lips that seemed to beg to be kissed.  She had milky white skin that made her look as if she were a living china doll, she could easily be the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.

  “See Dessie even he thinks your pretty.” Brian turned towards Jake who was staring hypnotically at Destiny with a smile across his face. “Isn’t that right?”

  Jake didn’t respond.

  “Jake!” Brian raised his tone slightly.

   Suddenly Brian’s voice broke through the hypnotic spell that this woman had cast upon him. He turned and looked at Brian “Ha?”

  “Dude, you are so lost.” Brian shook his head and turned towards the door where he noticed Lisa entering the building. He smiled at her as he held his arm out allowing her to walk into it as he wrapped it around her waist.

  “This is my beautiful girlfriend, Lisa.”

  Jake turned to the lovely brunet and held out his hand to her. She shook his hand and smiled. “Hello!” Jake smiled back. “I’m Jake.”

  “I know.” Lisa let go of his hand and turned towards Destiny.

  “What did I do?” Destiny asked as she noticed her friend looking at her annoyance in her eyes.

  “Nothing I just wanted to talk to you for a minute.” Lisa glanced at Jake before returning her gaze back to Destiny. “Privately!”

  “Okay! Let’s go to the restroom.” Destiny took off towards the bathrooms with Lisa at tow.

  They entered the women’s door and stood by the row of sinks. Destiny leaned against the counter crossing her ankles as Lisa leaned over the counter and inspected her self in the mirror. She fixed her mascara that had run slightly from her lashes to the bottom of her eyes.

  “Vickie wants to ride with us. She thinks her and Jake ‘need’ a break, you know a sort of cooling off period.” She stood straight and turned resting her hip against the counter and a hand on its top. “Anyway Vic wants to know if you want to ride with Jake so he doesn’t have to ride by himself. I told her it was your decision.”

  Destiny turned to face her friend. “Sure.” She responded with indifference but in reality she would love the chance to ride with the gorgeous example of man flesh that had presented its self to her. Besides, Vickie didn’t deserve this guy, she treated all her men like crap and she was sure that Jake was no different. This kind of man deserved to be treated like the god he was. Besides Vickie was a spoiled brat anyway and thought she was god’s gift to men.

  “You don’t have to!”

  “No, Vickie and I don’t get along anyway. It will be better all the way around if I ride with Jake.”

  “Are you sure?” Lisa asked with concern.

  “You worry too much, Lisa your acting like he’s Jack the ripper or something” Destiny looked at her friend questionably, than smiled and leaned over and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Come on; let’s go ask Jake if he doesn’t mind having me for a riding partner.”

  The two girls left the restroom and walked down the short hall and back to the counter where the men were standing in front of the cashier. Lisa approached Jake by touching him on his shoulder. He turned and looked down at the 5 foot 2 inch woman who met him with those damn ebony eyes again, she had obviously bought what ever story Vickie had told her, he got the distinct impression she didn’t like him very much.

  “I have something to ask you.”

  “Let me guess,” He paused briefly. “Vickie wants to know if one of you lovely young lady’s would like to ride with me so that we could have a cooling off period?”

  Lisa looked at him with astonishment. Brian caught her stare and was attempting to keep from laughing.

  “How did you know what I was going to ask?”

  “She does this to me all the time. When ever we get in a fight, no matter who we are with, she tries her best to make me seem like the jackass and the bad guy.”

  “Tell me something I don’t already know!” Destiny commented. She turned away from the group and looked down at the floor cursing her self for speaking out loud. Lisa was going to give it to her now.

  “Destiny Lynn,” Lisa scolded. “If it wasn’t for Vickie you wouldn’t even be here.”

  “No, if it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t be here.”

  “So do me the favor, and get along with Vickie, please?” Lisa begged.

  Destiny rolled her eyes. “It’s not me you have to worry about, it’s her.”

  Lisa stood there with her arms crossed starring at Destiny.

  “Look, Ladies, there’s no need for fighting.” Jake smiled.

  They both turned to him at the same time and spoke in unison, “we aren’t fighting we’re conversing.”

  “Okay,” Jake put up both his hands and backed away from the two ‘conversing’ females in front of him. “My bad.”

  They both broke out in smiles and looked at each other for a few seconds exchanging unspoken words. Lisa turned to Jake. “So, it’s okay?”

  “Yeah, I don’t have a problem with it if Dessi doesn’t mind.” He smiled at Destiny, then turned to Lisa “I’m assuming Destiny is the one you want to ride with me, right?”

  “…If you wouldn’t mind?” Lisa voice was sarcastic.

  “Well let me see…”He looked towards the ceiling. “A bickering Vickie or lovely and a not pissed off Destiny.” Jake smiled. “Who would you choose Brian?”

  “Leave me out of it.” He smiled and held up his hands in defense.

  “Will there be anything else?” A loud voice came from in front of them.

  Jake turned to notice a slim teenage girl staring at him from behind the counter. Her eyes looked annoyed, and the smirk on her face might as well been a flashing a neon sign exclaiming, ‘how dare you ignore me and take up my time.’ Jake was about to respond with the same amount of candor, he was tired of women talking to him like some kind of unfeeling Neanderthal, but Brian responded before his lips could even part.

  “No thanks.” Brian took both bags and handed one of them to Jake than each went for there drinks, picked them up and turned towards the girls.

  “Sure Destiny’s more than welcome to ride with me.”

  “Squared away?” Brian paused.

  Lisa nodded.

  “Good now get something to eat we’ll wait for you out by the cars.”

  Lisa and Destiny watched the guys walk out the doors. They turned towards each other briefly, a humble expression across their faces. Than turned towards the cashier who at this point was turning red with frustration. They smiled at her as they gave her their order. They waited in silence as the girl packed up their orders in a bag. The girl smiled at them as she handed them their food than turned towards the next customer and smiled flirtatiously. Lisa and Destiny shook there heads lightly and went out the doors towards the cars.

  Brian turned towards Jake as he held the door open for Lisa. “Well if we get separated for some reason than we will meet you at the first rest stop out of Roseburg.”

  “No problem.” Jake closed the door after helping Destiny inside his truck.

Both men walked around the front of their vehicles to the driver side and climbed in. Starting their cars they signaled each other with a wave of their hands and Brian followed Jake out of the parking lot and on to the freeway.

 

 

 

 

 

   Lisa turned in her seat and handed Vickie her meal. “So, what’s been going on?”

  “What do you mean?”

  “How did the two of you go from being lovers to each others worst enemies? And the whole story, everything.” Lisa tried to sound nonchalant.

  “I told you already.” Vickie looked confused.

  “I know you told me, but I want to know details.” She probed.

  “Well, we’ve just been getting on each others nerves lately. It seems like every time we talk we end up fighting. It usually doesn’t get as heated as this last one though, but I’ll

tell you what; I’m not going to stand for him telling me to shut up.” She opened her bag and began to eat her fries.

  Brian gave a sigh and rolled his eyes. Lisa shot him a disapproving glance and sighed loudly. Brian mouthed ‘sorry’ and turned back to the road in front of him. Lisa turned back towards her friend. She looked for any signs that Vickie saw Brian’s cenacle outburst. Vickie was starting to eat her hamburger and looked completely oblivious of what had just occurred in the front of the car.

  “Without sounding like a bitch, what the hell did you mean ‘If we weren’t late you wouldn’t have gotten in that fight?”

  “I was pissed off and needed someone to blame.”

  “At least she’s honest!” Brian piped up.

  Lisa slapped him on the shoulder. “Further comments are not required from the peanut gallery.”

  Lisa turned back towards her friend who was half done with her sandwich and not paying attention to what was going on up front anyway, or more than likely, knew exactly what had happened and was pleased to the fact that she wasn’t the only one with relationship problems.

  “So you had to use us for an excuse rather than face up to the fact that you guys may not be getting along.” Lisa said furiously.

  “Sorry, I didn’t mean to, he just pissed me off.” Vickie took a drink from her soda than continued. “The fight really got started when I was wondering if you guys were going to make it or not, and he told me to chill out and relax.”

  “You got mad at him for that?” Brian squawked. “Let me tell you something, I would respond in the same way if…...”

  “Well now we know that all apes think alike.” Vickie interrupted.

  Brian was about to say something back to Vickie when Lisa turned and switched on the radio. She turned and looked out the window at the passing scenery as her two companions sat stewing in there seats waiting for the others to deify the silent order given by Lisa with the blaring music being the only thing to break the silence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Jake and Destiny sat quietly for the first fifteen minutes as they ate their food in silence. Jake had turned on the radio and they were listening to Enigma singing erotically through the speakers. The wind from the window that she had rolled down slightly was blowing softly in her blond hair. Jake couldn’t help but to glance periodically at the beautiful creature sitting beside him.

  Destiny sat beside Jake admiring his body out of the corner of her eye. ‘God he smelled so good, like leather and pine’ She thought. ‘I wonder how he really feels about Vickie? Stop it right now!’ she told herself. The harder she tried to ignore him and listen to the radio the harder it was to ignore him. Suddenly the radio switched off and she looked up to meet Jakes eyes as he had temporarily looked away from the road to meet hers.

  Oh god, he wants to talk.

  “Hope you don’t mind? I just thought we could talk for awhile.” He turned back towards the road and waited for a reply from his passenger.

  “So what would you like to talk about?” Destiny stuck her empty fry box in the paper bag and rolled the top into a tube. As she leaned forward to place the bag on the floor, she heard Jake shift uncomfortably in his seat.

  “Your name, Destiny, it’s very unusual. How’d you come by it? I mean who gave it to you?”

  Destiny turned in her seat and crossed her left leg in front of her. She noticed Jake watching her out of the corner of his eye. She smiled. And turned her head slightly to view the road in front of her briefly, than turned back towards Jake; this time he was looking at her directly, his eyes following the shape of her body from her legs to her face where she met his eyes with hers. “What are you doing? Keep your eyes on the road boy.” Destiny asked as she pointed her finger at the front window.

  “Sorry!” Jake turned his head in time to see he was starting to drift over the white line on the side of the road. He gently maneuvered the truck back in between the yellow and white line.

  “I’ll tell you if you promise to keep your eyes on the road.” Destiny sighed deeply as she realized they had just avoided a possible accident.

   Jake cursed himself silently. He never felt this out of control around a woman in his life and it was unnerving. “I didn’t mean to scare you.”

  “Do you promise?”

  “I promise.”

  “My mother and father had trouble conceiving a baby and when she finely did my dad opened his mouth and made the comment, ‘It must be destiny’ well when they found out they were having a girl my dad thought it would be neat to name me Destiny.” She looked up at her companion. “Sorry it really isn’t that interesting of a story.”

  “It suits you.” He glanced at her once again, eyeing her entire body until he met her eyes. He was caught.

  “You promised.” She saw him quickly look back to the road. “Why do you say that?”

  “I didn’t mean anything by it. I just thought….” He trailed off and sighed softly.

  “Thought what?” Her head was slightly bent to the right as she looked at him inquisitively.

  “Never-mind, it’s stupid”

  “You brought it up, not me. Now talk.” She said, with an Italian accent from ‘The Godfather’ the movie.

  “Okay boss.” Jake said with the same Italian accent glancing at her briefly.

  “Go on.” She smiled.

  “I just thought that a lot of men wouldn’t mind having you for their destiny.” Jake smiled sheepishly.

  “That’s so corny. Did you come up with that all on your own?” The corner of her mouth lifted slightly.

  “I’m serious, you’re very beautiful.”

  “You must really be tired.” She turned and looked out the front window for a second then turned back towards him, “or blind.” She commented as an after thought.

  “Why do you say that?” His smile was gone; a concerned look had taken its place.

  Destiny looked at him doubtfully, “You have a very beautiful girlfriend, and to say I’m beautiful too means your sticking me in the same class as Vickie, which I’m not. And I don’t pretend to be.”

  “Yes, Vickie is beautiful and so is your friend Lisa. However, I think you’re just as, if not more beautiful than either of them.”

  “You don’t have to flatter me Jake. I already like you.” She smiled.

  “I’m not trying to make you like me. I’m telling you the truth.”

  Destiny stared at him in shock. Okay maybe she was wrong. Maybe he was Jack the ripper, or some really nice guy who just wanted everyone around him to be happy. So why was he with Vickie? She is too self-centered for him. She would have to explore that question later. “Tell me something about your self?” Instead she changed the subject. 

“Okay! But I’m still going to think your beautiful,” He smiled at her. “And I’m not just saying it to be nice either.” He winked at her.

  “What would you like to know?” He asked.

  “How old are you?” Destiny asked.

  Jake turned and smiled at her again briefly. “I’m 24.”

  “Oh!” She turned back towards her window and put her fingers up to her mouth and began to chew on her fingernails. Damn any chance she had drawing him away from Vickie just flew out the window. She should have known anyway, Vickie and Lisa were both 22 and in collage and she was just freshly out of high school. What the hell was she thinking? She was no man stealer. She reprimanded her self silently for thinking such thoughts. Besides Vickie was mature and beautiful, what chance did she have?

  “Did I say something wrong?” Jake’s concerned voice rang through Destiny’s ears.

  “No!” She said immediately. “You’re just older than I thought.” Then she hoped was more like it.

  “And that’s a problem?” he half smiled at her.

  “No.” Destiny looked at the road in front of her. Excuse, she had to come up with an excuse why his age would disappoint her. She couldn’t tell him the real reason that would be certifiable. No she had to think of something and quick, than Jake spoke again.

  “How old are you?”

  “I’m seventeen.” She saw him wince.

  “If it makes you uncomfortable, having me ride with you.” She blurted out suddenly. “We could always pull over and I could trade places with Vickie.”

  “Why would you being 17 make me uncomfortable?”

  “I don’t know, maybe if you get caught transporting an underage person over state lines or something like that.” Destiny was trying hard to continue the charade.

  “First of all I doubt any cop would care and second of all I’m sure Brian and Lisa would vouch that my intentions are honorable.” He turned and smiled at her briefly again. “But for curiosity’s sake when will you be 18?”

  “In 3 days.” She brought her feet to the edge of her seat and rested her head on her knees and looked at him.

  Jake turned briefly as a sigh of relief left his chest. His breath caught as he looked over and saw the way she was admiring him. The sun had hit her body just at the right angle causing a golden hazy light to surround her. It was the strangest effect of the light he had ever seen. She seemed to be glowing. If he was to die at this moment, he would swear she was the angel god had sent down to retrieve him. He shook himself out of his revelry, he was still with Vickie and they were going to be married. But he found himself wondering if she would be interested in a one-night stand? Than cursed him self in the same breath. How could he even think about defiling such a beautiful creature for his own curiosity? He forced him self to look away as the truck hit the safety bumps on the side of the road that were designed to wake you up. Jake turned the truck back on the road and looked in the rear view mirror to see if Brian was behind him. No black Trans Am.

  “I think we should pull over and wait and see if Brian will catch up to us.” Jake saw a turn out on the side of the road. Of course if he really wanted to be honest with himself he really wanted to be able to look at her with out the worry of an impending accident hanging over his head. He turned the truck towards the turn off and slowly pulled over to the side of the highway. He placed the truck in park and turned in his seat to face Destiny. She rested her chin on her knees and looked out the front window. Jake reached forward and put his palm on her hair, unable to contain the urge to touch her. A surge of electricity shot threw him as the end of his fingers began to heat up. Destiny’s head came up and looked at him.

  “Did you feel that?” the look of shock on her face made her look more alluring, and Jake knew he matched her look.

  “Yeah” he shook his head to clear it. “Probably static electricity or something.” He reasoned.

  “Why did you do that?” She had felt a surge of electricity course through her. It was foreign to her; she had never felt anything like it before.

  “I don’t know.” He couldn’t possibly tell her that he had wanted to touch her since the first time he saw her. That he wanted to see if her skin was as silky as it looked. If her hair was as soft as it appeared. She had looked so small and fragile like a porcelain doll. He wanted to reach out and make sure she was real. He looked at his hand and the empty place it was touching before he pulled it back. “I’m sorry!”

  “No, I’m sorry. I haven’t been around to many guys by my self, so I guess I’m a little jumpy. I guess I kind of over reacted.” She looked at him apologetically.

  “Are you serious?” He asked. She was way to beautiful not to have had at least a dozen boyfriends. He looked at her mockingly; sure she was lying to him.

  “What would I have to gain by lying to you?” She looked at him with her eyebrows raised.

 “Beats me.” He shrugged his shoulders.

 Destiny found her self annoyed, what the hell was his problem anyway? Not every girl in the world had guys knocking down their doors like Vickie. “Look I just graduated from an all girls’ high school and my parents are so protective the first boy they actually let me be around besides my cousins was Brian and only after an interview…”

  “He had to go through an interview?” Jake interrupted.

  “Yeah! Anyway the only reason he was aloud around me was because he was Lisa’s boyfriend. I guess they figured if he already had a girlfriend he’d leave me alone. Than I met Vickie through Lisa and I went to a few parties with them, but Vickie never really liked me much, she always thought I was after her boyfriends or something. Actually they were using me to make Vickie jealous. I mean I don’t know for sure if that’s why they hung around me but I can only assume that that was the reason.”

  Jake wasn’t surprised that Vickie’s past boyfriends had tried to make moves on Destiny. If he wasn’t trapped by the succubus, he would do the same thing. Hell, he was just thinking how she would feel under him just a few minutes ago. Destiny was a rare diamond in a stream of quartz crystals. “So is that what you think I’m doing?”

  “Well aren’t you?”

  “I got better things to do with my time besides trying to get back at the biggest bitch of the year.” Jake said sarcastically. “Like getting to know you for example, I think you’re very interesting and I think you would make a good friend.”

  “You’re so weird.” She shook her head back and forth as a hint of laughter filled her voice.

  “You’re weird, and interesting.” Jake laughed at her.

  “Okay, so we’re both weird.” Destiny agreed.

  “You know, we could be waiting forever for them to catch up.”

  “Well Brian did say we would meet at that rest stop. Why don’t we just go there?”

  “Okay!” Jake agreed and stuck the truck into drive and pulled back on the road. He couldn’t believe she thought she wasn’t good enough to compete with Vickie, she not only was more beautiful than Vickie but she had a good personality, witty, and intelligent. She was the perfect woman.

  “So tell me a little about yourself?” Destiny shifted in her seat to face him.

  “You don’t want to hear about me, my life’s boring.”

  “Fair’s fair!” Destiny chimed.

  “Okay!” Jake glanced at her briefly before beginning. “I was born in Montana and was named after my dad.”

  “So does that mean you’re a junior?”

  “Yes I’m a junior, now are you going to listen or ask questions?” he glanced at her briefly raising an eyebrow inquisitively.

  “Sorry.” She smiled resting her head on her knees and looking up at him.

  “I lived in Montana until my father decided to move us all to California, I was 16 than. Anyway he decided to keep the ranch as a vacation estate. My older brother decided to stay there when he turned 18 and has been there ever since. He runs a tourist ‘get to know the country life’ thing. He brings people in from the city and takes them out on cattle runs and stupid stuff like that but he brings in enough money to keep the place going every year so I can’t complain that much. I was going to Oregon State University were I met Vickie last year and as they say the rest is history, or present, maybe future, anyway something like that.”

  “You’re rich?” She said as her head come off her knees and her feet landing on the floorboard. That would explain Vickie’s interest in him, not that he wasn’t cute enough, but they had to have money in order to remain permanent.  “Yeah, why?” He smiled at her cautiously.

  “Nothing, I was just wondering…” Destiny paused. “Never mind.” Destiny turned towards the window. It was none of her business anyway.

  “Wondering what?”

  Destiny shook her head slightly.

  “Tell me.” His voice forceful but he added a smile so he wouldn’t be to threatening.

  “Okay fine,” Destiny turned in her seat and looked at him. “Vickie always went for the older and well dressed type, if you know what I mean?”

  “No, I don’t know what you mean.”

  “Vickie loves money, and usually those types of men had it. They used her for a couple of months and than blew her off, she would always threaten to tell their wives but that never changed their minds. So when I saw her with you I thought she had finely grown up and realized money wasn’t everything.”

  “But now you think she’s with me for my money.” He asked.

  “Jake, that’s not what I mean.” Destiny knew she shouldn’t have said anything. She decided to try and fix her out burst. “She more than likely really loves you and cares deeply. I’m just distrusting because of the way she treats me because I have no money. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be making fast judgments on you guys based on our past experiences.”

  Jake placed his hand over hers and gave it a gentle squeeze. “Don’t worry about it. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t wonder about the same thing myself.”

  “Why do you stay with her than?” She stared at him inquisitively.

  “I’m not exactly sure!” Jake lied.                                                                                                            Destiny suddenly burst out with laughter. God she looked so beautiful, even when she laughed. It was one of those smooth husky laughs. He saw her eyes sparkling as a tear feel from one of them caused by her chorus of giggles. He knew the questions her laughter represented. Why did he stay with her if she made him unhappy? He knew the answer to that question. She was pregnant with his baby and he knew his baby would not grow up if he didn’t marry Vickie, she had threatened him that if he didn’t she would abort the child. He would marry Vickie and live the lie for his unborn child. And he also knew Destiny would never know the answer to that unspoken question if he could help it.

  Destiny turned and saw the sullen look on Jake’s face.  “I’m sorry.” She said “It’s just I suspected something different than the answer you gave me. You just caught me off guard.”

  “I think I should turn back on the radio before I say something else that’s stupid.” He gave her a smile and flipped the radio on.

  “Jake I didn’t…” Destiny chimed helplessly, concern in her voice.

  He smiled at her and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze before removing his hand from hers and placing it on the steering wheel. He looked straight a head not wanting to look at Destiny. He was afraid of what she would be able to read in his face, how unhappy he truly was with Vickie and how he wished they had never meet and most of all how easily he was lured into her web by her good looks and witches charm. They drove silently the rest of the way to the rest stop.

  Destiny wondered what had happened. They were having a conversation and than suddenly it all went bad. She couldn’t help but laugh at his answer it was the funniest thing she had ever heard in her life, how someone could not know why he would stay with someone else. For heavens sake she was expecting an answer like “I love her!”   Now she was sure he was mad at her and would not want her to ride with him any more. Oh well she thought. Vickie’s more than likely calmed down enough by know that she’ll want to ride with him again anyway. Destiny cursed her self for wanting to ride with him in the first place after all he was taken.

  They pulled into the last parking spot at the rest stop and waited silently for Brian and the two girls to show up. Destiny stretched her legs out in front of her as Jake rubbed the back of his neck. They both watched Brian pull into a parking spot by a little lime green building that housed the restrooms. Everyone piled out of the small little car and dashed inside.

  “Brian must have farted.” Destiny broke the silence hoping this little comic relief would help with the present circumstances. She looked over at Jake watching for his response hoping he would laugh at what she said to give her some reassurance he didn’t hate her. Not that it mattered anyway. She told herself.

  “Either that or Vickie did, man I never knew such a smell could come from a woman.” Jake turned towards her a devilish smile appearing on his face.

  Destiny was shocked and it took every bit of control she had not to laugh.

  “Come on now, I know that was funny.” He turned towards Destiny and his face was beaming with an ear-to-ear grin. Destiny exploded with laughter.

  “Why don’t we get out and stretch our legs?” He added. “Besides, my neck is killing me.”

  Destiny nodded and turned to open her door she heard Jake’s door open with a slow creek; she pulled the handle on her side and pushed the door open with one big push than hoped down and closed it. She joined Jake in front of the truck. He was standing slightly to the side of the hood rubbing his neck with hard rough motions she could tell it was really hurting him. She walked over and stopped in front of him. Jake’s blue eyes looking down at her.

  “I could give you a back rub if you would like?”

  “Sure, if you really want to…” And she knows how to give back rubs too? He asked himself. Damn she really was going to make some guy really happy.

  “Well I guess if I have to?” she winked at him.

  Jake smiled.

  Destiny looked up at him her index finger and thumb stroking her chin. “hmmmm….”

  “What’s the matter? Change your mind?” Jake raised an eyebrow inquisitively.

  “No!” She exclaimed shaking her head. “However, Huston we have a problem.” She quoted him a line from the ‘Apollo 13’ movie with Tom Hanks.

  “And what may that be my little astronaut?”

  Obviously he had seen the same movie. “I can’t reach your shoulders, your heads to far in the clouds.” She smiled mischievously.

   “Not a problem, my little comedian.” He reached down and grabbed her around the waist and turned and placed her gently on his truck. He felt the familiar rush of energy course through his body and go directly to his groin.

   “Thanks for the flight up here.” She said as she stomped on the desire rushing through her. As there eyes meet she felt her heart pound heavily in her chest. She found her self aware of every inch of her body, and how it had quivered under that mysterious energy. She also could not miss the desire in his eyes as he looked at her hungrily. She new it was wrong but she was curious if she could get him to the point that his desire over ruled his brain, finely she placed her hands on his shoulders and began turning him so his back would face her. “Okay stud, turn around.” She managed to choke out over her dry throat. She arranged him in between her legs and placed her hands closer to his neck.

  Destiny laid her hands high up on his collar bone and began to knead the tightness from those muscles, after working there for a few seconds she placed her thumbs on ether side of his cervical spine and began to move up applying even pressure. When she reached the nap of his neck she switched motion and began to move back down she repeated this motion a few times before she stopped and moved to his shoulders again. She heard him moan deep in his chest as the muscles loosened under her finger tips.

  “You know this would be easier if you took of your shirt.” She used the voice that Brian affectionately called her witches voice.

  She heard his voice catch and felt him swallow with the contraction of his muscles under her fingers. He didn’t audibly answer her but instead grabbed his t-shirt and pulled it off his Torso. Her breath caught at the sight of him, god he was well defined. He wasn’t overly buff but well built just the same.

  “Is that better?” he asked in a husky voice.

  Okay so she was playing with fire. But hell if she can’t have him she might as well enjoy him for a little bit.

  She put her hands back on his shoulders and began kneading them once more. Then she moved hoer thumbs to the bottom of his clavicle and brought them down to the bottom of his low back right above his jeans. Then she slowly and gently, just using her finger tips, brought them up his sides and repeated the action several times. She brought her hands to his shoulders kneading them gently once more then she leaned foreword and whispered in his ear.

  Jake was shocked at the reaction his body had to her touch. She was like some mystical witch. Forcing his body to react to her whether he wanted to or not. He felt her warm breathe on the back of his neck before he heard her seductive voice in his ear.

  “Feel better?”

  He turned their lips barley touching. The sweet smell of her breathe invading his nostrils, the glistening of her lips, the rhythmic movements of her breathes, and those stormy witches eyes heavy with desire. He leaned foreword and captured her lips with his, she was sweet and warm and soft, his head wheeled and spun out of control as if he were drunk. ‘You need to stop this!’ His inner voice screamed at him. He pulled away from her he could see that the storm in her eyes had grown more violent.

  “Yes, thank you.” He swallowed. “That feels a lot better.”

Suddenly a shriek rang through their ears and all thoughts of passion disappeared. Their heads flew up to see Vickie running up to the truck. Jake stepped forward to run interference.

  “What the hell is going on?” Vickie screamed when she had reached them.

  “Nothing!” He reached for Vickie’s hand to try and calm her. “She was just giving me a back rub.” 

  Destiny was damned if she was going to stay on that truck and let Jake protect her. She could stand her own ground with Vickie, she wasn’t afraid of that stupid cow. Besides it was all her fault for sticking them in the truck together in the first place, she should know how tempting it would be for any female to be around that man regardless of who they were or what they looked like. Mother Teresa her self would be tempted. She placed her hands on the hood and half slid and half jumped off. Than she planted her self beside Jake with her arms crossed, daring Vickie to say something to her.

  “That’s not what I saw.” She backed up from Destiny, crossing her arms in front of her.

  “Vickie it wasn’t what it looked like.” He pleaded with his eyes for her to believe him.

  Destiny saw Jake struggling to make Vickie believe him and realized that maybe she was wrong; maybe Jake really did love Vickie and the only reason he kissed her was because his testosterone had taken over. She knew perfectly well what her touches could do. Brain had called her hand witches hands because they put men into deep trances the only reason he was immune is because he thought of her as his baby sister instead of a woman.  “For heavens sake Vickie I just leaned forward to ask Jake to let me down because I was done. You don’t have to have a cow.”

  Vickie stood there for a few seconds and looked back and forth at Jake and Destiny mulling over whether or not she believed Destiny’s story. Jake looked at her with pleading eyes, begging her to believe them.

  “Go back to your babysitters,” Vickie turned towards Destiny. “I think Jake’s tired of the job.”

  “Now honey, that was uncalled for, you don’t have to talk to Destiny that way.”

  “My fiancée, sticking up for his lover?” She glared at him.

  “Vickie, damn it. We explained the whole thing to you and now you’re starting to piss me off.” Jake looked back at Destiny who was staring at him with disbelief. He couldn’t explain why he hadn’t wanted her to know about the engagement between him and Vickie. Perhaps it was because of the way she looked at him like a piece of top sirloin steak she wanted to devour, or maybe because simply he was a shammed to admit he got trapped the devil itself.

  Destiny couldn’t believe her ears. She turned to Jake to see if Vickie was telling the truth. Yep, sure enough there was her answer staring back at her. Now she was pissed. Damn him, if she had only known they were engaged she would have not offered him that back rub and challenged him to not react to her, to see if she could make him loose his head. Which she had accomplished quite well, god that kiss was mind blowing; she had fireworks going off in her head.

  She could tell that Jake saw the hurt in her eyes and she could see something that resembled misery in his. That’s curious! She mused to her self. She shook her head to clear it and looked away from him. She just couldn’t bring her self to care. He had lied to her. Well not lied to her exactly but didn’t tell her the extent of his and Vickie’s relationship. He was guilty by omission. 

  “Vickie’s right. It’s time for me to return to my babysitters.” She turned to Vickie. “Congratulations ice queen, you suckered in a good one this time.”

  “You just remember who he belongs to you little witch and we’ll get along.”

  Destiny turned and walked towards Brian’s car not evening honoring Vickie with a come back. If Jake wanted to be miserable being tied down to the little bitch than so be it, it’s his life, and the only part she would play in it from now on was travel companion, maybe friend but she had to think about it first.

   Jake watched Destiny walk away from him, the comment about witch took him back in his mind as relived that mind blowing kiss and her seductive voice. Her touches were magical and could render any man defenseless. She was a witch he’d swear on his mother’s grave. “You did that out of spite.” Jake accused as Vickie turned back to him after watching get in the back of Brian’s car.

  “So!” She smiled up at him.

  “Nothing’s set in stone, this trip is supposed to be our trial run. And just incase you haven’t figured it out, it isn’t going to well.”

  “Only because of that little whore.” Vickie’s voice was low so only Jake could hear. “Oh and Jake don’t think your special or nothing, she does that all the time, it’s a challenge for her.”                                                                                                                                     

  “First, of all she isn’t a whore, second, if she likes a challenge she wasn’t trying with me, she was just rubbing my neck because I complained of a headache.” It was partially true. He thought. Jake grabbed her upper arms and talked in a gruff voice. “Third, it hasn’t been going right for weeks and you know it; it has nothing to do with her. It’s all about you. Oh and Fourth, I wouldn’t do anything that would jeopardize the life of my child, Vickie. After all that is why I’m marrying you.”

  Jake saw the anger and hurt flash across her face. “I can’t even look at you, let alone talk to you right now.” Jake released her and started off towards the bathrooms.

  Jake stepped into the bathroom and saw Brian standing in front of the sink washing his hands. Jake walked up to the sink next to him and started to wash his hands also. Mainly because it was the safest thing he could do with them right now. He looked at him self in the mirror, he wanted to murder Vickie right now choke the breath right out of her. ‘What are you doing to your self?’ He asked his image in the mirror silently. ‘Trying to make any kind of a relationship work with that woman is either going to cause you premature death or 20 to life in the federal penitentiary for homicide? You’re a stupid fool.’ Jake lowered his head and sighed deeply.

   “You okay?” Brian asked his new friend.

  Jake‘s head popped up and looked at him. “Yeah, Fine.” He stood straight up and turned around resting his butt against the sink and crossing his legs and arms in front of him.

  Brian copied Jake and leaned against his own sink. “Women problems?”

  “Brian can I ask you a question?” Jake turned his head to look at his friend.

  “Sure!” Brian said hesitantly.

  “What would you do if you didn’t like the person you were with but you kind of didn’t realize it until you meet someone else. And than on top of all that the one you are with threatens to do something that you would not be able to live with if you left her.”

  “Is this about Vickie?”

  “Yes.”

  “Is the woman who has made you ‘see the light’ parse a cute little blonde with stormy gray eyes?” He winked at Jake.

  “Possibly!” Jake showed no emotion.

  “Well, I don’t know, I guess I’d find away to break the news to the person I didn’t care about and break it off with her. And just hope her own conscious would not permit her to follow through with the threat. True love only comes once in a lifetime and barely than. I guess you would have to follow my heart. ” Brian said.

  “But what if you couldn’t follow your heart? What if you new she had no conscious and this thing would break your heart if she did it?” Jake turned his head and looked down at his feet.

  Brain uncrossed his arms and legs and stood turning towards Jake. He saw Jake stand and turn towards him as well. “What’s wrong? Does Vickie have something on you? Is she blackmailing you or something?”

  “No! Just forget it.” Jake turned towards the row of stalls and walked towards them looking back at Brian briefly. “Do me a favor; tell Dessie that we need to talk and not to be mad at me until I can explain. I need her to understand why I didn’t tell her about Vickie and me.”

  “Are you sure you’re all right?” Brian voice carried concern.

  “Yeah!” Jake turned into the first stall and closed the door. “Just do that for me. Okay?” He spoke through the metal wall that separated him and Brian.

  “Sure!” Brian said with a confused look on his face.

  “Thanks.”

  Brian turned and left his friend in the restroom and walked out the building and saw Lisa leaning in between the two front seats talking to a very pissed off looking Destiny. He could tell they were having a heated discussion, more than likely over the same subject that got Jake talking in riddles. ‘What the hell happened while I was in the damn bathroom?’ Brian didn’t think he was in there that long.

  “Oh well, out of the frying pan and into the fire.” He said to himself out loud than sighed deeply as he shrugged his shoulders and began his involuntary journey towards his car.        

 

 

   Lisa came out of the ladies restroom and saw Destiny in the back of Brian’s car. She walked over to the Trans Am and opened the passenger side door and sat on the seat. She leaned to the side and peered around the seat and looked at her friend. Destiny’s arms were crossed in front of her and she had a look that could kill on her face.

  “What’s up?” She dared to ask.

  “Your friend’s a bitch.”

  “Yeah, so tell me something I don’t already know.”

  “She’s a lair too.”

  “Know that too.” Lisa countered.

  Destiny turned in the back seat and faced forward as Lisa turned in her seat and leaned between the two front seats to look at her. Destiny looked up at her friend waiting for the on slought that she knew was coming.

  “Tell me what happened.”

  “The bitch accused me of making passes at her fiancée.” Destiny’s voice rose with anger as she told of the events of just a few minutes ago. “After all it was her bloody idea for me to ride with him in the first place.” She added.

  “Did you?” Lisa raised an inquisitive eyebrow. “You perfected that little back rub of yours and even showed me how to use it on Brian, which works very well thank you. But that’s beside the point. I know you Destiny and you like to tease.”

  “For god’s sake it was just a back rub, and I don’t tease.” She was agitated and hurt.

  “All I meant is that you have a tendency to flirt. I don’t think you mean to, I just think that you are so used to it that you don’t realize your doing it.”

  “Thanks Lisa. So glad you’re on my side.” Destiny leaned her head back and closed her eyes. “I just wish she would stop jumping down my throat because she’s a bitch and her man can’t stand her.”

  “How do you know he can’t stand her?”

  “If he’s flirting with me and saying bad things about her, that only shows he can’t stand her.”

  “I thought you said there was nothing for her to get jealous about, it sounds like there is a lot for her to be jealous at.”

  “What ever, I don’t want to talk about it anymore. I’m tired of this whole thing. Do you know that there engaged?”

  “Yes, Vickie told us.”

  “How come I’m always the last one to hear about everything?” Destiny brought her head down and stared past Lisa and out the window.

  “You weren’t in the car.” Lisa raised her voice.

  “I said I don’t want to talk about it any more.”

  Lisa looked at her friend and realized that she wasn’t going to get any were continuing the conversation. She turned in her seat and looked out the front window than placed her seat belt over her body. Just than the driver side door opened and Brian sat down in the seat closing the door after him.

  “Is it safe?” He asked with obvious concern in his voice.

  “Of course it’s safe.” Lisa said as she turned to look at Brian.

  “Destiny, I ran into Jake in the restroom and he was pretty upset.” Brian turned in his seat to look over his shoulder at his friend.

  “So, why would I care?” She said angrily.

  “He just wanted me to tell you not to hate him until he can talk to you.”

  Destiny looked at Brian, “What ever could he want to talk to me about? He has a beautiful fiancée he can talk to.”

  “Don’t kill the messenger.” Brain felt the animosity rising with in her. It was thick enough to cut with a knife. When Destiny looked past him out the window, Brian turned towards Lisa but she didn’t look at him either. Brian turned forward again and saw Jake walking towards his truck he turned the ignition and his car purred to life. He looked in his rear view mirror and saw Jake climb into his truck and a few seconds later he heard the trucks engine roar to life. Brian waited for Jake to pull out and than pulled up behind him following him out of the rest area and back on the highway. Unfortunately, Brian knew this trip was going to be quite and very lonely, he reached down and turned on the radio searching for channels.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                       Survival of the fittest

 

 

                                                                Chapter

2.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They pulled into the Shasta Lake national park later that evening. The sun was low over the mountains to the east and the daylight was quickly fading into darkness. Brian followed Jake up a small hill towards a small campsite with two parking spaces a picnic table in front of a giant pine tree and a campfire pit. They parked their vehicles next to one another; and exited them in a disorganized fashion.

   Lisa went to the back of the Trans Am to unload their stuff throwing it towards Destiny as she caught each item and placed it by the picnic table. The boys walked over to Jake’s truck and began to unload the camping equipment. Vickie stood by Jake staring loathly at everything that had to be removed from its place of storage. She looked towards Jake and touched him gently on the shoulder her look of disgust never leaving her face.

  “I have to go to the bathroom.” She announced. “Would you like to walk with me.”

  “I’ve got work to do.”

  “There was a building marked restrooms down the hill towards the entrance.” Brian pointed down the gravel road to a brick building.

  Vickie glanced at Brain than looked back at Jake who was trying his best to ignore her and tossed her long red hair over her right shoulder, huffed in disgust and stormed off down the gravel road, mumbling to her self something about ‘breaking her nails unloading that crap.’

  “What was her problem? Did she need you to hold her hand or something?” Brian took his eyes off a pissed off Vickie and looked at Jake.

  “No, she wants to get out of doing some work and wanted me to entertain her as well, basically leaving the three of you to do the work by your selves.” Jake grabbed one of the tents and cared it over to the clearing that was provided for the purpose of setting up tents.

  “What a bitch!” Brian said under his breath than grabbed the other tent and took it over by Jake.

  Destiny and Lisa unloaded the back of Brian’s car. They had a pile of sleeping bags and duffle bags on the ground by the table and the cooler on top. Both girls were sitting on the bench drinking a pop and watching the guys unload the last tent and Jake and Vickie’s stuff. They walked over to the clearing where the boys were and stood by them as the boys stared at the stuff piled on top of one another. Lisa offered Brian a drink of her pop for which he gracefully accepted. Destiny offered her drink to Jake who smiled at her and took a drink than handed it back.

  “Thanks.” He said as she reached for the can, their fingers touching briefly, the familiar shock traveling up his arm. She was obviously not pissed at him anymore. He thought.

  Destiny smiled. Watching him ignore Vickie, it had sent a wave of triumph through her. She had decided that being mad a Jake was stupid and instead resolved her self to pissing off Vickie which was more satisfying than staying mad at Jake anyway.

  Jake turned towards Brian, “So where should we put Dessie’s tent?”

  “Well I was thinking we could put it between our tents. I think it would be safer and I wouldn’t have to worry about her being out here by her self.”

  Jake agreed.

  “I don’t need protection she protested.”

  “Look Dess, either your tent goes between ours or you’re going to have to sleep with Jake and Vickie.”

  “And if you do that she’ll bitch louder than she did when she caught you giving me a back rub.” Jake added.

  “Fine, what ever. Put my tent wherever.” She threw up her arms with resolve and walked away from both of them.

   Brian and Jake set up the tents while Destiny and Lisa started to make dinner over by the picnic table. Destiny’s tent went up easily, however the men had to recruit the girls when it came to their tents. They were way too big and required at least four people to raise the giant canvas pyramids. When everyone had finished wrestling with the tents they all stood back and admired their work.

  “Why don’t you guys go get some fire wood for tonight and we’ll load the tents up with the bags and get lunch…” Destiny paused briefly and looked at her watch. “Well I guess, it’s dinner not lunch.”

  “Come on Jake lets get going before it gets too dark and we can’t see.” Brian started off down a trail that was close by with Jake in tow.

  Destiny watched them disappear into the forest among the trees and then turned and walked to where Lisa had started to pull out dinner stuff. Destiny walked over to the pile of stuff they had left on the ground and proceeded to carry them to their perspective tents. When she was done she walked over and began to help Lisa with preparing dinner.

  “Is all the stuff put away?” Lisa asked.

  “I just put the stuff in side. I didn’t put anything away because I didn’t know where you guys wanted your stuff. But I got my stuff put away. I just threw Jake’s and Vickie’s stuff in side in front of the door.”

  “Well I got everything set up but I can’t finish until everybody gets back here. So how about we go set up my tent while we wait for everyone.”

  “I suppose it’s better than sitting and waiting.” Destiny shrugged her shoulders and followed Lisa to her tent.

  The two girls went inside Lisa’s tent and made the bedding and placing the duffle bags on their designated sides. How wonderful it would be to have someone to cuddle up with at night. Destiny sighed quietly as she mused herself with her thoughts. Lisa and her were sitting on the sleeping bags and looked at each other smiling with self satisfaction at a job well done. Then without speaking they both got up and went back over to the picnic table and opened the bag of chips.

  Vickie came trotting up the hill and noticed Destiny and Lisa doing something by the table. She walked over to them and peered over their shoulders and saw them placing the dinner items strategically on the table in the order people would need to make a sandwich. She looked around the camp sight and noticed the fire pit and a huge log lying down beside it. Vickie went over and sat down, pulled a nail file from her pocket and started to manicure the nail on her right index finger. Lisa turned towards her and crossed her arms in animosity towards her friend.

  “Hey! How about some help?” Lisa asked.

  “You two look like your handling it just fine with out me.” She looked up at Lisa and smiled. “Go about your work; don’t worry about me being bored.”

  “Get off your ass and help.” Lisa said more sternly.

  “God Lisa, blow a gasket.” Vickie said angrily.

  Lisa grabbed a butter knife that was near by and was preparing to throw it at her when Destiny grabbed her wrist to stop her. She shook her head slowly the corner of her lip turned up in a half smile.

 “She not worth getting the knife all bloody, besides you would just have to clean it when you’re done stabbing her which creates more work for you.” Destiny turned back towards the table and placed the stack of paper plates next to the bread.

  Lisa smiled at her friend and set the knife next to all the condiments.

  Vickie got up from were she sat and walked over to the table and reached under it and into the cooler, she pulled out a can of soda. Vickie walked to the end of the table and sat down placing her back against the edge of the top of the table and placed the rim of the can to her lips.

 “If you don’t want to help Vickie, than move your skinny ass, we’re trying to get your dinner ready.” Destiny lashed out. I swear she’s trying to pick a fight. Destiny told herself.

  Vickie’s eyes flashed as the color in her cheeks reddened. No one ever talked to her that way, not her friends and certainly not some little girl. She dropped her pop can and bolted from the bench. She grabbed Destiny’s hair pulling her away from the table and knocked her on the ground.

  “You whore, don’t you ever talk to me that way again!" Vickie screamed.

  “Why don’t you make me, bitch?” Destiny shot to her feet and glared at her attacker.

  Vickie flung herself at Destiny as Destiny moved to the side and pushed Vickie to the ground with one arm. Vickie grabbed Destiny’s leg and pulled it out from under her causing her to fall on her belly. Destiny flipped to her back as Vickie moved on top of her pinning her to the ground. She started scratching at her chest and face, what ever she could reach, than punched her in the side when she realized Destiny was covering her face. Destiny reached up grabbing her hair and pulling her off of her and to the ground than jumping on her, straddling her waist.

  Lisa rushed towards them and attempted to pull Destiny from Vickie. Destiny pulled back her hand that was balled into a fist getting ready to strike Vickie, when her elbow struck Lisa on the side of her face and knocked her down. Destiny jumped off Vickie and went to her friend. Vickie sat up and got to her feet and rushed at Destiny.

  “Watch out!” Lisa yelled grabbing her face with her hand.

   Destiny turned around just in time to see a fist coming towards her and ducked, it grazed her hair. Destiny stood to her full height taking a defensive posture and looked towards Vickie. If Vickie wanted to play, than she, was going to play. Vickie charged at her, Destiny stood waiting for her to get close enough so she could deliver her kick. Suddenly something tackled her from behind and pulled her to the side as Vickie went flying past her and into Brian’s arms he grabbed Vickie and held her tight.

  “Enough!” Jake’s voice rang past Destiny’s ear.

  Destiny realized she was still close enough she could probably get a good punch in. She squeezed her hand into a fist and started to pull back; she was just about to strike when she felt the strength of Jakes hand around her wrist.

    Vickie saw her opportunity open up as Jake grabbed Destiny’s wrist. Now or never she told her self than with all her strength she pushed against Brian and took a swing at her rival; only something was wrong. There was no flesh on flesh contact instead she felt a breeze of air as she suddenly turned away from her opponent.

   “Nope, no freebies for you.” Brian took her from the scene and put her in Jake’s truck “stay!” than went over to Lisa who was holding her cheek. He bent down and inspected her face.

  Destiny twisted in Jake’s arm struggling against him. His arms were like a vice. She couldn’t get him to let her go. She thought she would try the old fashion way.

 “Let me go!” She commanded and continued to struggle against Jakes grip.

  “Stop it!” Jake said calmly. He turned her towards him and forced her back against his chest as he crossed her arms in front of her chest limiting her movements. He had seen her fighting with Vickie and was pretty sure if given half the chance she’d give him a run for his money as well. She was a damn good fighter.

  “Let me go Jake!” she said between clutched teeth as she struggled against him matching fury with brute strength.

  “Not until you calm down.” He spoke softly.

  “I’m calm.” She said. He had no right to hold her like this. Her anger was slowly moving from Vickie to her fiancée.

  “I don’t believe you.” Jake smiled slightly as he spoke calmly to her.

  “Damn it Jake,” Her voice rose slightly, than lowered. “I said I was calm.”

  Jake turned her around placing her back against the big tree in the middle of their campground plastering her against it while holding her upper arms firmly. He looked at her admiringly. But still did not release her. He could not make himself let her go. He had hardly believed it when he and Brian had turned the corner to see her in an attack stance ready to kick Vickie half way across the campsite. If they hadn’t have gotten there in time Jake knew Destiny would have inadvertently caused Vickie to miscarry. To his surprise he was more worried about Destiny beating her self up over the death of a baby than anything else. After all it wasn’t her fault no one knew about the baby. However he did loosen his grip slightly, that’s when he noticed the red lines at the base of her throat and followed it down to the edge of her bra were her shirt laid folded back from her breast. He saw the hideous wounds wet with blood.

  “You’re bleeding!” He released one of her arms and touched the gentle slope of her chest with two fingers.

  “Courtesy, of your bitch.”

  She pulled back from his touch. It was hot like fire and made her insides melt with the longing for him. Desire welled up inside her, making her dizzy and unsure of her self. She looked up at her captor. Hoping to see it in him as well, but didn’t know why it was so important to her. His eyes fogged over as his lips parted slightly. Suddenly the realization of were they where and who they where with, broke through the haze that engulfed her.

   “Now will you please let me go so I can cover myself?”

  There was no way he was going to let her know that having her body so close to him drove him beyond desire for her. He could not get his body to obey him when she was around. His heart speed was up and his head felt light and his whole body surged with electricity at the slightest skin-to-skin contact. He had no choice but to let her go. Jake released his grip.

   “Thank you!” Destiny reached up and pulled the piece of hanging cloth over her half exposed breast. She turned away from Jake and walked over to where Brian sat pressing a cold cloth to Lisa’s cheek. She crouched down on her knees and looked at her friend.

  “I’m so sorry.” Destiny reached up and gripped Brian’s hand gently and pulled it away from her face revealing the soft glow of a newborn bruise. She winced noticeably and than placed Brian’s hand back to her friends face.

  “It wasn’t your fault, I should know better than to get in the middle of your fights.” She smiled.

  Destiny touched her friends shoulder and smiled back at her than turned towards Brian, he did not look at her. Boy was he pissed. Destiny turned away and stood up on her feet. She glanced towards Jake. Than turned and went to her tent.

  Jake walked up to Lisa and hunched down, balancing on the balls of his feet. “What happened?”

  Lisa slowly told the men how Vickie had come back to camp and had refused to help with dinner and how she attacked Destiny, than how Destiny had accidentally knocked her in the face when she was trying to hit Vickie.

  “The next thing I new, I landed over here and I saw you two show up and stop them from killing each other. I’ll tell you something Jake…” She paused briefly, taking the washcloth from Brian and holding it to her own face. “Vickie’s lucky you two showed up. Destiny’s would have seriously hurt her.”

  Brian and Lisa watched as Jake went over to his truck and pulled a sobbing Vickie from the passenger side of the vehicle and took her into his tent telling her to ‘Stop crying that it wouldn’t get her out of this one.’ Lisa turned towards Brian and looked up into his worried face.

  “I should go see if Dessie’s okay. I thought I saw some blood.” She reached up softly touched his cheek with love. “Will you tell everybody they can go ahead and eat? Destiny and I will join you in a minute.”

  “Sure sweetheart.” He kissed her gently on the cheek that wasn’t hurt and got up and went over to the table yelling at Jake to grab Vickie and come eat.

  Lisa got to her feet and walked over to Destiny’s tent; she paused momentarily at the entrance and listened to make sure Destiny had calmed down. Lisa knew that if she wasn’t calm yet there would be no sense in talking to her. Lisa heard a sound like someone punching a sleeping bag or something. She decided it would be better if she announced her presence first.

  “Destiny?” She called to her friend. “Can I come in?”

  “Yeah! Come in.”

  Lisa opened the flap of the tent and stepped inside. She saw Destiny sitting on her sleeping bag only in her bra. She had the sleeve of the discarded shirt to her chest and was trying to mop up the blood. Lisa went to her side and put the damp cloth that she had used for her cheek and started to wipe the dried blood from Destiny’s wounds.

  “Did you eat yet?” She took the cloth from her friend and finished the task at hand.

  “No.” Lisa turned her body as she sank down on the corner of the sleeping bag.

  Destiny brought her legs up and rested her arms on her knees, the washrag dangling from her fingers. She looked at her friend and sighed deeply.

  “I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean for you to get hurt.”

  “I know. It’s okay, don’t worry I’m not mad.” She threw her arms around Destiny’s neck and hugged her friend tightly.

  “No, but Brian is.”

  “He’ll get over it.”

  Destiny patted her back than stood up pulling Lisa’s arms from her neck and stood. She walked over to the side of the tent were her duffle bag sat, bent over and took a gray sweatshirt with the caller cut out. She placed it over her head pulling it down over her body the bottom reached her knees. She walked back over to her friend and helped her to her feet.

  “Hungry?” Destiny asked.

 “Ya, lets go eat before those guys eat everything.”

 

 

 

  Jake walked to the truck and opened the door. Vickie looked up at him crying hysterically. Jake grabbed Vickie by the arm and dragged her from the truck. He slammed the door and led her towards their tent. He was angrier than a pit viper.

   “Stop that damn crying. It won’t get you out of this one.”

   He pulled her past Brian and Lisa to their tent and deposited her on the floor in the center of their tent. Jake looked around and noticed their stuff off to one side of the door. He realized nothing had been done. More than likely, his lazy girlfriend wasn’t even the one who brought their stuff inside. He had to thank the girls when he was done. Jake’s fury rose as he looked at his fiancée who was looking at him loathingly.

  “So what happened?” Jake struggled to keep his voice low.

  “What do you mean? She attacked me, Jake, she started it.” Vickie said matter of fact.

  “That isn’t what I heard.” Jake stared at her.

  “Look at my hair.” She grabbed her hair and shook it at him. “And my nails, the bitch made me break my nails do you know how long it takes to grow these things?”

  “From what I saw you broke those things on her skin when you scratched her.”

  “So, I had to defend my self and our baby.”

  “Like you care.” He said sarcastically. “Do you realize that if we hadn’t come back when we did, Destiny would have caused you to miscarry? If I was smart I wouldn’t have gotten involved that way I wouldn’t be saddled with your mean selfish ass.”

  Than realizing he didn’t want to get in it with her about the baby and how she almost caused it to die with her stupid shenanigans. He decided to change to something else that was bothering him. For some reason, Vickie wanted that little tid bit of information about the baby, not to get out.

  “How come our stuff isn’t laid out?”

  “Because Jake, your little pet hit me before I could get in here and do anything.” Vickie shimmed out of her dirty shirt revealing a white tank top.

  Jake rolled his eyes. If he had to listen to one more lie he was going to loose his temper. “I don’t know for sure what happened, and frankly I don’t really care. As far, as I’m concerned you both started it and you both deserved what you got. However I expect our stuff to be laid down and set up in our tent within 15 minutes. I also expect you to clean up after dinner since you were gone when everyone else was helping to get this place set up.” Jake crouched down so he could meet her gaze directly. “Do I make my self clear?”

  “You bastard!” She said between clutched teeth. “Your little whore almost killed me and you expect me to carry out wifely duties, now.”

  “It looked to me like you were holding your own.” Jake smiled smugly.

  “So! I was lucky.” Vickie returned his look with a smirk.

  Jake stood up and walked over to the front of the tent. He had one foot out the flap when he turned slightly to look at the woman sitting on the plastic floor.

  “I expect this stuff done before you eat.” As he turned to leave he heard her muttle something under her breath. He ignored her and continued towards the picnic table were Brian and the other two girls were sitting, eating there sandwiches.

  “Come on Jake, dinner’s ready.” Brian called.

  Jake went over and sat next to Brian. He made a sandwich while Destiny reached under the table and pulled a soda from the cooler. She offered it to Jake with a smile.

  “Thanks!” He took the cold drink from her. “Dessie, I’m sorry about having to…”

  Destiny interrupted him. “It’s okay Jake, I’m actually glad you stopped me. I was ready to kill her at any cost and jail doesn’t seem as appealing as a ranch.” She smiled trying to ease his anxiety.

  The four heard a sound coming from Jake’s truck as the front door slammed shut. Vickie had a couple of duffle bags that were left behind in her arms. Vickie made her way back to the tent. They watched as she stumbled over the lip of the entrance and fell inside, her feet sticking out the door.

  “Are you okay?” Brian yelled.

  “Like you care.” She snorted back at him. Than drew her feet inside the tent.

 

   “Now that kind of reminded me of that scene in the ‘Wizard of Oz’ when the house fell on the wicked witch and only her feet were sticking out than after the ruby slippers were removed how they curled up and went under the house.” Destiny smiled at Brian who smiled back at her.

   “What is it with you and movies?” Jake asked.

   “Movies kind of fill the void when you have no life, Jake.” She turned her attention back to her sandwich.

  Jake couldn’t help but wonder what Destiny’s life was like. She almost painted a picture of her life being like that princess that was locked in a tower. God now he was comparing life with movies. Amazing.

  They had returned to their meal with no further conversation. Vickie soon joined them planting her self next to Jake. Destiny looked at her from across the table and felt shameful for what had happened. No not shameful but she defiantly wanted to make amends for Lisa’s sake. Destiny put her hand on Vickie’s; everyone at the table stopped what they were doing and looked at both of them, Jake and Brian getting ready to intercept if another fight broke out. Destiny smiled. Was she really that threatening? Well, she supposed she was. Good! She smiled even more.

  “Vickie I’m sorry. That fight should have never happened. And I shouldn’t have said those things.”

  Vickie yanked her hand away from her and stared at her for a long moment. Than smiled. “I forgive you, but next time, you’ll have to work much harder to receive my forgiveness.”

  “That’s it, no apology for the way you acted?” Lisa blurted out.

  “For the way I acted?” Vickie couldn’t believe her ears. Did they actually expect her to apologize for something she didn’t even start?

  Jake opened his mouth to say something when Destiny interrupted him.

  “Don’t waist your breath Jake. I wasn’t expecting anything from her.” Destiny turned lifting her legs up and over the bench than stood and walked to the garbage sack by the cars and dumped her plate. She went back to her tent disappearing inside. The three turned towards Vickie and looked at her in disbelief.

  “What?” Vickie asked her voice highly pitched.

  “Sorry Jake.” Brian looked at his friend. “I lost my appetite.” He stood and walked over to the garbage, dumped his plate than went over to the fire pit and started building a fire.

  Lisa shook her head at Vickie than shrugged her shoulders at Jake in apology. She stood up from the table and grabbed her plate and started to walk to the garbage.

  “Wait I’ll go with you.” Jake stood up as well and him and Lisa went and dumped their plates. They both walked over to Brian, Lisa sitting herself on the log and Jake helping with the fire.

  Vickie glared at her so-called two friends and fiancée. How dare they think she owed that man stealer an apology, after all she was the one that started it, telling her to move her ass. If it weren’t for her wanting her so called friends to come on this trip, she wouldn’t have had to put up with their crap, that’s for sure. And another thing Jake would be catering to her rather than dictating orders. She knew who that little hussy that Lisa insisted on bringing was at fault, she knew she should have said no but she was trying to be considerate of Lisa’s feelings. Well, that just goes to show you how not to go out of you’re way for somebody; because you might just get dumped on. She turned back to her sandwich and ate in peace just like she liked it.

  Jake stood and looked at his two newfound friends, he wondered what the hell they saw in Vickie to become her friends in the first place, hell he wondered what he saw in Vickie to become her lover in the first place. Must have been one of those beer nights when he was six sheets to the wind. He reasoned with him self. But no, if he wanted to be honest with himself, she was the sexiest girl on campus and his stupid pride wouldn’t allow him to have anything less, the voice in his head yelled at him. Now he was going to be stuck with this, she devil for the rest of his life and for what, so he could say he had the prettiest girlfriend on campus. God he was such an idiot.

  “I think I’m going to go for a walk.” He announced to his companions. Maybe fall off a cliff. He added to himself.

  “Are you sure? It’s getting dark?” Lisa pointed out.

  “I need to cool down before I really do something I might regret later.” He replied. “Don’t worry about the dark; I have a flash light in the truck.”

  He had never come so close to hitting a female in his life. It was wrong and immoral, not to mention his dad threatened to kick his ass if he ever did. Nope, until Vickie, he had never even wanted to, they never gave him a reason to. Now… he needed to cool down before things got out of control.

  “That’s a good idea Jake I know exactly what you mean. See in a while.” Brian agreed.

  “See ya!” Jake said as he headed down a trail that was close to their camp.

  “What the hell was that?” Lisa asked angrily.

  “Honey, I only said that so the poor guy didn’t twist him self up in knots over wanting to kill his fiancée, after all I’ve been wanting to kill her for years.”

  Lisa’s anger disappeared to a smile, giggling with pleasure. They both laughed quietly. Careful not to let Vickie over hear them. They saw Destiny coming from her tent dressed in nothing but a sweatshirt and had a towel draped over her shoulders. She approached them with a grin.

  “What’s so funny?” She asked.

  Lisa looked up at her friend. “I’ll tell you later. So where are you off to?”

  “I’m going swimming in that lake down there.” She pointed to a brown sign at the bottom of the hill. “I need to relax after today.”

  “Okay sweetie, if you think that’s safe?” Brian said.

  “I know how to swim;” She said with a smile, “Besides if I drown, Vickie will be happy.”

  “I got a better idea how about you take Vickie with you and drown her?” Brian teased.

  Lisa nudged him harshly. Than turned to look at him. “What are you doing putting ideas in her head?” She turned back towards Destiny with a smile.

  “Have a nice time dear. Don’t forget to grab the flashlight from the car. It’s under my seat”

  “Yes mother.” She replied sarcastically at her friend’s motherly tone.

  Destiny walked by Vickie who looked at her for a few minutes.

  “Are you nude underneath that shirt?”

  “No.” She lifted her shirt and revealed a black bikini. A few seconds latter she dropped her shirt and after grabbing the flashlight, headed down the hill to the lake.

  Lisa and Brian burst out laughing as they saw a disappearing Destiny round the corner. They scooted closer to one another and Brian’s arm draped Lisa’s shoulder as they stared at the fire hypnotically. The romantic interlude was broken by the pouty voice of Lisa’s friend as she sat down.

  “I don’t know what every ones problem is? After all she’s the one trying to steal my man.”

  “She’s not trying to steal Jake.” Lisa sighed. “And it started because you wouldn’t help any of us get set up today.”

  “So I invited you guys to come. You wouldn’t even be here with out me.” She turned towards the couple and gave them her most ‘feel sorry for me look’.

  “We didn’t come to be your slaves we came to work on Jake’s ranch.” Brian said angrily.

  “Well guess who’s going to be the owner of that ranch in August?” Vickie retorted.

  “Jake!” Brian exclaimed.

  “No, me.” Vickie said matter of fact than stood and walked to her tent were she disappeared.

  “Thank goodness that’s gone.” Brian huffed.

  “Sweetheart?” Lisa put her arm around his back and started to trace his spine with her finger.  “After the sunset, I’ll take you in our tent and make you forget all about Vickie.” Lisa said intimately.

  Lisa leaned her head against his shoulder as they both turned towards the sky. The sun had painted the clouds a beautiful pink and orange that was slowly slipping into a purplish blue. The backdrop was the sky and mountains. It was the most beautiful sunset they had ever seen. When the sun had finely faded behind the giant mountains they stood and walked hand and hand to there tent were they made a scene of beauty themselves.

 

 

 

 

 

   Destiny walked down the narrow path and to the lake, the sun was setting and she was beginning to have second thoughts about going into the water. Dark water wasn’t really that appealing especially when you didn’t know what was in the water. But her muscles hurt and she needed to do something to get rid of her anger and swimming was usually what did it.

  She saw a tree close to the lake with a low branch, she walked over and hung her towel on the branch than pulled her sweatshirt over her head and hung it next to her towel. Destiny walked to the edge of the lake and stuck her toes in. It was cold. She walked back to the shore and looked at the water wondering if maybe this wasn’t such a good idea.

  Destiny threw caution to the wind and ran up to the water, closing her eyes; she slowly sank into the liquid. Ice fingers nudging her to go further, she was waist deep in the frigid water now. Might as well get the rest of you wet. The little voice in her head replied to her hesitation. Destiny leaned forward and let the water in gulf her body, supporting her with its cold hands. She began to glide in the gentle current, doing the breaststroke as the sun seeped over the mountains and the landscape was plummeted into darkness.

  Destiny stopped at the buoy line indicated that to go further would mean curtain death by getting hit with a boat. Of course that was only the danger during the day, who knows what dangers lay out there during the night. Destiny decided to stay in the designated swimming section. She smiled at her self and started to swim the other direction back to shore.

  Her pain had melted away from her muscles and her mind was clear of sadistic thoughts towards Vickie. She no longer wanted to kill her, just maim her a little. She tried to direct her thoughts towards the beautiful scenery and how nice it would be if she could share it with Jake. But Jake didn’t belong to her and she knew it was wrong for her to want him she just wished she could make her body understand what her brain already knew.

  Destiny came closer to the shore with every stroke until she could stand, than she walked slowly to the sandy edge. Suddenly she noticed a figure standing on the beach watching her as she reached the edge of the water. Her pulse quickened and her blood ran cold as she prayed the figure was Brian or Lisa. If it was Vickie she was sure to go back to camp with some damage equaling the damage she would afflict of course. But if it was a stranger, she would not be able to hold off an attack with a knife or worse a gun.

  “Brian is that you?” She asked through the fear welding up inside her.

   Destiny stopped and waited for an answer. ‘You could always go back into the water and swim to the other side.’ She told herself. It wasn’t that far and she had gone further. The cold sank deep into her skin and she began to shiver uncontrollably.

 

 

 

 

Jake had been walking for what seemed like hours but he knew it had only been maybe fifteen minutes. He had finally came to a point on the trail were you could continue on the same path and go further up towards the mountains or take a new path that went down. He did not know were the new path went, but it did go down and Jake knew he was tired of going up. Besides it was getting dark and he would have to head back soon. Thank goodness he had his flashlight. That thing came in handy more times than he could remember. He turned and walked down the new path.

  He was beginning to wonder if maybe it wasn’t such a good idea to stray from the other path after all. He had been walking for several minutes through a rough and unkempt trail He knew he should have just turned around and headed back the way he had come. It was dark now and he had to use his flashlight to see where he was going. He cursed himself as he stumbled his way through the trees and brush.

  “You just had to go exploring at night you stupid idiot.” He spoke out load to himself.

  Jake saw a clearing up ahead and was so ecstatic of being free from the trees he had to make a conscious effort not to run. He emerged from the brush and noticed a beautiful lake in front of him. He calmed instantly as he realized were he was. This was the lake they saw through the trees as they drove into the park. He was only a few minutes from his campsite.

  As Jake made his way towards the trail that led back to the camp grounds he noticed a towel and sweatshirt hanging on a near by tree. He walked over and inspected the article of clothing. ‘It looked very similar to the one Destiny was wearing at dinner’ He thought. ‘What the hell is she doing out here alone?’

  Jake turned and began to scan the landscape for her when his eyes fell upon a beautiful creature coming out of the lake. Her skin glittered in the moonlight like it was covered with silver specks all over; her beautiful long hair clung to her body like a sleek silver glove. She was walking out from the water so elegantly; Jake could swear she was some mythical creature emerging from the depths of Atlantis. ‘A water sprite’ He thought. 'Or a mermaid’ She stopped as she reached the edge, as if she could not step on land or she would fade from existence.

  “Brian is that you?” Destiny’s silky voice rang out from the waters edge.

  Jake’s breath caught as he realized who it was and his heart flipped in his chest as he came to the realization this vision was reachable and very attainable all he had to do was reach for her. He knew she wanted him. he could see it in her eyes every time she looked at him and they touched. Damn, he had felt the same liquid fire rush through his own body when ever she came close to him.

  “It’s me, Jake.” He reached behind him and grabbed the towel from the tree as Destiny began to walk towards him.

  “You scared the hell out of me.” She said through chattering teeth and smacked him on the shoulder.

   He threw the towel over her shivering body. “sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.” They walked together to the tree where her sweatshirt still hung. Jake turned and grabbed the shirt from the limb, turning towards Destiny and handed her the over sized sweatshirt.

  Destiny let go of her towel allowing it to slither down her body and hit the ground. Jake gasped as the moonlight hit the scratch marks ripped into Destiny’s skin. She looked like a cougar had attacked her, but it was no cougar that blemished this lovely women, it was his demon that looked like a human and went by the name of Vickie. His anger flooded every part of his body all over again.

  Jake reached up and touched the hideous marks with his finger tips as anger and anguish appeared on his face. He looked down into the face of elegance in front of him. The smile she gave him was like an angel telling him that everything would be okay. He bent down and kissed the marks gently with his lips. Her cold skin warmed under his touch.

  Destiny gasped with astonishment as she felt the now familiar fireworks go off in her head. She reached up with her hand and touched his cheek. He looked up at her through long black eyelashes that should be a sin for any man to own. Her lips parted in silent invitation for him to come up and kiss her. She saw his eyes close briefly than he stood straight and looked at her.

  Jake stepped back and handed her the sweatshirt. He watched it slip down her body. Than she reached up behind her pulling her silver gold mane from underneath the shirt and brought it over her shoulder as she leaned forward and rung it out. She stood straight up and put her hands under her shirt and removed her bathing suit top. She dropped it next to her towel than crossed her legs as she sank down and sat cross-legged.

  “I did I startle you?” Jake sat beside her. He noticed her confused look. “When I kissed your chest?”

  Destiny swung her legs in front of her and leaned back on her hands, her hair falling back away from her shoulders. She looked at him seductively. Than tipped her head back and looked up at the stars.

  “You didn’t scare me.” There was no way she was going to tell him that she was hoping he would kiss her. After all he had a beautiful woman waiting for him in his tent why in the world would he want to kiss her for? He had only kissed her chest out of some strange need to sooth her. He was probably going to end up like Brain, The lost older brother she never had. She sighed deeply, imagining what it would be like to be wrapped in his arms, to feel his lips on hers. Than cursed her brain for even going there.

  Jake studied her body, her curves, her perfect little feet, and her hair that shown silver gold in the moon light. The water droplets glistening like diamonds as the beams of light hit them. A light fog descended the beach from the lake, the mist surrounding her body giving her an image like a dream, like she could disappear suddenly without warning. Jake cursed himself, as the desire swelled in every cell of his body and he grew hard under his jeans. “Damn it Jake!” He murmured under his breath.

  “What?” Destiny’s head turned sideways to look at him.

  “Uhhh… I said I’m sorry about what Vickie did to you.” Jake recovered quickly.

  “Don’t apologize for her, Jake.” She turned her head back to the sky and closed her eyes as the cool wind rushed over her body.

  Jakes heartbeat quickened and his blood ran hot with desire. Oh Yeah, he was going to do something stupid. He could all ready feel his body moving like he no longer commanded it. He crawled over her straddling her legs, her head slowly moved down to meet his eyes; He took a breath and froze waiting for her reaction of disapproval. It never came.

   Destiny looked in his eyes, her father always said they were the windows to a person’s soul, and she wanted to see Jake’s, they glistened silvery blue and were misted over. The look on his face was enough to cause her blood to race at a fevered pitched through her body. The tip of her tongue dragged across her bottom lip as she felt the desire moving with in her. 

  This last movement with her tongue made Jake loose total control of his body. He brought his hand to the back of her neck tilting her head back as he leaned forward and captured her lips with his, softly kissing her. They melted together, her body coming up to meet him, his body sinking towards hers. Her tongue probed his lips just at their edge tasting him. She laid down on her back her eyes heavy with hunger.

  She reached up and placed one hand on the back of his neck and the other on his side than gently pulled him to her. Her knee bent as his leg fell between her legs. She could feel him hard on her inner thigh. She groaned uncontrollably as her flesh heated under Jake’s body, desire filling her completely as the tingling grew in the feminine part of her body.

  Their kisses grew deep and heavy as Jake moved his hand under her shirt and cupped her breast with his palm. His hand was so warm on her skin she felt herself melting under his gentle assault. Destiny moved her hand to Jake’s back, pressing him against her body.

  Jake released her lips and buried his face in her hair, he moaned softly as he kissed the sensitive part right below her neck. His breathing became staggered and his head whirled with dizziness. “God, why do I want you so much?” He asked, huskily in her ear.

  Suddenly Destiny found her self-waking up from her trance and she moved her hands to his chest and gently pushed him away from her. Was she crazy, he only wanted to get back at Vickie, It had nothing to do with her, yet here she was willing to risk everything, her friendship with Lisa, her summer away from her well meaning but suffocating parents, for what? A one night romp in the moonlight.

   ‘Why the hell did she do that?’ he thought. ‘How dare she bring me this close to the edge and than just stop? Doesn’t the damn fool woman know what that does to a guy?’ She had to know; she sure in the hell was experienced enough to know. Jake had no doubt about her experience level no matter what she had said in the truck about not being around guys. Any woman who could bring him to full arousal just by looking at him seductively had to be experienced. That wasn’t even including the way she kissed him. He was angry and he didn’t care if it showed in his face or not. What right did she have to do that to him? He suddenly realized he was mostly angry because he had finely felt what it would be like to be with her, and she had taken it from him before he was ready to give it up. She was like a toy he couldn’t have.

  The forbidden fruit.

   “No, Jake we can’t.” Destiny sat up and pulled her sweatshirt down just above her knees.

  “Why the hell not?” He asked angrily. He was confused and a little hurt. He didn’t understand why all of a sudden she turned so cold against his touches.

  “You belong to someone else. You’re engaged to another woman and I’m no man stealer.” Destiny hoped she sounded calm. If he thought he was the only one hurting over this crazy attraction, he was dead wrong.

  Jake moved the rest of the way off of her and sat beside her, his legs hanging over hers. She sighed deeply than laid back on the ground and placed her hands on her belly weaving her fingers together. She watched the stars in between the leaves of the trees that covered the forest floor with darkness. She laid there for fifteen minutes just staring at the stars trying to reason with her body that these feelings were wrong. She felt him watching her. She finely sat up and raked her hands through her hair; her eyes lifted and met Jake’s. Destiny could read the desire and hurt still lingering on his face.

  “God, does everything you do have to be so damn sexy.” He reached up and touched her cheek. Jake realized why she couldn’t make love to him and he couldn’t blame her, He didn’t want this to be a one night stand either, But he knew deep down that that’s what it would have to be either that or summer affair, but neither of the scenarios would do. She wasn’t that type of girl.

   Destiny moved her hand to his and gently removed it from her cheek, she kissed his palm than guided it down to the ground. She sighed heavenly than grabbing his ankles, lifting them off her legs.

  “Come on Jake time to go.” She stood up and grabbed her bathing suit and the corner of her towel; she looked at Jake waiting for him to get off the end of the terry cloth so she could bring it the rest of the way up. He twisted off the towel as Destiny pulled on it and brought it up to her; she finished rolling it into a neat tube and stuck it under her arm. She stepped into her tennis shoes, folding her arms in front of her chest and waited for him to rise.

  Jake stood and dusted his jeans off. “Sorry.” He said softly.

  “For what?” She chuckled, relaxing her arms.

  “I didn’t mean to loose control like that. It’s just for some reason when I’m around you my head rebels against my better judgment.” He looked up into her stormy gray eyes, they were soft and welcoming.

  “Don’t worry too much about it Jake, my reasoning goes out the window just as fast as yours does.”

 “At least you’re able to stop yourself, I on the hand would be far too happy to continue were we left off just moments ago.” He took the towel from her, than reached down and took her hand lacing his fingers in hers, she went to pull away but Jake gripped her hand tighter. “I just want to hold your hand.” He winked. “Just incase you tripped or something I could save you.”

  Destiny nodded in agreement, as she recognized the familiar surge of energy. What would be the harm in it anyway? It’s not like they were betraying anybody, it was just hand holding for crying out loud.

  They walked silently to camp following the beam of light from Jake’s flashlight. Jake walked her to her tent than bent down to capture her lips with his when she stopped him with an index finger.

  “Please don’t do this to me.” Her voice was shaky and quite. “I can’t handle this. I want you too much. It’s not fair for either of us to continue in this way Jake.”

  He looked at her begging with his eyes. He just wanted one last kiss before she went to bed. He paused briefly before the reality of what he was asking hit him like a ton of bricks. What the hell was he thinking his fiancée was in the tent next door? If Vickie saw them together she would freak out. Jake noticed the tip of one of Destiny’s wounds peaking out from the sweatshirt. She would hurt Destiny all over again. No Destiny was right this could not happen.

  “I’m sorry my little witch, it’s just you’ve put a spell on me. And I seem to not be able to control my desire around you.”

  “Well Brian always told me I had the witches touch.” She smiled. “I better get inside before something happens that we both will regret in the morning.”

Jake bent down and kissed her on her lips before she could object. “Good night,” ‘my Destiny.’ Jake gently moved her inside then he closed the flap to her tent and zipped it up for her.

  Jake walked over to his tent and unzipped the flap than slipped inside and zipped it back up. He turned off his flashlight than crawled into the sleeping bag he shared with Vickie. Vickie turned to him and put her arm over his waist and pulled him close to her. He turned over on his other side and looked into her face.

  “I’m sorry honey, I was wrong to have done what I did and I’ll apologize to Destiny first thing in the morning.” She reached up and touched his cheek with her hand.

  Jake leaned forward and kissed her gently on the lips. They embarrassed each other as Jake closed his eyes and tried to forget the images of Destiny that were running through his mind. He finely gave up and just pretended to be making love to the girl who had turned his world upside down.

 

 

  Destiny lay in her sleeping bag looking up at the blue ceiling of her tent. She had been tossing and turning all night long. Ever since Jake dropped her off at the tent. She could not get him out of her mind no matter how hard she tried. It was like he crawled into her skin and took up residence in her brain. And he was damn annoying! Her body still tingled from the memories of her dream about him and the lake.

  Destiny sat up as the smell of bacon hit her nose, her tummy grumbled hungrily. She quickly jumped out of her sleeping bag and threw on her sweatshirt that she had worn last night. It brushed by her nose as it slipped past her head; it still smelled like Jake. Destiny grabbed the matching sweatpants out of her bag and put them on. She slipped her shoes on and unzipped her tent and went out side.

  She saw Lisa standing over a Coleman stove a few feet from the fire pit. Lisa was stirring some eggs on one side of the stove and bacon sat sizzling in another pan on the opposite side. Brian sat on a log in front of the fire tossing little twigs into it. Jake stumbled out of his tent and glanced up at Destiny momentarily than sat down next to Brian and began to engage him in conversation.

  Destiny walked over to Lisa and stood there watching her for a few moments. The smile planted on her face told her exactly what kind of night she’d had. Destiny just smiled at the vision of her and Brian trying to get it on with Vickie in the next tent throwing a fit.

  “I don’t know how you do it?” Destiny asked her.

  “Do what?” Lisa put some eggs on a plate and cracked some more eggs in the pan and began to scramble the yokes vigorously.

  “Have sex at night and get up early in the morning and make breakfast.” She smiled at her friend.

  “Destiny,” Lisa pushed her chest gently with the end of the spatula. “you have a dirty mind.”

  “It’s only as obvious as the smile on your face.” Destiny smiled than stole a piece of bacon and walked off to sit next to Brian.

  “So I hope your night was just as pleasant as Lisa’s?” Destiny shoved him playfully.

  “How do you know what we did last night?” Brian shoved back playfully.

  “It’s elementary, dear Brian.” She smiled while pretending to hold a pipe in her hand.

  Brian stood and picked up Destiny and laid her down on the ground, straddling her hips and tickling her until she burst with laughter. Destiny tried to push him off her mockingly as she rolled on the ground with uncontrollable laughter. Brian smiled as he continued to torture his victim joyfully.

  Jake watched, a smile growing on his face. ‘Vickie would never allow me to do that in a million years. How fun it must be to have Destiny around you all the time. She’s witty, she’s fun, not to mention very sexy.’ Jake still remembered the kiss from last night, the way it had made him feel to have her wrapped in his arms. The way she responded to him as if it was the first time she had ever been touched that way. Was she a virgin? No, she was so beautiful; there was no way she had gone so long with out being touched by a man. Besides, she knew how to get his blood boiling and no virgin would know those tricks.

  “Hey when you two are done playing, breakfast is ready.” Lisa fixed her plate and went over to the table and sat down to eat.

  Brian stood up than helped Destiny to her feet. They walked over to the stove with Jake and filled up the paper plates that where sitting on the little wood shelf next to the stove. They left enough over for Vickie than they walked over to the table and sat down with

Lisa. Not very long after, they heard Vickie stumble out of her tent. She began to walk towards them.

  “There’s some breakfast on the stove if you’re hungry.” Lisa pointed to the little stove.

  “Thanks!” Vickie replied. Than she headed to the stove and grabbed her plate than walked over to the table and sat down next to Jake.

  “Last night was wonderful honey.” She said looking at Destiny briefly before she leaned over and kissed Jake lightly on the cheek.

  Jake looked at Destiny to gage her reaction to the comment. She only looked at him briefly. Than turned back to her plate and began to eat again. Jake turned towards Vickie and smiled at her in response to her enquiry. When Vickie turned away from him and started to talk to Lisa. Jake glanced at Destiny once more and when he realized she wasn’t going to look up at him. He looked down at his food and forced himself to eat what was on his plate.

  Destiny sat in silence trying to force her self not to cry. She couldn’t understand how Jake could go from wanting to make love to her, to making love to Vickie. Obviously she was right all along. Jake just wanted to get back at Vickie and when she wouldn’t put out he went to the one thing that would. She finished her meal than stood up to go throw it away when she heard someone talking to her.

  “Destiny,” Vickie chimed. She waited until Destiny turned to look at her. “I’m sorry about yesterday I was just in a bad mood and was taking it out on everybody, I guess. In fact… I’m sorry to everyone.”

  She turned and looked at everyone at the table. The shock in their eyes was enough to almost put her over the edge with laughter. Her mother always said she was a great actress; she turned back towards Destiny and stared at her waiting for a reply.

  “Thanks Vickie, I know that took a lot for you to say.” Destiny smiled than turned and left the table.

  Dumping her plate in there make shift garbage can, Destiny walked down the gravel road towards the bathrooms, she was half way there when she heard heavy foot falls behind her. She glanced back and saw Jake running to catch up with her. Oh great, what the hell does he want? Destiny kept walking, not even slowing down. Maybe he would go away.

  “I need to talk to you.” His husky voice came from the side of her as he slowed down matching her stride.

  “What do you need to talk to me about?” Destiny paused briefly and turned to look at him. “Jake!” She added in a tone that she hoped would discourage him.

   But it didn’t.

  “I can see your upset.”

  Destiny stopped out side the door to the restroom and looked at him. “I’m not upset. You can screw your fiancée anytime you want to. That is why you’re marrying her, isn’t it?”

  “Look, if it makes you feel any better, all I could think about when I was with Vickie last night was you. It may not have been your body I was with but I couldn’t get you out of my mind.”

  “And that’s supposed to make me feel better? Gee babe, sorry I screwed someone else because you wouldn’t put out, but at least I thought of you.”

  “Damn it Destiny,” Jake grabbed her on top of the shoulders and backed her into the L shaped doorway. “I didn’t sleep with her because you wouldn’t put out.”

  “Why did you sleep with her then, Jake? Couldn’t get me out of your head? Or maybe you were just so horny after our kiss you decided ‘what the hell I have a female in my tent that is willing to have sex.’”

  “I walked in that tent fully attending to go to sleep when Vickie asked me to have sex with her. What am I supposed to do? Tell her ‘sorry dear but I have this goddess stuck in my mind ever since this afternoon and we just shared a mind blowing kiss and that’s why I’m as hard as a rock, it has nothing to do with you.’”

  “You were still aroused when you went to your tent?” Destiny asked in a low voice.

  “Yes, in fact I’ve been walking around partially stiff since I met you.” He brought up his hands and placed them on the wall on either side of her head effectively trapping her.

  “Really?”

  “Yes, really, is it that hard to believe?” Jake hooked his finger under her chin and brought her head up so he could see her eyes. He could see her stormy gray eyes turn darker as she swallowed hard.

  “Yes.” She whispered.

  “Why?” he spoke softly.

  “Because Vickie’s beautiful,” She paused swallowing as the electricity ran through her body. “And I’m… just me.”

  “Honey, you’re just as beautiful as Vickie. More in fact because you don’t have to wear all that make up or sexy clothes to pull it off.” He paused moving closer to her pressing his body against her so she could fell how hard he was. “You can even get me hot and bothered wearing a baggy sweatshirt and sweatpants.”

   Jake saw her lips part as she let out a gasping breath when he pushed his hips against her abdomen. He lowered his head and kissed her softly. He was afraid to let it go to deep, afraid he wouldn’t be able to stop. However this kind of kissing was becoming just as dangerous. He lifted his head and kissed her on the nose.

  “I better be getting back before they start wondering where I am.” He twirled her hair with his finger then reluctantly stepped back from her. “You’re so beautiful, Destiny, you’d put any angel to shame.” He whispered as he allowed his eyes to sweep over her body.

  “Jake,” Destiny reached out a hand as he went to turn away. He stopped and looked at her again. “I think you’re beautiful too.”

  He smiled at her than turned and walked away back up the hill. Destiny leaned back against the wall. ‘I think you’re beautiful too.’ What the hell was that? God, you’re an idiot. You don’t call a guy beautiful. She chastised herself than turned and walked into the bathroom.

 

    By the time Destiny had returned from the bathrooms. It had taken her longer than normal because she was trying to get a grip on all her new found feelings. Everyone was sitting by the fire chatting away. Destiny picked a spot by Brian and sat down than glanced up at Jake who smiled than winked at her. Destiny felt the color rise in her cheeks and leaned forward putting her elbow on her knee, resting her head in her hand and looked to the side where Lisa was chatting away about something. Brain leaned close and whispered in her ear she moved her head slightly to look at him.

  “What?” She whispered back.

  “Why are you blushing?”

  “I’m not blushing.” She whispered angrily.

  “Little sister, I know when you blush and trust me your blushing.” He whispered back.

  “I am not!” Destiny forgot to whisper and realized Lisa had stopped talking and every one was looking at her. She sat up and looked over at Jake briefly seeing him still smiling at her than moved her head so she could look at Lisa. “Oh, sorry.”

  “You aren’t what?” Lisa asked.

  “Bored!” She blurted out. “Brian was saying I looked bored.” She glanced at Brian than looked back at Lisa. “I was just telling him I wasn’t.”

  “Stop teasing her, Brian,” Lisa scolded. “especially when you’re supposed to be listening to me.”

  “I was doing both, sweetheart.” He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek.

  “Hey!” Jake addressed the group. “While I was out walking last night I ran into this trail that took you up towards the mountains. I was wondering if you guys wanted to go exploring? You know, see what’s up there.”

  “Sure.” Lisa spoke up. Brian nodded his head in agreement.

  “That sounds fun, darling.” Vickie agreed.

  “Well how about you?” Jake looked at Destiny.

  “I don’t….”

  Lisa interrupted, “Of course she will.” She looked at her, daring her to contradict her.

  “I guess… I’m coming then!” Destiny didn’t want to go anywhere right now. She just wanted to sit at the fire and try to figure out what she was going to do about Jake. These new found emotions were driving her crazy.

  “Good!” Jake smiled at her.

  Good! Destiny thought. I’m going with two couples and I’m about to become the ultimate third wheel. Not to mention the newfound feeling of hatred towards Vickie every time she saw her around Jake. This was becoming ridiculous. ‘Get a grip on your self, Dess. God, this trip is becoming depressing.’ She told herself. She walked over to her tent and went inside to get a pair of shorts and a shirt on. She had noticed the guys putting out the fire as she emerged from her tent. She put on the best smile she could manage and joined her companions at the pit.

  “Okay, we’re all here. Let’s head out.” Jake turned and began the trek up the small trail he had been on just hours before.

  The group headed up the windy path through the trees and brush. Jake led the group followed by Vickie who constantly needed Jake’s help. Destiny thought it was just her way of shoving Jake in her face. Than again she never did seem the wilderness type. Destiny remembered as she followed Vickie, but not to close, followed by Lisa, than Brian, who wanted to be behind incase one of the girls got into trouble. Is what he had said? Destiny thought it was so he could look at Lisa’s butt. They finely came upon the fork in the road that Jake said he had happened upon last night. Jake stopped to give everyone a chance to catch up.

  “This path leads to the lake. This one leads up to the mountain. I think.” Jake pointed out both paths than turned towards his group. “So which way do you want to go?”

  “Do you think it would be okay for Brian and I to take the opposite trail you guys take so we can spend some ‘alone time’ together.”

  “Can I come with you?” Destiny asked, almost pleading. The last thing she wanted was to be left alone with Jake and Vickie.

  “Dessie we would love for you to come, but we were kind of counting on some ‘private’ time.” Lisa winked at her friend hoping she would understand what kind of private time.

  “That’s okay!” She smiled.

  Brian and Lisa said goodbye to every body than walked hand and hand down the path. The rest of the group watched them leave. When they had slipped from sight Destiny turned towards Vickie and Jake.

  “Well, we know what they’re up to.” She said with a smile.

  “Must be nice.”  Vickie sighed.

  “Why don’t I head back and get lunch started. That way, you two can be alone for a while.”

  Jake looked at Vickie angrily, “You don’t have to go.” He turned towards Destiny and smiled.

  “It’s okay; I’m kind of tired anyway. I didn’t get much sleep last night.” She looked at Jake his eyebrow arched inquisitively.

  “Then we’ll go back with you.” Jake took Vickie’s hand than grabbed Destiny’s hand too. Jake began to walk forward when he was jerked back by the two girls. Both girls refused to move.  Jake released their hands than turned to look at them. “What’s wrong?”

  “Thanks, but no thanks.” Destiny smiled up at him. She didn’t want Vickie’s suspicions raised higher than they already were. “I think you and Vickie need some time alone.”

  “Vickie, tell her you don’t mind returning to camp.” Jake said lifting his hand to point at Destiny.

  Vickie just stood there. Not uttering one word. She had crossed her arms and stared at him. Her facial expression was one of anger and disbelief. Jake looked back at the woman with the same anger.

  “Well, a man knows when he’s beat.” Jake threw his hands in the air and started to walk back up the trail with Vickie running to catch up.

  Destiny turned and walked down the trail. She was pleased with her self for avoiding another crisis. Besides, it would do Jake good to spend time with his fiancée so he could remember what a pain in the ass she was. She wasn’t watching were she was going her white tennis shoes slid out from under her and she fell to the ground. A branch broke her fall but killed her butt.

  “Perfect!” She yelled out load as pain shot up her right thigh. “Why me?”

 ‘Because you were thinking bad thoughts.’ She answered her self.

  She sat there fighting back tears that threatened to consume her. Destiny thought how stupid she was to let Lisa bully her into coming on this stupid hike in the first place. If she had just stayed at camp she wouldn’t be in this predicament.

  Destiny gently leaned forward and to the side, supporting her upper body with her hands so she could stand up, when the soil gave away from under her feet. She went down on her belly, hard, her arms flung out in front of her. Destiny franticly grabbed at weeds, roots and grass trying to keep from sliding down the cliff. Her foot finely caught a tree root sticking out of the soil, keeping her from slipping further down the side of the hill.

  Destiny tried to get a foothold and climb up the loose soil but it was no use, her foot kept slipping back to the root. Destiny felt the grass starting to give under her weight. She grabbed for another hand full of the foliage hoping it would hold until some one could find her.

  She laid her head against the cool earth and began to cry as her ankle throbbed with pain. There was no way out for her now. Jake and Vickie would be too far up the mountain to here her cries for help and Lisa and Brain were probably at the lake by now. Her tears flowed hard as the hopelessness of her situation overwhelmed her.

 

 

 

  Jake walked up the mountain with Vickie following. All he wanted to do was get to the damn top and get back to camp. The idea of Destiny being down there by her self was driving him crazy. What if someone stumbled on to their camp and he wasn’t a very nice guy. Destiny being a young and beautiful women, she would be irresistible for a guy like that. The more he thought about it the more his stomach turned and he felt quizzy at the thought of her being down there by her self, possibly being attacked.

  “Damn it, Jake. What is wrong with you?” Vickie yelled.

  Jake stopped, his back still facing her. “Trust me you don’t want to know.” Even though his voice was soft there was an angry undertone. Jake could not possibly tell Vickie that he was worried about Destiny and could not stand to imagine her down at the base of the mountain by her self. That he was trying to hurry to the top so he could get back to her.  “Turn around and talk to me, now!” She demanded.

  Jake spun around on his heels and faced her, eyes blazing with anger. “You just don’t know when to quit, do you?”

  Vickie stepped back and stared at him with utter amazement. Never before had anyone looked at her that way; so full of anger and resentment. His eyes, his stance everything about him at that moment was frightening and erotic. Vickie wanted him more know than ever.

  “God, I want you so bad right now, I can taste it.” She breathed heavily.

  This time it was Jake’s turn to step back, he was caught of guard by her response and just stood there watching her begin to unbutton her blouse and walk towards him swinging her hips sexually, like a cat ready to pounce, her eyes blazing with desire. Vickie reached out for him, wrapping her arms around his neck. She was preparing to pull his head down so she could reach his lips. At that moment Jake realized he hated 

this woman with every cell of his body and her selfish acts had disgusted him beyond anything he had felt before. He grabbed her arms and threw them off his shoulders.

  “You’re the most selfish thing I have ever met.” He said between clutched teeth. “That girl has no one here and if that means you might have to sacrifice a few things, than so be it.”

  “Fine, if you want to go back than we can go back.” Vickie turned and began to head down the trail with Jake at tow.

  She was so angry she could spit nails. How dare he refuse her need for him? No man ever refused Vickie Santinee. Ever! Fine, if he wants to play protector to that little brat so be it, she had better things to do, like going to that party she was invited to yesterday while she was down at the bathrooms trying to waist time while everyone else was doing the manual labor thing. Yeah, she’d go to that party and show him how desirable she was than maybe he wouldn’t be so quick to call it quits.

   Jake walked behind Vickie; he could not believe anybody could be that selfish. He had news for her though, once they got married she was going to learn some manners and grow up, that was for sure. If he was going to have to be with this woman for the rest of his life, he was at least going to make her be descent to other people. Jake froze as he heard faint sobs coming from in front of them. All at once panic overwhelmed him, he knew it was Destiny.

  Jake took off down the trail with Vickie running behind him. He could hear her protests for him to stop in the background of his brain as he strained to hear Destiny. Jake stopped and held out an arm to stop Vickie as well, he held his finger to his lips motioning for her to be quiet. Jake’s heart sank as the realization that the sound was coming from over the side of the trail. He looked down at the freshly turned soil as his breath caught in his throat.

  Jake lay on his belly and looked over the cliff. Destiny was clinging to anything her hand could grab. Jake was nervous about calling out her name he didn’t want to startle her and cause her to let go. He took a deep breath and spoke to her softly.

  “Dessie, honey, its okay sweetheart I’m going to come and get you, just hang on.”

  Jake reached down and held his hand out to her. “Baby, reach up and take my hand.” He saw her reach but she was to far down he tried to scoot closer to her. If only he could get to her wrist he only needed one of her hands, he could pull her up after that. “Come on baby, just a few more inches.”

 Destiny reached as far as she could, their fingers were touching just barely. “Jake I’m slipping.” She cried. Then suddenly Jake saw her eyes widen with fear as the root she was standing on broke and she fell further. “Jake!”

  “Destiny…” Jake screamed. His heart leaped from his chest as she slid another 4 feet. “No, baby, oh god.”

  She grabbed at the soil in front of her until her hand caught a root, she clamped on for dear life. “I’m okay, Jake…” she hugged the cliff and found another root for the other hand to grasp. She closed her eyes, “I’m okay.” She said softly to her self.

  “Baby, don’t move.” Jake got to his feet and looked over at Vickie, she looked utterly terrified. He walked over to her and put his hands on either side of her face and gently raised her head to look at him.

  “Jake I…..”

  “I know, its okay I need you to do something for me.” He brushed her hair back away from her face.

  She nodded.

  “Go to the truck and get the rope in the back of the bed.” He gave her a peck on the lips. “Hurry, Vic.”

  “Okay” she gave him a small smile and took off running down the hill.

  Jake went back over to the edge of the cliff and got back on his belly so he could lean over and see Destiny. “Vickie went to get a rope baby, just hang on. You’re going to be okay.”

  “Jake I’m scared.” She didn’t look up at him but he could hear the fear in her voice.

  “I know baby, I know.” Jake must have waited for a half hour or better before he heard feet running up the trail. Jake got up off his belly and turned towards the sound.

  “Where is she?” Jake heard Brian ask he crested the small hill.

  “She fell down the side of this stupid mountain.” He pointed over the cliff.

Brian came to an abrupt halt and fell to his belly peeking over the ledge. He gasped as he saw his little sister clinging to the edge of the cliff. “Dessi, it’s me, Bri.” He yelled down to her. “Jake and I are going to get you, okay.”

 “Kay” her small voice came up the side. Brian heard Lisa and Vickie talking to Jake. He stood up and walked the few steps to the others.

 “….I’m going to repel down and get her.” Jake was saying as he was tying the end of the rope to a tree. He turned noticing Brian standing beside him. “I’m going to need you to help lower me down.”

  Brian nodded and grabbed the rope while Jake rigged it around his leg and began to go over the side. He slowly made his way down the side of the cliff. He reached her with in seconds. “Okay, Brian, hold up.” He yelled towards the top of the cliff. He felt the rope stop.

  “Destiny” he reached out and touched her back. “I want you to let go with your right hand and grab my hand.”

  “Jake I can’t. I’ll fall.”

  “I wont let you fall baby, please trust me.” He held out his hand to her. She slowly let go of the root and held out her hand. Jake grabbed it and guided it around his neck. “Ok sweetheart let go with your other hand and wrap it around my neck.”

  “Jake?”

  “Its fine baby I’m not going to let you fall.”

  Destiny reached around and flung her arm around his neck, Jake wrapped his free hand around her waist. He could feel her legs wrap around his waist, as her upper torso pitched forward erratically with uncontrollable sobs. “Kay Bri, I got her.” He felt the rope jerk and him and Destiny was being pulled up the side of the cliff. When they reached the top Lisa and Vickie were holding there hands out towards them.

  “Dessi grab my hand” Lisa said.

  “Come on Dessi, we got you.” Vickie coached.

  Destiny reached over and grabbed Lisa’s hand then grabbed Vickie’s with her other hand. They hoisted her up on to the path dragging her on her belly on the rough dirt. Jake was sure it hurt. He reached up placing his hands on the lip and pulled himself up at the same time Brian pulled the rope. Jake crawled over to were Destiny was sitting looking at her hands and sobbing hysterically. Brian was now sitting behind her letting her lean against him. Jake sat on his knees in front of her and gently took her hands in his. Her palms were covered with dirt that had turned to mud from the blood of the scratches and gouges in them. He lifted up her shirt; her belly was covered with dirt and small scratches. Her knees weren’t any better.

   Jake stood up then bent down and picked up Destiny in his arms she buried her face in his neck below his ear. “Jake, I hurt really badly.”

  “I know baby, I’m going to take care of you.” He didn’t know if the others were following and he really didn’t care he was going to take her back down the mountain and inspect her more closely in the sunlight.

  “I can’t stop shaking.”

  “It’s the adrenaline; you’re coming down off the rush.” He squeezed her tighter to him. It took him 20 minuets to get down the mountain with her; Lisa ran to her tent and Destiny’s tent and grabbed a couple washcloths and sleeping bags.

  “I’ll go get some ice from the freezer down by the rest rooms.” Vickie grabbed a pot sitting on the camp stove and took off down the hill.

  “Jake, I’m so sorry about ruining your walk with Vickie but I’m glad you came back I didn’t know how much longer I was going to be able to hold on.” Tears were still fresh on her cheeks as she spoke through ragged breath.

  “What happened?” Jake put an arm around her and held her tight to him. “I thought I had lost you.”

  “I fell down and when I went to go get back up, the trail gave away and I slide down the slope.” She took a deep breath.

 Brain grabbed the washcloth from Lisa and followed Vickie’s path to the rest rooms. Lisa put the sleeping bags around Destiny. “I’m going to get the first aid kit, okay Dess, I’ll be right back.” She walked over to Brain’s car and started rummaging through the back seat.

  “You scared the crap out of me.” He leaned forward touching his forehead to hers, rubbing her arms up and down with his hands trying to warm her up. “I thought I had lost you.”

  “My arms hurt so badly, and I think I twisted my ankle.” Jake lifted his head to look at her, he couldn’t help it he placed his hands on either side of her head and leaned forward and kissed her. It wasn’t a kiss of passion it was a kiss of gratefulness, gratefulness that she was a live. He felt her hand touch his check, then as quickly as it had touched his skin she had pulled it away and pulled back from him grabbing her hand and looking at it.

  “Ouch, damn that really hurts.”

  “Got it!” He heard Lisa’s voice just before the door had closed. She ran up to them and kneeled down in front of Destiny she gently nudged Jake out of the way and began to work on her hand. Just then Brian and Vickie appeared out of no where. Vickie handed Brian the ice then took Jakes arm and backed him up out of the way leaving Lisa and Brain to attend to Destiny.

 “It looks like she is in good hands honey.” Lisa said “we were invited to a barbeque and I would really like to go, do you think it’s something you would want to do.”

  Jake looked up at her his face confused. But he new he needed to go with her if for no other reason than to express his gratitude to her for helping with Destiny. He still didn’t know why she did, but he was willing to give her the benefit of doubt. “Sure just let me get cleaned up okay.” She smiled at him as he went into the tent to change his clothes.

  “Okay, let’s go.” Jake left the tent a few minuets later and walked up to his fiancée put his arm in hers allowing him self to be led down the hill towards the other side of the bathrooms.

 

 

  Lisa bent down and gently picked up one of her hands and gently wiped it off with the washcloth. “Owe, that hurts.” Destiny pulled her hand away.

  Lisa gently grabbed it again and started washing it. “I know it hurts Dess, but I have to get it clean.” Lisa then wiped some antibiotic ointment on it and wrapped her hand with gauze, and then she moved to the other hand. “What about your belly?”

  Destiny pulled up her shirt and Lisa began to clean her belly, she wiped some ointment on it then pulled her shirt down. Then took the ends of the sleeping bag and pulled it closed to trap in the heat. “Is there anything else that hurts?”

  “My ankle.” Destiny pointed to her right ankle.

  Brian pulled her shoe off carefully, and then removed her sock. Her foot was swollen and there was a faint bruise. Brain arranged the bottom of the sleeping bag and elevated her foot carefully placing the ice on her foot. “If the swelling doesn’t go down by tomorrow we’ll take you to the hospital unless you want to go know?”

  “No, it already feels better.”

  “Okay Dessi,” Brian kissed on top of her head then stood up. “Are you hungry?”

  “A little.” She smiled.

  “Well I’ll make you a sandwich then.” Brian walked over to the table and began taking stuff out to make her a sandwich. Lisa pulled a couple of pills from the kit and handed her a soda.

  “Take these it will help with the pain,” destiny reached out and took the pills from her and popped them in her mouth then reached for the soda and took a couple of big gulps. Brian walked over and handed her the sandwich, which she ate gingerly.

  Brian and Lisa went back to the table and made themselves some dinner. Destiny began to get sleepy she was having the worst time keeping her eyes open. She kept blanking out into unconsciousness. She forced her eyes open once again and saw Brain standing over her.

  “Come Dess, I’ll help ya to your tent.” Brian he bent down and scooped her up in his arms and carried her to her tent. He laid her down on her air mattress and zipped her into her sleeping bag.

  The last thing she remembered was Brian saying goodnight and zipping up her tent.

 

 

 

 

  Jake walked back up to the campsite by himself; he had turned the corner at the restrooms looking for Vickie and found her there lip locked with some short haired blond asshole. He had called her a whore and headed back up to the campsite. It was deserted not a soul in sight at first he thought maybe something was wrong with Destiny and brian had to take her to the hospital or something but noticed his car was still parked by his truck. He wondered how she was doing the cuts on her hands, the scratches on her belly, he decided in that moment to go see her.

  Jake walked up to her tent and spoke softly. “Destiny, are you awake.”

  There was no answer from inside. Jake stood out side her tent contemplating on whether or not to go in when he heard a small whimper inside. All his instincts directed him to go inside. He unzipped the tent and stepped over the threshold.

  “Destiny, are you okay?”

  Jake saw the bandages on her hands first they were thick and made her hands look like they were white balls of gauze. Then he moved to her face, she looked so peaceful laying there on her side. She moaned again in her sleep and turned over on her back. Jake was getting ready to leave when all of a sudden she sat up in her sleeping bag.

  “nooooo!” she cried.

  Jake fell to his knees and wrapped her in his arms. “It’s okay Dessi, I’m here.”

He squeezed her gently to his chest. “You’re safe.”

  “Jake?” her voice was soft and gentle, making her sound very fragile at the moment.

  “Yes baby, it’s me.” He brushed her hair out of her face, and felt her arms wrap around his waist and pull herself closer to him.

  “I was so scared, I had this dream that I was hanging off the cliff again except this time you weren’t able to grab me and I was falling to the bottom.”

  “Shhhhhhh, it’s okay know baby I’m here.” He kissed the top of her head then rested his cheek on the spot. He felt her give one big hug then take a deep breath as she leaned back and looked at him.

  “Where’s Vickie?”

  “She decided it would be best if she stayed down at the party.”

  Destiny reached to the side of her and Jake heard something crash to the tent floor. “Damn, stupid bandages.”

“What are you trying to get?”

 “My damn flashlight.” Jake couldn’t see her features very well in the dark but he could hear the frustration in her voice.

  Jake felt around the area were heard the big thud and sure enough found a large lantern size flashlight hanging out by his foot. He felt for the switch and flipped it on. The whole tent was bathed in a soft glow. Jake looked over at Destiny her golden mane out of control and wild, framing her beautiful heart shaped face, her eyes where a light gray almost blue, and the most beautiful smile he had ever seen crowning the angelic view. There were slight scratches on her check, nothing too drastic he was sure they would heal in a week or so. His gaze fell down her body to her hands. Lisa had really wrapped them good. No wonder she couldn’t get her flashlight, he doubted she could move her fingers even slightly.

  “She meant well.” Destiny lifted her hands up for a second then laid them back on her lap blowing a puff of air out the side of her mouth trying to move a stray piece of hair that had fallen in her face. Jake smiled and reached up and gently moved it out of her way, back behind her ear, a smile crossing his lips. “Well I’m glad you think it’s funny.”

  “Would you like me to fix it?” He offered with a smirk.

  “Please…”she let the rest of the sentence drop as he began to unwrap one of her hands. He was gentle, and moved gingerly around the palms, by the time he was done unraveling her there was a pile of gauze in between them on sleeping bag.

  “Did she use the entire roll?”

  “I think so.” She looked up and met his eyes with hers. God he wanted her so badly. Jake shook his head and cleared his thoughts, not only was she hurt but, he had other obligations that would not allow them to be together.

  “I’ll be right back I’m going to go get my first aid kit out of my truck.” He smiled at her tapping her nose gently with an index finger.

  “Okly dokly.” She winked at him. That was it; what ever thoughts he was having about being good just flew out the front door of the tent. He heard them say good bye as they left his brain, he leaned forward kissed her lightly on the lips then stood and bounded for the flap, hoping beyond hope he could catch up with his good intentions and put them back in his brain.

  Destiny sat there quietly as she waited for him to return looking at her palms, they weren’t that bad a few scratches a cut on her right hand. All in all she guessed they would be healed in a few days. She heard foot falls outside her tent as Jake ducked into her doorway holding a black box she moved her legs over so he would have a place to sit, she winced as a sharp pain ran from her ankle to her thigh.

  “What’s wrong?” Jake was at her side in an instant.

  “Nothing my ankle is just sore.” She smiled up at him.

  “I’ll fix that too.” He winked at her, and then sat next to her hip. He opened the black box and took out some Neosporin and gauze wrap and placed them in front of him then gently lifted her hand. He grabbed the tube of ointment and carefully spread it over the wounds then got the gauze wrap and began to cover her hand gently. When he was done with both hands Destiny inspected the job and smiled at him.

  “Well, at least they look like there covered in regular gloves instead of boxer mitts.” she giggled.

  “Show me this ankle so I can fix it baby.” Jake had scooted off the bed and began to unzip the sleeping bag. Destiny pointed down to her right foot wear there was a sandwich baggy full of water lying next to it. Jake picked up the bag and set it over to the side of the tent. Then he gently lifted the ankle supporting the foot with his hand.

  “I don’t think it’s broken but it’s defiantly sprained.” He reached down and took the ace bandage from the first aid kit and gently began to wrap it. Destiny winced a few times while he wrapped the ankle and part of her foot, and she would hear him say ‘sorry’ each time he made a revolution with the bandage. But for the most part it did make it feel a lot better then it had felt. When he was done, he gently placed her foot back under the covers.

  “How does that feel?” he smiled at her.

  “Better, a lot better. Thank you.” She smiled at him as he reached down into the box and pulled out a bottle of Aleve. He handed her a couple of the blue pills and the bag of water. “Take these; they’ll make the pain go away.”

  Destiny did has she was told then scooted down into her sleeping bag and turned on her side. “Jake?”

  “Yeah?”

 “Will you lay with me for a while?” Destiny told herself it was because of the nightmares she was having and his presence made her feel safe, but deep down she knew she just wanted to be next to him, feel his body heat, his pulse, and his arms around her protectively. He didn’t say anything just began to kick his hiking boots off and shimmy out of his jacket then crawled in her sleeping bag reaching down and pulled the zipper up sealing them in the fluffy cloth bag.

“Turn over baby.” He whispered and Destiny complied. Then he threw his arm over her waist and gently pulled her into his body. She could hear his breathes fall even and she soon fell fast asleep in his warm embrace.

  Jake felt Destiny’s breaths grow even in just a few moments and he scooted closer to her. Her hair smelled like a campfire and there was a hint of vanilla on her skin. God this girl was driving him crazy. He forgot all about Vickie and her escapade and to be honest with himself he really couldn’t be angry with her either. After all he wasn’t exactly innocent either, no matter how hard he had tried he couldn’t get Destiny out of his head and he kept kissing her. Vickie kissing that guy was no worse then him kissing Destiny. He kissed the back of her head softly as he pulled her closer to him. The soft sigh from her as she snuggled even closer made his heart skip a beat.

  “I think, I’m falling in love with you little one.” Jake said silently. And to his surprise she answered him in her sleep with a soft whisper.

  “I love you too, Jake.”

  He closed his eyes and buried his face in her hair and drifted quickly to sleep.

 

 

 

Jake woke at the first sign of daylight; he could hear Brian and Lisa giggling in the tent next to him. They were awake but not out of there tent yet, there was still time to sneak out of Destiny’s tent and back into his. He carefully slipped out from her sleeping bag, slipped on his boots, bent down and kissed her softly on the cheek, carefully and as quietly as possible, left her tent. He tip toed over to his tent trying not to step on any branches or anything and peeked inside. Vickie had come home while he was in Destiny’s tent and had passed out on there bed. She wasn’t, in their sleeping bag but she had grabbed the other side of the bag and pulled it over her, tucking it under her body.

  “Shit!” Now, she would know he hadn’t been there all night. He saw his truck then and walked silently to it, opening the door as quietly as possible and sat on the seat tying his shoe. He would pretend he was just getting up and that he had slept in his truck the whole time. All he had to do was let Destiny in on the lie and hope it didn’t piss her off that he didn’t want any one to know where he had been last night.

  “Hay Jake” Brian smiled at him as he exited the tent.

  “Hay” Jake got out of his truck and walked over to meet Brian by the campfire. They worked together in silence and got the campfire going. Then sat down and enjoyed the rewards of there labor.

  “Did you sleep in your truck last night?” Brian stood in front of the fire and held out his hands warming them.

  “Yeah,” Jake was poking the fire with the long stick they were using as there fire stick.

  “You and Vic okay?” Brian walked over to him and sat down next to him.

  “As okay as well get.” Jake turned to Brian. “Destiny was telling me it’s her birthday tomorrow. Do you guys have anything planned?”

  “We were just going to give her the presents we had for her here before we leave.”

  “Well, what if we did something special for her?”

  “What do you have in mind?”

  “There’s a small restaurant a couple of hours away I would like to set up reservations for a party.” Jake started poking around the fire again.

  “Road trip?” Brian asked excitement in his tone.

“Something like that.” Jake smiled at him.

“Cool, I’m going to talk to Lisa about it I’ll be right back.” Brian stood and walked briskly to his tent.

  Jake smiled to himself; he didn’t think he had seen Brian this excited since he had met him. He didn’t want to leave Destiny here with Vickie but he thought she would pretty much stay in there tent all day with a hang over, so he wasn’t that worried. Jake could hear Brian and Lisa talking. It didn’t sound like she was opposing the idea but he heard her say something about ‘Destiny needing to go to the hospital for her ankle.’ Jake was trying not to ease drop but when he heard Destiny’s name he was curious he stood up to walk towards Brian and Lisa’s tent when he heard a faint sound from Destiny’s tent.

  “Damn it” her frustrated voice came from inside. Jake walked over to the door.

  “You okay, baby?”

  “No! I can’t get my pants on.” She sounded on the verge of tears.

  “Would you like me to get Lisa so she can help you?”

  “No, I don’t want to bother her, couldn’t you help me?” Her silky voice floated through the door.

  Jake smiled at himself, “if you would like me to, I would be more then happy to help you.” He began to unzip the door and stepped inside.

  Destiny was sitting on her air mattress in a pair of black lacy underwear, wearing a white t-shirt and a pair of blue jeans half way on, “I was able to pull off my other jeans, but pulling them up,” she held up her bandaged hands “I can’t grab them to pull them up. This is so frustrating.” She smiled up at him.

  Jake about lost his mind when he saw her there sitting in black lacy panties. He walked over and crouched down in front of her. “How about I help you take them off?” he smiled.

  He saw her swallow, “Jake, be serious. Brian and Lisa are right out side.”

  “I’m just teasing honey.” He took her wrist carefully and placed them around his neck then placed his hands on her waist, “come on baby, lets get you standing.” He stood up and brought her with him. Once they were standing he bent slightly to grab her jeans and pull them up over her hips then buttoned and zipped them up. He was smiling as he put his hands back on her waist supporting most of her weight.

  “Why are you smiling? Am I shaped weird or something?” She smiled up at him.

  “No, it’s just I’ve never dressed a woman before, I mean, I’ve undressed lots of women but never dressed one before.” He brushed her hair back behind her ear, “I think I like it.” Then lowered his mouth to hers and kissed her.

  “Hay, Jake where’d you go?” brains voice echoed amongst the trees.

  Jake reached down and scooped up Destiny’s legs and started caring her towards the door. “I’m in here helping Dess,” he walked through the door way and over to the camp chair that Vickie had bought and placed Destiny in it. Lisa was over at the table starting the Colman stove and getting stuff ready for breakfast.

  “Does your ankle still hurt” Brian asked as he bent down and looked at her bandaged foot. “Where did you get the bandage from?”

  Before Jake could answer destiny looked up at him and winked. “Jake heard me cursing and came in and wrapped it for me. It’s a little sore but I don’t think its broken or anything.”

  “Did you want to go to the hospital?” brain asked.

  “No I’m fine. It will be better by tomorrow.”

  “If you’re sure?”

  “Its fine Bri, you worry too much.”

  “Okay little sis if you say so.” He turned towards Jake “well then, I’m ready when you are.”

  “Ready for what?” Destiny asked.

  “We are going into town to call my dad and make sure he’s ready for us tomorrow.” Jake said before Brian could speak. He didn’t know if Brian would let the cat out of the bag, he couldn’t remember if he had told him it was supposed to be a surprise or not. He looked at Brian and winked.

  “Oh….” She smiled.

  “Let me get some stuff and we’ll be ready to go.” Jake ruffled Destiny’s hair and walked to his tent. He opened the tent and stepped inside.

   Jake changed his jeans and shirt and as he was tying his shoes Vickie popped her head up.

  “Where were you last night?” Jake saw that her lipstick was smudged and her mascara had run and made her look like she had raccoon eyes and her hair was disheveled and messed up. He realized she was not an attractive woman at all.

  “I slept in the truck.” He tied his shoes grabbed his keys and stood up.

  “Where are you going?” she said angrily.

  “I’m leaving with Brian. I’ll be back later.”

  “What ever Jake,” she lay back down on the sleeping bag. “Is your precious ‘Destiny’ going?”

  “No, just Brian and I, be on your best behavior while I’m gone, Vickie.”

  “What ever.” she covered her head and went back to bed.

  Jake walked out of the tent and over to Brian who was questioning Destiny about how she was doing. She looked frustrated. Jake put his hand on brains shoulder. “You ready big guy.” Brian stood up from a crouching position and looked at Jake.

 “Yeah, let me kiss Lisa goodbye.” He walked over to Lisa.

 Jake crouched down in front of Destiny and kissed her on the cheek. “We’ll be back as soon as we can.”

  “Don’t worry about me, I’ll be fine.” She smiled. “You boys go have fun, Brian rarely gets boy time.”

  Jake stood up and kissed the top of her head and walked to his truck calling over his shoulder. “Bye Lisa, take care of my girl for me.” Then hopped in the driver seat and started the engine.

  “I don’t think he was talking about Vickie.” Brian commented.

  “He better not be making moves on Dessi, she’s too innocent to know any better and besides he’s engaged to Vickie.” She said angrily.

  “Don’t assume anything baby, he could just be treating her like a little sister or something.” He kissed her. “It’s none of your business.”

  “Have a good time honey, I’ll miss you.” She ignored his comments, gave him a hug then sent him on his way. Brain walked over to the truck and got inside. The girl’s watched them drive out of the campsite. Destiny got up and hobbled over to the table where Lisa was cooking. “What are you doing on that foot?”

  “I’m fine Lees, really.” Destiny sat on the bench and smiled at her. “So, where are they really going?”

  “I’m sure I have no idea what you’re talking about dear.” Lisa turned back to her eggs. “How many eggs would you like?”

  “Three, I think you’re holding out on me Lisa.”

  “Nope” Lisa plopped three eggs on her plate with some bacon and handed it over to destiny. “So what do you say after breakfast we go on a hike?”

  “Oh you are funny.” Destiny shook her fork at her. “So what are we going to do besides eating?”

  “I brought my portable DVD player.” Lisa wiggled her eye brows at her as she put some eggs on her plate and began to eat. “And some chic flicks.” She said in between some bites.

  “Nice” after they were done eating they went over to Lisa’s tent, crawled under the covers and started to watch ‘Practical Magic.’

 

Jake and Brian drove down the gravel pathway out of the camp site and turned on to the highway heading towards Redding. They had been on the road for a half hour, rocking out to Panteria when the CD had started over again. Jake flipped off the radio and turned towards Brian briefly then spoke. “So what kind of things does Destiny like? I was going to get her something from me and Vickie.”

  “Well she loves purple; it’s her favorite color even though she looks better in blue.” Jake couldn’t picture her looking bad in anything. “She also likes amethysts and diamonds of course,” Brian continued. “White gold, books, she loves books, any books, her whole room is wall to wall book shelves with books filling each shelf. There stacked everywhere because she has ran out of room on them.”

  “So what she really needs for her birthday is more book shelves.” Jake smiled.

  “Yeah! I guess so.” Both men laughed together as they drove further down the highway.

  “Jake can I ask you a question?”

  “I don’t know it sounds like it might be a pretty serious question.” Jake said with half a smile. He could pretty much guess what Brian was going to say. Probably bitch him out for spending too much time with Destiny and not enough time with Vickie or something stupid like that.

  “You know Destiny hasn’t had a lot of experience with men?” It sounded like a question but it was more of a statement.

  “Yes and?”

  “I just wanted to let you know that there’s a good chance she could be misinterpreting your protectiveness as something else, and I’d really hate for her to get her heart broken.” Brain spoke again rapidly before Jake could answer. “I’m not trying to be a dick I’m just worried about my little sister.”

  “She’s lucky to have such a loyal big brother, Bri.” Jake smiled at him briefly before turning back to the road. Well one thing was for sure she wasn’t misinterpreting him incorrectly at all. He wanted her more then any other woman he had ever met. And he was pretty sure she knew it.

  “Unless, you are interested in her ‘in that way’ and just waiting for a good reason to break up with Vickie. Then I say go for it.” Brain paused momentarily. “I mean as long as you’re not going to hurt her that is.”

  “I’ll keep that in mind.” Jake smiled.

Jake and Brian sat quietly the rest of the trip listening to the plethora of CD’s in Jake arsenal. It took them two and a half hours to get to Redding. They pulled into Heidi’s parking lot and went inside.

  Jake asked for the manager and waited for him to arrive. “I need to make a reservation for tomorrow. It’s a surprise birthday party.”

  “What time will you be arriving sir?”

  “We don’t know we’ll be coming off the mountain.” I need a time sir if we are going to have a table open sir.”

  “Here’s two hundred dollars can you guarantee me a table from noon to three P.M.” Jake didn’t miss the expression on brains face. He knew he was going to have to explain that one later.

  “Yes sir.”

  “I’m also including an extra thirty dollars for a cake.” Jake turned to Brian. “What kind of cake does Destiny like?”

  “Chocolate with whipped cream filling.” Brian looked like he was in shock. Obviously he had never been around people with money before.

  “Chocolate with whipped cream filling and I want it to say ‘happy birthday Destiny’ and I want 18 candles.”

  “Yes sir, anything else sir”

  “Nope I think that will be it.” Jake turned towards Brian again. “Can you think of anything else Bri?”

  “Nope!” He smiled.

  Jake shook the man’s hand and he and Brian went back outside and to the truck. Brian looked at Jake and opened his mouth to say something then closed it again without uttering a word. Jake smiled at him. “You don’t think Destiny deserves the best?”

  “No, I mean of course she does, but two hundred and thirty dollars Jake?”

  “She only turns eighteen once.”

  “If you want to blow your money on my little sister go right a head, but you don’t have too. She could care less if you had two cents to your name, she doesn’t care about money.”

  “Which is more reason, then not, to spoil her on her birthday.”

  “Okay Jake!” Brian laughed. “Where to next?”

  “The jewelry store, then the mall.” Jake smiled at him.

  “okay doky.” Brian laughed.

  They drove another twenty minuets before they reached the mall. Jake and Brian walked through the doors a few moments later and over to the jewelry store that was located just to the right. The mall wasn’t very big and there looked like there were only a few stores in the place, one being a music and electronic store the other a book store. Jake walked up to the counter and immediately a man in a black suite came over to them.

  “May I help you gentlemen?”

  “Yes I would like an amethyst ring in white gold.” Jake crossed his arms in front of his chest. “Money is no object.”

  “Yes sir, I’ll be back in one moment.”

  “Are you crazy? He’s going to be bringing you every expensive rings in the place.” Brian was turning red with the rise of his blood pressure.

  “Take a deep breath before you pass out Bri.” Jake smiled. Just then the man returned and brought two trays covered with amethyst rings. Jake picked out a beautiful white gold ring with tiny vines intertwining on either side until the top of the two leaves rested an oval cut amethyst, deep purple and flawless.

  “I want this one.” Jake picked it up and set it in the man’s hand.

  “Yes sir, that’s going to be seven hundred and twenty nine dollars.”

  “I’ll give you another hundred if you can size it in an hour, I need a size 6”

  “Yes sir,” the man grabbed a piece of paper from behind the counter and began to write, “And your name sir?”

  “Jake Ryan.”

  “Mister Ryan my apologies sir, I didn’t recognize you.”

  “Jake Junior.” Jake clarified.

  “I’ll have it ready for you at 4:00 sir.” The man took the money Jake offered and rang up the ring then said goodbye as he hurried into the back room to get to work.

  “Wow, that’s a lot of money Jake.”

  “Brian, Destiny deserves the best. And someday I want her to look back on this day and realize she was loved and remember the great day she had with all of us on her birthday.”

  “You’re in love with her!” Brian came to the realization.

  “Let’s go to the book store and get something for her from Vickie.” As they walked away Brian realized that Jake wasn’t going to honor his accusation with a yes or a no answer.

  They walked into the book store and Brian led the way to the metaphysical section.

“She’s pagan, this is her favorite section.”

  “Really, maybe I am under a spell after all.” Jake mused.

  “Na, the three fold law won’t permit love magic.” Brian smiled.

  “Are you pagan as well?”

  “No, but we have a lot of spiritual discussions. Some of her beliefs are very interesting.”

  “What’s this, three fold law?”

  “It’s similar to the Christians ‘do to your neighbors how you would want them to do to you.’” Brain shrugged his shoulders, “you would be surprised how many similarities there are to a lot of religions and there belief structures. It’s kind of interesting.”

  Jake looked around and didn’t see anything that caught his eye, he tried to ask Brian for assistance but he just shook his head saying that Destiny had too many books to remember what she had and what she didn’t have. But, he explained that she always wanted a book of shadows.

  “What’s a book of shadows?” Jake asked.

  “Have you ever seen that show ‘Charmed’?”

  “Vickie watched it on occasion but I never really paid attention.” Jake crossed his arms.

  “I know what you mean Lisa and Destiny were glued to the TV every time that show came on. Anyway you know that big leather bound book that all there spells were in?”

“I think I remember seeing it once.”

“Well that was a book of shadows.”

“So it’s a book with spells in it?”

“It’s a blank journal that a person can put there thoughts and spells into themselves. It’s very expensive. Right now she has about 4 different note books filled with her stuff.”

“Well let’s see if we can find one that is acceptable then.” Jake took off towards the journal section Brian following behind him.

 He went through the first set of journals but they were either too small or not thick enough. Then as he turned the corner he saw it and below it was a sign that read

 

Book of shadows

As seen

In the hit TV series

Charmed

 

$350.00

 

 

Jake reached out and touched the cover, and then he traced the symbol on the cover with his finger. “Real leather and the symbol is made of real silver, I can see why it’s so expensive.”

  “You’re not seriously thinking about buying that are you?” Brian pointed at the book.

  “Why not?”

  “Jake come on its three hundred and fifty dollars.”

  “Money is no object, Brian.”

  “Wow man, you’ve got it bad.”

  Jake ignored him and picked up the book. “Wow, its heavy.” He commented as he walked to the counter.

 “So is this what Vickie’s going to give her or is she going to give her the ring instead?”

Jake laid the book on the counter and looked around the rack next to him. He picked up a romance novel and tossed it on the counter. “No, this one is going to be from me, I’ll give it to her later when no one is around.” Jake paid for the items and had the book wrapped at the store for an extra ten dollars.

  They carried there purchases to the jewelry store were he picked up Destiny’s ring then walked back to the truck. They hopped inside and Jake turned towards Brian. “Hungry?”

  “Do you even have any money left?”

  Jake gave him a half cocked smile. “Please!”

  “Sure”

  “So, tacos or hamburgers?”

  “What ever is cheapest, I don’t know about you, but all this money being thrown around is raising my blood pressure.” Brian chuckled.

  “Here.” Jake handed him a black long rectangle shaped box made of velvet. Brian opened it and looked at the white gold necklace inside, the vine intertwining each other on either side until they came to a point joining together with an amethyst pendent snuggled in-between two leaves. The necklace matched Destiny’s perfectly.

  Brian held his hand to his heart. “For me Jake, I love you too.” He said in an overly sweet voice.

  “Its for Lisa, jackass.” Jake smiled.

  “When did you get this?”

  “The guy at the jewelry store threw it in for free. I’m buying your silence; please don’t say anything to Lisa about the money.” Jake looked at him briefly then turned into the parking lot of a fast food restaurant. “She hates my ass already. I don’t need her freaking out on how much I spent on your sister.”

  “She doesn’t hate you Jake.” Brain closed the box and stuck it in his inside pocket. “She’s just worried about Destiny. She may be eighteen Jake, but her parents practically kept her under lock and key. This is the first outing she has been able to go on and only because we all begged for several months before hand.”

  “You’re not kidding, are you?” Jake turned to him.

  “No!”

  “She’s never had a boyfriend?”

  “Well, she’s snuck out with us lots of times and she’s gone to party’s with us, for some reason her parents trusted us, and there was this one guy that hung out with us a lot but I don’t think it was very serious. He took off after few months.”

  “May I take your order?” the voice over the loud speaker asked.

  Jake gave her their order and they ate in piece than listened to more music on the three hour trip back. Brian was anxious to see Lisa. And Jake wanted to get back to Destiny and check on her. They made it by eight o’clock. They heard the girls in the tent laughing; Brian walked over to the tent and walked inside followed by Jake. They were both surprised to see Vickie sitting among the books with a smile on her face.

  “Hi honey.” Lisa stood up and gave Brian a big hug then plastered a kiss on his lips.

  “Did you have fun?” he asked.

  “Yes and you?”

  “Loads, but I missed you.”

  “Me too.”

  “Destiny was telling us a funny story.” Vickie looked up at Jake and smiled. She’s a good story teller.

  Jake saw the color rise in Destiny’s cheeks. “She’s being kind; I’m really not that good.” God, it was so hard when Vickie was being nice. She stood and walked over to him giving him a hug and then kissed him. Jake looked over Vickie’s shoulder at Destiny and saw the smile on her face that didn’t quite reach her eyes. He closed his eyes not being able to bare the look in her eyes any longer. He gently pushed Vickie back and gave her the best smile he could conjure up.

  “Baby, can we go somewhere tonight please. I’ll be good.” She begged.

  “Sure.” Jake smiled and glanced over at Destiny. Was that a tear?  Shit! She looked away and over to Lisa and brain.

   “So, tell us about your trip, Bri?” He didn’t miss the swipe of her hand on her cheek as she smiled up at her brother.

   They sat down on the sleeping bag and Brian wove a tale of his own about the adventure they had 4x4ing on the trails on the other side of Shasta lake. Jake slipped outside the door as Brian said something funny and the tent was full of their laughter like a beautiful chorus. Jake was dragged down the gentle slope by Vickie who was smiling up at him and telling him how much fun they were going to have. He smiled back at her wishing like hell he could go back to the campsite, scoop Destiny in his arms, and kiss her.

 

  It was late and Destiny had waited outside for Vickie and Jake to return after Brian and Lisa had gone to bed. She could hear brains snores through the thin tent walls and found herself wondering how Lisa could sleep with all that noise. She was just about to give up and go to bed when she saw Jake crest the hill. He was by himself. She stood and waited for him to come to her. At first it seemed like he didn’t even see her. Then he stopped and stared.

  “Jake?”

    Jake looked up at the vision before him, the campfire put a fuzzy haze around her, either that or it was the beer. He saw her smile then, and this time the smile had reached her eyes as well. He walked over to her and with out thinking, scooped her up in his arms and done what he had wanted to do all damn day.

  He kissed her.

  Jake captured her lips with his. Her arms wrapped around his neck as she pressed her body against his. Their kissing became deep and hard as their hunger for each other grew with in them both. She dropped the sleeping bag and wrapped her legs around his waist. He dropped to one knee and then the other as he laid her on her back next to the fire and on the fallen sleeping bag. He moved his hand up her shirt and gently caressed her breast touching the velvet bud that had swelled for him.

  Destiny gasped as her body went rigged. Fear overwhelmed her. No man ever touched her like this, she was way over her head and she knew it, but she found her self relax as he deepened the kiss and stroked her arm with his other hand. She didn’t care if this was wrong or if this man that could make her burn with wanting for him was only in it to get back at Vickie. Destiny felt her world disappear as shock waves of desire ran through her body. Her heartbeat pounded hard in her chest trying to escape the prison it was incased in.

  He straddled her legs as his kisses moved down her neck and towards her chest were the point of the v of her shirt stopped. Than moved up her neck kissing it as he found his way to her ear and nibbled on the lobe. Jakes hand reached up and placed a hand on her cheek and lifted his head and looked at her. “Make love with me?”

  Destiny’s eyes filled with tears as she realized what she was doing. She was overwhelmed by her desire for him, yet her conscious was screaming at her to stop. Destiny new what she had to do no matter if she wanted to or not? She gently placed her hands on Jakes chest and pushed him off her. She could see the pain in his eyes as he got up on his knees.

  “I’m sorry, I can’t.” Her voice was filled with overwhelming sadness and regret.

  “We don’t have to stop. I won’t let it go beyond kissing if you don’t want it to.” He looked at her desire in his eyes, and something else she could not name.

  “But I wanted to, don’t you see I’m the one that won’t be able to stop at kissing.” She looked up at him. “I can’t do this, Jake. I can’t give my self to you just so you can turn around and be with Vickie again.” Destiny pulled her legs out from between his thighs then stood up. She bent down and grabbed her sleeping bag than started off to her tent. Her ankle still throbbed with pain, but she didn’t care. Destiny had to get away; the pain in her heart over powered the pain in her ankle. She could not stay were her heart was so vulnerable.

  Jake stepped out in front of her. “I have to be with her. I have no choice.” He didn’t understand what had just happened, he thought they both wanted this, there was no way he could have mistaken the joy in her eyes at seeing him, and then all of a sudden here she was walking away from him, again. He was more pissed than he had ever been with Vickie. How could she start this and than act like it was his fault when it ended up going as far as it did. For God sakes what did she expect him to do, he had obligations before he had met her and he can’t just throw them to the wind now.

  “Your right Jake, you have no choice.” Destiny said between clenched teeth.

  His eyes filled with anger. “How can you stand there and pretend I started this when it was your damn witch’s eyes and the way you always look at me, like you want to eat me up. What were you thinking that it wouldn’t drive me crazy?”

  “I don’t know what I was thinking, Jake, maybe that I love you.” She raised her voice.

   Jake stopped yelling at her and just looked at her, did she say what he thought she said, or was he just hearing things. She was so beautiful standing there half aroused, standing lopsided not resting her right foot on the ground. Then it hit him her ankle, it must still hurt that’s why she’s not putting weight on it. He took a step towards her, when she held out her hand.

  “Stop Jake, don’t come any closer, you know as well as I do this isn’t working.” She said threw falling tears. “I know you love Vickie and I’m sorry that I keep flirting with you and making you do things you don’t want too.”

  “You think I’m in love with Vickie?” Jake choked out. “God girl, I’ve never wanted anyone the way I want you, not even Vickie and it’s confusing the hell out of me. Hell Destiny, maybe I’m just going crazy.” He turned from her and walked down the gravel driveway.

  Tears fell from her eyes as she watched him walk away from her, she turned and hobbled over to the log and sat down, picking up his shirt, and she held it to her face and wept. She didn’t want him to be mad at her. She went in to her tent and grabbed a piece of paper and wrote him a note.  

 

 

My sweet Jake,

   I’m sorry for everything; I’m sorry that I flirted with you and made you want me. I’m sorry that I can’t be next to you without throwing myself on your lap daring you to eat what I offer. After all, you are just a man. Please forgive me. I promise I won’t do anything to make you want me any more, we’ll just be friends okay. Please Jake, I’m truly sorry.

 

                                                                            Love,

                                                                                  Destiny

 

 

 

 

 Destiny tore the paper from the pad folded it and went to jakes tent placing the note on his sleeping bag. She walked out of the tent and hobbled over to her tent stopping briefly to pick up her sleeping bag. She lay down on the cool fabric resting her head on her pillow and began to cry. This trip was not turning out like it was supposed to be and it was all her stupid fault for falling in love with someone she had no right to fall in love with.

 

 

  Jake calmed down as the cool breeze assaulted his lungs. He knew that Destiny was not blaming him, if anything she was blaming her self, which was stupid it was his damn hormones that flew off the Richter scale every time he saw her. He walked back towards the campsite and noticed that Destiny was nowhere around. He sighed deeply and went inside his tent.

  Jake saw a small folded piece of paper lying on top of the sleeping bag he shared with the women that he now knew he was never in love with. He sat down on the flannel cloth and opened the letter and read it to himself. When he was done he folded it over again, clutching it in his hand. He lied down on his sleeping bag resting his head on his pillow and tried to get a hold on his emotions. He wasn’t exactly sure what he felt for Destiny but it was stronger than he had ever felt for any one before, including Vickie. How did his life become so out of control?

 

 

 

  The next morning, Lisa and Brian were up at the crack of dawn, like always, Lisa cooking, Brian building a small fire in the fire pit. Destiny hobbled out of her tent wrapped up in her sleeping bag. Her ankle was still sore but nothing like the day before, she knew she had just sprained it. Destiny smiled as she heard Lisa singing to her self. She walked over to her friend, the scent of bacon filling the air around her.

  “God girl, don’t you sleep?” She said in-between a yawn.

  “I guess I’m just a morning person.” Lisa smiled and flipped an egg.

  “You need any help?”

  “Nope!”

  “You want me to build a fire?”

  “Sorry Brian’s beat ya to it.”

  “Than what can I do?”

  Lisa pointed to the log. “You can go sit down.”

  “Okay, Lees. Okay!” Destiny hobbled over to the log and sat down.

  A few minutes later Brian had a fire started, the red orange flames lapped at the wood making it pop with pleasure. Brian stood up, a gratifying look across his face. He winked at Destiny as he headed towards Lisa. He sneaked up from behind her and stole a piece of bacon than ran for his life as she spun around to hit him with her spatula. Brian sat next to Destiny and smiled.

  “She falls for it every time.” He stuck the whole piece of bacon in his mouth and chewed with a grin still on his face.

  Destiny chuckled lightly than stood up. She walked over to her tent and went inside leaving her sleeping bag on the floor in a heap and grabbing her make up bag and a white pair of shorts and a lavender tank top, she went back out in the cool morning air.

  “I think I’m going to go use the bathroom.” She said.

  “Nice sweat suit.” Brian pointed at her purple outfit that was much too big for her.

  “Hey! At least it’s comfortable.” She said over her shoulder as she limped down the hill.

  Soon after Destiny left Jake came stumbling out of his tent. He was hopping on one leg trying to put his shoe on, when his toe caught the lip of the tent and he had to put his foot down half in and half out of the shoe.

  “Have a nice trip?” Brian walked up to him chuckling.

  “Yeah! It was great. Want to buy a ticket?” Jake smiled at his friend. He finished putting on his shoe than stood up.

  They both walked over to the log and sat down next to one another. Brian smiled at his friend than slapped his shoulder. Jake looked up at him with confusion on his face. Brian leaned over and whispered in his friend’s ear.

  “I don’t know about you, but man, this is the most sex I’ve had consecutively at one time.”

  “Oh! Glad to hear it.” Jake looked at him stunned.

  “So how was last night?”

  “Well besides the fact that the woman who is supposed to be in love with me was kissing some other guy, Fine.”

  “Why do you stand for that? Damn Jake, you could have Destiny in a heart beat all you have to do is tell Vickie to take a hike.”

  “Don’t remind me.” Jake looked up and saw Destiny coming up the hill, she was drenched her hair damp with water. The shorts and shirt she was wearing accented her curves as she made her way to them. He stood, than walked towards her, Brian following closely behind.

  “What happened? Don’t tell me you went swimming.”

  “No! I took a shower,” she paused and looked at Jake. “a cold shower.” She teased, than turned away when she saw the deep circles under his eyes, marking his inability to sleep.

  Jake stared at her the beginning of a smile crossing his face.

  “Hey sis, you fall in?” Brian laughed.

  “Ha ha, forgive me if I don’t laugh.” She smiled, than glanced back at Jake, ‘Sorry’ she mouthed as Brain put his arm around her and led her away.

  Jake watched as Brian wrapped his arm around her shoulders and walked with her to her tent. Jake saw the look of regret in her eyes as she looked at him. Did she regret what they did last night? Or did she regret stopping? It didn’t matter he could not afford taking kisses from her any more. He was hurting her and driving himself crazy. He turned and walked back to Lisa and sat down at the picnic table opposite of her.

  “You want to go wake up Vickie and come eat some breakfast.” She turned towards him with a smile waiting for him to answer.

  “I would love to but she never came back.” He picked up a piece of bacon and stuck it in his mouth.

  “What?” she looked at him in bewilderment. “Why aren’t you out there looking for her?”

  “She’s fine.”

  “Who’s fine?” Brian asked as he sat down at the table with Destiny joining them.

  “Vickie’s missing. She never came back last night.” Lisa turned to him, anger in her voice.

  “I’m sure she’s fine.” Brian looked up at her.

  “We’ll let me enlighten you boys.” She smiled cynically at both of them. “No Vickie, no breakfast.”

  “So what you’re saying is that if Jake and I want to eat we have to go find her?” Brian said sarcastically.

  “Bingo!” She turned back towards her creations sizzling in there pans.

  Jake and Brian looked at each other briefly and than stood up and headed down the hill. Destiny and Lisa watched them as they disappeared from sight. Destiny looked up at her friend and shook her head slightly.

  “What?” Her friend looked down at her.

  “Jake came home last night very upset, I don’t think it was a good idea to send them for her. I’m pretty sure she is okay and will come back when she wants to.”

  “I don’t care. I can’t believe he would just leave her down there.”

  “Did you ever think that he might not have wanted to?”

  Lisa didn’t respond to her question; however she had a good idea Lisa was thinking about what she had said. Destiny helped dish up the separate plates and place them on the table when she saw the boys returning, Brian a few steps behind him. Jake walked up to the girls and sat down at the table across from Destiny. Brian sat down next to him.

  “Where’s Vic?” Lisa turned towards the boys.

  “Not now!” Brian spoke up.

  They sat down and began to eat there breakfast in silence. Destiny wanted to ask Jake what had happened but she new better than to bring it up. Obviously from the look on his and Brian’s faces something had gone terribly wrong. When they were done they all pitched in and helped Lisa clean up.

   Soon afterward Vickie came strolling up the gravel road looking half drunk, swerving and stumbling slightly. She was holding her head with one hand moaning in pain. Brian put an arm around both the girls’ shoulders and ushered them down the hill until they got out of sight of the camp. Lisa turned and looked up at him as Destiny followed her lead.

  “What’s going on?” She asked confused.

  “Jake and I stumbled across Vickie in bed with another guy.” Brian whispered even though he didn’t have to.

  “Poor Jake.” Lisa looked over at Destiny pity filled her eyes.

  Destiny couldn’t believe what she had heard. My god, Vickie had the most wonderful, patient guy in the world and she still had to run around like a damn cat in heat. Well if she didn’t want him than Destiny would be more than happy to take him off her hands. Now if she could only get Jake to realize she would be better than Vickie. Suddenly she heard Brian speaking again as his voice invaded her thoughts.

  “Jake just stood there, His hands falling to his sides. He looked totally defeated Lees, just absolutely crushed. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. All of a sudden I looked up towards where he was standing and he was gone. I practically had to run just to catch up with him.”

  “He didn’t yell at her or anything?” Lisa asked.

  “Nope, just silence.”

  “What did Vickie do?” asked Destiny.

  “Nothing really she just looked up at us and asked us what the hell we thought we were doing barging in on her. That she wasn’t married yet and Jake had no right to be there. The guy she was with, I swear he turned four shades of white.” Brian ended with a chuckle.

 

 

 

  Vickie stumbled towards Jake; she reached the picnic table and sat down resting her elbows on the worn wood and placing her head in her hands. She was planning to be up and out of there before daybreak, before Jake woke up. Now she was going to have to deal with Jakes belly aching at seeing her with that guy and her head hurt.

  Jake walked up to her and stared at her, arms crossed across his chest, his anger reaching the boiling point. “What the hell was going on Vickie?”

  “Please Jake, you’re not stupid,” She looked up at him, shielding her eyes from the sun. “Leave me alone, my head feels like it’s going to explode.”

  “I want to know what you were thinking. Doesn’t this relationship mean anything to you? What about our baby?”

  “I don’t know Jake. Does it to you? I mean I haven’t been able to tell with all that flirting you’ve been doing with that little girl.” She stood and walked over to their tent Jake following behind her.

  Vickie stepped inside while Jake was yelling something about walking away from him when she noticed a small piece of paper lying beside his pillow. She reached down and grabbed it than turned and sat on her sleeping bag. She opened it and read the contents.

  Jake walked in after her steaming to the top. Her walking away from him sent him over the edge. He stopped dead in his tracks when he saw the letter Vickie held in between two fingers. Jake walked closer to her and tried to grab for the letter when she yanked it from him. A smile crossed her face.

  “You bad boy! Looks like I’m not the only one with my hand in the cookie jar.” She flung the letter at Jake. It fell by his feet.

  Jake reached down and grabbed the letter, stuffing it in his pocket.

  “Obviously you forgot about our baby as well.” Vickie pointed a finger at him.

  “You started this crap last night when you decided to act like a whore.” He pointed his finger at her.

  “I kissed one guy to get your attention away from the brat and back on me and the first thing you do is run back here and have sex with her.” Vickie yelled.

  “Let’s get one thing straight, right now. Destiny and I never made love; we may have kissed but it never went past that. And number two if you don’t start acting a little more like my fiancée instead of a steady sex partner, that’s it Vickie, there will be no more chances.”

  “Fine Jake, just go ahead and remember what you said when you force my hand and make me abort our unborn child. Just don’t forget your roll in that decision.”

  “I have never wanted to hit a woman more than I want to hit you at this moment.” His voice was strained as he tried to control his anger.

  “Go ahead nothing’s stopping you.” She egged him on.

    Jake stood and walked towards the door of the tent than turned and looked at her. “We have to be at my dads in three hours I want this stuff packed up and in the truck by the time I return. Brian and I still have to take down the tents.” He stepped out side.

  “I hate you Jake Ryan.” Vickie yelled as a shoe went flying by him.

 

 

 

 

     Brian lead the girls back just in time to see a shoe fly past Jake as he walked away from his tent. They froze waiting for some retaliation from Jake. He just kept on walking with out even glancing back. The group met him half way into the campsite. He paused and looked at the group and gave them a reassuring smile.

  “We are supposed to meet my dad in a few hours so we better start packing up.” He looked at Brian. “I need to go for a little walk I’ll be back in time to help with the tents.”

  “You okay bro?” Brian asked concern seeping through his voice.

  “Yeah, I just need to go for a walk.”

  Brian and Lisa walked away to their tent and went inside.

  Jake reached out and touched Destiny’s arm as she started to walk past him.” Please wait?”

  “I’m sorry about what happened between us last night. I didn’t mean to start something without finishing. I just don’t know where I fit in your life Jake. And than when Vickie pulls this crap… I just don’t understand why you’re with her.” She spoke fast and quick not wanting him to break in and interrupt her.

  “I know. Please don’t worry about last night I wanted to just as much as you did.” Jake lifted his hand to her face and rubbed her cheek with his thumb. “I don’t know what I want any more. All I know is that I need you in my life and I want us to stay friends if nothing else. I know it’s not fair to you Destiny but I just can’t walk away with nothing. I need you. Is that something you think you can do?”

  Destiny looked up at him confusion showing in her eyes.

  “If you can’t be that to me right now, I’ll understand.”

  “I would be lying if I said it wasn’t a problem, especially do to recent events. But if that’s the only way I can be with you than I guess it will have to do.” She spoke honestly.

  Jake knew the sacrifice she was making for him; he was making the same one. Both their feelings would have to be held back so that he could save his unborn child from an early death. The more he tried to justify what he was asking her to do the angrier he became with himself. But he couldn’t help it, he needed her with him right now, maybe at the end of the two months his heart would grow cold of the need for her and he could let her go. But right know she was the only thing keeping him sane, her and his unborn child. “Do you think you could ride with me when we leave, I can’t be around Vickie right now?”

  “Sure!”

 “Thanks Dess.” He leaned forward and kissed her cheek where his hand had been just moments before. Than walked away down the hill to be with his thoughts by himself.

 

 

 

  By the time Jake had returned. The campsite was cleaned up and every thing including the tents where put away. The group was standing together in silence, Destiny and Brian staying clear of Vickie. He couldn’t help but to see murder in Destiny’s eyes as she looked at his fiancée. He couldn’t blame her, he’s had that same evil desire these past 3 days him self. Jake suddenly realized why he would never be able to tell her about the baby, it hit him when he saw the pure hatred in his angel’s eyes, and he would never survive her looking at him like that.

  “Brian!” Jake approached the group.

  “Yeah?” He looked up at his friend.

  “There’s a small restaurant off the highway, I think it’s called Heidi’s or something. If we get lost I’ll meet you there. We can eat and than head to the airport.”

   “Sure but you wont loose me.” He smiled.

  “I have one more favor.”

   “Yeah?”

   “Can Vickie ride with you; I think its best if we didn’t spend time together right know.”

   “Not a problem.” Lisa spoke up.

   “Good, Dess can ride with me.” He didn’t miss the flash of anger in Vickie’s eyes when he announced that little tid bit. And it made him feel good.

   Destiny flashed Vickie a look of triumph as she walked over to the passenger side of Jakes 4-Runner and got in. Lisa held the door open for Vickie and lifted the passenger side seat so she could crawl in to Brian’s car. Lisa let the seat fall back to its regular position than sat down on it and shut the door. The boys walked to their sides of the cars and got in and started the engines, the cars roared with life than headed out of the campground, Jake in the lead.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The gift

 

Chapter

3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Brian turned the radio on as soon as he left the campsite in hopes to delay the inevitable confrontation between Lisa and Vickie. He knew Lisa had been on the warpath ever since she heard what had happened last night. When she didn’t say anything to Vickie while they were packing up the stuff he thought, more like hoped that maybe nothing would be said. However looking at his lovers beautiful face, he read loathing in its expression. His fear was soon confirmed.

   Lisa reached over and clicked the radio off and glanced over at Brian annoyed that he had turned the damn thing on in the first place. She knew he was trying to force her silence but she just had to say something to Vickie. She could not believe her friend would carry on the way she had been. Lisa couldn’t understand what was going through her friends mind. ‘Jake seemed like a nice enough guy.’

  Lisa couldn’t help but notice the angry look on Brian’s face as she turned in her seat to confront her friend. She was sorry to have to drag Brian into this but the opportunity to question her friend with out her friend being able to escape was too good to pass up. Lisa couldn’t let this opportunity go. Vickie sat in the center of the back seat, arms crossed in front of her. She was glaring back at Lisa ready for the on slaught.

  “What the hell were you thinking?” Lisa began her attack.

  “You have no right!”

  “I have every right; I don’t need a friend that’s going to go around and sleep with anything that has a penis.” Lisa turned so she was almost sitting in between the two front seats.

  “How come Destiny’s not getting the same lecture? She’s been trying to steal Jake from me ever since the rest stop.” She said in cool, calm voice.

  “That’s just your paranoia.”

  “That’s where you’re wrong.” Vickie’s smile held victory. “I saw a note that she had written Jake last night about sorry for loving him or something stupid like that, I can’t remember word for word I was too upset when I read it.”

  “Where is the note now?” Lisa was anxious to read this for herself. As far as Lisa knew Destiny was still a virgin and had sworn to stay that way until the right guy had come along. Could Destiny have fallen in love with Jake? How desperately Lisa hoped her gut wrenching speculation was untrue, if it wasn’t than she was going to have to pick up the pieces when Jake discarded Destiny, when her usefulness as a tool to piss off Vickie wore off.

  “Jake took it from me. I don’t know what he did with it.”

  “Well maybe if you would stop running around, Jake wouldn’t have to be making moves on Destiny, than you wouldn’t be in this little predicament.”

  “Stay out of it Lisa, you don’t know everything.”

  Lisa turned towards the front of the car. She was so angry with that woman she could tear her head off. ‘How dare she bring Destiny into this? Besides if Destiny really did kiss Jake than it was Jakes fault for seducing her. Destiny had no idea about such things for god sake her parents practically kept her in a plastic bubble.’ Lisa didn’t want to think any more she just wanted to melt into oblivion; she reached over and flipped the radio on. She was just going to have to talk to Destiny later in private.

 

 

 

 

 

  Destiny sat in the seat and watched the scenery rush by her as they drove down the Highway. She was wondering what Jake had done about Vickie, if whether they were still together or if he just needed time to get his life back together after breaking up with her. This whole situation was confusing the hell out of her. She was confused and in love with a man she wasn’t even sure she should be in love with. In love with him? No infatuation, that’s what it was, pure lust. “Did you break up with her?” She asked as her curiosity got the better of her.

  “No.” Jake said softly, his voice carried a touch of remorse. “I’m not sure what I’m going to do yet.”

  Destiny had spun around to look at him, “What do you mean, not sure what to do yet? My god Jake, she cheated on you, doesn’t that count as a viable reason to break up with somebody?” Destiny couldn’t believe what she was hearing; there was no way he could still want to be with that woman.

  “There’s more at stake than you know Dess, I need to be absolutely sure of what I’m going to do and when I need to do it.”

  “Well if you would tell me, maybe I could help?”

  “Thanks Dess, but this is my burden.” He reached over and patted her leg.

  Destiny sat against the seat, crossing her legs and arms. ‘What could possibly be keeping Jake from getting rid of Vickie? That evil woman probably has something on him, something so terrible that he is actually afraid to let her go.’ She thought to herself. ‘What possibly could she have hanging over his head?’

  “Look honey, I’m sorry that I can’t go into it with you; but this is something only I can work out for myself.” He smiled at her briefly before turning back to the road.

  There was no way Jake could tell Destiny about the baby. That the only reason he even agreed to marry Vickie was because he didn’t want his unborn child to die. How Vickie had threatened to abort the baby if he didn’t marry her in a couple of months. How he had only been with her because of his damn male ego in the first place. All he had cared about at the time was the most single beautiful woman in the school by his side.

  Than it all went bad just when he was getting ready to break it off, she dropped the bombshell. ‘I’m pregnant’ she had said. ‘And unless you plan on making me an honest woman Jake, I’m going to have to get an abortion. I will not raise this child by myself.” Jake could remember every word of the conversation that would destroy his future.

  Jake had accepted his fate until the day he saw the golden haired goddess that sat next to him. Now his life was all screwed up and he was confused and didn’t know what to do. God help him, that it wouldn’t drive him crazy.

  “Fine, whatever.” She said angrily, before turning to the window to look out side.

  “Damn it Destiny; I don’t need this.” He pleaded.

  “I’m sorry Jake; I just can’t understand why you’re allowing her to treat you this way. What does she have on you? What’s got you so damn afraid to let her go?” Destiny turned in her seat and looked at him her arms crossed over her chest.

  Jake should have known that she would be smart enough to figure out that there was something tying him to Vickie. He guessed that she couldn’t possibly bring herself to believe he was in love with the woman. But Jake had told Vickie he wouldn’t tell anyone until after they were married, something about being an unwed mother or something. He gave his word and so he would keep it.

  “I fell in love with her. I just can’t let that go because she’s made one stupid mistake. I have to give her the chance to make it right again.”

  “It was a pretty big mistake.” Destiny rolled her eyes.

  “Yeah, I agree but she started to do that stuff because of what I was doing with you.” He used Vickie’s excuse, and regretted it as soon as he saw her reaction.

  “So what you’re saying is that I was a mistake?” Her arms fell to her side and her eyes misted over with un-fallen tears.

 “No!” he raised his voice. “That’s not what I meant Dess, you could never be a mistake. It was me; I’m the one that should have been stronger. I’m the one that should have stopped it from going as far as it did. Don’t ever think this was your fault or that you were a mistake.”

  Jake glanced over at her than back to the road than back to her. He did this a few times trying to gage the look on Destiny’s face. The hurt in her eyes reached out and slapped him hard. At that moment he realized this young woman had allowed herself to be come more involved with him than he himself could ever imagine possible. God, he hated himself right now.

  Destiny couldn’t believe what she had heard coming out of his mouth. She just sat there stunned, staring at him; she had no idea what to say. She had been a mistake, he didn’t mean all that stuff that he said or did with her, he just wanted to make Vickie jealous and now it had back fired on him, not only had Vickie slept with some one else but some where along the way he had felt something for Destiny. At least she had thought he did. Maybe he just wanted to be friends to spare her feelings.

  Destiny turned towards the window once more and rested her shoulder against the door as her head laid against the cool glass. She was going to have to be friends with him if she was going to survive two months around him on a secluded ranch. Fine, she could do that. She needed no one to be happy. She closed her eyes and took a few deep breaths trying to keep from crying. ‘Get a grip, girl.’ She told herself. The purr of the engine and the rocking of the truck soothed her insides as a nothingness wrapped it self around her, no more sadness, no more regret, just glorious emptiness.

  Jake looked towards Destiny as her breathing came even and regular, she had finally found peace with her emotions through sleep. He knew she was on the verge of tears when he saw her lean towards the window, and he had to look away before her sadness engulfed him. Jake could only hope that in time her sadness would disappear and she could forget about him. He new there was no way he would ever be able to get over her and would carry the dream of what could have been with him for eternity.

  Jake leaned forward and turned on the radio hoping to drown out his thoughts. “How do I live with out you…” rang through the speakers.

  “Perfect!” Jake cursed to himself. Than flipped the radio off again.

Jake drove down the highway in silence. Destiny had turned towards him a while ago and Jake found him self-wishing she would turn again, he couldn’t concentrate, and He kept glancing from her to the road. She looked so perfect lying there next to him. So at peace, how was he going to survive the next two months seeing her every day?

  He had no idea.

 

 

 

 

Jake and Brian pulled into a little parking lot in front of Heidi’s restaurant two and half hours after they had left the campsite. Jake couldn’t wait; Jake and Brian had planned a surprise for Destiny’s birthday yesterday and had snuck away to the restaurant to make plans.

  They drove to the back of the parking lot and backed their vehicles into two parking spots. Lisa and Jake rolled down there windows so they could talk to one another. Jake couldn’t help but notice Lisa was still angry, except now he felt the anger towards him. At this point he didn’t care, they were here to help Destiny celebrate her 18th birthday and he wasn’t going to let anyone ruin it for her.

  “Are we still going to … you know?” Lisa asked him, trying to keep all sounds of anger from her voice.

  “Of course, I just have to wake her up. She fell asleep on the way down.”

  “Wait until we get inside before you wake her.” Lisa climbed out of the car and walked over to his window. “We’ll make sure they have every thing set up and ready to go.”

  Jake nodded as he saw Brian exit the car than lift up the driver’s seat, to let Vickie out. A flash of anger swept through his body when he saw her. Jake pushed his emotion aside and waited for Lisa and Brian to get the gifts out of the back of the car before heading to the restaurant and disappearing inside.

  Jake turned his body sideways so he could face Destiny. He leaned against his right side and gently touched her face with his left hand. She moaned. A lock of golden hair fell across her face; Jake gently brushed it aside, than leaned forward to whisper in her ear

  “Dessie,” He kissed her cheek softly. “It’s time to wake up.”

  She moved under his hand causing Jake to sit back against the car door. He did not want her to wake up with him so close. She had suffered enough because of him and he was going to help her adjust to the new boundaries of their friendship by not touching her.  Hell who was he kidding he was the one that couldn’t touch her with out loosing all restraint on his hormones.

  “Come on sweetheart. Everybody’s waiting for us.”

  Destiny’s eyes blinked open as she looked at him, her gray blue eyes taking in the masculine out line of his body as she tried to focus. She sat up in the seat, pulling down the visor to glance at her self in the mirror. She recoiled at the sight that greeted her.

  Jake saw the look of displeasure cross her face as she looked at her self; she started fixing her hair running her fingers through it like a comb. Than using her index finger to wipe the bottom of her eyes. Jake thought ‘If only she knew how much she didn’t need to do that.’ Whether her hair was messed up or neatly combed she looked like a some goddess stepping out of the heavens.

  “Okay! I’m ready.” She turned and smiled at him. Than reached for the door.

  “No, that’s my job.” Jake turned and opened his door.

  Jake stepped out of his truck, closed the door and went over to her side than opened the door to let her out. Destiny smiled and hopped out, stepping back to let him close it. Than followed him to the front of the truck. “The rest must have done you good?”

  “Why do you say that?” She looked at him curiously.

  “You’re smiling.”

  “Well, I had a good dream.”

  “I know.” Jake guessed as much from the occasional purring he had heard from her while she was sleeping.

  “How do you know?”

  “You talk in your sleep.” He smiled, teasingly.

  “What did I say?” she stopped him, grabbing his elbow.

  “Well, it’s more like what you did rather than what you said.” A devilish smile crossed his face.

  “Well…?”

  “I’m not going to tell you.” He resumed his walk.

  “Jake!” She caught up with him stepping in his way.

  Jake stood there looking at her innocently.

  “I’ll tickle you.” She threatened. Holding up her hands towards him and wiggling her fingers.

  “Promise?”

  “Brat!” She turned and started towards the restaurant, a smile crossing her face.

  “You’re the brat threatening me like that.” He walked after her.

  “You love me and you know it.” She glanced over her shoulder flashing him a smile. Than turned and ran towards the doors disappearing inside.

  “You have no idea.” Jake said to him self quietly. Than followed her inside.

 

 

  They walked around the corner and saw everybody including some restaurant employees standing around the table with a cake and four presents garnishing the top of it. Everybody broke out singing happy birthday with the exception of Vickie who was standing behind them arms crossed in front of her. Everyone was ignoring her.

  Destiny Smiled at the group as Jake walked up behind her and joined in the song. She could not believe they had set this up for her. When they were done with the song Brian held out his arm pointing to the cake and told her to make a wish. Destiny walked up to the brown frosted dessert with Happy Birthday Destiny written on top and eighteen candles glowing brightly. ‘I wish Jake was mine.’ She said silently to her self, than blew all of them out.

  Everyone clapped and then sat down. The manager took the cake away placing it on a table next to them than handed them all menus and said he would be back in a few moments to take their order.

  “You have to open your presents first.” Brian insisted taking the menu from Destiny and placing it on the table.

  Destiny looked up at him a smile crossing her face.

  “This is from Lisa and me.” He handed her a medium size bag with tissue paper sticking out the top.

  “When did you have time to get me this?”

  “We brought it with us, along with these from your parents.” Lisa pointed to the two presents left on the table. “This one is from Vickie.” She pointed at a small rectangular package.

  “This is why you weren’t allowed in the back of the car.” Brian smiled.

  Destiny removed the tissue paper and looked inside. “You guys shouldn’t have.” She said as she pulled out a sleeveless gray blue summer dress from the bag.

  “We thought you could wear it if we go into town or something while we’re at the ranch.” Lisa said.

  Brian passed her the two biggest presents on the table. “Mom and Dad said for me to tell you that they hoped you were having fun and enjoy your eighteenth birthday they wished they could be here.”

  Destiny opened up the larger of the two packages first and pulled out a black felt cowboy hat with a note from her dad. She read it out loud after scanning it to make sure there was nothing to personal. “Hope you’re having fun. Thought you could use this, every cowgirl should have one.”

  Destiny put the hat on her head and modeled it for everyone who showed approving smiles except for Vickie. Destiny picked up the second box, which was slightly smaller, and tore the paper off it. There was a pair of black leather cowboy boots and another note. “Hope you could use these too. Love mom.”

  Lisa handed her the present from Vickie, she un-wrapped it to and there was a romance novel showing a guy holding a girl and running through the jungle “Angel, of the Amazon” was its title. She turned to Vickie. “Thank you Vickie I love romances.” Destiny could see she was just as shocked as she was. Obviously she didn’t really buy the gift. She would have to thank Lisa later for the thought.

  “Thank you everybody this was nice, unexpected, but nice.” She smiled at her companions, than turned to face Jake when he had touched her shoulder.

  “There’s one more.” He held up a small black velvet box.

  Destiny turned in her chair to face him, than reached out and took the little box in her hand. She lifted the lid and gasped in surprise as an exquisite white gold ring with a deep purple amethyst jewel stared back at her. It was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. Destiny took the little piece of jewelry and stuck it on her right ring finger than reached up and hugged Jake around the neck.

 “Thank you. It’s beautiful.”

 Destiny let go of Jake’s neck when she heard a chair slid across the floor, she looked up to see Vickie get up and leave the table heading towards the bathrooms. Destiny tried to say something when Jake touched her on the shoulder than stood up and followed his fiancée out of the small dinning area towards the bathrooms.

  “Don’t worry sis.” Brian smiled at her. “Order something.”

  He picked up his menu, than grabbing Lisa’s and handing it to her. They sat there in silence going over the items on the glossy surface of there menus. Brian was not going to let Vickie rune Destiny’s birthday. She may not be his real sister but ever since he met her two years ago he had taken her under his wing. To him she was his little sister and he would take care of her any way he could.

 

 

 

 

 

  Jake saw Vickie standing by the bathroom doors arms folded across her chest. He walked up to her than leaned against the opposite wall and waited for her to acknowledge him. He didn’t have to wait long.

  “When did you find time to buy her that ring?” She asked angrily.

  “When I was out yesterday.” He showed no emotion.

  “So how much did it cost?”

  “it’s no concern of yours.”

  “It should have been bought for me, I’m your fiancée not her.”

  “What the hell does that matter?” He asked. “It was her birthday Vickie.” Jake crossed his arms.

  “So? The little brat got enough for her birthday.”

  “Look when you decide to grow up and stop acting like a child, than we can talk,” Jake stood up from the wall. “until than I will be at the table having lunch.”

  Jake turned to walk away when he felt Vickie’s touch on his arm. He turned bracing himself for a temper tantrum that was sure to come. She looked at him a tear falling from her eye, her chin quivering.

  “I’m sorry Jake. Sorry about now, sorry about the last three days, I’m just sorry about everything.”

  Jake nodded that he was listening.

  “I just got so jealous when I saw you around her.”

  “I like to be around her because she is honest and fun to be around, and doesn’t expect anything out of me.” Jake thought he had seen a flash of anger in her eyes, than it had gone away just as fast.

  “I know. Please forgive me Jake?”

  Jake was weary, never before had Vickie ever apologized for her actions. Perhaps she really has learned something. Jake said to him self. He was willing to give her the benefit of doubt. He put an arm around her and hugged her tight to him kissing her on the head she returned his affection with her own hug.

  “I know Destiny will understand when you ask for the ring back, after all…..”

  Jake held her away from him. “I’m not asking for the ring back.” He knew she had an angle, he couldn’t believe just how cruel she really could be.

  “Jake you can’t give a ring to a girl other than your girlfriend, fiancée, wife, mother, you know…” She looked at him with confusion.

  “Who says?”

  “It’s an unspoken rule; ask Brian he’ll tell ya.” She smiled.

  “Well it’s not my rule. Destiny will keep her ring.” He turned and began to walk away from her.

  “No she won’t.” She yelled after him.

  Jake spun on his heels and walked back to her. “Now listen to me, if you do or say anything to Destiny to make her give you that ring, I swear to you baby or no baby it will be the last time you ever see me.”

  Jake turned and walked away from her again. He knew it was an open-ended threat he just prayed she didn’t know that. What a fool he was to think she had actually changed, to think that maybe she really did have a heart beating in that chest. Jake swore he was either on a mission from god or it was some kind of punishment for something he had done in a past life.

  Vickie stood there looking at the man that she hated, it had become personal now. She was going to make him marry her, than she was going to destroy him bit by bit. How dare he treat her like some common person, she was Victoria Santinee. This guy who started out to just to be a trophy has turned into a nightmare. First trying to break up with her at the end of the year, trying to discard her like some kind of garbage, like all the others, than ordering her around like some damn servant. Who in the hell did he think he was? And that little tramp she’ll pay big time; she would guarantee it.

  Vickie walked back to others and sat next to Lisa. She flashed her best smile at Destiny and told her how pretty she looked in her cowboy hat and how she couldn’t wait to see her in that beautiful dress. She didn’t miss the look Jake flashed her. But winning Destiny’s confidence was all part of her plan.

 

 

 

 

   The group had finished there lunch and had a piece of cake. Destiny told the people at the restaurant to keep the rest of the cake and share it between them selves. Jake paid the bill than they all left walking to the vehicles together, Brian and Lisa hand in hand. Destiny started to walk towards Brian’s car when Jake called to her. “Aren’t you riding with me?”

  “I thought you would want to ride with Vickie.” She pointed to the tall fiery red head standing by Jake’s truck.

  “No, it’s okay sweetie.” Vickie walked over to Brian’s car where Lisa stood with the door open. “I wanted to talk with Lees anyway.”

  “Are you sure?” Destiny turned to Jake, than Vickie.

  Vickie nodded at her, than crawled in the back of Brian’s car. Lisa climbed in after her, followed by Brian. Jake walked over to the truck and held the door open for Destiny than went around to his side and got in, they headed down the highway towards his dads airport.

 

 

 

  Jake turned towards Destiny and saw her looking at the ring he had given her. She had excused her self right before they left the restaurant and had returned wearing the dress that Brian and Lisa had bought for her as well and the boots and hat her parents had gotten her. She looked like one of those models he had seen in his horse magazines. All that was missing was the horse standing by her side.

  “It’s really beautiful Jake.” She turned to him smiling.

  “I’m glad you like it.” He reached over and patted her on the leg.

  “What did you say to Vickie to make her be nice to me?”

  “Nothing!” He did not know what Vickie was up to but he was determined to find out. Vickie was not in a good mood when he had left her, and he knew she felt nothing but animosity towards Destiny. He was going to have to watch his fiancée and make sure she wasn’t going to hurt Destiny with that jealous rage that was boiling inside his soon to be wife.

  “Gosh, for a while there I thought I was going to have to give you back the ring.” She brought her hand up and watched it glitter in the sunlight.

  “Now you listen to me,” He glanced at her, and when she had turned to him he looked back towards the road. “That ring is yours, and no one else’s, don’t let anyone take it from you.”

  “I won’t.” She didn’t understand why he was so adamant. She would never give the ring to anyone.

  “Look honey, I don’t know what Vickie is up to, but I gave that ring to you, and I just don’t want her telling you some bullshit story, so she can take it from you. Okay.” Jake reached out and took her hand with his.

  “Okay, Jake.”

  “Good.” He brought her hand to his mouth and kissed it gently. “So, how did you like your birthday party?”

  “It was great. I still can’t figure out how you three managed to keep it from me.” She said, her spirits rising as Jake placed her hand on his thigh.

   He squeezed her hand gently. “So how are you feeling about flying? Brian said you’ve never been on a plane before.”

  “I’m a little nervous. I just hope I don’t get sick or anything.”

  “You’ll be fine; after all I’ll be there with you the whole time.” He glanced over at her flashing his best ‘trust me’ smile.

  “It’s not the flying part that bothers me so much; it’s the crashing part I can’t seem to get over.” She smiled.

  “Do you know that you are less likely to crash in an airplane than you are in a car?”

  “Do you know you have a higher survival rate in a car than you do in an airplane if it crashes?” She countered.

  “All right Dess, you got me there.” He turned and winked at her. “Look under your seat sweetheart, be careful it’s heavy.”

  Destiny glanced at him for a moment then reached down under the seat, it was hard and very heavy and big. It was also wrapped in pink and purple happy birthday wrapping paper. She brought it up to her lap and set it there. “Jake, you already got me a present.”

  “I know, but this one is special.” He flashed a smile at her.

  “More special then a ring?” she countered.

  “Just open it.”

  Destiny ripped the paper and to her shock and surprise an exact replica of the book of shadows from “Charmed” was starring back at her. Her mouth fell open involuntarily as she caressed the soft leather with her finger tips. “Jake, it’s……….” she swallowed hard and looked up at him. “It’s the most precious thing I have ever gotten.” She said as a tear escaped her eye.

  “Then why are you crying.” Jake looked concerned and worried.

  Destiny wiped her tears from her cheeks, “because, I’m happy.”

  “No wonder why us men can’t figure you women out, you cry when you’re sad, you cry when you’re pissed, and you cry when you’re happy.” He said while smiling at her. Jake noticed her take off her seatbelt and then without warning she leaned over and hugged him around the neck. Thank god he was a good driver, he thought to himself.

“It’s the best present ever Jake, no matter what happens, you’ll always be in a special place of my heart.” She whispered in his ear then kissed him softly on the cheek.

  “I’ll always remember you too Destiny, my little witch.” Jake smiled at her.

  She smiled back at him, but it didn’t reach her eyes. She buckled herself back up then held her book to her chest hugging it close to her. She reached up on occasion to wipe away a stray tear as they snuck out the corner of her eye. Jake could see she was trying really hard not to break down. He wanted her to be happy on her birthday not be upset? God women were so damn confusing.

  “How about we listen to some ‘Enigma’, baby?”

  Destiny nodded her approval.

  Jake grabbed the CD from the visor and put it in, than he reached over taking her hand in his, bring it to his lips and kissing the back of it, and set it on his thigh. Destiny repositioned their hands so their fingers could entwine with the others, then she relaxed her hand, allowing it to stay there on his thigh while they drove, silently listening to the erotic tunes from the speakers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  They pulled into a small airport outside of Cheeko, California. It had about ten huge airplane hangers; all but one had small private jets parked inside. Jake pulled into the one that was empty followed by Brian’s car. They parked in the back, destiny hopping out and hobbling over to Lisa with her book, “Lisa, look what Jake got me” Lisa took it from her and laid it on the hood of Brian’s car.

  “Wow Dess, she felt the cover, it was soft.” Lisa looked over at Jake who was reaching in the back of the truck grabbing his and Vickie’s things. She turned back to destiny. “Do you know how much something like this costs, and the ring? I think you should give it back, it’s a lot of money sweetie,” Destiny looked down at the book as tears streamed silently down her face.

  Jake dropped the luggage and walked over to Lisa, “Actually it was on sale,” He said angrily. “if I didn’t have the money I wouldn’t have spent it. Destiny keeps her gifts and that’s final.”

  “I’m sorry Dess, I didn’t mean anything,” she looked at her friend and gave her a hug. “You deserve it honey. Keep it really; I was just a little jealous.”

  “Destiny smiled at her, and then Jake picked up the luggage and guided Destiny towards the door of the hanger. Vickie followed them out of the hanger, practically running to catch up to them.

  Lisa turned to Brian. “You knew about this, didn’t you?”

  “Lisa, I think he’s in love with her.” Brian walked up to her and rested his hands on her shoulders. “Let it be, honey. It will work itself out.”

  “What about Vickie?” She said.

  “What will be, will be.” Brian bent down and picked up the luggage.

  “If he hurts Destiny Brian, I’m blaming you.”

  “Lisa, stop sheltering the girl, that’s what her parents did and look where she is at now. Destiny has to experience life sooner or later and you know it.”

  “I just love her, she’s my best friend.” Lisa looked down at the floor.

Brian dropped the bags he was caring and walked over to her, hugging her body close to him. “I know baby, but someday we need to let her fly, she won’t ever be happy if we constantly clip those wings of hers and eventually she’ll die, her spirit will shrivel up and die.”

   Lisa nodded. Then Brian put his hand under her chin tilting it up, closing the gap between them, and kissing her passionately, Lisa reached up wrapping her arms around him. She leaned back. “I love you”

  “I love you too, baby.” He kissed her quickly. Then stepped away from her and gave a reassuring smile. “Let’s go fly.” He wiggled his eyebrows at her.

   Lisa giggled and went to the back of the little car; they picked up the luggage and walked over to Jake, Destiny, and Vickie who were standing by the plane. They set the luggage down with the rest of them, and then followed Jake to a tiny metal building with a bay window in front and a tower off to the side. A tall, gray haired man in an orange jumpsuit walked over to them. He went over to Jake and threw his arms around him, engulfing him in a big bear hug.

  “Son, so glad to see you, how was your trip?”

  “Fine dad, I have some people I would like you to meet.” Jake turned to his companions.

  His dad turned, a smile beaming across his face.

  Jake pointed to each one of his friends as he called their names. “Dad this is Brian…Lisa…Vickie…and Destiny.”

  “Everybody this is my dad Jake Ryan Senior.” Jake put an arm around his dad’s shoulders.

  Destiny could not help but notice how much Jake’s dad looked like Jake just an older version of him. He still had well defined muscles, and a handsome face like some Greek god. He carried a since of wisdom and strength when he walked and his voice was husky and smooth just like his sons. Destiny couldn’t help but like this man, he was nice but carried a since of power that demanded respect.

  “Hi, I’m Jake’s fiancée.” Vickie offered her hand to him.

  Jakes dad accepted it than flashed his son an inquisitive look. Jake did not miss the expression.

  “Well,” Jakes dad paused. “Why don’t you guys get your stuff on the plane and get ready for take off. It’s the one over to your right. I hope you have a great time and my son doesn’t work you to hard.”

  “Thank you, sir.” Destiny smiled.

 Jake Senior smiled at her than put his arm around his son’s shoulders and started to guide him to his office. Jake turned towards his dad; he knew what his dad was doing. Jake hadn’t told anyone about his engagement with Vickie yet and he was sure his dad wanted to know what the hell was going on.

  “If you will excuse me,” he addressed Vickie then turned to the rest of the group; I’ll steal Jake from you for a bit, I need to talk with my son.” He glanced over to Jake then smiled at the rest of the group and turned to walk away.

  “That’s fine dad, but I got to put my stuff on the plane first.”

  “I’m sure your fiancée can handle it.” Jake Sr. turned and looked at the pretty woman who was standing looking at the luggage like it was some kind of monster that would jump up and bite her any second.

  “Yeah right,” Jake muttered to himself. “She’s not into manual labor dad.”

  Vickie reached down and picked up her suitcase than immediately dropped, sticking her index finger in her mouth. Than with drawing it and looked at the nail. She looked towards Jake than turned towards Brian and flashed him a big smile. “Brian, sweetie can I get you to help me, I broke a nail.” She held up her hand to show him her finger.

  Brian rolled his eyes and walked over to her, stopping briefly to admire her broken nail, than picked up the luggage. He looked at Jake and mouthed. “My poor little nail,” exaggerating the poor part, then smiled at him before turning towards the plane.

  Jake’s dad watched all this with amusement on his face. Than shook his head and chuckled before turning towards his son one more time. “I see.” Was all he had to say?

  Jake felt so embarrassed; he could not believe Vickie had done that right in front of his dad. He new he was never going to hear the end of this one for as long as he lived. He returned his dad’s smile. Jake turned to pick up his luggage.

  Destiny watched the whole scene from were she was standing next to Lisa. Vickie never seemed to amaze her. She politely excused herself, than hobbled over towards Jake and his dad passing Brian on the way. She couldn’t help but smile when he made a silent boo woo face and walked past her pretending to cry.

  “Excuse me Jake?”

  Both men looked at her.

 “Jake Junior.” She pointed at Jake while smiling at his dad. “I’ll get your bags for you, if you want to go talk to your dad.”

  “That’s okay Dess, I can get it.”

  Destiny bent down and grabbed his stuff; she slightly stumbled with her ankle, before she caught her balance. She looked up at the men and flashed them a smile, she saw Jake head towards her.

  “I got it,” she smiled. “I’m fine really, go talk with your dad.”

  Destiny turned and headed towards the plane with Lisa who had grabbed her stuff and Joined Destiny when she had reached her. They both headed off together.

  “Come on son.” His dad directed him towards the office again.

  The two men walked into the office, Jake’s dad holding the door open for his son. Jake went over and sat in a chair next to his dad’s desk. Jake Senior went behind his great oak desk and sat in a huge cloth desk chair; he leaned back and rested his feet on top of the colossal oak mammoth.                

  Jake sat quietly, resting his ankle on his knee. He was waiting for the inevitable lecture on how stupid he was being for getting married this young and what he was thinking about throwing his life away like that, so on, and so on, and so on. Know matter what his dad said to him he was not going to tell him about the baby, which would make his dad furious. Ever since he could remember his dad told him and his older brother, if you have sex use protection. He had drummed it in their heads since they were fifteen, and the one night Jake didn’t follow his dad’s advice, his girlfriend ended up pregnant.

  “Didn’t know you were getting married?” Jake Sr. raised an eyebrow.

  “Ya, well we decided a couple of weeks ago.” Jake shifted uncomfortably in his chair.

  “Oh! How long have you guys been seeing each other?”

  “For a while now.”

  “That long?” Jake Sr. smiled at his son. He withdrew his feet from upon his desk and placed them on the floor. He leaned forward, his hands together and placed them on the top.

  “She’s a little…” He paused. “spoiled for your tastes. Don’t get me wrong she’s very pretty, just seems like she would rather be waited on than be the one doing the waiting.”

  “I think she’ll snap out of it.”

  “Never try and change a woman Jake. That’s what I tried to do with your mother and it killed her.”

  “Dad, that wasn’t your fault.”

  Jake remembered that day like it had only happened yesterday. His mother always liked money, which she had plenty from his dad, but she also wanted the attention to go with it. She had wanted servants and limos that catered to her every need. His dad had said no one in his family would be serviced by other people as long as they had two arms and two legs to serve themselves. Shortly after Jake had turned six, she ran off with a big rodeo star.

   One night during a violent storm, while they were on tour, her lover had fallen asleep at the wheel and drove off a cliff killing everyone and the horses instantly. Jake’s dad could never forgive himself for her death. That’s when they had packed up and moved out to Cheeko, California. His dad had thought that if he had only caved in and hired a servant or bought a limo she wouldn’t have left. She would still be alive to this day. Jake knew better, his mother would have left eventually anyway; the ranch life was just not for her.

  His dad waved off Jakes comment and moved on to another subject. “That little one seems real nice, and she’s not afraid of work, even with a hobble.” He glanced out the window and saw Destiny carrying three duffle bags up to the plane.

  Jake followed his dad’s glance. “She sprained it on the mountain, fell off a cliff.” Destiny was trying to make it up the stairs when Brian ran up to her and relieved her of two of the bags than ran up the stairs only returning shortly to grab the other one.

  “Fell off a cliff?” Jake didn’t miss the correlation his father had mad between his mother and Destiny.”

  “She seems okay.”

  “She’s fine, but she should not be lifting those bags.” He glanced towards his dad.

  “She’s special to you isn’t she.” Jake sr. walked closer to the window. Destiny was carrying a huge book or something up the stairs.

  “Yeah, she’s great, dad.” Jake smiled at his dad, who in turn, looked at him. “She’s so funny and can come back at you with the cutest remarks. She can swim and kick box, can you believe it. She practically took Vickie’s head off the first day we got to the camp site; I had to really use all my strength just to hold her back.”

  “Sounds like you two get along.”

  “Yeah, I just wish I could have met her sooner.” Jake’s smile disappeared.

  “You know son, it’s not too late.” His dad stood up and walked over to him, touching his son on the shoulder. “That’s why people get engaged first you know?”

  Jake stood up next to his dad and nodded. If only he could tell him what was really going on. Jake longed for his advice, although he already new what his dad would say, you played, you pay. God if only Jake could have done that night over. Than again he would have broken it off with Vickie and she wouldn’t have invited Lisa and Brian, and they wouldn’t have brought Destiny. It was a catch 22, with Vickie, no Destiny, without Vickie, no Destiny.

  His dad walked him out of the office and up to the plane were he waved goodbye to everyone and told the pilots to take care of his son, than walked off of the plane and over to the tower entrance.

 

 

 

 

   Jake followed his dad into the plane and saw Vickie sitting by her self next to the window on his right and Brian and Lisa sitting together on his left. Destiny was sitting in the back row, her head tilted back against the headrest of the seat and her eyes closed. Jake could tell she was taking deep breaths in and out. She didn’t even look up when his dad had said goodbye.

  Jake walked over and sat next to her. Vickie looked back in his direction an expression of disgust on her face. Jake ignored her and turned his head towards Destiny, than took her hand in his; he reached up and touched her cheek. He didn’t care who saw him Destiny was having a hard time with this flying thing, and he was going to be by her side.

  “Didn’t think I’d leave you here by yourself did you?” He smiled at her as she turned her head to look at him.

  “I think I’m going to be sick.” She was clammy and pale.

  The engines roared to life and the plane began to move forward down the runway. It vibrated slightly as it picked up speed for the take off. Than all at once it was off the ground and in the air, gliding towards the heavens. The seat belt light went off as a voice echoed through the speaker of the cabin.

  “The seat belt light has been turned off at this time. Please feel free to move about the cabin. We will be landing in Missoula, Montana in about three hours. Enjoy your flight and thank you for flying Ryan air.”

  “See, we made it.” Jake tried to pry his fingers from Destiny’s hand afraid she might break one of his.

  “Jake, I’m serious; I think I’m going to be sick.” Destiny unfastened her seatbelt and stood up running to the back of the plane and into the bathroom shutting the door behind her.

  Jake stood up and went after her with Lisa and Brian following him. He tried to open the door but she had locked it. He gently knocked and spoke softly.

  “Dessie, honey…” He heard her heaving on the other side of the door. “Baby let me in. Please.”

  Lisa gently pushed Jake out of the way. “Honey, its Lisa, let me in.”

  “Just you?” Destiny managed to say before getting sick again.

  “Just me!” Lisa looked at the two men beside her. She heard the door unlock, and then stepped inside, shutting the door behind her.

  The men stood there staring at each other. Brian trying to make Jake feel better by putting a hand on his shoulder. He knew that Jake wanted to be the one comforting Destiny, but the true fact was that very few women would ever allow there boyfriends to see them vomiting in a toilet, and defiantly not a guy that they liked. After all it wasn’t a pretty site. Brian would bet on it.

  “Jake can you go get us a towel, please?” Lisa spoke through the door.

  “Sure.”

  Jake ran to the front of the plane where some small serving towels were laid out on top of a small refrigerator. Jake grabbed a couple than opened the door of the little box and took out a 7- up. Jake took all three items back to the bathroom. He could hear Lisa telling Destiny not to worry about brushing her teeth, which she didn’t need to be minty fresh. No one was going to think less of her because she had gotten sick. Jake heard her tell Lisa that Vickie would, than Lisa old her that Vickie wasn’t worth the effort. He smiled to himself. “Lisa I’m back. I brought some 7- up too.” Jake said through the door.

  Lisa opened the door a little and stuck her hand out. Jake sat the items in her palm and watched as Lisa drew them inside, closing the door behind her once more. Jake and Brian stood out side the door for a few minutes when Jake noticed one of the pilots walking towards him. He guessed that he had probably heard all the commotion going on from the cabin speakers. They were put there to monitor the cabin for troubled passengers.

  “What’s going on Mr. Ryan?” He asked Jake when he reached them.

  “One of my friends is air sick.” Jake replied.

  “There’s always one.” He smiled. “Look, if you can get your friend to come out of the bathroom I got some Dramamine, it will make your friend sleepy, but it will help with the air sickness.” He turned and walked away with out waiting for an answer.

  The bathroom door unlocked and Lisa strolled out supporting Destiny with an arm around her waist, she sat her in a chair in the back row and handed her the can of soda after telling her to only sip it. She turned towards the boys.

  “We heard what the pilot said.” She told them when they both opened their mouths to speak. “I need to sit down, Jake I leave her in your capable hands.”

  Lisa took Brian’s hand and led him back to their seats while she was holding her stomach. Lisa normally had a weak stomach and couldn’t handle being with in earshot of people throwing up, but her friend needed her, so she was there. Now all she had to do was get her own stomach under control. She sat down, as Brian went and got her a can of 7- up.

  Jake sat next to Destiny and put an arm around her shoulders. Destiny laid her head against his chest. She closed her eyes resting her hand with the soda in it on her lap. The pilot returned with an oblong pill and told her to take it; she would start feeling better in a few minutes. She did as he said with unsteady hands than laid her head back down on Jake’s chest.

  “I’m sorry.” She said softly.

  “For what? You warned me you were afraid to fly.” He smiled and kissed the top of her head. “Don’t worry about it; on the trip back we’ll take a bus.”

  She let out a little giggle than fell fast asleep as the drug took over her body.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Horses, cattle, and Kent Ryan

Oh my

 

Chapter

4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  The ranch was the most beautiful thing Destiny had ever seen. It was nestled in a vast valley between two glorious mountains topped with green fields that had a few trees sporadically spotting the landscape. The house was a huge two-story log cabin with a covered porch that ran the length of its front. There was two porch swings at both ends of the structure with benches under each bay window. An ornate hand crafted door sat between them.

  Destiny looked to the left of the house; she saw ten small cabins sporadically placed among the trees. As she stepped out of the van that had brought them from the airport she noticed a magnificent barn with four small houses off its side, it was nestled between two huge paddocks framed with white fences. About twenty horses ran free on both sides. It was absolutely breath taking.

  Jake told the group to leave there luggage, assuring them it would be taken care of and guided them up the stairs were two people, a tall blond man and a plump gray haired woman was waiting for them.

  “So you finally graduated.” The tall man approached Jake and engulfed him in a great bear hug.

  “Now, don’t hog the boy.” The woman mock slapped the young man on the shoulder, then stepped between them and embraced Jake with the same type of hug.

  “Hi nana,” he pulled away from her to look at her better.

  “Hi Kent!” He smiled at the man. “I got some people I’d like you to meet.”

  Everyone came together as Jake motioned his friends up the stairs. They stood looking at one another waiting for introductions. Destiny couldn’t help but notice that the man Jake called Kent kept glancing in her direction. Jake seemed not to miss it either because he came up and put an arm around her.

  “This is Brian and his girlfriend Lisa.” He pointed to the couple standing side by side. “That’s Vickie and this beautiful young thing, is Destiny.”

  Kent smiled at them.

 “This is Kent my older brother, he runs the ranch. And this gorgeous creature…” He walked over to the little old woman and put an arm around her shoulders. “is Nana, my grandmother.”

  “Oh Jake, such a flatterer,” Nana patted his chest.

  Everyone took their turn shaking the others hands and saying how nice it was to be here and how beautiful the place was. How Kent hoped they would have a good time even though they were brought here to work. Destiny didn’t miss the look of displeasure on Vickie’s face as he mentioned that four-letter word, WORK.

  They were ushered inside, and were met by an elaborately sculptured grand stair case leading to an upper balcony that over looked the living room downstairs. It had five sets of long windows with scenery of mountains and meadows as a backdrop.

  Nana led the group up the stairway to the balcony. There where two hallways on either side each had four doors leading to grand bedrooms. The girls where showed to the right of the stair way were they each chose a room and the boys to the left were they did the same. Nana pleasantly informed them that her room was the first door to their right and there would be no boys permitted beyond that point.

  After they were settled they went down stairs to the living room where Jake and Kent showed them the dinning area off to the right of the living area. The dining room table was a long rectangle made of logs that were cut in half, the flat side facing upward. It sat ten, four on each side and two on the end.

  Just beyond the table was a big door that led into the kitchen; it was just as elaborate as the rest of the house with two giant refrigerators and a walk in freezer. There was a giant counter in the middle of the room with two stoves on both sides. There was a giant dishwasher that looked like it belonged in a restaurant nestled between two counters against the wall. After seeing the kitchen they where taken back through the door and on the other side of the living area.

  This opened into a great room with a pool table and a bar off in the back corner. There were even video games and a tiny stage with a microphone and a disc jockeys turntable.

When Destiny looked to the right, she was greeted with a magnificent view of the open country through a row of windows that went from the bottom to the top of the ceiling. A glass door was nestled in between them.

  A grand porch stood off the back of the house. It had four tables with chairs and an umbrella covering each one, a log railing wrapped around the structure. Stairs led down to luscious green grass. You could walk from the porch to the barn in a short time.

  Nana soon joined the group motioning for them to have a seat in the living room, she had some ground rules to go over and than they could do as they pleased. Brian and Lisa sat next to one another on the black plush love seat, while Kent, Destiny, Jake and Vickie squeezed on the matching couch. Nana sat in the over stuffed chair which allowed her to view them all.

  “I run a clean house,” Nana began. “I expect you to clean up after yourselves. The meal schedule is as follows. Breakfast is at 6:00 am followed by lunch at 10:30 and dinner at 3:00pm. Supper is the last meal of the day; it begins at 7:00 no later. Boys are not allowed in the girl’s rooms and vise versa. All rules are concrete and not to be changed with out prior authorization by me. Oh yeah, and have fun.” She smiled at all of them than got up and went into the kitchen.

  Destiny turned and looked at the group, she didn’t miss the look on Lisa and Vickie’s faces; they were defiantly upset about the whole no boys in the room’s thing. Destiny wanted to go outside and see the barn and the horses. She was hoping she would be able to work with them while she was here. The last time she’d been on a horse was when she was seven and she was dying to get on one again. She turned towards Kent, and asked.

  “Can we go see the horses?”

  “Sure, I was going to show you the barn anyway.”

  Kent stood up followed by everybody else. They left the house and walked over to the barn. Destiny stopped by the pasture and watched the horses running across the green grass. They were beautiful. There must have been one of every color.

  “Do you like horses?” Kent asked. He had never seen such a stunning woman in his life. Her eyes were like a storm; gray and blue mixing together like the clouds of a rainstorm that grew in the sky right before a down poor. Her skin was gold and flawless with long luxurious hair that was a golden blond with high lights of white. She looked like a delicate china doll that needed to be cared for and protected.

  “I love horses. It’s been a long time since I’ve ridden though.”

  “Well, we will just have to remedy that won’t we?" Jake put an arm around her shoulders than turned her towards the barn and away from his brother. If he couldn’t have her, his brother wasn’t going to either. There was no way he’d be able to see her with Kent. Was it jealousy? Or something else? Protectiveness maybe? Jake justified his feelings. Kent was too experienced for Destiny. She needed someone who would look after her and treat her like the rare treasure she was.

  The group entered the barn through a big door that led to the stables. There were two rows of stalls, the out side row had ten the inside row had eight, in-between the inside row was a gate that led into a rodeo size arena. Kent told them that there was an identical set of stalls on the other side of the barn.

  Kent asked if they would like to go riding and when all but Vickie said yes he gathered the hired cowhands and they brought in six horses and helped the group saddle them up. After a brief lesson in horsemanship, everyone led their horses to the arena. The cowhands helped the girls on there mounts as the boys jumped on theirs, and they all started at a walk around the great sandy floored oval. Jake rode along side Vickie, not by choice. Brian and Lisa rode side by side and Kent rode with Destiny.

  “You seem to be doing okay.” Kent said.

  “Well, I have ridden before it’s just been a long time.” She smiled at her companion.      

  “You want to go a little faster?” Kent asked.

  “Oh can I?”

  “Of course”

  “Good.” Destiny clicked to her mount and applied gentle pressure to her sides and cantered away from him.

  Kent just stared in shock as he watched her ride off around the arena. He noticed Jake in a full run after her. ‘What the hell is he doing?’ Kent asked him self, than took off after his brother. When he caught up to him he looked at Jake bewildered.

  “What are you doing?”

  “How could you just let that horse run off with Destiny?” Jake said angrily.

  Kent reached over and pulled on Jake reins “Whoa!” He said bringing both of them to a stop.

  “What the…”

  “Look at that girl, Jake.” His brother interrupted him. “Does it look like she’s having trouble controlling that animal?”

  Jake watched as Destiny guided her horse around the arena than over to the other three of the group who had stopped to watch her. She came up behind Jake and Kent waving as she went past. Jake watched in amazement as she went back around only this time at a full run. When she had gotten up next to them again she slowed her horse and came to a stop.

  “Well I thought we were riding? What happened?” She turned behind her and saw Brian, Lisa, and Vickie who was has a little trouble, walking up to them.

  “We were a little shocked. We thought you couldn’t ride.” Jake looked at her confused.

  “No, I think what I said was, I hadn’t ridden in a long time.” She corrected.

  “So I see you haven’t forgotten how to ride.” Lisa said as they rode up next to them.

  “Ride with me? I’ve got to cool her down.” Destiny walked her horse away from the others with Lisa following close to her.

  The boys and Vickie rode off behind them in silence. They rode around the arena a few more times before exiting the arena. Destiny and Lisa put up their own horses. Brian tried to put his away with some minor help from one of the cowhands. Vickie had gotten off her horse handing it to one of the other cowhands before marching out of the barn and back to the house. Jake and Kent unfastened their saddles and put their horses into one of the stalls.

  They walked back to the house, Destiny and Lisa walking a head of the guys talking with each other. The men walked in silence, following the girls back up to the house. They all went in their separate rooms and changed for dinner than met up with each other in the dining room. Jake and Kent sat at the end of the table while Vickie and Destiny sat on one side and Brian and Lisa on the other.

  Nana came in placing platter after platter of food in front of them than sat her self on the other side of Jake. After everyone had dished up there food and began to eat Nana addressed Jake.

  “So you’re going to get married?” She smiled at him.

  Silence fell over the table.

  “How’d you know?” Jake looked at her.

  “Your dad called me.”

  “Oh!”

  “So, which one of these young ladies are going to be my grandson’s wife, Jake?” she glared at Jack.

  “I am.” Vickie spoke up before Jake had a chance.

  “Not good on manors is she?” Nana spoke to Jake but stared at Vickie.

  “Young lady in this house we speak when spoken to and we don’t answer for other people.” Nana added before Jake could answer her.

  “Sorry ma’am.”

  To everyone’s amazement Vickie had apologized, even Jake was noticeably surprised.

  “Quite all right, just remember more people will want to be around you when you show proper respect.” She glanced back at Jake than down to Kent. “So what’s happening tomorrow?”

  “I thought Jake and Brian could come out and help me herd in the cattle; it’s time for their vaccinations. The girls could stay here and help you with the house.”

  “I want to come.” Destiny spoke up than looked at nana. “Sorry.”

  “It’s okay dear.”

  “No you can’t come.” Jake spoke up. “A cattle drive is dangerous and you can get hurt. Besides with your bum ankle you can’t ride like you did this afternoon, you’ll hurt it all over again.”

  “I know what a cattle drive is. I’m not stupid.” Destiny looked at him than down at her supper picking at it with her fork. “My ankle barely hurts anymore.”

  “I don’t see why she can’t come.” Kent reached over and touched her arm. “I think she’s proven her self to be a capable rider,  and if your worried about the ankle we’ll put her in the back so if it starts to hurt she can slow down to a walk.”

  “Than it’s settled, Destiny and Brain will go with you and Jake tomorrow and the other two girls can stay here and help me around the house.” Nana said with finality to her voice than turned towards Destiny and winked at her.

  Destiny beamed from ear to ear, she was going to go on her first cattle drive and she was going to show Jake that she could handle herself on horse back. She was going to help with everything even the vaccinations. Destiny could hardly wait until tomorrow she was going to eat than go to bed so she could be nice and fresh in the morning. She ate with vigor as she looked over at Jake and noticed the look on his face; he was pissed. But she didn’t care damn it he had no right to tell her what to do he wasn’t even dating her. She ignored him and finished her dinner.

  After they had eaten everyone retired to their rooms, Brian and Lisa giving each other a kiss before turning to their own separate rooms even Jake and Vickie gave each other a good night kiss, but this time Destiny didn’t feel sad at seeing the affection between the two, she was going to be riding a horse tomorrow and that was all that mattered.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Destiny rolled over as a persistent beep rang in her ear; she opened one of her eyes and looked at the numbers on her alarm clock. 5:00 am stared back at her. Destiny reached out and turned off her alarm clock than flung her covers off of her body. She grabbed her bathrobe and slipped it on, than grabbed her towel and shampoo and headed out the door and down the stairs to the bathroom.

  Suddenly Destiny came up short, dropping everything she was carrying, she had run smack into….she looked up to see a set of crystal blue eyes framed by blond hair looking back at her. She crouched down and grabbed her towel than went for the shampoo bottle when a nicely tanned hand reached out and grabbed it, they both stood up to their full lengths.

  “Sorry, Kent. I didn’t see you standing there.” She held out her hand for her shampoo bottle.

  “Well, that’s because I was walking.” He smiled at her than handed her back the shampoo bottle. “So, why are you up this early?”

  “The cattle drive, I have to get ready.”

  “Oh, well we don’t actually head out until seven.”

  “I know. I just didn’t want to be late.” She cocked her head to the side slightly. “Why are you up this early?”

  “I’m always up this early.” Kent chuckled softly.

  “Well I better go get in the shower.” Destiny smiled. “Sorry again for running into you.”

  “Quite all right, It’s not everyday you get ran over by a beautiful women heading for the shower.” He smiled back at her.

  Destiny waved and turned away from him practically sprinting to the bathroom that was kiddy corner from the staircase. She opened the door and slipped inside closing the door behind her. Kent had almost given her a heart attack standing there like that, what the hell was he thinking? ‘Well he was thinking he’d use the stairs to go back to his room.’ Destiny told herself. ‘Damn girl next time pay attention to were your going.’

 

 

 

 

Kent watched Destiny slip into the bathroom. She was still stunning after she woke up in the morning, which was rare for women. He knew from experience, only one woman he had ever been with actually woke up looking like the girl he had gone to bed with the night before, and it was Rebecca, his girlfriend when he was 17.

  Destiny was beautiful even though her hair was a little messy. Her lips dark pink, her eyes big and soulful, her voice silky smooth, not raspy and course, He would bet money that she didn’t even snore. No wonder Jake was having such a problem only worrying about his woman, this young thing made you want to wrap your arms around her and never let her go, protect her forever.

  He turned back towards the stairs and began his accent up them. He was on his way to wake up Jake and Brian when he had his little set back with Destiny. He chuckled again at the thought of her looking at him like a doe caught in a pair of head lights, the bewilderment of what she had run into flashing in her eyes. Kent was going to have to tell his brother about this one.

 

 

  Jake was putting his shirt on when he heard someone knocking at his door. Well it can’t be one of the women there not allowed over on this side. ‘Than again,’ he thought ‘Vickie wouldn’t care whose rules they where she’d come over here anyway.’ Jake buttoned his shirt as the knocking sound came again.

  “Just a minute.” Jake walked over to the door and opened it.

  “You would never believe what happened to me this morning.” Kent walked in the door and over to Jake’s bed sitting on the corner.

  “What happened?” Jake sat in the chair that was next to his window and put on his shoes.

  “I ran into that pretty angel of yours…” he paused briefly. “or rather she ran into me.”

  “What are you talking about? You ran into Vickie? She’s never up this early.” Jake sat up and looked at him.

  “No the nice one, Destiny, she ran into me on the way to the bathroom.”

  Jake felt a pang of jealousy rise in him as the picture of Kent seeing her in her pajama’s rose in his mind. He sat back in the chair and stared at his brother. He saw the shocked look across his brother’s face as he realized how angry he was.

  “What’s wrong with you?” Kent stood up.

  “Nothing, was she alright or what.” Jake forced his voice to be neutral hoping his brother would not hear the jealousy in it.

  “She’s fine. She was just a little shocked from seeing me I think, after gathering her stuff and apologizing for running into me, she took off into the bathroom. God Jake she looked so cute in her bathrobe and bare feet you should have seen her.”

  “Well I’ll walk down with you to the dining room if you would like?” Jake smiled at his brother trying to change the subject to something else. He had not even had the pleasure of seeing her in her bathrobe and bare feet. ‘Yeah but you got to touch her and kiss her.’ The voice in his head reminded him.

  “I have to go wake up Brian first.” Kent pointed over his shoulder with his thumb.

  “That’s okay I’ll go with you.” Jake walked to the door and after holding it open for his brother; he walked through it shutting it behind him.

  The two men walked over to Brian’s room and knocked on his door after waiting a few minutes it opened revealing a still sleepy Brian standing on the other side. He motioned them forward walking away from the door, leaving Kent to shut it behind him. Brian went over to his bed and plopped on his back leaving one leg to hang over the side.

  “What time is it?” He groaned.

  “It’s almost 5:30.” Jake answered.

  They saw him cringe.

  “Come on buddy, ya got to get up if you want to eat before we take off.” Kent sat in the chair in Brian’s room.

  “Do you guys always have to get up with the cows, or chickens, or what ever that phrase is?” Brian sat up and turned on his bed so both feet were touching the ground.

  “You’ll feel better when you get something in your belly.” Jake strolled over to Brian’s closet and picked out a shirt and some pants for him than walked over handing his friend the clothes.

  They watched Brian get dressed as he grumbled about how Lisa snuck in his room last night waking him up and than keeping him awake with her little seductive body. How he finely ushered her out of his room at 2:00 am in fear that nana would bust in and catch them any moment. Brian slipped on his shoes and walked over to his door holding it open for the other two men then all three stepped out into the hall one by one.

  They made there way down the hallway and to the landing of the stairs when they looked down and saw Destiny approaching them in her bathrobe, her hair was wet, and the scent of strawberries rose from her as she stopped in front of them. She looked towards Brian and smiled.

  “You look awake.” She teased.

  “Ya, thanks to Lisa.” He grumbled.

  “You wanted to play as much as she did and you know it.” She giggled. “You play, you pay, bro.”

  “Dess, now that you’ve totally taken her side why don’t you get your butt in your room and get some clothes on before my companions loose there minds completely.” Brian and Destiny glanced over at Jake and Kent who was staring at her like two bucks caught in headlights.

  Destiny chuckled than standing on her tippy toes kissed each one on the cheek. “I’ll be down in a few moments.” Destiny left the three men two of who were watching her walk to her room, she turned and waved goodbye than disappeared from view inside her bedroom.

  Destiny picked out a pair of blue jeans and a purple plaid flannel shirt than she slipped on her black boots. She put her hair in a French braid and grabbed her hat before heading out the door to meet the guys in the dining room.

  Destiny walked into the room and saw Jake and Kent at their customary spots at the end of the table and Brian sitting across from two of the cowhands. Destiny walked over and sat beside Brian. Nana was placing platters of food in the center of the table she looked up at Destiny and smiled slightly.

  “Sorry I’m late.” She smiled at the woman.

  “It’s alright dear, I heard you getting up this morning. Just try to be more organized tomorrow.” She turned and went back into the kitchen.

  The men sat there staring at her. Destiny wasn’t sure if maybe she’d forgotten to button a button or maybe her hair fell out or what. She ran her hand down her shirt counting the buttons as her fingers touched each one than ran a hand over her braid. Everything was fine. Than what the hell were they looking at her for?

  “Ladies dish first.” One of the cowhands said as he pointed to the food.

  “Sorry.” She smiled than reached for the platter of eggs in front of her. Destiny could feel the color rise in her cheeks. She passed the dish to Brian when she finished putting some eggs on her plate. After all the food was done being passed around the table she heard the cowhands say a prayer, she bowed her head in politeness. When they were done everyone picked up there silverware and began to eat. Conversation broke out amongst the men.

  “So we’re herding cattle today?” One of the cowhands asked before turning and looking at Destiny.

  “Yep.” Kent answered without looking up.

  “And you’re going to let a woman come along?” The other one asked.

  “It’s dangerous work, she could break a nail.” The other one piped up.

  Destiny felt the anger growing in her belly. Damn to all hell, that these men would judge her that way. After all, just because she was a woman didn’t mean she couldn’t handle her self. She sat her silverware down and looked at both men who sat across from her. She could see Jake and Kent ready to say something but she had beaten them to the punch.

  “Know listen up you red necked hillbillies. I’m not some damn city girl scared of my own shadow out here in the country, in fact I’m willing to bet each of you my first weeks pay to yours that I can out ride both of you before today’s end.”

  “A little spit fire, aren’t ya?” They chimed together.

  “Kevin, Taylor.” Kent spoke roughly. “I’ve seen her ride, and if I didn’t think she was capable, I would not have let her come along. I think you both owe her an apology.”

  “We were just josh’en with her.” Taylor spoke up.

  “I don’t care, you shouldn’t jump to conclusions like that, especially when you don’t even know her.” Jake added.

  “Okay,” He looked up at Destiny. “Sorry ma’am.”

  “Ya, sorry ma’am.” Kevin added.

  “Its fine, just forget about it.” She looked up at the men, a smile slowly rising across her face, than added. “So you two want to bet or what?”

  They turned and looked at each other briefly than turned back to the lovely young woman that had challenged them. Kevin answered first. “No way ma’am, any woman willing to bet as much money as you are, has to know she can whip our butts.”

  “Yup, that would be pretty stupid on our part.”

  “You two have a low impression of women.” She smiled at them. “I’m just going to see if I can change that.”

  The two men smiled than turned back to their plates, color filling their cheeks. Kent and Jake watched the whole exchange in amazement. They could not believe how well this girl could handle her self and how she didn’t hold any grudges. The only one who didn’t seem surprised was Brian who was chuckling to him self before turning to Destiny and putting a hand on her shoulder.

  “That’s my girl.” He gave it a little squeeze than turned back towards his plate.

  The group resumed there eating. When they were finished they stood up from the table and walked out of the dining area. They followed Kent out side and to the barn were they took out there horses and geared them up. Shortly afterward they had exited the barn and was headed out to open prairie. Destiny was so excited she could hardly contain herself.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Destiny stared at the prairie that awaited her. They had come to a stop where nothing could be seen but wide-open space. A picture perfect mountain accented with trees as its backdrop, white clouds drifting among the trees like silent observers from the heavens. Destiny felt like she had been transported to another world.

  “So what do you think?” Jake asked her.

  “Oh Jake it’s so breath taking out here.” She turned towards him. “It’s even more beautiful than I imagined.”

  “I’m glad you like it.” Jake was living in a dream, he had actually found a woman who liked the country, who understood the beauty of nature and how free you could feel under the saddle of a horse. She was amazing, looking at this world like a child in a candy shop. Jake knew this dream could only last a little while. After all, as soon as she realized how far she was from civilization, she would only want to go back, just like all the others. Besides he was still going to marry Vickie for the sake of their child. Nothing would ever change that.

  “Jake, are you okay?” Destiny saw the look of melancholy cross his face.

  “Nothing, so you ready to herd some cattle?” Jake moved his horse closer to her and pointed towards the horizon.

  Destiny looked to the edge of the prairie and saw a brown line in the distance. She could see the cowhands had ridden close to the herd and was running them towards her and Jake. Kent and Brian where in the background making sure they kept coming their direction.

  “Jake I don’t know if I can do this.” Her insecurity came to the surface as she saw the speeding cattle head towards her.

  “You can do anything.” He reached over and took her hand in his and giving it a little squeeze. “Just fall in behind Kent, your main job is to make sure there are no strays.”

  “And if there are?”

  “Just run them back towards the herd they should fall in.” Jake let go of her hand and took up his reins. “You can do this Dess, just believe in yourself.” He bent over and kissed her softly on the cheek, than took off towards the other side of the herd.

  Destiny watched as the cowhands whistled and through ropes in circles over there heads. They were almost on top of her now. The herd rushed by, the pounding of hooves vibrated the ground. She turned her horse and started her at a run coming in behind Kent as he moved by her.

  She was running, herding cattle and she was doing it all on her own. Destiny felt like she was born for this kind of life. This was where she belonged. Nothing else mattered, just her, her horse and the cattle. She watched everything, watched for strays, as they would separate from the herd, than she would speed up and push them back in line, than would slow down and fall behind Kent again.

  Destiny saw a great corral ahead of them; its gate standing wide open like a giant mouth, swallowing the cattle as they entered. Kevin and Taylor had jumped off their mounts and stood by the gate ready to close it as the last cattle entered. Jake, Kent, Brian, and Destiny broke off at the last minute as the cattle rushed the fence. Kevin and Taylor ran in behind them and closed the gate, latching it shut. Destiny, Jake, Brian, and Kent brought their horses around to the front of the corral and dismounted, Destiny grinning ear to ear.

  “Damn girl, where’d you learn to ride like that?” Taylor walked up to her giving her a friendly pat on the back.

  “Thank god we didn’t take her up on that bet, huh Taylor.” Kevin walked up to them.

  “Okay you two, if you’re done yapping we got cattle to vaccinate.” Kent walked up to them. “Good job princess.”

  They walked away from her, Kevin mounting up as Taylor opened the pin and Kevin going in with the cattle. Destiny watched as he herded one of the cattle into a weird vise like contraption that held their heads secure as Kent gave them a shot in their necks than Taylor opened it and the cattle jumped out as another was loaded in.

  “See, told you you could do it.” Jake walked up to her and gave her a hug than with out thinking about it leaned forward and kissed her gently on the lips he pulled back slightly so they were almost touching. He looked into her eyes and saw the same storm brewing in her that began to brew in him. Only Brian’s voice drew them out of their trance.

  Brain watched as Jake came up to Destiny and embraced her in a hug, than he saw him kiss her. Brian looked around to see if anyone else had seen, they were all to busy with the cattle. Brian had a feeling there was something between these two, but he wasn’t going to say anything. He thought they made a great couple. However, he did not want this to get back to Vickie, or Lisa. Destiny and he would never hear the end of it.

  “Hey you two, was that fun or what.” He walked up to them.

  They separated and looked at Brian who was looking away at the three men messing with the cattle. Jake stepped away from her and over to Brian smiling. He threw his arm around Brian’s shoulders and started to walk with him over to where his brother and the cowhands where.

  Destiny stared at the two men as they walked off like nothing had happened. She new Brian had saw them and was curious why he hadn’t said anything, and then the way Jake just walked off and didn’t say anything to her. ‘Men are stupid.’ she told herself. Than walked over to the gate where the horses were tied and stood they’re petting and talking to them, after all they were more intelligent creatures than her present company.

  “So how’d you like your first cattle drive?”

  Kent walked up to her. She was petting his black stallion cooing to it softly. He had no doubt her voice could tame the most savage of beasts. She turned and looked up at him, a tear glistening in the sunlight; she quickly wiped it away with her fingers and smiled at him.

  “What’s the matter?”

  “Nothing, just taken aback by all the excitement.”

  “Destiny, I know the difference between tears of sadness and tears of joy.” He reached over putting a hand on his horse’s neck.

  “I’m fine Kent, don’t worry about me.” She turned and looked at the guys, Brain wincing as Jake stuck a needle into a calf.

  “We’re almost done. When we get back you want to go swimming?”

  “Sure, it sounds fun.”

  “Okay than, it’s a date.” He bent forward and kissed her cheek, than turned and walked back over to where the other men where.

  Soon after Kent had left all the cattle were given there shots, and everyone mounted up heading back to the barn. This time Kevin and Taylor rode side by side with Destiny telling her how surprised they were when they saw her ride and how she must have taken lessons and there was no way she could be from the city, city girls just didn’t ride that way.

  Destiny sat in between them soaking up their comments and smiling as they would finish each other’s sentences. She had forgotten about Jake and his stupid male ego. She just rode with two cowboys that were treating her like one of their own. Taylor had pointed towards the mountains, muttering about Indian burial grounds, and how at night you could hear the war cries of the braves as they rode out from the graves protecting their lands. Destiny was entranced by the tales the two men were weaving, that it was a shock when she realized she had reached the barn.

  Destiny insisted on taking care of her horse and didn’t allow one of the cowhands that were working in the barn that day to take the horse from her. When she had taken all the tack off her mount she got a brush and started to brush her. She was a golden palomino with one white stocking on her back right leg and a white blaze that ran from forehead to nose. Destiny put her away when she was done and headed towards the house.

  She saw Kent and Jake sitting on the steps waiting for her. Destiny walked up to them stopping just in front of the stairs. ‘Now why would they be out here?’ She wondered. They had smiles plastered to there faces so she new it couldn’t be that bad.

  “I guess your wondering why we’re out here.” Kent asked.

  “The thought had crossed my mind.” She crossed her arms in front of her chest.

  “Well we thought maybe you would like a picnic by the lake.” Jake stood up.

  “I thought Nana didn’t serve food after ten.”

  “Except when we’re late because of work.” Kent smiled and stood up by his brother.

  “What about everyone else?”

  “Well the girls got done with their chores early and went into town to have lunch they aren’t back yet.” Jake smiled.

  “Brian was so sore from the ride, nana told him to go lay down and she would give him his lunch in bed, Kevin and Taylor are eating in the dining room.” Kent added. “That poor guy looked like he was bow legged when he went up the stairs.”

    Destiny chuckled, “Okay than, let’s go.”

  “What about your bathing suit?” Kent and Jake asked simultaneously.

  “Are we going or what? I’m too tired to climb those stairs.” She said the last part more to herself than the men.

  They walked over to the lake Destiny following behind them. When they reached the lake Destiny noticed a blanket, a picnic basket, and a stack of towels lying on the ground. Jake and Kent turned, each holding out an arm pointing towards the blanket, smiles across their faces. Destiny smiled back and walked over to the blanket and sat down followed by her companions.

  “So when did you guys find time to do this? I know I wasn’t in the barn that long.”

  “We cheated a little.” Jake smiled at her.

  “I had Miranda, one of our house maids and John our cook bring them out while we were waiting for you.” Kent took the basket and started spreading dishes out in front of them.

  “I’ll have to thank them.” Destiny said.

  “Well this will be our last chance to relax. For the nest two weeks we have to get stuff ready for our guests that will be her shortly after that.” Kent said.

  They sat and ate there lunch quietly. When they were done the boys packed the empty dishes in the basket than pulled off their shirts and jeans, reveling a pair of swim trunks. Destiny took off her hat than unbuttoned her shirt stripping herself of the cloth, showing a black sports bra with a gold dragon embroidered on the left side. Destiny than took off her jeans showing a pair of matching low cut panties made of cotton. She turned and ran into the lake and began to do the breaststroke.

  “Not shy is she?” Kent smiled at his brother than took off towards the lake, diving off a dock that was placed there for the summer.

  Jake felt a tinge of anger rise in him as he watched his brother and Destiny splashing each other in the water. How dare she just strip down to almost nothing right there in front of his brother. Granted her bathing suit was much skimpier then her undergarments but a bathing suit was meant for seeing and a bra and panties was meant for being seen by someone you loved. Jake new he was being irrational, but damn it he didn’t want to share her with anyone, especially his brother. Jake grabbed his shirt and pants and put them back on than walked towards the house. He was so mad, not even the cold water would be able to cool him down.

  As Jake reached the house he heard the horn of one of the ranches van beep as it drove up the driveway. Vickie was waving frantically out the passenger side window as Lisa pulled to a stop beside him. Vickie jumped out and ran into Jake’s arms. Clothes bags hung from her arms and hands.

   “I can’t wait to show you everything I bought. You’re just going to love them.” She stood on tiptoe and kissed him on the cheek. Than turned and ran into the house.

  “So how was your cattle thing?” Lisa walked up to Jake who was staring off after Vickie.

  “Fine! How much money did she spend?”

  “I’ll let her tell you.” Lisa smiled and walked over to the house disappearing inside.

  Jake followed both woman in the house and walked up the stairs to Vickie’s room. Even though no men were allowed in the girls rooms, Jake thought it would be alright if he left the door open, but he had to find out what money Vickie used, he new she had brought a hundred dollars with her but that stuff in the bags looked a lot more expensive than a hundred dollars. He walked into Vickie’s room and watched her lay her new clothes out on the bed.

  “Jake aren’t they perfect?” She asked as she noticed him standing there.

  “How much was all this?” He walked over towards the bed were the pile of clothes was still increasing in size.

  “Only eight hundred and something.” She turned and smiled at him. “I got something for you too.”

  “Where did you get the money?” Jake asked as Vickie walked up to him holding a flannel shirt to his chest.

  “Well I used your charge accounts.” She turned and walked away from him back to the bed admiring her recent purchases.

  “How were you able to use my charge accounts?”

  “I showed them a letter saying you gave me your permission.”

  “A what?” he said angrily.

  “Now Jake, don’t be mad, I needed new clothes with the baby and all.” She walked up to him putting her arms around his waist and looking up at him.

  Jake pulled away from her and walked over to the bed and grabbed a pair of pants off the mattress. He held them in front of him. “These do not look like maternity clothes. There not even a bigger size than what you wear now.”

  “See if I buy you anything again.” Vickie dropped his shirt on the floor than walked over to the bed and started folding the cloths and putting them away.

  “These clothes are going back.” Jake threw the pants down on the bed.

  “No they’re not.” Vickie said calmly.

  “Yes they are.” He squared his shoulders preparing for a battle.

  “If you want me to stay here than I need some kind of outlet, I will not be cooped up on this land with nothing to do but twiddle my thumbs.”  She stamped her foot, suddenly her angry face turned into an evil one as she smiled at him “Those gifts you bought Destiny were well over eight hundred dollars. Are you saying that she means more to you then me?”

  “It was her birthday.” He walked up to her.

  “If you so much as take these cloths away from me Jake Ryan, not only will I destroy your life, but I will make Destiny hate you to your very soul.”

  “You wouldn’t dare?”

  “Try me Jake. Now get the hell out of my room.” She walked to the door and placed a hand on the knob waiting for him to leave before closing it.

  Jake walked over to the door and looked at her. “If you keep these clothes you will pay me back every sent you charged.”

  “I’ve already paid you back, I’m here aren’t I.” She slammed the door in his face.

  Jake was so angry, he had to just get away. First Destiny stripping down to hardly nothing in front of his brother, than Vickie charging eight hundred or better to his charge accounts. ‘Women, who in the hell needs them,’ He said to himself. He walked down the hall, then stairs, than out the door.

 

 

 

 

Destiny looked over to where the blanket was laying on the ground and noticed Jake was gone. She looked around the Lake for signs of him when she didn’t see anything she turned towards Kent.

  “Where’s Jake?”

  “I don’t know.” Kent looked around the lake.

  “Do you think he’s in trouble?” She scanned the surface of the water.

  “No, Jake’s an excellent swimmer, He probably just went back to see if his girlfriend was there yet.”

  “ya maybe?” her eyebrows were drawn together concern on her face. “Maybe we should go?”

  “Are you sure?” I mean I’m sure he is fine. “We can swim a little longer.”

  “No, I’m getting kind of cold.” Kent reached over and put his hands on both of her arms and began running them up and down them briskly.

  “Yeah you feel cold, come on sweetie lets get you into your cloths and back up to the house were its warm.”

  They got out of the water and went over to the blanket where they dried off with the towels that were brought for them. Destiny asked Kent to turn around while she slipped out of her underwear and bra and back into her shirt and jeans, She wrapped her garments in her towel and grabbed her hat. When she was done Kent reached down and grabbed his clothes than put his shoes on. They walked back up to the house together.

  “Isn’t that Jake over there?” Destiny pointed to a large willow tree off to the side of the house. A figure sat on one of the branches.

  “It kind of looks like him doesn’t it?” Kent started to walk over to the tree when Destiny grabbed his arm.

  “Why don’t you go up to the house and I’ll go see if Jake’s okay.”

  “Are you sure?”

  “I’m sure. Go on and let Lisa know I’ll be along shortly. Kent can you take my stuff in for me?” She smiled, and held out the towel with her undergarments wrapped in it.

  “I’ll put this in your room.” He took the towel and put it under his arm that was holding the basket and placed her hat on his head, it didn’t fit so she giggled to herself as he walked away.

  Kent walked back towards the house. Destiny waited until he disappeared inside than walked over to where the tree stood looming over a small doghouse. Destiny approached cautiously, than saw an old bloodhound lying in its doorway. It lifted its head to look at her than obviously deciding she was no threat, it laid its head back down and went to sleep. Destiny walked over to the trunk of the tree and looked up smiling at Jake straddling a thick branch.

  “Some guard dog.” Destiny said jokingly.

  “Go away Destiny.” Jake said in an angry voice.

  “What’s wrong with you?”

  Jake looked down at her briefly than lifted his head and stared out at the mountains.

  “Why don’t you come down here and talk to me?”

  “No, just go away.”

  “Look Jake if you’re not going to come down here and talk to me,” Destiny walked to the tree and began to climb it. “I’ll just have to come up there and talk to you.”

  Destiny finished the climb and sat down across from him on the same branch. Jake just looked at her. Was there anything this girl couldn’t do? He brought up one of his legs and rested his foot on the branch careful not to loose his balance than laid his arm on his knee. He grabbed some leaves and started to tear them into little bits.

  “What are you doing up here?”

  “Trying to find out what’s wrong with you.” She looked at him angrily.

  “Nothing, I just want to be alone.” He looked down at his hands watching his fingers mutilating the leaves.

  “Well that’s obvious.” She looked down at his hands than back to his face. “Now are you going to tell me what’s wrong?”

  “Trust me you don’t want to know.”

  “Try me.”

  Jake sighed. “Fine!” He said angrily. “You really want to know?”

  “That’s why I’m here.” She matched his tone.

  “What the hell did you think you were doing stripping in front of my brother like that?"

  “First of all it was hardly stripping. Second why would you care anyway? You’ve made it perfectly clear that you want nothing to do with me other than just friends.”

  “That’s not true; I have other obligations that you don’t understand.”

  “So why don’t you explain them to me?”

  “Why don’t you tell me why you practically stripped in front of my brother?”

  “First of all it was a sports bra and a pair of cotton underwear, if you ask me a bikini is much more reveling.”

  “I’m sure my brother didn’t think so.” He looked up at her.

  “I’m not interested in your brother, so I could really care less.” Destiny turned and started to climb down the tree.

  “So, did he try anything?” Jake scooted down the branch and to the trunk and followed her down.

  “Don’t worry about it Jake.” She stopped momentarily to look up at him. “You have other obligations remember.”

  “Damn it, Destiny.” He saw her resume her decent, reaching the ground in moments. He jumped the few remaining feet and ran after her as she walked away from him. He caught her by the arm and spun her around to face him.

  “Let me go.” She pulled her arm from his grip.

  Jake reached up and clutched her face in his hands; fresh tears hit his skin like warm raindrops, stinging his hands.

  “Don’t you understand that I have never wanted a woman more than I want you? That every time I see you with another guy I am so consumed by jealously that I could kill. The thought of you being with anyone other than me drives me crazy.”

  “Than why.. can’t.. you.. leave her?” She said angrily.

  “Because I could never live with myself if I did.” He lowered his voice to almost a whisper.

  “What ever she’s got on you, I’ll help you fight it.”

  “Maybe it would be better if you got together with my brother.” Jake changed the subject.

  “Jake, stop it. I told you I want nothing to do with him in that way. I wasn’t trying to flirt with him. I was just tired and hungry and didn’t want to go up stairs to get my bathing suit on.” She cried.

  “I know, honey.” He pulled her in his arms and hugged her. “I’m sorry for being angry.”

  Jake held her tight against him.

  “To tell you the truth I was trying to flirt with you.” Destiny stepped away and looked at him.

  Jake lifted her chin than gently wiped away her tears with his thumb, he bent her head slightly and captured her lips with his. She tasted of salt from her tears and apples from her lunch. She pressed her body in to his totally giving her self to him. ‘This girl is going to completely drive me out of my mind.’ He thought.

  Jake pulled away from her, his blood boiling to the point of over flowing. If he didn’t stop now he wasn’t sure he was going to be able to. He brushed stray hairs that had escaped from her braid away from her face and looked into her eyes that were begging him for more.

  “What I’m I going to do with you?” He whispered.

  “Take me and make me yours.” She said as the storm rose in her eyes.

  “Come my little witch, time to go.” He smiled than kissed her on the forehead and took her hand and walked towards the house.

  Jake new he would never be able to accept her request. If he ever made love to her he would be lost, torn between her and his other obligations. He would literally self-destruct.

  Jake and Destiny walked in to the house and dropped each other’s hands when they saw

everyone sitting in the living room. Everybody was too busy talking to even notice that they had walked in together. Jake gently pushed Destiny forward than after she had gone a few steps he started to follow. Destiny sat by Brian and Lisa as Jake sat next to Vickie they looked up at Kent who was standing in the middle of the room holding a piece of

paper and reading from it.

  “Starting tomorrow we are all going to be trained in what ever project is assigned to you. Brain I have you signed up for the fishing boats. There canoes basically and one chris craft. But you will only need to take that one out for big groups. Does this sound like something you can do?”

  “Sure!” He smiled then rubbed his upper legs. “As long as you don’t make me get on those horses again, I’ll do anything you want.”

  Even one broke out in laughter. Kent stood up and walked over to Destiny. “nope I thought I’d let Destiny do the horse thing she has a way with them.” He smiled down at her. “Does that sound like something you would like to do? Show a bunch of city slickers the trails?”

  “Yes, I would love too.” She smiled at him. She couldn’t help but notice Jake clench his jaw with frustration. Hell if he wasn’t going to be reasonable, then maybe she needed to take matters into her own hands. If Jake didn’t like her talking to his brother because it made him jealous then perhaps he was just going to have to cultivate that feeling until he realized that he loved her and wanted her. She new it was playing dirty, but he had left her with no other choice.

   Kent touched her nose with a finger tip then turned towards Lisa, “Are you any good at swimming?”

  “Well, I used to be long on my high school swim team.”

  “Would you like to be the resident life guard, and when you’re not doing that you can help nana around the house?”

  “Sure sounds fun.” She smiled.

  Kent walked over to Vickie. “I need you to be in charge of getting the vacation homes clean. You will also be the one who will change their sheets everyday and make sure they have everything they need, clean towels, shampoo, soap, stuff like that”

  “How come I don’t get a cool job like everyone else?” she looked up at him with her arms crossed in front of her.

  “You’re the most important person Vickie; with out you making sure they have what they need and making sure there stay here is comfortable they would never come back.” Kent put his hand on her shoulder and smiled. “I’m counting on you Vickie, do you think you could do this important job or not.”

  “Kent I’ll be in charge of the guest house,” Jake said. “no offense honey, but you suck with responsibility. I don’t think this job is for you.”

  “Screw you Jake, I can do this job blind folded.” She flipped him the bird then turned to Kent. “I would love to.”

  “Are you sure?”

  “Don’t pay attention to your stupid brother he doesn’t know what he is talking about.” She smiled at him. “He’s been a little preoccupied lately to pay attention to me.”

  “Okay then it’s settled, tomorrow we start our training for our specific jobs. Once you get the hang of it then we will show you the up keep on your specific responsibility. Hopefully all of you will be ready in to weeks to become a valued team member in my employ.” Kent hung the clip board on the wall. “Now go ahead and explore you new home. The sun will set in a couple of hours and dinner will be done, nanas feeding us a little early so everyone can go to bed and be up by five am. It’s going to be a big day tomorrow a lot of stuff has to come out of storage and get set up. Now go have fun.”

  Kent walked over to his brother and put an arm around his shoulders, “good fake out on the Vickie thing.”

  “I wasn’t faking Kent; I honestly don’t think she can handle it.” Jake looked at him serious.

  “Oh, well then, this could be a problem?’ he looked thoughtful for a few moments. “I’ll just have nana watch her. She already doesn’t like, she’ll whip her in shape in no time.”

  “If you say so.” Jake smiled it’s your ranch.

  They both walked outside on the veranda and noticed Destiny and Lisa sitting in one of the swings talking away with excitement in there voices. They couldn’t quite make out what they said but they heard something about twelve midnight.

  “I wonder what they are up to?” Kent asked Jake.

  “I have no idea, but I’m willing to bet it doesn’t have anything to do with sneaking into any of our rooms.”

  “Ya, no kidding, I would love to feel that little one under me.” Kent said as he smiled.

  It took every ounce of strength not to hit his brother right then and there. He saw his brother lying over the top of her, caressing her hair, kissing her body, drinking of her. The whole vision made him very sick to his stomach. “I’m going to go lay down, I’m suddenly ill.” Jake left his confused brother behind walking as briskly as possible up the stairs trying not to hit any walls and causing holes in them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Destiny sat at her bedroom window and watched the clock as it struck eleven pm. She stood and took her cape out of her bag, along with her atheme and crystals. Lisa was bringing the crystal bowl and the four candles that represented the four corners. It was a full moon tonight and they wanted to do a blessing for the up coming month, they wear going to pray for everything to turn out great for the rest of the trip, and Destiny wasn’t going to be clumsy and hurt her self for the duration of time she was here. The goddess would defiantly have to be listening in order for that little miracle to happen.

  Destiny opened her door and looked down the hall making sure no one was around, she saw Lisa open her door as well, Destiny headed down the hall way quietly tip toeing so they wouldn’t wake anyone, especially nana. They hurried down the stairs, and out the door, and across the field, making their way to the lake, in the moon light.

   Jake and Kent looked out Jake’s bedroom window and watched as the girls made there way to the edge of the lake, they ducked in between the trees and out of sight. The two men left the room and headed down the stairs, being as quiet as humanly possible.

    “Hey what are you two doing?” a masculine voice whispered behind them.

  Jake and Kent froze and slowly turned to see Brian standing behind them. “Man,” Jake hit his arm, “you scared the shit out of us.”

  “Sorry!” Brian said as he rubbed his upper arm, “What are you two doing?”

  “We saw Destiny and Lisa leave, we were going to follow them and see what their up to.” Kent whispered.

  “It’s just ritual, it’s a full moon out tonight.” Brian stated what he felt was obvious.

  “Ritual?” Kent asked.

  “Is Lisa a witch too?” Jake asked.

  “Yeah!”

  “Like real witches?” Kent asked.

  “Come on I’ll show you, but you have to be quite, if they find out I showed you it’s my ass.” Brian walked over to the back sliding door and stepped through it, followed by Kent and Jake. They made there way across the field and to group of trees right outside the perimeter of the lake. They hid quietly behind the bushes.

   They saw two female figures standing in the center of 4 candles, one yellow, one green, one red, and one blue. They could see glimpses of there naked bodies as the capes fell back on there shoulders, they couldn’t see details really just shadows. Jake all of a sudden wished he wouldn’t have brought Kent. They held a large crystal bowl between the two of them, they held it up to their mouths and drank the clear fluid inside, and then they raised it up above their heads together and said something in a foreign language.

  “That’s Latin,” Brian explained. They set the bowl down on the ground between them. Then turned towards the moon raising there arms to the moon and chanting something in the strange language once more.

  “What are they doing now?” Jake asked he was completely fascinated by what he was seeing.

   “Their praying to the goddess, asking for a good month and lots of luck, or something like that, it’s a monthly ritual. Lisa tried to explain it to me, but its complicated there’s a lot more to it then what I remember.”

  “What are the candles for?” Kent asked.

  “The yellow is for air and the east, the green is for earth and the north, red is for fire and the south, and blue for water and the west, they call each of the elements to them to create a circle of protection.”

  They watched in silence as the girl’s took off their robes and revealed the shadows of their naked bodies. They turned towards the water and walked into it until they were waist deep, then they lowered their heads in the water.

  “They are purifying themselves, washing off any bad luck that may have come last month.”

  “Destiny needs to stay in there for a while. Poor girl had more bad luck in 4 days then any one I had ever seen.” Jake commented.

  “Yes, but you must remember as well, that sometimes things happen for a reason even the bad things, that we all have a path we must follow and sometimes the road to the end of that path is rocky and no amount of praying can save you from the lessons you are supposed to learn on the way.”

  Jake and Kent sat mesmerized as Brian spoke, the moon light made the evening mystical in some way. They turned back to the lake and saw a strange mist spread on the surface of the lake, it drifted forward as the girls walked slowly up to the beach. It seemed like the mist was following them, or more like presenting them to the earth as fresh and new. They looked like goddess’s walking out of that lake, the moon light hitting the water droplets on there skin, making them sparkle like the water. They bent down and grabbed their capes and put them back on, then lifted the crystal bowl once more, said more words in Latin, then walked to the lake and dumped the water in to the lake.

  “There giving there offering to the spirits of the water.” Brian commented. They turned and said some more words as they blew out each candle. “They are thanking the elemental spirits and releasing them. We better go guys this is the end of the ritual and I don’t want to get caught.” The boys slinked away and took off back to the house. They made it in to Jakes room in time to see the girls make there way back across the field and to the house.

  “Wow that was weird. I’ve never seen anything like that before in my life.” Kent said breaking the silence.

  “Yeah, no kidding.” Jake agreed but that wasn’t what he was thinking, Destiny was so mystical out there, in her element, and the ceremony was beautiful to watch and hear. All his life he had heard how evil witchcraft was, but it didn’t look evil at all, it looked wondrous, and magical.

  “Look you guys can’t ever tell them that I showed you okay, they will hate me forever.” Brian begged.

  “Are goddess’s capable of hate Bri?” Kent teased.

  “Yeah let me assure you they are, all though it usually manifests it self as angry, actually, sense you mention it, I’ve never know Lisa or Destiny to hate anybody, they just get mad then get over it. Anyway, I’m leaving, now please don’t say anything.” He walked to the door. And opened it he looked both ways then closed it behind him.

  “Wow Jake, I’m going to go to bed before that vision of those girls leaves my mind.” He smiled at his brother.

  “You’re a pervert Kent.” Jake sat on his bed. “Goodnight bro.”

  “Goodnight Jake.” Kent excited with a fading ‘wow’ as the door closed behind him.

 Jake was mesmerized by the vision in his head. He lay back on his bed and replayed the whole thing over and over until he fell asleep, Destiny’s smoky eyes looking at him in the mist as desire filled her to her core, and he was overcome with wanting of her.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The attack of the green eyed

Monster

 

Chapter

5.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  It had been a week and a half of non stop training and hard work, but it was about to pay off. Destiny turned over in her bed and starred out the window. The moon was still out and there was two hours before she had to be out of bed. In the past week and half she had been openly flirting with Kent in front of Jake, and he acted like she didn’t even exist. He was keeping his eye on his wayward fiancée, who would disappear at random times during the day or night, and it was occupying all of his time.

  They had four days left before the guests started arriving and do to there hard work everyone was getting a three day reprieve. They could go anywhere they wanted, do anything they wanted, be with anyone they wanted. And Destiny wanted to desperately be with Jake. Kent was a nice guy and all, but he wasn’t Jake, she didn’t feel the same with Kent as she had felt with Jake. No magic spark, no electricity, just plain old nothing, like with Brian.

  She turned over on her back. “God, you’re so pathetic.” She said to her self as she looked at the shadows that were cast on her ceiling by the moonlight. She grabbed her pillow and threw it over her face squeezing it to her head and screamed into it. She was restless and didn’t know why. She wanted to go anywhere, somewhere; it didn’t matter as long as she was out of here. She sat up and threw the pillow at the foot of her bed. Then threw on her lavender sun dress and a white sweater, she picked up her shoes and walked to the door and slipped out of her room, and out the front door. She sprinted towards the lake after putting her shoes on.

  Destiny was going to pray for guidance in her life, she needed direction; she needed to find her path again. She felt as though she had lost it somewhere, between her birthday and now and she wanted to find it again. She wanted to recover a part of herself that she had handed over to Jake. She arrived at the side of the lake with the little dock and walked out to the edge, she felt the boards give with her weight and the squeaking sound as they rubbed together. She slipped her shoes off and sat on the edge of the old structure, and looked at the moon.

  “Mother, help me find my way out of the darkness, guide my foot falls, and show me the path I must take to bring me where I need to be in my life. Oh mother, wisest and oldest of all the goddess’s bring me hope were there is only despair, and pleasure where there is only pain.” Destiny sprinkled some grain she had taken from the field on the way to the lake, on the surface of the water. “Show me the road I must take.” They floated into a design of an alligator like image, the creature that is not only ancient and wise but waits patiently for its prey.

  Be patient, that was her answer, “but I’ve been patient.” She cried out. The seeds scattered and floated away in the current. Destiny sat and starred at the water and the reflection of the moon.

  “That was very beautiful,” Destiny heard his voice soft and welcoming. She turned and saw him crouched down at the end of the dock.

  “Jake?” she strained to see him in the shadow.

  “I hope you don’t mind. I couldn’t sleep so I came out here to think and fell asleep over there,” he pointed to the bush that Kent, Brian, and he had hid behind the last time they were here. He stood and walked over to Destiny and sat down beside her. “I woke when I heard you on the dock, but I thought I was dreaming still, so I closed my eyes again, then I heard you saying that……chant, saying,…?”

  “Prayer!” Destiny said in a soft tone. He looked so run down, so tired, so, not Jake.

  “Yeah, prayer, anyway I didn’t remember those words ever being spoken in my dreams, so I opened my eyes again and this time you were still there.”

  “Jake are you alright?” She turned her body side ways so she could see him.

  “It’s been a while since I’ve been alright,” He laughed softly, but it never reached his eyes. He looked tortured. He sounded deranged.

  Destiny reached up and touched his cheek. He jumped back as if she burnt him, as if she was made of fire, his skin was cold, unbearably cold, “Jake…..” Destiny’s voice ran with concern for him. He leaned forward so his cheek made contact with her hand. And he looked at her with tortured eyes.

  Destiny leaned forward slowly and touched her lips to his. Jake reached his hand up and touched her face then moved it down her back. Destiny felt the need to be close to him, to warm him with her body, with her soul, with all her energy. She pressed against him taking the kiss deeper, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. He shifted and picked her up moving her to his lap; she opened her legs and wrapped them around his waist. He drank of her hungrily, kissing her deeply. Like a man dieing of thirst and she was his life giving water.

     Jake broke the kiss and buried his head in her chest, “God, I’ve missed you so much.” She held him close as he cried silently in her arms. “I tried to stay away Dessi, honest I did.”

    “Stay away? Why Jake?”

   “I wanted you to be happy, and you looked so happy with Kent, I just didn’t want to cause you any more misery then I already have.” He looked up at her. His eyes glistened with un-fallen tears.

  “Ah, Jake,” She wiped the tears from his face and kissed his lips softly. “I’ve been miserable with out you. All I ever wanted was you, not your brother.”

  Jake kissed her then, deeply and with a ferocity that she never felt before. It made her insides melt with the power of his kiss. He was on fire and she was his ignition switch. He laid her back on the wood and brought his hand to her back, sliding it slowly up the back of her thigh, raising her leg and pushing him self against her. She felt a shock course through her body from her very core. And her breaths grew staggered and ragged as she fought against the desire welding inside her. He kissed her neck softly and moved slowly down her body as his hands hungrily removed her lacy panties.

  Jake kissed her in places she never new existed; bring her to places she could have only imagined in her dreams. She felt as if she was riding a cloud to the heavens and it was electrically charged. She moaned out load as another course of electricity shot threw her body. When she was spent, Jake laid next to her his heart beating rapidly his arm over her.

  “What about you Jake, I know this couldn’t have done anything for you?” she looked at him curiously. “You haven’t even taken your clothes off.”

  “You’d be surprised what that did for me, love.” He got up on his elbow and looked at her, bringing his other hand up to her face.

  “But we didn’t even have sex?” She was more confused then ever.

  “It was enough for me baby.” Jake kissed her nose, as the sun rose over the horizon, bathing them in a golden glow.

  “But Jake……..” she tried to protest.

  “I can’t make love to you Destiny.”

“Why not?” She could feel the tears rising in her eyes.

“Because, I made a mistake that I can’t walk away from and ironically it’s the mistake that brought you to me.” He sat up and looked down at her. “Nothing has changed honey, I’m still marrying Vickie, I have to, the evil bitch.” He didn’t intend for the last part to be spoken out loud. He stood up and looked down at her. She looked perfect laying there, her skin glistening from him and not from the water. Her hair fanned out around her head, her lips plump from his kisses. And now he had to walk away. “And the dream ends.” He said quietly to him self. But he could see the look on her face and he knew she heard him.

  “Your still going to marry her, even though you’re in love with me?” she didn’t look at him, she just put her arm over her face and spoke unseeing.

  “Yes!” it was the only thing he could say.

  “Go away Jake.” She said softly and with no emotion.

  “Dessi, come back to the house with me, please.” He held out his hand.

  “Please Jake, if you love me at all, just walk away.” Her voice was steady, and eerily calm.

  Jake opened his mouth to speak then thought better of it. He turned and headed back towards the house as the sun crested the mountains; he heard the sobs as they drifted on the breeze to his ears. And he still forced him self to walk away. He had decided that he would marry Vickie, and then after the baby was born, he would divorce her, getting custody of his child and hope to god he could beg Destiny to forgive him, love him, and marry him.

 

Destiny laid there looking up at the sky as the reds, oranges, blues, and purples faded into light blue with splotches of white, she wasn’t sure how long she had laid there, maybe an hour, maybe two, it really didn’t matter. She just didn’t care anymore. Maybe she’d roll over and fall into the water and sink to the bottom, lay there in a silent grave and allow the blackness to engulf her, take the pain away, and cleanse her soul.

  “Destiny!” a male voice floated through the clouds in her head. She didn’t want to respond she just wanted to lay there, allow the emptiness to over take her, to sink into her self.

  “Destiny, please answer me?” the voice was soft and a few feet away from her. She didn’t want to look at him.

  She felt his hand on her shoulder. “Destiny?” the worry in his voice cut through the fog she had wrapped around her and her chest heaved as she began to cry. Kent grabbed her up in his arms holding her close to his chest. He stroked the back of her hair and began rocking her back and forth.

  “Dessi, baby what’s wrong?”

  Destiny just shook her head, as she allowed the pain and sadness to over take her. She didn’t know how long she laid there wrapped in his arms when the blackness took over; she just remembered waking up in her bed, the sun in its glorious decent back to the earth.

She looked at the clock; 6:00 PM glowed in red neon. She heard a faint knock at her door.

  “Dessi, you awake?” a faint female voice called as she heard the door open. She closed her eyes and stayed very still, she didn’t want to talk to anyone right now, especially Lisa. She heard something metal being set on the night stand. Destiny rolled over and smiled at her friend.

  “Wow, I must have been more tired then I thought.”

  “Kent said he found you by the dock, sleeping.” Lisa looked at her friend inquisitively.

  So Kent didn’t tell them about her blubbering like an idiot all over him. Now that was interesting. “Ummm,” she looked up at Lisa, “I don’t know, I went to bed here, and I woke up here.”

  “Well, Kent carried you back up here early this morning, and put you to bed, he said you were really tired.”

  “Don’t know, maybe I sleep walked.” Destiny made it a point to look as confused as possible.

  “Well, don’t worry about. Kent found you and you’re here now.” Lisa smiled. “Nana told me to bring you up this tray; she figured you might be hungry.”

  Destiny pushed her self on her elbows and looked over at the tray “Steak and baked potato?”

  “Not just any steak, buffalo steak.” Lisa licked her lips, “we all got Lasagna.”

  “What makes me so special?” Destiny sat the rest of the way up in bed and grabbed the tray and put it on her lap.

  “Kent cooked it.”

  Destiny stopped in the middle of chewing. “Kent?”

  “Yeah, he said you needed the extra iron, at least that was the excuse he gave everyone, but I think he did it because he cares about you.”

  “Well, I don’t care what he thinks about me, it’s really good.” Destiny didn’t know she was this hungry until the food hit her belly.

  “Well, you eat up, I’m going to go down and challenge Brian to a game of pool.” Lisa leaned forward and kissed her friend on the cheek then bounded out the door.

  Destiny smiled, and finished eating, as she sat there she noticed the ach in her chest start to fill the void that seeing Lisa had covered up. “Okay,” she spoke to herself. “I get the picture; I need to do something other then dwell on Jake.” She finished her last few bites then got off the bed with the tray and headed downstairs. She was still wearing her lavender dress from this morning and other then a little dirt here and there it was pretty clean. She walked the tray into the kitchen, rinsed it off and put it in the dishwasher. Then, she walked towards the game room.

  Destiny heard Jake’s voice from beyond the doors; she wasn’t ready to see him. She paused. “Crap!” she knew sooner or later she would have to look in those crystal blue eyes and pretend that everything was fine, she was fine, and she couldn’t be more then happy for him. But she didn’t want to do it right now.

  “Destiny?” she heard his voice before she felt his hand on her shoulder. She turned and looked right into the crystal blue eyes, of Kent. “Walk with me?” He held out an arm, and pointed towards the front door.

  Destiny smiled up at him, “I would love too.” He put his hand on the small of her back guiding her to the front door, then opened it and guided her on to the veranda. They waked over to the railing and looked up at the rising moon. “It’s going to be beautiful night!”

  “Do you want to talk about it?” Kent looked over at her.

  “It was just a bad morning.” Destiny met his eyes. “It wasn’t that important really. I feel a lot better now.”

  “As long as you’re okay?” He smiled. And turned leaning his back against the rail and crosses his ankles while resting his hands behind him.

  Destiny copied his actions except she rested her elbows on the rail and folded her hands in front of her. ‘Thanks for the steak, it was delicious.” She changed subjects.

  “Thank you!” he smiled at her. “I was kind of wondering if you would like to go into town tomorrow, see a movie or something?”

  “Like on a date?” she smiled.

  “Yeah, kind of.” He shuffled one of his feet and glanced down at the boards of the porch.

Destiny smiled at her self.

“Sure, why not?”  She was tired of waiting for Jake, damn it, she was going to start enjoying herself. Besides he was kind of cute, when he was all flustered.

  “Great, we’ll head out around four. Stop and have some dinner or something, is that okay?” He stood and turned towards her.

  “I don’t know Kent,” she turned to look at him. “Dinner and a movie, it sounds dangerous.” She met his concerned face with a teasing smile.

  She could tell it took him a second to realize she was kidding, then he smiled back at her. “You’re kidding about the ‘I don’t know part’ right?”

  “Yes.”

  “Would you like to go in? Maybe play a game of pool or something?” he motioned towards the door with his hands.

  “Sure.” Kent placed his hand on her lower back as they walked back into the house and guided her towards the game room. Destiny took a deep breath and mentally prepared herself to see Jake.

  As they walked through the doors she noticed Lisa run up to Brian and jump on him give him a big hug and yelling, “Did you see that, I actually got the eight ball in the right pocket.”

  “Yes baby, I saw.” He smiled as he hugged her back.

  “Hey Dessi, are you feeling better?” Jake asked. He was standing at the bar. There was no joy in his tone, and guilt in his eyes.

  “Yup! Couldn’t be better really, thanks to Kent.” She didn’t miss the look of jealousy as he starred at the both of them. But it disappeared as quickly as it appeared. She didn’t care damn it, how could he expect her to just wait around for him to come to his senses. Was she the only one who had to suffer? The memory of this morning flashed in her head, a memory of a man tortured. Well it was his own fault, he’s was denying himself her, not the other way around.

  “Good, I’m glad you found someone you can be happy with.” He smiled at Destiny then turned set his drink down and walked out of the room, muttering something about going to go look for Vickie.

  “I wonder what that was all about?” Kent looked towards Brian and Lisa. They just shrugged their shoulders. “Okay you two, me and Dessi’s turn, then we can play doubles.”

  “I have to go to the restroom anyway.” Brian excused him self leaving a kiss on Lisa’s cheek. “Be back in a bit.” He said as he left the room.

  Destiny walked over to the table and racked the balls. While Kent grabbed his cue stick out its bag. “Hope you’re up for a challenge girl?”

  “Yup!” she smiled as her mind drifted towards Jake, wondering if he was okay.

 

 

 

  He was easy to track down; all he had to do was walk to the Lake over by the dock. Brain new he had been spending a lot of time there lately ever since he watched Destiny and Lisa perform their ritual. Brian saw him standing there throwing stones into the water, skipping them off the still black surface. “I thought you were going to go find Vickie?”

  “Why are you here Brian?” He didn’t turn around just skipped another stone.

  “I was looking for you.” Brian bent down and grabbed a few flat stones good for skipping and waked over to were Jake was.

  “You know when I was a kid I hated this lake, always imagined monsters in the deep parts waiting to grab.”

  “And now?” Brian skipped a stone on the water.

  “Now it holds a few of my greatest memories.” Jake turned and headed down the dock back to land.

  Brian dropped his rocks in the water, turned and followed Jake. “You know you don’t have to torture your self, Destiny loves you too, it would only take you breaking up with Vickie and Destiny could be yours.”

  “Hell Brian, I wouldn’t even have to break up with Vickie and Destiny could be mine.” Jake chuckled. “But I wouldn’t do that to her.”

  “I don’t get it Jake, I know you love her and I know she loves you, but you deny your self happiness by staying with Vickie? What does she have on you?”

  “Brian don’t, there’s things going on here that you don’t understand.” Jake spun on his heels to look at him.

  “Did she catch you cheating the stock market or something and is holding the FBI over your head unless you marry her?”

  “I only wish it was the FBI she was holding over my head.” Jake laughed, but it wasn’t joy that Brian heard, it was the hint of evil that rang in his ears. Brian took a step back.

  “Then what, Jake?” Brian folded his arms in front of him. “What does that women have on you that is keeping you from breaking up with her? I know you don’t love her.”

  “It’s complicated.”

  “Well nothing can possibly be more complicated then love.” Brain waited for an answer but when none came he turned and walked back towards the house. This whole situation was stupid. There was something he was missing, and he just had this feeling if he could put his finger on it he could fix it. What in the hell could that woman be holding over jakes head that would keep him from leaving her? It had to be something serious enough to make Jake walk away from true love, but what the hell was it? Brian was going to find out if it took him clear up to Jakes wedding day, then he was going to fix it.

 

 

 

 It was three thirty and Destiny was running around her room frantically trying to find something to wear. She really only had two Dresses both of which needed to be washed. She looked in her closet and only saw two pairs of jeans and three cotton t-shirts. Her wardrobe was pathetic. She spun around and sat on the end of her bed.

  A light tapping at her door caught her attention, she got up and turned the knob, Lisa stood there with a long rectangular box in one hand and a curling iron in the other. “Kent wanted me to bring you this.” She held out the box to her friend.

  Destiny relieved Lisa of her burden and turned around to walk back in the room. “Did he send you with the curling iron too?” She joked.

  “Nope, that was me.” She followed her friend and shut the door behind her. “I figured I’d help you get ready, since you have less than twenty minutes left.”

  “Thanks,” Destiny set the box down on the bed and opened it; she picked up the white material and held it up for them both to see. She revealed a form fitting dress that was sleeveless, the front was cut into a v and the bottom was short, Destiny thought she would be lucky enough if it came to mid thigh.

  “Wow that is beautiful.” Lisa commented.

  “I thought we were going to a movie.” Destiny inspected the dress.

  “And dinner.” Lisa reminded her.

  “Ya, I know, but Lisa this looks like something you would wear to a five star restaurant.” Destiny turned to look at her friend. “Are there even five star restaurants in this town?”

  “Oh stop fusing and put it on.” Lisa sat the curling iron on Destiny’s dresser and walked over to help her friend with the dress.

  “Alright,” Destiny smiled as she quickly got out of her blue jeans and t-shirt that she had been wearing that day. “I’ll be the only over dressed person in the whole town.”

 Destiny slipped the smooth cool fabric over her head then turned so Lisa could zip her up. They admired her briefly before Lisa ushered her over to the chair in her room, plugged in the curling iron and started to put on her make up. When she finished with the make up she curled her hair and with a few bobby pins and a hair tie fastened to the top of her head, allowing some of the curled strands to escape from their bondage. Lisa took her friends hand and pulled her up and over to the mirror. “You look stunning.”

  Destiny starred at the reflection of someone she had never met. The woman’s cool gray blue eyes starred back at her. Lisa had done a fantastic job, transforming her into the beautiful woman she now looked at. Destiny turned to her life long friend and gave her a big hug. “Thanks sis!”

  “You deserve it.” She said as she fidgeted with one of Destiny’s curls. Then she looked over at the clock. 4:20 starred back at her. “Crap, you’re late.” Lisa grabbed the white chiffon shawl out of the box and threw it over Destiny’s shoulders and draped the ends over her arms. Then she and Destiny exited the room.

  Destiny turned the corner and saw Kent at the bottom of the stairs dressed in black slacks and a white short sleeved dress shirt. He looked stunning. She smiled and started to walk down the steps when the front door opened and she found her self looking straight into the eyes of Jake. He stopped in mid stride and starred up at her, his eyes wide with wonder and shock. Destiny descended the stairs slowly then took Kent’s hand when he offered it to her a few steps before she reached the bottom.

  “You look stunning.” He beamed, “I’m glad you like the dress.”

  Destiny smiled. “Thank you for buying it for me.” Then she turned towards Jake who was still looking at her intently. “Jake?” she smiled.

  He walked up to her and kissed her on the check, “you look like a princess, all beautiful and grown up.”

  Destiny could feel her self blush, she also felt Kent put his arm over her shoulder and pull her closer to his side. “Well, we better get going.”

  “You’re a lucky man Kent.” Jake said before he turned to his brother. “You better treat her right, or I’ll kick your ass.”

  Kent didn’t say anything, he didn’t even show any emotion just gently turned her towards the door and led her outside to a black 2005 mustang. He opened the door for her and helped her in, then closed the door and walked to the other side of the car. Destiny looked out the window and saw Jake standing on the porch looking at them. His arms crossed in front of him. At first she thought he was mad, but upon closer inspection she realized it was not anger she saw, but the green eyed monster, that had welded its head. Jake was jealous.

 

 

 

Two hour later they pulled into the small town of Mazola and up to a small Italian restaurant. Kent parked the car and got out rushing to her side and holding the door open for her taking her hand as she carefully exited the vehicle. He guided her through the front doors as a man in a black tie and matching suit greeted them.

  “Good evening Mr. Ryan.” He looked down at the paper in front of him, then back up at Kent. “We have your table ready, would like to follow me, please.”

  Kent lead Destiny threw the room and to a bench table in the back next to a large bay window with the mountains as their backdrop. The man handed them their menus. “the specialty wine is a blackberry merlot or white zinfandel. Your waiter will be here shortly to take your order.”

  “Kent I’m only eighteen, I can’t have wine.” Destiny leaned forward over the table whispering.

  “Don’t worry about it, tonight you can have what ever you want.” He smiled at her and opened his menu. “Did you want to try the blackberry wine or the zinfandel?”

  Destiny didn’t know, she had never tried wine before. She sat there thinking for a moment then with a deciding sigh she smiled up at Kent. “The blackberry wine, please.”

  Just then a nice looking young man came to the table with a basket of bread sticks and two glasses of water. “May I get you something to drink why you’re still deciding?”

  “Yes, two blackberry wines please.” Kent said with a regal tone. The young man nodded then took off down the isle. Destiny was amazed he didn’t ask her for ID, she must look older then she originally thought.

  “Don’t worry, you still look young.” Kent winked at her.

  Destiny opened her menu and pretending to go through it. How in the hell did he know what I was thinking?  Is he telepathic she mused to herself, and then shook her head to clear the idea from it? There were no prices on this menu and only a few dishes compared to other menus she had seen at less expensive places. She leaned forward again and whispered to Kent.

  “There’s no prices listed on the menu, how do I know what to order.”

  “Order what you think might taste good,” Kent smiled at her. “You’re not supposed to worry about the prices, love.”

  Destiny scrunched up her eyebrows and then went back to her menu; the only thing she recognized on the damn menu was Fettuccini Alfaro. And she wasn’t that fond of the dish. She leaned back over the table, “Kent?”

  “Yes, honey?” he glanced up at her.

  “Do they have pizza?”

  He put his menu dawn and looked at her, bewilderment in his eyes, “Dessi, I take you to an authentic Italian restaurant and you want pizza?” His eyebrow lifted inquisitively.

  “So, they don’t have pizza?” Destiny smiled.

  “If you want pizza, then pizza you’ll get.” He smiled at her, and then lifted his hand to get the attention of the waiter. With in a few seconds the young man appeared with two glass of wine and left the bottle in an ornate bucket with ice by the side of the table. “May I help you sir?”

  “Yes we would like a pizza, please.”

  “A pizza sir?”

  “You know, a round crust with pizza sauce, an assortment of topping, and cheese?”

  “Yes sir, and what kind of topping for the pizza sir?”

  Kent turned and looked at Destiny who was smiling. “Umm…. pepperoni?” Kent looked back at the waiter and waited for a response.

  “Very good sir,” He smiled, “I’ll put your order in with the chef.”

  “Thank you.”

  “They don’t have pizza here do they?” Destiny asked with a smile.

  Kent winked at her, “They do now.”

  They laughed together then Kent poured her some wine, it was the most interesting thing she had tasted, sweet yet tart at the same time. When she had finished her glass she asked Kent for some more for which he obliged. It took a half hour for their pizza to arrive. And by then she was more then half drunk. She ate her pizza trying not to get anything on her dress.

  “Maybe we should have waited until you had something in your belly first.” Kent smiled at her.

  “Why I’m fine.” She looked up at him, “just need…to stop moving the bench, that’s all.”

  “The bench isn’t moving dear, it’s you.” Kent smiled.

 “Oh,” she giggled.

  “Well I think the movie is out of the question.” He held up his hand again, and magically the waiter appeared. “Check, please.”

  Kent turned to Destiny as the waiter left. “Are you feeling alright?”

  “Who me?  I’m fine.” She giggled. “We can still go to the movies, Kent.”

  “It’s okay; sweetheart there was really nothing playing anyway.” He smiled.

“Oh, okay. Because if you really wanted to go to the movies we can go I’m not that drunk.” Destiny picked up the half drunken glass of wine and downed the rest in one gulp.

  “You will be, as soon as you stand up.” He smiled.

  The waiter brought the check and left and Kent paid the bill then helped Destiny to her feet. She swayed slightly before catching her balance and allowed her self to be shown to the front door. It was dark outside and guessed it was around seven o’clock. Kent helped her into the car and then got behind the wheel and headed back to the ranch.

  “I feel so funny, like all warm and cozy inside.” She laid her head back and looked at him, smiling.

  Kent pulled over and turned in his seat. “Are you okay?”

  “Sure, are you mad at me?”

  “No, why would I be mad?”

 “We didn’t make it to the movies?”

  “No, I’m not mad.” He smiled.

  “Good.” Destiny looked curiously at him. “Then why did we stop?”

  “So I could do this before you passed out on me.” He leaned forward and took her lips with his; kissing her with a hunger she had never felt before. There were no fireworks or anything and she was sure the burning in her belly and the fogginess of her head was from the wine.

  He sat up and looked at her, his pupils dilated; she could see the hunger swelling inside him. “God Destiny I’ve wanted you so bad since the moment I set eyes on you. Please make me the happiest man to walk on this earth and make love to me tonight?’

  Did she just hear what she thought she heard? How did this happen, she looked at him stunned and when he moved closer for another kiss she stopped with a hand, turned, opened her door, and threw up.

 

 

   Kent was racking his brain trying to figure out went wrong, he was sure that she had drank before, for god sakes she was eighteen years old. But she didn’t act like a experienced drinker. Damn he just wanted to get her a little tipsy just enough to take all her fears away. He was sure she liked him, the way she had flirted with him these last few weeks. He just could never get her alone; someone was always around, especially his brother. Everywhere he had turned, he saw his brother standing there, starring at her. Now he was alone with her at last and she’s was drunk and passed out next to him.

  Kent pulled in front of the house around eleven thirty, and not to his surprise, there was his brother, standing on the porch waiting for them. Of course he would say that he was just out for some fresh air, but Kent knew better. He turned off the car and got out then walked around to the passenger side.

  “Dessi, we’re home.” She opened her eyes and looked at him.

  “Where are we?” Her eyes fluttered momentarily, and then she sat up in the seat. “Woe, my head.” She put her hand to her head.

  “Come on sweetheart lets get you up to bed.” Kent helped her out of the car and shut the door as she walked towards the house. Kent turned around in time to see Jake heading down the stairs and to Destiny as she lost her balance and fell backwards on her butt. Kent ran up to her but Jake had beaten him there.

  “Owe….” She leaned over to one side and rubbed the spot that hurt, then looked up and saw Jake as he feel to one knee beside her.

  “Are you okay?” Jake asked as Kent arrived by her side.

  “Jaky…… you’re here.” Kent had never seen her smile like that when she saw him. “I’m drunk.”

  Destiny managed to stand with some help from Jake, but she didn’t have to stand long Jake scooped her up in his arms. “Yeah, I can tell.” He flashed Kent and angry look. The one that said we will talk later. Kent didn’t care stupid jackass, who did he think he was coming in and taking over his date, he could have got her into bed, he would have liked helping her get into bed. But no, his stupid medaling brother had to come and barge in like he always did. Kent walked in the house and went to the game room. He needed a drink, that’s what he needed.

 

 

 

 

  “I can walk.” Destiny told him as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “You don’t have to carry me.”

  “I know, but I want to.” Jake moved up the stairs, he had heard the mustang turn down the drive way and he wasn’t going to go out side, but something told him that he better. They were home early; the movie should have lasted until eleven at least. Good thing he did though, how irresponsible could his brother be getting her drunk?

   Jake opened her bedroom door and walked over to her bed sitting her up. Then walked over to her dresser and found her long silky nightgown.  He walked over to her as she was trying to take off the dress. “Hold up Dessi, I have to unzip it.” Her arms were stuck up over her head and he could just see her nose. It was the cutest thing he ever saw.

  “Oh!” her small delicate voice was muffled through the fabric.

  Jake smiled at her, and then he reached around her unzipping the dress and helping her take it the rest of the way off. He grabbed her nightgown and slipped it over her head, pulling it down her body. She giggled.

  “Do you want to have sex with me?” she asked out of the blue.

  “What?”

  “Make love to me Jake, please.” She threw her arms around his shoulders.

  “Baby, your drunk.” He guided her down to the bed and pulled her covers over her.

  “So, it didn’t stop your brother.” Jake felt his whole body stiffen, if he took advantage of her while she was drunk, he’d kill him.

  “You had sex with my brother?” Jake tried to rein in his anger.

  “No silly, he kissed me.  But he wanted to have sex with me.”

  “Why didn’t you, then?” Jake sat up in a more upright position.

  “I don’t want to have sex with him silly,” she reached up and touched his cheek. “I want to have sex with you.”

  Jake took a deep breath and let it out. “So how was the kiss?” He didn’t know why he asked really, maybe his male ego wanted to make sure he was better or something.

  “Wet and icky, I threw up.” She giggled.

  “You threw up?” the unexpected happiness that came over him was a surprise.

  “Yup,” Jake smoothed back her hair with his hand and kissed her on the forehead.                 

  “Why don’t you want to have sex with me Jake?” He looked down at her and saw her on the verge of tears. “I don’t care if you marry Vickie; I just want you one time, all to my self.”

  “Your drunk right now, and if I make love to you, I want to make sure you can remember it in the morning.” He gently stroked her cheek. It took all the strength he could muster to not take her right then and there.

  “But someday, someday you’ll make love with me, right?”

 “Yes baby, someday.” In about 9 months, he thought to himself, when I’ve divorced Vickie.

  “Kay, I’ll wait then.” She closed her eyes and hugged the blankets close to her.

  “Goodnight, honey.” He watched her roll over on her side and snuggle up with the blanket.

  “I love you, Jake.”

  Jake’s gut wrenched, and he bent down one more time and whispered in her ear. “I love you too, baby.” He touched her head lightly, and then turned and headed down the stairs he was going to give his brother a piece of his mind. Getting her drunk like that, what the hell was he thinking? Jake new what he was thinking and the anger he felt was boiling his blood, his brother would be lucky to walk away of his own power.

  As Jake walked into the game room he saw Brian sitting there listening to Kent spout off at the mouth. He closed the doors behind him and headed towards the two men. Brian looked over at him and stood up walking up to him and placing his hands to his chest.

  “Hold up buddy, think before you do something stupid.”

 “Did he tell you that he got your little sister drunk so he could sleep with her?” Jake asked between clenched teeth.

  “Hold on! She had two, count them two, glasses of wine, how was I supposed to know she’d get plowed off TWO glasses of wine, Jake?” Kent walked up to his brother which forced Brian to hold his arms up in both directions so he could separate the two men.

  Jake stopped; she only had two glasses of wine. Well that didn’t matter, his intentions were to still to get her in bed. “Regardless, you still wanted to sleep with her.” He accused.

  “So she’s a beautiful girl, who wouldn’t want to sleep with her?” Kent asked. “Are you telling me that you have never thought about having the luscious little body beneath yours? Be careful Jake, because if your answer is anything other then yes, then that makes you a fool and a lair.”

  “That’s not the point.”

  “Then what is?” Kent shot back. “You’re punishing me because my hormones go berserk around a pretty girl? How stupid is that.”

  He had a point, he remembered the day he first saw her, his hormones went into over drive as well and he was imagining what it would be like to have that little body writhing under him as he brought her to ecstasy. How could he sit there and yell at his brother for the same thoughts, if she was his he would have a right, but she wasn’t, not yet anyway.

  “I’m sorry Kent, I over reacted.” He walked over to the little round cocktail table and sat heavily in the seat. He saw Brian visibly relax.

  “I don’t get it Jake,” Kent walked over to him. “You have a fiancée, your getting married in little over a month and half, and you have to hang on to Destiny too. You can’t have it both ways little brother, it’s either Vickie or Destiny and if you choose Vickie then stay out of my way because I’m going to be the one that picks up the pieces of her heart and puts it back together.” Kent stormed out of the room and down the hall.

  “Whew I thought for sure I would have to break up a fight.” Brian sat in the chair across from Jake.

  “Yeah thanks, Bri.”

  “You know Dessi has never been one to hold her alcohol, she had two beers one night at this party Lisa and I took her too, she was so drunk she couldn’t even walk. I had to carry her to the car and we had to go home early, thank god she was staying the night at Lisa’s, her parents would have freaked.”

  “I’ll have to remember that if I ever take her to a party.” Jake smiled at his friend. “What brought you down here in the first place?”

  “Actually I couldn’t sleep, so I came down here, figured I’d play some pool for a while and then go to bed. Kent was down here already, bitching up a storm about how you had to come and ruin his date, and how he could have taken Destiny to bed.” Brian smiled. “Naturally, I got curious.”

  “Naturally.” Jake agreed.

  “Man it took me a while to get him to calm down.” Brian shook his head from side to side.

  “Well, I think I’m going to turn in.” Jake stood up. “Thanks Brian. Goodnight.”

  “Night.” Jake walked out of the game room and up the stairs he was going to go straight to bed but decided he should check on Destiny and see how she was doing. He walked past nana’s room and headed to Destiny’s door. He opened the door and peaked in. She was still lying in the same position she was when he had left her. He closed the door and turned and walked straight into his grandmother.

  “Nana! You scared the crap out of me.

 “Jake. What you doing?” she stood there her arms cross and her foot tapping.

  “I was checking on Destiny, Kent brought her back drunk.”

  She dropped her arms and stood up, “The poor child. Is she doing okay?”

  “Ya she’s sleeping.”

  “Well now that you know she’s okay you better get to bed now.”

  Jake bent down and kissed his grandmother on the cheek. “Goodnight nana.”

  “Goodnight, dear” she wrapped her arms around him, and then sent him on his.

  Jake walked into his room and shut the door, he took off his shoes got down to his boxer briefs and crawled in between the sheets. He starred out the window at the moon. The memories that flooded his brain carried him off to the welcoming darkness.

 

 

 

Destiny woke to a bright light in the face and her head pounding like there was a little man inside her scull with a jackhammer. Destiny sat up and her stomach flipped in three different directions. ‘God, what happened last night?’ Before she could even finish the thought a flood of memories flowed into her brain.  Destiny remembered Kent kissing her and her throwing up out side his car, suddenly her butt hurt and she reached down and rubbed it unconsciously, she remembered falling and Jake caring her to bed, she also remembered telling him she loved him.

  “Oh God,” Destiny dropped her head into her hands.

  She couldn’t believe she had said that to Jake, she was such an idiot, and she had to go to the bathroom bad. Destiny got up and looked at her self, “How did I get in my nightgown?” that memory came flashing back also, Jake dressing her. She closed her eyes willing the memory to go away. She threw her robe on and headed to the bathroom she needed a shower bad.

 

Jake woke up to the sunlight in his face; shit nana was going to be so pissed. He had over slept. Jake bounded out of bed and dresses as fast as he could then ran out his door and almost smacked Destiny in the hall way. She dropped her shampoo “oh!” she reached up and grabbed his arms to steady her self.

  “You okay,” Jake caught her by the waist. He saw the color rise in her cheeks when she looked up and realized it was him that she had run into.

  “Sorry!” She looked down at her feet.

 He put his finger under her chin and lifted her head to look at him. “I’m the one who ran into you remember?”

  “I was headed to the bathroom.” She was still flush with embarrassment. Jake was curious that it probably wasn’t just the fact that he ran into her that made her cheeks turn pink. He smiled at her.

  “Do you need some help?”

  “I’m fine!” Jake made sure she was steady enough to stand on her feet before letting go of her. He bent down and grabbed her shampoo bottle and handed it to her.

  “Jake, where have you been?” Vickie’s voice rose up the stair case. “Stop flirting with that girl and get your butt down here.”

  Jake rolled his eyes, “God I hate that woman.” He whispered to himself.

  “You probably should marry her then.” Destiny giggled.

  “When your right your right.” He smiled, then bent down and kissed her lips.

  “Jake Ryan!” Vickie started up the staircase.

  “Gotta go, love.” Then he winked at her, turned, and headed to intercept Vickie.

  “How could you kiss her right in front of me?” she had her hands on her hips.

  “You do it to me all the time with your friends, I don’t understand the problem.” Jake yelled back.

  “Don’t you ever kiss your whore in front of me again,” she turned to walk down the stairs when Jake caught her arm and brought her up short and turned her to face him.

  “Don’t you ever call her that again,” He shook her, “The only whore I see in this room is you.” He pushed her down on the stair causing her to firmly plant her butt on the hard wood and walked away from her before he ended up hitting her. He heard her yelling at him but didn’t pay attention.

  “It’s all your fault, you stupid……” Jake stopped and turned around, as the words died on her lips. He saw her stand up and run up the stairs, Destiny frozen, the look in her eyes was fear. Oh god did he scare her.

  “Destiny….?”

  “It’s okay, Jake.” She walked the rest of the way down the stairs and then into the bathroom.

  Jake walked out side more pissed off then he had ever been, ‘that stupid bitch”, he punched the post of the porch, and walked over to the barn. What he needed was a long hard ride on a very fast horse.

 

Destiny shut the bathroom door and leaned against. Wow, she could not believe he just stuck up for her. He actually told that bitch off. She smiled to her self as she walked over to the shower and turned the faucet off. Maybe he really does care for her after all. She took off her cloths and got into the shower.

  A half hour later, Destiny stepped out of the shower and threw her robe on. She gathered up her stuff and headed out the door. Kent was walking in the house with a bunch of wild flowers in his hand. He saw her and altered his path and walked up to her.

  “I was just on my way to see you.” He smiled.

  “Oh, well I was going to come and find you after I got out of the shower.”

  “Really?”

  “Yeah!” she started up the stairs, hoping he would follow her, that way when she got to the top she could escape into her room. No guys were allowed order of Nana. Destiny had never been so thankful for that order. She was so embarrassed about last night. “I.m really sorry about last night, Kent, I usually don’t drink.” She was saying as she ascended the stairs.

  “Hey slow down Dess, you trying to run from me or what?” Destiny stopped and took a deep breath then turned to face him.

  “I’m so embarrassed Kent, I’m truly sorry,” she looked up at him and saw him smile at her.

  “Its fine Dessi, really, I …ah…brought you these, hoping they would make you feel better.” He held out the bouquet of wild flowers, they were kind of homely looking but she smiled and took them.

  “Thanks, Kent.” She smiled. “I really have to go up stairs and get dressed though. Its mid afternoon and I told Taylor that id help out in the barn today.” Destiny smiled as began to walk sideways up the stairs.

 

 

 

 

Kent watched Destiny as she disappeared around the corner of the second story wall towards her bedroom.  That was weird. Kent thought to himself. She had never been shy around him before, of course she never threw up in front of him either. She was probably just embarrassed about the whole ordeal, last night. He would give her a chance to relax and then he’d ask her on another date. This time he would take her to a simple steak house and a movie. Last time he had wanted to show her how much money he had, show her how she would be treated if she picked him.

  But he was wrong, she wasn’t like that, she likes simple things not rich things. She liked pizza, and country fried chicken, she liked a good soft drink, and a movie with popcorn and soda. She would also probably really like a horse ride instead of a fancy black mustang. This woman was different, she didn’t like money, okay maybe that was not realistic, but she didn’t care about it to the point of wanting to be waited on hand and foot.

  “Kendal Michael Ryan!” Kent froze were he stood and turned to look at nana who was coming out of the kitchen. “Get your butt in this kitchen, now!”

  Oh-oh he was in trouble, well, shit what the hell did he do know? He turned the corner into the kitchen and saw his grandmother pointing to a chair with a spatula. He went over and sat in the chair and looked at her.

  “What in the hell where you thinking, getting an eighteen year old drunk?”

  “I didn’t do it on purpose; she had two glasses of wine nana.” He pleaded his case.

  “I don’t care if it was a swallow; she is under eighteen years old.” She shook the spatula at him. “What if she was to get alcohol poisoning or fell and ended up in the hospital. You’re not the one who has to explain to her parents why their little girl is in the hospital and how his son got her drunk and that’s why she’s hurt.”

  “I’m sorry nana, it won’t happen again?”

  “I know it won’t happen again, because that little girl isn’t leaving this house unless I go with her.”

  “But Nana it wasn’t her fault, besides I wanted to make up for her missing the movie last night and take her again tonight.”

  “Sorry Kent, I can’t go to town tonight.” She stood and turned, indicating the conversation was over.

  Kent got up and stormed out of the house, damn it, he was tired of this crap. It was his god damn house, not hers. He needed to get away, go for a ride on thunder, clear his damn head. Kent headed towards the barn.

 

 

Destiny closed her door and leaning against it, crap, she didn’t want to hurt his feelings but she didn’t want to give him the impression she liked him in that way either. She walked over to her bed and allowed herself to fall face down on the soft mattress. What the hell was she supposed to do now? She laid there for a few moments, and then looked at her clock on her nightstand. 2:47 pm, crap she was late; she told Tie she’d be there by one. She leaped off her bed, and ran to her closet, she threw on a pair of jeans, and a t-shirt, threw on her shoes and ran out of her bed room.

  Destiny arrived in the barn seven minuets later, running up to Taylor. “Tie, I’m so sorry, she leaned over and rested her hands on her legs and took deep breaths trying to slow her heart rate down.

  “Damn girl, did you run all the way over here?”

  “Yes.”

  “Why?”

  “Because, I was late.” She stood up placing her hands on her sides.

  “Wow, I didn’t really expect you to show up anyway.”

  Destiny narrowed her eyes, what was he saying, he didn’t think she was responsible enough to follow through with her promises. He must have seen her expression, because his hands came up to fend her off if she chose to attack.

  “I didn’t mean you personally, ma’am.” He backed away from her as he spoke. “I just meant that women in general usually don’t like to do the dirty work around here, and cleaning horse stalls isn’t very glamorous.”

  “Well, I’m not like other women; I thought we had been through this already?”

  “Ok, ma’am, I’m sorry.” He smiled at her.

  “And stop calling me ma’am for crying out loud Tie, your older then I am.” She walked over to the wheel borrow and picked up the pitch fork, she began wheeling them into the first stall. Taylor shook his head and grabbed his wheel borrow and headed to the other side.

  Destiny was almost done, she only had one stall left, the large one on the end, and she began wheeling her equipment over there. She was hot and sticky with sweat, it was hard work but it gave her time to think and clear her head. She set the wheel borrow down as she started to open the door, the mare inside was a golden palomino with a buck skin baby about 3 months old. She reared up and snorted as Destiny stepped inside.

  She moved slowly, holding out her hand to the great beast, and spoke softly to her. The great mare, came down on all fours, her breathing hard, her eyes unsure, Destiny just kept speaking to her softly, almost singing to her, the mare walked up to her and sniffed her hand. Then nudged it gently, ‘that’s it girl, easy’ Destiny thought to her self. She moved slowly and began petting her neck, softly singing to her, as she moved down her body. The foal moved closer as well nudging her t-shirt with his nose, she turned and ran her hand down his mane, it was soft like silk. She forgot all her troubles and got lost in the moment.

 

 

 

“Destiny!” Jake heard Taylor as he went running past Dustin’s stall, Jake turned and ran out of the stall pulling the door closed most of the way, he looked in the direction Taylor had been running when he called out to her, the door to the wild mare’s stall was open. He ran as fast as he could, praying the whole way that she was okay. He saw Taylor stop dead in his tracks, and all he could see in his minds eye was her lying on the floor, the mare standing over her broken and battered body. He saw Taylor flip around and hold out his hands to him.

  “Shhhhh……..” Taylor quietly said as Jake slowed and came to a stop, they heard her musical voice from the door way, Jake peeked in to see Destiny singing to the great mare and petting her neck.

   “Anus matertris tranquillusaum, nocere non egomet, tranquillusaum, tranquillusaum.”

  Jake had heard words like that before, when she was doing her ritual with Lisa, these were different words though, they were similar but not the same, what did Brian call it, Latin. Jake didn’t now what to do, he was as mesmerized as Taylor. They hadn’t been there very long when Kent came running up to them. “Close the damn door, she’s wi……..”

  Jake turned and held his finger to his lips, Kent skidded to a stop and looked into the stall Destiny was petting and sing to the baby, while the mare looked on with out trying to kill her.

   “Unusaum pron parum, pron pulcher chra chrum, tranquillusaum, tranquillusaum.”

  “Do you know what she is saying?” Kent whispered to Jake.

  Jake shrugged his shoulders, “its Latin, that’s all I know.”

  “Destiny, calmly come here.” Taylor spoke gently and low.

  Destiny stopped singing and turned and looked at them at the same time the mare did, she reared up and Kent and Jake moved towards her.

  “Get back you fools,” Destiny yelled. “tranquillusaum, tranquillusam, anus matertris, tranquillusam.”

  They watched as the mare calmed once more. Destiny backed out of the stall still repeating the words, Jake closed the stall door as soon as she was over the thresh hold.

He spun on her immediately. “What the hell were you thinking?” He yelled.

  “I don’t know, maybe I was thinking I would clean her stall since that is my job.”

   “That’s not your job that’s Taylor’s.” Kent yelled then spun towards Taylor. “What the hell do you think your doing having her clean stalls?”

  Destiny stepped in front of Taylor and Kent. “Don’t you yell at him?” Boy was she angry, Jake thought. “I asked if I could help.”

  “She could have killed you.” Kent yelled back at her.

  “Excuse me, but it seems like I had everything under control.” Destiny grabbed Taylor’s hand and began to walk away from them. “It was you jackasses, which messed things up.” She marched off down the hall and to the small office at the end. Where she dragged Taylor inside and slammed the door.

  “I think she was slightly mad.” Jake smiled.

  “You think?” Kent walked off in the opposite direction then looked over his shoulder “Crazy little witch, using magic on my horses.” Then he turned the corner and left the barn.

 Jake smiled to himself as he went back to Dustin’s stall to finish taking the tack off of him, he opened the door and saw Dustin nervously pacing his stall, all the yelling and commotion had upset him, “tranquillusaum, tranquillusam,” Jake copied Destiny and Dustin immediately calmed and walked up to him putting his nose in his chest. “That word means calm doesn’t boy?” Dustin nodded his head as if he understood Jake, Jake new better though, Dustin did that when he wanted his ears petted so Jake obliged him and gave him a good scratch behind the horse’s ear before he returned to the task of unsaddling his faithful companion.

 

 

“How dare he try and get mad at you, Damn it Taylor, I’m the one who went in the damn stall to begin with.” She was pacing the floor in font of Taylor’s desk; she was the one who needed the Latin word for calm now.

  “Destiny, it is okay, I should have warned you about the horse, it is my fault.”

  “No it isn’t.” she stopped pacing and looked at Taylor. “Say it, it is not my fault, say the words Taylor.”

   He rolled his eyes at her “It is not my fault.” Taylor repeated.

  “Good!” Destiny smiled at the older man.

  “But I shouldn’t have let you clean stalls, and I should have warned you about the mustang.”

  “Destiny shook her head then bent down and kissed the man on the cheek, “Taylor you’re hopeless. I’ll see you tomorrow, and I will be on time, and I will help clean the stalls, understood?”

  “Yes ma’am!”

  “Hopeless, I tell ya, utterly hopeless,” she said as she left his office.

She was walking out the door when a voice came from behind her, “Hello.” Jake spoke and Destiny jumped about ten feet.

   She glanced over her shoulder and sighed with relief when she realized it was just Jake. “What do you want?” she took off walking briskly once more, hoping he’d get the idea and leave her alone, he didn’t.

  “What were you saying to the mare and her baby?”

  “Calm old mother, I mean you no harm.” She stopped and crossed her arms in front of her.

  “And the baby?” Jake walked up to her and gently uncrossed her arms and ran his hands up her forearm.

  Destiny’s breath caught, and her voice became soft as a whisper. “Little one so small, so beautiful, calm, calm,”

  Jake ran his hands to her nap of her neck and through her hair. He stepped closer to her and saw her eyes half shut as she looked up at him, “And how do you say ‘kiss me’ in Latin?”

  “Pron basiare.” She whispered,

  “Pron basiare.” Then he bent down and touched her lips with his, gently kissing them softly, she heard him moan huskily, that one sound caused desire to rise in her, she threw her arms around his neck as she pulled away nibbling his bottom lip then kissing him again more urgently and hungrily then she had ever done before. He lifted her up wrapping his arms under her legs as she threw her legs around his waist and locking them there with her ankles, he stumbled over to the side of the barn pressing her against the red wood. She kissed him deeply then lifted her head as he moved to her neck and back up to her ear.

  She nibbled his ear as he rested his cheek to hers. She wanted him so badly right now she could feel the ach in her belly. “Jake, don’t stop, please.” She moved her waist and pushed her self against him. He was aroused. And the pressure that she felt there relieved some of her ach as well.

  “Oh god baby,” Jake moaned. “If you don’t stop moving I’m going to explode.”

  “Good, it’s your turn, my love.” She shifted her weight and pressed against him again and again until she felt him quiver under her gentle assault. She put her hands on his cheeks and his eyes dilated, and became wide with surprise as the pressure released itself. Destiny leaned forward and kissed him softly on the lips. “And we didn’t have to break any of your stupid rules either. Both of us are still clothed.”

  She smiled at him.

  Jake turned and leaned against the barn then slid to the ground taking Destiny with him, he wrapped his arms around her and held her close to him, his head against her heart. “Jake?” she asked concern lining her voice. She wrapped her arms around his head and rested her head on top of his. “Baby, are you okay?”

  He didn’t speak just held her close to him; not wanting this moment to ever end. He had never felt that way before; no woman had ever made him completely forget everything around him, the only thing that existed at the time, was his body and hers. Jake had to get up and move, Taylor was do out of the barn any second to head up to the house.

  “We got to go baby, Taylor should becoming out any minute.” Destiny leaned back and looked at him.

  “We should run away Jake, get out of here and never look back.”

  “I wish we could.” He looked up at her. “Will you do me a favor, please?”

  “I promise nothing.” Destiny tilted her head down and kissed him lightly.

  “All….I’m…..asking….,” he said between her kisses, then reached up and held her face still. “Is to be patient and trust me, please?”

  “Jake?”

  “I just need a little more time sweetheart, my plan will work and then we can be together.”

  She nodded, but he didn’t miss the confused look on her face. He guided her up and off him, then he got up and took her hand in his, kissing the back of it as they left the barn area, they held hands until they got to the house, Jake went up stairs to change, while Destiny went into the dinning room were everyone was sitting waiting for the food to be served. Jake felt drained, and completely fulfilled.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The mistake

 

Chapter

6.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Destiny awoke to a loud buzzing noise in her ear; she opened her eyes and red 5:00am on her alarm clock. She rolled over and cursed the blasted contraption, she was having the best dream ever until some load sound appeared in her dream eventually causing her to wake. She laid on her back and starred up at the ceiling, this was the last day they had to enjoy them selves and it was only until three o’clock, then they all had to go to the place of the activity they were in charge of and double check everything. Since she was in charge of the horse rides, she had to follow Kent around through all the trails and help mark them with colored flags.

  Kent had made plans at a local bar in town to celebrate the work that had been done and the return of guests to the ranch, bringing prosperity to the land, or something corny like that. Destiny didn’t know if she wanted to be on the trails with Kent she had managed to avoid him all day yesterday, the night before she had freaked him out with her control over the horses, at least that what she had assumed, do to his lack of appearance around her.

  Destiny had to be fair, she had made her self pretty scarce too, her and Jake had taken a picnic lunch and gone to the old Indian burial grounds………………..

 

 

 

  Destiny followed Jake up the over grown trail that led to the ancient burial grounds of Lakota Sioux Indians. The place had a since of mystery and reverence, it was magical to say the very least. When they got to the top, Jake tied the horses to a hitching post and helped set up an area to spend the day, destiny had brought her book that Jake had given her to show him what she had done so far, and to draw some samples of the local greenery.

  She laid down the blanket then walked back over to Molly, her mount, and grabbed her book and placed it on the corner of the blanket with an assortment of pencils and colored pencils. Jake walked over and placed the picnic basket on the ground next to her, then took his place beside her on the blanket.

  “It’s beautiful up here. Thanks for bringing me.” Destiny smiled at him.

  “I wanted to spend time with you, before it got really hectic around here.”

  “I hate to bring it up, but what happened between you and Vickie last night?” she fidgeted in the picnic basket bring out a carrot and nibbling on it.

  “Nothing to worry your pretty little head about.”

  “Jake?”

  “Yes?”

  “Um….do we have a future or is this just a summer thing?” Destiny looked over towards the mountains, avoiding contact with Jake’s eyes.

  “Destiny it’s a wonderful day, why spoil it with questions you already know the answer too?”

  “It’s a serious question.” Destiny turned to him. “I think I deserve some kind of answer? I mean I know that there’s no immediate future and someday maybe…..”

  “Baby, get to the point.” He looked at her frustratingly.

  “Well is this just a summer thing or do you plan on sneaking off and seeing me after the summer?”

  “Right now, it’s a summer thing, because I don’t know the future.”

  “I don’t know if I can do what we’ve been doing anymore Jake?” Destiny looked down at her hands fidgeting with her shirt.

  “What do you mean? You don’t want to spend time with me anymore?”

  “God no,” she looked at him. Confusion was still written all over his face. “I just don’t know if I can keep allowing the kissing, and ……..you know?”

  “Oh?” Jake turned away and looked at the landscape a head of him. He could see the cows grazing off in the Distance.

  “I mean ….. It’s like physically hurting me.”

  “What do you mean?” concern lacing his voice.

  “Well, every time we’re together, I want to get closer, but we never go that far. When we are done ‘pretending’ I walk away, wanting you more then ever, and aching all over for you, physically.” She hoped he understood because if she had to go into more detail, she wouldn’t be able to continue this conversation.

  “So that I know there is no chance of any miscommunication, what your saying is, that you still want to do stuff together as friends, but no hanky panky?”

  “I just think it would be easier for the both of us, don’t you?”

  “Okay then, no hanky panky, But Dess?”

  “Yeah!” She looked up at him waiting for the bad news to drop like a hundred pound weight.

 “I just wanted to let you know that I hurt for you, physically, too.” Destiny looked into his eyes and saw the blue ocean water swirling hypnotizing her. She could feel her self leaning forward towards him, her desire rising in her like a tidal wave. She was so close there lips just barely touching. Then Jake sat up.

  “So, how about some sandwiches love? Then you can show me what you have done in your book.” He reached over her legs and grabbed the picnic basket bringing it with him as he rested back into his original position, and started rummaging through the thing.

  Well this is what she wanted, to cut off all physical relations that weren’t strictly friendship oriented. She wanted to protect her heart from the pain she knew this man could cause her. Destiny smiled at Jake and took the sandwich he offered her and ate it gingerly. This whole no sexual contact of any kind rule that she had just created was going to be hard to follow. She looked over at Jake who was eating his lunch with vigor, so why was it so easy for him to follow it?

Destiny pulled herself out of her trance and sat up on the edge of the bed, the question, replaying itself in her head once again. Jake and she had finished lunch and she had shown him her book and he had told her the ancient stories of the Indians that once called this place home. Then they had packed up and went back home. Jake had given her a peck on the cheek as they said goodbye at the barn then went there own separate directions. He had never looked back at her she realized. He had just kept walking towards the lake. Maybe she had it all wrong, maybe he didn’t love her, maybe he just wanted one last conquest before he got married, and just maybe he was playing her for a fool.

  Destiny sighed heavily then walked over to the closet and put on a pair of blue jeans and t-shirt, then left the room. It was only a minute or so before she joined everyone at the table for breakfast, Jake and Kent at the head of the table as always, Lisa and Brian at one side her and Vickie at the other, except, Vickie wasn’t there. That was curious, but she never missed breakfast she had always made it a point to be there for this one particular meal. She took her place at the table meeting Lisa’s eyes; she knew her friend was asking the same silent question she had just been. She shrugged her shoulders then reached for her cloth napkin placing it over her lap and sat patiently waiting for nana to serve breakfast.

 

  Jake could see destiny out the corner of his eye, he watching her covertly. Yesterday when they had returned from their outing he had to go straight to the lake and jump in, his hormones were running wild and he had to cool himself off, fast. Her announcement on the hill had set him off guard; he didn’t want to stop pretending as she had put it. He was counting on those moments to get him through the nine or so months that he had to spend with Vickie before he could get a divorce and be with destiny forever. He looked over to the empty seat next to destiny and wondered where his she devil was this morning. They had a lot to do today and he didn’t want her missing out on any of the work, he smiled to himself, work boy was Vickie going to hate today for sure. She had to clean all of the cabins today.

  “Does anyone know where Vickie is?” he asked everyone but looked at Lisa, he was sure she was the reason that Vickie had made it to all of the morning meals.

  “I went into her room to wake her but she wasn’t there.” Lisa turned and gave him a look of remorse.

  “Well then I guess she misses breakfast.” Jake took his napkin and set it on his lap.

  “Taylor said he saw her talking to Jason last night and watched them ride into to town.” Kent said.

  “Who’s Jason?” Jake asked as everyone at the table turned to Kent with obvious interest.

  “He’s a new kid I hired over the winter.” Kent smiled at nana who entered the room with a plate stacked full of pancakes. “He young only twenty, but he has enthusiasm and picks things up easily.”

  “Like Vickie.” Brian commented under his breath, but it was clear everyone at the table had heard him.

  “Well, lets eat, and then we will worry about rounding her up to help with the chores today.” Jake leaned forward and took a couple of pancakes from the stack and set them on his plate.

  He really didn’t care that she was sleeping around on him; it would make divorcing her later easier. After all that was one of the reasons he hadn’t allowed himself to make love with Destiny yet, he didn’t want her to have any chance of fighting the divorce by throwing that up in his face, telling him ‘what’s good for the goose is good for the gander’ as so forth, but he was concerned about his child and any diseases that she could be picking up and transferring to the fetus with all of her indiscriminate affairs. He would just have to set the rules down for her. He poured some syrup on his golden discs of fluffiness and ate in silence thinking of how he was going to approach the subject with her.

 

  Destiny finished eating, excused herself and left for the barn, she need to escape her thoughts for a while and engross herself into work. Kent had said that he would meet her at the barn as soon as he tended to some business calls. Destiny walked into the barn and saw Taylor cleaning out the mares stall.

  “Hey Tie?” Destiny greeted him.

  “Hello Dess, what brings you out this early?” He stopped and stood up and looked at her.

  “Just wasting time till Kent gets here. We have to go place colored flags on the trails, so I know which trails are for experienced, novice, and beginner guests.” She smiled.

  “Nice, you’ll have fun. Kent always packs a lunch and takes the person who is helping him on a scavenger hunt type thing so it’s not so monotonous work.”

  Great another picnic lunch Destiny mused. “Where’s the mare and foal?”

  “There out in pasture, I’ll bring them in before dark, it does well for them to get some excurse especially the little one.” He smiled and started working again.

  “Well, I’m going to go get molly cleaned up for the trail ride.”

  “Actually, you have your own horse down at the end of this row.” Taylor pointed to the last stall

  “My own horse? What are you talking about?” Destiny looked at him curiously.

  “Kent bought you your own horse; he said that if you wanted to do your magic on horses you could do it to your own horse.” he smiled at her. “I think it was just a reason he threw out there, I think he likes you Dess, really likes you.”

  “Yeah, I guessed that.” She looked down the row and saw the last stall that usually held all the barn cleaning items. Its door was closed and there was a purple ribbon bigger then Destiny had ever seen sticking on the door. She walked cautiously to the stall not sure if she wanted to look or not, she knew she couldn’t keep the gift but if she saw the horse it might be hard to give it back. She stopped midway down the isle.

  “Damn girl, will you just go look at the poor creature you know you want to.” Taylor hollered over at her.

  “Yeah, yeah I’m going.” Destiny started to walk again, a few moments later she found herself standing in front of the stall. She reached for the handle and slowly opened the door; a white muzzle touched her nose. Destiny smiled and reached up, petting the animal on the cheek. It was beautiful, Destiny peeked under the animal “you’re a mare!” she said more to her self then anything unparticular. Destiny stepped further in the stall and looked at the rest of her present. She had a black mane and tail but the rest of her was snow white. She was the most stunning creature on four legs then she had ever seen.

  “She needs a name.” Destiny hear the voice she turned and saw Kent standing in the door way.

  “Kent this is very sweet but I can’t accept this.” She walked over to him.

  “Think of it as an incentive to stay and work for me.” He smiled. “Taylor’s getting to old to manage the barn on his own anymore, and he’ll be retiring in a couple of years. You’re so good with the horses and all I was hoping maybe you would stay and take on the job.”

  Destiny felt the mare rest its jaw on her shoulder, the worm hot breath on her cheek. She reached up subconsciously and patted it gently on the cheek. “Kent I don’t know, can I think about it?” She had always loved horses and had always wanted a job that involved them. But she didn’t know about living so far away from Oregon and her friends, or being around while Jake and Vickie were prancing around playing house. Oh who was she kidding Vickie wouldn’t live here, she probably would insist on moving to town at the very least.

  “Well whether you choose to stay or not the mare is yours, so you better name her. We can’t go around calling her mare.” He smiled at her.

  Destiny turned and looked at the snow white mare with blue eyes, the black mane and tail eclipsing the white on the edges of her body. “Lunar eclipse!” Destiny decided.

  “Then Lunar eclipse she is!” Kent walked over placing his hand on her mare’s neck. “Well get her tacked up, we have a long day ahead of us and we have to get it all done before sun set.” Then he turned and walked out of the stall.

  Destiny went to the tack room, when she walked in she saw a brand new black saddle and bridle with another purple bow underneath it was a huge wood box that said ‘Destiny’s tack’ on it. Wow Kent had gone all out. She walked over and picked up the saddle and bridle and saddle pad and went over to the stall, after getting her mount ready fro the ride she walked her out of the barn and mounted. She looked like a mustang just a little taller then normal.

  “Hey!” she heard a voice approaching from the side; she turned and saw Jake looking at her curiously. “Where’d you get the horse, Kent buy another one for the ranch?”

 “Actually he bought her for me.” She didn’t miss the jealousy in his eyes. “He said it was to entice me to stay on here and become the barn manager in training, or something like that.”

  “Are you going to stay then?” Jake reached up and patted the mare on the side of her neck.

  “I don’t know, Jake. I mean I would love too, but I would miss my family and I’m not sure if I could stay here knowing…..” she trailed off.

  “Knowing what?” Jake looked up at her.

  “Nothing, it’s stupid.” Destiny pictured Jake and Vickie making love in there bed. She shook her head clearing it of the unwanted images. “Anyway I told Kent I’d think about it. It is like my dream job, just never thought it would actually be offered to me.” She smiled down at Jake, who was smiling back at her for the first time during the whole conversation.

  “Well, I think you should take it. Your excellent with the horses, Taylor loves you, and you’re smart.” He set his hand on her thigh. “Besides how could you give up such a beautiful animal?”

  Destiny smiled down at him and nodded. It wasn’t so much that she didn’t want to take the job, and sure she would miss her family, but it wasn’t like she could never visit or vise versa, it was living so close to the thing she wanted most and knowing that she could never have it, it was living next to Jake that would be the worst thing about the offer and she didn’t know how she could or if she wanted to do that. Jake voice broke through her thoughts.

  “What’s her name?”

  “Lunar eclipse, I’m going to call her Luna for short.” She patted her horse on the neck. She heard hoof prints behind her and looked over her shoulder as Kent came walking up next to her on thunder.

  “Hey Jake, Destiny showing off her new horse?” he sounded more bragging then anything.

  “Yup!” Jake smiled at him. “She told me about the job offer as well. I think it’s a good idea; she gets along well with the horses and Taylor. I think she would make a great assistant for him.”

  It was obvious that Jake’s response was not the one that Kent had wanted. Maybe he wanted Jake to get upset or freak out for offering her to stay. “Are you ready to get going, we have a lot of work to do.”

  “Yep,” he handed her a bag of red flags. “The red flags are for experienced horse riders and they have to sign a waver before they can head out on the trail. The yellow flags are for the ones who have ridden before, just not often, their usually repeat guests that have been coming here on a regular basis. The green of course is for the ones who have never been on a horse before, except maybe once or twice. I’ll show you later which horses should go with which group.”

  Destiny nodded, “Sounds easy enough.”

  “See you later brother.” Kent smiled and winked at him.

  Was that a wink? Destiny mused, oh great, now she was going to have to really watch her back. She turned to Jake and smiled. “See ya.”

  “See ya.” He was looking at his brother angrily, as he responded to her, his voice was soft and gentle though, and then he looked up at her and smiled. “Have a good time, honey.” Then he turned and headed towards the barn. Destiny encouraged her mount to move forward behind Kent and Thunder. This was going to be a long day, and the only enjoyable part that she could even think of was the fact she was riding her own horse. “My own horse” she said quietly to herself. Destiny never thought she would her self say those words and then she smiled, maybe today wouldn’t be such a bad day after all.

  They had ridden for almost five hours before Kent finely stopped and dismounted. They had placed the yellow flags, and half of the green flags. Destiny got off Luna and walked her over to thunder, and taking off her bridle then allowing her to graze freely.

  “What are you doing?” Kent walked up to her and took the bridle then tried to put it back on Luna, but she just moved away from him. “Now it’s going to take forever to catch her.”

  “No it won’t,” Destiny held out her hand “Huc accede, Luna.” Luna put up her head, twitched her ears and looked at her. “Huc accede.” The white mare walked over to her and put her forehead against Destiny’s chest.

  “Some day you’re going to have to teach me that trick.” Kent handed the bridle back to Destiny, then walked over to Thunders saddle bags and pulled out to brown bags. Destiny kissed her horse on her muzzle and walked away from her then moved towards Kent taking the bag from him and sitting on a near by rock. Destiny took out the sandwich and took a bite as Kent sat on the ground next to her.

  “So do you have a boyfriend at home?” Kent took out his sandwich and took a bite then looked up at her.

  “No.” she ate the last bite and pulled out the bag of chips from her sandwich.

  “Would you like to have a boyfriend?”

  “Sure!” she said absent mindedly.

  “Would you like to go out with me?”

  “Didn’t we try that already,” she scrunched up her nose. “If I remember correctly it didn’t quit work out.”

  “That was a date, and it didn’t work out because I was an idiot.” Kent took another bite of his sandwich. “I’m talking about being my girlfriend.”

 “Kent I can’t be your girlfriend,” she smiled at him. “I’m only eighteen.”

  “So what does that matter, it’s not like I’m forty or something. I’m only 27.”

  “I just meant that I’m young and haven’t had a boyfriend before, I’m not ready for a commitment.” She lied.

  “Not ready for a commitment or waiting for someone who is already spoken for?” He asked angrily.

  “Kent, I’m not willing to have this conversation with you. I’m not going to have this conversation with you.” Destiny grabbed the bridle and her lunch bag and stood up. “I’m not ready for a serious relationship right now, who knows what a day will bring, or if I’ll be ready in a year. I just know I’m not ready, right now!” She discarded her lunch bag in her own saddle bag then put the bridle on Luna.

  “Destiny I’m sorry.” Kent was by her side before she even realized he had moved. He turned her gently to look at him. “I’m sorry I’m a jackass, please forgive me?”

  Destiny smiled. “You’re forgiven.”

  Kent suddenly pulled her close to him and kissed her, his lips were hard as he forced her lips to open under his assault. Destiny brought her hands to his chest and pushed hard against him. She turned her head escaping him.

  “Kent stop!” He held her tighter.

  “Destiny come on, just one kiss.” He begged. “How do you know if you like it? How do you that you really know love if you only ever kiss my brother and no one else?”

  Destiny stopped struggling and looked at Kent, his arms released their hold slightly and he looked at her. ‘How did she know if what she is feeling is real, what if you experienced the electricity with everyone? She was drunk when she had kissed Kent last time, maybe the alcohol interfered with this feeling?’ Besides what could it hurt, having another perspective on this whole kissing thing? A sober perspective. “Okay.” Her voice came out choked.

  Kent let loose of her body and brought his hands up to her cheeks then gently kissed her, his tongue gently prying her mouth open. Destiny closed her eyes and waited for the electricity that never came. Kent pulled away and looked down at her as she opened her eyes.

  “Well?” he asked gently through heavy lidded eyes.

  “Uh, it was nice.” She smiled.

  “But it wasn’t my brother?” Kent dropped his arms to his sides and handed Destiny back the bridle that she had dropped.

  “Kent it wasn’t …..” Destiny touched his arm as he turned away from her.

  “It doesn’t matter, Dess, come on we need to get going we have about another four hours of riding to do.” He turned and walked away from her and towards Thunder.

  Destiny felt the guilt rise up in her, to her shock it had nothing to do with how bad Kent was feeling, she felt like she had cheated on Jake. ‘Oh god, what if Kent told Jake about there kiss?’ Jake would hate her.

  “Kent it’s not your brother.” The words were out of her mouth before she could speak.

  He stopped and looked at her, “What? But I’ve seen you two kiss?”

  “And we have kissed twice, so what’s your point?” Destiny turned and walked towards Luna, “Huc accede, Luna, Huc accede.” The white mare lifted her head from where she was grazing and walked over to her dropping her head and allowing Destiny to put her bridle on. She pulled the reins up over her mare’s head and mounted.

  “You’re really going to have to teach me that trick.” Kent smiled at her as he mounted Thunder. “Come on Dess, we have a lot of work to do before sunset.” Kent walked his mount forward Destiny following.

  They had ridden for about two hours when thunder started limping on his front leg. Kent had gotten off of Luna and at the same time that Kent had dismounted his stead, and both had looked at his horse. Thunder had a rock jammed under his shoe and they had tried like hell to get it out with no avail. Kent decided to cut the ride short and head back to the barn. He mounted Luna and had Destiny get on behind him. They walked Thunder back to the barn were he was quickly relieved of his saddle while the bobby the ferrer pried the shoe off the animal.

  “Is he going to be okay?” Destiny asked Kent.

  “He’ll be fine; we will just put a special shoe on him.” Kent reached up and petted his forehead.

  “Well, I’m going to brush Luna out.” She turned and walked out of the stall and over to the tack room, taking the assortment grooming equipment from her tack box and headed over to Luna’s stall. She looked at the white mare and smiled. “Salve Luna.” She whinnied in response nodding her head up and down. Destiny smiled as she patted her horse on the forehead then began to brush her coat removing all of the days dust and sweat.

 

  Jake walked out of the game room; he could hear Vickie’s foot prints behind him. “Don’t you walk away from me Jake!” she yelled. Jake spun around and looked at her, his cheeks warm, his lower jaw set as he tried like hell not to strangle her right then and there.

  “Vickie if you’re smart you will turn around and leave right now.”

  “You listen to me you son of a bitch,” she got right in his face, “If you have Kent fire Jason over this stupidity of yours I swear to you I will terminate this pregnancy and leave you before you can utter one word.”

  “Vickie,” he paused. “I have never wanted to hit a woman more then I want to hit you right now.”

  “It’s your fault Jake, and no one else’s, if you weren’t so damn determined to spend every waking moment of your day chasing that girl and actually paying attention to me, I wouldn’t have to seek the comfort of other men.”

  “I don’t even know what girl you’re referring to, Vickie. I’ve been working; you know that thing you seem to be oblivious about.”

  “If you want to lie to me Jake fine, but stop lying to your self, stop chasing that girl or I swear I will make you so sorry that death will look preferable to your meager life.” She turned on her heels and stormed off into the entry way and up the stairs. Jake turned and walked out the front door and went straight to the lake.

  He didn’t know how long he had been standing on that pier skipping stones in the water before he heard the hoof prints and the giggling; he darted off the dock and ran behind a nearby tree.

  “Did you like that one?”

  “I can’t believe your telling me jokes at a time like this.” Jake saw Kent riding Luna and Destiny sitting behind him holding on to Thunder reins, guiding him behind them. He looked back to Destiny who seemed to glow as her hypnotic laughter filled his ears.

  “Thunder will be fine, it’s just a rock.” Jake saw him pat Destiny on her leg. “You want to hear another one?

  “Sure.” She smiled.

  “So these two nuns are told to paint this room…….”

  Jake turned and walked away in the opposite direction, she looked so happy; maybe he was being selfish asking her to wait for him? Wait for him, what a joke he never asked her anything, just strung her along, keeping the hook set so to speak, he had no right to keep her and not allow her to be free and pursue something other then a looser like himself. God, he hated himself right now. He jammed his hands in his pockets and walked back to the house. Maybe it would be better if he just stayed away from her, let her enjoy the summer with his brother. She would have a lot better time then sneaking around with him.

  “Hey Jake,” Brian walked up to him a smile on his face. “Are you going to go to the bar with everybody around six?”

  “What time is it now?” not that it really mattered. His fiancée was sleeping with the new cowhand and the girl he loved was dating his brother. He wasn’t going to go to no bar and watch everyone being so happy while he felt so miserable.

  “It’s five thirty; I’m on my way down to see if Kent and Destiny are back yet.”

  “They should be.” Jake looked up at the sky as it turned pink and purple as the sun fell below the mountain range.

  “Well are you going to go?” Brain asked again.

  “I don’t think so I have a lot of work I have to do before tomorrow.”

  “Okay, we’ll miss you buddy.” Brian patted his arm.

  “Well better get back to work.” Jake smiled at Brian and walked off back towards the house again.

  “See ya later then,” Brian called as he headed back to the barn.

  Jake walked up the stairs and to his room, he grabbed the Steven king novel he had been reading and sat on his bed determined to loose himself in the fiction of the book. He couldn’t concentrate on the words though his mind drifting to Kent and Destiny dancing together at the bar, laughing as Kent told her another joke. His eyes felt heavy and he allowed them to fall taking him deeper into his nightmare, watching his Destiny slip right threw his fingers and into is brothers waiting arms.

 

  Jake woke, startled from a sound sleep, the vision of Destiny and Kent making love in the meadow by the lake fading to darkness in his minds eye. He looked down and picked up his book laying it on his night stand. He sat up and looked at his clock; 9:00 pm glowed at him in green neon. ‘I wonder if everyone is back yet?’ he asked himself. He stood up and stretched then exited his room. He walked into the game room and noticed Kent addressing everybody. Jake found a chair in the back of the room and sat listening to his brother.

 

 

  “…Okay, so tomorrow were going to need a couple of people to drive into town with one of the vans and the truck to pick up our guests. Brian, Lisa I was hoping you could do that for me?” He paused and looked at the couple.

  They nodded.

“Good and I would like Vickie and Destiny to get the cabins ready we only need four of them for right now so each girl could take two.” Kent turned and looked from Destiny to Vickie.

  Vickie was going to object but after seeing Destiny nod her head she decided to go a head and give her approval. There was no way this little brat was going to show her up in front of Jake or his brother.

  “So that leaves Jake and me, I’m sure we can find something that needs to be done tomorrow. Does everybody remember their individual tasks?”

  He saw everyone nod. “Vickie I was also wondering if you could take the guests to town if they want to go, show them all the shops and stuff?”

  “Sure!” He saw her smile up at him; he never remembered her looking so happy before. Maybe he had found her element or something.

  “Just remember, the guests are in control of where they go, not you. It could also mean some nights away from here if they want to go to a movie or out to dinner or something. If they do decide to do those activities I will give you an allowance so you can do what you want during your free time. Do you agree with everything?”

  “Yeah! I agree. Its fine Kent I totally understand.”

  “Good. We have just over an hour before we should go to bed. One more thing before I forget. At the end of supper each day the guests will be invited to the lounge, game room for a drink or something. All of us together are hosts and hostesses. We need to dress nice for supper. We will be setting up another dining table tonight, tomorrow when the guests have arrived please mingle with them. Lets not all sit at one table. I would like it if you all could be dressed nice and standing on the porch when they arrive, too, please.”

  Everyone nodded in agreement and than got up and started into there own separate activity. Kent was telling Vickie and Destiny that they only had to make up the beds in the guest houses that were under the trees and wipe off the cob webs and dust so it didn’t look like they were sitting there vacant all winter.

  Jake was drawing a map to the airport for Brian incase he couldn’t remember the way there. Brian was nodding as Jake was telling him the road names as he drew. Lisa was hanging over Brian’s shoulder staring at the piece of paper. When they were done Jake walked over to the bar and made himself a drink as Lisa walked over to Vickie and Brian to Destiny.

 

  Destiny saw Brian out the corner of her eye she excused her self from the conversation with Kent and Vickie and passed Lisa on her way to meet up with Brian. He looked like a man on a mission. He met her half way in the middle of the room. He leaned forward whispering in her ear.

  “So how long have you and Jake been secretly together?”

  “What are you talking about?” She whispered back. Glancing at the others briefly making sure they weren’t noticed. Everyone else was too engulfed in there own conversations.

  “I’ve seen the way you two look at each other. And that kiss next to the cattle? Not to mention the way you two hold hands continently when you think no one is looking. Come on Dess, let big brother in?” He whispered.

  “Nothings going on, he’s just making sure I don’t trip you know how big of a klutz I am, and as for the kiss, your way over exaggerating it, it was just a friendly peck.” She smiled.

  “What about the way you two look at each other?”

  “How do we look at each other?”

  “Any person who’s not blind can see the two of you wanting to tear each others clothes off every time you look at one another.”

  “That’s not true.” She spoke out load. Suddenly everyone was looking at them.

  “What’s not true?” Jake looked at them.

  “Nothing I was just teasing her.” Brian smiled.

  “You know brother and sister stuff.” Destiny smiled nervously.

  “There not brother and sister.” Vickie spoke up confused.

  “Close enough.” Lisa smiled than drew Vickie’s attention back to there original conversation.

  When every one resumed their previous activity and stopped looking at them, Brian leaned over and whispered in Destiny’s ear again.

  “I think you and Jake belong together, don’t worry sis your secret’s safe with me.” He turned towards the pool table. “Want to play?”

  Brian new, and he didn’t care; he thought her and Jake were good together. Some how those words made everything okay? Suddenly Destiny felt that with enough time Jake would come and realize Brian and her were meant for one another. Vickie and he fit together like a square peg in a round hole. Jake belonged to her. She was his destiny. She chuckled softly to her self. “Sure I’d love too.” She followed Brian over to the pool table and started to rack up all the balls as he grabbed a couple of cue sticks.

   Kent walked over to his brother who was leaning against the bar, watching Destiny and Brian playing a game of pool. She had control of the table and had knocked in most of her balls when she missed the side pocket. Brian walked up and lined up his shot.

  “Jake.” Kent poured himself a drink and turned leaning against the bar watching destiny and Brian as well.

  “Yeah.” Jake watched as Brian missed and Destiny took control of the table again.

  “I need you to take Dess out on the trails and finish placing the red flags, Thunder got a rock stuck in his shoe and we had to come back early. I’d take her but I need to stay here and make sure that table gets set up for tomorrow.” Kent leaned against the bar and watched Destiny knock another of her balls in a pocket.

  “Sure, when?”

  “As soon as she’s done playing this game, which looks like any minute.” He commented as she sunk the eight ball in the corner pocket.

  Destiny laid the stick on the table and ran up hugging Brian, yelling she had beaten him finely. She looked over and saw Jake watching at her with a big grin on his face. She ran over and embraced him in a big bear hug than turned in his arm and pointed towards Brian who was scrutinizing the table.

  “I beat him. Did you see Jake? I had him running scared.” She turned again to look at him.

  “Yeah I saw.” He said affectingly, gently brushing a stray hair from her nose. “Kent wanted to know if I could take you up to the trail and help place the remainder of the flags.”

  Destiny turned and saw Kent looking at her questionably. “Sure that would be great.”

  Destiny stepped back from Jake and smiled at his brother. She didn’t want him to know Jake was the one she was waiting for. But the look on his face said he already figured it out. She could see the realization come over him like a veil. He wasn’t competing for Destiny’s affections from some unknown guy; he was competing against his brother.

  “Actually Jake you probably want to spend some time with Vickie. I can take her and do the table tomorrow.”

  “Don’t worry about it, Vickie seems to be getting along with out me and I don’t want you rushing yourself tomorrow.” Jake stood up from the bar, his hand touching the curve of Destiny’s back.

  “Are you sure? I don’t mind postponing until tomorrow.”

  “Will you stop worrying?” He smiled at his brother than walked Destiny out the back sliding glass door, opened it and guided her out over to the barn.

  Destiny looked behind her as Jake ushered her out the door and saw a very defeated looking Kent watching her. She walked hand and hand with Jake to the barn. They geared up their horses, Destiny walking Luna beside Jake who had Dustin and walked them out of the barn. They mounted up and Jake handed her a flashlight.

  “Normally we wouldn’t be riding in the dark but we all will be to busy to show finish the trail tomorrow.” He started his mount at a walk with Destiny following. “If they want to ride they’ll come to the barn and let you know. Do not under any circumstances let them gear up there own horses, ask the men working in the barn to help you do it.”

  “What if they insist they know how?”

  “Just tell them there supposed to be on vacation which means they relax and you guys work. That usually cools their heels.”

  “Jake do you think your brother’s going to be alright?”

  “I’ve got to admit I’ve never seen him this nervous before. He’s kind of got me worried.”

  “That’s not what I meant!”

  Jake looked at her questionably.

  “I mean he seemed a little upset when you turned down his offer.”

  “He’s just worried I’m not going to be able to spend enough time with Vickie this summer because of all the extra responsibilities I’ve taken on.”

  Destiny didn’t think that was what was bothering Kent. It was more likely that Jake was spending too much time with Destiny. She knew Kent liked her and wanted her to himself. By shear will power and luck she had managed to convince him she was not waiting for Jake; that she just hadn’t found the right guy yet. Of course all that was ruined when she ran up to Jake, hugging him over her victory of Brian. Kent had looked like she had just stabbed him in the heart. God she was such an idiot.

  They placed the flags silently on the path until it had made a turn and she found herself back at the lake. It seemed all the trails started at the lake then went their separate directions only to return here an hour later or so later.

  “Destiny, are you in love with my brother?” She couldn’t believe her ears, had he really asked that question? She turned and faced him; he was looking at her a pained expression on his face.

  “No!” She made it short and simple.

  “Because if you are, I’ll understand and I won’t be mad.” Jake continued.

  “You’ll understand?” all of a sudden Destiny felt anger over come her, and she didn’t exactly know why. She was just really pissed off. “You have a fiancée that you refuse to leave no matter how much of a bitch she is, you constantly string me along, keeping me wanting you, but never letting me have you, and now you’re worried I might be in love with your brother and you tell me you would understand if I was.”

   “Dess I…..” Destiny spoke up again not letting him finish.

  “When you figure out what you want then you have a right to understand?” she clicked to Luna and they sped off to the barn.

  Jake squeezed Dustin’s barrel and he too sped off towards the barn. Damn it, he didn’t mean to upset her, he just wanted to know if he should leave her alone or if he could still go along with his plan. ‘You string me along keeping me wanting you, but never letting me have you’ her words echoed in his head. He jumped off Dustin and grabbed his reins leading him in the barn. He saw Destiny taking off Luna’s saddle, the bridle was already off she took the saddle into the tack room, he watched in amazement as Luna turned and headed for her stall not even attempting to bolt outside. Destiny walked out of the tack room with her grooming supplies and into the stall her soft sweet voice ringing in his ears as he heard her speaking to Luna in Latin.

  Jake turned and walked Dustin into his stall and started to take off his saddle. ‘Leaving me wanting you, but never getting you’ replayed in his head once again. She wanted him wanted him to make love to her, wanted him to be with her, she wanted him and all he had done was deny her with every attempt she had made to get close to him. That was it, he wasn’t going to deny her anymore he was going to show her how much he really cared through his actions and hope that was enough to keep her around until he could divorce Vickie. He picked up his saddle and headed out of the stall closing the door behind him. He walked over to the tack room and placed the saddle in its rightful place. Jake heard the stall door close; Destiny brought her stuff in and put it away. She paused as she was getting ready to leave waiting for Jake to exit the door way.

  Jake walked over to Destiny grabbing her wrists and gently pushed her against the barn wall holding her hands above her head. She struggled against him. He bent his head down towards her and captured her lips, aggressively kissing her with all the pent up passion he had kept inside himself for days. He released her lips moving down her neck stopping at the curve that turned into her shoulder.

  “Jake, we can’t. It’s wrong.”

  “Oh god Destiny, I want you so bad I’m going out of my mind. I won’t deny you anymore honey.” He said against her soft flesh. “I don’t care anymore, I just don’t care.”

  “We can’t do this.” She struggled against his grip. “You’re engaged.”

  Jake moved down to her breast softly nibbling her erect nipple through her shirt. He heard her gasp and than moan as his mouth curved around the tiny bud. If she still struggled after this he was going to let her go, than jump in the lake. He could feel her go limp, as her struggles to stop him gave way to senses of pleasure. Jake could feel his blood rush through his body as he became stiff with desire for her.

  Destiny’s breathe became staggered as the pleasure overwhelmed her senses. She didn’t want this to happen, she even tried to stop it but when Jake had touched her, she felt all her reserves melt away. Her sense of right and wrong became hazy as her desire rose like a volcano inside her. Her mind couldn’t think of anything other than where he was going to touch her next. She felt him put her arms around his neck than let go of her wrists and lifted her on his hips, she could feel the hardness throbbing in his jeans, she gasped as she felt a tinge of desire come from between her legs as she wrapped them around his waist locking her ankles behind him. She had never felt anything like it before. She hugged him tightly pressing her body against him. Jake carried her over to the stack of horse blankets in the corner of the tack room.

  Jake dropped to his knees laying Destiny down on her back. He reached down and unbuttoned her shirt, her erect nipples begging him for more of his kisses. Jake bent down and took one in his mouth and kneading the other with his hand, Destiny’s back arched up to him begging him for more as groans of pleasure escaped her throat.

  Jake moved his hand down her belly and under her pants to the little downy hair that stood guard over her womanhood. He took a sharp breath in as he pushed further and found her soft and wet ready to receive him. He stood up on his knees and unbuttoned her jeans pulling them down over her hips, freeing them of her legs. He grabbed her black lace underwear and did the same throwing them over his shoulder not caring were they landed. She sat up and got on her knees in front of him than leaned forward kissing his neck and than his chin until she found his lips and took them with hers. Every touch she gave him sent fire rushing to every part of his body.

  “Are you sure?” He asked between kisses.

  “I’ve never been so sure about anything in my life.” She looked at him briefly, than leaned forward capturing his lips once again.

  Destiny found his shirt buttons with her fingers and began to undo them as fast as possible. When she got them all undone she tore his shirt from his body than moved her hands to his jeans unfastening the button. Destiny’s fingers were shaking. Jake reached down and helped her unzip his jeans than rolled over on his back as she slid them off. He guided her on top of him and sat her down on his hips he felt the little barrier give as her full weight settled on him.

“Oh my god….Dessi” He looked at her face, her stormy gray eyes opened wide as the pain flowed through her body.

  Destiny felt a rush of pain as he slipped inside her. “Ow… ow it stings.” She cried as she tried to lift her self off of him.

  Jake sat up, lifting her gently and turning her placing her on her back. He didn’t allow him self to leave her. He knew if he could just stay inside her and give her body time to adjust to him, it wouldn’t hurt so badly. He felt her small hands trying to push him off of her.

“Baby, it’s alright.”

  “It hurts Jake.” She pushed against his chest yet again.

   “shhhh…. It will pass honey. Trust me.” He looked at her and kissed the tear that fell from her eye. Her chin quivered as she tried to hold back sobs.

  “Why didn’t you tell me?” He spoke softly.

  “I didn’t think it mattered. I didn’t know it would hurt.” She looked up at him.

  “Aw honey, you should have let me know.” He lifted his hand to her cheek.

  “I told you I never had a boyfriend or anything.”

 The memory of the first time she had ridden with him in Oregon came rushing back in his mind. He remembered how shocked he had been to find out Brian had to go through an interview with her parents. Than the memory of their kiss at the campsite rose in front of him, he had brushed off the part about the interview because he had believed she had lied to him. He remembered thinking that she had to be experienced because of the way she could get him to react to her. Maybe he was reacting to her that way because there was something deeper there than he thought? He would have to analyze that idea later. He pushed the memory out of his head and bent down to whisper in her ear.

  “It will only hurt a little and than it will go away.”

  She nodded as she wiped a tear from her cheek. She looked so fragile, so breakable. Jake’s belly clenched at the pain he was causing her. ‘He was such a stupid idiot!’ he yelled at himself.

  Jake felt her body go ridged and a small cry came from her lips when he moved inside her. He looked down at her, her eyes were shut and she was biting her bottom lip. He moved again slowly, giving her body time to adjust to him. Seeing her in pain was almost unbearable. Jake wanted to stop but it was too late, she had chosen him to be the one to take her for the first time and he wasn’t going to reject her now.

  Jake bent down and gently kissed her lips, softly begging them to open with his gentle assault. He could taste the salt of her tears, and he took the kiss deeper then before, his breaths grew ragged as she began to relax under him and kiss him back running her fingers through his hair.

  She broke the kiss and arched her back as the pain subsided into waves of ecstasy. “Oh god, Jake.” Destiny cried out his name as she felt strange sensations run through her body. Her eyes filled with bewilderment replacing the pain almost instantly.

  She felt her body quiver uncontrollably as the room began to spin around her. Her mind empted of everything but that moment, she felt Jake sink deeper inside her as she felt her body tense under him. She held him tight to her trying to make him part of her. She cried out his name. Than she relaxed as everything was drained from her. Her arms falling to her sides, she looked up at Jake meeting desire for desire.

  “That my darling is what will happen from now on, you won’t feel pain ever again.” He bent down and kissed her. Her arms wrapped around him as she moved her lips to his throat and than whispered in his ear.

  “That was incredible. And it doesn’t hurt anymore.”

  “My turn.” He bent his head down and captured her lips with his, nibbling them softly, kisses grew hungrier as he felt himself climbing to the top of the peek. Jake moved gently starting out slow and as his heart beat faster his rhythm became desperate and determined. He felt the rush of pleasure sweep over him. This time it was different, more intense then he had ever felt with anyone before. Just then the realization hit him like a semi truck going sixty, he was completely and totally head over heels in love with her. God help him, he loved this woman more than life it’s self. Jake new deep down he was doomed the moment she called out his name. His body began to quiver as he reached the peek of his climax. He felt Destiny’s breath on his neck as she held him against her. Her own body quivered again as she entered her second explosion.

  “Oh god.” He whispered in her ear. As they both gave in to their bodies.

  “I love you, Jake Ryan.” She whispered back as he shuddered above her one last time.

  He laid on her, spent. He wanted to be inside her a little while longer. Holding on to the dream he couldn’t have. She loved him and god help him he loved her too. The love he felt for her and the love he already felt for his unborn child was tearing him apart. He felt her stroking his hair than move her hand slowly down his back. Jake had to leave. He had to get away before she aroused him again.

  “I can’t believe you were still a virgin.” He lay on his back looking up at the ceiling of the tack room.

  “I was saving my self for the right guy.” She turned over on her side propping her self on one elbow laying her other arm on his chest lightly running her finger over his skin with her finger tips.

  Jake turned towards her, looking into her stormy eyes. This was all wrong. He had wanted her and had claimed her; god he still wanted her. But it had been okay when he had thought she had had sex before. Now that he new she had chosen him to be the one to deflower her, his guilt rose inside him like a savage monster. He wouldn’t have allowed himself to give in to his primal needs, There was no way he could be with her for a year and by then she could be getting engaged or worse married and now he knew there was no way he would be able to forget her either. She had trusted him so completely that she chose to share the most intimate part of herself with him. ‘Stop beating yourself up, Jake.’ The voice in his head told him. ‘She knew what she was getting her self into when she agreed to this, there where no secrets.’

  Jake stood up and started to get dressed he threw his jeans on than his shirt leaving it unbuttoned. He slipped his boots on than reached down grabbing her clothes and tossing them at her. He knew he was being irrational, but damn it she should have told him, clarified that she was a virgin not implied that she might be. She should have given him the choice. He watched as she reached down and grabbed her pant and shirt, holding them close to her body. Tears streamed down her face. He felt his heart thud one last time as it was torn out of his chest.

  “What did I do wrong?”

  “Get dressed Destiny.” He said angrily. He knew better then that, he would have taken no matter what. He was tiered of the dream he had wanted the real thing, hoping that when he realized the dream was better then real life it would help him stick with the plan. Now he knew, reality was so much better. He was mad at himself for what he had done to her. She had said no and he forced her to say yes by touching her in the way he knew she would not be able to resist. It was just as bad as if he had raped her.

  Destiny stood and threw on her clothes tears streaming down her face. Jake turned and looked at her. She looked so innocent and broken standing there in her bare feet, her shirt buttoned only half way. Her hair had come out of its braid and was framing her face wildly. He couldn’t bear to see her so sad. “Dessie it’s not anything you did, I just think we made a big mistake,” He walked up to her cradling her face in his hands. “I should have never let it go this far, and I wouldn’t have if I had known you where….” He trailed off.

  Destiny stepped back releasing her self from his grasped. She wiped the tears from her cheeks and looked at him anger growing inside her. How could he say this was a mistake? This was the most beautiful thing she had ever experienced. This wasn’t a mistake. This was their destiny. 

  “You might have made a mistake Jake, but I didn’t!” She reached down and slipped one boot on. “And you didn’t let it get out of hand. I had a choice in this too. So just let whatever guilt your feeling go. I know your still going to marry Vickie, only god knows why? And I’ve accepted that fact. I was with you because I wanted this. So take all the guilt off your shoulders. I’m not a child.”

  Destiny switched feet and put her other boot on than ran out of the barn towards the house. She heard Jake call out to her as she reached the stairs and ran inside. She passed Brian and Lisa who were on their way to bed. They tried to stop her but she ran in her room and closed her door, locking it.

  Lisa looked at Brian and they both went to Destiny’s door, Lisa knocking gently. They waited a few seconds and when they didn’t hear anything Lisa reached out and tried the doorknob. She looked at Brian. “It’s locked.”

  Brian knocked on the door harder than Lisa did. “Dessie open up.”

  “Leave me alone, I just want to be left alone.” A muffled cry came from the other side of the door.

  “Destiny, open this damn door.” Lisa commanded.

  “Just go away.”

  Brian put a hand on Lisa’s shoulder and shook his head; he walked her to her bedroom and kissed her softly than waited for her to close the door. Brian paused by Destiny’s door. What had gone so wrong? He saw Jake and her leave together and they looked fine? If Jake had done something to hurt her he was going to make him pay. He was just going to have to talk with him tomorrow. Brian walked to his room and shut the door.

 

 

 

  Jake had yelled after Destiny but before the words even escaped him he knew his efforts would be futile. She would never think of him in the same way again. He would be some kind of monster who tore out her heart and stomped on it in front of her. She had told him that she loved him, and he had responded with anger and malice. Well there went his plan he would be lucky if she ever spoke to him again. Perhaps that wasn’t so bad, he thought, at least one of us wouldn’t be wishing for the impossible. Jake walked out of the barn and towards the back porch, he saw someone sitting on the stairs.

  “So what happened to Destiny?” His brother asked. Anger filled his voice.

  “Nothing, what are you doing out here?”

  “I can’t believe you Jake; I know what happened between you two in the barn I was there. I can’t believe you would do something like that to her. She trusted you.”

  “Were you spaying on us, Kent?”

  “No, I went down to see if you guys had gotten back yet, I heard sounds coming from the tack room and decided to investigate I saw you laying with her, I was just about to leave when I heard her crying, I heard everything Jake. I can’t believe you would do that to her!”

  “This is none of your business.”

  “I’ve made that girl my business.” Kent stepped forward and swung at Jake hitting him on the side of his jaw. “I can’t believe you would just use that girl like another piece of ass.”

  Jake squared his shoulders and punched his brother in the gut; Kent fell to his knees grasping his stomach. He looked at his brother who looked down at him. Kent flew up tackling his brother by the waist knocking him on the ground, he punched him a few times when suddenly he was pulled off of him, and Jake stood and went for an attack suddenly an arm appeared around his waist, Jake came to abrupt halt. Kevin and Taylor had separated them.

  “Holy cow, that young lady’s got both of you spitting fire.” Kevin said

  “Let me go.” Kent yelled, trying to pull away from him.

  “Nope, not until you calm down, both of ya.” Taylor yelled.

  “I’m calm.” Kent yelled. He stopped his struggles.

  Taylor looked over at Kevin who was holding Jake.

  “I’m done.” Jake raised his hands than looked at Kent. “I didn’t use her as another piece of ass.”

  Both men let go of their captives and waited to grab them again if need be. Jake walked up the stairs crossing the porch to the glass door.

  “Stay away from her.” Kent yelled at him.

  “I don’t think that will be a problem.” He looked over his shoulder at his brother than turned and went inside.

  Jake didn’t think Destiny would ever want to see him again. He just wanted to go to bed and have the only thing he could allow himself to have with Destiny, to be with her in his dreams. He would never forget this night, the night she had given her self to him. The memory of her silky voice telling him she loved him would haunt his dreams forever.

 

 

  Kent was waiting in the morning for Jake to come down the stairs. He was going to get a straight answer from his brother if it killed him. If he had hurt Destiny, forced her to do anything she didn’t want to do than that was it, brother or no brother, he was going to do something about it. He couldn’t get the vision of her running from the barn, hysterically sobbing, out of his mind.

   Kent saw Jake and Brian descending the stairs they, looked like they were having a heated discussion. Brian must have beaten him to the punch. He thought. Kent waited until they where in front of him, than followed them trying to hear as much as the conversation as possible.

  “Look Jake, I don’t exactly know what happened between you and Destiny but when my little sister comes running up the stairs half dressed I’m left with only my imagination to fill in the blanks. My theory doesn’t paint you in a favorable light. If you know what I mean?” Brian was straining to stay calm.

  “Brian I understand your concern, but really it’s between Destiny and I.”

  Jake looked like crap. He felt like crap, like something the cat had dragged in and left on the front porch. He couldn’t get any sleep last night. If it wasn’t him chastising himself, it was the memory of Destiny’s face, he could see the moment her heart broke, he swore he could almost hear it as it thudded one last time in her chest before she ran from him. That image alone kept him from blissful sleep. He wished his brother did knock him out at least that way he could have escaped to oblivion.

  Brian grabbed Jake’s arms just above the elbows and pushed him into the corner, “If you don’t tell me what the hell happened last night, which would make Destiny come running in the house with tears flowing down her face. I’m going to beat it out of you.”

 

 

  Destiny woke up that morning forcing her self to face the fact that no matter what she did Jake was going to marry Vickie. That woman had some kind of hold over him, she didn’t know what it was but what ever it was it was strong enough to keep Jake hooked. She put some shorts on pulling them up over her hips wincing slightly. Destiny was sore all over. She threw on her purple tank top and headed out her door.

  Destiny reached the stairs and saw Brian push Jake against the wall, Kent was behind them looking very angrily at his brother. Those stupid assholes, what the hell where they doing? Destiny ran down the stairs and squeezed between Brian and Jake pushing hard on Brain’s chest with both hands. Destiny was actually shocked when she saw him stumble backwards.

  “What the hell do you think your doing?” Her voice wasn’t yelling but it wasn’t soft either, it was however, very angry.

  “Trying to find out what the hell he did to you last night.” Brian yelled.

  “Keep your voice down.” Destiny looked around no one but Kent was there. “He didn’t do anything to me last night.”

  “Than why were you crying?” Brian asked angrily.

  “Because I…….found out that he doesn’t feel the same for me like I feel for him, now if there’s another wound you would like to rip open why’ll I’m here, please feel free.” She looked at both men, Brian cringed visibly, Kent however just stared at his brother with murder in his eyes. Destiny swallowed hard and turned her attention back to Brian.

  Brian just stared at her, a defeated look across his face.

“Is that a no?” She paused briefly. “Good then please just leave him alone.”

  “Okay Dess!” Brian bent down and kissed her on the forehead. Than looked up at Jake. “Vickie over my sister, man you’re an idiot.”

   Jake nodded. He couldn’t argue with the man he knew he was an idiot; he was a down right fool.

  Brian stalked away to the dining room. Destiny looked at Kent and with out saying a word he walked off in the same direction as Brian.  Destiny watched them disappear through the entryway.

  “I’m sorry about that.” She turned and looked up at him. “Oh my god, what happened to your face?”

  Jake touched his bruised and swollen face. He knew he looked horrible, his eye was swollen shut and there was a gross black patch growing around it, his Jaw purple and yellow and hurt like hell. He was defiantly not a pretty sight.

  “My brother thought I was an idiot also.” Jake winced as he tried to smile at her.

  “I’m so sorry Jake. I didn’t mean for any of this to happen. I should have known better.” She reached up and touched his jaw lightly, he winced from the pain and she withdrew her hand.

  Jake looked at her and saw the concern and love for him in her eyes. Even after all he had done to her she still loved him? “It wasn’t your fault Dessie, it was mine, maybe you should have let him beat me to a bloody pulp. It might have made me feel better.”

  “Jake, what ever happened last night, we both new what we were doing. I’m sorry that I made you cheat on Vickie that was the last thing I wanted to do. I understand why it was a mistake for you and that’s okay. But I want you to know, I don’t regret any of it and I’m glad I lost my virginity to you, I can’t think of anyone else I would have rather been with.”

  “Destiny you didn’t make me…” Jake felt her fingers touch his lips.

  “Shhh.” She looked up at him. “It’s okay.”

  Jake saw a tear fall from her eye as she turned and walked away from him. Right before she turned the corner to enter the room she wiped her face and stood straight. She walked in the dinning room, beyond the arch way, giving everyone inside her best smile. Jake didn’t feel like eating any more, he turned and went upstairs back to his room. Brain was right he was an idiot. This beautiful unselfish girl was trying to take his guilt away from him. If he were less of a man he guessed he probably would have let her. He felt his heart rip in two in his chest. He could physically feel the pain of it.  He needed to go somewhere, sort out his thoughts, and get advice.

   He couldn’t believe she thought she had made him cheat on Vickie. Hell he was the one that trapped her against the wall. Why had she forgotten that part of last night? He forced her, not the other way around. True, she was the reason he lost control of himself but it wasn’t her fault. She just wanted to go back to the house after their ride. Hell, he was the one that was trying to seduce her.

  Jake lay on his bed thinking how he had ruined his life and how he had lost one of the most precious things he had ever loved. The person he would love for the rest of his life and possibly longer. He wished Destiny were carrying his child instead of Vickie. It suddenly hit Jake like a baseball bat, him and Destiny made love without protection, if she had gotten pregnant. ‘What have I done?’ There was no way he would be able to choose between his children. Than deep down he knew he wouldn’t have to, Destiny was no evil creature, he knew she would cherish a child of his like a gift, regardless of whether he was with her. He laid his head on his pillow and cried silently until he fell asleep.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Destiny walked in to the dining room and smiled at every one. She chose a seat next to Kent and sat down. Kent reached over and took her hand, gently squeezing it before letting it go. Destiny smiled up at him than placed her napkin on her lap. She looked around the table and saw everyone staring at her.

  “What time are you and Brian supposed to pick up the guests?” She asked Lisa.

  “They land at 4:00pm but we’ll have to leave around two so we can arrive on time.”

  “How many people are coming out to the ranch?” She turned towards Kent.

  “We have four groups’ eight people in all, six women and two men.”

  “Cool, so I guess after brunch we should all get to work.” Destiny smiled as Nana came in carrying the food platters.

  As everyone dished up, Destiny wondered where Jake had gone to, he still hadn’t come to the table and she was beginning to worry about him. If he didn’t show up by the time they were done eating she was going to take him a plate and make sure he was doing okay. Hell who was she kidding she just wanted to see him, make sure he was okay. She knew she was only using the food as an excuse to be with him for how ever many precious moments she could steal, before she was shipped back home for the winter.

  As everyone finished their meal and ushered out of the dining room to there assigned tasks, Destiny went into the Kitchen to get Jake a plate of food and take it to him where ever he may be. She walked up to nana and smiled at the old woman who was loading dishes in the dishwasher.

  “I was thinking I could take Jake some lunch. I’m sure he’s hungry; he probably just had some last minute work that needed to be done. ”

  “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” The old women said curtly.

  “I don’t think he meant to miss lunch.” Destiny was taken back by her tone.

  “Look young lady, I don’t know what you’ve done to my boys but you had them fighting each other like they were two rabid dogs last night. I had to call Kevin and Taylor just to keep them off one another. I think it would be best if you just left them alone.” She turned towards Destiny anger flashing in her eyes.

  “It wasn’t…..” She looked at the old women she was right of course. Because of her Jake and Kent hated each other, because of her this family was being ripped apart. She needed to get out of there, she needed to run and never look back. She wanted to go home. “I didn’t mean for any of this to happen.”

  Destiny turned and ran out of the room. She didn’t care where she went; she didn’t care how far she had to go. She just wanted the pain to stop in her chest, to go away so she couldn’t feel anything. She just wanted to be numb all over. She wanted to die.

 

 

 

 

  Jake woke to his stomach grumbling he hadn’t had anything to eat since 7:00 last night. He sat up and winced as all the pain shot through his body, all the memories of the last sixteen hours flooded his brain. He pushed them aside and got off the bed he was going to have to beg nana to feed him it was about an hour and a half past lunch. He went to his door and down the stairs to the kitchen where he knew his grandmother would be.

  Jake stopped in his tracks as he heard Destiny ask for a plate of food to take up to him. What the hell is she doing? She should hate me. He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts he didn’t even hear nana speak until it was too late. Suddenly Destiny was saying something about ‘not meaning for this to happen’ and then she bolted out the door not even noticing that he was standing there. Jake walked in the kitchen and looked at his grandmother who was staring out the door after Destiny.

  “What did you say to her?” He commanded.

  “I told her maybe it would be best if she just left you and Kent alone.” She turned back to her dishes.

  “Why?”

  Nana swung around and looked at him she was shaking with fury. “I saw the way you guys looked at each other, I saw the way you two were ready to kill each other over some little vixen. She had you wrapped around her little finger than dragged Kent into it as well, pitting you against each other so she could watch you fight over her. I thought she was different Jake, but she is like every other pretty little city girl.”

  “You had no right to say that to her. Nothing that happened last night was her fault.” Jake was so angry he could see red. “You want to know what really happened last night, Nana?”

  She didn’t answer which was fine with Jake it was a rhetorical question anyway.

  “Your perfect little grandson, ME, forced himself on her last night. And Kent called me on it.” He saw her jaw drop and the shock and disgust consumed her face.

  “But she made you boys hate each other.” She whispered.

  “No nana.” Jake yelled. “She made us nothing. Instead of hating me or sending her brother and my brother after me, she defended me taking all the blame on her self. She has done nothing wrong except love me.”

  Just then Taylor came flying through the doors into the Kitchen and looked from nana to Jake and stood there momentarily before he caught his breath and finally spoke.

  “Destiny she,” He paused.

  “Destiny what?” Jake asked angrily.

  “She took Thunder and rode off. I tried to find Kent but I don’t know were he is.”

  Jake turned and glared at the old woman before following Taylor out the door and towards the barn. They passed Kent. He was just returning from the barn and was madder than a bull.

  “Were in the hell is Thunder?” he turned on Taylor as he ran by him. Swinging him around and bringing him to a sudden stop.

  Taylor watched Jake round the corner of the barn. Than turned and looked at Kent.

  “Where in the hell is my horse?” Kent said angrily.

  “Destiny took him.”

  Kent turned to see Jake and his horse Dustin run from the barn, “Crap!” He exclaimed as he took off running towards the barn.

 

 

 

  Jake saw Destiny at a full run and he took off after her, pushing his quarter horse to go faster. He caught up to Thunder and reached over grabbing the reins and pulling back on the bit. “Woe boy” He called out as he slowed the two horses at the same time. Before Thunder came to a complete stop, Destiny hopped off his back, and took off running on foot. Jake leaped off Dustin and headed towards her. His legs were longer than hers and he caught up with her in no time tackling her to the ground.

  “Destiny stop!” He begged as he captured her wrists in his hands.

  “Leave me alone Jake!” She struggled against him as he straddled her hips and forced her hands to the ground.

  “Baby please, stop.” He looked down at her and saw the gleam of fresh tears streaming down her beautiful face. His gut clenched and knotted up inside him.

  “Let me go Jake.” She cried. “I don’t want to be here anymore, I want to go away.”

  “I’m so sorry baby, god what have I done to you.” Jake rested his forehead on her chest and felt her sobs as she cried underneath him. He released her wrists and cradled her head between his hands.

  “Get off of her!” Jake heard a voice yell at him moments before he felt his body give away to an unseen force and he fell to his side. He looked up to find his brother poised to hit him when his brother pitched back and fell on his ass. Jake looked up to find Destiny standing over them.

  “Stop it.” She yelled. “Both of you stop it. Do you understand?”

  She was backing away from them now. “Just go away and leave me alone, both of you. Go away and forget I ever existed.”

  Destiny turned and ran from them towards a massive oak that was standing tall in the middle of the prairie. “Damn Kent,” Jake swore as he struggled to his feet. “You let her get away. Now she’s going to do something stupid.”

  Jake took off running hoping to catch her before she made it too that tree. He was only feet behind her when she scampered up the massive trunk like some forest elf. He needed to grab her foot to keep her from going any further; he was almost able to reach her foot when she pulled it up out of his reach. She turned and sat on the first massive branch she came too and looked down at him. He could see the Tears in her eyes as she struggled to stop crying.

  “Leave… me alone…. Jake.” She stuttered out between sobs. “Just go back… to Vickie and be happy… and leave me alone.”

  “Honey, please come down.” Jake looked up at her.

  Destiny wiped her eyes with the back of her hands and looked off into the distance trying to ignore him.

  “Destiny please, listen to Jake.” Kent spoke up to her as he reached Jake struggling for breathe.

  “Go away both of you.” She looked down at them. “I’m poison, don’t you get it. I’m no good. I bring misery and pain.”

  “Dessie nana didn’t mean what she said. She was just angry.”

  “What did nana say to Destiny?” Kent looked at his brother.

  Jake shook his head, “I’ll tell ya later.”

  “She was right you know. Because of me you and Kent fought, Because of me you cheated on Vickie. All I do is screw things up. Trust me Jake, get on that horse and run as fare as you can get before I screw something else up.”

  “If you don’t come down here right now I’m coming up, and Dess I can barely see out of this eye so I don’t think it’s a good idea for me to come up there.”

  “Go away!” She yelled as loud as she could.

  Jake walked up to the tree and began to climb it when his brother stopped him.

  “Don’t Jake.” He looked at his brother than back up the tree. “She’s climbing further.”

  “Damn it!” Jake let go of the tree and walked away from the trunk so he could see Destiny more clearly. She was climbing further up the tree.

  “Destiny stop climbing, I’m not going to come up!” Jake yelled up at her.

  They both gasped as her foot slipped and she grabbed the branch to stop her fall. She got a foothold again and got back up on the branch above her.

  “Destiny, please come down before you kill your self.”

  “Both of you go away.”

  “If you want to stay away from me after you come down from that tree than fine. But I will not leave while you’re still up there.”

  “I want both of you to stay away from me.”

  “Alright we both agree to stay away from you now come down from there.” Jake looked at his brother ready to defend him self but his brother was just looking up at Destiny fear and concern for her written across his face.

  Destiny turned and started down trying to find a foot hold but when she couldn’t she scampered up to the branch again sitting her self back down on it. “I don’t think I can get down by my self.”

  “So I’ll come up.” Jake started towards the tree.

  “No,” she yelled. “send Kent.” She hadn’t wanted Jake to fall, and with that eye there was no why he could climb that tree. If something had happened to him while he was trying to save her she would never forgive herself.

  Jake felt a tinge of jealousy rise in him as his brother scampered up the tree to help her down. He gently coached her making sure her foot landed in the right spot and she had a firm grip before moving down to the next branch. He finally reached the bottom with her. Jake looked at her briefly before turning and walking towards his horses, Kent and Destiny following behind him, he turned towards Destiny.

  “Kent can ride Thunder and tow you and Molly back to the barn.” He held Molly’s lead out to her.

  “I don’t think so.” Destiny walked over to Thunder and mounted taking up the reins.

  “Get off that horse.” Jake yelled at her.

   “If the Gods exists they’ll make the pain go away, than Vickie and your grandmother can do the jig at my funeral.” She saw utter rage flash in his eye than turned Thunder towards the barn and kicked him hard. He reared then took off into a full run. Jake hurried after her, Dustin running his heart out to keep up with Thunder. Jake didn’t know if Kent was following and he really didn’t care he had to get to Destiny before she killed her self.

  Jake saw Destiny stop Thunder in front of the barn than throw her reins to Taylor as she jumped from the saddle and started to walk towards the house. Jake stopped Dustin and jumped down off of him running towards Destiny. He caught up with her and spun her around to face him. Boy was she pissed. He had never seen her so angry she looked like she was ready to kill.

  “What the hell were you thinking? You could have gotten your self killed!’ He yelled at her.

  “Back off Jake.”

  “That horse could have killed you.”

  “Obviously I wasn’t that lucky.” She pointed out.

  “Stop talking like that, My Destiny wouldn’t say such things.”

  “I’m not your Destiny.” She just looked at him. He couldn’t see anything in her eyes anymore. No anger, no pain, no anything. It was like looking into the eyes of a corpse.

God what has he done. The light of her soul just blinked out, and he saw the moment that it had happened, the moment she died inside.

  “Oh god baby, don’t do this to me.” He stepped towards her placing his hands on her shoulders, begging her, pleading with her. “Don’t go away, don’t let that spark that I love so much, die inside you.”

  “Go away Jake.” She said with out emotion. “I’m no longer yours to worry about.”

  “Pleeease……….” He begged her.

  “Goodbye Jake.”

  Destiny turned and walked away from the pain and sorrow, from him. Her heart was no longer breaking; there was no more pain, just blissful nothingness as she walked away. Jake could marry Vickie and she could go on trying to live her miserable life with out him. Kent could stop putting his heart on the line waiting for her. She walked inside the house and went to the little cabinet by the door. Kent had told her that the keys were kept there for the little houses last night. Keys one and two were gone; Vickie must have started cleaning her apartments already. Destiny grabbed three and four and headed out the door she didn’t even look up at the two men as they passed each other on the porch stairs.

  Destiny walked over to her apartments and unlocked the door. She went inside and looked around at the spacious room. To her right was a little kitchen complete with an oven and refrigerator it even had a little dishwasher. She looked towards the front of her a little living room with a couch and a little entertainment center with a TV. and VCR. She walked over to the couch and lifted a cushion. Just what she thought a hide a bed. She looked up at the ceiling and noticed a railing running the length of the room. She looked over by the door and saw the staircase, she walked over and climbed it, the end opened to a beautiful loft that held two single beds that over looked the living room.

  Destiny started cleaning up stairs. She moved down to the living room and than to the kitchen. She had found everything she had needed in the tiny bathroom that was under the stairs. She did the same to the other little apartment. When she was done she walked back to the house. It was Five o’clock and Brian and Lisa should be headed back from the airport with their passengers.

  Destiny walked up to her room and grabbed her towel and the dress Brian and Lisa had bought her. She took off Jakes ring and stuck it in the corner of her dresser drawer with her undergarments, than she walked down stairs to take a shower.

  Vickie walked in Destiny’s room when she was sure she was gone. She had walked up to Destiny’s door and saw her take Jakes ring off and stick it in her dresser. Now was her chance to get the ring. She had run back into her room waiting to hear Destiny close her door. She waited a few moments than came out of her room sneaking into Destiny’s.

   Vickie walked to the dresser and pulled open the drawer she stuck her hand inside under Destiny’s underwear and felt for the ring. Her fingers brushed against something, she pulled it up in her palm clasping it with her hand. Suddenly a sound came from the hallway. She shut the drawer and walked quickly to the door. Jake stopped and looked at her.

  “What are you doing in there?”

  “I was looking for Destiny, like you were.” She frowned at him.

  “Actually I was looking for you.”

  “Well let’s not stand around here then.” She walked out side the door, forcing Jake to step back as she closed the door behind her.

  Vickie led Jake to her room and invited him in. She placed her self on the bed leaning back on her hands the one with the ring sliding under her pillow and depositing the piece of jewelry there. She looked at her fiancée curiously. “What do you want? You haven’t even spoken to me since we’ve been here. Oh sorry, I take that back, other than yelling at me you haven’t spoken to me since we got here.”

  “Look Vic,” he walked over and sat next to her. She sat up crossing her legs and resting her arms on her knee.

  “I’m listening.”

  “I’ve done some things lately that I’m not proud of and I think it would be best if I went away for awhile to get my head on straight.”

  “So you’re just going to leave me here, by my self?” She jumped up and looked at him her hands on her hips.

  “You’ll have Brian, Lisa, and Destiny.”

  “Whoopee, a couple and their pet.” She rolled her eyes. “Don’t stay gone to long Jake, your brother looks pretty tasty.”

  “His out of your league Vickie, He actually has standards,” Jake stood from the bed.

  “Don’t tell me the little ones snagged him too.” She let out a laugh. “She sure does get around doesn’t she?”

  “You shouldn’t talk about things you can’t possibly understand,” He opened the door stepping out into the hallway. “It makes you look stupid.”

  Jake shut the door just in time to here something hard hit the other side. He walked away smiling at himself. He stopped as he noticed Destiny walking inside her bedroom. She looked up at him. He didn’t miss the blackness in her eyes. There was no longer light there she had sunk into darkness. The storm that had brewed there had gone silent. He looked down at his feet as he walked past her he couldn’t stand to see the emptiness inside her. He had completely destroyed her and for that he would never forgive himself.

  Jake walked to his brother’s bedroom and knocked on the door. Kent came to the door wearing a white short-sleeved shirt and tie. He looked at his brother, than held the door wide, inviting him in. Jake held up his hand and shook his head.

  “I just came by to tell you that I’m flying to California tonight.”

  “Why?”

  “I have to get away, sort things out in my head.”

  “You know Jake that girl loves you more than anything in this world.” Kent walked up to his brother and put a hand on his shoulder. “She would rather die then hurt you.”

  “I think she already has.” He turned to walk away than looked over his shoulder at his brother, he turned again facing him, “I’m such an asshole Kent. I don’t deserve her.”

  “What do you mean? She already has?”

  “She’s empty inside Kent, there’s no life there anymore.” Jake looked up at his brother. “Don’t let her finish the job Kent. Keep her safe.”

  “You stupid fool you really have sentenced her to death.” His anger rose, his cheeks flush.

  “Just watch her Kent. I don’t think she would actually do anything.” At least I hope she wouldn’t. He said to himself. “Promise me.”

  “Of course I will. I care about her too.” His voice softened as he realized the inner turmoil that his brother was going through. He had never seen the sparkle go out of his brother’s eyes before; it almost looked like he too had died inside. “Are you okay?”

  “Fine, just take care of Destiny, she is my heart.” He turned and walked away from his brother before he could respond.

 

 

  Destiny sat on her bed fighting back tears; Jake had just walked by her with out saying a word. She now understood that he was never going to speak to her again. He had decided it would be easier for them to cut all ties. She supposed it would help, but still having to eat with him, and see him every day was going to be brutal on the heartstrings. She thought she had died inside but when he walked by her with out saying a word all the emotions, all pain, had came rushing back inside her like a tsunami. She heard the van and the truck coming down the driveway. She threw her on her sandals than ran out of her room and down the stairs and out the front door. With any luck she could throw her self into her work and hope that the numbness would return.

  Everyone was there except Jake. Destiny stood next to Kent and smiled wide as Brian opened the truck door. A blond curly haired woman stepped out of the old baby blue pick up. She was shorter than Destiny for sure but she was stunning, wearing a three-piece suit. The man that followed her was equally beautiful, Black hair and tanned skin with a slight mustache framing his top lip. They walked up to the group on the stairs smiling.

  “Hi I’m Angela Johnson and this is my husband Robert.”

  Kent introduced the group starting with Destiny and ending with Nana. He held his arm out opening the door and inviting them to enter he told them to make them selves at home that they would be in shortly. The door closed behind them as Lisa opened the door of the van.

  Destiny watched as a beautiful older woman stepped out first, she had blond hair that came to her shoulders and was wavy around the face. She had a pair of blue jeans and a white t-shirt accented with a jean jacket. Next out was a young woman with sandy blond hair down her back. She only stood a little under five feet but she was still beautiful, it was obvious however that her mother was the older lady even though they almost resembled each other.

  The two woman paused and looked behind them as another young woman excited the van She wore plain jeans just as the other women and had long dark brown hair flowing down her back. A beautiful pair of glasses framed her eyes. All three turned and walked up to the group on the stairs. They held out there hands greeting each person.

  “Hi, I’m Edith, but everyone calls me Edie.” She took Destiny’s hand. After introducing her self to Kent she stood by the door waiting for her companions.

  “Hi, I’m Heather, her daughter.” She pointed at the woman by the door.

  “Hi, I’m Amy. I’m her daughter in law.” She shook Destiny’s hand. After greeting Kent, all three women entered the house.

  Destiny turned towards the van again, a young woman with dusty blond hair down to her shoulders walked over to them she was wearing a silk skirt and shirt that flapped beautifully in the breeze. Another young woman stepped out beside her, her blond hair was curly and grew a little past her shoulders; she wore a pair of black jeans and a white t-shirt. They were both breath taking. Behind them stepped a handsome tall man with short hair and tan skin. One by one they introduced them selves.

  “Hi, I’m Andi and this is my friend Diana.” They shook Destiny’s hand than introduced themselves to Kent before disappearing in the door.

  “I’m Chris.” He smiled at her than went over to Kent and hugged him. “I haven’t seen you in forever.”

  “Hay Chris,” He patted his friend on the shoulder and directed him inside. “What have you been up too?”

  The group followed Kent and his friend in the house. Brian and Lisa took the truck over to the apartments unloading the luggage, placing the bags in their own apartments. Kent had made sure Brian gave the guests there keys and stickers that corresponded to the numbers on their keys than had each person stick the number on there luggage so it could be placed in there apartment before they had left the little airport. He made sure to give Brian the master key for this task.

  Brian and Lisa joined the group of people in the lounge when they were done. Brian handing the master key back to Kent. They sat around visiting and discussing the activities that were being offered during there stay at the ranch.

   A short while later Nana had called everyone to supper. They had followed Kent into the dining room where massive amounts of food sat along the length of the tables, everyone sat in a chair and began dishing up. Nana was going around the table poring wine, when she had reached Destiny she placed a hand on her shoulder and bent down to whisper in her ear. “May I see you in the kitchen, please?”

  “Of course,” Destiny smiled at the old woman and got up to follow her. She was probably sending her home. Getting her away from her grandson’s as fast as possible. Destiny would have her stuff packed before night fall.

  Nana turned and embraced Destiny, hugging her to her bosom “I’m so sorry child.” She cried. “If I had know what Jake had done to you I would have beat him myself.”

  “Nana…” Destiny stepped away from her confused. “What are you talking about?”

  “Jake told me everything, honey. How he forced himself on you. You must have been so fright…..”

  “Jake didn’t force himself on me. What we did was mutual. Jake did nothing wrong.”

  “He told me…. he told me that is why his brother and him got in that fight.” Now the old woman looked confused.

“Nana where’s Jake?”

  “He’s leaving for California. Didn’t he tell you?”

  Destiny shook her head.

  “He should be on his way out the door right now.”

  Destiny ran from the room without excusing her self. She had to stop Jake. That’s why Jake hadn’t looked at her; he was blaming himself for all that had gone wrong. He was doing what she had asked him to do. He was going away. Destiny didn’t want him to leave, she wanted him to stay here. She didn’t care if he never spoke to her again, but she had to see him, she didn’t want it to be goodbye.

   Destiny reached outside just in time to see Jake throw his bag in the back of the truck. She ran down the stairs trying not to loose her balance by holding her arms out to her sides, running the palm of one of her hands down the rail. Destiny saw Jake turn and look at her, she ran up to him, he wrapped his arms around her and held her tight to his body as she placed her head on his chest.

  “What are you doing out here?” He asked.

  “Don’t go Jake, please. I’m sorry for what I said. I don’t want you to leave, I don’t want you to stay away from me, I need you here.” She looked up at him tears streaming down her face.

  He saw the flicker of light ignite in her soul. “Destiny baby, I have to go. I have to figure some stuff out.” He stood away from her, his hands on her shoulders. “Don’t let that light go out in your eyes Destiny, you have a beautiful soul and you should let no one extinguish it, my love.”

  “Don’t talk like that Jake.” She looked up at him, “Don’t talk like your saying goodbye.”

  He looked at her his eyes filled with so much regret, and sadness. He looked like he was the one dieing inside. Destiny couldn’t bare it. She could physically feel his pain inside her.

  “Jake don’t go, stay here. I don’t care if you still want to be with Vickie. I need you here; I can’t live with out you.” She saw him close his eyes to those words and sigh deeply. He opened his eyes and looked at her, pleading with her.

  “Please, promise me you won’t hurt your self.” He begged.

  “Than stay.” She said in one last desperate attempt to keep him there.

  “Honey, Promise me you wont do anything stupid. Please. I couldn’t live with my self if I thought……….” She saw him swallow hard as his plea caught in his throat.

  “I promise, Jake.” She was ashamed of herself for causing him so much agony.

  “You have to keep that promise, Baby.”

  “I will.” She said as fresh tears weld up in her eyes.

  He hugged her to his chest pulling her close to him, he sighed deeply hoping that she would stay true to her promise. He held her out in front of him. “I’m just going away to get my head on straight and think about things.”

  “I don’t care; I want you here with me. You can think… about things here …with me.” Sobs rose from inside her as the tears flowed freely from her eyes.

   Jake leaned forward and kissed her velvet lips one last time tasting the salt of her tears, mixing them with the taste of his own. Than he let her go, pushing her gently away from him turning and climbing in the truck, shutting the door.

  “Jake, please. Don’t go. I need you.” Destiny begged as she ran up to the window placing her hands on the cool glass, her tears flowing freely now. He turned and looked up at her, his hand coming up and placing his palm on one of hers the only thing separating their hands was the glass. “I love you, Jake.”

  “I love you, Destiny.” He said as a single tear fell from his eye, than he looked away towards the driver and the truck pulled away.

  “Jake!” She yelled after him. Destiny fell to her knees, her hands clasped together in her lap, crying hysterically as she watched the truck that carried the man she loved disappear into the blackness of night. “Jake, please come back.”

 She felt Hands on her arms as they gently guiding her to her feet she turned and saw nana looking at her a tear falling from her eye. “Destiny, Honey,” She pulled her into her arms letting her cry on her shoulder, than gently guided her back to the house. “Come let’s get you up to your room.”

  Nana guided Destiny inside and up to her room sitting her on her bed and just held her as Destiny rolled up in a ball and cried in the old woman’s lap. Nana finally understood that the love between Jake and Destiny was real and for some reason her grandson was denying himself that love. And she had a feeling it had something to do with that red haired whore.

 

 

 

  Lisa walked up to Destiny’s door and knocked softly. She had brought her breakfast at the request of nana. Nana had told Lisa, Brian, and Kent what had happened last night after the guests had left the house and went to their apartments. Kent wasn’t too happy for some unknown reason, and Brain wasn’t very pleased either. He had always treated Destiny like the baby sister he had lost when he was ten. Lisa always thought he was too overprotective.

  Lisa reached out and opened Destiny’s door. She peaked in and saw her friend lying on her bed facing her window. Lisa went in putting the tray on Destiny’s dresser and walked over to the bed and sat beside her.

  “Dessie, I brought some breakfast for you.” She spoke softly.

  “I’m not hungry, thanks.” Her voice was raw from all the crying she had done.

  “You have to eat something.”

    Silence was all that followed her voice. Lisa looked around the room and noticed one of the dresser drawers lying on the floor, clothes were strung everywhere around the room she couldn’t believe she had missed it when she first walked in. Destiny’s room looked like a tornado had blown through it.

  “What happened to your room?”

  “I can’t find the ring Jake gave me.” She turned on her back and looked at Lisa. Fresh tears began to fall.

  “Are you sure you’ve looked everywhere.” Lisa stood up and started to clean up the room.

  “I put it in my underwear drawer yesterday before I took a shower. This morning when I went to go put it back on it wasn’t there.” Destiny sat up and looked at Lisa.

  Lisa looked at her friend her eyes were swollen and red. Lisa didn’t think that Destiny had fallen this deep. All she could do was pray that it would become easier for her friend to forget Jake as time went on. Suddenly Lisa remembered seeing Jake and Vickie leaving Destiny’s room yesterday. She had just assumed they had been visiting Destiny. Lisa had someone to visit and it wasn’t going to be pleasant, Vickie could count on it. She placed Destiny’s bra that she had folded back in the drawer and walked over to the bed.

  “Kent wanted me to let you know that he needs you tomorrow, because the guests minus the two men want to go on a trail ride.”

  Destiny nodded.

  “Dess, I can tell him to take a flying leap if you’re not up to it.”

  “No. I need something to do to get my mind off Jake.”

  “Okay sweetie. Well get some rest I’ll check on you later.” Lisa bent down and hugged her friend than left the room.

  Lisa walked down the hall and knocked on Vickie’s door. The door swung open to frame a disheveled Vickie. She was draped in a sheet and her hair was all over the place. Lisa pushed the door open and walked in. She glimpsed one of the cowhands in Vickie’s bed before Vickie pushed her back out in the hallway.

  “What do you want?” She asked furiously.

  “I want to know where Destiny’s ring is.”

  “I don’t know what that girl did with her ring.” Her voice was agitated.

  “Look I saw you and Jake leave Destiny’s room, and I know she wasn’t in there at the time. So where is her ring?”

  “Lisa, I don’t know where her ring is and frankly I don’t care. I’m a little busy right now.” She slammed the door in Lisa face.

 Lisa yelled through door. “Ya, I can really see you’re broken up about Jake leaving.” She paused than added as an after thought. “Whore!”

  Lisa turned and saw Nana staring at her from her bedroom door. Lisa looked at the old woman, bewilderment flashed across her face. Lisa felt bad that she had to hear her bad language but she was pissed.

  “Sorry nana.” She turned and went in her room without waiting for a reply.

  “Quit alright dear.” Nana said to no one in particular, Lisa was gone before the first word was out of her mouth.

  Nana didn’t care anyway she new something was up with that Vickie women the first time she saw her. She was defiantly not Jake’s type. Nana’s theory was that that young lady had something on Jake and she had been trying to find out what it was since she’d been here and she still had not come up with any good ideas. She turned and went back in her room shutting the door behind her.

 

 

 

 

  The next morning Destiny woke up and went down stairs for Breakfast she greeted all the guests and apologized for her absence. Everyone told her not to be silly they had plenty to do while they waited for her to get over the flu. They asked her if she was feeling better. Destiny had nodded keeping up the charade.

  When everyone finished their breakfast, they split up in two groups Destiny and Lisa took the girls on a trail ride. Brian and Kent took the boys fishing on a boat. All of the girls wanted to cinch their own horses; she looked at them and shook her head.

  “You guys are supposed to be on vacation not working, so sit back and relax. Besides you don’t want to see me get in trouble for not earning my pay?” She smiled at the women.

  To her amazement it actually worked they all looked at her, shacking their heads and went over to the paddock to pet the other horses that had their heads hanging over the fence. ‘Starving for a little attention are we?’ She asked the horses silently to her self.

Destiny had finished saddling the final horse and watched as everyone mounted with ease. ‘Maybe they did know about horses after all.’ She thought.

  Destiny and Lisa mounted their own horses and led the group on the trail that took them around the lake and up into the wilderness a little ways. They all stopped their horses as they came to a clearing with a stream and let their horses drink.

  “Look over there.” Heather whispered to the others.

  The group turned and saw three doe and two fawns walk from the woods warily. All of them barely took a breath afraid they would scare them off. The deer crossed the meadow and disappeared in the woods on the other side.

  “That was so cool.” Amy commented.

  “Told you we would have fun.” Edie smiled at her daughter in law.

  “Damn I should have brought my camera.” Andi cursed herself.

  “I told you to bring it, but you wanted to keep it in our room because you didn’t want to work today.” Diana shook her head at her friend.

  “I know.”

  “What kind of work do you do?” Destiny asked the young women as she started her horse at a walk, everyone following suit.

  “I’m a free lance photographer. I’m out her to get some new material for my expedition in New York.”

  “How many shows have you done?” Lisa asked.

  “If the curator likes what he sees this will be my second. I’m trying to recapture the west. Show people it still exists in the states out here.”

  “That’s really cool.” Heather said.

  “So what do you do?” Destiny asked Heather.

  “I train children how to ride horses.”

  “That sound interesting, is it any fun?”

  “Only when you get children who want to listen and don’t think they already know everything.”

  The group laughed together.

  “How about you, Edie?” Lisa asked.

  “Well I drive trucks sometimes.”

  “You mean the big ones.” Angela asked.

  “Yep, that’d be them.”

  “Wicked.” Diana commented.

  “So how about you?” Edie asked Angela.

  “I usually work for the state doing odd things here and there nothing really exciting though.”

  “That sounds cool. Besides I bet the benefits are excellent.” Andi added.

  “Ya they are.”

  “What do you do?” Andi asked Amy.

  “I’m a publisher with a tiny firm out of L.A.”

  “I should introduce you to my friend back home she loves to write stories. Has almost four done? But she’s too afraid to send them in.”

  “Remind me to give you my number before we leave, we’re looking for fresh blood to send are stocks rising.”

  “Not a problem.” Andi said.

  The girls had come out of the woods and back on to the prairie. Destiny was taking them over to see the cattle and the few buffalo that Kent kept as pets. Jake had told her that his brother had always wanted buffalo but his dad said no they were meant to be wild. After Kent took control of the place, he had bought some, telling his dad it was for the tourists. His dad told him, ‘In a pig’s eye’ than laughed at his son’s ingenuity. Destiny heard Lisa speaking to one of the guests.

  “Diana. You haven’t told us what you do yet?”

  “I’m a correctional officer.”

  “I think that’s got to be the most exciting job here.” Amy said.

  “Ya and the most dangerous.” Heather added.

  “Not really, I don’t work with murderers or anything.”

  “It’s still cool.” Amy added.

  Destiny stopped the group and showed them the buffalo. Andi cursed her self for not bringing her camera again and everyone chuckled as she slapped her own hand as punishment for forgetting the camera. Destiny could tell she was a comedian too. They walked their horses back to the barn and this time Destiny and Lisa let them unsaddled there own mounts when they had asked to.

  The group walked up to the house when they had finished talking about how fun it had been and they’d have to go again, Andi assuring everyone that if she forgot her camera the next time she would cut off her own hand. Diana said she would personally help her remember. She for one didn’t what to see no bloody stump.

  The girls we’re soon joined by the boys who had assured everyone that they had caught a fifty pounder or better but put it back because it was too beautiful to kill. The girls nodded their heads at one another in disbelief of their story.

  Shortly after Nana had announced lunch, everyone had filed into the dining room. They had hamburgers and fries and cold glasses of coke sitting out for each of them. Destiny wondered how nana had done it all when the door swung open and she saw Vickie leaning on the counter with her arms crossed. ‘Was she wearing an apron?’ Destiny asked her self. Than shook her head in response to her own question.

  After lunch everyone put their bathing suits on and went out side to the lake to go swimming. Edie however refused to go in the water, even after Destiny and Lisa told her they could swim and Lisa had taken lessons for CPR.

  “If god meant for us to be in the water he would have gave us fins.” Was all she replied?

  Destiny watched her lay her towel down than sit on it stretching her legs out in the sun. Destiny shrugged her shoulders and went in the water. She had a swimming contest with everyone and when Heather won the thing she announced she wanted to play water volleyball. Everyone agreed and Lisa ran to the house to grab a ball and a rope to use as the net across the water. Destiny couldn’t remember when she had had so much fun.

  Later that evening after supper everyone retired to the lounge, were Destiny and Heather beat the pants off everybody at pool. Now they were playing and the person her broke usually indeed up running the table. Diana was showing Chris how to play poker. Destiny thought he already knew how but was playing stupid for the benefit of Diana.

  Kent and Andi were over at the bar He was laughing at her funny jokes and looking at some pictures she had taken in New York. They were both genuinely having a good time. Destiny thought. She was so glad to see Kent so happy. Angela and Scott were having a competition at the video game. Destiny thought it was ‘Frogger’ but wasn’t sure more than half the decal on the side of the thing was worn off.

  Amy and Edie were dancing the two-step to some country song while Brain and Lisa tried to follow along. They kept getting tangled in each other’s limbs. Destiny tried not to laugh. Vickie was sitting by her self, trying to get Chris’s attention to no avail. ‘Finely a man who was immune to her charms.’ Destiny thought.

   The evening wound down and the guests disappeared one by one, first Diana and Chris, than Heather, Amy, and Edie. Scott and Angela had left shortly after their video game competition, way before everyone else. Vickie had disappeared. Destiny guessed she was over at that guy’s place, the one who was in her room yesterday morning, Lisa had told her about him during dinner last night.

  Destiny walked Kent and Andi out the front door and on to the porch. They looked up at the stars shining brightly in the Montana sky. Andi lifted her camera and took a picture of the heavens than turned it on Kent and snapped a shot. He smiled for her and did some silly pose as she snapped another one.

  “You two are silly.” Destiny said.

  “Silly!” Andi looked at Kent. “Do we still use the word silly?”

  “Guess so.” Kent smiled.

  “Well I’m going to go to bed, I’m beat.” Destiny said.

  “Ya I suppose I should go also.” She smiled at Destiny than turned towards Kent and winked.

  “I’ll walk you over there.” He turned to Destiny and smiled.

  “Goodnight you two.”

  Destiny turned and went in the house and walked up the stairs when she reached the landing she had turned to see Brian disappear into Lisa’s room. She smiled to her self and went into her own bedroom. She had never felt more alone than she did right know. She missed Jake.

  Destiny walked over to her bed and saw a red plaid flannel shirt lying on top of the covers. It had a little white piece of paper pinned to the collar. Destiny took off the note and sat on her bed she opened it and read.

 

 

 

 

                                 Destiny,

 

                                       I know this won’t replace the fact that Jake is gone.

                               But maybe it can ease some of the pain. This is his shirt

                               and I know he would want you to have it. He will come

                               back for you. I know my Jake, and he would not leave

                               you behind.

 

                                                                                Nana

 

 

 

   Destiny held the shirt to her face and breathed in. It smelled like Jake. She took off her dress and pulled the shirt over her head. She pulled the covers off her bed down and crawled inside. Destiny flipped off her lamp and turned to look out her window. A shooting star flew across the sky.

  “If you’re looking at that same star Jake, hear my words. Come back to me, I miss you. I need you, and I love you more than you will ever know.”

  The tears began to fall from Destiny’s eyes as she held the collar of Jake’s shirt up in front of her mouth and nose inhaling deeply, than drifted into sleep, where she was once again reunited with her love under the night sky.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

California

 

Chapter

 

7.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Jake had been in California for two weeks. He hadn’t wanted to be here that long but he had to wait for his dad to get back. Jake had landed at the airport and drove to his dads place to find him gone. Jake went inside the house and called some of his dads friends and found out he was on a business trip. By the second week Jake was beginning to wonder if there really was a business trip or maybe his dad had a girlfriend. Wouldn’t that be weird?

  Jake sat on the couch and flipped threw the T.V. guide. Not finding anything interesting he put the book back on the coffee table. God he wished his dad would hurry up and get home. He needed to talk to him. Jake was finely going to tell him everything. Tell him about Vickie and the baby and him and Destiny.

  Destiny the one he loved the one he saw drop to her knees and cry for him to come back as he drove away. That vision had haunted him in his dreams. She had looked do vulnerable and frightened, and lost. He hadn’t seen Vickie do that. She didn’t even ask him to stay just threatened to sleep with his brother if he stayed away to long, Kent and Destiny together for two weeks, his brother trying to mend her broken heart. He felt the familiar tug of jealousy when he thought of her finding comfort in his brother’s arms while he was gone? Or worse maybe she had forgotten about her promise and had done something foolish thinking he wasn’t going to come back. Jake tried to push that thought out of his head but it wouldn’t go away. The truth was that he missed her. He longed for her with every fiber of his being clear down to his soul. Fine, he reasoned with himself, if his dad wasn’t here by tomorrow Jake would leave and go back to the ranch.

  Suddenly the door rattled as he heard footsteps on the patio. Jake stood up from the couch and walked over to the entryway where he met his dad coming through the door. He didn’t miss the inquisitive look across his dads face as he looked up at him. Jake watched his dad turn and close the door than set his suitcase down. He walked up and hugged his son. Than led him to the living room and sat him back on the couch while he took the chair across from him.

  “You want to tell me what happened?” Jake Sr. pointed to his sons face.

  Jake reached up and touched his face. The swelling and bruising had mostly gone away there was just a trace of a bruise around his eye but for the most part it was gone. ‘How in the hell did his dad see the damn thing in this dim light?’ Jake wondered.

  “Kent and I got in a fight a couple weeks ago.” Jake waited for the lecture.

  “About what?”

  “Over Destiny.”

  “Why?”

  “Because he thought I was being a jerk the way I had treated her.”

  “And were you?”

  “Yes….” Jake sighed. I deserved everything I got from Kent.

  “Do you love her?”

  “More than anything.”

   Jake Sr. nodded, “How long have you been here?” He sat back in the chair.

  “About two weeks.” Jake sat back in the couch.

  His dad nodded.

  “Dad I need help, I’m in a serious fix and I don’t know what to do. I feel like I’m being torn in two.” Jake looked down at his hands that were folded in his lap.

  “Torn in two?” his dad was confused. Maybe he loved this Vickie girl too. He thought.

  “Between Destiny and something else.”

  ‘Well it wasn’t Vickie’ he assumed ‘but what could this something be?’

  “You talk and I’ll pour us a drink.” Jake Sr. stood up and walked over to a little bar and began to pour him self and his son a scotch.

  “Well, you know about me and Vickie?” Jake looked up at his dad who nodded than handed him his drink and sat back in the chair.

  “Dad there’s more to the story.” Jake paused and drank all of his scotch. He made a funny face sat his glass down on the end table then looked back up at his dad. “She says she’s pregnant and she says it’s mine.”

  He watched his dad take a drink and set his down on the end table next to his son’s empty glass. “Nana and I knew there had to be a reason you were marrying that girl. She’s just not your type. And frankly son she just down right mean.”

  “Well I had resigned to live with the fact that I would marry her and try and be the best husband and dad I could be. Than Destiny showed up and now I’m so confused I don’t know what to do. I love Destiny dad, I love her with everything I have.”

  “Look son, I know you want to do the right thing by marry that girl because she’s pregnant but there’s other ways to help her take care of the baby with out marrying her, if it’s even yours to begin with. Staying with her for a child is only going to bring misery and divorce in the end Jake. It’s not fair to her, the baby, you or Destiny.”

  “Dad you don’t understand.” Jake laid his head back and looked at the ceiling. Than turned back towards his dad. “She said if I don’t marry her before the three month cut of date she will have an abortion. She will kill the baby.”

  “What’s the three month cut off date?”

  “It’s illegal to get an abortion after three months unless it’s a medical emergency.”

  “I think I’m understanding.”

  “I was going to go ahead and marry her, wait until the baby was born then divorce her and marry Destiny. But I’m just hurting Destiny with this plan. Dad I don’t want to be with Vickie at all, I love Destiny, besides there’s a possibility Destiny could be pregnant too.” Jake held his breath waiting for his dad to come out of the chair and yell at him.

  “Why do you say that? No wait, I can only deal with one thing at a time.” Jake‘s dad downed the rest of his drink. “Look son, first of all I doubt she’s pregnant, and if she is pregnant I doubt it’s yours.”

  “What are you talking about?”

  “You really don’t think I’ve been gone for two weeks on a business trip do you?”

  “Than, where were you?”

  “I’ve been at the ranch Jake. No one knew I was there but Nana. She had called me right after you and Kent got into it and told me everything. I was originally showing up there to kick your ass when she called me back and told me you forced your self on that little girl, by your own admission.”

  “So what’s stopping you dad, I deserve it.”

  “Because when I showed up Nana pulled me off to the side and told me that Destiny said it was mutual and there was no force involved.”

Jake closed his eyes and leaned back in his chair. She had lied to protect him once again.

“Was she wrong?” His dad asked noticing the look on his son’s face.

“I started it dad. She was telling me no and I wasn’t listening. I knew that if I could just get past her defenses she would cave and give in, which she did.” He looked at his father and saw his jaw clinch at his omission of guilt.

“Well, I’m not sure what to think bout that son.” He downed the rest of his drink and stood to make himself another.

“The sexual tension between us had been building for so long, I knew she wanted me and I wanted her, we just had the Vickie thing hanging over us. She didn’t want me to cheat on Vickie and at that point I could really care less if I did. I told my self that if she told me no one more time after I kissed her than I would stop and go jump in the lake if I had too.”

“And did she?”

“No, she melted like butter in my hands and started returning the kisses with such passion I felt drunk by them I no longer had use of my brain.”

“Well it sounds to me like it was mutual.” His dad sighed.

  “So what took you so long to get back here?”

  “I wanted to stay and watch both girls in secret, Nana was sure that Vickie was holding something over your head but she didn’t know what. As for Destiny I didn’t know what to think.” He turned to his son. “I thought maybe she just had a really bad crush on you or something.”

  “So what did you two find out?”

  Jake was afraid to ask that question, afraid to here the answer. What if everything Destiny felt for him was infatuation? What if she realized she only had a crush on Jake and that she had lost interest after being with out him for so long?

  “Vickie likes to sleep around as much as she likes to shop.”

  “What about Destiny dad?” Jake didn’t really care about Vickie he wanted to know about Destiny. He wanted to know if she and Kent had gotten together, if she filled the void in her heart with Kent’s loving words and gentle touch.

  “Your grandmother told me about what happened the night you left…”

  Jake’s mind flashed back to that night, Destiny running after him, begging him to stay with her. The way he had to force himself to walk away from her and get in the truck. And the sudden impulse to tell her he loved her before the truck drove away. He had wanted to cry the whole trip here only shear will power kept his tears from falling.

  “That little one loves you son, she’s a lot more mature than twenty, I’m guessing.”

  “Try eighteen.”

  “Oh Jake!”

  “Why do you think she loves me?”

  “Well for one she tore her room apart looking for some ring you gave her. She cried over that damn thing for a whole day not even her friend Lisa could console her.”

  “What happened to her ring?”

  “Nana said Lisa thought Vickie had taken it.”

  “Did nana ask Lisa?’

  “No! Nana was headed upstairs to talk to me. I was hiding in her room. Anyway she had seen Lisa storm out of Destiny’s room and over to Vickie’s pounding on the door asking were Destiny’s ring was.”

  “Did they find it?”

  “No! But Nana and I snuck in one of your shirts to Destiny the next night. Every time Nana would go in there to put it in the wash Destiny would refuse saying it was the only thing she had left of you and she wasn’t going to loose it too.” Jake Sr. shook his head in disbelief a smile on his lips.

  “So she’s not with Kent?”

  “No! He’s been hanging around with one of the guests. I think he’s in love, she’s a photographer.”

  “Really!” Jake smiled. “Good I’m happy for him.”

  “So is there anything else you need to tell me?”

  “Well, dad….”Jake paused and looked up at his father steeling himself for the yelling that was sure to come. “There’s a possibility that Destiny could be pregnant as well.”

  “Now why do you think this lovely mature eighteen year old is pregnant?”

  “I didn’t use protection that night, and dad she was a virgin.”

  Jake Sr. winced. Than stood and walked back over to the little bar pouring him self another drink before returning to the chair. “Haven’t I taught you a thing?”

  “Of course dad, I just lost my head. I had wanted her for so long and finely the opportunity presented it’s self and I took it, she didn’t even have a chance to tell me she was a virgin.”

  “So what are we going to do about your two little predicaments?”

  “I don’t know dad, I love Destiny, but Vickie’s carrying my child.”

  “Proposed child.” His dad reminded him. “Destiny might be carrying your child also, Jake. What are you going to do about that?”

  “I know dad, but that’s the hard part if Vickie is carrying my baby the only way to save it is to marry her, if Destiny is also carrying my baby I know she would cherish it with all her heart. I wouldn’t have to worry about it.”

  “And you think that would be fare to Destiny and your child?”

  “No, it would kill me inside, but what else am I supposed to do?”

  “Well if I were you, I’d confront Vickie about the baby as soon as you get back. I don’t think she is pregnant anyway, but if she is Jake, I hate to say it but maybe everyone especially that child would be better off if she did abort it. She doesn’t seem very motherly to me. Personally I think she is after your money. And if she is pregnant there’s a very high chance it’s not even yours. Do you know she’s been sleeping around with almost every cowhand she can get her grubby hands on? She’s been picking out wedding dresses too you know. She’s not a very pleasant person son.”

  “Really,” Jake shook his head, “How am I going to confront Vickie and make her tell me the truth, dad?”

  “I don’t know. But we’ll figure out something.” Jake Sr. put down his drink and looked at his son. “What ever we do you can not allow Destiny to slip out of your life.”

  “I don’t plan too.”

  The two men sat in silence trying to think of a way to confront Vickie. They had to prove whether she was really pregnant and if she was how to prove whether or not it was Jakes child. All Jake really cared about was getting back to Destiny. He had already made up his mind. If Vickie was pregnant and it was his child he would do everything he could to help her, everything but marry her. He was sure if he threw enough money in front of her she wouldn’t kill the unborn child. Jake was going to be with Destiny. His dad was right, if he walked out on her it wouldn’t be fair for or him or her and if she was pregnant it defiantly wouldn’t be fair to the baby. He wanted to marry Destiny and make her the happiest woman alive. He never wanted to see the pain that he had left her with again in her eyes. He was going to march up to her the first time he saw her drop to one knee and ask her to make him the happiest man in the world by marrying him. First, he had to stop by the jewelry store and by her the perfect ring.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jake’s Destiny

 

Chapter

8.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Destiny went up stairs after lunch and lay on her bed. It had been almost three weeks since Jake had left and she was starting to wonder if he was ever going to return. Vickie seemed not to be worried too much; she had been prancing around for the last two weeks showing off wedding dresses to everyone. Destiny hated that woman more than she believed was possible to hate anyone. The worst part was she didn’t even believe in hate.

  Lisa and Brain where getting the guests packed up and was taking them to town to go home. It was wonderful while they were here; they provided an escape for her. While she was entertaining them she didn’t have a lot of time to think about Jake. Now all but Andi was leaving and she didn’t have to worry about entertaining her.

  Kent had asked Andi to stay for a while longer and she had agreed. They had been getting closer and closer these past few weeks. Destiny was happy for Kent; it seemed he had finely found his one true love. She wasn’t worried about him anymore, it seemed his and jakes relationship was going to recover from her.

   Destiny was brought out of her musing by a loud knock on her door. Damn, who could that be? She asked herself. She slid off d and lazily walked across the room to her door. When she opened it, Vickie was standing in the doorframe smiling at her with a giant trench coat on. “What do you want Vickie, I’m tiered and I don’t feel well?”

  “I want to show you something.” With out even waiting for an answer she turned and walked to her room.

  Destiny rolled her eyes and followed Vickie down the hall and to her room. ‘What could be the harm in amusing her?’ She thought. She entered the room and saw Vickie standing there in her wedding dress. Destiny smiled at her.

  “It looks beautiful.”

  “I know. Do you think Jake will like it?”

  “Sure!” Destiny turned to go.

  “Don’t go. I need your help. Can you zip me up?” She turned her back towards Destiny and looked over her shoulder at her.

  “Vickie I don’t think Jakes coming back.” Destiny turned and looked at her. “He’s been gone for nearly three weeks now. I think he’s run away from both of us.”

  “Of course he’s coming back silly; he has to marry me by August.” She turned to face Destiny. She wanted to see the full reaction of what she was going to say next. It would destroy the pathetic child. But paybacks were a bitch.

  “Why does he have to marry you by August?” Destiny folded her arms across her chest and gave Vickie an appeasing smile.

  “Because, I’m carrying his child.” Vickie said. “Didn’t he tell you?”

  Destiny was sure she heard wrong. Vickie carrying his child, it couldn't be true. Jake loved her; he wanted to be with her, he told her that he loved her before he had left. Suddenly everything made since, Jake having obligations he couldn’t tell her about. The way he had forgiven Vickie no matter what she did. Why didn’t he tell her? Tears filled her eyes as she looked at Vickie.

  “Why didn’t he tell me?”

  “Maybe he was just wanting a quick lay, you know to ‘sow his wild oats’ before the wedding. He knew that if he told you, you would have refused him.” Vickie got the reaction she was looking for. She could see the utter devastation in Destiny’s eyes. This was better than what she had hoped for.

  “You’re an evil woman Vickie.” Destiny turned to leave and glanced at Vickie’s dresser. Laying on the surface by a mirror was her ring. She reached out and grabbed it than turned towards Vickie. “This is my ring.”

  “It’s mine; you should have never gotten that ring. It was meant for me not you.” Vickie held out her hand. “How do you think he had it up on the mountain? He had no idea it was your birthday before he met you. He gave you my ring in hopes you would have sex with him. That’s all you were Destiny a conquest before he married me. And I want it back.”

  “He gave it to me. You went in my room and stole it,”

  “Give it back Destiny.” Vickie started towards her.

  “No!” Destiny turned and ran out of the room.

   Vickie ran after her grabbing at Destiny. She almost had her just a few more inches. Destiny turned to go down the stairs. “No you don’t, you little bitch.” She yelled as she lunged at her, her fingers touching Destiny’s back but not grabbing anything. Vickie watched in horror as Destiny pitched forward loosing her balance and tumbled down the stairs headfirst.

  Destiny let out a cry as her body lunged forward. She tried to grab at the railing but her fingers grazed the wood, she was unable to grab it. She felt her collar bone crack as it hit one of the stairs, pain shot up her neck. She screamed in pain as her legs pitched forward over her head. Pain shot up her leg as it hit the railing. She finely came to a stop at the bottom of the stairs fire shooting through her body, her breathes staggered as she tried to breath.

  “Destiny!” Vickie yelled as she ran as quickly as she could down the stairs.

  Vickie reached the broken form at the bottom. Destiny’s leg lay at an odd angle, her collarbone sticking out of a gapping hole above her shoulder. Blood was flowing from her mouth.

  “Destiny, don’t die.” Vickie looked around the hallway. 

  Kent came running from the living room Andi following behind him. He skidded to a stop and looked down at the little broken body. He heard Andi gasp than run back into the living room. He heard her holler for Nana, than talk to someone about the accident. Kent assumed it was a 911 operator on the phone.

  “Dessi, Baby it’s going to be okay.” Kent brushed her hair away from her eyes.

  “Kent?” She coughed and blood came from her mouth. “It hurts, Kent.”

  “I know baby we’re getting you help.”

  “Tell Jake I love him,” She coughed again. “always.” She closed her eyes and went completely limp.

  “Dessi? Baby, open your eyes honey.” Kent said frantically. “Come on baby, don’t do this. Open your eyes, please.”

  Kent turned to Vickie. “What did you do?”

  “I didn’t, she just fell.” Vickie scooted back and sat on the bottom step. Fear overcoming her completely. “I didn’t mean for her to die. I just wanted her to know that Jake loves me. That he wants to be with me.”

  “My brother doesn’t love you. He has never loved you.” Kent said angrily. “He loves Destiny and always will.”

   Vickie buried her head in her hands and cried. “I didn’t mean for her to fall. I just wanted my ring back. I didn’t push her; I was trying to grab her.” She mumbled.

  “Don’t move her.” Andi came around the corner holding the phone. Nana followed behind her.

  “What happened?” Nana asked. She knelt down next to Destiny.

  “Vickie did this, it’s her fault.” He said angrily as he stared at Vickie. He had promised to look after Destiny and now here she was lying on the floor broken and bruised. ‘Take care of her, she is my heart.’ His brother’s words echoed in his head. He had failed his brother, Jake was going to loose the only thing he had ever loved.

  “Is she breathing?” Andi asked.

  Kent put his hand in front of her nose. Than looked up at Andi. “Yes!”

  She repeated the answer in the phone. Than added something about bleeding.

  “We need to put something over her wound to stop the bleeding.” Andi pointed to Destiny’s shoulder. Her collar bone stuck out of her skin the edge jagged. She was bleeding heavily from the wound.

  Kent took off his shirt and wadded it up than placed it on her shoulder. Andi nodded at the receiver and said ‘Okay!’ than she hung up the phone. She turned towards Kent and got on her knees next to Destiny.

  “There sending life flight, it’s about thirty minutes out. She said not to move her under any circumstances and if she wakes up not to let her move. If the bleeding gets worse or she stops breathing call her back.”

  “What do you mean she did this?” Nana asked Kent.

  “She pushed her or something.” Kent looked at his grandmother. “I don’t know exactly she just keeps mumbling.”

  Kent, Nana and Andi sat next to Destiny. Kent and Andi holding her hands and waited for the sounds of helicopter blades, Nana had gotten up and tried to call Jake in California but there was no answer. Instead she sat down and began to write something down on a piece of paper.

  “What are you doing Nana?” Kent looked at the old woman.

  “I’m writing a letter for Lisa and Brian when they get back from the airport.”

  They heard the familiar thump, thumps of helicopter blades as they landed in front of the house. Nana opened the door and ran out side she soon returned with two paramedics. They pushed Kent and Andi out of the way than started asking questions as they put a neck brace around Destiny’s neck than gently straightened her out placing her on a long board. They picked her up and walked briskly to the helicopter loading her inside. One of the paramedic turned towards Kent who had followed them out side along with everyone else.

  “We’re taking her to County general, do you know were that is?”

  Kent nodded. “Yes!”

  The paramedic jumped inside the helicopter as it took off into the sky; they watched it disappeared over the mountains. Kent ran over to where the other Van was parked. Nana, Andi, and Vickie followed. The engine roared to life as Nana opened the door and turned to Vickie, as she was about to climb in after Andi.

  “I think it would be best if you stayed here and let Brian and Lisa know what hospital we went to.” She did not wait for an answer, just grabbed the side door closing it, than getting in the passenger side of the van and closing her own door.

  Vickie watched as the van sped down the driveway. She went in the house running up the stairs to her bedroom. Vickie threw her self on the bed and began to sob. She didn’t want Destiny hurt she just wanted her out of the way.

 

 

  Brain and Lisa pulled up to the airport to see Jake and his dad standing by the small office. After they had helped their guests with the luggage from the back of the pick up truck, they hugged everyone goodbye as they loaded up in their plane. They walked over to Jake and his dad.

  “I know someone who’s going to be so happy to see you.” Brian walked up to his friend and hugged him.

  “How’s Destiny doing?” Jake smiled at Brian as they released each other.

  “Fine! Although Lisa and I keep waiting for her to kill Vickie; every time she brings a wedding dress home to try on for everyone Dessi gets this murderous look in her eye.”

  “Well Destiny doesn’t have to worry about that anymore. Vickie and I aren’t getting married.”

  “Finely the boy makes sense.” Brian smiled.

  “Sorry about everything Jake.” Lisa looked up at him with pleading eyes. “Destiny’s like a little sister to me. I didn’t want to see her hurt that’s all.”

  “I understand, you where just protecting her.” He walked up to her and gave her a hug. “Come on let’s get out of here. I can’t wait to see her.”

  Lisa and Brian walked towards the truck. Jake and his dad went over to the van that Lisa had relinquished the keys for and they followed each other to the ranch. Jake was so excited to see Destiny that his dad kept having to yell at him to slow down.

  About two hours later they pulled in to the driveway and noticed that the other van was gone. No one worried about it, assuming Kent had taken his new girlfriend to dinner in town or something. Jake walked straight up stairs as soon as he went through the front door of the house. Lisa, Brian, and Jake Sr. went in the house searching for Nana.

  “Nana?” Lisa called then walked into the kitchen, no one was there but dinner had been stopped in the middle of cooking.

  “That’s weird.” Lisa turned and walked out of the kitchen she saw Brian and Jake’s dad standing in the entryway looking at a piece of paper. She walked over and stood behind their shoulders and started reading it silently to herself.

 

      Brian, Lisa,

 

              There was an accident. Destiny’s hurt real bad. Call Jake at his dads 1-407-875- 3874. Make sure Vickie is out of the house and on her way home before Jake gets there she pushed her down the stairs or something. Don’t know for sure, she was blubbering. If she is there when Jake returns I’m afraid he’ll do something stupid.

 

  The boys stopped reading and were staring at each other. Lisa grabbed the letter and finished reading.

 

……………There’s money in my dresser drawer use it to get her home. I’m pretty sure life flight will take her to county general but I’m not sure I’ll leave the information with Vickie.

                                                         Love nana

 

  Lisa looked to the men. “She had to be air lifted by helicopter. How serious is she?” then she suddenly realized Jake was upstairs looking for Destiny and he would probably run into Vickie.

  “Oh my god, Jakes up stairs!” She heard Vickie scream.

  Jakes dad and Brain bounded up the stairs taking two at a time. “Hurry….” She yelled. “He’ll kill her.”

 

 

  Jake looked in Destiny’s room and didn’t see her. He was about to go back down stairs when he heard commotion coming from next door, Vickie’s room. ‘Well now’s as good time as any.’ Jake told himself. He turned and walked to the door, it was standing open and Vickie was packing her stuff in her suitcase. He walked in.

  “What are you doing?”

  “Jake!” Vickie turned and saw him standing in the door jam.

  “What are you doing?” He repeated. Jake could swear he could see shock and something else in her eyes. Was it Fear?

  “Look Jake I’ve been doing a lot of thinking and I don’t think we should get married.” She turned back towards the suitcase and finished throwing the last bit of stuff in it.

  “Fine, but what about the baby?”

  Vickie breathed in deeply before exhaling, than latched her suitcase and turned to face him. She was holding the suitcase in front of her like a shield. She looked up at him as fresh tears rolled down her face.

  “Jake there’s no baby, there never was.”

  “What?” He looked at her confused. “How could you lie to me like that?”

  “I didn’t want to loose you like all the others, the only way I could keep you was to tell you I was pregnant.”

  “I can’t believe this. I almost lost everything because I believed you.” Anger was welding up inside of him. “I almost gave up Destiny.”

  “Jake there’s more.”

  He was afraid to open his mouth; he just stared at her waiting for what ever she had to say.

  Vickie held out her hand, he saw Destiny’s ring in the center he reached out and she placed it in his palm, she watched as he stuck it on his pinky. Vickie backed up a few steps than took a deep breath. “Jake I didn’t mean to, but when Destiny came in here and found her ring that I took from her room, she got really mad and so did I. I was running after her and she fell down the stairs.” She looked up at Jake and saw him coming towards her.

  “What did you do?” He had lost all his reserve and was beyond control. He walked up to Vickie and grabbed her by the arms making her drop her suitcase. He heard her cry out but he couldn’t stop from shaking her. “What did you do to her?”

  “Jake you’re hurting me!” She cried.

  “You selfish, self centered bitch, I hate you”

  “Jake I’m sorry; I never meant it to happen, it was an accident.” He could see the fear in her eyes. He was sure she could see the hatred in his eyes.

  “I’ll kill you if you hurt her. I swear it Vickie. I’ll kill you right were you stand.”

  “I’m sorry, Jake. Please, you’re hurting me!” She cried.

  Jake felt him self being ripped away from her. His dad and Brian were pulling him away and pushing him up against the wall. His dad was suddenly in front of him yelling at him. He turned and looked at him a tear falling from his eye.

  “Jake stop.” Jake Sr. yelled as he stepped in front of his son. Lisa was standing by Vickie trying to calm her. It had taken both Brian and him to pull Jake away from her. They had found the note and were heading up here to get Jake when they heard Vickie cry out.

  “She did something to Destiny, Dad.” His voice quivered as he talked. “Destiny’s hurt that’s why the vans gone. Something’s wrong with Destiny.”

  “I know son,” Jake Sr.’ pulled his son in his arms and held him tight.

  “What hospital did they take her to?” Brian asked Vickie.

  “County General.” Vickie sobbed.

  Brain walked over to Jake and put his hand on his shoulder. “Come on Jake. Destiny needs you right now.”

  “Jake, lets go son.” His father said.

  Jake took a breath and got himself under control. Destiny needed him right now and he wasn’t going to let Vickie steal anymore time from him. “I want you out of my house before we get back.” He told Vickie through clutched teeth. He saw her nod at him. Brain walked out the door followed by Jake and his dad and Lisa.

  “I’m sorry Jake.” Vickie called after them.

 

 

  After about an hour and a half of driving, Jake Sr. pulled into the parking lot at County General Hospital. He had let the kids out at the emergency entrance and than parked the car. He walked in to see Brian, Jake, and Lisa in the elevator. They held it for him as he ran and got in. Lisa turned to him as Brian and Jake stared at the numbers that changed after each floor.

  “She’s in intensive care; she got out of surgery about an hour ago. They wouldn’t tell us anymore then that.”

  The elevator came to a stop on the fifth floor. The door opened and they rushed out and ran to the nurse’s desk around the corner. Jake stood there tapping his fingers waiting for one of the nurses to come back from where ever they were. Jake heard a voice coming from his right he turned and saw Kent walking down the hall.

  “Jake were did you come from?” He embraced his brother when he had reached him. Than turned to his dad. “Dad?”

  Jake Sr. nodded acknowledgement to his son.

  “Where’s Destiny?” Jake asked.

  “They’re not letting anyone in to see her right now. We’re kind of all hanging out in the waiting room. I’m sorry Jake, I failed. I didn’t keep my eye on her good enough.”

  Jake reached out and pulled his brother in his arms. “It wasn’t your fault. I know you did the best you could.”

  Kent hugged his brother back, than pulled away from him. “Come on you can wait with us, the doctor should be coming any moment.”

  Kent led the group in the waiting room were Nana and Andi sat holding each other’s hands. When Nana saw Jake walk in the room she stood up and walked over to him embracing him in a hug. Telling him everything was going to be okay. She led him to a seat by hers, and he was introduced to Andi.

  Lisa had picked up the phone and called Destiny’s parents. After telling them there had been an accident she handed the receiver to Jake’s dad who told them what he new thus far than set up arrangements to fly them to Montana. He said goodbye to his sons, Destiny’s friends, Kent’s girlfriend and his mother than left to go get Destiny’s parents.

  The doctor had come in shortly afterward telling them that he had just gotten off the phone with Destiny’s parents and they had given permission for him to talk to them. He grabbed a chair and pulled it in front of all of them. Than sat down and began to explain to them what was going on?

  “When Destiny had fallen, she broke her collar bone which we were able to fix. She also had a compound fracture of her left femur. We had to put pins in the bone to stabilize the fracture. She’ll be in traction for at least two to three months. We had to put a shunt in her head to drain the excess fluid that was building up between the skull and the brain; unfortunately we had to shave her head. One of her ribs broke and it had punctured a lung as well. We had no choice but to do surgery to repair the damage. She has a breathing tube that goes down her throat to help her breath. We’ll probably leave it in for twenty four hours and then take it out and see how she’s doing.” The Dr. looked over at the young man that was sitting next to the old woman, he had his face buried in his hands and shaking his head rapidity. “There’s one more thing.”

  He saw the young man lift his head towards him his eyes were swollen and red. “While we were doing our examination we noticed her Uterus was slightly enlarged. We wanted to make sure it was nothing caused by the accident and did a pelvic exam. We are pretty sure she is pregnant.”

  “Oh my god!” He heard the pretty brunette say.

  “How’s the baby?” The young man sitting next to the old woman asked.

  “Well we don’t now if the fetus will abort. Sometimes during traumas like these the baby will abort due to the stresses of the trauma or the surgery. I’m going to be honest with you the chances of the pregnancy continuing to be healthy is very slim. But there is a small percentage of cases were the fetus has survived and has gone on to continue growing healthy and being born fine. Unfortunately the longer Destiny stays in her coma the less chance the baby will survive. Right now we have to get the mother to wake up than we’ll worry more about the baby.”

  “Why hasn’t she woken up yet, if she’s been out of surgery for an hour?” Lisa asked.

  “Right now we have her in a medicated coma, we will keep her in this state for at least 24 hours it will help the brain to repair it’s self. After that it depends on Destiny and when she wants to come out of the coma there’s a good chance when we stop the medication she’ll wake up. And with her being as young as she is, we have great hopes that will be the case.”

  “Can I see her?” Jake let go of nana’s hand and looked at the doctor, trying to gage if there was anything he was still holding back.

  “Not yet. We are still getting her set up in her room and we would like to monitor her for another half hour.”

  Jake nodded. Than buried his face in his hands again.

  “I’ll keep you all up dated. As soon as she’s more stabile I can let you guys in one at a time in fifteen minute intervals.” He stood, turned and walked out the door.

    Jake stood up and walked over to the giant window and placed his forehead on the cool glass and looked out side. This time he could loose Destiny, or the baby, or them both. What had he ever done to deserve this? Just when he found his destiny the fates threatened to rip it away from him again. This half hour was going to be the longest half hour in his life.

 

 

 

 A little over a half hour passed when the doctor came back into the room. He led Jake out and down the hallway to a door. He smiled at Jake and opened the door so he could walk in. Jake looked in side and saw a nurse sitting by the bed. She stood and walked past him out the door.

  “Fifteen minutes.” The doctor reminded him. Than walked away.

  The door closed behind him as he walked into the room. He saw Destiny in the bed she looked like she was just sleeping. A white bandage was around her head; she still looked beautiful even without any hair. She had IV’s sticking out of her wrists and wires coming from her gown to machines on the side of the bed. One of the machines made a rhythmic swooshing sound as a blue coiled fabric moved up and down forcing air in and out of her lungs at regular intervals. Jake could tell that the other one was a heart monitor. He went and sat next to the bed taking Destiny’s hand in his. He brought it to his lips and kissed it softly.

  Jake took his other hand and placed it on her head than sat there staring at her. Destiny’s hand was to his lips. Jake didn’t know what to do; he had never felt so hopeless in his life. He looked down at her belly. ‘If we loose the baby we’ll just try again.’ He looked up at Destiny and spoke out load. “Hi Baby, I came back. I came back to be with you. Please be okay, I swear I’ll never leave you again if you just come back to me” Jake began to cry, he didn’t care, he let the tears fall. His heart was lying in this bed if she died his life would surely end. “I love you so much, baby, my beautiful, sweet angel.” Jake turned as he heard the door open and looked in that direction.

  “It’s been fifteen.” Brian walked in and looked at her. “Oh god!”

  “She’s going to be fine. She just needs some time to get better." Jake looked at him sternly. “She can hear everything you say.”

  “Ya Jake she’ll be fine.” Brian looked at his friend, he was loosing it. He could see Jake falling apart at the seams in front of his very eyes.

  “I’m going to leave you with Brian now, but I’ll be back.” He bent down and kissed her on the cheek than went to her belly and kissed her there to. “I’ll never leave you again, I promise.”

  Jake walked out of the room and back to the waiting room where he stayed until it was his turn to see her again. Andi asked him if he wanted to play go fish with her and Lisa. They had found a deck of cards under a table marked toys. The hospital had put it there for any small children that had to be in this place. He nodded at the girls and sat down on the floor around a small coffee table. Maybe this game could help pass the time. 

   Brain somberly walked through the door and looked at Lisa, shaking his head. Destiny looked bad her eyes black and blue, her leg wrapped to the very top of her thigh in a cast. Her head wrapped in several layers of gauze. She had looked like an angel that fallen from the sky, fragile and innocent. She reminded him of his baby sister right before she had said goodbye and had left him and their parents.

  Lisa sprang to her feet and hugged Brian; she saw the tears rising to his eyes as he looked at her. That’s when she knew it was pretty bad. She sobbed in his shoulder as she held on to his neck; he wrapped his arms around her waist.

  “Stop it!” Jake got up and yelled at them. They both turned to face him. “She’s going to be okay, the two of you are acting like she’s dieing. She’s going to make it and we’re going to be married and happy. And ….and….everything will be fine.”

  “Jake-“ Lisa spoke softly.

  “No, she’s going to be fine.” His voice shook as he fought back tears. “We’re going to be together.” Jake stormed past them and out the door.

  “I’ll get him.” Kent got up and walked over to the couple placing a hand on Brian’s shoulder. “That bad?”

  “She doesn’t look good man.”

  Kent nodded than walked out the door. He looked down the hallway and found Jake sitting by Destiny’s door, his knees to his chest, his arms resting on them and his head leaning back against the wall, his eyes shut. Kent walked over to him and sat by his side.

“Are you okay?”

  “No!” He turned his head to look at his brother. His eyes stung with pain and he had a terrible headache. And his heart felt like it was straining to keep pumping blood to his body. He felt like he was dieing.

  “She’s probably going to be fine. But she might not, and I think you should prepare your self for the chance that she might not wake up.” He turned to look at his brother. He was falling apart right here, on the floor in front of him. Kent didn’t know how to help him hold it together; if it wasn’t for Andi he’d probably be loosing it too. He couldn’t even imagine Andi in there hooked up to all those machines. The thought alone brought a felling of hopelessness to him.

  “I can’t, Kent. I love her.”

  “I know!” He reached out and took his brother’s hand. “Why don’t you go in and take Nana’s and my turn. I know nana won’t mind.”

  Jake squeezed his brother’s hand than stood up and turned and went inside the door. He walked over to the side of the bed and sat down in the chair, laying his head on the mattress and looking up at Destiny’s beautiful face, willing her to get better. He took her hand in his stroking the top of it with his thumb. “I love you, baby.” Than he closed his eyes.

 

 

 

 

  Kent walked back to the waiting room and saw everyone’s attention turn to him. He sat down next to Andi her hand holding his. He looked at Brian and Lisa. “He will die if anything happens to her. Maybe not physically, but mentally, he will die.”

  “You should have seen your dad and me pull him off Vickie, it took everything we had to get him away from her.” Brian said.

  “Ya the look on Vickie’s face was one of sheer terror.” Lisa added.

  “Do you know what happened exactly?” Kent asked. “I ran to the stairs when I heard Destiny cry out, Destiny was on the floor and Vickie was leaning over her.”

  “From what we could understand from Jake, which was hard the poor boy kept repeating himself, was that Vickie had taken Destiny’s ring and Destiny had found it in her room. Destiny took off out the door with Vickie following and Vickie had accidentally pushed her down the stairs. Jake also said something about Vickie not being pregnant after all and now he was going to loose everything, because of Vickie being a conniving bitch.”

  Kent nodded.

  “That’s what she had on him.” Nana spoke up.

  “What are you talking about?” Kent turned towards his grandmother.

  “Your father and I suspected that girl was holding something over your brothers head, but we couldn’t put our finger on it. It must have been that she was pregnant, or rather told him she was pregnant.”

  “I was wondering why he was so easy to forgive her.” Brian added.

  “I’m going to go check on Jake, I’ll be back.” Lisa smiled than walked out the door. Lisa went down the hallway and opened the door to Destiny’s room, she walked in and saw the nurse standing at the end of the bed she had her finger to her lips.

  “He’s sleeping.” She whispered. “The doctor said to go ahead and let him stay. Maybe it would help the young lady to get better if she felt his presence.”

  Lisa nodded and looked at her friend. She was as bad as Brian had said. She looked like a broken China doll all taped together. Lisa walked over to Destiny’s head and bent down to whisper in her ear. “Dessie honey, you got your wish. Jake’s here and he loves you, you just have to wake up. You hear me sweetheart, you have to wake up, I don’t think Jake can live with out you.” She kissed her on the forehead than left the room.

 

 

  Destiny woke to find her self in a bright green field with a clear crystal blue brook running through it. The trees surrounded the field in a giant circle, standing guard over the occupant of the meadow. She looked down at her self, there was no more pain, no more heartache, her head and body didn’t hurt anymore, the bruises that she was sure she would have weren’t there. Come to think of it, where was she anyway?

  Destiny remembered falling down the stairs. Kent begging her to stay there in that place of misery and agony, she couldn’t, her body hurt, and it was hard to breathe, she just wanted the blackness to over take her. Now here she was in this beautiful place of peace and serenity. She wanted to stay forever.

  Maybe she died?

  A young girl of about four was running in the field, Destiny wondered were she had come from, her laughter was carried on the wind like a sweet melody. She had gold blond hair with ringlets that reached to the small of her back; suddenly she was standing in front of Destiny.

  Destiny staggered back from the shock of her speed of movement. “You scared me little one.”

  “Mommy.” The small voice echoed in her head.

  Destiny crouched down in front of the small fragile looking girl, she had the same blue eyes as her mother except a small brown patch of color in her left eye. “Are you lost sweetie? Are you looking for your mommy?”

  “You are my mommy, if you want to be that is. If you choose to stay here then I won’t ever be.”

  “Sweetie I don’t understand, I don’t even know were here is, and I’m defiantly not your mother whether I want to be or not.” Destiny stood up and looked at the meadow as it became covered in shadows becoming darker and darker until just her and the little girl was in the light.

  “Listen for daddy mommy; he’s calling you back to him.” She began to fade in the darkness as well, panic rose inside Destiny, this was no longer the peaceful tranquil place she had assumed.

  “Don’t go little one please, don’t leave me here alone!” Destiny could no longer see the little girl, she could barely see her own hands right in front of her face. She felt the tears stream down her face as she was over come with panic. She dropped to her knees and covered her face and began to sob.

  “Mommy, don’t cry, listen, listen for daddy.” The voice said through the darkness.

  Destiny quieted her sobs and listened, she heard silent sobs from the darkness.

  “Baby please wake up…”

  “Jake, where are you?” his voice was barely audible. “I can’t find you its dark here.”

  “Baby you have to wake up, please, for my sake, for our baby’s sake. I love you.”

  “She heard faint sobs coming from somewhere, she stumbled and fought her way in the dark, suddenly she saw it a small dot of light straight ahead she took off running as fast as she could. “I’m here Jake, I’m coming, don’t cry.” She yelled as the light engulfed her completely.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Jake was sitting by Destiny’s bed. He held her hand and had laid his head down beside her on the mattress. He must have fallen asleep again because his back was sore when he sat up. Destiny’s parents had arrived four days ago, in the afternoon. He was worried they would not be pleased with him especially after finding out their little girl was pregnant. But they had surprised him. They both went to him and hugged him tightly reassuring him that they had faith in god and they new their little girl was going to be okay.

  They had kept a visual with him at Destiny’s side, her mother refusing to leave unless she had to go to the bathroom. Her father would often accompany Jake’s dad to the cafeteria but he never left the hospital either. Jake wished Destiny would wake up. He wanted to tell her about the baby.

  The doctors were keeping an eye on the pregnancy and so far it seemed like everything was right on schedule. They reminded Jake that they would not be out of the woods until they were at least past the three-month mark. They also told him that if Destiny didn’t wake up soon the chances of hitting the three-month mark would slip away.

  Jake stretched his arms over his head, arching his back and yawning. Destiny’s mother walked over to Jake and rubbed his shoulders. Jake relaxed at the kneading action of her hands. ‘So this is where Destiny learned her back rubs.’ He told himself.

  “Sweetie I think you should go with your dad and Jim to the Cafeteria the next time they go. It will do you good to get out of here.”

  “No, I won’t leave her. What if she wakes up?” He turned and looked at the woman.

  “Than I’ll tell her you’re in the cafeteria.”

  “No Charlotte, I’m not going to leave her again, ever.”

  “Okay!” She sighed heavily than kissed him on the top of the head. Jake’s dad had told her and her husband the whole story about the young lady that had lied to Jake about a pregnancy and how Jake had come to California seeking his advise only to return a few weeks later to find Destiny in the hospital. She knew the hell this young man had gone through for her little girl, they both knew. Just like they knew he would never leave their little girl as long as she was breathing and doubted he would leave if she weren’t.

  Jake heard voices come from the other side of the door. He recognized two as Jim and his father but the other one he couldn’t recognize. Brian and Lisa weren’t do up here until this evening. He stood up and touched Charlotte on the shoulder as he went to the door. It had opened at that moment and Jim stuck his head in.

  “Jake can you grab Charlotte and come out here please?”

  Jake didn’t have to say a word. He turned and saw Destiny’s mother get up and walk towards him. They had gone outside the room and were met by two doctors in white coats. They let the door shut behind them as the first doctor spoke.

  “This is Doctor Elizabeth Moony, she is an OBGYN. She’s been watching the baby and she has a few concerns, as do I.” He turned towards his companion. “Dr. Moony.”

  “Well everything seems to be doing okay, the baby’s heart rate is normal and the placenta seems to be intact, however the baby is not growing as fast as we like. I’m afraid if Destiny doesn’t wake up soon, she could loose the baby. It’s just not getting the proper nutrition that it needs. I’m sorry.”

  “There is one more thing we need to talk about as well.” Dr. Cartwright said. “Destiny is doing fine as far as physically but she’s not waking up as fast as she should be. We think that if she doesn’t start waking up in the next few days there’s a good chance she not going to.” He laid his hand on charlottes shoulder. “It’s almost like she doesn’t want to wake up.”

  Jake looked around him as he heard Charlotte let out a sob, Jim taking her in his arms and holding her to him. Jake felt his dad touch his back between the shoulder blades. Jake didn’t know what to do, that feeling of hopelessness flooding his system. He looked at the doctors who had touched Charlotte on the arm telling her, ‘their not giving up yet and they would continue to do what ever they could.’ Well that was fine with Jake but he was going to do what he could too. He touched his dad on the arm.

  “Do you have the ring with you still?”

  “It’s in the glove box of the truck.” His dad looked at him curiously. “Would you like me to go get it for you?”

  “Would you please?”

  “Sure son.” Jakes dad patted him on the shoulder then turned and walked down the hallway towards the elevator.

  Jake and Destiny’s family walked back into the room. Jake sat down by Destiny’s side and took her hand in his. He reached out and put a hand on her Belly “Don’t worry little one, Daddy’s here and I’m going to take care of you and your mommy.” He bent down and kissed her belly. He felt a hand on his shoulder then a kiss on the top of his head. He looked up and saw Destiny’s mother smiling back at him. He gave her a smile than turned and held Destiny’s hand to his lips waiting for his dad to return.

 His dad entered the room 14 minuets later. He walked up to Jake and handed him the little black box. Jake didn’t miss the glances his dad gave Destiny’s parents, he new they were only humoring him. He didn’t care what they thought he had faith that this would work. He opened the box and took out the white gold band, three diamonds on each side of an amethyst stone set in the center.

  “Destiny I need you to wake up. I want to ask you to marry me, you need to wake up.” He leaned forward and touched her lips with his.

  Jake felt charlotte put her hands on his back.

  “I’m sure she would love to marry you Honey.”

  “No she has to answer for her self.” His frustration and lack of sleep showing in his eyes.

  “Destiny honey, please wake up and answer me. I want to marry you.” Jake stood up and whispered in her ear. “Baby you have to wake up, please, for my sake, for our baby’s sake. I love you.” He sat back down watching her and when there was no response he laid his head on her chest and began to weep uncontrollably. He felt a hand on the back of his neck as another one rose to his back. He heard a soft cooing as the hand began stroking his hair.

“Don’t cry baby,  Shhhhhhhh, I’m here.”

 Jake lifted his head and saw a pair of beautiful gray eyes looking at him. She still had the bandage wrapped around her head and he had never seen anything more angelic in his life. She brought her hand down and touched his cheek, catching a tear with her thumb.

  “Don’t cry, everything is going to be okay.” Her voice was soft and barely audible but still elegant.

  “I love you, I’ve always loved you.” Jake cried. Than leaned forward and kissed her softly.

  Everyone in the room was crying silently at the wonderful miracle before them. Jim had gone out side and grabbed the first doctor he saw. The doctor pushed Jake aside gently and looked at the young woman. She smiled up at him and told him she was hungry. He hurried out of the room. A little while later he returned with Dr. Moony and Dr. Cartwright. They inspected Destiny than turned to everyone smiling. “I don’t know how you did it but it seems our sleeping beauty woke up, and with out any lasting effects that we can see so far. Of course we’ll want to do some tests, but we can wait a while.” Dr. Cartwright addressed everyone.

  “Well young lady we’re going to have to get some food in you so your baby can start growing.” Dr. Moony smiled at Destiny than walked out the door.

  “Baby? That was real?” Destiny turned to Jake with a confused look on her face.

  “What was real?”

“I think I saw her.”

“Saw who?”

“Nothing,” She realized they might think she’s crazy if she told them what had happened in the cavities of her mind. “What baby?”

  “We’re going to have a baby sweetheart.” He touched her cheek and smiled at her. “I know I’m doing this backwards honey, getting you pregnant first. But will you marry me?”

  “You don’t have to marry me because I’m pregnant, Jake.”

  “I’m not. I’m marrying you because I love you.” Jake saw her look at him uninsured. “I love you Destiny and it would cause me great pleasure if you said yes.”

  “I love you too.”

  “So will you marry me? Please!” He picked up her left hand and held the ring poised at the tip of her finger waiting to slip it on. When she still looked unsure Jake added. “Honey I bought this ring on my way back from California with my dad present. I didn’t know about the baby and I didn’t know about you I was going to ask you when I got back to the ranch but then I found out what happened and things went crazy.”

   “It’s true sweetie...” Jake SR spoke up. “we stopped at five jewelry stores before he found the right one.”

  “So will you marry me Destiny, please?”

  “Of course I will. I’ve only been waiting for two whole months.” He slipped the ring on her finger and smiled down at her. She lifted her hand that felt like it was made of lead and pulled Jake down to her. Than kissed him softly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Epilog

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Jake turned the corner of the road that led to the hospital at break neck speed. He was sure he had lost everyone at the last corner but he didn’t care. ‘Thank god they knew where the hospital was. Jake slowed down as he neared the hospitals entrance and came to a slow stop. He jumped out of the driver’s side of the 4- Runner and ran over to the passenger side. Jake opened the door and helped Destiny out of the car. He had one arm around her waist and the other one crossed his body and had her hand.

  “Another ones coming,” She looked at him and stopped where she was.

  They stood there looking at each other and breathed like they were taught in lamias class. She nodded at him when the pain started to go away and they resumed their walk back into the hospital. Jake heard a car come to a stop behind him and two people get out, he could hear them coming towards him.

  “Jake, give me your keys so I can park the truck.” His dad’s voice rang in his ear.

  “I’m going for a wheel chair Dessie.” Lisa’s voice rang out as she zoomed by them.

  Jake handed his dad the keys as Lisa came running outside with a wheel chair and a nurse. Jake lifted Destiny into the chair as another contraction hit. The nurse looked at her watch and followed them inside. She directed them to go to the elevator and up to the third floor. Destiny reached up and grabbed Jakes arm digging her fingers in the cloth the nurse looked at her watch again.

  “We’re reregistered.” Destiny told the nurse.

  “Three minuets apart.” She took the wheel chair from Jake and pushed it into the elevator than looked at Lisa and Jake as they just stood there. “Come on unless you want her to have this baby in the elevator.”

  Jake and Lisa both went in together barely squeezing through the opening. The doors closed and the elevator began to move. Destiny looked up at Jake and grabbed his arm. He looked down at her and started to breath with her again. The elevator doors opened as the contraction faded.

  “Barbara, grab the chart for,” She paused and looked at Jake.

  “Ryan, Destiny Ryan.”

  “Ryan, D. contractions are three minutes apart. Call Dr. Moony and let her know there here.”

  “Guy’s, something’s happening.” Destiny felt a gush of fluid between her legs.

  “Don’t worry dear it’s just your water breaking.” The nurse took her chart from the other nurse and wheeled her into a room.

   Jake helped Destiny on the bed as Lisa went to the elevator to wait for everyone else. The nurse helped her out of her clothes and into a gown. She helped Destiny lay down than had her spread her legs, so she could check her. She stood up from the end of the bed and pushed the call button on the remote attached to the bed. A voice came over the speaker.

  “Nurse station.”

  “This is Nancy in room 323. Destiny is dilated to ten we need Dr. Moony now.”

  “I’ll let her know.”

  “What’s wrong?” Jake asked.

  “Nothing Mr. Ryan you’re going to have a baby.” She smiled at him as she broke the bed down and placed Destiny’s feet in the stirrups.

  “I feel like I have to push.” Destiny yelled.

  “Go ahead, Honey.” The nurse said as she went to look at Destiny. “Wow we sure are a good pusher.”

  Suddenly the door opened and Dr. Moony came rushing in followed by two nurses. She placed latex gloves over her hands and stepped in front of Destiny where she could see what was happening. Destiny let out a cry as the doctor checked her. “Thought this baby wasn’t going to make it eight months ago.” She said smiling.

  “I need to push again.” Destiny cried.

  “Go a head give it all you got.” The Dr. encouraged. “Come on Destiny almost there I can see the baby’s head.”

  Jake watched his wife as she struggled to deliver their child. He whispered words of encouragement in her ear as she pushed with her contractions. Jake felt so much love, He was so proud of her and how far she had come compared to eight months ago. She had struggled with physical therapy, as she had to get used to using her leg and shoulder muscles after being immobilized. She still had pins in her leg supporting her femur but you would never know that she had been in a coma.

  “Jake!” Destiny cried out and grabbed his arm.

  “I’m here, baby.” Jake whispered in her ear. “I’m not going anywhere.”

  “One more push Dessie, we only have the shoulders left.” Dr. Moony encouraged.

  Destiny gave it one last push, and suddenly the baby’s cries filled the room. The Dr. suctioned out the mouth and nose than laid the baby on Destiny stomach. Destiny looked at her baby as tears streamed down her face, she was so tiny, and so beautiful she couldn’t believe this little tiny creature came from her.

  “It’s a girl,” The Dr. said. “Would you like to cut the cord dad?”

  Jake looked at the Dr. than took the little scissor she offered him and looked down at his baby girl.

  “Okay dad you want to cut in between the yellow clamps.” The Dr. watched Jake as he eased the blunt ended scissors between the two plastic clamps on the umbilical cord. “It’s a little hard to cut, there you go, nice job.”

  Jake handed the scissors back to the Dr. and looked at his wife and beautiful little girl. She looked just like Destiny with the exception of the raven black hair that was thick all over her head. She was staring up at him her little hand balled in a fist her blue eyes trying to discover the world. Jake looked at Destiny as she looked up at him.

  “She’s beautiful just like you.” Jake bent down and kissed her on the lips than turned and kissed his baby daughter on the head.

  The nurse reached down and took the baby. “Follow us daddy we’re going to get cleaned up.” She said as she walked her over to the baby warmer.

  Jakes baby girl screamed in protest as the nurses wiped off her skin and wrapped her in a blanket, and put a little pink hat on her head. She picked her up and handed her to Jake. He carried her back over to her mother as the Nurses cleaned up the room and put it back together than ushered out the other nurses and her self only to be replaced by Jake and Destiny’s family that came rushing in.

  “It’s a girl!” Jake announced to everyone.

  “What’s her name?” Brian asked.

  “Brittany Jayden Elizabeth Ryan.” Jake announced as he handed her off to her grandmother.

 

 

 

  Jake turned towards Destiny beaming as she lay in bed looking at everyone enjoying their daughter. Her hair had grown in and framed her face with short little curls. He saw her gaze shift to him and he walked up to her sitting beside her on the bed. She reached up and touched the side of his face softly.

  “I love you, Jake Ryan.”

  “And I love you, Destiny Ryan.” He bent forward and kissed her deeply.