Angel leaves her boyfriend James after discovering he has been unfaithful. She drives to her new apartment overlooking the ocean, which she has secretly purchased and furnished without James' knowledge. She calls Mark, a man she met previously and has feelings for. Mark arrives and embraces Angel passionately. They express their longing for each other and the relationship they hope to build now that Angel is available.

1. How Can
I…
By S.L .

3. Chapter 1
She turned and looked him in the eye. “What do you mean it’s over,” James said
as Angel turned away. He grabbed her shoulders and turned her back to face
him. “Admit it. Things haven’t been good for a long time. We just don’t click
anymore. Can’t you see it,” Angel said. He leaned in to kiss her and remind her
of how things did work. Angel backed up and headed towards the hallway. She
grabbed her bags and started walking towards the door. “You can’t do this. Not
like this,” he said. Angel was determined. She put her bags down only for a
moment. Just long enough to pull on her trench coat and flip her long blonde
hair over the collar. She grabbed her keys, leaving the house keys on the
counter. James headed down the hallway towards her. She picked up her bags,
pushed the door open and headed for the car. She threw the bags into the trunk
and headed for the door. “You can’t do this to me Angel. What the hell do I do
without you,” James said. “You’ll manage. Maybe one of the other girlfriends
can help you out,” she said closing the car door and starting the car. He was in
shock. She knew. How could she have known? He watched her car fade into
the distance down the dirt road and knew that it was really over this time.
Angel was so headstrong and smart. She was sometimes even too smart for her
own good. Her long blonde hair and curves were what had attracted James at
first. She stood 5 foot 8 with crystal blue eyes that could draw in even the
strongest man to her charms. No matter what she wore, she was beautiful to
him. Angel had been through too many rough times in her life to not know
when to get out. She’d warned James from the start that any disappointment
was too much. She wouldn’t stand to be kept at arms length. She wanted to be
his number one and his only one. She was so caring and loving. James should
have known the minute that she started sleeping in another room that things
were going sour. She could have had any man she wanted. Now she would
have to remind herself of that. She had loved James to a fault. She had been
wearing rose-colored glasses for so long that she couldn’t see what he’d been
doing. A few months ago, she’d decided to start putting money away. She
wanted to have herself covered. She’d got a job, without his knowledge, and put
away enough for rent and utilities for at least a year. Being prepared for the
worst was something she had been used to doing. She’d hoped she would never
have to run again, but now, she knew leaving was the right thing to do. This
wasn’t the first time, and it wouldn’t be the last. She searched for perfection and
came up empty handed with James. It was time to stack her hand again.
James couldn’t believe she’d left. He thought he’d been so careful. He thought
she would never have found out. From the minute he met Angel, he thought
they were destined to be together. He remembered seeing her at that dance two
years ago. She was the center of attention to half the men in the room. The hard-

4. 2
to-get woman knew what she’d wanted. He took a chance and she had accepted
his offer for a dance. It’s true that James wasn’t a great dancer, but how hard
could a slow song be. All he had to do was hold her close to him. He was the
quiet one. The one that nobody noticed. The one who was shy and introverted.
He had confidence, only after a drink or two. She’d been the best thing in his life
until he’d made the mistake of wandering from her. She’d only found out about
one. The one he spent numerous nights talking to on the phone. The one that
bought him presents. One was enough.
James stood a tall 6 foot 2, and worked out hard on perfecting his physique. He
wanted to look good for Angel, or at least that’s what he told people. They’d
come so far and were so close. His blonde hair shone in the afternoon sun as his
tanned skin glowed. He’d come home with a surprise for Angel, but found one
of his own – packed bags.
Angel headed down the street and right towards the freeway. The minute she
got into the high speeds, she was breathing a sigh of relief. The pressure she’d
been carrying had been lifted off her shoulders and she felt like she’d lost 50
pounds. She knew just where to head. She started her long drive. The closer she
got, the more she could smell the salty air of the ocean. She’d found a two
bedroom apartment overlooking the water. Something she had always wanted.
She’d got furniture and painted without James ever knowing. Now all she
needed to do was move in.
She pulled into the parking lot, grabbed her bags and headed to the elevator.
The minute she entered the doors of her new apartment, she smiled. “It’s mine.
All mine,” Angel said. She dropped her bags and walked out onto the balcony.
She breathed in the salt air and closed her eyes to feel the air on her skin. Now
she had everything she wanted – well, almost everything. She walked over to
her sofa and grabbed the phone digging a business card from her purse. Her
stomach started to get butterflies.
“Hello,” a voice said.
“Hi Mark,” Angel replied.
“Where are you? I didn’t think I would hear from you. It’s been so long,” he
said.
“I am at my place. My new place,” Angel replied smiling. “You mean,” he
asked. “I left. I just got here,” Angel said. “Be there in 10,” Mark replied. He
knew just how to get there. He’d memorized the route. Angel hung up and
leaned back.
She’d met Mark one night when she was out with her girlfriends. He was almost
6 foot 3 and was handsome and kind. He had a caring heart. He was exactly

5. 2
what she’d spent so long trying to find. He was kind, compassionate and
creative, but he also had book smarts. He was intelligent and unconventional in
so many ways. He didn’t have a perfect past, but either did Angel. His smile
was contagious to her. One touch from him and her heart raced. He worked out
almost religiously and it definitely showed. They’d met one night when she was
having a girl’s night. Her friend Raven had introduced them. “See I knew you’d
like him,” Raven had said as Mark headed to say goodnight to his friends before
walking the ladies to their car. “Will I ever see you again,” Mark had said
holding her hand. He leaned down and kissed Angel, wrapping his arms
around her. “Did that answer your question,” Angel had replied. He kissed her
again and leaned her against the car. “Tell me you don’t have to go right now,”
he said in-between kisses. “I have to go home. I’ll call you or something,” Angel
said trying to move towards the car door to open it. He pulled his business card
from his wallet and wrote his number on it, then slid it into her hand. He backed
away and tried to let her go, but the minute the car pulled away, he couldn’t help
but wish she were there with him.
They’d spent the better part of 6 or 7 months talking every day when she was
alone at home for another night. He’d spent months hoping for that moment
where she would call him and say that she wanted to see him. Nothing had
happened between them, but he couldn’t help but reminisce about the night
they’d met. They’d talked about what would have happened if she’d let her
friends leave without her. How different things would have been if he’d met her
before James had got his claws into her. All those talks were about to come to
reality. Crystal got up from the sofa and went into her bedroom, bags in hand.
She put away the rest of her clothes and slipped on her dress that hugged every
curve. She put her heels on and came out into the TV room. The phone rang
again. There was a guest in the lobby for her. “It’s a gentleman by the name of
Mark,” the concierge said. “Send him up. Thanks,” she’d replied. She checked
her makeup and hair, then there was a knock at the door. She opened it and he
stepped through the door.
He picked her up into his arms and kissed her letting the door close behind him.
She wrapped her arms around his neck and slipped his glasses off. He dropped
his coat to the floor and leaned her against the wall. He didn’t want to waist a
second. He’d put on her favorite scent and she breathed it in. He kissed her
neck and her ear. There were no words to say. He finally put her down and
walked her backwards to the sofa. “I thought this day would never come,” Mark
said. He kneeled down in front of Angel and wrapped his arms around her
waist putting his head in her lap. She held him. “You and me both,” Angel said
as he turned his head to look into her eyes. The passion was intense between
them. He kissed her stomach then slowly moved up her torso. He kissed her
again and couldn’t help himself. “I love your kisses,” he said. “Better get used

6. 2
to them,” Angel said as she leaned towards the side and laid down on the sofa.
He kissed her neck and cradled her in his arms. “I have been dreaming about
this for months,” Angel said as Mark came up for breath. “You and me both,” he
said. “You know, I can’t really believe this is happening. What happened,”
Mark asked.
He’d heard the whole story of infidelity. The way she’d been feeling for months
was only told to him. He knew she’d been near her breaking point, but this? “I
went down to his work to talk to him. He’s had no idea that I saved this much
money. According to the real estate agent, I had enough to put a down payment
on this condo and still have lots of money for furniture and utilities. I went in
and his secretary told me he was in a meeting. An old friend. All I could hear
were noises from his office. I walked out and called the agent back telling her to
get the papers together. The past month, I have painted and picked out
furniture. I took my items from his house and moved them here and he didn’t
even notice. Today, they brought the entertainment center and the TV. I knew
he had to notice that. When he came home, he had lipstick on his ear. I said I
was leaving and I did. I knew I would be happier here,” Angel said. “I know
you will be too, but are you trying to tell me that he didn’t even notice,” Mark
asked. “Nope. He wouldn’t have noticed that I was gone if he hadn’t come
home while I was leaving,” Angel said. He could see the tears starting to well in
her eyes. “Rest assured. That will never happen again,” Mark said. He kissed
her and wrapped his arms around her.
Angel was so comfortable in his arms. By the time darkness hit, they were curled
up on the sofa together watching old movies. The feel of his heartbeat against
her back felt right. He warmed her through and through. When their stomachs
started to growl, they knew that they would have to get up. “I’ll order
something for us. What do you want,” Angel asked. “You don’t want me to
really answer that question do you,” Mark asked. “What do you want Mark.
Seriously,” Angel asked. “Chinese,” he said grabbing the phone from her hand.
He ordered dinner then kissed Angel hanging up the phone. He leaned her
against the wall. “Why don’t you tell me what you really want,” she teased. He
pulled the tie of her dress sliding his hand around her bare waist. He pulled her
to him. “Really,” Angel teased. He kissed her again and she was at his mercy.
He picked her up wrapping her legs around him and carried her to the bedroom.
He laid her on the bed and pulled his shirt off. He slid her heels off and dropped
them to the floor. He leaned down and kissed her. She was intoxicated with one
kiss. He slipped her arms from her dress and pulled it to the floor. “More
beautiful than I ever imagined,” Mark said. “Thank you,” Angel said kissing
him and pulling him closer. He slid a hand down her leg to wrap it around him
and there was a knock at the door. “I’ll get it,” Mark said. “Don’t move a
muscle.” He went for the door and came back with the Chinese Food in his

7. 2
hand. He put it on the counter and kissed Angel. “Dinner now or later,” he
asked. Angel motioned for him to come closer. She kissed him. “So now it is,”
he replied taking her hand. They headed back into the TV room and had dinner.
When she was finished, Angel cleaned up then walked past Mark. He wrapped
an arm around her as she passed him and followed her back to the bedroom. He
grabbed something from the counter.
“Now where were we,” Mark asked. He kissed Angel hard and leaned her back
onto the bed. He caressed her skin and kissed her stomach. He kissed every
curve. He couldn’t stop himself. “We have to stop this. This isn’t what I was
planning to do,” Mark said coming up for air. “We do have all the time in the
world now don’t we,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “You mean that,” Mark
asked. Angel nodded. He pulled her to him and she wrapped her legs around
his waist. “I guess we can take our time and do this right then,” Mark said. He
kissed her again. “And just what were you thinking,” Angel asked. “On the
weekend. You’ll find out,” he said. He kissed her hard and leaned her back
down. They fell asleep a few hours later with Angel in Mark’s arms. She’d
never felt more relaxed. He’d never wanted her more.
The next morning, Angel woke up and Mark was gone. No note. She rolled over
to an empty side of the bed. Looking at the clock, she realized why. It was
almost 10 am. Thank god she’d taken that day off work. Angel got up, cleaned
up and slipped into a hot bubble bath in her massive new tub. She leaned back
and relaxed a while, then hopped out and got dressed. The minute she was
about to leave, she noticed a text message on her cell.
Hope you slept well. Almost woke you up sleeping beauty – M
Angel smiled. She replied back.
Slept great. A little lonely when I woke up. Handsome man had
disappeared – A
Angel headed out for some groceries. Buying for one was never so enjoyable.
She knew that afternoon would be filled with calls from just about everyone she
knew. By now, they’d all probably called looking for her. A little part of her felt
bad for what she’d done. She knew it wasn’t totally the proper thing to do, but
she knew she had to do it for her. After the grocers, she stopped at the nail salon
then headed home. When she walked in, the concierge told her a package had
arrived. “It ain’t tickin’ so I figured it was okay,” he said handing it to Angel.
She got upstairs and opened it. A dozen sterling roses. They had to be from

8. 2
Mark. James would never have done anything like that. She opened them and
put them in water, then read the card.
For my sleeping beauty, from your prince charming. Have a
surprise for you tonight. Another package coming for you.
Two minutes later, there was a knock at the door. “Thanks,” Angel said taking
the box. She opened it and found a pink dress that was similar to the one she
was wearing when she met Mark - it fit her perfectly. She slipped on her lingerie
underneath it, and found a pair of heels after putting the groceries away.
By the time Mark showed, Angel was all ready for their night out. He took her
hand and led her to the elevator. “We in a rush,” she asked. “Was afraid we
wouldn’t’ make it to the elevator,” he said kissing her. He leaned her into the
elevator wall and kissed her again. The doors opened and they headed outside.
They hopped into his car and headed off for her surprise.
They approached a restaurant. Small lights lined the terrace and each table had
candles. “Right this way sir,” the waitress said smiling. “Planned,” Angel asked.
Mark smiled and held her hand. She took a seat and he did as well. “This is a
beautiful little place. It’s amazing what I missed living so far off from the beach
all this time,” Angel said. He took her hand in his. They ordered some wine and
dinner, then took their drinks to the terrace. He took her hand and asked her to
dance. He held her so close. She put her head on his shoulder. She’d never had
a romantic night like this. She was almost blown away. “I guess you are
enjoying your surprise,” Mark said kissing her forehead. “More than you
know,” Angel replied. When the song was over, he led her back to the table.
They had dinner then had some coffee. They headed out of the restaurant, and
he led her to the beach. “Walk with me,” he asked. Angel nodded. The night
couldn’t be more perfect. They walked a while then stopped by the rocks. It’s so
beautiful out here tonight,” Angel said. “Definitely is,” he replied staring at
Angel. He kissed her. “Couldn’t get better,” he said. Angel nodded. “I know
what you are thinking,” he said. Angel smiled and took his hand leading him
back to the car. She leaned against the door and he kissed her. “I swear I am
addicted to this,” Mark said. “What might that be,” Angel said wrapping her
arms around him. “You. Everything about you. Your kiss, the feel of your skin
on mine. I want you so bad I can taste it,” Mark said. “I guess you should take
me home then,” Angel said. He kissed her and lifted her up wrapping her legs
around him. He kissed her chest, then her neck. “Can’t wait that long,” Mark
said. She tried to get down, but he wouldn’t let go. “Only 10 minutes away. I
can’t either, but we can hurry,” Angel said kissing him. He put her down and
they hopped in the car, taking off to her place.

9. 2
He looked over at her. Every light, he kissed her. They seemed to have hit every
one. She was sneaking something. The next light, the longest one they believed
in the entire area, and she gave him his surprise. She slipped something in his
pocket. “Tell me you didn’t,” he said kissing her hard again. The light turned
green. He got through the last light and pulled into the parking garage. Angel
got out and headed for the door. He put his hand in his pocket. She did. He
had seen it all. Someone who wanted him as much as he wanted her. Now he’d
definitely seen it all. He walked towards her and she headed inside towards the
elevator. He followed behind. The key was pressed. There were other people in
the elevator. Angel got on with Mark and stood in the back corner. “Lost
something,” he whispered in her ear. Something about him made Angel
adventurous. What she’d just done was so out of character for her. “I know
exactly where it is,” Angel whispered back. She leaned back against him.
“Tease,” he whispered. “And,” she replied. They stepped out of the elevator
and she headed for her apartment. She opened the door and stepped inside.
Mark closed the door behind them. He pushed her into the wall and kissed her.
“I can’t believe you,” he said. He undid the dress and pushed it to the floor. He
looked and she’d slipped on his one weakness item – garters and stockings. He
picked her up wrapping her legs around him. He pulled it off and dropped it to
the ground. He refused to let go of her lips. She pulled his shirt off and went for
his jeans. He grabbed her hands pinning them to the wall. He kissed every inch
of her chest, then moved to her neck. “Mark. Shit I want you,” Angel said. He
kissed her hard and walked her to the bedroom, pulling his belt off as they
walked. She knew he wanted her too. She could feel it. His jeans fell to the
ground and he leaned her onto the bed. He kissed and tasted her from head to
toe, cherishing every taste. He kissed her again and was hooked. There was no
way he was leaving. Never. “Thank god it’s Saturday,” he thought to himself.
He slipped her bra off, kissed her and made love to her.
It had been so long since Angel had been touched this way. She wanted him.
She mattered to someone again. Someone noticed when she slipped on the
lingerie instead of ignoring it and not noticing until it was in the wash. The feel
of his lips and his tongue against her turned her on in every way. She’d waited
so long to feel this again. All of it was worth it.
He wrapped his arms around Angel and refused to let go. “God baby. I am
speechless,” Mark said. He was holding Angel so close she could feel his heart
pumping. “You are…” Angel said. He kissed her neck again and held her
breasts in his hands. “James is blind. I swear. He has to be,” Mark said. “He
must have been,” Angel said trying to change the topic. “I don’t want to be
without you. Now that you are free, I don’t want you to ever have to sleep
alone,” Mark said. “I just got out of,” Angel said. “I know. We’ll take it slow. I

10. 2
don’t ever want to lose this,” Mark said. “I can’t do the relationship thing Mark.
Not after that,” Angel said. “Please. I promise to never ever let things get like
that,” Mark said sliding his hand down to her leg. “I just got out of it. I can’t
jump back in this soon,” Angel said. “I’ll never make you unhappy,” he asked.
He slid a hand between her legs. “I know you wouldn’t, but I can’t do this now,”
Angel said. “I need some single time to figure all this out.” “You don’t want
this? Me,” Mark asked. “I do, I just don’t want the ties. Not right now. Give me
time,” Angel said. “Willpower eh,” he said running a finger over her. “Starting
tomorrow,” Angel said. “I guess the night will have to last a while then,” Mark
said. She could feel him behind her. Every movement reminded her of how
good he felt making love to her. She knew what she had to do. She couldn’t
attach herself to someone new this fast. She had finally got away from one man,
and wasn’t about to flip flop to another.
He spent the rest of the night convincing her that she was wrong. She kept
resisting. “How can I after everything I have been through. Just give me time,”
Angel said. “I know you want me. I have waited too long for you already,”
Mark said. Angel tried to leave the room and he wrapped his arms around her.
“Please. Don’t make me wait anymore,” Mark said. He turned her to face him
and kissed her. “I can’t live without this. I want you. All of you,” he said.
“Give me time. Just a month. Give me my single time,” Angel said in-between
his kisses. “You want someone else,” he asked placing her hand on him. “No,
but,” she replied. He kissed her hard. “Not enough for you,” he whispered in
her ear as he made love to her against the wall. “It’s….not…..that,” Angel said.
He kissed her hard. “You want it,” he said. “Hell yeah,” Angel said as he
continued. Every muscle started to ache from exhaustion. He carried her back to
the bed. He kissed her neck hard, then her shoulder. He made his way down
then found the one spot to make her give in. “Mark. Stop,” Angel said. She was
digging her nails into his hand. He knew he’d found it. He’d made her beg. He
kept going and going until he felt her body tense. He moved his way back up to
her and kissed her. “Now what was it you were saying,” he said. She kissed
him and pulled him to her. “Change your mind,” he said kissing her neck hard.
“No,” Angel said. “No because you want more, or no,” he asked. “I couldn’t ask
for more. I just need some time to find me again,” Angel said.
She got up and slipped on her pink satin robe and headed into the other room.
She grabbed the wine from the fridge. She uncorked it and poured herself a
glass then walked out to the balcony and leaned against the glass railing. Her
hair blew in the breeze and she closed her eyes taking a deep breath. “Would
anyone understand better than her girls how this is? She’d been with James so
long, she had forgotten who she was. Only in the last year or so had she realized
that she wanted more. She’d started to get her life back. Her job was great, and
even better now that she got a raise and promotion. She sipped her wine and

11. 2
Mark came out behind her wrapping his arms around her. “I do understand. I
have been there too remember. I just don’t want to pass this by,” Mark said.
“Either do I. Just give me some time to get used to being alone. After a month, I
will probably be ready. I just need some time. I missed being me. I missed the
things I always loved to do. I barely get to do them anymore. I want to go
horseback riding in the ocean, walking in the rain. I want to do things just
because,” Angel said sipping her wine. “I’ll care about you even more,” he said.
He kissed her cheek. “So you understand and you’re okay with it,” Angel said.
“So long as I can still see you and be with you every once in a while, I am okay
with it,” Mark said. Angel turned. He kissed her and took her glass sipping the
remainder of the wine. “Dance with me,” he asked putting the glass on the table.
“No music,” Angel answered. She heard a song come over the speakers. She put
her head on his shoulder and he held her in his arms. They slow danced to Eric
Clapton, then headed back inside and straight to bed. She fell asleep in his arms,
and he watched her, then nodded off himself.

12. 2
Chapter 2
Monday morning, Angel got up and headed to work. She checked her voicemail
on her cell phone, and had message after message from her girls. “I tried to call
you. What happened? James told me you left! He sounds bad girl. Get back to
me,” her one friend had said. Angel smiled and pulled into the parking lot at her
work. “Was wondering when I would see you again,” her friend (Alicia) said.
“Was a little busy this weekend,” Angel said. “I see that. What happened to you
and James? What you trying to do, shock all your girls,” she asked. “No. I
made a decision and finally stuck to it. I had to go,” Angel replied. Her friend
followed her to her office and shut the door. “What do you mean had to,” she
asked. “I’ve been putting money aside for months. I finally had enough to do
what I needed to. I went to talk to him at his work last week, and he was with
someone else. He didn’t want to be with me, never noticed if I was there or not,
but wanted someone. I put a down payment on a condo and got my furniture,
then left on Thursday,” Angel said. “Then why do you seem so damn happy,”
her friend asked. “Relief,” Angel replied. Her friend could see the smile on her
face that hadn’t been there in so long. Nobody knew that she’d spent months
talking to Mark and he’s what had kept her sane. “Sure it was. What’s his
name,” she asked laughing. “Has nothing to do with a man. I am just happy to
be on my own again,” Angel said. She couldn’t tell her the truth. It made her
seem as bad as James. “We have to have a little celebration. Where you want to
go tonight,” she asked. “Amore,” Angel said. “I’ll call the girls. You look great
considering,” she said. She left the office and Angel sat down at her desk.
Mid-day, Angel had finally got through the mounds of work on her desk. She
headed outside and grabbed some lunch then sat down for a quiet lunch alone.
Her cell rang. “So I heard the news. Why didn’t you tell me,” Raven said. “I
haven’t really talked to anyone about it. You know what was happening. You
also know me better than to think I would put up with it without a backup plan,”
Angel said. “Damn you are resourceful aren’t you,” Raven said. “Just like a
good girl scout,” Angel replied. They laughed a little. “It’s too bad that you
didn’t meet that Mark guy now. He was a catch I tell ya,” Raven said. A smile
came across Angel’s lips. “Definitely,” Angel said. There was a pause. “You
still have his number don’t you,” Raven asked. “Somewhere. Would have to
search for it,” Angel said. “Saturday night. Don’t make any plans. I have it
here. Going to get you back into the swing of things girl,” Raven said. Angel
laughed. “I’ll talk to you later,” Angel said. She finished her lunch, relaxed a
while, and then headed back inside.
She walked into her office to find an arrangement of flowers. They were her
favorites all combined into one. She grabbed the card. She should have known.

13. 2
They were from James. His ‘peace offering’. Angel took them to her assistant.
“Thought you might like something to brighten your desk,” Angel said.
“Thanks miss heart,” she said. Angel headed back in and sat down at her desk.
She shredded the card, and got back to work. By the end of the day, she was
looking forward to a quiet night at home. She got to her car and headed back to
her condo. She walked into her place and immediately poured a glass of wine.
She drew herself a hot bubble bath, turned the ringer off on her cell and stepped
into the warm suds. She leaned back and closed her eyes. A little while later, her
house phone rang. “Hey. Sure. You can send him up,” Angel said. Mark was
there….unannounced.
“Hey beautiful,” he said as she opened the door in her towel. He kissed her and
leaned her into the wall. “I thought we were taking our time with this,” Angel
said as his kisses trailed down her neck. “Missed something,” he said. He
picked her up and wrapped her legs around him. “And just what might that
be,” Angel said sarcastically. He kissed her hard and walked towards the
bedroom. He laid her on the bed not letting her go from the kiss. He pulled his
dress shirt off and pulled her close to him. “I see you missed me,” Angel said as
he pulled her towel off. He kissed her then moved down. “What happened to
not convincing me,” Angel asked. “Doing my best,” he said kissing her hip. Her
cell buzzed from the counter. She tried to grab it. “You sure you want to do
that,” he asked moving between her legs. She opened her phone. “Angel. I
talked to him. Saturday we are on. We are going to that dance bar. That cool,”
Raven asked. Angel tried to hold back her reaction to Mark. “Great. I’ll call you
later. Busy,” Angel said hanging up. “Told ya so,” Mark said getting more
intense. He moved back up and slipped his dress pants off. “Now this is how
we should be ending a day,” he whispered in her ear as he nibbled her earlobe.
They made love over and over again until they were both tired out. “Missed me
didn’t you,” he asked. “Didn’t realize how much until you got here,” Angel said.
“So Saturday night? You didn’t tell her,” Mark asked. “We already talked about
this,” Angel said. She got up, grabbed her housecoat and went into the kitchen.
She made some dinner for them, and sat down at the table. “I know. I am
counting down to that day Angel. Can’t we just tell them we are spending time
together,” Mark asked. “Raven keeps trying to push us together anyway. Why
can’t we just tell her we are seeing each other or something?” Angel continued
eating her dinner. When she finished she started cleaning up. “Okay. I get it. I
just don’t want to share you with anyone,” Mark said. Angel went and sat
outside on her balcony and watched the sunset. “I’m sorry,” he said standing at
the sliding door. “Just sit and relax okay,” Angel said closing her eyes. She
could hear the rolling waves hitting the shore and could smell the salt air.
“Maybe we shouldn’t go out on Saturday,” Angel said. “Why not? Better
plans,” he asked. “Yeah. I need a night alone. Completely alone,” Angel said.

14. 2
“We have to go. I will leave you be until then. I promise. After Saturday, you
became a little addicting. I promise. Please,” John said. He walked towards her.
“Come on. I’ll tuck you in,” John said taking Angel’s hand. “I’ll call you if I
change my mind. Until then, I’ll see you on Saturday,” Angel said walking Mark
to the door. He kissed her then headed out, and Angel headed for her sofa. She
flipped on the TV and relaxed a while then went to bed.
The next day, she walked into her office and James was sitting in the chair. She
turned to walk out and he grabbed her hand. “Let me explain. Please,” he
begged. “Get out James. This is my place of work. Drama free atmosphere.
Leave,” Angel said. He walked towards her and she backed up. He leaned in to
try to kiss her and she walked out. He grabbed her hand and pulled her back in.
He locked the door, drew the blinds and stood in front of the door. “What the
hell could be so damn important that you have to do this? Get out James. I don’t
want to see you again. Ever,” Angel said. He kissed her and pinned her to the
wall. “You can’t leave me. You know damn well you can’t,” he said
unbuttoning her shirt. She pushed him away, buttoned her shirt and called
security. He pulled the phone from the wall. “Get out James. I have left. Get
over it. Go back to your girlfriends. Maybe they’ll want you now that they can
have you all to themselves,” Angel said unlocking and walking out the door of
her office. She headed down the hall to security and asked that they ban him
from the premises. “Yes ma’am,” they said taking James and escorting him off
the property.
Angel headed back into her office and cleaned up. “You okay Miss Heart,” the
security person asked. “Yes. Just put him on the non-approved list,” Angel said.
“Will do,” the officer said. A little while later, some of the girls came in. “I heard
what happened this morning. You okay,” they asked. “Fine. He’s banned.
We’re good,” Angel said. “What is his problem anyway,” (Alicia) said. “Pissed
because he has no choice but to accept it,” Angel said. “Can’t wait until
Saturday,” they said then headed to their desks. The rest of the day was nice and
quiet for Angel. She got everything done, then headed home. She went for a
walk on the beach for a while, then headed inside. She relaxed with some quiet
music and a good book, then went to bed early. “This is the life,” Angel said.
By the time Saturday night rolled around, she was really looking forward to
seeing Mark. Her and her girls got all dolled up, mani and pedi included, and
headed off to the restaurant. When Mark walked in, he walked right towards
Angel. “Nice seeing you again Mark,” Raven said. He picked Angel up in his
arms and kissed her. “I see she has her own way of saying hello,” Aubrey said.
The girls laughed. Mark came and sat down right beside Angel. “Good idea for
us to meet here before we went to the bar,” Mark said. “I can see that now,”
Raven said. He stared into Angel’s eyes and held her hand in his under the

15. 2
table. “So I take it this means you still want to get together with Angel eh Mark,”
(Alicia) said. “Definite possibility,” Mark replied. He slipped his hand from
hers and put it on her thigh. They ordered dinner, and had a drink and all
relaxed a bit. They all got caught up on everything. The more Angel talked the
higher up Mark’s hand slid. “So we all ready to head out to the club,” Raven
asked. “Why don’t we have one more drink before we go. I can’t stay long
tonight,” Angel said. “Plans,” Aubrey asked. “Sort of. I have a meeting with a
personal trainer tomorrow that I can’t miss,” Angel said. They ordered their last
drink. Mark teased her. “No wonder you wanted another,” Mark said as his
hand played with her. “Not here,” Angel whispered in his ear. They finished
their drinks. “Why don’t I drive with Angel. We’ll meet you there,” Mark said.
“You better you two,” Raven said.
They paid the bill, then headed to their vehicles. “See you in a few,” Raven said
as all the girls hopped into her SUV. The minute they left eye shot, Mark kissed
Angel. He unlocked the doors and they hopped in. He pulled out of the parking
lot heading the opposite direction. “Where are you taking me,” Angel asked. He
turned right into a parking area for the beach. He grabbed a blanket from the
back seat and took her hand leading her to a private area of beach he’d found.
He kissed her again and threw the blanket on the sand. “Hotter than ever,” he
said as he picked her up and wrapped her legs around him. He kissed her hard
then leaned her into the rock. “And who missed who,” Angel said feeling his
manhood against her skin. He pulled his dress pants off and made love to her
against the rock, then to the sand. He licked and teased every part of her, then
made love to her again. “We don’t really have to go do we,” he asked kissing her
neck hard. “Shit. I forgot all about it. We have to go. They’ll be looking for us,”
Angel said grabbing her dress and slipping it back on. They got re-dressed and
headed for his car. “You know they are going to figure it out,” Mark said.
“Nope. Just go. We’re already late,” Angel said. She fixed up her makeup and
he pulled into the parking lot. They hopped out, locked up and headed in.
“We’re over here Angel,” Raven said. Mark and Angel walked towards the
group. “Forgot something at my place. Had to stop for it,” Angel said. “And
just when do we get to see this beautiful condo,” Alicia asked. “Almost settled
in. Still a few boxes to unpack,” Angel said and she sat down with Mark at her
side. “You know, you two make one hell of a couple,” Raven said. “Did you
want a drink,” Mark asked Angel. She nodded and he got up and headed to the
bar. “Spill. Where were you really? An hour late and you didn’t expect us to
ask,” her girlfriends asked. “We went for a walk, then I grabbed my other shoes,
then we came here. Nothing else,” Angel said. Raven shook her head with a
grin. “Okay. I guess I will believe you then,” Raven said with a giggle. Mark
came back, handed Angel some wine, then took her out to the dance floor. He’d

16. 2
requested Eric Clapton. “I don’t care what she claims. Something is up,”
Aubrey said.
Angel and Mark danced a few songs together, then headed back to the table. The
girls were all catching up. “So we are all trying to figure this out. Why did
James come to the office? What was his problem,” Raven asked. “He sent
flowers the day before. He was trying to apologize. I told him to leave. That’s it.
He didn’t notice when I was there, but he definitely noticed now that I’m not,”
Angel said. Mark held her hand tighter. “Does he know that you and Mark are
an item,” Alicia asked. “We just saw each other tonight for the first time in a
while. I haven’t even heard from her. Why would you say that,” Mark said
backing up Angel’s story. “Seems the two of you are a little cozier than we all
thought,” Aubrey said. Angel and Mark both laughed. “Maybe you were right
Raven,” Alicia said. “I know I was. They have major chemistry,” Raven replied.
“What you two whispering about now,” Angel asked. Raven gave her a look.
“We’re going to hit the floor. Coming,” Alicia asked as her, Raven and Aubrey
headed to the dance floor. “I think I may sit this one out,” Angel said. They
laughed and headed to the floor in the other side where the single men were.
Mark leaned over and kissed Angel’s neck. “Say the word,” he whispered.
“Which word might that be Mark? The one that tells you that I have nothing on
under this, or the one that tells you that I want you,” Angel teased. He kissed
her as Alicia was heading back for her drink. Angel heard giggling. Alicia was
heading back to the girls. Mark didn’t stop. “Not here,” Angel said. By the time
the girls headed back, they’d all heard what Alicia had seen. “Okay. Now we
know something is up,” Aubrey said. “I really have no idea what you are talking
about,” Mark said sliding his hand down Angel’s back. “Okay. When you are
ready to spill, we’ll alert the media for you,” Raven teased. “Really, I think we
have to get going. My appointment is at 9, and I don’t want to be tired for my
first day of workouts,” Angel said. “Sure you don’t,” Alicia teased. Angel and
Mark said their goodbyes. “I have something for you. Don’t lose it,” Raven said
slipping something into Angel’s hand. “Will do. Talk to you later ladies,” Angel
said. They headed towards the door when Angel looked down to see what
Raven had handed her. Mark took her hand. “I know you’ll be needing that,” he
replied. Angel turned around and shot Raven a look as she laughed.
Mark and Angel pulled into her driveway. He parked and pulled her into his
lap. “Damn you are a tease and a half aren’t you,” Mark asked. “Aim to please,”
Angel replied hopping out of the car. They headed to the door. “There’s a
package here for you,” the concierge said. Mark took it from the counter and
carried it upstairs. He handed it to her as she closed the door. She opened it and
dropped it to the floor. “What is it,” Mark said bending down to pick it up. It
was flowers from James. “How the hell did he find out where I live? It’s

17. 2
unlisted,” Angel said. Mark grabbed the phone to call the concierge. “They
were dropped off. The gentleman wanted to wait and I told him that the lady
was out for the night,” he said. Mark hung up. “He can’t get to you here.
There’s too much security. Relax,” Mark said. He held Angel in his arms. There
was a message on her voicemail. Time stamp was about the time they left the
parking lot of the restaurant. “We need to talk. I am coming by.” “I knew this
would happen. He saw us,” Angel said. “He saw you were moving on. He
knows it now. He’ll back off if I have to make him,” Mark said. “This is why I
said I needed alone time. He probably thinks I was with you before I broke it off
with him,” Angel said walking to the kitchen. Mark grabbed the wine bottle
from her. He grabbed two glasses, took her hand and led her to the balcony.
“Think rationally. He can’t do anything. You aren’t together anymore. Let me
help you,” Mark said handing her a glass. He sat down on the chaise behind her
and she curled up in his arms. “Do you understand now why I said what I did,”
Angel asked. “Yes, and my answer is you are better off being with me,” Mark
answered kissing her.
“Can we try to keep this quiet for a little while then until he goes away,” Angel
asked. “We could, but I think the jig is up with your girlfriends,” Mark said
putting his glass and Angel’s on the table. “A little too obvious eh,” Angel said
turning to face him. “Definitely,” Mark said kissing her. She got up and headed
inside. “Where are you going,” Mark asked. “I’ll meet you in the bedroom.
Have a little surprise for you,” Angel said. He did as she asked. She came in a
little while later, lit a few candles, turned on her slow jams CD and walked
towards him. He looked over and was in shock. “Surprise for me? Damn. You
could give a man a heart attack with that,” Mark said pulling her to him. She’d
found lingerie that had the garters that he loved. It fit her like a glove. He had to
untie it, which made him want her even more. He kissed her, wrapped her legs
around him and devoured her from head to toe. “I missed this,” he said as her
legs trembled with pleasure. “You don’t know how much I did,” Angel said as
he worked his way to her lips. They made love all night. “How the hell do I
hide how much I want you,” Mark asked. “Could wear turtlenecks,” Angel
teased. He kissed her again. “Dinner with the girls now just you and them,”
Mark suggested. “Maybe a good idea,” Angel said. “As long as I get to have
you for dessert,” Mark said. Angel laughed and kissed him.

18. 2
Chapter 3
A week or so went by before Angel saw Mark again. Every night, he called her
to see if there had been any more incidents with James. By Thursday night, she’d
finally relaxed into the single life. She had dinner out with friends one or two
nights that week, which were filled with questions about her and Mark. She put
them off saying they were just taking their time and were good friends. By the
time Friday rolled around, Angel couldn’t wait to see him.
“What do you mean you can’t come,” Angel asked. “My sister is in town. I
promised her,” Mark said. “I guess I’ll have to wait until tomorrow,” Angel said.
“I will try to get away. Maybe I can get her to go out with my brother the rest of
the weekend,” Mark said. “We need that long do we,” Angel teased. “Longer,
but we both have to work on Monday morning,” Mark said. They both laughed.
“I’ll call you in the morning,” Mark said. “I guess I will have to distract myself
tonight then,” Angel teased. “Don’t tempt me. Unless you want a 2am visitor,”
Mark replied. “Have fun tonight then. Maybe I’ll head to ladies night with the
girls,” Angel said. “Tomorrow then,” Mark said hanging up.
Angel got changed and headed out. She put on her sexiest outfit, called the girls
and met them at the bar. “Nice to see you out again,” Alicia said. “It’s not like I
am a freakin’ hermit,” Angel said. “Probably just the tall drink of water keeping
her busy,” Raven said. “Can we not discuss things that aren’t happening? This
is girl’s night after all,” Angel said. The waitress headed to the table. “These are
for the four of you. From the gentlemen at the bar,” she said. Raven turned
around. “You don’t want to know girl,” Raven said. “Thanks,” Angel replied.
“What’s the big deal?” “Your ex is over there with his friends,” Alicia said.
“Which ex,” Angel asked. “Tall and blonde,” Aubrey said. “Tell me it’s not who
I think,” Angel said. “Hey Angel,” a male voice said from behind her. Angel
turned around. “Hi Ty,” Angel said. She turned back around and took a sip of
her drink. “Not happy to see me eh,” Ty said. Angel ignored him. He walked
around to try to sit with her. “No room. Sorry,” Raven said. “Can I talk to you
then Angel,” he asked. “No,” Angel replied. He walked away keeping an eye on
her. “After what he pulled, why the hell would I,” Angel said. They had a few
more drinks, then Angel headed out. “My bubble bath is beckoning ladies,”
Angel said grabbing her purse and heading out. Ty noticed and followed her.
“Angel, just talk to me,” he asked. “I said no Ty. In male language that means
screw off,” Angel said. He walked up behind her as she was about to put the key
into her car. He pinned her to the car door and kissed her. “Now that I have
your attention,” he said. Angel slapped him across the face. “Leave me alone Ty
or I am going to get security,” Angel said. “You were the one who left. Why the
hell you so pissed,” he asked. “The fact that you are an ass isn’t enough,” Angel

19. 2
said trying for a second time to get into the car. “Now that you are a single
woman, you are available. Let me at least take you out one last time,” he said.
“Ty, I said no. That means no way in hell. Leave me alone,” Angel said. She
went to get into her car and he grabbed her wrists pinning her to the car. “And I
said different. You know damn well you want this,” Ty said. “No I don’t Ty.
Let go of me,” Angel said. She could hear footsteps and said a silent prayer that
it was Mark. “The lady said no. Get off her,” the voice said. “Mind your own
business. She’s mine,” Ty said. “Could have sworn she was mine,” the voice
said. Angel couldn’t see his face. The voice sounded familiar. Ty leaned in to
try to kiss her again and an arm came out of the darkness. “I said leave her
alone. That means you,” the voice said pushing him the other way. “You okay
baby,” the voice said walking towards her. It was Mark. “Thank god you’re
here,” Angel said. “Got out of the sisterly night early. Figured you would be
here with them. You okay,” Mark asked. Angel kissed him. “I take it that’s a
yes. I guess you really did miss me,” Mark said leaning Angel into her car. He
kissed her hard. “Follow me,” he said. “Whatever you say baby,” she replied.
They both left the parking lot in their cars. She drove about 15 minutes, then
pulled into a driveway. “Where are we,” Angel said. “Lock up. Come with
me,” Mark said. Angel locked the car, set the alarm and followed him hand in
hand. “Where are you taking me,” Angel asked. “Close your eyes,” he said. She
did, and he picked her up. “Okay. Open them,” he said. They were in a house.
“It’s really beautiful,” Angel said. He took her hand leading her to the living
room. Candles were lit, and champagne was in an ice bucket. “Wonder what
you would have done if I hadn’t been there,” Angel said. He kissed her and
walked her to the sofa. “What are you doing,” Angel said. “Romance,” he
replied popping the cork and pouring them champagne. “Mmmm. Delicious,”
Angel said. Something was in the glass. “What are you up to Mark,” Angel said.
“Look at it,” Mark said. It was a small key. “What might this be for,” Angel
asked. “Bring your champagne and follow me,” he said.
She followed him up the stairs to a large bedroom. There was a box on the bed.
“Key please,” he asked. He lit the candles in the room then opened the box and
handed it to her. “Open the lid,” he said as she sat down on the bed beside him.
He wrapped his arms around her. She opened the box and found a small black
velvet box inside. Her heart started to race. “What are you up to,” Angel said
removing the box from the wooden box. She opened it. He linked his fingers
with hers. The box was empty. “It’s empty Mark,” Angel said. He leaned her
back onto his chest. “Look on your hand,” he said. She looked to find a heart-
shaped diamond on her ring finger. “Oh my god Mark. What…..what’s going
on,” Angel asked. He held her tight. “When you are ready and only when you
are ready,” he said. “Mark, you can’t be doing this,” Angel said. “Please say
yes,” he said. “We just got together Mark. This is rushing it isn’t it,” Angel said.

20. 2
He kissed her. She leaned back onto the bed. He wrapped his arms around her
and kissed her over and over. “This is too soon,” Angel said. He kissed her
again and pulled his dress shirt off. “It isn’t too soon. I don’t want to be without
you. I don’t know how else to say it,” Mark said. They made love then curled
up together. “Say yes,” he whispered in her ear. “Not now. Give me time,”
Angel said. “Please tell me you love me,” he said. “I care about you. I do, I just
can’t,” Angel said. He kissed her again and touched her in all the right places.
They made love again and again that night.
The next morning, she woke up and noticed a satin robe on the counter. She
pulled it on and headed down the steps. She followed the scent of coffee. She
slipped into the kitchen and right behind him. “Good morning. Sleep well,”
Mark asked. “Yes,” Angel said. She couldn’t figure out how that slipped out of
her mouth. She poured them both a coffee and sat down in his lap. “Did you
mean what I think you mean,” Mark asked. “As long as you promise we are
taking our time, and no pressure. If you can promise me that,” Angel said. He
kissed her and leaned her against the table. “Say the words I want to hear,” he
said untying the belt of the robe. A hand slipped between her legs. He kissed
her chest, her stomach. “As long as you give me time,” Angel said. He made
love to her on the table. After he wrapped his arms around her and took her to
the sofa. He laid her down on her back and kissed her. “Say it,” he asked.
“Then…..yes,” Angel said. He kissed her again. She wasn’t sure if it was the
right thing to do or not. All she knew was it felt right. They had all the time in
the world to get to know each other. She wasn’t about to jump into anything, but
she was really getting feelings for him. The next evening, she headed home. She
slipped the ring off, and put it on her other hand. She went inside, and called a
friend. “Can you run a check for me,” Angel asked.
The next morning, Angel headed into the shower and the phone rang. “I sent
you an email with the check you asked for. Might want to look at it. He a new
client,” her friend asked. “You could say that,” Angel said. “Check it out. Not
exactly on the up and up,” her friend said hanging up. She logged into her email
and read through the information. “Married twice……accused but not found
guilty of harassment. Possession….” She was in shock. She went and got
dressed and showered, then headed into work. She couldn’t get the email out of
her mind.
“So you and Ty eh,” Alicia said. “No. Definitely no. Thank god for Mark,”
Angel said. “He saved me from having to unleash the can of whoopass,” Angel
said. Angel tried to get the tension from her shoulders by massaging them
herself. “What the hell girl. Bling and a half! Where did that come from,” Raven
asked. She’d forgotten to take it off before work. “I know that’s real. Look at it,”
Alicia said pulling Angel’s arm. “Okay. Who is he? Why don’t we know about

21. 2
him and what are you going to do about Mark,” Raven asked. “Can we talk
about this later? I have stuff to get done,” Angel said trying to get out of the
topic. “You are definitely spilling at lunch. Why aren’t you wearing it on the
right finger,” Aubrey asked. “I’ll talk to you guys at lunch. Really, I have a
telephone conference in a few,” Angel said. They headed out. She knew it
would be added to the office gossip. She called her officer friend. “Details,”
Angel asked. “His first wife left him. Teenager thing. He harassed her over and
over. She had to get a temporary restraining order. Once he met number two,
they lifted it. He married her, and there were a few drug related problems. They
both were found with possession. He left her and the divorce was final 6 months
ago. She came to him to try again and an altercation ensued which both of them
were thrown in the slammer over night for. The only other thing was public
drunkenness. Claimed it was because of some chick. All in all, not a good
candidate for a business loan,” her friend said. “Thanks again. Will let you
know if I need anything else,” Angel said. She took a deep breath. “Not as bad
as it seems. Could be worse,” Angel thought to herself.
By the time lunch rolled around the girls had grabbed something for them all,
then brought it into Angel’s office and closed the door. “So spill. Who is he,”
Aubrey asked. “Mark’s going to freak when he hears about this. He’ll be
crushed. You are getting back with James aren’t you,” Raven asked. “No. The
exact opposite. James will be the one kicking himself,” Angel said eating her
salad. “Don’t tell me……..Mark,” Alicia said. They all looked at each other.
Angel was silent and finished her salad. “Spill sister,” Aubrey said. “He saved
me from Ty last night, then took me to his house. Champagne, candles and a
black velvet box,” Angel said. “Are you serious? You haven’t even been on an
alone date with him. What the hell. Nothing like rushing,” Raven said. “We
have been talking and meeting for coffee for the past 7 months. The night I
moved in to my new place he was there. Hence why I haven’t really been
around too much,” Angel said. “Why didn’t you tell us,” they asked. “James is
friends with you all too. I don’t want him to know. Who knows what would
happen then,” Angel said. “So put that ring right girl. Wear it with pride,”
Alicia said as Angel slipped it onto her ring finger. “Perfect,” Aubrey said. They
chatted some more then headed back to work. By the end of the day, Angel was
exhausted and headed home. She got there and flowers were at the concierge
desk. “They are from the tall dark-haired gentleman,” the concierge said. Angel
took them and headed upstairs.
For my fiancée, from your fiancée.
Angel smiled and put them onto her counter. She took in the aroma. “Sterling
roses. Perfect,” Angel said. She did her workout, then showered and made
some dinner. About 7 that night, Mark knocked on the door. She answered it.

22. 2
“Hey there,” Mark said. “Hey yourself. Come on in,” Angel said. He picked her
up wrapping her legs around him. She kissed him. “So how was your day,” he
asked. “Not bad. Quiet. Yours,” Angel asked. “Quit teasing. I know your girls
must have said something,” Mark said. He kissed her again and leaned her into
the wall. “They said you have good taste,” Angel said. “That I do,” he replied as
he walked into the bedroom and laid her on the bed. Her computer screen was
on. She prayed the screensaver would snap on. He kissed her all over, then
teased the one spot that was her weakness. “Shit. You are damn good,” Angel
said as he moved up to kiss her. He made love to her like he hadn’t before.
“And to know this is all yours,” Mark said. “Say it again,” Angel said. “All
yours,” he replied. They curled up together and fell asleep.
In the morning, she woke up to find him at the computer. “Shit,” she said to
herself. “So when were you going to tell me you did this,” he asked. “It’s
something that I got into the habit of doing before I met James. I did it for my
girlfriends. I wanted to know,” Angel said. “Why didn’t you ask me then,” he
said. “I told you all about this when we first met. Why did you have to do this?
Don’t trust me,” he asked. She pulled on her robe. “Of course I do. I just
wanted to know,” Angel said. She walked out of the room and hopped into the
shower. When she came out, he was in the doorway with a towel. “You really
don’t trust me do you,” he asked. “I do. Why do you think I don’t. What would
I find out if I dug more Mark? I don’t need to dig. The rest is up to you to tell
me,” Angel said brushing past him to get changed for work. She pulled on her
suit and he came up behind her as she was finishing her makeup. He leaned her
against the counter. “What time you have to be in,” he asked. “9:30,” Angel
said. He checked his watch. He unzipped her skirt. “What are you up to Mark,”
Angel asked. He kissed her neck and slid her skirt off and his hand up her
blouse. He made love to her then they got dressed and headed off to work. “I’ll
call you later. Have plans tonight,” Angel said. He kissed her again leaning her
into her car. “I know what you can do later,” he said. “Did that this morning
already,” Angel said getting into her car. She slid the convertible roof down.
“I’ll see you tonight,” Angel said pulling out and heading for the highway.
She relaxed that week at work. The closer it got to Friday, the more the idea
she’d conjured up seemed like a good one. “So what you up to tonight girl,”
Alicia asked. “Have plans tonight. What you guys doing? Guy hunting again,”
Angel asked. “Yeah. Raven has her love potion darts ready and waiting,” Alicia
said as Raven walked by. “And sharpened,” she replied. “Why don’t you and
Mark come meet us for dinner on Saturday night. We’re going to that new place
that you wanted to go to,” Alicia said. “Add a plus two to that one,” Angel said.
“How’s married life,” Aubrey asked jokingly. “Fine. You guys have a good
weekend. Happy hunting,” Angel said. They laughed and headed out. Angel
called Mark. “I have an idea for tonight if you want,” Angel said. “With

23. 2
you…..anything,” Mark replied. “Tonight is going to be 100% truth night. You
can ask me any question and I can ask you any question and we have to answer
truthfully,” Angel said. “How many bottles of wine we going to need to live
through that,” Mark asked. “Three should do it, but I have one at home,” Angel
said. “Whatever my lady wishes,” Mark said. “See you around 8 then,” Angel
asked. “Looking forward to it,” Mark replied. Angel headed home at the same
time as always and worked out, had dinner, then had a bubble bath until Mark
got there.
She slipped on her satin robe and lingerie and answered the door. “Well hello
beautiful,” Mark said as he walked in. He kissed her hard. “I missed you this
week,” he said. “Me too. Was kind of busy most nights though. Almost
finished my book,” Angel said. She walked towards the kitchen and he wrapped
his arm around her waist. “New,” he asked. “Mmmm,” she replied. He kissed
her neck. “Not until after,” Angel said. “And if I told you it wouldn’t wait,” he
asked. His hand slid down. “No fair,” Angel said. “I knew,” he whispered in
her ear. She turned to face him and he picked her up, wrapping her legs around
him. “Not fair. After,” Angel said. “Appetizer first,” he joked. He kissed her
then laid her on the sofa. “Don’t start that,” Angel said as she knew just what he
was going to do. He pulled her legs towards him. “Shit. Totally……. not…….
damn…… not fair……..shit Mark,” Angel said. He worked his way back up and
kissed her. “So first question would be,” he asked. His hand massaged her.
“Shit,” she said. He kissed her then got up to grab their wine for them.
“Totally not fair,” Angel said sitting up on the sofa. “So I guess I am going first,”
he said. Angel sat on the lazy boy. “Ok then. Why did you do that check,” he
asked. “Seemed too perfect. Wanted to know about the imperfections,” Angel
replied. “So why did you never tell me you’d been married before?” “I didn’t
think it was important. Me and you are what’s important. It was the past. I
want to leave it there,” Mark said. “What really caused the breakup between
you and James?” “We were together for years. It was great in the beginning, but
as time went on, we grew far apart….like other planets. That’s why I wanted to
take my time. I don’t want to do that again. He wanted to live together and he
didn’t want to get married. He started cheating the last 2 years. The first one I
forgave him for, but things hadn’t been the same since. No contact of that kind
in any way for 2 years. He found it somewhere else. I did the right thing and
got myself away. Still worried about his temper, but I think everything will be
ok,” Angel said. “Have you ever cheated?” “When I was a teenager, once. Was
torture. Vowed to never ever do it again. Too much stress. I never would as
long as I have someone who makes me happy,” Mark said.
“Okay, here’s a good one. When was your first boyfriend?” “19. Jason. Blond
hair and blue eyes. The surfer type. Athletic and used to run track together.

24. 2
When did you do drugs, why and what kind,” Angel asked sipping her wine. “I
guess I promised to answer them didn’t I,” he asked. Angel nodded. “Coke and
weed. In the old kind of job I had they went hand in hand. That’s why I got a
new job. It started out as a party, and ended when one of the guys I was friends
with almost died. It was years ago. I wouldn’t go near that stuff now. I
promised everyone I knew that that night was the end, and I stuck to it,” he said.
“You ever done anything like that you think I should know about?” Tried coke
once, and hated it. Never did anything else. Stuck to my favorite wines instead.
Cheaper,” Angel said laughing. He laughed along with her. “How many
brothers and sisters,” she asked. “One of each. Older sister, younger brother.
Not really had much contact with them. We are all at opposite sides of the
country. They are up north. I see them at Christmas mostly. They want to meet
you by the way,” Mark said. “Really,” Angel replied. She filled up their wine
glasses. “How many hearts have you broken in your life,” Mark asked. “Three,”
Angel said. “Damn. You are a man-eater,” he teased. “One when I was
younger, one before James, and James. How many women have you been with,”
Angel asked wishing she’d never asked that. Must have been the wine. “5,”
Mark said. “Including you that is. What about you?” “6,” Angel replied.
“Including you. Never really started the whole dating thing until I really
finished high school.”
They spent the entire night getting closer and closer. “Favorite Food,” he asked.
“Lobster with angel hair pasta.” “Lobster Bisque.” “Favorite dessert?” “Banana
Chocolate Cake.” “You,” Mark replied. “That doesn’t count. Cheater,” Angel
said teasing him. He got up and grabbed her from the chair. “Need a little
dessert sample,” Mark said. “Down boy. It’s only 10:30,” Angel said. “Then you
have to slip the robe off,” he teased. She did. She bent over in front of him and
refilled their glasses. He pulled her to him. “Cheers,” Angel said. “Tease,” he
replied. “Dream vacation. Where,” he asked. “Turtle Island,” Angel replied.
“Waikiki,” Mark said. “First thing you noticed about me when we met,” Angel
asked. “Other than the crystal blue eyes, the tan and the hot outfit…the curves,”
he said. “Which came first,” Angel asked. “The eyes and the smile,” he said.
“You?” “Your eyes and smile. Didn’t notice the rest until we headed to the
dance floor that night,” Angel said. He pulled her onto his lap and she wrapped
her legs around him. “Favorite part,” he said kissing her chest. “Do we have to
go there,” Angel asked. He nodded. She kissed him. “Good enough hint,” she
asked. “Nope,” he replied. “Got three faves,” she said. “Really. Well then,” he
said. “Your lips,” he kissed her hard. “Tongue,” she said as he kissed her even
harder. “And the other one…I guess you can guess,” Angel said sliding her
hand down his torso. “Couldn’t entice you into a break could I,” he said
whispering in her ear as he kissed and nibbled her neck. “Nope,” Angel said.
She could tell how hot she’d made him. She wanted this to continue. She was
determined. “Favorite part of me,” Angel asked. “Let me show you,” he said.

25. 2
He kissed her. Then moved down her torso to her breasts. Then down even
more. One lick and he knew she wouldn’t last much longer. “My favorite part,”
he said kissing her. Her heart started racing. “I think you’ve made your point,”
Angel said trying to move back.
She grabbed her wine and sipped it. He laid down on her stomach. “X rated or
not,” he asked. “Damn. Like you have to ask,” Angel replied. “Favorite
position,” he asked. “You already know that answer,” Angel said. “That’s really
your favorite,” he asked. “Your turn. Your favorite,” she asked. “Don’t get me
thinking about it. Same as yours,” he said. “Favorite slow song,” Angel asked.
“Nice change of topic. Secret Garden by Bruce Springsteen with Wonderful
Tonight by Eric Clapton a close second. You,” he asked. “Somebody’s Me by
Enrique Iglesias with Wonderful Tonight a close second. Gotta love the live
version,” Angel said. “If you could be anywhere in the world, where would it
be,” Mark asked. “On a private beach. Nobody around. Quiet, peaceful and
serene. Waterfall in the background. Hot stone massage. You,” Angel asked.
“Could anyone ever top that? Damn. Curled up in a cabin. Roaring fire.
Sipping hot chocolate as we make love under blankets by the fire,” Mark said.
“One track mind,” Angel joked. He kissed her. He slipped her glass from her
hand and put it on the counter. “Enough with the questions. Bed,” he said. She
pulled on his belt. “Follow me,” Angel said. The rain had started outside. She
got up and headed outside. “Where are you going? It’s pouring,” Mark said.
She sat on the table. “Change your mind,” Angel asked. “Hell no,” he said.
“Well then. The warm snuggling can come after,” Angel said. She slipped her
robe off. He walked over to her. “Now what were you saying about favorites,”
Mark asked. He pulled off the bottoms to her lingerie. She leaned back on the
table knowing what was to come next. “Been waiting for this all night,” Mark
said. He kissed her stomach, then moved a little lower. “All mine,” he said.
Angel just basked in the passion of it. It’s like it was his last meal. He moved
back up and kissed her as she pulled his belt off. “You sure. Out here. Anyone
can see you,” he said. She pulled him closer to her and undid his dress pants.
“Us,” she replied. They had sex on the table, the chaise then against the railing.
“Totally…..all…..your……fault,” Mark said. “Could have made it worse,” Angel
said. “Hell no,” Mark replied. Angel nodded. He picked her up and carried her
inside to the fireplace. He grabbed the blanket from the sofa and turned the
fireplace on. “Like what,” he said wrapping her legs around him. “Ask the
question I know you are dying to ask,” Angel said. “Would the answer be yes,”
he asked. Angel nodded. They made love in the blankets by the roaring fire.
She curled up in his arms. “Seriously,” he asked. “College. Someone tried
something on me. Nothing ever came of it and she denied it ever happened. We
were drunk. Can’t ask for much,” Angel said. “All mine now,” Mark said.
“Definitely,” Angel replied. “Why do you look like you have one last question,”

26. 2
Angel asked. “Could go snoop and figure out the answer myself,” Mark said.
“Top drawer. Side dresser,” Angel said. “Have to remind me of that,” Mark
said.
They grabbed their clothes from outside and brought them in, hanging them up
to dry. “Where’s your ring,” he asked. “Bathroom. I took it off before my
bubble bath,” Angel said. Mark got up, grabbed it and put it on her finger. “You
know if I have to wear one so do you,” Angel said. “With honor,” Mark replied.
He kissed her and they curled up together falling asleep.
The next morning, Mark got up and Angel wasn’t in bed. He went into the main
part of the condo, and no sign of her. He made coffee and sat down outside. She
came in a little while later with breakfast. “Had to go to the grocery store,”
Angel said. “I guess you slept well then,” Mark asked. She kissed him. “I take
that as a yes,” Mark replied. Angel made them breakfast then they sat down on
the balcony. “So what do you have planned for tonight,” Mark asked. “Alicia
wants to do dinner with us if you want,” Angel said. “Depends. What you
gonna be wearing,” he asked. “I’ll call her and tell her it’s a yes,” Angel said.
“That good eh,” Mark asked. “You may not let me leave,” Angel said. He kissed
her. They finished breakfast and cleaned up.
“Have a surprise for you,” Mark said leaning against her as she did the dishes.
“I know what that is,” Angel said. “No. Something else,” he replied. “That too
eh,” Angel said. He kissed her neck hard and took her hand. “Found something
in that drawer of yours,” he said. “Really,” Angel replied. “Maybe I should call
her and tell her we may not make it for 7pm,” Angel said. He picked her up
wrapping her legs around him. He walked into the bedroom and laid her on the
bed, pulling her sundress off. “So what is it that you wanted to show me,” Angel
teased. “Interesting. Nice choices, but what are these doing in there,” Mark
asked as she pulled out her regulation police handcuffs. “Gift from a friend at
the police department. The key for them is on my key ring,” Angel said. He
cuffed her to the bed. “Better get the key before we forget to get it,” Angel said.
He did then came back. “My playground today,” he said. Angel heard music.
“What are you planning Mark,” Angel asked. He pulled out the massage oil
he’d put in his jacket the night before. He kissed her chest. He took his time,
making sure to cover every inch of her body. Not one spot went without his kiss
or his tongue. “Enough,” Angel said. He went back to her warmth and teased
her to submission. “Not fair,” Angel said. He kissed her hard and undid the
cuffs. He pinned her down and made love to her. By the time they finished,
they both needed a nap. Angel looked at the clock. She grabbed the phone.
“What time did you say dinner was? We’ll be there. Order me a martini and one
for Mark,” Angel said hanging up. “Why a martini,” he asked. “It’s 3. We have
4 hours, Angel said slipping the cuffs on Mark. “What the hell. I thought you

27. 2
were tired,” he said. “Not too tired for this. Never,” Angel said. She started her
tease, as would eventually be called the head to toe. “Okay. I get it. Has to
be……fair… Shit Angel…..I don’t…….I don’t want to…….. holy crap,” Mark
said. Angel undid the cuffs, and they made the best use of their 3 hours.
Just getting ready took another full hour and they finally showed. “And look at
that. Only 15 minutes late,” Alicia said. “Had to find parking. Chill,” Angel
said sitting down with the ladies. They’d all brought dates for once. Raven
brought Tony, an old friend. “Alicia brought Timothy, someone she’d been after
for months, and Aubrey brought Ray. He was an old beau of Angel’s. They
were friends, but seeing him again irked Angel to no end. Angel introduced
Mark to the guys and sipped her martini. “Perfect night out. They even have
entertainment tonight,” Raven said. “I wonder who,” Mark said going to search
for some info with the guys. “I guarantee we are all going to be as happy as
Angel by the end of the night,” Alicia said. “Don’t tell me. That’s why you
brought him isn’t it? He’s working in the main room. God no,” Angel said.
Mark and the guys headed back to the table. “They’re splitting the room girls on
one side and guys on the other,” Mark said. Angel shot a look at Ray. “But you
know. Like I told you. The guys can stay with their ladies if they want, or the
ladies can slip in with the guys,” Ray said. He slid a hand on Angel’s leg. She
grabbed it and pushed it away. He put it back then moved it upwards. He
looked at her and then licked his fingers. “I wonder if our table’s ready,” Angel
said getting up. “I’ll come with you,” Ray said. They headed to the maître d'.
“You have got to stop that crap. You are here with Aubrey. If the only reason
you are here is to cause a problem, then leave,” Angel said. He kissed her and
pinned her to the wall. “I need you tonight. Do like you used to,” he said. “No.
I am engaged. Screw off and stay away or I will sic him on you,” Angel said.
“When is the table going to be ready,” Angel asked. “Ready when you are
ma’am,” the waitress said. Angel started walking back to the table. “Ready
when you are ladies and gentlemen,” the maître d' said. He brought them to
their table. Angel sat beside Mark and as far away from Ray as possible. They
ordered dinner and chatted as Angel shot nasty looks at Ray. By the time the
entertainment started at the end of dinner, Angel wanted to head home. “I guess
you know Ray,” Mark said. “A long time ago that I wish had never happened,”
Angel said. “Next Friday,” he said. Angel nodded. They sat with the girls a
while then headed to the other side. Angel found somewhere for them to stand,
then they leaned, watching the show. “Let’s go back over. Don’t want them to
get pissed,” Mark said. Angel wrapped his hands around her and strategically
placed them. “Or we could stay here,” Mark said sliding a hand down her skirt.
Angel grabbed something from her purse and walked toward the stage. “No
you aren’t. You do it,” he said as she pushed him to the edge. The second act
came out and tag teamed Mark. By the time he got up, he was definitely ready to

28. 2
leave. They motioned for Angel to come tip them. “Now that I want to see,”
Mark said kissing her. As soon as the ladies were finished with Angel, they
headed into the other room to say good night. Ray was on stage. He walked
towards her and she turned and kissed Mark. He took her hand and pulled her
away to the stage. “Let go or else,” Angel said grabbing Alicia’s hand. She put
them together, waved goodbye to the girls and left.
Angel and Mark headed outside. They made it two steps to the car and he
picked her up wrapping her legs around him. “Good thing we are beside the
water,” Mark said. He headed for the beach, piggybacking Angel. He laid her
on the beach and kissed her. “What happened to home,” Angel said. “Oh I’ll get
you home alright,” Mark said pulling her g-string off. “Not here,” Angel said.
He kept going. “Shit. I want you too, but not here. Somewhere private,” Angel
said. She squirmed away from him and headed for the rocks. For the private
area of beach they’d found weeks ago. He caught her and pinned her into the
rocks. She wrapped her legs around him and kissed him. He pulled his dress
shirt and dress pants off then pulled at Angel’s dress. “You know….you…..
were …..right. God I want you. Not waiting until we get home,” Mark said.
They had sex against the rocks, on the sand. Before they got cold, they got
dressed and headed back to the car. There was a note on it.
I know what you did. How could you. I will get you back and if
you think it was bad before - J
Angel dropped it and got in the car. Mark picked it up, folded it and put it in
his pocket. He drove Angel home. She didn’t say a word. “Talk to me. Explain
this,” Mark said. “I can’t talk about it. Just avoiding him from now on. No
questions,” Angel said. “One. What does he mean bad before,” Mark said.
“That’s why it took me so long to leave. Had to make an escape plan. I was
lucky to be able to go out at all. I was there every damn day and night and had
to be his toy to play with. That’s all I ever was. A damn possession,” Angel said
tears streaming from her blue eyes. “That will never ever happen again. Not
with us and not with that sick son of a bitch,” Mark said grabbing the phone.
“Hey Andy. Can you do me a favor? Yeah. Perfect buddy. If you……
definitely,” Mark said hanging up. “What are you doing? Don’t provoke him in
any way. He’ll find me you know,” Angel said. “He won’t do anything. I’m not
leaving until Andy gets him in custody,” Mark said. “Cop,” Angel asked. Mark
nodded. She curled up in Mark’s arms. “I promise to take care of you baby.
Forever. Don’t ever doubt that,” Mark said.
A few hours later, the phone rang and woke them both up. “He’s in custody.
Fax me over the note. Restraining order in effect as soon as she signs it. Want

29. 2
me to bring it tonight,” Andy asked. “Yeah. You got the address from my
book,” Mark asked. “Got it. See you soon bro,” Andy said hanging up. “What’s
happening,” Angel said rubbing her eyes. “In custody, restraining order on its
way. They need you to sign it, and it’s valid for 6 months. Fax machine,” Mark
asked. Angel pointed to the kitchen counter. He faxed it in and sat back down
with Angel. “Just like I promised,” Mark said. Angel climbed into his lap and
kissed him. “Okay. I didn’t tell you,” Angel said. “You have to tell me this stuff
if you want me to protect you. I love you baby,” he said. He kissed her and
carried her to bed. “Lay down. We’ll be okay tonight. From now on. I got
you,” Mark said kissing her. He wrapped his arms around her and held her
close. The phone rang an hour or so later. “An officer is here to see Miss Heart,”
the concierge said. “Send him up. His name is Andy right,” Mark asked. “Yes
sir,” he replied.
Andy came up to the condo and Mark instantly opened the door. “Hey buddy,”
Andy said. “Hey yourself,” Mark said shaking Andy’s hand. “So this is her is it?
The one you’ve been talking about for months,” Andy said noticing Angel
coming out of the bedroom. “Andy, this is Angel. Angel, this is my friend
Andy,” Mark said as Angel shook Andy’s hand. “Why didn’t you tell me she
was a hottie? You would have had some serious competition my friend,” Andy
said. “Just give me the papers,” Mark said. Angel went into the kitchen and
poured Andy, Mark and herself a coffee. “Thank you beautiful,” Mark said as
Angel kissed him. “Okay lovebirds. Two things. Have to get you to sign this,
then have to take a statement. Angel went to sign and Andy saw the ring. He
looked over at Mark. “So when were you going to tell me about the rock,” Andy
asked. “Where does she sign,” Mark said. Angel signed the papers. “So, what
happened tonight. Mark said something about a note. Can you give me details,”
Andy asked. They went through the details of the night, then Angel told him a
detailed history of her and James. “Lucky to have Mark around. Trust me. He’s
like the bodyguard of all bodyguards,” Andy said. “Counting on it,” Angel said.
They sat around and chatted a while, then Andy headed back to the station and
Angel and Mark went back to bed.
The next morning, Angel and Mark both slept in. They woke up, had breakfast
then headed out for a walk on the beach. “You seem better this morning,” Mark
said wrapping his arms around Angel. “Don’t have to constantly be looking
over my shoulder. Definitely better,” Angel said. “I have an idea,” Mark said.
“I know what you are thinking. After the wedding, I’ll move in,” Angel said.
“And a general time would be,” Mark asked nibbling her neck. “New year’s eve
next year,” Angel said. “That’s a long time away. Almost 15 months,” Mark
said. “Lots of time. We don’t have to stress. We’ll do it on the beach,” Angel
said. “No big fancy thing eh,” Mark said. “Nope. Just us, some family, friends
and that’s it,” Angel said. “I love the way you think,” Mark said. He took her
hand and they headed back into the condo.

30. 2
“So we have an entire afternoon. What you want to do,” Mark asked. “Sappy
movies and cuddling on the sofa. I’ll even throw in Crank for you,” Angel said.
“One of the best,” Mark said. “It’s only fair. My movies mixed in with yours,”
Angel said. He kissed her. “Always the fair one. So…in the mood for the
question and answers again or are we leaving that for Friday,” Mark asked.
“Ray? Not even worthy of the oxygen to talk about,” Angel said. “So tell me,”
Mark said as they headed into the condo. They sat down on the sofa and Mark
grabbed the wine. “Went out with friends one night. He jumped in my lap to
get my attention, then we hung out for a while. He made a move on me, and I
walked away. Didn’t think of him in that way. He’s supposedly been asking
about me ever since. As I said. It’s really nothing,” Angel said. Mark kissed her.
“I believe you. What was up with him trying to pull you away though,” Mark
asked. “He figured he’d have his chance, and I shot him down. That’s all,”
Angel said. “Did you tell him you were taken,” Mark asked. “He saw the ring.
He knew and didn’t care. Just like always,” Angel said. “Meaning,” Mark
asked. “Meaning he has a habit of going after married or otherwise spoken for
women,” Angel replied. Mark kissed her.
“I’m not going to be able to talk you in to an earlier date am I,” Mark asked.
“What were you thinking of,” Angel said noticing he was changing the topic.
“Valentine’s,” he replied. “That’s only 6 or 7 months away,” Angel said. He
kissed her again. “Could still be quiet. Just outside. Here,” he said. “Why the
rush,” Angel asked. “Honestly, I can’t wait to wake up with you every morning.
To have my friend with me at all times. To come home and see you every night,”
Mark said. “You know I will still work right,” Angel said. “And if you changed
your mind, you could. You wouldn’t have to worry about James anymore, and
we could be together. No having to rush home to get changed or anything,”
Mark said. “As long as you don’t expect me to spend my life waiting for you, or
waiting on you hand and foot, I’ll think about it. I don’t want to go back to the
way things were between James and I. Especially not with you,” Angel said. He
kissed her again, picking her up and carrying her to bed. “I see what you are
thinking,” Angel said. “Can you feel what I am thinking,” Mark asked.
“Definitely,” Angel said as he kissed her deeply. They made love, then curled up
watching their movies. “Besides Mark. There are so many things you still don’t
know about me,” Angel said. “Like what,” Mark asked. “Friday,” Angel
replied. He kissed her hard again. “Damn I love Fridays,” he said.

31. 2
Chapter 4
The next week or so went by as always. This time, Angel felt a little more secure
knowing that James wouldn’t be able to bother her. When she came home
Thursday night, the concierge handed her a package. Angel knew to be careful.
She opened it slowly. There was no return address. She opened it and found a
teddy bear with a knife through the heart. She automatically called the
concierge. “Who dropped this off,” Angel asked. “Courier. I have the return
slip if you need it,” he said. “Bring it up. I am going to check it out then give it
to you to hand over to the police,” Angel said. Within 15 minutes, the concierge
was at the door. The reply address was an unfamiliar one. It was a totally
opposite end of town. She knew who it was from. She didn’t have to guess.
“Just hold onto it and give it to them when they get here,” Angel said. She
closed the door and drew herself a bubble bath. Within about an hour, she
started getting a bad feeling. “Rodney, do you have one of those scanner
things,” Angel asked her friend on the police force. “Hell yeah. Be right up,” he
said. They scanned the apartment and found mini cams and microphones. All
of a sudden staying at the condo didn’t seem like a good idea. “Can you run
prints for me on them? I wanna see who did this,” Angel said. Rodney nodded
and headed out. Angel picked up the phone and called Mark.
An hour or two later, Rodney called her back at the condo. “Ran the prints.
They’re in the system, but I don’t think you want to know,” Rodney said. “Tell
me it’s James and I will be fine,” Angel said. “Bingo, but one cam had another
print that we got a hit on. I really don’t want to be the one to tell you this.”
“Where was that one,” Angel asked. “Terrace,” he replied. “It isn’t…..tell me it
isn’t,” Angel said. “Yeah, but that one was definitely in plain sight. It even had
the flashing light when it was night time remember,” Rodney said. “I’ll talk to
you later. Get someone over here to figure out how James got in,” Angel said.
Friday came and Mark started looking forward to it. At the end of the day, he
grabbed them some take-out and headed to Angel’s place. When he got there, a
package was at the desk for him. He opened it. The mini camera with a note:
Explain this
He knew he hadn’t done a thing wrong, but headed upstairs. When he got there,
she was nowhere in sight. There was no answer. He went back downstairs.
“She said she was gone for the weekend,” the concierge said. “Thanks a
million,” Mark said. He sat in his car and shook his head. “I set up cams on
everyone’s balconies. That was my first paid gig for the company. Why the hell
did she take off,” he said to himself. He went to every place he could think of to

32. 2
find her. No sign of her. He called Raven. “What did you do? No I haven’t
seen her...She said for me to meet her tonight, but I have no idea where the hell it
is,” Raven said. “Tell me. I’ll go find her,” Mark said. Raven gave him the
address and he programmed it into his navigational system. He showed up at
the same time as Raven was due to be there. He saw her turn around and go
inside a bar.
He parked and went in behind her. He searched the crowd and couldn’t find
her. “Perfect,” he thought. “Can I get a martini,” he asked the bartender.
“$8.50,” she said. “Keep the change.” He was scouring the bar for her. He
spotted her in a corner booth. She was with Alicia. He walked towards her and
she got up. He noticed Aubrey at the booth too. He followed Angel. He took a
gulp of his martini. “What the hell are you doing here,” Angel asked. “I am
going to explain if I have to drag you out of here to do it,” Mark said. “Take it
back then. I don’t want to be with you if you can’t trust me,” Angel said trying
to pull the engagement ring off. “Don’t you dare. I set up cams for every unit in
that building. How the hell do you think I knew how to get there. It was my
first paying gig for the company. Everyone has one. As for anything else they
found, I had nothing to do with that. It looked like they were linked into my
cable I put in for the outside cam. They put them there for the security system.
You haven’t noticed that when you go outside a small light goes on? I set that up
for every damn unit,” Mark said getting closer and closer to Angel. “They were
everywhere. Three in the bedroom as well as microphones. Three in the
bathroom, two in the kitchen. Two in the TV room. I don’t want to be there. I
don’t feel safe anymore,” Angel said. “Then why didn’t you call me or Andy,”
Mark asked wrapping his arms around Angel. “When I found out about the
print on the camera,” Angel said. Mark kissed her hard. “You have to trust me.
Please,” Mark said. He kissed her again and they headed to her table. “I told
you they’d make up,” Alicia said. Raven came in behind her. “So you found her
did you,” Raven said. “Would you guys mind if I took her home,” Mark asked.
“As long as you don’t tape it,” Aubrey said. “Ha ha. Very funny,” Mark said
hand in hand with Angel.
They headed to the door, and out to the car. “You didn’t bring your car,” Mark
asked. “Alicia picked me up,” Angel replied. They got to the car and Mark
kissed Angel. “Can I take you home,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. They
hopped in and headed to her place. “Better idea. Your place,” Angel said.
“Ooh. Mixing it up are we. Okay then,” Mark said. They pulled into the drive
and parked at the door. They headed inside and straight for the TV room. Mark
warmed up the take-out and brought it in, while Angel opened the wine. “I still
don’t know why you thought I was like that. I could never ever,” Mark said.
Angel kissed him. “So I guess dinner is waiting,” he said returning the kiss and
laying her down on the sofa. “I guess so,” Angel said. He kissed her from head

33. 2
to toe, grabbing a blanket and slipping both their clothes off and to the ground.
“Don’t ever doubt me,” he said. “That is unless you need me to remind you how
much I want you every minute of every day of every month of every year until
we die,” Mark said. “Let me check my calendar on that one,” Angel teased. He
kissed her again. “Hungry,” he asked. Angel nodded.
He warmed up dinner, and came back to find Angel curled up by the fireplace.
He threw some firewood in, and started a fire, then pulled his jeans off and
curled back up with Angel. They had some dinner then worked on bottle
number two of wine. “Okay. Here’s a good one. One place you’ve always
wanted to but never have done it,” Mark asked. “One track mind,” Angel
replied. “Only on you,” Mark said wrapping her legs around him. “I know
what you are thinking. Cut it out,” Angel said. “Where. Tell me,” he said. “In a
garden. On a bench or the warm grass after a rainstorm. Or,” Angel said. “God
don’t get worse,” Mark said. “Could have while you were watching the show
last weekend,” Angel said. “Are you serious? Did you see how many people,”
Mark said. Angel quieted him with a kiss. “You asked,” she whispered. She
could tell he had the reaction she wanted. “God. What I was thinking sounds so
G rated compared to that,” Mark said. “Where,” Angel asked. “On a boat, in the
water, on the deck. Anyone could see,” Mark said. “That could be done,” Angel
whispered. “Tease,” he said kissing her hard. They made love. “Or,” Angel
teased mid way through. “God don’t let it get worse,” Mark whispered in her
ear. “On your desk at work. Middle of the day. Trench coat,” Angel said.
“Would be one hell of a lunch break,” Mark said. “Learned a few things you
have no idea about,” Angel teased. “Like what,” Mark asked kissing her neck.
“Like could come give you a lap dance at work. Locking the door, drawing the
blinds,” Angel whispered. They finished together. “You wouldn’t really would
you,” Mark asked kissing her chest. “I guess we’ll see won’t we,” Angel said.
He curled her into his arms and bathed her in kisses. They trailed downwards.
“I guarantee there will never be a dull moment,” Angel said. He licked.
“Guarantee,” Mark said. “You should be a damn teacher on that,” Angel said.
“Nope. Not sharing. Mine,” Mark said devouring her.
By the time morning hit, the fire was out, and they were curled up in Mark’s big
comfy bed. Angel woke to Mark’s kisses on her. “Can’t get enough can you,”
Angel said. Her muscles tensed. He moved up and kissed her. They made love
over and over, then had breakfast outside on his terrace. “We worked up one
hell of an appetite didn’t we,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. “Wondering why I
bought such a huge place,” he asked. “Definitely. There must be what four
bedrooms,” Angel said. “I’m sure we can think of something to do with them,”
Mark said. “It was a steal really. A friend of mine’s parents owned it. They
passed away and he sold it to me for $5,000. He said they didn’t need the money
and that he wanted someone to enjoy it. It’s on the beach, it’s close to you and it

34. 2
has that garden you were talking about last night. Gazebo and roses,” Mark
said. “Really,” Angel said walking over, sitting on Mark’s lap and wrapping her
legs around him. “Still eh,” Mark teased. Angel kissed him and wrapped her
arms around his neck. “Guess I can’t disappoint the lady can I,” he said. He
kissed her and stood up carrying her towards the gazebo. She heard rustling in
the hedge. “What the hell was that,” Angel said letting go. Mark went and
checked it out. “Grab my cell. It’s on the table. Call Andy,” Mark said. About
10 minutes later, Mark came out of the bushes. He had James by the collar. His
hand was red, and his face was bruised. “Don’t even say a word to her. You’re
going away my friend,” Mark said. “She’s my wife. I can do whatever the hell I
want,” James said. “Oh hell no I’m not,” Angel said. “Yes you are. We were
together 4 years. Common law,” James said. “I guess you never got the order
then. It was voided. I paid part of the bills without you knowing so it wouldn’t
be common law. Did you really think I wanted to be married to you,” Angel
said. “Bitch,” he said heading towards Angel. Mark got him in a headlock. 10
minutes later, Angel could hear cop sirens. “PS. Kiss my butt James. I am
getting married, and it will never be to you. I am marrying Mark and there isn’t
a damn thing you can do about it,” Angel said as Andy walked in.
“I’ll take care of him for you two. Hiding in the bushes. What a loser you are
James. Especially since the restraining order says 1000 feet,” Andy said hauling
James away. “Answer me one question. Just one and I will leave you alone,”
James asked. “What,” Angel asked. “Did you ever love me or was it just sex to
you,” he asked. “Or lack of? You didn’t love me. I was a toy to you. If you
think that’s what love is maybe they should do a psych evaluation on you too. I
did, and you blew it. It’s done and over. Stay away from me. Far away. Other
solar system far,” Angel said. Mark wrapped his arms around Angel before she
lost it. “I’ll be in touch Mark,” Andy said as they headed to the car with James in
cuffs. Mark heard the cars leave and Angel turned wrapping her arms around
him. “Come inside,” Mark suggested. He grabbed the glasses. Angel went
inside and grabbed some ice for his hand. “Thanks baby,” Mark said as Angel
curled up in his arms. “See what I meant? Even when I am safe I’m not,” Angel
said. He kissed her. “You are when you are with me,” Mark replied. She put
her head on his shoulder. “Maybe I was a little hasty about the moving in
thing,” Angel said. “I can get a truck tomorrow to move your stuff. Just say the
word,” Mark said. Angel kissed him and wrapped her legs around him. “I
guess that’s the word,” Mark said. They made love on the sofa, then got dressed
and headed to her place.
“I am so sorry about this. He said he was called in to check the electrical in the
unit. If I had known,” the condo super said. “It wasn’t meant to be permanent
anyway. I’ll probably be gone by the end of next week,” Angel said. “There are
a few people interested in the unit anyway. Thanks for telling me all about that.

35. 2
Nice seeing you again Mark,” she said. Angel and Mark headed upstairs. When
Angel walked in, she looked around. “I’ll call him,” Mark said. James had
ransacked the apartment. The only thing still in it’s place was the furniture in
the rooms. Angel grabbed her suitcases and threw all her clothes in. Mark
grabbed everything from the bathroom and packed it in a bag. She grabbed her
cell charger and her phonebook and the items she never wanted to lose.
“Everything else we can get later,” Mark said. Andy showed up 15 minutes
later. “He admitted to this. He said you took something from him and he was
trying to find it,” Andy said. Angel grabbed her jewelry box, pulled something
out and handed it to him. “Give it to him. He never would have thought to look
for it in there. I don’t want it anyway,” Angel said. She cleaned out the drawers
in the bedroom and threw them into the bag. “He’s definitely a nut job Mark.
He said she was his and he would never let her leave him alive,” Andy said. He
tried to say it quietly so Angel wouldn’t hear. “Can we up it to something more
permanent or serious or something,” Mark asked. “Already done. I don’t know
if you know what you are getting into, but I think what’s happened over the past
little while is mild compared to what he could do,” Andy said. Angel was
coming out of the bedroom and heard the whole thing. She sat down on the
floor. “Baby. What’s wrong,” Mark asked. “He’s right. We aren’t safe. He
knows where you live. We really aren’t safe,” Angel said. He picked her up in
his arms. “Can you grab the bags Andy? I have to get her out of here,” Mark
said. He took her downstairs, filled the car with her stuff and headed back to the
house. “You know where to find us,” Mark said. Andy nodded.

36. 2
Chapter 5
Monday morning, Angel hesitantly went back to work. Raven popped her head
in and Angel jumped in her chair. “What are you so jumpy for? I tried to call
you last night. Where were you,” she asked. “That number’s being disconnected
on Friday. Here’s the new one,” Angel said writing the number down for Raven.
“Talk,” Raven said. “James strikes again. He trashed my place, stalked me at
Mark’s and went psycho. Let’s just say I am safer at Mark’s place,” Angel said.
“Girl. You should have called us,” Raven said. “Why what’s going on,” Aubrey
asked. “James went nuts this weekend. Stalking, broke into my condo and is
insane. He’s in jail now, but I am not taking any chances. I moved my stuff to
Mark’s place. I officially move out on Friday night,” Angel said. “Then you
have to have us over so we can see the place,” Alicia said. “Caught the tail end
as always,” Raven said. “Well,” she asked. “Saturday. Drinks and dinner. I’ll
call Mark and double check,” Angel said. “How did he take it,” Alicia asked.
“Like my knight in shining armor would,” Angel said. “Damn fairy tales,”
Aubrey said. They all shuffled off to their desks.
Around 2, a bouquet showed up for Angel. “I checked the card. It is from some
guy named Mark,” her assistant said. Angel opened the card.
Something to make you smile. Love you. Can’t wait to see you
tonight. –Mark
Angel smiled. “Good taste too. These ones are damn expensive,” Alicia said
wandering by. She smelled the roses and continued on her way to her desk.
Angel brought them into her office and sat them in the bay window. “Hey
baby,” Angel said calling Mark. “Hey yourself. Did you get them,” he asked.
“Definitely,” Angel said. “Hold on one sec.” She put Mark on hold. “Ducking
out early. See you in the morning,” Angel said to her assistant as she went back
to her desk to pack up. “So where were we,” Angel asked. “What are you up to?
You have that sound in your voice,” he asked. “Nothing. What time you at
work until tonight,” Angel asked. “6,” he replied. “Why?” “No reason.
Question, you up for a dinner party on Saturday night,” Angel asked. “Inviting
the girls are you,” he asked. “And their dates. Is that okay,” Angel asked as she
grabbed her briefcase and quietly closed the door. “Sure. Wanna cook or order
in,” he asked. “We’ll see how much we get done,” Angel said. “You’re walking.
Where are you going,” he asked. “Meeting. Can I call you back in a little while,”
Angel asked. “I’ll be here…..unfortunately,” he replied.
Angel stopped at the lingerie store and grabbed a little something, nabbed her
trench coat from the house and slipped the lingerie on, then went down to

37. 2
Mark’s work for a surprise. When she got there, the assistant said Mark was in a
meeting. A few minutes later, he came out with Andy. “Hey. Just the lady I was
looking for,” Andy said. They all headed into the office. Mark stared at her and
she had a grin ear to ear. “He’s in jail for 6 months. Violation of restraining
order, trespassing, assault and breaking and entering. The psych evaluation said
he is definitely having possession problems. He’s not going to be able to bother
you anymore. They have him on sedatives,” Andy said. “Thanks a million
Andy,” Angel said. “So about this party…am I invited? Single friends and I
could happen,” he said. “You and Aubrey would be perfect,” Angel said. “It’s a
date then. See you two Saturday,” he said leaving.
Angel went and drew the blinds and locked the door. “Oh hell no. Tell me you
didn’t do what I think you did,” Mark said. Angel sat on the edge of his desk.
He untied her trench coat and his mouth dropped to the floor. “Damn. You
did,” he said kissing Angel. “My way of saying thank you,” Angel said kissing
him. “Remind me to do that more often,” Mark said. He kissed her and pulled
her to him wrapping her legs around him. They had sex on the desk, against the
wall, then they sat in his chair. “How the hell am I supposed to get work done
now,” he asked. “I know what you could be doing,” Angel said. He kissed her.
She straightened his tie. She went to get up, and he begged her not to go. “Don’t
leave me like this,” he said. The whole thing had made him horny as hell.
“Don’t worry. That can be fixed,” Angel said. There was a knock at the door.
“Mr. Scott. Mr. James needs to speak with you when you are finished your
meeting,” his assistant said. “Thanks,” he replied. “I guess the meeting comes
first,” Angel said getting up. “Stay. I won’t be that long. 20 minutes tops,”
Mark said. “Okay. I’ll wait here for you,” Angel said. She retied her trench coat,
fixed her hair and lipstick, then he kissed her again and went to his meeting.
“That would be great. Tea. Two sugars for her. Will be about 20 minutes……
yes. Sure if you want Janna,” Mark said.
About 5 minutes later, Mark’s assistant came in. “So you are the Angel I have
heard so much about,” she said. “I guess so,” Angel replied. She handed Angel
the tea. “So let me see it,” she said. Angel showed her the engagement ring.
“It’s beautiful,” she said. “I guess he knew me well enough to know what I
liked,” Angel said. “You are one lucky woman. He’s the ultimate bachelor.
Every woman in here has tried to hit on him at least once,” she said. “I guess I
know how to keep him happy then,” Angel said. “I wish I could be so lucky,”
Janna said. “I have a friend I could set you up with if you want,” Angel said.
“What’s his name,” she asked. “Rodney. He works for metro,” Angel said. “A
man in uniform. Delish,” Janna said. Mark came back in and Janna headed to
her desk. “So…..where were we,” Mark said as he closed the door and locked it.
“Well Mr. Ultimate Bachelor, I think right about here,” Angel said kissing him.
He laid her down on the sofa. “Maybe I should send you flowers every day,”

38. 2
Mark said. They made love again, then Angel decided to head home. “So
around 7ish,” Angel asked. “Maybe sooner if you don’t get out of here,” he said.
He walked her to the door and kissed her hard. “All yours for the night when
you get home,” Angel said. “Dessert. My favorite,” he said as she opened the
door. She kissed him goodbye and headed to the house.
When he got home, the aroma from the kitchen pulled him in. Angel was in full
cooking mode. She made them salad and dinner. He kissed her neck hard and
pulled her close to him. “Welcome home,” Angel said. “Smells good,” he said.
His hands held her breasts. “Go sit. Dinner is ready,” Angel said. He held her
closer to him. “I guess I will be feeding you,” Angel said. He nibbled her ear.
“Seriously. Dinner,” Angel said. “Haven’t got my welcome home kiss yet,” he
said. She turned to face him and he picked her up wrapping his arms around her
and her legs around him. He kissed her chest, her neck then kissed her. “It will
stay warm,” Angel said. They did it on the counter top. “Nothing like dessert
first,” he said. He carried her into the dining room and put her on the chair. He
grabbed their dinner from the oven and brought it into her. “This is amazing,”
he said as he ate dinner. “Figured you deserved it,” Angel said. “You never told
me you were practically a gourmet chef,” Mark said. They finished dinner, and
cleaned up. She dried, he washed. Pinned against the sink, he kissed her neck
again. “You know I think I figured out how to make washing dishes fun,” Mark
said. “Oh I know how, just don’t think many dishes would get washed,” Angel
said. One hand slid down the front of her dress. “Dishes baby,” Angel said.
“Looked like you needed some help with those,” Mark said. He dropped the
sponge into the water, sliding his other hand down to her other breast. She
dropped her sponge. “All mine eh,” Mark whispered in her ear. Angel leaned
back against him. “For as long as we are together,” Angel said. “So forever
then,” Mark said kissing her. She backed up and started walking to the
bedroom. “Tucking me in so soon,” Mark said. She slipped her heels off. He
grabbed the tie of her dress and pulled. “God. I don’t know how you do it,”
Mark said leaning her backwards onto the bed. “And what’s that,” Angel said as
he slipped the dress from her shoulders kissing her neck and chest. “Get sexier
and more beautiful every day,” Mark said. “You,” Angel said. She slipped her
dress off and knocked it to the floor.
That night, they spent the entire evening curled up in bed together talking.
“Most romantic date ever,” Mark asked. “You mean other than ours,
well….hmmm. Let me see. Dinner at a fancy restaurant overlooking a waterfall,
then horse carriage through the park,” Angel said. “Damn. Must have been
good,” Mark said. “Would have been better with you,” Angel said. “Could be
arranged,” Mark replied. “Your turn,” Angel said. “Horseback riding on the
beach, then a bonfire and fireworks,” Mark said. “I love horses,” Angel said. “I

39. 2
guess we know what we are doing on Sunday then,” Mark replied. “Sounds
perfect,” Angel said. “Rain or shine,” Mark said.
They both dreaded going to work the next morning. It would be a long night for
both of them. Mid-day, Angel got an email from Mark. It was a blooming rose.
Love you
Angel smiled. She forwarded one of her she’d had taken before she broke it off
with James. Would have been a good surprise for him. Was of her in white
satin, wrapped in a mink stole.
Can’t wait until I get home
Not 5 minutes later her phone rang. “Going home early for that,” he said. “My
meeting isn’t done until 6,” Angel said. “See you in your office then,” Mark said.
“Not here,” Angel said. “Fair is fair,” Mark replied. “5:30. I’ll tell security to
show you in,” Angel said.
By the time Angel’s meeting was done, it was almost 6:30. Everyone was gone.
She went into her office and Mark was at her desk with his feet up. “Well hello
handsome,” Angel said sitting on his lap. “Believe it or not, I think your friends
have radar,” Mark said. “Talked your ear off,” Angel asked. Mark nodded and
kissed Angel. “Well worth the wait,” he said. He pulled her to him. “So, what
you want for dinner,” he asked. “You,” Angel whispered in his ear. “Other than
that,” he teased. “Nothing. Just you,” Angel said. “Follow me then,” Mark said.
They headed outside and she followed him to the house in her car. She came out
and he took her around the back. Candles, Champagne and Roses. “So Mr. Full
of surprises,” Angel said. “Follow me sweetheart,” he said. He slipped his shoes
off and she slipped her heels off and they headed for the beach. There were
horses waiting. “Snowflake and Rex,” Mark said. He handed Angel her jeans
and she changed quickly. They rode down the coastline, then back. When they
got back, dinner was on a picnic blanket in the sand. There was a bonfire in front
of it. “Where are your little elves,” Angel asked. “Hidden,” Mark said. They sat
down to dinner, and relaxed watching the stars and enjoying the fire. Around
10, Angel heard noises. “What the hell is that,” Angel asked. “Look up,” Mark
said. Fireworks in her favorite colors. “And it isn’t even a holiday,” Angel said.
“One more day until Friday. Thank god it’s a holiday,” Mark said. She curled
up with him and kissed him. “You know I really could get used to this,” Angel
said. “Me too. I missed you today,” Mark said. They watched the end of the
fireworks, then waited for the fire to go out before they headed inside. “I love
you,” Mark said. “I love you too,” Angel replied.

40. 2
By the time Friday came, Angel and Mark were both eager to start their
weekend. He dropped her at work that morning, kissing her goodbye, then
headed into the office. As soon as Angel came in, there were questions all
around. “Okay. So who is he? First he’s here at the end of the day yesterday,
now he drops you at work,” one of the ladies said. “Hold the phone. Look at the
rock,” one of the other ladies said. “Lucky girl we have here eh ladies,” Raven
said. They gawked at the ring a while, then demanded details. “We are getting
married on Valentine’s day,” Angel said. “Raven, Alicia and Aubrey are part of
the wedding party. Anything else,” Angel asked. “Where,” they asked. “The
beach,” Angel replied. She hadn’t even told her parents. After the hoopla died
down, Angel called her mom. “I have something to tell you,” Angel said. “What
baby,” they asked. “Check your email,” Angel said. There had been an
announcement in the paper, no doubt entered by someone Angel knew. Angel
forwarded it. They opened it and her mom was squealing with happiness. “We
have to come meet him. When is the wedding,” her mom asked. “Valentine’s
Day. His choice,” Angel said. “He is handsome,” her mom said. “Definitely is,”
Angel said. “I’ve seen that name somewhere before. Oh yes. I found it. What a
family he has,” her mom said. “Meaning,” Angel said. “Might as well be the
Trumps,” her mom replied. “He made a fortune all on his own. He is the
middle child, and his parents are well known in the computer industry.”
“Interesting,” Angel replied. “You haven’t met them,” she asked. “No mom.
Not yet. We have lots of time. It’s just going to be small and on the beach.
Nothing huge,” Angel said. “Whatever you need me to do, let me know,” her
mom said. “I am sending you a picture of a dress I was thinking of for you.
What do you think,” Angel asked. “It’s beautiful baby. My favorite color too,”
she replied. “I’ll call you later so we can talk more. Have to get some work done
today mom,” Angel said. “Love you baby,” she said. “Love you too,” Angel
said.
She searched the internet intermittently during the day researching. It was
Friday - Truth night. She had a million things to ask him now. Around 5, he
showed up and headed into her office. “Hey beautiful,” Mark said. The ladies
started coming out of the woodwork. “This is him is it.? You are one lucky
woman Angel,” they said. “Darn right,” Raven said. “Hey Mark.” “Hey Raven.
Hello ladies. Do you think I might be able to have a minute with Angel alone,”
he asked. They dissipated, then he locked the door. He closed the blind. She
wrapped her arms around him. “So I guess the secret’s out now,” Angel said.
“Good picture of us though,” Mark said. “So did you tell your parents,” Angel
asked. “This morning. You,” he asked. “Same. They are bouncing off the
walls,” Angel said. “Mine too. When are your parents demanding to come
down,” Mark asked. “Two weeks. I’m going to get them a hotel room. I want
you all to myself,” Angel said. “Me too. My parents are coming about then.
Maybe the same hotel,” Mark suggested. Angel nodded. He kissed her. “Mr.

41. 2
and Mrs. Scott. What do you think,” Mark asked. She kissed him. “I guess
that’s a yes. Ready for our Friday night,” Mark asked. Angel sat on the desk.
He kissed her and leaned her back, then checked to make sure the door was
locked. He tried to slip her jacket off, then moved in for the rest of it. He looked
down noticing the white satin lingerie. “Home,” he said. “Now,” Angel replied.
She pulled on her jacket, locked up her briefcase and laptop and followed Mark
out the door to the car.
“So why didn’t you tell me,” Angel asked. “Tell you what baby? Like it would
have made a difference if I told you that I had money. That’s not why we are
together,” Mark said. “I know, but was it true about how you got this house,”
Angel asked. “There used to be a place behind this where the grass is. I bought
it and redid the landscaping. Wanted to have trees and grass. Wanted to have
somewhere to have picnics,” Mark said walking towards Angel with the wine.
“So when did you get this house,” Angel asked. “About a year and a bit ago. I
got it from my friend as I told you. He knew how much I loved this house. He
told me that it was mine just like I told you. Once I was here a while, I decided I
needed more room out the back. I wanted the unobstructed view. It was a tiny
place out back, so I got rid of it,” Mark said. “My turn. Would it have made a
difference to you if I had told you that I had money?” “No. Just would like to
have known that I was engaged to the bachelor. I still don’t get it. How could
nobody have snapped you up,” Angel asked. He leaned over to her. “Waiting
for you,” Mark said. He kissed her and wrapped his arms around her pulling
her into his lap. “You must have been. You have been so good to me these past
few months. Really, I don’t know what I would have done without you,” Angel
said. “And you’ll never have to find out,” Mark replied.
That night, they curled up in bed together. He held her close and kissed her
neck. “You’re so quiet. What’s going on in that head of yours,” Mark asked.
“Just thinking,” Angel said. “About,” Mark asked. “This is all just too perfect,”
Angel said. “You know I’m not perfect right,” Mark said. “I know. Nobody is,
this just seems so surreal - the beautiful house, the loving man. Just seems like
too much of a good thing,” Angel said. “Never enough. This place just didn’t
seem like home without someone to share it with,” Mark said. Angel was quiet.
“What’s wrong,” Mark asked. “Just wondering when I am going to wake up
from this dream,” Angel said. “Want me to remind you why this isn’t a dream,”
Mark asked. She turned to face him. “I already know. You are definitely real,”
Angel said kissing him. She wrapped a leg around him and curled up in his
arms. “And just think. A few more months,” Mark said. “And why the rush
again,” Angel asked. He kissed her and pulled her closer to him. “The sooner
we get married, the sooner we can move on. The sooner we can start forever,”
Mark said. “We already are. Still, why,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “I’ve

42. 2
waited too long as it is. I knew from the moment we met,” he started to say.
Angel kissed him and they made love.
“You couldn’t have known from the moment we met. I was with James. I wasn’t
sure what was going on with him,” Angel said. “I knew I would be a better
person with you in my life. You remind me that I have weaknesses. You make
me happy. Why wouldn’t I have known that,” Mark said wrapping his arms
tight around Angel. “Maybe that’s not enough,” Angel said. “Don’t tell me you
are having second thoughts. Please,” Mark said. “Just wondering if that’s all it
really takes. I don’t want to make a mistake,” Angel said. “We aren’t a mistake.
Don’t ever say that,” Mark said. “I just don’t want to go through the whole
James thing again. You can understand why I am a little apprehensive. Why I
suggested a long engagement,” Angel said. He kissed her hard. “Even if I have
to remind you 5 times a day for the rest of your life, I never want you to forget
why I love you,” Mark said. “And why is that,” Angel asked. “The fact that you
value honesty, that you love me and would even if I had nothing, the fact that
you can make me smile when I am stressed or miserable. The fact that you make
me feel whole again, that we are a perfect fit. The fact that you can let your
guard down around me and let me into your heart. You have to see that’s why I
love you so much. Why I can’t imagine spending a day or night without you.
The fact that no matter what we do in bed, you make me happy. You make me
feel good in ways I can’t even describe. Your spur of the moment surprises, your
way of saying thank you to me. God how could I ever resist,” Mark said. He
kissed her and noticed her eyes were filled with tears. “What. What did I say,”
he asked. She kissed him. “Why the tears,” he asked. “That’s the most beautiful
thing anyone ever said to me,” Angel said. He wiped the tears away and kissed
her. “No more tears then. Only happy ones,” Mark said. Angel nodded and he
kissed her. “Besides. Nicer to have a real live teddy bear to cuddle with than a
fake one,” he teased. They both laughed. He wrapped his arms so tight around
her that she couldn’t help but kiss him.
“So if you weren’t sure, why did you say yes,” Mark asked the next morning
over breakfast. “It just felt right. Maybe too perfect in almost every way, but it
seemed like that’s what my heart said was the right thing,” Angel said. “I
realized that through all I have been through, you have been the one thing that
never let me down. The one person I could always believe in and count on. You
are the first person who made me smile all the time. After James and I were
apart, I felt like I could breathe again. Like every breath I took was my own for
once. You never made me feel smothered. You make me happy instead of
miserable. The moment James started pulling his crap, you were there 100%.
Not many people would have stayed around for that mess. Being with you
made me feel safe and secure again. It felt right in every way that nobody else
ever made me feel. How could I not,” Angel replied. They had some breakfast

43. 2
then sat down on the sofa and relaxed. “Anything we need to do today,” Mark
asked. “Don’t ask that question,” Angel said sitting in his lap. “Anything,” he
asked as Angel kissed him hard. “Could definitely do that,” Mark said carrying
her upstairs to bed.
By the time 4pm hit, Angel was running around. They put dinner together for 10
and got everything together for their guests. Mark picked up some flowers and
helped her get prepared. Around 5, everyone showed. “Come on in,” Mark
said. “Holy snappin’,” Alicia said. “This place is absolutely huge,” Raven said.
“Nice seeing you again too ladies,” Mark said. Angel laughed. “I suppose
everyone wants the grand tour,” Angel said. “Definitely,” Aubrey said. Mark
took them on a tour while Angel got everything finished for dinner. After their
tour, they came down to the living room. “Wine,” Angel asked. They all sat
down for a drink before dinner. “What a view. Damn. I wish I were so lucky,”
Alicia said. Andy couldn’t take his eyes off Aubrey. “I’m going to go check on
dinner. Be right back,” Mark said. “I’ll come help you,” Andy said. He
followed Mark into the kitchen while everyone else chatted in the living room.
“Damn. Could have warned me she was a hottie,” Andy said. “Which one
Andy? Wasn’t sure which one you wanted tonight,” Mark teased. “Don’t play
around. Aubrey is hot,” Andy said. “So why don’t you talk to her then? She
make you nervous,” Mark asked. “As a damn school kid,” Andy said. They
both laughed. “Just be yourself. She’ll notice,” Mark said. They headed back
into the living room with the other guests.
“So, like I was saying, this place would be perfect for a wedding. It’s near the
beach, it’s quiet and out of the way,” Alicia said. “And we wouldn’t have to go
far to get to the wedding,” Raven said. “I see you all have your own ideas about
our wedding,” Mark teased. “First one of the bunch to get married. Damn right
we do,” Raven said. Mark kissed Angel. “You two are like damn Cinderella and
Prince Charming,” Aubrey said. “They really are lucky aren’t they,” Andy said.
“Definitely. Extremely lucky,” Aubrey said. Andy was making her as nervous
as she was making him. “Dinner is ready if you guys are ready,” Angel said.
“Starved,” they all replied making their way to the terrace for dinner. Angel and
Mark brought everything out, then sat down side by side. Mark lit the candles
for dinner, then they started. “You are one heck of a cook Angel,” Andy said.
“We both are,” Angel said. “And he even cooks. Damn,” Raven teased. “And I
can clean up too,” Mark joked. They had a nice quiet dinner and relaxed, then
sat down for an after dinner drink. Aubrey and Andy decided to sit outside for
some peace and quiet while everyone else chatted away inside.
“It really is beautiful out here. You’d never find a property like this anywhere
else,” Andy said. “You know, I think Angel is finally really happy,” Aubrey

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said. “They both are. I have never seen Mark so happy,” Andy said. “So…..I’ve
been meaning to ask you.” “What’s that Andy,” Aubrey said. He almost got
tongue tied when she looked in his eyes. “I’d really love to see you again,” Andy
said. “Really. That could be arranged I think,” Aubrey said almost blushing. He
kissed her. His emotions overtook him. “Was hoping you’d say that,” Andy
said. He kissed her again then went back inside. “Coffee,” Angel asked. “We’re
good,” Aubrey said sitting down with Andy as he wrapped his arm around her
shoulder. Angel smiled. They all chatted a while longer, then everyone headed
home. Now all Angel had to do was find someone for her other two friends.
They deserved to be as happy as she was.
Chapter 6
A month or so passed, and Angel and Mark were getting closer than ever. The
more they got to know about each other, the closer they got. She loved being
with him. No matter what they were doing, they had fun together. By the end of
that month, Andy and Aubrey were finally an item, and Raven and her new
boyfriend Rodney (another Angel and Mark fix up) were going along great. The
only one friend left of Angel’s who wasn’t attached was Alicia. They decided to
have a girl’s night out. They headed out to the bar where Angel had met Mark.
They relaxed and had a drink or two, then hit the dance floor. By the time they
sat back down at the table, their feet were tired from dancing. “The gentleman at
the bar would like to buy you a drink. Any preference,” the waitress asked
Alicia. “Cosmopolitan,” Alicia said. The waitress left the table to get the drink.
Within 5 minutes, a gentleman was at the table trying to talk to Alicia.
“Having a girl’s night I see,” he said. “Haven’t had one in a while,” she replied.
“By the way, my name is Anthony,” he said. “Alicia,” Alicia replied. “I couldn’t
help but try getting your attention,” he said. “I guess that’s one way of doing it,”
Alicia said. He was tall, dark haired and buff. Three of the things off Alicia’s
dream man wish list. He was kind hearted, that she knew of. “Would you care
to dance,” he asked as a slow song came over the speakers. He took her hand
and led her to the dance floor. “You really are beautiful,” he said. “Thank you,”
Alicia said. They danced all the slow songs, then on their way back to the table,
he bought her a rose. “So, I was hoping I could see you again…..you know in
daylight,” he teased. “Sure,” Alicia said. They exchanged business cards writing
down their cell and house numbers on the backs. “I’ll call you tomorrow okay,”
Tony said. “Looking forward to it,” Alicia said sitting down with her girls.
“Well,” Angel asked. “Damn. He’s fine and tall. Damn. Couldn’t ask for a nicer
person,” she said. “From what you know now, you like him,” Raven asked.
“Dang. Hell yeah,” Alicia said. “Good. Can we get out of here now.” Aubrey
asked. “Going to go say good bye. I’ll meet you outside,” Alicia said. She

45. 2
walked over to Tony. “Just thought I would come say good bye. We’re heading
out,” she said. He took her hand walking her to the door. “Something I need to
do,” Tony said. “What’s that,” Alicia replied. He kissed her hard. “Tomorrow
night,” he asked. “Free. See you at 7,” Alicia asked. He nodded. He kissed her
again and headed back to his friends as she headed outside to hers.
“Okay. Ready to head home now,” Alicia said as she headed towards her
girlfriends. “So what do you think of Tony,” Angel asked. “You know him?
Damn. Why didn’t you tell me,” Alicia said. “He’s a friend of Andy’s. He was
here with his friends tonight. I noticed him there. What? Not like I pimped you
out to him,” Angel said sarcastically. “Damn. Why didn’t you just set us up?
Would have been less awkward,” Alicia said. “His idea. Why do you think I
suggested here for our night out,” Angel said. All the girls chuckled. “He is
definitely a catch,” Alicia said. They hopped into the cab, then headed home.
They gossiped and giggled their way home. They dropped Angel off last.
She walked in and snuck upstairs. She slipped her heels and dress off, then slid
into bed with Mark. The minute he felt her presence, he woke up. “Well hello
beautiful. Missed you tonight,” Mark said wrapping his arms around her. She
wrapped her legs and arms around him. “Missed you too. What did you do
tonight,” Angel asked. “Poker night with the guys, but I guess we are all getting
old. They headed home around 1,” Mark said. “How was ladies night?” “Alicia
and Tony are going out tomorrow night, and all I could do was think back to that
night we met there,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Remember the first time we
were alone? Seems like forever ago,” Mark said. “I was a totally different
woman then,” Angel said. “Why do you think I waited for you? God. One
night and I was hooked like a hooker to cocaine,” Mark said kissing her ear. “We
really shouldn’t have,” Angel said. “I wanted you so bad that night. Just like I
always do now,” Mark replied. “The one thing I remember the most, was the
goose bumps I got head to toe. Felt like you read my mind,” Angel said.
“Always can,” he said slipping her bra off. He moved down. “Damn. Thank
you for my surprise,” Mark said. “Thought you’d love that,” Angel said. He slid
everything off her from the waist down. “Mine. All mine,” he whispered. He
kissed her leg slowly working his way up her thigh. He switched legs and
continued. He kissed her and teased her until she begged him to stop. He kissed
his way up her torso, then kissed her lips. They made love over and over that
night, then finally fell asleep around 7. “Just like the night we first met,” Mark
said. “This time was even better,” Angel said as he wrapped his arms around
her.
The next morning, Angel woke up to a phone call. Andy was on the phone with
Mark. “Okay. So what now,” he asked. “Okay. I can. I don’t want to worry her
though. No prob. I’m happy for you Andy. She’s a great girl. See you soon.”

46. 2
He hung up and climbed back into bed wrapping his arms around Angel.
“Spill,” Angel said. She looked at the clock. Her alarm hadn’t even gone off yet
for work. “Nothing to worry about,” Mark said. “Don’t start lying now,” Angel
said. “We’ll talk about it later. Andy has something he needs you to sign. I’ll
bring it by when I get it this afternoon,” Mark said. He kissed her neck. “What
don’t you want to worry me with? I need to know Mark,” Angel said. “No you
don’t. It’s nothing. I heard something last night and I got up to check it out. As
I said, nothing to worry about,” Mark said. Angel got up out of bed and hopped
in the shower. He followed her. “You can’t tell me or you won’t,” Angel said.
“If I tell you it’s just going to freak you out. It’s not worth it,” Mark said. “Tell
me then,” Angel said washing her hair. “He got into the house. I caught him red
handed and cuffed him until Andy got here. He slipped them to me after what
happened last time we caught him on the property,” Mark said. Angel stepped
out of the shower and wrapped a towel around her. “That order is just another
piece of paper to him. He’s not going to abide by it,” Angel said. She combed
her hair and started getting ready for her day. By the time it got to her make up,
she was shaking. “I told you that you’d freak out. It’s nothing to be worried
about. I forgot to turn the damn alarm on last night. That’s all it is,” he said.
“No, I forgot to turn it back on when I came home. I’ll never get rid of him you
know,” Angel said. She put on minimal makeup and got changed for work.
She sat down on the edge of the bed. “Baby. Please. It’s not your fault. It isn’t.
He needs to learn. We’ll be fine. Andy is putting a 24-7 tail on him. He’ll never
even try it again. I am adding more security on for the grounds. Everything will
be okay,” Mark said with Angel in his arms. She got up and went downstairs to
make breakfast. He got changed and ready for work and came down to meet
her. She was sitting at the table trying to relax herself. “I’ll drive in today. I’ll
come get you after so you don’t have to worry. I promise. Nothing will happen
today or any day from now on,” Mark said. Angel nodded. He walked towards
her and saw the tears in her eyes. He wrapped his arms around her and held her
close. “Never let anything happen to you. I’d lay my life down for you,” Mark
said. He kissed her, she freshened up and they headed off to work.
The day went by quickly for Angel. She was pretty quiet most of the day. Her
girls were all spending their time talking to their men instead of distracting her.
Around 4, Andy stopped by the office. He spoke with the security department
about James, then headed in to see Angel. “The judge granted a permanent
restraining order. He can’t come within 1500 feet of you. He has to stay away
from you, the house, your office and Mark. He already signed it. All we need is
your signature. He’s in custody for 3 months for a violation of the last order.
This one is permanent. He can’t budge on this one,” Andy said. Angel signed
the papers then walked him over to Aubrey’s desk. “Brought a little surprise for

47. 2
you,” Angel said heading back to her desk. She walked in to find a bouquet on
her desk. She grabbed the card.
I love you. Will love you forever – Mark
Angel smiled and sat down. The entire bouquet was her favorite flowers and
colors. He knew how to make her smile alright. She went to call him when he
appeared in the doorway. “Was just about to call you,” Angel said. “Most
you’ve said all day according to Raven,” Mark said walking around her desk to
kiss her. She stood up and kissed him. “Glad you are here,” Angel said. “Me
too. Was a little worried about you after this morning,” Mark said. Angel’s boss
stuck her head in. “So this must be Mr. Scott. I have heard so much about you. I
hear congratulations are in order,” she said. “Valentine’s Day,” Mark said.
“Only 7 months left. You two should be planning. You have almost 6 weeks of
vacation accrued. You should take some time off to get some planning done,”
she suggested. “I will closer to. It’s only August,” Angel said. “Just let me know
when. Anytime you want is yours,” she said. She headed out of the office. “So
what time do I get you back,” Mark asked. “4:30,” Angel replied. Mark looked
at his watch. “10 minutes eh,” he said. Angel nodded and sat down in her chair.
She drafted the remainder of the emails she needed to get out, then sent them off
just before she left for the day.
By the time they left, it was almost 5. They headed out and went straight home.
“Got the security system fixed. It’s all by remote now. We each get one. We
press it when we get in instead of having to do the code thing, then press it again
to re-arm. Sound good,” Mark asked. “Safer,” Angel said. They got to the front
gate and buzzed themselves through. “I got them to start extending the fence
around the property. You need a key to get in either gate. Plus, there’s an
infrared fencing around the fence so nobody can get through it without getting
one hell of a shock,” Mark said. Angel kissed him as he popped the car into
park. “Told you I would take care of you,” Mark said. Angel nodded and
hopped out of the car. A dog came running towards them. “And this is Goldie.
She’s trained to protect supposedly. Thought it might be a good idea to make
you feel more safe,” Mark said. She was just a puppy, but she had one heck of a
bark. “Well then Goldie. I guess we have to say thank you to Daddy don’t we,”
Angel said snuggling the puppy. Goldie licked Mark’s nose. “You go play.
Mommy has to thank Daddy,” Angel said putting the puppy down on the grass
beside her. She kissed him and he walked her towards the front door. She
leaned against the door and opened it. Goldie ran inside. They closed the door
and he kissed her hard leaning her against the door. “Thank you baby,” Angel
said as he unbuttoned her shirt and kissed her neck. He picked her up and
carried her up the steps to their bedroom. He laid her onto the bed kissing her.

48. 2
Her blouse, undergarments and skirt got pushed to the floor as did his dress
pants and dress shirt. He kissed her from head to toe then they made love.
“I know this morning you were just trying to protect me. I just don’t want any
secrets okay? Please,” Angel said. “As long as you promise to always let me
help you with anything you need help with, I will,” Mark said. Angel kissed
him and she curled up with Mark for a while. The only things preventing them
from hanging out in bed were their growling stomachs, and Goldie begging for a
walk and attention.
“I’ll take Goldie for a walk. Chinese,” Mark asked. Angel nodded and picked
up the phone. Within about 45 minutes, the food was there and Mark came in
from outside with Goldie. She sat on Crystal’s feet during their cozy dinner on
the sofa and the three relaxed by the TV. Later that night, they all headed to bed,
after a quick walk with Goldie. Somehow having a puppy around, no matter
how little, made Angel a little more safe. She knew that Goldie would turn into a
beautiful dog soon and would be more able to attempt to protect everyone. They
were like a little family all curled up together on the bed.
The next morning, Angel got up early and took Goldie outside. She made
breakfast for her and Mark and just as she was pouring the coffee, he came
downstairs. “Slept well I guess,” Angel said. “Was talking to Andy. He’s going
to talk to the judge today. The idiot is fighting the order,” Mark said. “Why? He
can’t win can he,” Angel asked. Mark took the coffee from her hand and she sat
down with him. “He’s not getting in here or your work. He said that you two
were legally married and until you file for a divorce, he can see you whenever he
wants,” Mark said. “We aren’t. I swear we aren’t. We lived together for years
but since we shared the bills, it wasn’t considered a marriage. Unless he got me
drunk one night and married me, we definitely aren’t married,” Angel said.
“That’s what I told Andy. I told him to check for proof. I told him you’d give
him a writing sample to verify it,” Mark said. “Definitely,” Angel replied as
Mark wrapped his arms around her. “You wouldn’t lie about that would you,”
Mark asked. “Definitely not. I could never have married him. Never,” Angel
said. “He wasn’t the person I was meant to be with. I told him that years ago. I
told him that when I got married it would be forever and no second thoughts.
I’d never,” Angel said. Mark kissed her. “I know you well enough to know you
aren’t lying to me. Andy was flying off the handle. I guess James was
convincing,” Mark said. “And James can go back to his home solar system,”
Angel said. Mark kissed her and they finished breakfast, then got showered and
ready for work.
He dropped her at the door and she headed in for another day of work. “Some
papers showed up for you this morning Angel,” her assistant said. “Thanks,”
she said taking her morning coffee and OJ into her office. She sat down and

49. 2
started going through some work on her desk. Around lunchtime, she finally
checked out the envelope her assistant had handed her. She rifled through the
documents. In amongst the papers, which seemed irrelevant, was a letter from
James.
Angel,
You know that I am right when I say we are married.
The only thing missing was a ring. I want you back in
my life. Please don’t leave. Don’t marry him. This
whole police thing is wrong. You know it. You know
you love me. If I can’t have you, nobody will. I will
make sure of it.
James
Angel dropped the papers to the floor. Her assistant came in. Angel picked up
the phone and called Mark. “I’ll be right there,” he said. Angel went in to see
her boss and asked for the day off. “If you need another day take it,” she said.
“Thanks for understanding. I have to take care of this once and for all,” Angel
said. “Let me know if you need anything,” her boss said. Within 15 minutes or
so, Mark showed. They headed back to the house. Andy came and got the
envelope and papers. “Sneaky little bastard isn’t he,” Andy said. “Just get rid of
him,” Angel said. “Will do my best for you. Try to relax,” Andy said. Mark had
lunch with Angel then headed back to work. “I have meetings all afternoon. I’ll
try to get out early. Call me if you need me,” he said. Angel kissed him goodbye
and he headed off. She turned the alarm back on and went upstairs for a hot
bath.
By the time Mark got home, Angel was outside playing with Goldie. “You seem
better. How was your afternoon,” he asked. “Better. Andy called. He sent the
envelope two weeks ago. Was a mail delay for some reason. He’s in trouble for
even trying to send it, but he said since he wrote threats, he’s in even more
trouble,” Angel said snuggling with Goldie. “So I take it you and Goldie had a
nice afternoon,” Mark said sitting down on the stoop with Angel. “We did. I
think we missed you though,” Angel said. Mark kissed her, then Goldie jumped
into his lap. “And hello to you too Goldie,” Mark said as the puppy licked his
face. They headed inside and had dinner together, then curled up on the sofa to
watch some TV. “You sure you’re okay? Threats are a little hard to take,” Mark
asked. “Just like you told me before. Nothing will happen if we’re together. I

50. 2
feel even better now that you’re home,” Angel said. “Oh. I forgot to tell you.
Some documents showed up for you today. They were from a law firm
downtown.” She handed him the envelope. He opened them and got up
heading towards his office. Angel walked in behind him. “Well,” Angel asked.
He was strangely quiet. “What are they,” Angel asked. “Nothing. Don’t worry
about it. Just have to sign them and send them back to the law firm,” Mark said.
Angel sat down on the chair in front of him. “What,” he asked. “No secrets eh,”
Angel said. She walked out of the room and went upstairs. She slipped her
pajamas on and climbed into bed, turning out the light.
“How the hell am I going to tell her this? At least the divorce papers are final.
She’s going to freak out. Why the hell didn’t I tell her,” Mark said to Goldie who
had jumped into his lap. He took Goldie for a walk then came back in and
headed upstairs. He walked into their bedroom and Angel was asleep in bed.
He got changed for bed and slipped into the bed beside her. The minute she felt
his presence she woke up. He wrapped his arms around her. She removed
them. “They were nothing Angel. I promise,” Mark said. “Blue forms mean
importance. Don’t bother trying to come up with an excuse. Just tell me the
truth,” Angel said. He rolled over and ran his hands through his hair. He took a
deep breath. “They were my divorce papers,” he said. Angel got out of bed.
“When were you going to tell me that? Were you waiting for me to ask you on
Friday,” she said leaving the room. She went outside and sat on the terrace. He
brought out a blanket and wrapped it around her shoulders. “I got separated
just before we met. After we met, I told her that a divorce would be better. It’s
final as of today,” Mark said. “So if I had said yes to marrying you instantly, you
would have been in big trouble then wouldn’t you,” Angel said. “I’m not
married to her anymore. She got what she wanted from me. All I want is you,”
he said. “Now,” Angel replied. She walked inside and made some tea. “Please
stop. I’m all yours. Officially. Please don’t do this,” Mark said. “So what makes
you think it will work Mark? What makes you think we won’t end up the same
way,” Angel asked. He kissed her hard and leaned her into the counter. “I love
you more than I have ever loved anyone. Don’t do this,” Mark said. “Maybe
this whole thing just went too fast. Maybe it would be better if I went away a
while,” Angel said. She went to move and he pinned her into the corner. “No.
You aren’t. You can’t,” he said. He kissed her again wrapping his arms tight
around her. When they finally broke the kiss she pushed past him. Angel went
upstairs and grabbed her jeans and sweater from the closet. “No. You aren’t
taking off. I am DIVORCED. Not married to her anymore. Listen to me. Please
don’t leave,” he said on his knees between her legs. “Why the hell didn’t you tell
me from the start Mark? Why,” Angel asked pulling her sweater on. “We were
in the process of divorcing. It wasn’t final yet. Besides. I had no idea where we
were going. All I knew is I craved you 24 hours a day. I had to be with you no
matter what,” he said. Angel pulled her jeans on and walked past him.

51. 2
“Where are you going,” he asked. He followed her down the stairs pulling his
jeans on. He grabbed his sweater from the closet. “For a walk,” Angel replied.
She grabbed Goldie’s leash and walked out the door. She wandered along the
beach for what felt like hours. She played with Goldie, and walked and took
some time to think. Was this all rushed? Too rushed? She knew he made her
happy, but after everything she believed was ruined, she couldn’t help but
wonder if it was all too soon. If the entire engagement and moving in was
rushed. She sat down with Goldie on the cool sand and Goldie fell asleep in her
arms. “I know. Bed time,” Angel said. She sat a little while longer then headed
back to the house. She came in and Mark was on the phone. She put Goldie in
her bed and walked upstairs.
An hour or so later, Mark came upstairs and kneeled down beside where Angel
was sleeping. “Are we okay,” he asked. “You should have told me from the
start Mark,” Angel said. “I know. It was a bad move. Please tell me you aren’t
going to hold it against me,” Mark said. “I thought we promised no secrets? Or
was that just a rule for me to follow,” Angel asked. He kissed her. “Was for both
of us. I’m sorry,” he said. “You better be,” Angel said. He slipped his jeans off
and slid into bed with Angel. “Forgive me,” he asked wrapping his arm around
her. “Not sure yet,” Angel said. He pulled her to him and kissed her. He pulled
her legs and wrapped them around him. “I love the way you kiss. You know
that,” he said. “Figured that was on the list of reasons why you wanted to marry
me,” Angel said. He slid her teddy off and kissed her. “Definitely in the top
ten,” he teased.

52. 2
Chapter 7
“So where did you disappear to yesterday? I came by at lunch and you were
gone,” Raven asked. “James sent a threat. I went home,” Angel said. “Why
didn’t you tell me? We were all worried about you,” Raven said as Alicia and
Aubrey came in. “What kind of threat,” Alicia asked. “The kind that says if I
can’t have you, nobody will,” Angel said. “Damn. He is off the rails now. What
a moron,” Aubrey said. “If you guys don’t mind, I don’t want to think about it. I
just had to get out of here yesterday and chill. Went home and spent the
afternoon with Goldie,” Angel said. “So that’s your new nickname for him,”
Alicia teased. “No. We got a puppy,” Angel said. “Ah. I see. It’s a girl I
assume,” Raven said. “Yep. Golden Blonde,” Angel said. After a while of
gossiping, the ladies all headed back to work.
By the end of the day, everyone had headed home, and the girls were back in
Angel’s office. “What would you think if we all went and did dinner,” Raven
suggested. “I’d have to check with my baby,” Alicia said. “Me too,” Aubrey
said. “I could call and check with Mark,” Angel said. She did, and he agreed.
“I’ll call the guys. We’ll meet you at Copa,” Mark said. “Okay. See you soon,”
Angel said. “Okay. He’s going to check with the guys. He said to meet them at
Copa. Let’s head out. I am absolutely starved,” Angel said. They all headed to
the restaurant. By the time the ladies got there, the guys were waiting. They all
said hi to their significant others and headed to their table. “No surprises
today,” Mark whispered to Angel. “Not unless you found some more that you
hadn’t told me,” Angel whispered back. He wrapped his arms around her and
kissed her cheek.
They sat down to dinner and had a great time. They all relaxed and chatted
away. Mark tried to hold Angel’s hand under the table. She excused herself and
went out to get some air. “You’re still mad. What do I have to do,” Mark asked
coming out behind her. “I can’t believe you weren’t even going to damn well tell
me,” Angel said. He wrapped his arms around her from behind. “Not here
okay. Please,” Mark said. “Why not Mark? Don’t want anyone to know you
didn’t tell your fiancée that you were going through a divorce? Who is she
anyway,” Angel asked. He turned her around to face him. “She doesn’t mean
anything anymore. She hasn’t been in my life for almost a year. I love you. Get
that through your head. No matter what it took I wanted to be with you,” he
said kissing Angel. They went back in a while later and everyone was having
coffee. They finished dinner, then everyone headed home.
“You haven’t said a word. Talk to me,” Mark said. “I want to know who she is.
End of discussion,” Angel said. “Why? She isn’t part of my life at all anymore.
She only married me for the money, and she barely got any of that. She was a

53. 2
user. It’s over. Why do you need to know,” he asked. “There are two sides
Mark. I want to know what happened between the two of you that made her
leave,” Angel said. “I refused to be with her. I told her that if she was only with
me for the money to leave, and within 24 hours she was gone. What else do you
need to know? She hurt me. Meeting you was what made me believe that real
love was actually possible,” Mark said. “I just don’t understand why you
couldn’t have told me,” Angel said. “It was the past. That’s it. Over. Done.
Long gone. I didn’t want to bring it up. All I know is that I want to be with you
forever. Starting tomorrow if we could. You have to believe me,” Mark said.
They pulled into the drive and Angel hopped out of the car and went inside.
Goldie came running to her and licked her. “I’ll take her for a walk. Can you
open the wine so we can talk,” Mark asked.
When he came back, a glass of wine was on the counter, but Angel was nowhere
in sight. He grabbed his wine, and went upstairs to check. She was in the
bathtub with her music on. He pulled his clothes off and hopped in with her. “I
love you Angel. I hope you know that,” Mark said. She leaned back and didn’t
say a word. He kissed her neck, putting his wine onto the ledge beside hers. He
wrapped an arm around her and ran his fingers over her breasts. “Let me make
it up to you,” he said as he nibbled her ear. He slid his arm down her torso. She
stopped him. She went to get out of the tub, and he grabbed her hand. She
grabbed her towel and he let go. He walked into the bedroom and she’d lit
candles. He walked up behind her as she was brushing her hair and kissed her
neck. “Come to bed then. Please,” Mark said. He took her hand leading her to
the bed. He kissed her. “I really am sorry,” Mark said. He listened and asked
her to dance. “I know you’re sorry. From now on, no more secrets. You are
going to tell me what I want to know though,” Angel said. He jumped back a
little then she pulled him to her. “Tomorrow,” she said. He kissed her hard and
slid the towel from around her. He danced her right to the bed. He leaned her
back and kissed her, then moved down. He looked in her eyes the entire time.
They made love that night and everything was more intense than it had ever
been. After, they curled up in the bed and she fell asleep in his arms.
The next morning, he almost dreaded getting out of bed. He rolled over
expecting to find Angel beside him, but the bed was empty. He pulled his robe
on and went downstairs. The leash was gone. He made some coffee and sat
down on the terrace. When she came back with Goldie, they were both
exhausted. Goldie ran inside for some water and Angel sat down with Mark.
“Went for a run,” he asked. “Goldie wanted to go for a run,” Angel said. She sat
down and drank her water. “So. I noticed something. Only 2 weeks until your
birthday. Anything you wanted to do,” Mark asked. “Nope. Might take a day
off to relax and sleep in, but other than that no,” Angel said. “Why don’t we go
away for the weekend that weekend,” he asked. “Sure. Whatever you want to

54. 2
do,” Angel said going inside. He followed her. “Okay. We aren’t starting off
the day like this. What do you want to know,” Mark asked. “Just what I asked
you last night,” Angel replied. He put his coffee down, went into his office and
rifled through a drawer or two then emerged with a picture. “Any thing else,”
Mark asked. “She looks familiar. Really familiar,” Angel said. “She was an exec
assistant at your company when we divorced. Who knows now,” Mark said.
Angel thought about it. “I know where I know her from. She works with my old
boss now,” Angel said. She left the company in January. She’s working on the
other side of the state now,” Angel said. “As I said. She isn’t in my life. I
wouldn’t know. All I know is her lawyer is here and sent me the final papers. I
am a free man now. Free to marry the woman I love. That’s all there is to it,”
Mark said. “I oddly remember her saying something about you. Thinking back,
you probably are right. She was a little strange. She always was looking for the
next rich man,” Angel said. “As I told you,” Mark said. “Did you ever cheat on
her,” Angel asked. “Never. Until we were legally separated, I was with her and
only her,” Mark said. “Okay,” Angel said. “Okay as in okay or as in
everything’s okay now,” Mark asked. “Okay as in it’s getting there,” Angel
replied. “What else. Anything,” Mark asked. “Big or small,” Angel asked. “Big
or small what,” Mark asked. “Big or small wedding,” Angel asked. “For us, as
long as you and I are there I don’t really care,” Mark said. She gave him a look.
“She demanded extravagant and expensive. Massive was a better word,” Mark
said. “So we’ll have our small one. Still beautiful, but small and romantic,”
Angel said. Mark got up and kissed her. “I guess this means you have forgiven
me,” Mark said. “Well,” Angel said. Mark kissed her and practically bowled her
over on the sofa.
He carried her upstairs to their bedroom. “You know you are crazy right,”
Angel teased. He kissed her pulling her tracksuit completely off. “Only for you
baby,” Mark said. He made love to her and he felt like she’d finally forgiven
him. After, they hopped into the shower and got dressed for their day. “Have a
few things to pick up today. I’ll meet you back here for dinner,” Angel said.
“No way am I letting you out of my sight today,” Mark said. “Fine. I have some
things I have to do alone today. Please. I will meet you back here for dinner,”
Angel said. “As long as you come home to me then,” Mark said. “Definitely,”
Angel said. She headed out the door and off to do her errands.
“So Goldie. What you want to do today girl,” Mark asked as the puppy barked
and begged to play. “Okay. The beach it is,” Mark said grabbing his cell and
cordless phone.
Angel headed off to see a friend of hers at a bridal store. “So what are you
looking for exactly,” she asked. “Satin, slip dress looking. Something good for
the beach or something like that,” Angel said. “When,” she asked. “Valentine’s

55. 2
Day,” Angel said. They went through dress after dress. Finally, Angel found
one that made her cry. “It’s perfect,” Angel said. “You look beautiful in it,” she
said. “Now for the veil.” The sales lady slipped it on and Angel started really
feeling like a bride. “Perfect. Can we get lilac satin slip dresses. Crossed across
the back. Ankle length,” Angel asked. The sales woman brought out something
similar to what she was thinking. “Perfect, but in a pale lilac,” Angel said. The
sales lady brought over the fabric samples as Angel got changed. “This one is
perfect. I’ll tell the girls to come in for fittings closer to. I know it’s kind of early
to be looking for the dress, but I couldn’t resist,” Angel said. “No problem. I’ll
call you when the fresh one comes in,” the sales woman said as she drew up the
hold tag. Angel headed out and off to her next errand. She stopped at the
lingerie store, the liquor store, the movie store and the grocery store then headed
home.
She was greeted at the driveway by Mark and Goldie. “How was your day
beautiful,” Mark asked. “Great. Got everything done. All yours the rest of the
weekend,” Angel said. Angel went to get the groceries and wine and movies
from the car and Mark helped her. “What’s this red bag for,” Mark asked. “Just
a little something I found for me,” Angel said. They carried the groceries and
everything in and he asked again. “May I,” he asked. “Nope,” Angel teased.
The suspense was killing him. “So, I called a friend of mine about your birthday.
He is lending me something for that weekend for the two of us,” Mark said.
“Sure,” Angel said. He wrapped his arms around her. “So, what did you do
today,” Mark asked. “Picked out a dress, went shopping. You know….the
usual,” Angel said. “A dress eh? Is it the kind of dress I am thinking of,” Mark
asked. “Picked out the bridesmaids’ ones too,” Angel said. Mark kissed her
pinning her into the counter. She hopped onto the counter. “So I guess that
means that we are really going to get married. No more doubts,” Mark asked.
Angel kissed him wrapping her arms around him. He unbuttoned her dress she
had been wearing. “All this is mine,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. They had sex
against the counter, then moved to the rug by the fireplace and curled up
together. “I guess that’s why you needed to go alone,” Mark asked. Angel
nodded. “Bad luck for you to see the dress before the wedding,” Angel said.
“Maybe, but I bet you were absolutely breathtaking,” Mark said kissing her.
“The sales woman cried and so did I a little,” Angel said. “So, now that I have
you in my arms and I’m never letting you go, let me see what’s in the red bag,”
Mark asked. Angel slipped out from under the blanket. “Not until later…..and
only if you are good,” Angel teased. “I’ll give you good,” he teased pulling her
legs back to him.
After dinner, they both took Goldie for a walk along the beach then sat down on
the terrace and let her run around a while. “So, do you think maybe we should
start figuring out who to invite,” Mark asked. “Better idea. My parents are

56. 2
coming next weekend and so are yours. Let’s see how they get along,” Angel
teased. “I know they will love you like I do. They’ll all see how happy we are
and it will be damn near contagious,” Mark said wrapping his arms around
Angel. She leaned into him as he leaned against the railing by the steps. “I hope
so,” Angel said. “Anything I should know before they come,” Mark asked.
“Like what,” Angel asked. “Anything you haven’t told me,” he asked. “I would
ask you the same,” Angel said. “I am an open book for you baby. So, as I asked.
Anything I should know,” he said. “Other than my older brother won’t be
coming with them, no. Nothing I can think of anyway,” Angel said. He kissed
her again. Goldie came running onto the steps with them and jumped into
Angel’s lap. “Happy little family aren’t we,” Mark asked. “Speaking of,” Angel
said. “What,” Mark asked. “Other than Goldie, do you want kids,” Angel asked.
“As long as they are as beautiful as you, definitely. I want them to come back
and visit us when we are 92 and still here and loving each other,” Mark said.
“Good to know,” Angel said. She had other reasons for asking. She thought she
might be late.
They headed inside and straight to bed. Angel slipped into the washroom with
her red bag, then came out and slipped into bed beside Mark. “Not even going
to let me see it,” he teased. He wrapped an arm around her. “Holy shit,” Mark
said realizing what it was. He looked. “Red satin eh?! You know that’s my
favorite,” Mark said. Angel kissed him. She took his hand sliding it down her
leg. “No way. Damn. You definitely know how to tease a man to distraction
don’t you,” Mark asked. “One specific one, yes,” Angel replied. He kissed her
and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her towards him. “I guess you liked
your surprise,” Angel said. He pinned her onto the bed and she wrapped her
legs around him. “Definitely,” Mark said kissing her and untying the front of the
lingerie.
The next morning, Angel awoke with Mark’s arms still around her. She finally
felt like there really were no secrets – except that one. She slipped out of bed and
into the washroom to take a test. After 5 minutes, she looked down. “Thank
god,” she said to herself, hiding it back in the red bag in the box. She slipped
back into the bedroom and into bed with Mark. “You okay,” he asked wrapping
his arms around Angel. “Fine,” Angel said. “What do you say we spend the day
in bed,” Mark asked. “Goldie,” Angel replied. “Okay. Most of the day then,”
Mark said. She kissed him and they curled up a while. Goldie jumped onto the
bed a little while later and Mark took her out for a walk. When he got back,
Angel was making breakfast. “Smells delicious,” Mark said. Angel brought out
his breakfast and put together breakfast for Goldie. “Damn you can cook. You
are a woman of many, many talents aren’t you,” Mark said pulling Angel into his
arms. “I try,” Angel said kissing him. “You ate already,” he asked. Angel
nodded pouring herself some grapefruit juice. “Was starved this morning,”

57. 2
Angel said sitting down at the table with Mark. “Must have worked up an
appetite during the night,” Mark teased. They finished breakfast, then Angel
went upstairs and threw her bikini on. They headed out for a fun filled day at
the beach.
By the time dinner rolled around, Angel and Mark were both tired out by Goldie.
They all headed inside and Mark ordered some dinner. Angel went upstairs and
hit the shower, and Mark followed shortly behind after ordering dinner. The
warm water rolled over her now tanned skin and relaxed her tired muscles. She
felt hands wrap around her. She looked down and realized they were Mark’s
hands. She turned to face him. He kissed her hard and leaned her against the
wall of the shower. His hands pulled her close to him. “I’ve wanted to do this
all day,” Mark said kissing her chest then moving downwards. By the time they
finally got out of the shower, Mark had to run downstairs to answer the door for
dinner. He ran back up after heading straight back to the bathroom. The mirror
was covered in fog from the shower. He came up behind her and pulled her into
his arms. “Shall we,” he asked kissing her neck, then her shoulder. She took his
hand and led him to their bedroom. “So, what did you get for dinner,” Angel
asked. He laid down on top of her. “Doesn’t matter. It’s in the oven,” Mark said
kissing her. “Not hungry now eh,” Angel teased. He kissed her hard as she
pulled his towel off of him. They made love then curled up together. Mark went
downstairs and brought dinner upstairs to Angel. They were inseparable. “This
is what weekends should be like,” Mark said. “So true,” Angel replied. “No
more fights okay,” he asked. “Then no need to make up Mark,” Angel replied.
“Forgot about that part. My favorite part. Okay. No going to bed angry then,”
he suggested. “I think we can make sure of that,” Angel said. After dinner, they
played around a while together, then took Goldie for her last walk of the night.
They came home and curled back up in bed together and made love one last time
that weekend. “And it only gets better,” they both said.

58. 2
Chapter 8
The next day, Mark dropped Angel at work then headed into work himself. He
got most of his important work done that morning. The afternoon was going to
be filled with planning for her birthday. His friend had leant him his boat for the
weekend. It slept 6 and was beautiful. Now for her party. He’s called Angel’s
favorite restaurant and booked it for 30. Next, he called Raven to get her help
planning it. “Nothing huge. Don’t let her know about it either. Just a nice
dinner with her friends. Her parents and mine will be here too as well as my
sisters and brother and her brother and sister-in-law. If you have any questions
let me know. I called Amoré and they have us booked for 30 people for 7pm on
the Friday before her birthday. The rest is up to you ladies,” Mark said. “I’ll see
what I can do. We’ll put something together for her. You just worry about
getting her there, and actually on time,” Raven teased. “I’ll do what I can. Talk
to you later,” Mark said. He laughed. About two minutes later, his phone rang.
“Hi Mom. How are you,” Mark asked. “Not bad son. We had a quick question.
Are we meeting Angel before or after that surprise thing,” she asked. “Before.
Your excuse for the night is you have to go to another dinner party with Dad.
We are getting together with you guys on Thursday night next week. Cara and
Dana are coming down for the party and so is Jay. Her parents are coming the
same day as you guys and her brother and sister-in-law are coming on the
Friday. The hotel is all booked and everything,” Mark said. “We just wanted to
be sure. See you Thursday next week then,” she said. “See you soon Mom. Give
Dad a hug for me,” Mark said hanging up. It was all falling into place. Angel’s
boss had given her the Friday off, and he’d taken the same from his work – one
of the bonuses of being the CEO.
The workweek went about the same as always for both Mark and Angel. Every
night, they curled up together and fell asleep in each other’s arms. Everything
seemed perfect – maybe a little too perfect. By the time the weekend rolled
around, Angel was looking forward to it. Friday had to be one of her favorite
nights with Mark. They headed out to a romantic dinner just the two of them.
Mark had chosen a posh restaurant and requested the most romantic table they
had. They came in and Mark handed her a dozen sterling roses. “Thank you
baby. They are absolutely beautiful,” Angel said kissing Mark. They chatted a
while over dinner, then headed home. When they got there, Andy was at the
door. “What are you doing here,” Mark asked. “Alarm went off. Your neighbor
said there was someone sneaking around the property. Needless to say that
she’s in custody now,” Andy said. “What do you mean she,” Angel asked.
“Lexie,” Andy said. “Where is she,” Mark asked. “In the back of the car in
cuffs,” Andy replied. Angel held his hand. “I’ll be right back,” he said kissing
her and letting go of her hand. “Okay. Since he won’t tell me,” Angel said
staring right at Andy. “Don’t even go there. You talk to him,” Andy said.

59. 2
“What the hell did you think you were doing,” Mark asked. “I needed to talk to
you,” Lexie said. “You got the damn papers. What else is there to say,” Mark
asked. “I miss you. I didn’t want you to make a mistake with her. I want you
back baby. Please,” Lexie said. “You got your papers. When we signed them it
meant it’s over. No more running back to try to fix things. It’s done. Angel and
I are engaged okay,” Mark said. “You don’t really want her do you? I know
how much you still want me,” Lexie said. “Don’t flatter yourself. You go on
with your life and stay out of mine. Don’t come back okay? I don’t need the
stress. I am happy now. Just leave me alone,” Mark said walking away and back
to Angel. “Everything cool,” Andy asked. “Get her out of here okay? She needs
to stay away. I told her to move on. Done. I’m going inside,” Mark said. Angel
grabbed his hand as Goldie came running outside. “Took her for a wander
around for you. Figured you would be pissed when you saw this. She got in
and went through some of your stuff,” Andy said. “Just get her out of here
okay,” Mark requested walking inside hand in hand with Angel. Goldie ran in
behind them.
“Sit,” Angel said. “Do we have to do this tonight,” Mark asked. “One and only
one question. What did she want and why was she here,” Angel asked. “She
wants to try to work on things, meaning she needs money. She was searching
for a key to the safe downstairs in my office. I changed it after she left. There’s
only one key and it’s on me 24-7. She heard about the engagement and freaked,”
Mark said. “She doesn’t even look like the same person I used to know. She’s a
mess,” Angel said. “That she is,” Mark said. “Thank god that will never be
you.” He pulled her into his lap. “I think the craziness is done for the night. I’m
sorry it had to ruin our night,” Mark said. “Who said it did,” Angel said kissing
him. He wrapped his arms around her. She climbed off his lap and put her
flowers in water. The minute she put them down, he carried her upstairs.
He placed her down on the bed and kissed her. “One more week,” Mark said.
“Until what,” Angel replied. “Until your birthday. Any ideas yet,” Mark asked.
“Nope. As long as I get to spend some time with you, I’m good. I don’t really
feel like celebrating big this year,” Angel said. “Made a reservation for us for
dinner on the Friday,” Mark said. “Sounds perfect,” Angel said as he wrapped
his arms around her. “So what day did you say your parents were coming,”
Mark asked knowing full well what the answer was. “They said Thursday
around 2. I gave them the directions to the hotel. Told them we’d meet them
there at dinner,” Angel said. “Same here. Any ideas about where to take them,”
Mark said. “Devil’s Eatery,” Angel said. “Good idea. They’d love it,” Mark
replied. “I’ll make the reservation on Monday,” he said. He slowly unbuttoned
her sweater. “I missed you today,” Mark said. “Missed you too,” Angel said as
he kissed her stomach and moved towards her lips. Just before he kissed her he

60. 2
stopped. “What,” Angel said. “Were you going to tell me about the test,” Mark
asked. “What test,” Angel replied. “The one in the red bag in the garbage can,”
he replied. “It was negative. There was nothing to tell,” Angel said kissing him.
“Is that why you asked me about having kids,” he asked. “No. I asked you
because it’s something I really want. It’s important to me,” Angel said. “We
could try,” Mark said kissing her. “Or at least practice,” Angel teased. He slid
her sweater and the rest of her clothes off and threw his clothes to the ground.
They made love that night then curled up together. “So how many,” Mark
asked. “How many what,” Angel asked snuggling close to him. “How many
little ones,” he asked. “Two,” Angel asked. “Surprising. Would have thought
you wanted 3 or 4,” Mark teased. “Unless you are carrying two, I doubt it,”
Angel teased turning to face him. “We’ll see about that,” Mark said kissing her.
The next day and afternoon were spent playing with Goldie. Mark had errands
to run, so Angel spent the day on the beach with the puppy. “I have to find
something that will knock her off her feet,” Mark said to the jeweler. He pulled
out a few suggestions, then something caught Mark’s eye. “That one. It’s
perfect,” Mark said. He left the store with his little blue box in his pocket and
hid it in the glove box of the car. He headed home and Goldie came running to
the gate. “Well hello there. Where’s Angel,” Mark asked. The puppy ran to the
door. “Hey baby. I’m home,” Mark said. He heard Angel’s music playing
upstairs. Goldie ran up the steps to the bathroom. Mark slipped his jeans and
tee off, then headed into the bathroom to surprise Angel. She was out cold in the
tub. He slid in behind her and she woke up. “Was wondering when you’d be
home,” Angel said. He warmed up the water. “You looked so cute in here. Had
to join you,” Mark said. He wrapped his arms around Angel and kissed her.
“Where’s Goldie,” Angel asked. “Downstairs. She was playing outside when I
got home,” Mark said. “Oh. Okay,” Angel said. She leaned back and relaxed.
“So. Any more thought to what you wanted to do next weekend? We both have
Friday off next week,” Mark asked hoping she’d give him some sort of answer.
“Being somewhere quiet and relaxing would be nice. No stress for a whole
weekend. Anything really,” Angel said. “Let me see what I can do,” Mark said
wrapping his arms around her holding her breasts in his hands. “So what we up
to tonight,” Angel asked. “Rented a movie or two that we can watch in our
room,” Mark suggested. “Ah. Pajama party,” Angel teased. “If that’s what you
want to call it,” Mark replied. “Tease fest,” Angel said. “Master of tease battle,”
Mark said. “That could be fun,” Angel said. “Should I declare myself the
winner now?” “Ooh. A challenge. We’ll have to see about that,” Mark said.
Angel got up and out of the bathtub, slipping her satin robe on. “Starting now
are we,” Mark asked. She motioned for him to follow her. He grabbed his towel
and followed.

61. 2
He went into the bedroom and sat down, pulling his jeans on. Angel still had on
her robe. Her music was still going. He had a feeling. His feeling was right.
“Starting now,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. She lit her candles. She walked
towards him. “No you aren’t. Tell me you…” She kissed him, then danced for
him. Every time he tried to touch her she backed away. When the song was
done, she pulled her robe on and headed for the door. “Oh hell no you aren’t,”
Mark said. She went downstairs and started making dinner. He came up behind
her. “When did I tell you that you could leave the room,” he asked. Angel
backed him up to the counter. “What’s wrong Mark? Know you are going to
lose,” Angel teased. She leaned in to kiss him then turned back towards the
other counter. She grabbed herself some strawberries and whipped cream and
headed upstairs. He came up the steps behind her. The minute she reached the
top step, he picked her up and carried her back to bed. He took the bowl from
her hands and put it on the counter. “My turn,” Mark said. “Go ahead and try
to top that,” Angel said. He kissed her hard and pinned her to the bed. “One
thing first,” Mark said. He slipped the belt off from her robe. He kissed her
knee, then slowly worked his way upwards. He licked and teased until her body
gave into him. He kissed her stomach, her abs, then kissed her. “Want me don’t
you,” he asked. “Always,” Angel replied whispering in his ear as she nibbled his
earlobe. They made love and it was so passionate, she could barely believe it.
After, he curled up with her. “So. 1-1 is the score,” Mark teased. “Try 2-1 for
me,” Angel said. “I will win you know. Competitive to the end,” Mark said.
“We’ll see,” Angel said. He wrapped a leg around her and pulled her close to
him. “You know we could be in a tie breaker all weekend at this rate,” Mark
said. “A challenge. Good plan,” Angel said. He kissed her neck hard and ran
his hand over her breasts. “All mine,” Mark said nibbling her shoulder. “You
think so do you,” Angel said.
They made dinner on their BBQ outside. As soon as they finished, Mark took
Goldie for a walk and round two started. Angel was already upstairs when
Mark came back in. He heard music and headed upstairs. He sat down on the
bed and pulled his shirt and shoes off. She came out in her robe. “Round two,”
Mark said as Angel walked towards him. “Oh I know. I intend to win,” Angel
teased. “And how are you doing that,” Mark asked. “Lay down,” Angel asked.
He did. She cuffed him to the bedpost. “Totally unfair,” he said. “No rules to
go by,” Angel said. She blew out the candles and made the room completely
dark. “Damn. How the hell do I top this,” Mark said. “So I guess you declare
me the winner now do you,” Angel asked. She pulled his jeans off. “If I do, we
rematch next weekend,” Mark said. “That I could definitely do,” Angel said. He
could feel her breath on him. He knew where she was. Exactly where she was.
“Damn. You are definitely full of surprises,” Mark said. He felt her breath on
him and his body reacted. She undid the cuffs. He reached to find her. He felt
lace. Then moved down. “Now where did that come from,” he asked. She

62. 2
kissed him. “Red bag,” Angel whispered. He could feel her move. “Okay. You
win already,” Mark said. “Nope. Not done yet,” Angel said. He felt something
slip over his eyes. “Don’t touch,” Angel said. He felt her tongue on him. “Shit.
Unfair advantage,” Mark said. He felt her near him and pulled her to him. He
kissed her breasts and tried to talk her into stopping. “Nope. Not done yet. She
kissed him right down his torso. He felt her breath near him again. “No. Not…
shit. Baby….please,” Mark said. By the time she stopped, he was begging. He
pulled the blindfold off and made love to her. “Okay, you win. I give in,” Mark
said as he started to make love to her. “Can’t top that eh,” Angel teased. “We
still have tomorrow,” Mark said.
After, he wrapped his arms around her and wrapped her legs around him.
“Where in the world did you figure out how much I liked the garters,” Mark
asked. “Lingerie shopping with you gave it away,” Angel teased. “You
remember back that far? That was like a month after we met when we met for
coffee,” Mark said. “Long memory,” Angel said. “What else do you remember,”
he asked. “The first time you kissed me,” she said. He kissed her neck then
moved down. “First kiss where,” he teased. “When we met that first night.
When you walked me to the car trying to talk me into coming home with you,”
Angel said. He moved down her torso. “The cologne you were wearing the first
night we were together,” Angel said. He teased her and kissed her. “The first
time you did that,” Angel said as he licked. He kissed his way back to her lips.
“What cologne was it,” he whispered. “Sexual,” Angel replied. “I remember
because every time I went out with the girls after that, I had to stop and smell it.”
Mark smiled. He kissed her hard and wrapped his arms tight around her. When
he broke the kiss he moved back down to her breasts. “I remember the first time
you told me you loved the way I kiss,” Angel said. “Still do and always will,”
Mark said. They made love again that night. She was the champion of tease that
night, but as Mark pointed out…..it was only Saturday night.
The next day Angel woke up to Mark kissing her. He teased her to no end then
moved up to kiss her lips. “Good morning to you too,” Angel said kissing him
back. “Figured the day should be started right,” Mark said. His hand slid down
to continue the tease. She kissed him hard. When he finally broke the kiss, she
whispered, “I want you,” in his ear. They made love. He took his time with
everything. “I don’t think I could ever live without this,” Mark said. “Me
neither,” Angel whispered in his ear. After, they laid on the bed still entangled.
“You really are full of surprises,” Mark said. “And there are ones you haven’t
even seen yet,” Angel said. “Just think. One more week until your birthday,”
Mark said. The phone rang. Angel grabbed it. “Hi. Yes this is Angel. Oh
hey…. Awesome…..perfect. I will. See you Thursday then,” Angel said hanging
up. “Date,” Mark asked. “Dress is in. Was going to take my mom and your
mom down to see it before dinner on Thursday,” Angel said. “Really,” Mark

63. 2
said. “Yep. Came up with a good idea too,” Angel said. The phone rang again.
“Hey….yep. She just called to tell me….they are? Perfect…..yep. That’s the
date….I know. I’ll call you later,” Angel said hanging up. “What are you up to,”
Mark asked. Decided on a better day for the wedding,” Angel said. “My only
other suggestion was new year’s eve,” Mark said. Angel smiled and kissed him.
“Whoa. Are you serious,” Mark asked. She slipped on her robe and kissed him.
She went in and got cleaned up before she went downstairs for breakfast. “Five
months from now new years,” Mark asked. “December 31 this year,” Angel said.
“Outside on our beach, with our friends and fireworks,” Angel said. “I
remember coming down here one year with my girlfriends for new years and
watching the fireworks. It’s perfect. It’s simple, romantic and quiet. Just us. We
can have the reception here. It’s easier than I thought,” Angel said. He picked
her up and kissed her.
“So I take it you like the idea,” Angel said as he held her tight. “It’s perfect. We
can start next year right. Start over together,” Mark said. “That’s the idea. We
can have new years with our friends and family, then spend two weeks
completely alone just you and me,” Angel said. “I take it that we would be
continuing the battle of the teases,” Mark said sitting her on the counter. “Or
practicing making babies,” Angel said. He kissed her hard. “I love you,” he
said. “I love you too,” Angel said. He kissed her again and they headed
downstairs for breakfast.
Mark and Angel headed out for a little while that afternoon to go through
invitations and flowers. They picked both out easily, then headed off to talk to a
caterer they’d heard a lot about. After an entire afternoon of samples and
shopping, they headed home. They had a caterer, flowers, invitations and the
dress. “Did you ask any of the girls to be in the wedding party,” Mark asked.
“Raven, Alicia, Aubrey and Lee are going to be in the wedding party as well as
Lee’s daughter as a flower girl,” Angel said. “Thought it all out haven’t you,”
Mark said as they pulled into the driveway. “What about you,” Angel asked.
“Andy, Rodney, Tony and my brother, then my nephew as ring boy if that’s
okay,” Mark said. “I guess we better tell them then,” Angel said. Angel had
already told everyone but her friend Lee. “I’d be honored girl,” Lee said. And
bring Bree. Perfect flower girl,” Angel said. “Done,” Lee replied. “New years
eve this year. It’s going to be on the beach here. We’re going to do the ceremony
before dinner, then have dinner and party until the fireworks start,” Angel said.
“Awesome. See you then. When’s the engagement party,” she asked. “Not sure.
Will let you know. He is a sweetheart Lee. Better than I could have ever
imagined,” Angel said as they hung up.
“I know. A little early to be thinking about it, but it’s perfect. All my boys
together again,” Mark teased. “Definitely having a bachelor party for you. Tell

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her you want a night off,” Tony said. “Oh hell no. No strippers guys. Definitely
no,” Mark said. “One night. Nothing will happen, that is unless Jade is there,”
Andy said. “Stop. No. Dignified guys night. None of that crap. So you all up
for it,” Mark asked. “Deal,” they said. Mark made the call to his brother and he
agreed to it. “See you this weekend big brother,” he said. “See you,” Mark
replied.
Mark was on the phone with his parents when Angel came back downstairs.
“Yes mom. 31st of December this year……no. I think we have everything
organized…..yes…..that too…….if you want mom, but you don’t have to……
that’s going to be done in the next week or two……..okay…….” He tried, but
was unsuccessful in getting out of the phone call. She pulled his belt off. He
muted the phone. Angel kissed him and pressed mute to un-mute the call. She
unbuttoned his shirt. “Yes…..I know……It’s taken care of……this week.” She
kissed his chest, his neck. She took his hand and led him to his sofa. She sat in
his lap wrapping her legs around him. “Yep. She’s right here. One sec mom,”
Mark said handing the phone to Angel. He kissed her hard and leaned her back
onto the sofa. “Hi…..very excited…….I can’t wait either……have a surprise
when you get here…….taking you and my mom to see the dress……yes….
picked it out this week…….nope. Alone……..found something you might like as
well that I can show you two……..great. See you Thursday.” Mark pulled the
belt open from her robe and kissed her stomach. His hand slid between her legs.
“I can’t wait to meet you either,” Angel said. “Okay. See you then. Bye,” Angel
said hanging up and kissing Mark knocking the phone to the ground. “Shortest
ever mom call I’ve experienced,” Mark said kissing her. She was getting the
reaction he was hoping for. She pulled his button undone from his jeans and slid
them off him with her feet. He licked and teased until she pulled him to her.
They made love, then he carried her upstairs to bed. “Where’s Goldie,” Angel
asked. As she said it, Goldie hopped onto the bed. “Hey baby girl,” Mark said.
“You know what she’s thinking don’t you,” Angel said. “Be back in 30. Don’t
move or else,” Mark said.
By the time he got back from the walk with Goldie, Angel had made dinner for
them. “About time,” Angel teased. “My fave,” Mark said as they sat down to
dinner. “One of them anyway,” Angel said. “Ooh you are in for it after dinner,”
Mark said. They both had grins on their faces and couldn’t help but laugh.
Goldie fell asleep 10 minutes into dinner. “Tired her out did you,” Angel said.
“We ran from here down to the pier and back. Never realized how hyper she
was until tonight,” Mark said. They finished their dinner, and Angel cleaned up.
“So, who’s going to win round 3,” Mark teased. “Don’t even think that you
will,” Angel teased. He wrapped his arms around her as she dried the dishes.
He kissed her neck and shoulder. “Besides. Didn’t I say don’t move or else,”
Mark said as Angel put the last dish away. “And what would or else be,” Angel

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asked. Mark flipped her over his shoulder. “Put me down,” Angel said. “Nope.
Mine,” he said. He came into the bedroom and locked the door behind him. He
put her on the bed. “Oh just give up already. You know I won,” Angel teased.
Angel could smell one candle burning, and the room was still dark. She could
smell lilac. “Oils,” she thought to herself. She reached under the pillow to find
her final item to clinch the win. She put it on before he turned to face her. He
put the candle on the foot stand. She looked up at him. He kissed her hard
causing goose bumps from head to toe. He went to slip her robe off, and noticed
what she’d done. “Oh really,” Mark said. “Told you. I am the master, Angel
said.
The chocolate body paint she’d strategically painted on herself was revealed to
him and he gave in. “My turn,” Mark said. He put the blindfold on Angel. He
had picked up a few things while he was out. He was determined to win. He
teased her to the point of her pulling him to her. He pinned her hands to the
bed. “Not done yet,” he said. The wax from the candle pooled in the center of
the candle. He was tempted. He grabbed the champagne and opened it. It was
definitely cold. He pulled off the blindfold. “What are you thinking,” Angel
teased as he leaned down to kiss her. He held the candle in his hand. “Go
ahead. If I get it, so do you,” Angel said teasingly. He dripped it on making a
heart on her hipbone. He poured the champagne on top of it and licked it off.
He kissed her hard and she wrapped her legs around him. “4-2,” Mark said.
“4-3 Angel replied. “Ooh. Extra points,” Mark teased. She kissed him and she
flipped him on his back. “No fair. We were almost even,” Mark said. She
pulled the wax routine on him but made it worse. The champagne dulled the
burn, and she made sure that everything felt better. She dribbled the champagne,
then licked it off. “Totally freakin unfair,” Mark said as he was at her mercy.
She poured a glass for them as he sat up with her legs wrapped around him
again. “I swear. I will win the rematch,” Mark said kissing her. They sipped
their champagne. He took her glass, placing it back on the foot stand and pinned
her back down. “You play dirty don’t you,” Mark said. “Only with you,” Angel
said. They made love again and entangled themselves until they were both in
need of a nap.
“Fun practicing isn’t it,” Mark teased. “Damn. At this rate, if we did have kids it
would be 4 at a time.” Angel laughed. “Twins run in the family you know,”
Mark said. “There aren’t two of you in the world causing havoc are there,”
Angel teased. “No. My cousins on my mom’s side are mostly twins,” Mark said.
“Thanks for the warning,” Angel teased. “Wouldn’t be so bad would it,” Mark
asked as he kissed Angel’s breasts again. “No, except you’d have to share with
them,” Angel said. “Forget it then. I don’t do sharing,” Mark said kissing Angel
as she wrapped her arms around him. “Good. Guess we have one more thing in
common. I don’t share either. Ever,” Angel said.

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Chapter 9
Angel got up Monday morning and headed into work. She left a note for Mark
on her pillow:
Love you. See you tonight. Went in early so I could get home
sooner – Angel
Mark slept in. He was exhausted from the weekend. He still had a lot to do for
the weekend, so he called in saying he was going to work from home. He called
a friend of Angel’s to find a minister for the wedding. Mark booked him. “I
think we’ll probably write our own vows. Will definitely be a tear-jerking
ceremony,” Mark said. “Yes or no to the candle,” he asked. “Definitely yes, but
might want to put something around it so they don’t blow out. It will be by the
water,” Mark said. “Note taken. Anything else,” he asked. “Nope. 4:30 on the
31st. You know how to get to the house right,” Mark asked. “I’ll get directions.
Do you think we could organize a sit down before then to talk with you and
Angel,” he asked. “No prob. Sometime in September,” Mark said. “Talk to you
soon then.” “Talk to you soon. Have a great week,” Mark said hanging up. He
was the minister that had baptized Angel when she was a baby. She told him
she’d always dreamt of him doing the ceremony. “One more thing off her list,”
Mark said. He started a conference call around 10, that finally ended at almost 3.
Once it was over, Angel came in. “I see you stayed home,” Angel said. “Goldie
and I had a daddy-puppy day. I took her out this morning during a call.” “How
was your day then daddy,” Angel said. “Awesome. Got a surprise for you,”
Mark said. “What’s that,” Angel said grabbing some water from the fridge.
“Got the minister you wanted to come do the ceremony. He said he wants to
come meet with us in September, but he will be here to do the ceremony,” Mark
said. Angel almost jumped into his arms. “Are you serious? Oh my god. That’s
the best news,” Angel said kissing Mark. “So why are you in such a good mood
today,” Mark asked. “Full day at work, no stress. Could it get better,” Angel
said. “Yep. Full day, ducking out early to come home to your fiancée,” Mark
said.
They took Goldie out for a walk and snuggled as they wandered down the
beach. “Three more days of fun before the parents come,” Mark said. “I know. I
really am looking forward to meeting your mom though,” Angel said. “She’s in
a league all her own I tell you,” Mark said. “And I know my parents will love
you. My mom always told me that James and I were a mistake and that I should
try again to meet someone who’s caring and loving. How could she not love
you,” Angel said. They headed home and sat down on the beach. Goldie played
in the waves. “I can’t imagine anything better than this. I never really

67. 2
appreciated all this until I met you,” Mark said. “I never realized how happy I
could be until we met,” Angel said. Mark kissed her and cuddled with her
watching the sun go down. “Dinner,” he asked. Angel nodded. They watched
the end of the sunset then headed out for a quiet dinner. Mid-way through
dinner, he asked her to dance. She agreed and they slow danced on the dance
floor. “This just feels right doesn’t it,” Angel said. “More than right,” Mark said.
He kissed her and they finished their dance. When they got back, dinner was on
the table. “I just realized. We haven’t got a DJ,” Angel said. “Got a point there.
What about my friend Smith,” Mark suggested. “He wouldn’t be busy? It is
new years,” Angel said. They had dinner, then called Mark’s friend. “It will be
my gift to you. Will bring whatever you want dude. Congrats,” he said.
“Done,” Mark said hanging up. “I think everything is done then,” Angel said.
“Everything that can be done ahead yes,” Mark said. “Right…..honeymoon
practice,” Angel whispered in his ear as they got up to head home.
They came to the door and went into the TV room to play with Goldie. “She has
grown so much hasn’t she,” Mark said. “Definitely. She’s almost becoming a big
girl,” Angel replied. They both started to yawn. “I guess last night tired both of
us out,” Mark said. “Not quite,” Angel said. She slid into his lap. “Oh really,”
he said. He kissed her and they curled up on the sofa making out like teenagers.
“Bed,” Angel said. Mark nodded and they headed to bed. Goldie followed them
up the steps and went to her bed in the window seat. The minute they got to the
bedroom, they both forgot how tired they were. They made love over and over
until they were completely exhausted. They curled up under the blankets and
fell asleep curled up side by side.
The next morning, Angel and Mark both woke up when they heard the alarm go
off. Goldie was barking at the door. Mark went and answered it. It was Lexie.
“What the hell are you doing here at this time of the morning,” Mark asked as
she pushed her way in. Angel came downstairs. “I know you don’t want to do
this in front of her,” Lexie said. “Do what? She is my fiancée and you are my ex.
What,” Mark said. “I know you still want me. Admit it,” she said. “Anyway,”
Mark said walking away. She grabbed him by the collar of his robe and kissed
him. Angel walked over. “I suggest you leave before I kick your…” Mark
pulled Angel back. “Get out of here. You are fucked up and you know it. What
the hell did you take last night,” Mark asked. “You already know,” Lexie said.
“Get out. Go find someone else to screw with,” Mark said walking her to the
door. Angel was right behind him. “Touch him and you lose the lips,” Angel
said. “You know Mark. You know how bad you want this,” she said. “Get out
of here and off my damn property. What the hell did you do, jump the damn
fence,” Mark said slamming the door. He went and washed his face. “She was
trashed. It’s damn near 6 am. What the hell,” he said. Angel was quiet. “See
what I mean? She needs help big time,” Mark said. “Maybe she does love you

68. 2
Mark,” Angel said. “Maybe, but I am marrying the sexiest and master of tease
woman there is in this room right now,” he said kissing Angel. “Good to know
you can bow to the master,” Angel joked. “Oh really,” he said. They started
joking around and Goldie stared at them awaiting her walk. “I’ll take her. Be
back in 10,” he said. Angel made breakfast and coffee, and they sat down and
ate when he got back. “I guess we both have to go in today. I may go in for a
few hours then come home and work from here. Was kind of nice yesterday,”
Mark said.
They headed off to work for 8:30. Mark dropped Angel at her office, then
headed in to his office. There was a package on his desk from Andy. He opened
it. It was a record of every complaint Angel had made against James. “She
wasn’t kidding,” Mark said to himself. “Coffee sir,” his assistant asked. “Sure.
Decaf though,” Mark said. His assistant second-guessed him. “You never have
decaf,” she said. “Decaf please,” Mark said. She went and grabbed him coffee
and the morning paper. He finished going through the papers that Andy had
sent and went through the paper. When he put it down, Lexie was at his desk.
“What the hell?” He closed the door. “What the hell do you want? You can’t
cause any more crap than you already have. What do you want now,” Mark
asked. She got up and walked around his desk. “Don’t even think it. Not yours
to play with anymore,” Mark said. “You still miss me though,” She said as she
leaned into him. “No I don’t. I don’t know what language you are going to
understand this in. Get lost. Go back to your home planet. I am taken. Not
yours. Got it,” Mark said. She kissed him hard. There were feelings there, but
they were muddled by anger and deceit. He pushed her away after a minute or
two. “Go or I am calling security,” Mark said. “Told you. I knew you still
wanted me,” Lexie said as she turned and walked out. He wiped the lipstick off
with a quick wipe and started getting some work done. At lunchtime, Angel
called to see how his day was. “I’ll tell you later. God I miss you,” Mark said.
“Took tomorrow off as well as Friday,” Angel said. “Working from home
tomorrow then myself,” he said. “Good. Love you,” Angel said. “Love you too
sweetheart,” Mark said as they hung up.
At the end of the day, Mark picked Angel up and they headed home. “Thought
you were working from home this afternoon,” Angel asked. “Was trying to. Too
many emergencies. I am working from home for the morning tomorrow. One
conference call, then I am all yours,” Mark said. “Which reminds me. Figured
out what I wanted for my birthday,” Angel said. “What’s that,” Mark asked.
“Tell you later,” she whispered. “You get that every day. What else,” he teased
with a smirk. He kissed her at the last light before the house.
They pulled into the drive and took Goldie for a wander on the beach. “Got a
surprise for you for the wedding too,” Angel said. She worked in an

69. 2
entertainment law firm. It had to be something big. “Tell me,” he said. “Nope,”
Angel replied. He chased her down the beach and caught her kissing her.
“Hint,” he said. “Follow me,” Angel said heading inside. Goldie ran in to get
her dinner, and Angel flipped on a CD. She flipped on a song that they had
danced to the night they met. “That’s my hint,” he said. He thought about it.
“You couldn’t have…..could you? Tell me she isn’t singing at the wedding,” he
said. Angel smiled. “You are amazing you know that,” Mark said kissing her.
“She said she’d love to if she could bring her boyfriend. Told her the more the
merrier,” Angel said. “The perfect thing to add,” Mark said. “Our first song,”
Angel replied.
They finished dinner and cleaned up then curled up outside in the gazebo. “So
what was the thing you figured out you wanted,” Mark asked. “Swing in here
for us,” Angel said. “That could be done,” Mark said laughing to himself. He’d
already thought of it and it would be up by the time they got home off the boat.
Goldie was running around in the back yard. She ran up to the gate and barked.
“Goldie,” Angel said. She continued to bark. It was Tony. “Hey. How are
you,” Angel said opening the gate for him. Goldie barked and begged for him to
rub her tummy. “Was in the neighborhood. Can I talk to you for a second
Mark,” he asked. “Come inside with mommy Goldie,” Angel said kissing Mark.
“I’ll meet you inside,” Angel said going inside with Goldie.
“What’s up,” Mark asked. “Heard something today that I think you might want
to know about,” Tony said. “What’s that,” Mark asked. “Lexie. She was taken
to the hospital this afternoon,” Tony said. “And? She was either stoned or
trashed this morning and even worse when she showed up at my work,” Mark
said. “She tried to commit suicide and was found at 10. She almost succeeded,”
Tony said. “I tried when we were together. She wouldn’t get help. She kept
asking for money. I had to cut her off. The point stands that I am not her
husband anymore. Don’t want to be either. Call her mom and dad. Tell them.
They’ll come to her rescue like they always do,” Mark said. “I thought you
needed to know. She said that if she couldn’t be with you she didn’t want to
live,” Tony said. “She’s talking crazy. Always has. She had a few years where
she wasn’t crazy. After the miscarriage she went ballistic. That’s when she
started screwing around. I don’t want to hear about her anymore okay? Just
help me keep her away,” Mark said. “I will. Her parents asked if I could talk
you into coming to the hospital,” Tony said. “But I guess that would be a no.”
“You got it. Give them my regards, but hell no,” Mark said. “On a happier note,
we started planning your bachelor party,” Tony said. “Tell me that Andy didn’t
decide on a strip club. Tell me someone talked him out of it,” Mark said. “Nope.
He wouldn’t budge. VIP room at Venom,” Tony said. “What do you think my
chances are of dodging that bullet,” Mark teased. “Slim to none. He’s

70. 2
determined,” Tony joked. “See you Friday night,” Mark joked as he walked
Tony to his SUV. “See you,” Tony said pulling away.
Mark came inside and went upstairs to the bedroom. Angel was curled up in
bed her in pink satin teddy reading. “Sorry about that beautiful,” he said pulling
his shirt and pants off. “What you reading,” he asked. “Oh nothing,” Angel said
closing the book. He pulled it from her hands. “Oh really. And how did you
sneak this one in without me knowing,” he asked. “Red bag,” they both said
laughing. “I guess we’ll be reading this one together won’t we,” he said. “101
ways to please him in bed. Like you need this.” “Interesting ideas though,”
Angel said as he leaned over and kissed her. “Don’t need anything like that. All
I need is you,” he said. “Bet you I can totally tease you with just reading one
section to you,” Angel said. “Don’t start,” he said. “Game on,” Angel asked.
“It’s Sunday. Last round,” Mark said. “Even better, I ‘ll try this one. I bet you,”
Angel said. “And what if I win,” he asked. “Ooh. Bets eh? Okay. You win, you
get one night of anything you want, uninterrupted,” Angel said. “And if you
win, one night of anything you want, no interruptions,” Mark said. “Deal,”
Angel replied. As she was about to pull out the ‘heavy artillery’ as Mark called
it, the phone rang.
“Hello? Hey Andy…..yep. Right here,” Angel said handing the phone to Mark.
She turned the light out and pulled his jeans off. “Tease,” Mark said grabbing
the phone from her hand. “Hey Andy….she what? Are you serious? Dude. I
know it’s not a good thing, but damn,” Mark said. Angel put her plan into
action. “Yeah. Thanks……you too,” Mark said hanging up. He felt her breath
on him. He pulled her body to him taking her breast in his mouth. He felt
fingertips. “What is that sound,” Mark asked. Within a minute or two he
figured it out. “Damn. Surpris….sur…surprises,” he stuttered. Her torso
moved out of his reach. “Damn. And this was…….only the ……beginning of
the……..book?” His muscles tensed and she leaned forward and kissed him.
His heart was racing. “You are in for it,” Mark said. He felt her body move
away from him. His eyes had adapted to the light. “Get over here,” He said.
“Think I will grab a drink. Wine,” Angel teased heading to the door. He got up
and pinned her against the wall. “You aren’t going anywhere,” he said as he
leaned against her. He felt satin. It wasn’t her robe. He felt her stomach. “Oh
hell. You aren’t even going to be making it out of bed tomorrow,” Mark teased.
“Looking forward to it,” Angel teased back. He turned her to face him and
picked her up wrapping her legs around him. They made love then tried to calm
their racing hearts. “Damn I don’t know if I can top that one,” Mark said. “So
what did Andy want,” Angel asked. “Lexie’s in the psycho ward. She tried to
commit suicide again,” Mark said. “What do you mean again,” Angel asked.
“Second time in two weeks,” he said. “Why didn’t you tell me about this,”
Angel asked. “It’s in the past and I want it left there,” Mark said. He kissed

71. 2
Angel. “So, your turn to bring it on,” Angel teased. He kissed her hard. She
heard a click. “Copycat,” Angel said. She felt warm come across her skin that
got warmer. “Warming oil eh,” Angel asked. He kissed her hard again. He
moved down, slowly licking the warm liquid from her skin. “Mmmm,” Angel
said as he licked and nibbled.
He moved away and she pulled him back with her legs. He kissed her until he
reached her lips again, then made love to her. “Okay. We are having a break
tomorrow,” Mark said. “Exhausted aren’t you,” Angel said as he laid his head
on her chest and undid the cuffs. “Need nap,” he said. They curled up under
the blankets and were asleep in minutes.
Angel woke up the next morning with Mark still curled up close to her, and
Goldie at her feet. The moment she moved, his hand slid down her torso.
“Mark,” Angel said as she felt his breath on her neck. “Good morning,” he
whispered as his fingers trailed between her legs. She couldn’t help but go along
with it. “Damn good way to start it,” she said. They made love that morning,
then got up to take Goldie for a walk. She ran around on the beach, and Mark
and Angel curled up in a beach chair kissing. Every pair that walked by them
smiled. By the time Goldie came back to the chair where they were, their
stomachs were growling for breakfast. They headed back in and made breakfast,
then Angel hopped into the bubble bath and Mark got some work finished. He
came up a little while later and warmed up the water, slipping in with Angel. “I
think I may need another nap,” Angel said. “Too comfortable or still tired,”
Mark asked. “Both,” Angel said kissing him. They hopped out of the tub after
the water cooled again and hopped back into bed. She fell asleep in his arms.
When she woke up, he wasn’t in bed. Goldie was on the bed. Angel pulled her
robe on and headed downstairs. He was at his computer working. “Conference
call right,” Angel asked. He nodded. She went into the kitchen and made them
lunch and brought some to him. He kissed her and finished his call, then came
and sat with her outside. “They’ll be here in an hour,” Mark said. “We picking
them up,” Angel asked. “My parents are getting a car. We can pick up your
parents,” Mark suggested. They finished lunch and got changed to pick her
parents up.
The minute they walked off the plane, they saw Angel and Mark. “She looks so
happy,” her mom said. “And she definitely deserves it,” her dad said. They
headed over to her and gave her a hug. “Mom and Dad, this is Mark. Mark,
these are my parents,” Angel said still hand in hand with him. “Nice to meet
you,” they all said. Her mom hugged Mark. “Welcome to the family,” she said.
“Thanks,” he said as they headed over to get the bags. As they came to the
turnstile, Mark’s parents were grabbing their bags. “Hey there strangers,” he
said as he walked over to them to hug them. “So this is your princess,” his mom

72. 2
said. “Yep. This is Angel. Angel, this is my mom and dad. You guys have great
timing too. Angel’s parents just got here,” Mark said. They headed over and the
introductions were done. “It’s too bad that the brothers and sisters couldn’t
come. Would have been perfect,” Angel said. Mark smiled and so did his
parents and hers.
They headed to the hotel, and checked everyone in. They met downstairs in the
lounge for a drink. When Mark and Angel’s parents finally came down, Angel
and Mark were cuddling in the lounge over a glass of wine. “Told you. I won
fair and square,” Angel said as they approached. “Come and have a seat guys,”
Mark said. They all sat down together and chatted as Crystal shared the
wedding plans with the family. “So when are we seeing the dress,” his mom
asked. “They said 4:30. It’s just around the corner,” Angel said. “You guys go.
We’ll hang out and meet you back here around 5:30,” Mark said. Angel kissed
him goodbye a few times then headed out with her mom and Mark’s.
“So…she must make you happy son,” his dad said. “Definitely, and I was lucky
to find her. She is definitely one in a million,” Mark said. “That she is,” Angel’s
dad said. The guys hung out and talked business.
“Here’s the idea I had for you two for the wedding,” Angel said. “This looks
beautiful honey,” her mom said. “Shall we,” the moms said. They tried on their
dresses, and Angel slipped hers on. They all came out at the same time. “Oh my
goodness. You look……oh my…….you look beautiful,” they both said as they
started getting tears. “Thought that’s how you’d react. It’s perfect isn’t it,”
Angel said. “Oh my goodness Angel. You look like a princess,” his mom said.
“So what do you two think of the dresses,” Angel asked. “They fit perfectly.
Couldn’t have found a better one myself,” they replied. “That way you two sort
of blend with the bridesmaids, but stand out too,” Angel said. “I just can’t get
over your dress,” his mom said. “You have to keep in mind, there are long silk
gloves too,” Angel said. “A little old fashioned and romantic. Just like you,” her
mom said. “Okay. Let’s slip these off,” Angel said. They all got changed. “So
do you two need alterations to the dresses,” Angel asked. “Not that I know of,”
his mom replied. “One little spot,” Angel’s mom said. “I’ll take it to the
seamstress by us,” she said. “Thanks Angie,” Angel said. She came out and
handed a dress bag to each of the moms. “Our present to you two,” Angel said.
They hugged and headed back to the hotel.
They wandered in and the guys were still in the lounge. They were laughing.
“Good sign,” Angel said as the ladies laughed. They went and sat down with the
guys. Angel kissed Mark and sat down. “So how was the dress,” Mark asked.
“She’s going to make your heart stop,” his mom said. “I guess I should warn
someone then,” Mark replied as they laughed. “The dresses fit them perfectly,”

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Angel said. “You really didn’t have to do this,” Angel’s mom said. “You two
raised us. You deserve a little treat,” Angel and Mark both said. “Besides. We
want you two to stun the crowd too,” Mark said. “So how big is this again,”
Angel’s mom asked. “Max is 150. It’s all going to be done near the house on the
beach,” Angel said. “Sounds very romantic,” his mom said. “Trying to make it
that way anyway,” Mark said kissing Angel. “I don’t think I have seen you this
happy in years,” Mark’s dad said. “I know we haven’t seen Angel happy like
this in years,” her dad said. “Why don’t we head to dinner,” Angel said trying to
change the topic. “Good idea,” Mark said taking her hand. They all headed
down to the restaurant. “Still love me,” Mark whispered in her ear. “Show you
later,” she teased. He wrapped his arms around her neck and kissed her upside
down. “Okay spidey,” Angel teased. They headed into the restaurant.
“Hello Mr. Heart. Your table is right over here. As per your request,” the host
said. They sat down to dinner and spent the night chatting. Everyone got along
well which made both Angel and Mark happy. By the time dinner was finished,
Mark’s parents had volunteered to take Angel’s parents out and show them
around. Angel and Mark headed home.
“So, change your mind about marrying into my crazy family yet,” Mark asked.
“Nope. You,” Angel asked as they headed home. “Never,” he said. “Your dad
is awesome,” Mark said. Angel smiled and kissed him as he pulled into the
drive. They took Goldie out for her walk, then came inside and curled up
together in bed. “So this showing you were talking about,” Mark said as he
pulled her closer to him. She kissed him and wrapped her legs around him. “Oh
really,” he said. Angel nodded and kissed him again. She was hooked on his
kiss. She almost felt like she couldn’t live without it. “So. Now that we have
tomorrow off, anything you want to do,” Mark asked. Angel nodded and kissed
him. “Oh really. Shall we start round 4,” Mark suggested. “Already have,”
Angel said. Her hand slid out of sight. “Unfair advantage,” Mark said. Angel
shook her head. He kissed her hard, rolling her over flat on her back. They
made love and curled up together. “Just think. Four more months,” Mark said.
“Wish we didn’t have to wait that long, but since we haven’t even sent out the
invitations yet,” Angel said. “Trust me. The four months will fly by,” Mark said
kissing her. “Good point. It is busier at work during that time,” Angel said.
They fell asleep in each other’s arms and woke up to the morning sun and Goldie
trying to join in the cuddling.
They got up and took Goldie for a walk along the beach. “Beach day,” Mark
asked. Angel nodded. They headed home after their walk and had breakfast,
then spent the afternoon in the sun on the beach. “So what you feel like doing
tonight,” Mark asked. “Dinner, or dessert,” Angel asked as she retied her
bathing suit top. “Let me see if I can answer that,” Mark said. He picked her up
and carried her to bed. “Dessert first I gather,” Angel said. Mark kissed her and

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put her down on the bed. He untied her suit. “Been waiting to do that all day
haven’t you,” Angel said as he threw it to the floor. “You don’t even know,”
Mark said as he kissed her sun-tanned legs. He moved up, nibbling and licking
and teasing her. He watched her heart rate start to race. He moved closer to her
lips and kissed her. “Mark,” Angel said. “I know baby,” he said as they made
love. They curled up again together. “Why don’t we go to that Amoré place you
love,” Mark said. ‘Do you think we can actually get in tonight,” Angel asked.
“You go hop in the shower. I’ll call them and meet you in there in a minute,”
Mark said. She hopped into the shower and he called his brother. “An hour and
10 tops,” Mark said. He went into the bathroom with Angel and slipped into her
shower. “Said our favorite table was taken. They did find us a table though,”
Mark said. Angel kissed him, and he pinned her into the wall. The steam got
thicker as they had sex in the shower. They finished their shower, then got
changed and prettied up to go to dinner. There was a box laying on the bed with
a bow on it. “What’s this,” Angel asked. “Open it and see,” he said. She opened
it to find a beautiful satin slip dress. She’d been staring at it for weeks and he
bought it as a surprise. She kissed him as she slipped it on. “Perfect fit,” Mark
said wrapping his arms around her. “Full of surprises aren’t you,” Angel said.
“If you only knew,” he thought to himself. “Wanted to make your birthday
special,” Mark replied. “You make everything special,” Angel said kissing him.
“You know we’re going to be late if you don’t,” he said as she cut him off with a
kiss. “I love you too,” Mark said.
They headed out and got in the car and headed slowly to the restaurant. “Do me
a favor. Something in that damn glove box has been rattling all week. Can you
check it,” Mark said. Angel opened it and the box fell out. “What’s this,” Angel
asked. “Read the card,” Mark said. She opened it. The more she read, the more
the tears welled in her eyes. They pulled up to a red light. She kissed him and
put her head on his shoulder. “Don’t open it until we get there,” he requested.
She sat with the box in her lap with her purse until they pulled into the parking
for the restaurant. “Okay. Open it,” Mark said. He put the car in park and
turned off the engine. She opened it to find a diamond charm bracelet. “Oh my
god Mark. This is…..it’s……..it’s beautiful,” Angel said. He put the bracelet on
for her. “Now this,” he said handing her another small box. She opened it - A
diamond heart charm. He put it on the bracelet as she pulled off her seatbelt to
kiss him. She slid over onto his lap. “We can be late,” Angel said as she kissed
him hard. “We can’t. They said there was nothing any later. We have to,” Mark
said. He kissed her and delayed another 5 minutes. “I love you baby,” Angel
said. “Love you forever,” Mark replied. “And then some,” Angel said. They
hopped out of the car and he wrapped his arms around her. “Happy Birthday
beautiful,” Mark said. Angel kissed him again. “When I get you home tonight,”
Mark said. They headed into the restaurant and everyone yelled surprise. “Late
my butt,” Angel said kissing him. Everyone was there. Her friends, her entire

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family, his entire family. Everyone had shown. She went and said hi to
everyone, as Mark ordered Champagne. A little while after everyone had a
drink in hand, Mark made an announcement. “As all of you know, Angel and I
are getting married. We set a date. We wanted all of you to be here so you
knew. We are getting married on New Years eve on the beach by my house. It’s
going to be quiet, but it’s the way we want it. We hope all of you can be there.
Secondly, to the sweetest, kindest, gentlest, most loving and beautiful woman I
know, I love you. Happy Birthday my Angel,” Mark said kissing her. “Cheers,”
everyone yelled.
It was a long night for them. Everyone stayed around and enjoyed the night.
“Damn. What a birthday present,” everyone said regarding her bracelet and
charm. “He is just full of surprises today,” Angel said as Mark came up behind
her and wrapped his arms around her. “Come,” Mark sad. She followed him
with their hands linked. She looked into the room and there were birthday
presents from everyone. There was champagne, wine and other wrapped items.
She opened the presents with Mark at her side. When everything was
unwrapped, she stood up to say thank you. “Thank you all so much for such a
surprising birthday. Believe it or not, he had me believing we were out for a
romantic dinner for two. I’m glad you could all be here to celebrate with us. To
all my new family, and friends, thank you for everything,” Angel said. She
finished her champagne and kissed Mark. “One last surprise for you
tomorrow,” Mark said. “This was more than enough,” Angel said. “Let’s take
you home to bed then,” he said as she leaned against him. “Oh that’s right. You
wanted a rematch didn’t you,” Angel teased sliding a hand behind her. “Not
here,” Mark said. Her hand didn’t move, but it held him. “Don’t even think it,”
he whispered. “I think we are going to head out. Birthday girl needs her beauty
sleep,” Angel said. She said goodbye to everyone with Mark at her side as the
waiters put the gifts in the car.
The minute they came out the doors of the restaurant, they ran for the car. They
hopped in, and Angel slid onto his lap. “Not here,” Mark said. She kissed him
hard and pulled his belt off. “Don’t you dare,” Mark said. She slid over to her
seat then did the seat belt up and put her head on his shoulder. Mark headed
home as fast as possible. Her hand was in his lap. “You are so going to be in for
it when we get home,” Mark said. “Looking forward to it,” Angel said nibbling
on his earlobe. They finally got home and hopped out of the car. They locked
the presents inside and ran into the house. She kicked her heels off and he
picked her up leaning her against the wall with her legs around his waist. They
got as far as his office when he couldn’t resist anymore. She sat on the edge of
his desk. “Tell me you didn’t do what I think you did,” Mark said. She
unbuttoned his dress pants. “You did didn’t you,” Mark said. She kissed him
pulling him close to her. He couldn’t resist. They had sex on his desk, then in

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the hall, then in bed. “You know you are so asking for patty whacks,” Mark said.
“Like you could catch me to do it anyway,” Angel said. He grabbed for her and
she slipped away. She headed down the stairs. Goldie was asleep. “I have an
alternative to the patty whacks,” Mark said. Pulling her body to him. “Such as,”
Angel said sliding her hand behind her. “You are so gonna get it,” Mark said.
Angel ran up the steps with Mark trailing behind by one step. She ran into the
bedroom and hopped onto the bed. He grabbed her foot pulling her to him. He
kissed her so passionately, she almost fell to the ground. “If I’m yours, then you
are mine,” Angel said as he kissed her neck hard. “Definitely,” Mark said.
“Then I can do whatever I want,” Angel teased. She tried to slide a hand down,
and he grabbed her hand pinning it to the bed. “You are so in for it,” Mark said
kissing her. He made love to her, then pulled out surprise #4 for the night.
“You know, I could get used to being spoiled like this,” Angel said. “Plan on it,”
Mark said kissing her chest. He handed her an envelope. “What is this,” Angel
said. “Open it and find out,” Mark said. She opened it and found a postcard of a
beautiful California sunset. “What’s this,” Angel asked. “The view from where
we are going,” Mark said. “Where,” Angel asked. “Remember the boat that my
friend owns? He’s taking us out on it for the weekend. All ours. Just you, me
and the waves,” Mark said. “Really, so what else you planning for the
weekend,” Angel said. “Rematch times 10,” Mark said. He kissed her and held
her in his arms. “What about,” Angel started to say. “No work next week. Just
me and you. Goldie is coming with us,” Mark said. “We’ll dock for dinner and
once during the day. Everything will be perfect. No phones, no distractions
from the crazies, just me and you. What do you think,” Mark asked.
“Purrrrfect,” Angel teased. “You are all packed except for your toiletries. Have
a couple more surprises for you when we get there,” Mark said. She kissed him.
“I love you baby. Thank you for everything. This has been the best birthday
ever,” Angel said. “And it’s just starting,” Mark said. “We leave tomorrow at
lunch time.” “Gee. What will we do for that whole 12 hours before we leave,”
Angel teased. He kissed her hard. “I like that plan,” she said.

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Chapter 10
The next morning, Angel and Mark got up and took Goldie out for her walk.
Angel finished her small amount of packing and they headed down to the pier.
“I brought Goldie down here a few times to get used to the boat. She’ll be fine,”
Mark said. They got out to the end of the pier and Angel saw the boat. “I forgot
how huge it was,” Angel said. “All ours,” Mark said. They hopped on board
and his friend came down to welcome them. “I hear the birthday woman has
arrived. Happy Birthday Angel. Welcome aboard,” he said. “Thanks so much
for this. It’s so nice of you to let us use the boat this weekend,” Angel said. “My
little present to you,” he said. “We’re going to head out in about 15 minutes.
Just have to let everyone know the course,” he said hopping up to the steering
area.
“Follow me,” Mark said. He took her hand leading her to the bedroom. “She
walked in and found her bag on the bed. “This really is beautiful,” Angel said.
“Happy official birthday baby,” Mark said. Angel turned and kissed him. “So
where we heading off to,” Angel asked. “You’ll see. A weekend of surprises
awaits,” Mark said. The music got turned on, and they headed off. They pulled
on their swimsuits and went and sat at the front of the boat. Mark rubbed
suntan lotion on her and they relaxed. “Thought you would appreciate having a
stress-free weekend,” Mark said. “You don’t know how much,” Angel said
kissing Mark. “I feel kind of bad taking off on everyone, but we needed this I
think,” Angel said. “Definitely,” Mark said. He had a grin on his face. “What
are you thinking,” Angel teased. “A few things, but we should wait until we are
out on the water,” Mark said. “Oh really. Sounds intriguing,” Angel said with
that glimmer in her eye. He kissed her and she wrapped her arms around him,
laying in his lap. “So you going to give me a hint as to any of these surprises,”
Angel asked. “Nope,” he replied. “Not even a tiny one,” she asked. “Nope.
You’ll find out soon enough,” Mark said.
An hour or two later, they were out in the water. It was a beautiful day, and they
were completely relaxed. Mark got up and made them lunch and they sat down
with Goldie for lunch. “You know how nice this is? We have no distractions
except me and you. It’s really perfect,” Angel said. Mark kissed her. “As it
should be honey,” Mark said. They played with Goldie a while, then put their
feet up in the shade. “I have an idea,” he said. “I don’t wanna know do I,”
Angel asked. “I think you already know,” Mark teased. Angel turned over and
laid her body on top of his. “Really,” Angel said. Her skin glistened from the
lotion and her bikini was a perfect fit. He couldn’t resist her. “Either here or
there, but,” he said. She kissed him. “Really,” he said seductively. Angel slowly
moved down then hopped off the bench. “Oh hell no. You aren’t winning this
one,” Mark said chasing her and picking her up carrying her to the bedroom.

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“Round 5. Angel 8, Mark 5,” Angel said. He laid her on the bed. He pulled the
bikini top off, then untied the bottoms. “It’s about to be even,” Mark said. “Oh
really,” Angel said. He grabbed something from his bag. “Close them,” Mark
said. “Whatever are you up to,” Angel teased. He massaged her starting at her
toes. He worked his way to her thighs, then stopped to tease and kiss her. She
wrapped her legs around his torso. He slowly continued until he’d reached her
lips. He kissed her hard and pinned her arms to the bed. He moved back down
again for another round of teasing. “Okay. Enough. I give in,” Angel said as he
worked his way back up to kiss her hard again. “8-6,” Mark said before he
kissed her. They made love again then went up on deck. She curled up in his
arms. “Are we heading somewhere,” Angel said. “Should be there in a half
hour or so,” Mark’s friend said. “Where are we going,” Angel asked. “You’ll
see. I wanted to show you something,” Mark said. “Already seen it,” Angel
whispered in his ear. “Ooh. Not what I was talking about,” Mark said kissing
Angel. Goldie was up with Mark’s friend. “She’s a good navigator Mark,” his
friend said. They laughed. They curled up together relaxing on the sofa. “A
little hint,” Angel said wrapping her arm around his torso. “Fine. It’s romantic
and cozy,” Mark said. “That could be a million things Mark. Come on,” Angel
said. “Pulling into the dock,” his friend said. Mark took Angel’s hand.
He pulled on his shirt and hopped on the dock. They got there and hopped into
a blacked out truck. “Where are you taking me,” she asked. “You’ll see,” Mark
said. About 10 minutes later, the truck stopped and they hopped out. “Wow.
This place looks beautiful. Oh my goodness,” Angel said. “Come with me,” he
said opening the door. “How do you have keys for this,” Angel asked. “A
friend,” he said. She saw a for sale sign on the lawn. “So what do you think,”
Mark said. “Look at the view,” Angel said. He wrapped his arms around her. It
was small enough for a small family. The view was breathtaking as the sun was
setting. Everything seemed so warm. “This place is like paradise,” Angel said.
“Knew you would love it,” he said. “Why,” Angel asked. “See that smaller
place down by the water,” he asked. “Yeah,” Angel replied. “Our cottage,” he
replied. “Since when,” Angel asked. “Forever. It was left to me by my
grandmother. This is the house I always dreamed of having,” Mark said. “It
does seem like the same feel as ours,” Angel said. “Almost the same layout,”
Mark said. “No wonder it felt like home,” Angel said. They headed out and
went down to where the cottage was. They went inside and he’d set up a cozy,
romantic dinner for them. Goldie was playing around already. “Took her for a
wander for you. She should be fine for a while Mark,” his friend said. “Thanks
for this,” Angel said. “See you in a few hours,” his friend said. They headed to
the patio and sat down to have dinner. Mark turned the music on. It was a CD
of music from the night they met. All either one of them could remember were
the slow songs they danced to. They had dinner, and danced under the stars.

79. 2
“We staying here tonight,” Angel asked. Either here or the boat,” Mark said.
Angel kissed him. “So here I gather,” he said kissing her.
He walked her backwards to the bedroom. Candles were lit, and rose petals
were on the bed. She noticed as well as a box that was on the bed for her.
“Another surprise,” she said. He kissed her hard. He handed the box to her and
they sat on the bed. It was a red satin teddy. “Oh really,” Angel said. He kissed
her. “Something tells me we may not need that tonight.” She laid down on the
bed and wrapped her arms around Mark. He slipped the straps of her dress
from her shoulders and slid the dress off. “Knew you were going to do that you
know,” Mark teased. “Really? Well, how about this,” Angel said kissing him
and pulling his jeans to the ground. She slid them off him with her feet, then
pulled him to her with her legs. “See I knew there was a reason why you went
for those jogs in the morning,” Mark said. He kissed her hard and made love to
her over and over again. They curled up in their bed, in their cottage by the
ocean. It was like a fairy tale to Angel. Any day now she’d wake up from it. She
almost had to pinch herself every morning to make sure it was real. This time, it
was.
The next morning, they got up, had breakfast and headed back to the boat.
Goldie was already there with Mark’s friend. “Welcome back,” he said. “Thanks
so much,” Angel said. She went to the bedroom to change with Mark not far
behind her. “Following me are you,” Angel teased. She slipped the dress off
and turned to face him. “Tease,” Mark said. “And,” Angel joked. She went to
slip her bikini on and Mark had wrapped his arms around her. “Okay then…no
bathing suit,” Angel teased. “Not yet anyway,” he said. “What are you thinking
Mr. Scott,” Angel asked. “I think you may already know,” Mark teased. “Oh
really, I guess we’ll have to do something about that then,” Angel said. “No
teasing permitted today,” Mark said. “Why’s that,” Angel said. “It’s officially
your birthday,” he said. “Funny, I don’t feel older,” Angel said. “I know what
you feel,” Mark whispered in her ear. They both laughed. They curled up on the
bed and snuggled a while. “Really, this weekend has been amazing,” Angel
said. “And you get another 5 days of this,” Mark said. “Where are we heading
then,” Angel asked. “Should be there by sunset. With his driving anyway,”
Mark said. “Where are you taking me,” Angel asked. He kissed her.
“Paradise,” he replied kissing her again. They made love then headed up to the
deck to relax in the sun.
“We have to stop in about an hour or two, and you will both need your
passports,” Mark’s friend said. “Where are we going anyway,” Angel asked.
“You’ll see later. I have the passports downstairs in my bag,” Mark said.
“Thought of everything didn’t you,” Angel said. “Always,” he said. They
relaxed a while and enjoyed the sunshine and the music. Around 3, they docked.

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Mark got the passports and showed them to the officers. “Thank you sir. You
may continue,” they said. Mark and his friend came back on board and refueled,
then they headed back out to head to their destination. “You’re not even going
to give me a little hint,” Angel said. “Palm trees,” Mark said. “Yeah.
Everywhere has palm trees Mark,” Angel said. “That’s all I am saying. Just let
me make this a surprise okay,” he said kissing her. “I guess so,” Angel said. “So
easy to let me win that one. You okay,” he joked. “With my sweetheart. Why
wouldn’t I,” Angel asked. “We only have an hour or two left,” Mark said. The
boat sped up and they headed off. “So. We have an hour or two. Suntan or
something else,” Angel asked. “What were you thinking,” Mark asked. Angel
hopped up and headed for the bedroom. She pulled her bathing suit off and
hopped into the shower. Mark jumped in behind her. “A lot bigger than I
thought it would be,” Angel said. “Tease,” Mark joked. “I mean the bathroom
on the boat Mark,” Angel said teasingly. “Pretty fancy. Had to make it perfect.
He said he’d show me how to drive this puppy, so we can have it all to ourselves
next time,” Mark said. “Oh the fun we could have with that,” Angel said kissing
him. The hot water from the shower was steaming up the room. He turned the
shower off and walked her backwards to the bedroom. He kissed her and leaned
her back onto the bed. “My favorite part of the day,” Angel whispered in his ear.
“And what’s that,” he asked. “Naptime,” Angel replied nibbling his ear.
Around 5:30, Angel and Mark felt the boat dock. They got changed and headed
up to the deck. Goldie was barking away. “Where are we,” Angel asked.
“Home for tonight,” Mark said. Two gentlemen headed towards the boat. “Mr.
Scott I presume,” they said. “Yes. Hi Aaron,” Mark said. “Please follow us,”
they said. Mark grabbed a bag from the boat. “Where are we going,” Angel
asked. They showed them to a small cabin on the beach. “Dinner is on it’s way
sir,” they said leaving Mark and Angel alone. “Okay. Really. Where are we,”
Angel said. “Kawaii,” Mark replied. “Oh my goodness. This place is
breathtaking,” Angel said. She went out onto their patio and looked out at the
water. “The water is so blue,” Angel said. “Yours for tonight,” Mark said. “It’s
like I am getting to see everything. This is amazing,” Angel said. “That’s part of
the present. I might as well tell you since today really is your birthday. “We’re
here tonight, then we make our way across to the Caribbean,” Mark said. “Are
you serious,” Angel asked. “Just Grenada and St. Lucia. Then we have to head
back up the coast to head home,” Mark said. “Beach after beach. It’s like you
really wanted to see me in every bikini I own or something,” Angel teased. “I
plan to. In and out of,” he said. Mark opened a bottle of champagne. “So where
does your friend keep disappearing to,” Angel asked. “Some of his family live
down here. The others are scattered around the Caribbean. He has a little
cottage down the street from my place on the island,” Mark said. “He must be a
good friend to do this for us this week,” Angel said. They curled up on the
swing sofa outside. “See, wouldn’t this be nice to have at home,” Angel said. A

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smirk came across Mark’s face. “What,” Angel asked. “Nothing,” Mark said
kissing her forehead. Two waiters headed towards their patio. “Dinner is
served sir,” they said placing the platters on the table. He filled their glasses, and
the two gentlemen took the domes off the food. “Perfect. Thanks so much,”
Mark said. They enjoyed their quiet dinner, chatted and sipped champagne until
around 11. They sat on the beach and talked, then his friend came towards them.
“Looks like that Caribbean idea is out of the picture. Storm coming. We’re safe
here, but we may have to head back to Cali sooner then we hoped,” he said. “No
problem. Have a backup idea anyway,” Mark said. “Oh you do,” Angel said.
“Always,” Mark said. “Join us for a toast.” His friend sat down with them for a
glass of champagne. “To my birthday girl. If I could show you the world I
would if it meant I could spend that time with you,” Mark said. “To the luckiest
lady, second only to my wife,” his friend said. They clinked glasses and sipped
their champagne.
Angel and Mark headed back into the cabin around 11 and headed to bed.
Goldie was asleep on the sofa and Angel slipped on the lingerie Mark had
bought her. “Perfect,” he said. “You know, I don’t know what to say. This has
been the best birthday I ever had,” Angel said. They slow danced in each other’s
arms for a while listening to their favorite songs. He kissed her and they curled
up in bed. “So what’s the backup,” Angel asked. “No. This one is staying
secret. No hints,” Mark said. “Like I don’t have ways of making you talk,”
Angel said. She turned and faced him. “None you can pull out tonight,” Mark
said. “Is that a dare or a bet,” Angel asked. “No. Don’t go there. Come on,”
Mark said as she kissed him and slid her hand between them. She undid his
jeans and slid them off. Angel flipped him onto his back. “Tell me or else,”
Angel said. She leaned down and kissed his chest. “So not fair,” Mark said. She
moved lower and lower. He linked his fingers with hers trying to pull her back
but she did the one thing no man could resist. “Angel, please,” Mark said as she
went faster. “Come,” he said. He flipped her onto her back and they made love.
“Damn you,” Mark said. “Angel 9-Mark 6,” Angel whispered in his ear as she
curled up with one leg wrapped around him. “So spill it.” “I am not saying a
word. I want it to be a surprise. Please. Just one,” Mark said. “Small hint or
else,” Angel said. “Okay. White and Lilac,” Mark said. Angel had no idea.
He’d planned it that way. “I guess a second hint wouldn’t be allowed right,”
Angel asked. “Stars,” Mark said. He kissed her hard. “No more hints,” he said.
They kissed and kissed until they both fell asleep curled up together.
The next morning, they got up and had breakfast. “This place is amazing.
Where did you find it,” Angel said. “A friend. He brought his wife here on their
honeymoon,” Mark said. He was afraid he’d give the surprise away if he said
anything else. “So what are we doing today,” Angel asked. “We’re staying
another night. We’ll be home on Friday evening,” Mark said. “So another

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relaxing day making out on the beach eh,” Angel said kissing him. “Don’t have
to be on the beach,” he said with a grin. He kissed her and picked her up. They
went down towards the water. He ran and splashed them into the ocean. Angel
swam out and he followed, pulling her into his arms. He kissed her hard. They
slid underwater and swam around a while. They splashed around like little kids
then headed back to their towels. “It’s so nice here. I almost don’t want to go
home,” Angel said. They relaxed on the beach for a few hours, then had lunch.
“Why do I feel like there’s another surprise,” Angel said. “Don’t ask. I am not
telling you. And nothing you say can get it out of me,” Mark said. “Ah. A
challenge,” Angel teased. She walked over to him, sat in his lap and wrapped
her legs around him. “Really?” “No tempting either. I am not ruining it. I
refuse to tell you anything,” Mark said. Angel leaned against him, running her
fingers through his hair and kissing his neck. “You sure,” Angel teased. She
kissed him. “I can’t. One secret is all I ask,” Mark said. Angel kissed him again
and he stood up sitting her on the table. “Please? Just allow me one,” Mark
asked. “Okay then,” Angel said hopping off the table and walking back towards
the beach. “Where do you think you are going,” he asked. “Back to the beach,”
Angel teased as he started chasing her to the water. She dove in and he followed
behind trying to catch her. He stopped and she came up behind him. “Looking
for someone,” Angel whispered in his ear. He turned and she slipped back into
the water. She came up right in front of him the next time. He wrapped his arms
around her tight. “You are so in for it,” he teased. “Really,” Angel said
wrapping her legs around him in the water. “What did you have in mind?”
He kissed her and they swam back in to shore. The minute they got to the sand
he picked her up, kissing her and carried her to the towels. He laid her down.
“Okay. I will allow one secret, and that’s just because you will promise to tell me
when we get home right,” Angel asked. He kissed her neck, then her shoulder.
“Promise,” Mark said moving to her chest. He untied her bikini top and kissed
her breasts. He moved to try to untie her bottoms and she squirmed away
running for the cabin. He chased her all the way to bed. “Gotcha,” he said as he
kissed her hard. “Oh darn,” Angel teased as he wrapped her legs around him.
“Tease,” he replied. “Master of if you please,” Angel replied. He kissed her hard
and slipped off the rest of her bathing suit. She slid his off with her feet and
dropped it to the ground. He pinned her hands down and kissed his way down
her torso. “Not even one little tiny hint,” Angel asked. He moved down and she
forgot about what the surprise was. He kissed the inside of her thigh, then
teased her a while. He worked his way back up and kissed her. They made love
for what felt like hours. They curled up together and noticed the sun starting to
set. “Dinner,” he asked. “Definitely,” Angel replied. He called down and
ordered dinner, then Angel slipped on her robe, and John pulled on his jeans and
they curled up together outside on the swing. “You know, I can’t wait until New
Year’s Eve. It’s going to be perfect,” Angel said. Mark smiled. “That it

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definitely will,” Mark replied. “What are you smiling about,” Angel asked.
“Nothing,” he replied still smiling. Dinner showed up and they had a quiet
romantic dinner together. “Our last night,” Mark said. “I know. Not looking
forward to going home,” Angel said. “I’ll tell Jim that we should take our time
going home then,” Mark said. “I don’t want to ruin his plans, I’m just not
looking forward to going back to work,” Angel said. “I know. They’ll all be full
of questions won’t they,” Mark said still smiling. “What is going on in that head
of yours anyway,” Angel asked. “Just thinking about the cruise home,” Mark
teased. “Sure that’s what you are thinking about,” Angel said. He kissed her
again and wrapped his arms around her.
The next morning, they started the trek back home. Surprisingly, they made it
back to the cabin on the island around dinner time. “We’ll go back tomorrow
morning. Should be home by 3ish,” Jim said. Goldie jumped into Angel’s arms
declaring that she was coming with them. Angel and Mark headed to the little
cottage with Goldie and walked in to candles and champagne. “What are you up
to Mark,” Angel asked. He kissed her. “This? Nothing. One of my friends
down the way set this up for us,” Mark teased. “Part of the final surprise right,”
Angel asked. “Sort of,” he replied. He turned on the music and asked Angel to
dance. It was one of Angel’s favorite songs. She smiled and danced with him. “I
love you,” Mark said. “I love you too,” Angel replied. He kissed her and they
finished their dance then sat down to dinner. It was the one thing they both
craved after all the fancy food they’d had over the past week – Burgers. Angel
laughed and they had a nice dinner together. “So what’s next Mark,” Angel said
kissing his cheek. “Well,” he said getting up and taking her hand. “I thought a
little more dancing, then a little kissing, then I’ll tuck you in,” Mark said pulling
her into his arms. “Then I’ll tuck you in with me,” Angel replied. He kissed her
as they danced. They sipped their champagne and danced a while then he
danced her into the bedroom. “You know, I don’t think this night could get
better,” Angel said. “It could, but it’s perfect just the way it is,” Mark said. He
was giving her a hint that she didn’t even notice. He was getting nervous.
Tomorrow was Friday night. He had so many ideas about that night. All of
which she’d find out the minute they got back. He wanted to prolog it as much
as possible, but didn’t want to put his friend out. They got changed for bed and
slid under the satin sheets. Angel faced him and wrapped her arms around him.
Goldie jumped onto the bed to sleep with them. “Why do you seem nervous
Mark? What are you planning in that beautiful mind of yours,” Angel asked.
“Just thinking about how great my life is with you in it,” he said pulling her close
to him as she wrapped a leg around him.
The next morning, they woke up and took Goldie for a long walk then came back
for a quick breakfast before heading home. Angel grabbed her things from the
cottage and threw them in her bag. She noticed Mark getting nervous. She

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couldn’t figure out why, but he was jumpy. “Okay. Tell me what’s wrong Mark.
You’ve been jumpy for two days. What’s up,” Angel said sitting in his lap.
“Nothing. Just dreading going home to work. Just like you,” he said. “I guess
we just have to both bite the bullet,” Angel said. He kissed her hard and they
made love one last time in the cottage. They headed back down to the boat
around lunchtime.
“I assume we’ll be back around 4,” Jim said. They headed home with their
puppy, curled up together at the front of the boat. The minute they got back to
the pier, Jim jumped onto the dock and tied up the boat. “Whenever the
lovebirds are ready,” he said. Angel and Mark grabbed their things, with Goldie
following behind, and hopped into the car to head home. “Thanks again Jim,”
Mark said. They shook hands, and Angel, Mark and Goldie headed home.
When they got in, Angel headed upstairs. She had a weird feeling. She got to
the bedroom and a friend of hers was there. “What are you doing here? Not that
I’m not happy to see you, but what are you doing here,” Angel asked. “Just sit.
Let me do your hair,” she said. “What for,” Angel asked. “Just go with it girl,”
she said. Angel got her hair done, then her friend did her makeup. “What’s
going on,” Angel asked. Her mom came in with her girlfriends. “What is
everyone doing here,” Angel asked. “A little surprise that Mark asked for our
help with,” her mom said. Her friends were in robes. “Sleepover,” Angel asked.
“Shh. Put this on,” her mom said. All the mirrors were gone from her room.
She clipped something into Angel’s hair. “Okay. Now, close your eyes. Don’t
peek okay. It’s Mark’s surprise. Just go with it,” she said. They went downstairs
then headed out a door and her mom put something in her hand. “Open them,”
her dad said.
All her friends and family were there. Everyone they’d invited to their wedding.
She looked over at Mark and realized what the surprise was. She turned to her
girlfriends who were all in their dresses, and Andy, Rodney and Anthony in
their tuxes. She had her bouquet. Her dad walked her to Mark as they both
started to cry. “Surprise,” he said as she approached him. She was in shock.
The ceremony started and both of them were wiping away tears. Everyone was
there. It was better than perfect. The ceremony started and it felt so right to both
of them. “Angel, do you have your vows,” the minister asked. “I think I can
think of something,” she said.
“Mark, from the minute we met, there was something about you that drew me to
you. You made me smile when I didn’t think it was possible, you made me feel
good when I had forgotten how it felt. You reminded me that love doesn’t hurt;
that love is something to be cherished and held onto with both hands. Somehow
you always manage to surprise me. We met by chance that night thanks to

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Raven, but from then on, it was you and me. It was all you and me. Through all
the things that have gone on, you have been my rock, my love, my shoulder to
cry on, my teddy bear to curl up at night with. Starting today, I promise to be all
of these things to you and more. I promise to stand by you when everyone is
against you, to be your reminder when it’s time to go to bed. I promise to love
you forever and to remind you every day just how much.” Angel could hear a
few people sniffling, one of whom was Mark.
“Mark, go ahead,” the minister said.
“From the minute I saw you across that room, I couldn’t help but love you.
When Raven introduced us, it was as if I had met my other half. The one person
that could make me feel whole again. You have been my sun on a cloudy day,
my love when I didn’t think it existed anymore. You reminded me that there are
good and caring people in the world. There are people who will give their hearts
to you unconditionally and all they ask in return is that you give them honesty,
love and compassion. You looked past all the material things and found me.
You make my heart race; you make me smile when I don’t have any reason to.
You are the master of tease, the beat in my heart. You are part of every moment,
every second of my life and I couldn’t imagine it any other way. You are my
conscience, my love, my teddy bear to curl up with at night. You are my
sweetheart. I promise to be everything you ever wanted, and to be your knight
in shining armor whenever it’s needed. I promise to love you forever and even
longer. I promise to always believe in you, and to make you happy always. I
want to be the one who says I love you every day and means it. I know there
will be ups and downs, but I promise to always be kind and caring and
compassionate to you and to hold you in my arms when you are scared. I love
you and will love you forever.” He looked in Angel’s eyes and wiped her tears
away.
“Now, by the power of the state of California, I pronounce you husband and
wife. Kiss your bride,” the minister said. Mark wrapped his arms around Angel
kissing her hard. She wrapped her arms around him. “I love you,” she
whispered. “Surprise,” he replied. He kissed her again and they headed inside.
“Just completely full of surprises aren’t you,” Angel said. “Always,” he said. He
kissed her again and took her hand leading her to where they’d set up for dinner.
“This is beautiful,” Angel said. “Just like you wanted according to your mom,”
Mark said. “So this is why you were so nervous,” Angel asked. “Wouldn’t you
be,” he asked. She kissed him again. They walked around saying hi to everyone,
talking to family and getting hugs and kisses, then sat down to dinner. Andy
stood up to do a speech.

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“Mark and I have been friends for what feels like forever. I met him one day
playing basketball at the gym. He was always the one the ladies wanted to meet.
They used me over and over to get to him, but none really turned his head. That
one fluke night that he made me go out to a bar by the beach, and I realized why
he never noticed those other girls. The minute he met Angel, he was awestruck.
There were no more guys nights, no more going and doing crazy things with the
boys. He had one heck of a one track mind. All I heard from the day they met
was Angel this and Angel that. The day I finally met her, I realized why. She is
the one person that can make him happy when he is in the worst mood possible.
They just click together. Like two puzzle pieces. I guarantee you Angel that he
won’t be perfect all the time and that you may just get sick of him once in a
while, but I know he loves you and has no intention of that changing ever. He
wanted to surprise you tonight, because he loves you. Enough that he blew off a
bachelor party we’d been planning for months to surprise you. I wish you two
all the happiness in the world, and that you hold onto this one with both hands
Mark. If you don’t, I may have to cuff you and ship you off to the sanitarium,”
Andy said. Angel kissed Mark.
“I guess I’m next,” Raven said. “What can I say about these two? I remember
that night they met. I thought I might have a chance with that hunk of a man,
but his eyes were set on her. He handed me his number and asked me to give it
to Angel. Until a few weeks ago, I had no idea how close these two had got.
They have been together for such a short time, but it’s as if they’d known each
other in another life or something. I remember a conversation I had with Angel
when she was trying to hide the engagement from us. She had a smile ear to ear
that gave it away. I asked her if she loved him. She told me that she’d never
imagined that she could be so happy or so in love. He was her guardian angel.
He took care of her when her friends had no idea she needed help. Mark was her
perfect match. Something all of us wish we had. They have the kind of love that
only our grandparents who’d been married forever had. The kind that
withstands years and every up and down you can imagine. I wish you two love,
and the best luck this world has. You two found your one. Hold onto it. I love
you two like family. Congratulations,” she said as everyone sipped their
champagne.
“May I,” Mark asked taking Angel’s hand and leading her to the dance floor.
First his favorite singer performed as they danced. Everyone cried. Next,
Somebody’s me, by Enrique Iglesias came on and Mark held Angel tight. The
next song was now and forever by Richard Marx. Another one of her favorite.
They danced holding each other close. The next song was Mark and his mom.
They played I’ll be by the Goo Goo Dolls. The next song was Angel and her Dad.
They played What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong and they both cried a
little. After that, everyone joined them on the dance floor. “So did you like your

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surprise,” Mark asked. “I’ll show you how much later,” Angel teased. “Okay
master of tease,” he joked holding her close and kissing her. “I love you,” he
said. “I love you too,” Angel said. A little while later, she threw the bouquet
and Raven caught it. “Don’t even think it,” Andy said as she kissed him. Next,
the garter got thrown. Andy caught it. “Threw it at ya,” Mark teased. Raven
turned towards him. “Don’t even,” Andy said. Raven kissed him.

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Chapter 11 – Reality sets in…..
The next morning, Angel and Mark woke up to their first day as husband and
wife. “Well Mrs. Scott. What do you feel like doing today,” Mark asked holding
her in his arms. “Maybe we should get some stuff done around here. I mean we
have been away a week,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Or we could stay in bed,”
Mark said running his hand over her soft skin. Goldie hopped up onto the bed
begging to go out. “I’ll take her. You relax,” Angel said. She pulled on her
workout gear, grabbed her ipod and the leash and headed outside with Goldie.
Angel took her time that morning. They walked all the way down to her old
condo. Angel noticed a car in the parking lot that looked oddly familiar. She
turned back and headed back to the house with Goldie and sat in the backyard.
Mark came out a while later and noticed Angel laying on the chaise on the patio.
“Was wondering when you would be back,” he said. “We came back a little
while ago. Just relaxing in the sunshine,” Angel said. “Why didn’t you come
back in,” he asked sitting down on the chaise beside her. “Just wanted to hear
the waves a while,” Angel said. Goldie jumped into her lap. “Were you
disappointed? I thought having the wedding early would be a good thing,”
Mark said. “It was. It was perfect. Just wish,” Angel said. “Just wish what,”
Mark asked. “It’s nothing really,” Angel said. “Tell me,” he said. “I just wish
that my grandparents had been here to see it,” Angel said. “They were,” Mark
replied. They curled up together on the chaise. Goldie played around in the
yard a while, then they headed inside. “What do you want for breakfast,” Angel
asked. “Don’t think you need me to answer that question,” Mark said coming up
behind Angel and wrapping his arms around her waist. He unzipped her jacket.
“Other than that. Real food? What do you want for breakfast,” Angel asked
popping some toast into the toaster. “Who said I was kidding,” Mark said.
Angel went to go to the fridge to grab some OJ and Mark pulled her back.
“Seriously. I’m starved. I need food,” Angel said. “And I know what I need,”
Mark said kissing her neck and pulling her sweater off.
Angel was in no mood for this that morning. She figured out where she knew
the car from. “Let me make a call first okay. I have to check something out,”
Angel said grabbing the phone. She called Andy. “He still in custody,” Angel
asked. “Well good morning to you Mrs. Scott,” Andy said. “Well,” she asked.
“He was let go this morning,” Andy said. “Thanks for the heads up then,” Angel
said hanging up. “What’s wrong,” Mark asked. “Either James or someone else
was following me on my jog with Goldie,” Angel said. “Doesn’t matter. You’re
a married woman now. Probably someone from the paper trying to get a
picture,” Mark said. “Not funny. I’m serious. Andy said,” Angel started to say.
Mark cut her off with a kiss. “It doesn’t matter. You are mine now,” Mark said.
He kissed her again. “Would you. This isn’t fixing it. I need to know who that

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was,” Angel said. She drank her OJ and had her toast trying to rack her brain as
to whose car that was. She thought about it. It was a black pickup truck. She’d
never seen it before but the driver was familiar. Mark came and sat down with
her rubbing her shoulders. “It was probably nothing. Stop worrying,” Mark
said. “I got it. I know who it was,” Angel said. “Who,” Mark asked. Angel
grabbed the phone and made a call. “Hey yourself……I thought that was
you…… right. Becoming a stalker now are we……..most definitely……. I guess
you did hear….it was beautiful…….. why not. You know how to get here
right…. Okay. See you soon then.” Angel hung up. “Who are you inviting over
here,” Mark asked. “An old friend of mine. He’s in town. He actually was the
one that bought my condo. His name is Chase,” Angel said. “What about our
honeymoon,” Mark asked. “I’ll give you a honeymoon alright,” Angel said as
she turned and kissed him. She put her dishes away and headed upstairs to
shower and change.
Angel stepped into the hot shower. The water felt so good against her skin. It
was so warm. Mark stepped in behind her and wrapped his arms around her.
“Hey there,” Angel said. He pinned her to the wall of the shower with the water
still hitting them. “Needed me for something did you,” Angel said. He kissed
her hard grabbing her leg and wrapping it around him. “I see,” Angel said. “I
refuse to share today,” Mark said kissing her hard. “It will only be a few hours.
Then I am yours for the rest of the weekend,” Angel said. They made love in the
shower, then turned the taps off, heading to bed. “He’ll be here any minute. At
least let me get dressed,” Angel said. He kissed her hard from her lips to her
chest to her stomach and lower. “Not sharing,” he said. “You don’t have to.
Just give me a few hours. He wants to meet you,” Angel said. He made love to
her again, kissing her neck and shoulder so hard he left a mark. After, he finally
let her get changed, and within a few minutes Chase had arrived.
Angel headed downstairs and opened the door. “Well hello there stranger,”
Angel said as he picked her up wrapping his arms around her. “God I missed
you,” Chase said. “I missed you too Chase. How is Crystal,” Angel asked.
“Long story,” Chase said. He kissed Angel. She pushed him away. “What was
that for,” Angel said backing away. “You know,” Chase said. Mark came
downstairs. “Chase, I am a married woman now. You can’t kiss me like that,”
Angel said. “Trust me. I know. I couldn’t help myself. You look so good,”
Chase said. He pulled her into his arms and Mark caught a glimpse. “So this is
Chase,” Mark said. “Hey there. Heard a lot about you Mark,” Chase said. “I
can’t say the same,” Mark said shaking his hand. He wrapped his arms around
Angel. “So how long you in town for this time Chase,” Angel asked. “Just long
enough for a night out with you,” Chase said. “We could take you to Copa if
you want. It’s a great little place,” Mark said. Chase got the hint. “So I heard
about the wedding. Congrats,” Chase said. “Thanks,” Mark replied with his

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hand gripping Angel’s tightly. “He surprised me with it last night. Isn’t that
amazing,” Angel said. “Thought that you two were getting married on new
years,” Chase said. “That was the original plan, but Mark decided to surprise me
with an earlier wedding,” Angel said. “I heard you had that chick you like
perform,” Chase said. “Was a great wedding gift from Angel wasn’t it,” Mark
said. “Definitely. She is a whiz at pulling things like that off. If it weren’t for
her, Crystal and I wouldn’t be talking at all,” Chase said. “Who is Crystal,”
Mark asked. “A good friend of mine. I helped them out of a jam,” Angel said.
“Too bad it didn’t fix it permanently. She still doesn’t 100% trust me,” Chase
said. “Why’s that,” Mark said pulling Angel into his arms. “A few stupid things
I have done. That will damn well haunt me forever,” Chase said. “Your fault.
You shouldn’t have gone near her in the first place,” Angel said. “I know. Kick
me when I’m down why don’t you,” Chase teased. “Can I get you a drink or
anything,” Angel said tearing herself away from Mark. “Whatever you have is
good,” Chase said.
Mark was on the defensive now. She’d never mentioned him before and now he
was sitting in their living room. Angel looked at Chase in a way that she’d never
looked at Mark. He knew Angel before. Before James, before the pain. He
couldn’t help but want to make sure Chase knew she wasn’t available. He had to
protect his territory. “Why don’t we sit outside Chase. It’s a great view,” Angel
said heading to the door. “Damn. You’re right,” he said getting up and
following Angel. Mark was right behind them. No way was he leaving them
alone. As he was about to step out the door, Mark’s phone rang. He grabbed it
and got pulled into a conference call. He had his eye on them. No way was this
man going to stand between them.
“So what happened with you and Crystal? That chick come back to beg you to
have sex with her again,” Angel asked. “No. She found the emails we
exchanged and freaked. It would be different if she’d met you. I just don’t think
she could handle knowing that someone else knows me better than her,” Chase
said. “We are good friends Chase, but she should be your best friend. What the
hell did you do? You wouldn’t be out here for no reason. Something happened
didn’t it,” Angel asked. “I found the announcement online,” Chase said. “And,”
Angel asked. “I had to come out here. Something pulled me,” Chase said.
“Knowing that you’d finally got away from James and that you were moving on
so fast. I wanted to come out to spend one last night with you before you
married him.” “Chase, you know we wouldn’t have. You always say that, but
nothing ever happens. We are friends Chase. That’s all,” Angel said. “If we are
still friends then how come I can tell you want me,” he whispered. “Stop okay?!
You are an attractive man, and you are also my friend, but nothing like that
would ever,” Angel said as he leaned in to try to kiss her again. “Come for a

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walk with me. Show me around the garden,” Chase said. “One minute then. I’ll
be right back,” Angel said.
She headed inside to find Mark in his office. He was on a conference call that she
had a feeling would be a long one. She muted it momentarily. “We’re going for
a walk. I’ll be back in a half hour or so. When you are done your call, come out
and sit with us,” Angel said. He pulled Angel into his lap kissing her hard. She
wrapped her legs around him. “One sec,” he said taking it off mute. “Guys. Let
me get back to you on that. Going to research it. Will log back in when I am
done. Give me 15 minutes,” Mark said hanging up. He sat her on his desk.
“But,” Angel tried to say as he kissed her. He felt her. “Horny are we,” he
asked. He kissed her hard and had sex with her on the desk. He felt like he had
something to prove. After she got up, kissed him and he went back to his call.
Angel cleaned up and headed outside for her walk with Chase.
“You took forever. What were you grabbing,” Chase asked as he wrapped his
arms around Angel’s waist. “Don’t even Chase. You know things aren’t like
that,” Angel said. He took her hand leading her to the mass of trees. “If things
aren’t good between you two, she’ll definitely be pissed when she finds out you
were here,” Angel said. He turned and planted a kiss on her that made her weak
in the knees. “Now tell me that you don’t want me,” he said. Angel went to
push him away and his hand slid her dress up and he grabbed her butt. “I am a
married woman Chase. I really do love him. This isn’t the way I am starting this
off,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “Can’t say it can you,” he said. “What
about Crystal? I thought you loved her,” Angel said. “I do, but it’s not the same
anymore. I have a bad feeling about her. Something is going on. I have no idea
what it is, but the one thing I do now is right here right now, I want you,” Chase
said kissing her again. She pushed him away. “Just stop it. Maybe Mark is right
to be worried about you,” Angel said. “Worried that I can steal his woman,”
Chase said. “Hey. I married him because I love him. Stop the rivalry. You have
Crystal. I have Mark. Leave it be. You have problems with her, then figure
them out for yourself. You cause them, and you have to fix them. If you need
my help, then ask. This isn’t going to fix your problems,” Angel said. “Walk.”
She dragged him to the beach and walked with him. She grabbed Goldie and
brought her along.
“I haven’t done anything to provoke her. Nothing. We’re still good, but it’s
almost like some of the magic is gone. Now that Lila is here, we barely get time
alone,” Chase said. “So make time Chase. She loves you. She has for like
forever. You owe yourselves that much. Why don’t you bring her down here for
a week? I know the perfect place for you two to go,” Angel said. “You think,”
he asked. “Your mom would probably look after the kids in a heartbeat,” Angel
said. “Good point,” Chase said heading back to the house with Angel. “See. All

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it took was a little Angel dust to knock some sense into your head,” Angel said as
they headed to the patio. “Did you really think what you tried to pull over there
would make things better? Cheating never fixes things Chase,” Angel said. She
noticed that Mark had come outside. “Hey baby,” Angel said. She kissed him.
He didn’t seem happy. “So what are you two up to tonight? That Copa place
seems kind of cool,” Chase said. “I have an idea. Why don’t you call Crystal and
get her out here,” Angel said. “Good idea,” Chase said calling his wife.
“What’s wrong,” Angel asked. “He made the moves on you didn’t he,” Mark
asked. “And I pointed out that I love you. What’s the problem,” Angel said.
“Something about him. I can’t place it. Something familiar,” Mark said. Angel
kissed him. “What is he doing in town anyway,” Mark asked. “He wanted to
come and say congratulations. That’s all. He needed some time away to figure
things out,” Angel said wrapping her arms around Mark. He kissed her. “You
know that if anything ever happened,” Mark said. Angel kissed him to quiet his
worries. “Forever remember,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “Forever mine,”
he said to himself. Chase turned towards them. “She’s coming. My mom’s
taking care of them and she’s actually coming down here,” Chase said. “See.
Told you. You two needed a vacation. That’s all,” Angel said as she leaned
against Mark and wrapped his arms around her. “Where you two staying,”
Angel asked. “There’s a hotel down the street. The haven. It’s a great hotel,”
Chase said. “That it is. Set up the security system myself,” Mark said kissing
Angel’s cheek. They all sat down to relax a while, and Goldie ran inside for a
snack.
“You two are just stuck together with crazy glue aren’t you,” Chase teased.
“This is how you and Crystal used to be. Remember,” Angel joked. “Maybe
again someday,” Chase said. “This place is absolutely amazing. It’s beautiful.”
“Mark rebuilt it,” Angel said. “The whole thing? Even the grounds are perfect,”
Chase said. “Thanks. I wanted to make it perfect,” Mark said. “You succeeded
Mark. What I would do for a place like this. I mean it’s like your own little piece
of paradise,” Chase said. “That it is,” Mark replied. “A little piece of paradise
for Angel and I.”
Angel walked Chase out to the truck as he headed in to the airport to pick
Crystal up. Mark was glad to see him leave. When Angel came back in, he was
at the door. “See. Everything is fine,” Angel said. He leaned against her against
the door. “Now that I have you to myself again,” he said looking in her eyes.
“We should go get ready for dinner,” Angel said. He kissed her hard. He picked
her up wrapping her legs around him and carried her upstairs to bed still kissing
her. He laid her on the bed. “Had no plans to share you tonight,” Mark said
slipping her dress off. He teased her then kissed her from her warm center to her
lips. “One night won’t kill us,” Angel said as he slipped his jeans off. “Then

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you’ll definitely be all mine for the rest of the weekend,” Mark said.
“Definitely….yes……all…..yours,” Angel said as they made love. “Promise me,”
Mark said. They kept going and going. “I promise,” Angel said. They finished
then curled up together on the bed. “Did you really think I would be with him
Mark,” Angel asked. “You definitely wanted him,” Mark said. “No. What I
want is you. I wouldn’t have married you if I didn’t,” Angel said. “I’m not even
going to ask then,” Mark said. “What? What were you going to ask,” Angel said
as he pulled her close to him. “Your body was saying something else,” Mark
said. “You know, you sure are worried about that. I told you. I love you. What
else do I have to do Mark? He is my friend,” Angel said. “Maybe I was just
seeing things, but I don’t think he would have had a second thought to his wife if
I weren’t here,” Mark said. “Oh stop. He knows me better than you think. He
knows I wouldn’t be with him. He knows that if it weren’t for me, him and
Crystal would never have been together at all. I was at their wedding,” Angel
said. “You trying to tell me you wouldn’t if both of you weren’t attached,” Mark
said. “No point in saying it. We are. I love you. He is just a friend and always
will be. Even if we both end up being single again, nothing would ever happen,”
Angel said. She got up and went to shower to get ready for dinner. Mark
thought about it and realized how silly he was being. Why was he so insecure?
She married him. She loves him. That’s all there was to it.
He got up and slipped into the shower with Angel. “I’m sorry. I guess I got a
little freaked when he tried to make a move on my girl,” Mark said. Angel
turned to face him. “Remember something….I am your wife. Forever. I would
never cheat on you. I love you. If you need a reminder once in a while, let me
know,” Angel said. She kissed him then finished her shower. “And I have one
hell of a sexy wife,” Mark said. “We’re going to be late if you start that again,”
Angel said. “Start what,” he said picking her up wrapping her legs around him.
“Not tired yet eh,” Angel asked as he kissed her neck. “I slept in remember,” he
teased. They had sex in the shower then cleaned up and got ready for their night
out. “Now where did you find that dress,” he asked when he turned to see her
in a black satin slip dress. “Oh, something I had put aside for our honeymoon,”
Angel said. She slipped on her thigh highs and garter belt, then her heels, then
finished getting ready. “How do you expect me to hold myself back tonight,” he
asked wrapping his arms around her waist. “After dinner, and a dance or two,
you won’t have to,” Angel said turning to face him. He kissed her. “You do
realize the faster we get to dinner, the faster we get home right,” Angel said
kissing him. “Good point,” he replied. He finished getting ready as she slipped
her rollers out. “Way too tempting tonight,” Mark said. “And all yours,” Angel
said. She hoped that would be enough to calm his jealousy.
They headed to the restaurant to meet up with Crystal and Chase. They headed
in to find them at the table already. “Hey there stranger,” Angel said as her and

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Mark sat down. “Mark, this is Crystal. Crystal, this is my new husband Mark,”
Angel said. “First time you said it. Sounds so good,” Mark said kissing her.
“You two are so cute. Just like Chase and I were years ago,” Crystal said. Chase
kissed her hand. “I am so glad you could come Crystal. How are the kids,”
Angel asked. “They are all great. I heard the news that there are some congrats
for you two. Shouldn’t you be on your honeymoon or something,” Crystal
asked. “We had that before the wedding,” Angel teased. “We had planned the
wedding for New years eve, then he surprised me with the wedding yesterday.”
“So where did Mr. Romance take you,” Crystal asked. “We went out to Santa
Barbara, then to Turtle Island, then back,” Mark said with his arm wrapped
around Angel. “We were at Turtle Island on our honeymoon too,” Crystal said
as Chase leaned back. They ordered their drinks and dinner, chatting the night
away. By the time it got to 11, Angel and Mark excused themselves and headed
home, and Chase and Crystal spent some much needed time alone.

95. 2
Chapter 12
That night, Angel and Mark got home and curled up together. She wondered
what brought on his jealous streak, but hesitated mentioning it. She couldn’t
deny that he was jealous, but she also wondered if he saw something she didn’t.
“So Master Tease, what do you have planned for tonight,” Mark asked. “Okay. I
am going to ask you something and you have to promise not to get mad and
answer me truthfully,” Angel said. Mark gulped. “Okay. What is it,” Mark
asked. “Why were you so freaked out when Chase came?” He didn’t want to
say, but knew it was best to say something. “Look at him. He obviously works
out day in and day out, and he wants you. I can see it. I don’t know why you
can’t. He kept trying to figure out a way to non-chalantly touch you. He wanted
you. I just didn’t want you to leave,” Mark said. “Now why would I do that,”
Angel asked. “He wanted you. He tried how many times to make a point of
letting you know. He wasn’t joking around,” Mark said. “Then I guess he got
the point when I got ‘delayed’ coming back outside for our walk right,” Angel
said. He could see she was pissed. “I couldn’t help it okay? I couldn’t,” Mark
said. “Remember one thing. I am not territory or an item that someone owns. I
am not a possession to be bargained with, and I am definitely not willing to put
up with this crap from anyone. I put Chase in his place. He knows where I
stand. If you don’t trust me not to be with someone else, then I don’t know why
you even married me,” Angel said getting up and walking upstairs.
She slipped off the sexy outfit and pulled on her track pants, sweater and
runners. “Where are you going,” Mark asked. “Taking Goldie for a walk,”
Angel said walking past him and heading for the beach. “Wait and I will come
with you,” Mark said. “No. I am going alone. I need to clear my head before I
go to sleep,” Angel said. “I’m sorry. I know I was acting like a jealous fool.
Please,” Mark said. “I’ll be back in an hour or so,” Angel said grabbing the leash
and heading out with Goldie.
An hour passed. No sign of her. Mark sat outside and lit a cigarette. He
grabbed a beer from the fridge and waited outside for her under the stars. After
2 hours passed, he wondered. Where did she go? It had been 2 hours and she
said she’d be back in one. He knew if he went looking for her, she’d say he
didn’t trust her, but if she was hurt or something….
Angel left the house and jogged with Goldie down to her old condo. She was
getting used to this path. She passed the hotel and wondered. Was Mark right?
Was he seeing something she didn’t? She was just about to pass it when she saw
Chase. “What are you doing out here? Shouldn’t you be in there with Crystal,”
Angel asked. “I needed air,” Chase said. “What’s up,” Angel asked. “Nothing.
I’ve just been thinking is all. You were right. I need to work at things with her.

96. 2
That cabin you told me about. Do you think Mark might let us use it for a few
days? Just until we straighten things out? She’s still pissed about the whole Jess
thing. Supposedly, she called just after I left to head here. She told her I was
going to see my girlfriend,” Chase said. “She knows better doesn’t she? Jess is
and always has been full of it,” Angel said. “I know. I think she does, but she
got a little jealous streak when she saw you. I practically have scars from her
digging her nails into my hand.” “She loves you. All you need to do is spend
some alone time together and everything will work itself out,” Angel said.
“That’s what I thought, but then she said that I wanted you and that’s the only
reason I came out here. That I was trying to stop you from marrying Mark,”
Chase said. Angel paused. “Was it,” she asked. “Maybe subconsciously, but no.
He’s a good guy. As long as you are happy,” Chase said. “Mark said the same
thing. He thought you came out here because you wanted me. That little
attempt at the house didn’t help,” Angel said. They played with Goldie a while.
“Maybe we both have a stupid attraction to each other. I just know that not
being at your wedding killed me. I would have like to have seen you before you
married him, or at least met him,” Chase said. “What difference would it have
made,” Angel asked. “Walk with me,” he said. They walked a little further
down to the rocks.
“Maybe they are right,” Chase said. “Come on. Don’t start that again Chase,”
Angel said. He kissed her and she couldn’t help her reaction. She pushed him
away. “You aren’t going to do this. We are both married. It isn’t right,” Angel
said. He kissed her again. “We can’t Chase. He’s probably on the patio right
now waiting for me to come back. Crystal will be pissed to no end,” Angel said.
He pulled the zipper down on her sweater. He kissed her neck, with his hands
on her leg that he was trying to wrap around him. She pushed him back. “Stop.
Think about this Chase. Don’t do something you are going to regret,” Angel
said. He kissed her again and slid his hand down her back. “Chase, this isn’t
going to happen okay? I don’t want to prove them right,” Angel said. He kissed
her again. He unbuttoned his jeans. “Chase. Stop. I am not having sex with
you. Just stop now. Go inside to your wife, and Goldie and I will go home to my
husband. Don’t ruin our friendship,” Angel said. He took her hand leading her
around the rocks to a quiet and very secluded spot he’d found. Goldie sat down
on the beach. “I know you want me too. Don’t bother with the ‘my husband’
crap. You have for years,” he said. “Maybe, but that was then. This is now and
it isn’t happening,” Angel said. He kissed her again and pinned her to the sand.
“Say it. Tell me that being this close to it doesn’t make you want me,” Chase
said. She was silent. “See,” he said. He kissed her from her lips to her chest.
She couldn’t fight it. Maybe they both were right. Before anything else
happened, she stopped him. “No Chase. Not like this. I have to go home,”
Angel said zipping up her jacket and splashing some water on her and on her
face. “Come on Goldie,” Angel said as the puppy followed her.

97. 2
Mark was now getting worried. It had been two and a half hours. No sign of
her. He grabbed another drink and had another cigarette. “She isn’t back by the
time I finish this, I am going to look for her,” he said. About 15 minutes later, he
saw her heading back towards the house. “Was wondering where you two
headed off to,” Mark said. She came up onto the patio and headed inside.
“Where are you going,” he asked. “To grab myself a drink and join you,” Angel
said. Goldie sat outside with Mark and fell asleep on the patio. A few minutes
later, Angel came outside and sat on the steps next to Mark’s chair. “I’m sorry. I
shouldn’t have reacted like that. I do trust you,” Mark said trying to rub Angel’s
shoulders. “I am beginning to think that we should have had that long
engagement Mark,” Angel said. “Don’t say that. I am happy that we got
married. It may not have been 100% how you planned, but it was perfect. We
are fine. Just haven’t faced anything like that. I didn’t even know he existed
until today,” Mark said. “You aren’t the only reason I left James you know. He
told me over and over that I was better off with someone who’d love me and
cherish me. Someone that would trust me. Maybe that person just isn’t you,”
Angel said.
She got up and went inside. She closed the door and went upstairs to a hot bath.
Was Chase right? Was Mark? The thoughts running through her mind made
her dizzy. She closed her eyes and leaned back in the hot water. A half hour or
so later, she got up from the tub, wrapped a towel around her and went
downstairs to the sofa. She grabbed a blanket and curled up on the sofa. She
had to quiet the thoughts in her mind – alone.
The next morning she woke up and noticed Mark on the sofa with her. She tried
to go back to sleep and pretend she hadn’t seen it, but couldn’t. “Morning,” he
said. “Morning,” Angel said getting up and heading upstairs to freshen up.
“You still mad,” Mark said as she came down the steps in her bikini. “Can we
talk about it after I wake up,” Angel asked. She walked past him and put on the
hot water for some tea. “You know I trust you right,” Mark said. “Give me 10
minutes. Let me have my tea okay,” Angel said. She poured her tea and sat
outside with Goldie. “You were gone a long time. I was worried about you,”
Mark said. “I was fine. I just needed a walk. Went further than I thought. It
took me a while to get back. What’s the problem,” Angel asked. “Crystal called
last night. Supposedly, Chase disappeared for a few hours too,” Mark said.
“What are you getting at Mark,” Angel asked. Her stomach started to turn. “I
was worried about you. She was worried about Chase. She went outside to look
for him and couldn’t find him,” Mark said. “Maybe he needed a walk too,”
Angel said. “You didn’t see him,” Mark asked. “No. He looked a little stressed
when we headed home last night. You never know,” Angel said.

98. 2
“Where were you last night Chase,” Crystal asked. “What do you mean? I went
outside for some air. Went for a walk on the beach then I came back in,” he said.
“I woke up and you weren’t here. That’s all,” Crystal said. “Well, I’m here now.
What did you want me for last night,” he asked. “Missed you was all. Used to
having you to curl up to. When you weren’t here, I couldn’t sleep,” she said.
“Really,” Chase said walking towards her. “Really,” Crystal replied. He kissed
her. He began to wonder. Maybe Angel was right. All it took was some alone
time together.
Angel leaned back in the chair and had one of Mark’s cigarettes. “What is going
on in that head of yours,” he asked. “Just thinking about what was said last
night. And I am thinking that maybe I was right,” Angel said. “About what,” he
asked. He started to get nervous. “We should have waited,” Angel said. Mark
got up and sat on the edge of her chair. “Why would you say that,” he asked. “I
love you Mark, but I wish I had seen this side before we got married,” Angel
said. He grabbed the cigarette from her hand and kissed her. “All this started
because he showed up. What did he say to you to make you second guess this
whole thing,” Mark asked. “Nothing. He said he wished he’d met you before
the wedding. I can’t help but think that I wish he had too,” Angel said.
“Secondly, I am not second guessing it. I love you too. I just think…” He cut her
off with a kiss. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her into his lap
wrapping her legs around him. He picked her up, still kissing her, and carried
her inside to their bedroom. He laid her down pulling her bikini off. “I love
you,” he whispered in her ear as he pulled his jeans off. “I love you too,” Angel
said. They made love slow and steady. He feared that she would leave. That
Chase had changed her mind, but making love to her reminded him she hadn’t.
They curled up on the bed together afterwards as he kissed her shoulder and
neck. “I’m sorry for ever doubting you,” Mark said. “Now he realizes it,” Angel
said. “So wife, what are we doing today,” Mark asked sliding his hand down
her torso. “Could do that too,” Angel said. Goldie scratched at the door. “Why
don’t I take her for her walk, then we can relax outside,” Angel suggested. “Why
don’t we both go,” Mark said. “Better get dressed then,” Angel said trying to get
up. His hand teased her. “When we get back. I promise,” Angel said. She
kissed him, turning to face him. His kisses trailed down her chest and between
her legs. Goldie scratched again. “Mark. Stop. When we get home…” His
kissed his way back to her lips. “Okay then,” he said kissing her again. Angel
slid out of bed and grabbed her workout shorts and tank. She pulled them on as
well as her runners and headed downstairs. Mark came down behind her and
they headed out for Goldie’s walk.
“So how far did you walk last night,” Mark asked. “Just into that cove over
there. Goldie was playing in the water,” Angel said. As they walked past the

99. 2
hotel, Mark noticed Crystal and Chase out for a walk too. Chase lit a cigarette,
and Angel grabbed it from him. “Not good for you,” she said taking a puff.
“Hey you two. What are you guys up to this fine morning,” Mark asked
wrapping his arms around Angel. “Chase wanted to show me the cove he found
last night,” Crystal said. “You mean the one over the rocks? It’s really pretty,”
Angel said. Chase looked at her and her body temperature felt like it went up by
ten degrees. “Perfect spot for a picnic or something,” Mark said. Chase lit
himself a cigarette. “If you two don’t have any plans today, why don’t we all go
for a beach picnic,” Crystal suggested. “Sounds like a great idea,” Mark said
with his arms around Angel. He took a puff of her cigarette. Angel looked at
Chase and he looked back at her. “Why don’t we head back then and put
something together for the picnic,” Angel said trying to break Chase’s gaze.
“We’re going to head over then. We’ll see you in a little while,” Crystal said as
she walked towards the rocks with Chase.
Angel and Mark got back to the house and Angel headed for the kitchen to put
something together for the picnic. Mark leaned against her. “We don’t have to
rush over there do we,” Mark asked slipping Angel’s tank off. “I guess they
could wait,” Angel said as she turned to face Mark. He kissed her hard as she
wrapped her arms around him. “Just a little while longer,” Mark said. “What
happened to the day in bed,” Angel asked. He kissed her again picking her up
and carrying her upstairs. “That could be arranged,” Mark said. He slipped her
shorts off as well as his own kissing her and teasing her body to distraction. He
kissed from her neck, slowly down her body to her thigh. He licked and teased
her then made love to her. “Promise me no more fighting like that,” Mark asked.
“I can’t promise we won’t fight, but I can promise that making up will be fun,”
Angel teased. They got up and showered, then slipped on their bathing suits
and shorts, lunch and the cooler and headed down the beach with Goldie. Angel
brought her food in a separate bag.
When they got to the cove, they were off in the water. Angel and Mark laid out
the blankets and opened a drink for them. Angel sat in Mark’s lap with his arms
around her. When Chase and Crystal headed in, they were laughing. “Gees the
two of you are quick. Damn. Look at the food in here,” Chase said as he handed
a drink to Crystal. “Some of it was leftovers from the wedding,” Mark said.
“Must have been one heck of a wedding,” Crystal said. “Was definitely a good
surprise,” Angel said. “So tell me about the surprise,” Crystal said. Mark started
the story and Angel headed out into the water. Chase followed behind.
Angel swam out as far as she could, and was out of sight from Mark and Crystal.
Chase wasn’t far behind. “What did you tell her about last night Chase,” Angel
asked. “Nothing. Told her I went for a walk and was over here a while
thinking,” Chase said. “Why am I worried that she’s thinking something else

100. 2
then,” Angel asked. “Because you know you wanted more,” he said. “You
know that you shouldn’t be doing this. Why,” Angel said. “Can’t help myself
around you. There’s something I can’t put my finger on,” Chase said. “You
have to stop this. I am not even going there with you. It took all night and most
of this morning to convince him that nothing was going on. Don’t make me a
liar,” Angel said. He kissed her. Angel backed up and splashed him then swam
in to the beach. Chase pulled her back into the water and dunked her. “Oh
really,” Angel said. She pulled him under water and he kissed her again. She
pushed him away and swam the rest of the way in. “I will so get you back for
that,” Chase said. “Sounds like the wedding was like a fairy tale,” Crystal said
as Chase and Angel headed in. “I hope it was. Something we can both
remember for a long time to come,” Mark said. Angel sat down in his lap and
leaned her wet body against him. “Had fun I guess,” Mark said kissing her neck.
“If he hadn’t dunked me, we would have had fun,” Angel said. “You started it,”
Chase replied.
They sat around and enjoyed their picnic lunch. They had a drink or two and
played a while with Goldie. They swam around in the ocean playing around
and joking. Before they knew it, the sun was going down. “So what are the
lovebirds up to tonight,” Crystal asked. “Was going to take Angel out to a bar I
know. A friend of mine owns it. Why don’t you two come,” Mark suggested.
Chase looked at Angel and she returned his stunned look. “What do you think
Chase,” Crystal asked. “Sure,” he said. “Where,” Angel asked. “I don’t think I
have taken you there before,” he said. “It’s a place called ‘The Tree’,” Mark said.
Chase gave Angel a look that said he needed to talk to her. “Whatever. Sounds
fine to me,” Angel said. “I’m going back in for a while. Want to come Mark,”
Angel asked. “You two have fun. We’ll be here if you want us,” Mark said.
Chase chased Angel back out into the water. They swam back out and around
the corner again. “I gather you have no idea what that place is do you,” Chase
said. “Don’t even go there. Okay. I should have introduced you to him before,
but I didn’t. Get over it,” Angel said. “Would you shut up one minute. I didn’t
tell you why he feels nervous around me. I have met him before. I went to that
bar years and years ago with my first wife. Trust me. You don’t want to go
there,” Chase said. “Why’s that Chase,” Angel asked. “Unless you don’t mind
sharing, you really don’t want to.” Angel cut him off. “What the hell do you
mean sharing,” Angel asked. “Swinging,” Chase said. “Didn’t think you were
that kind of woman Angel. If I’d known.” Angel cut him off again and dunked
him in the water. “He would never,” Angel said. “If he doesn’t care about that,
then it could be perfect tonight,” Chase said. Angel pushed him away and sat up
on the rocks. “It’s something I never thought about let alone been to,” Angel
said. “If you are into new things, then go for it. If not,” he said. “We already
agreed though,” Angel said. “We could both weasel our way out of it. Your
choice,” Chase said. “What do you mean you met him before,” Angel asked.

101. 2
“Him and his ex. The one and only time I ever went somewhere like that,”
Chase said. “I think I need to talk to him. I’ll text you when I figure this out,”
Angel said. They hopped back into the water and went back to the picnic. “I am
just exhausted baby. Why don’t we head back home? We can relax a while
before we go,” Angel said. “I have reservations for dinner for us anyway
Crystal. Give us a call when you two are ready to go,” Chase said. They all
headed back.

102. 2
“So, what did you think of my idea,” Mark said as he walked back to the house
with Angel. “Just what kind of club are you taking me to Mark,” Angel asked
inquisitively. “Something a little different. Been there once or twice before,” he
said. “You still didn’t answer me,” Angel said. They headed into the house and
he kissed her heading up the steps to their bedroom. “Why won’t you answer
me,” Angel asked. “You’ll see later. Nothing too weird. It’s actually a pretty
cool place,” Mark said. “Chase said the place seems familiar to him,” Angel said.
“Really,” Mark said. “What’s with the secrets there Mark? I never heard you
even mention the place before,” Angel said. “So I guess he told you what kind of
bar it was,” Mark said pinning Angel to the bed. “And if he’s right, there’s
something we need to discuss,” Angel said. He kissed her and wrapped her leg
around him. “Is it,” Angel asked. He slid her bikini off kissing her stomach then
slowly moving down. “Don’t bother trying to change the topic Mark,” Angel
said. He kissed her again sliding his shorts off. They started to make love and it
suddenly dawned on her. “He’s right isn’t he,” Angel said. Mark kissed her
again trying to distract her. They finished and she got up. “He was right about
it wasn’t he? Why the hell would you have asked them to come to a place like
that Mark,” Angel said grabbing her robe and heading for the shower. She
locked the door behind her. Just the thought of it upset her. Why would he have
waited until now to share this with her? She had a long, hot shower, then pulled
her robe on and cleaned up. She walked past him and grabbed her jeans and
sweater. She took her book and sat outside. She lit a fire in the pit outside and
leaned back to read.
“So what do you think of the restaurant,” Chase asked as he sipped Champagne
with Crystal. “Another perfect choice,” Crystal said. “I have an idea. Why don’t
we skip that bar tonight and have a night in, just me and you,” he suggested
hoping she’d agree. “Mark told me about that place. It sounds like a great thing
to experience while we are here. Every time we were here we never got to go out
clubbing and dancing. Please,” she asked. “I somehow don’t think he told you
the whole thing about that place,” Chase said. “Like what,” Crystal asked.
“Trust me. If you were comfortable there, I would be in major shock,” Chase
said. “What’s the harm? We can go and see what it’s all about. If we have fun,
then we do and if we don’t we can go home,” Crystal said. “Okay. Just wanted
to make a point of saying that it wasn’t my idea,” Chase said. Crystal kissed him.
“It will be fun. We’ll dance and relax and enjoy ourselves. That Mark guy is a
really nice man. Angel is lucky to have him,” Crystal said. “I don’t think lucky
is the right word, but yeah. He is a nice person,” Chase said. They finished their
dinner, then headed back to the room to change for the night.
“You’re serious? You aren’t going. You are going to sit here and read instead of
going out,” Mark asked. “Any other secrets you wanted to tell me,” Angel
asked. “Why not just go and see what it’s about,” Mark asked. “So I take it

103. 2
that’s a no,” Angel said. “What do you want me to say,” Mark said. “You’ve
met Chase before. You met him and his ex-wife at that bar when you were with
your loonie tune ex,” Angel said. He was silent. “As I said…any other secrets
you failed to tell me before I married you,” Angel said. “I didn’t even
remember,” Mark said. “You’ve been there before and knowing me so well that
you just had to marry me, you figured that was somewhere I would go.
Figures,” Angel said grabbing his cigarettes and lighting one. “Stop. You can’t
just go with the flow? Crystal was the one that said she wanted to go somewhere
different. It was an idea. She’s the one that suggested we go,” Mark said. “And
you failed to tell her what kind of club right,” Angel said. “Please. For me,”
Mark said. “You are so barking up the wrong tree,” Angel said. “Please come. I
promise I will behave,” Mark said. “And you are sleeping on the sofa tonight
and the rest of the damn week unless you stop with the secrets,” Angel said. She
walked past him. She sent Chase a text.
Don’t have a damn choice. You two come over here.
She got a stomach ache just thinking about it. She did her hair and makeup and
pulled on one of her skimpy, sexy and tight dresses that Mark had never seen as
well as her favorite new pumps, again that Mark had never seen. She heard the
knock at the window and headed downstairs. “Damn Angel,” Chase said. “That
dress is really pretty,” Crystal said. She had on a little dress too. They were all
ready to hit the town, and Angel was ready to cause trouble. After a glass or two
each of champagne, they headed to the bar.

104. 2
Chapter 13
They hopped into Mark’s car and headed to the bar. Sue and Chase had a
cigarette shooting looks at each other the entire drive to the bar. “Looks like it’s
busy tonight,” Crystal said. “Probably,” Mark said. They pulled in and parked.
“Can you two give Angel and I a minute,” Mark asked. They hopped out of the
car and Angel tossed the last of her cigarette. She rolled up the window and
went to get out of the car. “Hold on,” Mark said grabbing her arm. “What Mark.
You wanted to come for what reason? Decided you like Crystal,” Angel said.
“Don’t start. You are the one who has a damn secret language with Chase,”
Mark said. “It’s called we’ve been friends for years. Longer than I have been
living in California. We know each other pretty damn well,” Angel said. “I
don’t want to fight with you. Can we try to have fun,” Mark asked. “You go
ahead and enjoy your fun,” Angel said getting out of the car and slamming the
door. Mark grabbed Angel’s hand as they headed inside. Chase shot her a look
asking if she was okay. He already knew the answer. They went in and grabbed
a drink. “What can I get you,” the bartender asked. “Martini,” Angel said.
“Make that two,” Mark said. “Come dance with me,” Mark asked. Angel went
with him. “Please. Stop this,” he said. “Fine. You can have what you want
tonight okay. Do whatever you please,” Angel said. He danced with her and by
the end of the song, he thought things were okay. He leaned in to kiss her and
she walked away. Crystal and Chase were dancing together and noticed what
happened. “Kind of nice to have a night out where you aren’t working isn’t it,”
Crystal said. “I miss dancing with you,” Chase said. “Me too,” Crystal said.
“We used to do this all the time when we were home alone. Whatever happened
to that,” she asked. “Lila,” Chase teased. “Good point,” Crystal said.
Angel and Mark walked back to the bar. “Why can’t you just relax and try to
have fun,” Mark asked. “No problem,” Angel said drinking her martini.
“You’re nervous aren’t you,” he asked. “Like you wouldn’t be if you’d never
been to a place like this. I mean, you did totally spring it on me from left field.
Give me a little credit. I am here,” Angel said. “Then stop being pissed off. We
are out with our friends. That’s all,” Mark said. A couple walked past them.
“Hey Mark. How are you? Long time no see,” they said. “You too. This is
Angel,” Mark said introducing her. “I heard about the wedding. Congrats you
two,” they said. “Thanks,” Angel said. “You are one lucky girl Angel. You
caught an amazing man there,” the woman said. “Definitely did,” Angel said.
“We should get together one night Mark. We have to catch up,” the man said.
“Definitely. I’ll let you know,” Mark said. Angel ordered another drink. “Once
in a while eh,” Angel said. He took the drink from her hand. “Okay. Once a
month I used to come. We had fun while it lasted. I haven’t been here since
because I didn’t want to scare you. I didn’t want you to think.” Angel stopped

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him. “Already been there. Don’t bring it up again Mark,” Angel said. She took
her drink.
Chase and Crystal came back over to where Angel and Mark were. “So what do
you think Crystal,” Mark asked. “It’s so cozy. They should have places like this
at home,” she said. Chase almost coughed out his drink. “They do. I’m not sure
where, but they do,” Chase said. “You have to promise to come here with us one
last time before we head home,” Crystal said. “No problem,” Mark said. “Dance
with me,” Chase said pulling Angel to the dance floor. She put her drink down
and went out onto the dance floor with Chase. “I wonder what the hell he’s
thinking right now,” Chase said. “Well, I guess since we are actually in this
place that maybe we should be a little more open-minded about it,” Angel said.
“As in? You aren’t thinking of doing something stupid are you,” he asked.
Angel put her head on his shoulder. “You aren’t going to do what I think you
are, are you?” “Well who better,” Angel teased. “She was pissed when she got
here. I am not spending a week with a woman who will be more than pissed.”
“Wanna help me with something later then,” Angel said. “Not if it’s what I think
it is,” Chase said. “You did last night,” Angel said. “Don’t even bring that up
unless you intend to fix what you start,” Chase said. “Never know. Crystal
could have more fun than she thought,” Angel teased. Chase laughed. “Evil
mind little girl. Evil mind,” he said.
“Something I don’t get about this place Mark,” Crystal said. “What’s that,” he
replied. “People I saw come in together are sort of cuddling and kissing other
people,” Crystal said. “Is that a problem,” Mark asked. “Not that I am a judge
or anything, but wouldn’t their significant others get a little miffed at that,”
Crystal asked. “It’s okay here. People meet and hang out. Make new friends,
some more friendly than others, if you know what I mean,” Mark said. “Are you
saying what I think you are saying,” Crystal asked. Chase and Crystal came
back over to the bar and Chase dragged Crystal onto the dance floor. “She just
figured it out didn’t she,” Angel asked. “And she’s cool with it,” Mark said.
“Sure she is. It hasn’t hit her yet that her man would be with someone else while
she was and think that it’s okay,” Angel said. “It’s not like that and you know it.
It’s a couple thing. If they click than they click and take it from there. Why do
you have to turn it into something nasty,” Mark said. “That is unless you are in
that tone of mind. Saw you two out there.” “And,” Angel said. “Nothing. I
didn’t even mean to mention it,” Mark said. “I know what you were thinking. If
you want to try that out, then who am I to say no,” Angel said. “See I knew it,”
Mark said. “Gotcha,” Angel said. “I know exactly why you brought them here.
You want it, you will get what’s coming to you,” Angel said. He kissed her and
pulled her to the corner. “Stop doing this. Why are you torturing me,” Mark
said. “You want to do that this early in the marriage, then fine. You go ask
them. I’ll go along with it if they do,” Angel said. He pulled her back to him

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kissing her hard. “I want you and you know it. I just thought the experience
would give us something different to do. Something to try,” Mark said. “Then
you go ahead and ask him. Remember one thing though. You can’t hold it
against me if you consent to it,” Angel said walking to the bar. She got another
martini.
Chase came back over to the bar with Crystal and got a drink for them. Angel
gave Mark a look that almost scared Chase. He’d seen her mad before, but this
was something altogether different. He wasn’t sure what to make of it. “Come
dance with me Crystal,” Mark said. “Okay girl. Spill. What have you caused,”
Chase asked. “Watch,” Angel replied. Crystal danced with Mark and chatted.
Mid way through the song, she backed away for a second then he talked to her
more. “What have you caused,” Chase asked. When the song was done, they
walked back over to Chase and Angel. Mark wrapped his arms around Angel
pulling her close to him. “She said yes,” Mark whispered. “What,” Angel said
turning around giving him the ‘death stare’ as Chase called it. Mark ordered
Angel another drink and got a beer for Chase. “Did you want a drink Crystal,”
Mark asked. “Cosmo,” Crystal replied. Crystal curled up to Chase.
“What have the two of you been plotting on the dance floor,” Chase asked.
“Nothing really. Come here for a minute,” Crystal said pulling him to the side.
“Don’t you dare tell me that she agreed to it,” Angel whispered to Mark. “There
are things you two don’t know. She definitely agreed,” Mark said. “Ground
rules,” Angel said. “Definitely. It’s nothing but what it is. Not to be taken
outside here. We are just friends who did this one night,” Mark said. “Why
them,” Angel said. “Who would you rather,” he said. “You like her don’t you,”
Angel asked. “She’s a great lady. I love you. They are two separate things. I
would never leave you for her, but she is kind of cute. I love you so much it
hurts. I can’t imagine the two of you, but if we agree on it, it’s done,” Mark said.
Chase walked towards Crystal and pulled her onto the dance floor.
“See what you caused. She is all for it. What the freaking hell,” Chase said. “Go
with the flow. The deal is that nobody takes this out of here, and it never gets
mentioned again. Nobody gets to be pissed,” Angel said. “So what are you
saying,” Chase said. “Come with me for a minute,” Angel said. She pulled him
into the other room. She kissed him in the dark hallway. “Tell me this isn’t
happening here. Come on,” Chase said. “Mark explained it. Sort of like when
you were at work, but touching is permitted and so is sex,” Angel said. He
kissed her hard pinning her into the wall. “Do you think we should go tell them
or something,” Angel said. Angel turned to look and Mark was dancing with
Crystal and kissing her neck. “I guess not,” Angel said. Chase pulled her into
the other room and into a dark and quiet corner. “Chase,” Angel said. “If only
you’d let me have a chance to see you before you married him,” Chase said.

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“Then what,” Angel said. He kissed her the way he had the night before.
“Chase. We can’t,” Angel said. He slid his hand up her skirt. “Then why did
you do this tonight,” he said noticing that she’d gone without that night.
“Trying to convince Mark,” Angel said. “The deal with him was only in here
right,” Chase said kneeling in front of her. “Yeah, but,” Angel said. He got
naked in front of her. It had been years since she’d seen him. He was more
toned and perfect than she had remembered. “Why does it feel wrong then,”
Angel said. He pulled out protection and slipped it on. “Chase, I really don’t
know,” Angel said. His touch gave her goose bumps. He kissed her shoulder
and pulled her close to him. In the darkest corner of the darkest room, she tried
to stay as quiet as possible. She felt exposed, but somehow she didn’t care. He
slipped her dress off and they had sex. Not a sound except heavy breathing.
After, Angel leaned back against him. Her heart was racing. She grabbed her
dress slipping it back on, and Chase got up getting rid of the evidence. “And
look at that. Your hair is still perfect,” Chase said.
They came back into the main room after a quick bathroom stop. Mark walked
towards Angel. “We okay,” he asked. “Why do you ask,” Angel said. He
pulled her to the side. “You sure we’re okay? I promise this won’t become a
regular thing. Once in a blue moon. I promise,” Mark said. Angel had flashes of
what had just happened. “As long as it’s only once in a blue moon, and
definitely not a regular thing, then fine,” Angel said. He kissed her. Angel
looked over and saw Crystal and Chase dancing closer than they’d been all day.
“I’m not going to ask,” Mark said. “Good,” Angel said. He looked at her and
she knew he was begging for something. Even just a breadcrumb. “And,” Angel
said. “And, was different,” Mark said. “Good different,” Angel asked. “She’s
totally not what she seems,” Mark said. “And?” “And he’s definitely changed
since the last time I saw him. When I first met him, I never would have
imagined,” Angel said. “I still love you though. He definitely isn’t you,” Angel
said. Mark kissed her strongly and pulled her to the dance floor. “Why don’t we
have another drink, then head home,” Angel said. “Really,” Mark said. Angel
kissed him. “You got it. Anything you want baby,” he said. They finished their
dance and grabbed one last drink. “You ready to get out of here,” Mark asked.
Everyone finished their drinks and they headed home. “So what did you think
Crystal,” Mark asked. “Definitely interesting. Different kind of fun than I am
used to,” she said. “I guess that’s good,” Mark said. “You two have been kind of
quiet,” Crystal said to Chase. “Nothing to say really,” he said. All Angel had to
do was look at him and he knew they were going to be having a late night
conversation over a cigarette on the beach that night.
Angel and Mark dropped Crystal and Chase off at the hotel and headed home.
“Why are you being so quiet,” Mark asked. “Nothing,” Angel said. They
headed into the house and Angel changed into her workout gear and shorts.

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“Where are you going? It’s 2am,” Mark said. “Going to take Goldie for her
walk,” Angel said. “Why don’t I do it,” Mark suggested. “Nope. Need some air
anyway. I’ll be back in an hour. I’ll even bring my cell in case you are
wondering where I am,” Angel said grabbing her cell and slipping it into her
pocket. She headed out with Goldie and walked straight towards the hotel.
“So did you have fun tonight,” Chase asked. “Definitely different. I really never
knew these places existed,” Crystal said. “So what do you think about it,” Chase
said. “Not something I would want to do all the time, but it’s different,” Crystal
said. “Something I can’t wrap my head around,” Chase said. “What’s that,”
Crystal said slipping on a satin teddy. “What made you so gung ho on the whole
thing? Aren’t we happy,” Chase said. “We are. I am anyway. Just something a
little different to spice things up,” Crystal said. Chase was quiet. He had a
feeling there was something she hadn’t told him. “What’s wrong,” she asked.
“I’m going to go outside and get some air for a while. I’ll be back in an hour or
so,” Chase said. “Wake me when you get back then,” Crystal said. Chase
headed out the door and saw Angel with Goldie.
Angel headed towards the cove. Goldie played around in the water a bit, then
Chase showed up. “About damn time,” Angel said. “I swear that woman has
secrets from me. I can’t comprehend why she was so for that tonight,” Chase
said. He sat down beside Angel. “Why are you being so quiet?” “She told
Mark. I know,” Angel said. “What? You know what,” Chase asked. “Before
you two had Lila,” Angel said. “She didn’t. How the hell did she have…but.”
Chase was in shock. “Did she tell him who,” Chase asked. “No. But I am sure
she would have if we hadn’t come to their rescue,” Angel replied. “Then what
we almost did last night,” he started to say. “Still not okay Chase. We haven’t
been like that at all and I don’t intend to start off our marriage with that,” Angel
said. He kissed her. Angel held him back. “You know you are only doing it
because of what I just told you,” Angel said. He kissed her again pinning her to
the sand. “I think you need to talk to her. This isn’t going to fix anything,”
Angel said. He unzipped her jacket and kissed her breasts. Angel pushed him
back. “We need to talk about what happened tonight,” Angel said. He kissed
her again. “And how it won’t be happening again.” “Not even if we come down
here and go to that place with you two again,” Chase said. “No. Never means
never,” Angel said. “Then there is one thing I want to do before I never get to do
this again,” Chase said. He slid his hand down the front of her shorts and kissed
her. “Stop,” Angel said. Her words said no, but her body said yes. “One last
time,” Chase whispered in her ear. “No. We can’t. Don’t try…” He kissed her
to silence her. She pushed him away and grabbed his hand getting up from the
beach. “What the hell are we doing Chase,” Angel asked. “Reminding myself
that somebody wants me,” Chase said. He kissed her again. “That may be, but
we have to go. Mark is going to lose it and so will Crystal if we don’t come back
for an hour or two,” Angel said. She grabbed his cigarettes and lit one for both

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of them. “Go. I am taking pup home. We aren’t doing this,” Angel said. He
kissed her pinning her into the rocks. “Go Chase,” Angel said. She headed off
and walked back to the house. Chase sat out on the beach for a while longer.
“What are you doing out here,” Crystal said coming out to sit with him. “Who
was it,” Chase asked. “Who what,” Crystal replied. “Who were you with,”
Chase said. He was being serious and she could tell he knew. “Nobody you
know. It was when we broke up for that little time when you and Jess…” “So
you are blaming me for it,” he asked. “No. It was a stupid mistake and it
happened once. That’s all. Since Lily has been born, it’s been you and me and
nothing else,” Crystal said. “So tonight,” Chase said. “Was a one-time thing.
Unless we decide…” Chase lit another cigarette. “I had a feeling for so long. I
just want to know who,” he said. “Someone I knew from a long time ago,”
Crystal said. “Do you love me,” Chase asked. “More than you can ever
imagine,” she replied. “Promise me that next time you even think…” “I will talk
to you. I promise,” Crystal said. She kissed him without much reaction from
him. “Come to bed baby. Please,” Crystal said. “I’ll finish this then I will be
up,” Chase said. She kissed him again and headed back in.
Angel walked up onto the patio and sat down finishing her cigarette. Mark came
out and curled up with her on the chair. “Bumped into Chase,” Mark asked.
“He’s not a happy man. He knows about Crystal,” Angel said. “Now I
understand why you were gone so long,” Mark said. “We were just talking. He
needed someone to talk to,” Angel said. “And you just happened to be the best
listener I have ever known. Are they okay,” Mark asked. “I don’t think tonight
helped, but yes. They will be anyway,” Angel said finishing her cigarette.
“Come inside,” Mark said. They headed into the house and he’d put candles all
around. “Romancing me are you,” Angel asked. He handed her a glass of
champagne and they sipped it. “Trying. It is supposed to be our honeymoon,”
Mark said kissing her. “Give me one minute then,” Angel said heading upstairs.
She slipped on her white satin lingerie and went to head downstairs when Mark
met her at the door. "So where did that come from,” he asked. “Was saving it
for our wedding night, but since I forgot about it, I figured tonight was as good
as any,” Angel said. He kissed her leaning her against the door. She kissed him
as he pulled her close to him. She slipped away and headed for the bed. He
came up behind her and pulled her against him kissing her neck hard. “So I get
you all to myself this week,” Mark said. “What about work,” Angel said.
“Honeymoon for a week,” Mark said. He slid the strap from her shoulders as the
satin gown fell to the floor. Angel tried to turn around but he pulled her closer.
They had sex, then curled up on the bed as he tried to tease her into round two.
“Mark stop okay,” Angel said. “What,” he said kissing her stomach and
wrapping her legs around him. “Not tonight,” Angel said. “What’s wrong,” he
asked. “After all of this tonight, I need some wind down time,” Angel said. His

110. 2
hand replaced where his lips and tongue had been. She couldn’t help but react
to him, but she was feeling kind of odd. The room was spinning. He kissed her
again and they made love, then Angel turned over and went to sleep.
When Angel woke up the next morning, she looked over at the clock and it was
noon. She looked around and Mark wasn’t in the room. She went to get up and
realized that either she had one heck of a hangover or the champagne didn’t
agree with her. Something wasn’t right. She went downstairs and poured
herself some orange juice and made breakfast, noticing two cups on the coffee
table. She went outside and found Chase and Mark. “Well hello. Slept well I
guess,” Mark said pulling her into his lap. “Must have,” Angel said. “You two
must have been up a while.” “I came over to talk to you this morning around 10,
but Mark told me you were still asleep,” Chase said. “Don’t know why I slept so
long. I never sleep like that,” Angel said. “So you still need to talk,” Angel
asked. “Talked to Mark. Guy to guy. Think everything will be okay,” Chase
said. Angel jumped up. “What,” Mark asked. “I have a doctor’s appointment at
1,” Angel said. She headed inside and changed and went to run out the door.
“Why don’t I drive you? I don’t really want to head back yet anyway,” Chase
offered. “Let’s go then. I don’t want to be late,” Angel said. They headed off to
the doctor’s. “Something is definitely up with you,” Chase said. “Just something
weird last night is all. Was dizzy before I headed to bed. We had some
champagne. Maybe it was just the bubbles,” Angel said. They pulled into the
parking lot and headed inside. Her appointment went fine, but the doctor said
she needed to do a routine blood check. “Can you check to see if anything else is
in her system that shouldn’t be,” Chase asked. “I’ll add it on,” she replied.
Angel got her blood done and headed back to the car with Chase. “What was
that for,” Angel asked. “Martinis don’t make you dizzy. I’ve known you
forever. Champagne won’t even do that to you,” Chase said. “What are you
getting at,” Angel asked. “Mark told me he was in the oddest mood last night
and said he was dizzy last night too. An old girlfriend was the one that gave you
guys the champagne,” Chase said. “Why would someone spike it with
something,” Angel asked. “Secondly, who gave it to him?” “A friend from the
bar that he used to know. She was trying to talk to him last night. Trust me.
That guy to guy chat was more of a fishing expedition,” Chase said. “Figures,”
Angel said. “He thinks someone slipped E into the bottle,” Chase said.
An hour or so later, Angel was curled up outside with Mark, Chase, Crystal and
Goldie and the phone rang. “Hi Angel. It’s the doctor’s office. I got that last test
result back,” she said. “And,” Angel asked. “Positive for extacy,” the doctor
said. Angel hung up. “Where is the bottle of champagne from last night,” Angel
asked. “Fridge,” Mark replied. Angel opened it and dumped the rest of the
bottle. “What are you doing,” Mark asked. “Spiked with E. Nice gift,” Angel
said. “What do you mean,” Mark asked. “They did a blood test and it came

111. 2
back positive for E,” Angel replied. “That explains it then,” Mark said. “Who
was it Mark,” Angel asked. “Does it matter,” he replied. “Yes. Tell me,” Angel
said. “It came by courier as a gift. I assume it was from my ex,” Mark said.
“Anything else I should know about Mark? Seem to be damn full of surprises,”
Angel said. She walked outside, grabbed Chase’s cigarettes and lit one for
herself walking down the beach. “I’ll go talk to her,” Chase said. “I didn’t know.
If I had, none of us would have had any champagne,” Mark said.
“Wait up Angel,” Chase said. “You know you are right. I should have waited. I
wish I’d known all this before Friday. What an idiot I am,” Angel said. “Hey.
That’s my friend you are insulting,” Chase said. “What the hell is up with all this
crap coming at me? I mean how many things can go wrong in two days,” Angel
said. “I have an idea. Wait here. I’ll be right back,” Chase said. He came back
10 minutes later with his car. “Where are you taking me Chase,” Angel asked.
“Down the beach more. Somewhere where we can talk alone,” Chase said. They
drove about 20 minutes down the road and sat out on the beach. “He said he
didn’t know that it was spiked. If he did, he’s a damn good actor. None of us
knew. Now I understand why what happened last night happened. By the time
you two dropped us off, it was out of our systems. Or at least I think it was,”
Chase said. “Why would she do that though? How could he have been so calm?
Wouldn’t he have had a reaction,” Angel asked. “If he hadn’t done it before,
yes,” Chase said. “I was reading while you were getting looked at.” “Great.
Now he goes to those bars and he does E,” Angel said. “Stop. He is a good guy.
He just likes to spice things up. That’s all. Crystal and I tried it once. I had a
feeling that’s what it was. That’s why I got them to do that test. Your true
emotions come out when you are on it,” Chase said. “So on the beach last night,”
Angel asked. “More than anything I have ever wanted before,” Chase said. “I
still do and I don’t need that to get me to say it.” Angel leaned her head on his
shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her. “Just chill on him okay? He really
didn’t know. He’s a good guy, he’s just a little more adventurous than the rest of
us,” Chase said. “I guess,” Angel said. He turned to kiss her forehead and
kissed her. They leaned back onto the sand as he wrapped his arms around her.
“See this is how I should be with him. Why has everything gone so wrong,”
Angel asked. “Come on. I am taking you back to the house. Crystal should be
there by now and I don’t want anything else going on,” Chase said.
They pulled back into the driveway and Mark and Crystal came out to greet
them. Mark grabbed Angel’s hand. “You know Crystal, you are one lucky girl.
Chase is such a great guy,” Angel said. “That I definitely know,” Crystal replied.
“I was just telling Crystal about what you found out about the champagne,”
Mark said. “And,” Angel said. “Was wondering why I was all hot all night.
Now I know,” Crystal said. “And I thought it was because you were next to the
toaster oven,” Chase teased. “That too,” Crystal said as Chase wrapped his arms

112. 2
around her. “So what are you two up to today,” Mark asked. “He’s taking me
on a tour of the area, romantic style,” Crystal said. “You two have fun today
then. I think I may just relax out here today,” Angel said. “Have something
planned for you too,” Mark said. “I know. Hence the reason I said relaxing by
the beach,” Angel teased. Chase gave Angel a hug goodbye. “Remember,” he
said. Angel nodded and Chase and Crystal headed off.
“Remember what,” Mark asked. “Nothing,” Angel said. She went inside and
slipped into the bedroom to get her bikini. “So you know, it wasn’t my fault.
Next time, no accepting champagne without a card and a total bottle check for
puncture marks,” Mark said. She slipped the top on. “Let me help you with
that,” Mark said. He untied it. “Trying to put it on, not take it off,” Angel said.
He turned her around and kissed her throwing the top onto the bed. “I’m sorry
about that last night. I am,” Mark said. “I know. Would like a warning next
time you decide to spring something like that on me okay,” Angel said. He
kissed her and she leaned back on the bed. “I swear Mark. You do have the
oddest timing,” Angel said as he leaned on top of her and slid her to the center of
the bed. He kissed her, holding her in his arms. “Now this is what we should be
doing all week,” Mark said. “Let me check my schedule…..hmmmm. I think I
have time,” Angel said as he kissed her again. She slid her shorts off and he
pushed them to the floor. He kissed her neck, shoulders, chest and moved
down. Angel closed her eyes and for a split second saw Chase’s face. He licked
and teased then worked his way back up to kiss her again. They made love, then
curled up together in bed. “You know, this feels better. No more little tiny
secrets,” Mark said. “Promise me that you won’t spring anything else on me.
That you will tell me the truth,” Angel said. “Okay,” he replied. “Is there
anything else, like the fact that you’d been to that bar we went to last night
before, that you want to tell me,” Angel asked. “Wasn’t my first time on that
drug. I used it with my ex. The fact that you turn me on in minutes….hmmmm.
Can’t think of anything else right now,” Mark said. “How often,” Angel asked.
“When we would go to that club. I went more often with her, because that’s
what we decided we wanted. It was more fun that way,” Mark said. “Good to
know,” Angel said. She slid out of bed and pulled her bathing suit on and
grabbed a towel heading outside. She grabbed Mark’s cigarettes and sat down
on the chaise with Goldie slipping her sunglasses on and lighting a cigarette.
Mark came out a little while later with two glasses of orange juice in champagne
glasses. “What’s this,” Angel asked. “Champagne and OJ,” Mark said. “New
bottle,” Angel asked. “New mini bottle. Just enough for two glasses,” Mark
said. They sipped their drinks and relaxed on the patio with their puppy. Angel
worked on her writing, that she loved to do as a hobby, and Mark went over his
papers from the office. “What you writing,” Mark asked. “Starting a short
story,” Angel said. “About,” he asked. “A little of this and that,” Angel replied.

113. 2
Her story was about a torrid love affair between two people who were married
to other people, but were so in love they couldn’t hide it. Not something she
wanted Mark to get his hands on. By the time she stopped, it was 15 pages. He
tried to read over her shoulder, but couldn’t. He grabbed it from her hands and
tried to run and read it. What he read made him realize just how sexual Angel
was. “Pretty good,” Mark said. “Give it to me Mark,” Angel said. “Oh I intend
to. Tonight and every other….” Angel kissed him and grabbed the notebook
from his hand. She went inside and showered. Mid-way through, he slipped in
with her. “Well hello there,” Angel said. He kissed her hard, backing her up to
the wall of the shower. She wrapped her leg around him. They had sex in the
shower, then the bathroom counter, then the bed. Angel’s stomach started to
rumble. “I’ll order something, but we aren’t leaving this room,” Mark said. The
feel of his warm body against hers felt so good. She couldn’t explain it. It’s like
her hormones surged that day. She couldn’t explain it….or could she.

114. 2
Chapter 14
The next morning, Angel got up early and headed off for her morning run with
Goldie. Chase joined her part way and they jogged down to the far end of the
beach, then back. “So how was your night,” Angel asked. “She ate it up. It was
great. Just like when we were dating,” Chase said. “You?” “Very interesting.
Got some writing done and then spent the evening in bed,” Angel said. “Really.
I guess you two are okay now,” Chase said. “Okay yes. Great, no,” Angel said.
“What’s wrong now,” Chase said as they stopped for a water break. “He was
practically in heat last night. I mean two nights in a row of him on me like white
on rice,” Angel said. “You think that he was lying about the E,” Chase asked.
“No. I just wonder what was up with him,” Angel said. “Be happy. You’re still
newlyweds. You’re supposed to be like that,” Chase said nudging her shoulder.
“I know, but ever since the champagne thing, I have been weary,” Angel said. “I
know. It will take time. So what you two up to tonight,” Chase asked.
“Probably more of the same. I was actually thinking about heading to a drive-in
if there are any anymore,” Angel said. “You know, that’s a cool idea,” Chase
said. They grabbed a paper and looked for one. They found one playing some
pretty good movies. Angel tore off the section of paper and slipped it in her
pocket. “So meet up for dinner, then movies,” Chase asked. Angel nodded.
“Now back to me racing your butt to the hotel,” Angel said as she ran off with
Goldie.
When Angel got home, she sat down on the chair outside and finished off her
water. Goldie was inhaling the water in her dish. Mark came outside and spidey
kissed Angel. “So how was your run,” Mark asked. “Found an idea for tonight.
What do you think,” Angel said pulling the page out of her pocket. “Sure.
Crystal called and said they wanted to treat us to dinner tonight, so we can go
before the movie. “Good plan,” Angel said. He untied her runners, slipping
them off. “Is it me or is it hot out here today,” Angel asked. “It’s a lot warmer
than yesterday. I guarantee you that,” Mark said. She looked at the
temperature. It was the same as yesterday. She filled up her water bottle and
headed for a shower. When she came back downstairs in her bikini, Mark was
reading what she’d written the day before. “What you reading,” Angel asked.
“Damn you can write,” Mark said. Angel straddled him in the chair. “Well
thank you,” she said. “So who is it about,” he asked. “Just made the characters
up,” Angel said. “They must have been based on someone,” he said. “Nope,”
Angel replied. “You sure it wasn’t about us,” Mark asked. She had no intention
of telling him who it was about. “A little maybe, but not intentionally,” Angel
said. She kissed him to distract him from the writing. He put the book down,
wrapping his arms around Angel. “Good mood today,” he said. “Better,” Angel
said. “How good,” he asked. “Good enough to be curled up with you today,”
Angel said. He kissed her wrapping his arms around her. “And look at that,

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your bikini top fell off,” Mark said. She slid it over her head and dropped it to
the ground. “Want to put some lotion on my back for me,” Angel asked.
“Depends on where,” Mark teased. He sat up and put the sunscreen on her back
for her then moved his hands around to help her with the sunscreen on her chest.
“I think I can handle that half on my own,” Angel said. “See, there’s one spot
you miss,” he said wiping his hands from the lotion. “And what’s that,” Angel
said leaning back on him. His hand slid down her torso. “I know what you are
thinking,” Angel said. His fingers slid under the bikini bottoms across her soft
skin. “Not out here,” Angel said. “Definitely out here,” Mark said. His fingers
teased and prodded her. She linked her fingers with his. Her body moved with
each move. “You want me don’t you,” he whispered in her ear. He could hear
her deep breathing and knew the answer was yes. “Mark, we can’t do this out
here,” Angel said. His fingers went deeper. “Shit Mark,” Angel said. The
minute her hand tightened he untied the bottoms and had sex with her on the
patio. “We…..can’t…..do…… this….out…..here,” Angel said. The more she
tried to stop it, the better it got. She felt every muscle against her back grinding
with every movement she made. When his muscles stiffened, she knew no
matter how she protested, this was so good she couldn’t deny it. Angel curled
up next to him as he held her close.
She could feel their hearts racing in unison. “Full of surprises,” Mark said.
“That you definitely are,” Angel said. They relaxed a little while. His hands slid
slowly down her torso. “Where did that come from,” Angel said as she felt
something against her skin. “Your red bag,” Mark said as she heard a quiet faint
buzzing noise. All she could tell was that buzzing noise was making her legs
quiver. He turned her over laying on top of her and slid down to meet his hand
with his tongue. “Mark,” Angel said. The buzzing noise was still going except it
was on his tongue and teasing her. “So totally unfair,” Angel said as her leg
muscles tightened. “Mmmm,” Mark said. He worked his way back up and
kissed her. The noise was gone. “More what you had in mind for this week,”
Mark asked in between kisses. “That and a few other things,” Angel said. “Such
as,” he asked. “Later,” she replied. He kissed her chest again and was heading
for round three. She motioned for him to come back and kiss her again. “Follow
me,” Angel said. She grabbed her bikini from the ground and pulled it back on.
“Come in the water with me,” Angel said as she tied her suit and ran for the
water. He pulled on his bathing suit and ran after her.
Raven had called and called over the past few days. She knew they had no plans
to go away. Around 5 that afternoon, Angel finally called her back. “Well it’s
about damn time,” Raven said. “Nice hearing from you too,” Angel said. “So
how is the honeymoon,” she asked. “Definitely different,” Angel said. She had
no motivation to tell Raven about the club. “Come on in girls. I’ll throw her on
speaker. Okay. We’re all here. Close the door. Okay. So where did he take you

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last week? All we were told was that the wedding was going to be Friday
evening. Spill girl,” Raven said. “We went to Santa Barbara to his cottage, then
down the coast to an island for a few days. Then we hung out there and headed
back on Wednesday,” Angel said. “Okay. More details girl! Come on,” Alicia
said. “His grandmother’s cottage is in Santa Barbara. It’s so cute. Just like in an
affair to remember,” Angel said. “Okay. So what about this island. Where was
it,” Aubrey asked. “Kawaii. It’s really beautiful. Quiet cottages and privacy. It
really was almost perfect,” Angel said. “Andy told me about it. The pictures
online don’t do it justice though I imagine,” Aubrey said. “Definitely not. It was
perfect,” Angel said. “So how was your first weekend as a married chick,” Alicia
asked. “Definitely interesting. Did you know that Chase was in town,” Angel
asked. “Oh damn. The hottie from up north,” Raven said. “He said he had
expected the wedding would be in December. He didn’t make it to the
wedding,” Angel said. “I sent everyone from out of town emails and called. He
couldn’t get down until after the wedding,” Alicia said. “No problem,” Angel
said. “Isn’t he married now anyway,” Raven asked. “You darn well know the
answer to that Raven,” Angel said. “So what does Mr. Chase think of Mark,”
Aubrey asked. “They are cool now. Not so much when I disappeared with
Chase for a walk, but good now,” Angel said. “And just what was your newly
married ass doing on a walk with Hottie anyway,” Raven asked. “Talking.
We’re actually on our way out with them tonight,” Angel said. “Give him a kiss
for us,” Alicia said. “Will do ladies. I’ll call you on Saturday. We’ll all go do
something together,” Angel said. “Good idea girl,” Aubrey said. They all hung
up and Angel headed out with Mark.
Mark and Angel picked up Chase and Crystal and they headed off to the
restaurant. “So where to tonight,” Crystal asked. “It’s one of Angel’s favorites,”
Mark replied. They pulled into Copa and Angel laughed. “There may be some
rowdy girls and their boyfriends that try to bug us tonight,” Angel said.
“They’re having a girls night tonight,” Chase asked. “You know they are going
to come over to say hi. They haven’t seen you in years,” Angel said. They all
headed in. Chase pulled Crystal back for a second. “What,” she asked. “They
are 3 of Angel’s friends. I only know them through her. No freaking out,” Chase
said. “Thanks for the warning, but I think I will be okay,” she said kissing him.
They headed in behind Angel and Mark. “Thanks Greg,” Angel said as he sat
them at Angel’s favorite table. “By the way, they made a reservation. One table
to your left,” he said as he took their drink orders. Right on time, they all
showed up and came right over to the table. They all hugged Chase and Angel
and introduced their boyfriends. “Looking good Chase,” Raven said. “Thanks.
Nice seeing you guys again,” Chase said sitting down with Crystal. Mark had
his arms around kissing Angel’s neck. “We’ll let you have dinner. Have a good
night you guys,” Aubrey said. They headed to their table and Angel laughed.
“As I said. The crazy girls I am friends with and their boyfriends,” Angel said.

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They had a nice dinner together then headed off for the movie. Mark had
brought the convertible that night so they all had lots of room to stretch out and
relax.
Part way into the movie, Mark and Angel curled up together in the front seat,
while Chase and Crystal sat in the back. “Have an idea,” Angel whispered to
Mark. “What’s that,” he said. He knew she had a skirt on. He noticed her
moving. “Where are you going,” he mouthed. “I’m just going to go grab a
drink,” Angel said as Mark followed. “Grab me one too,” Chase asked. Angel
shot him a look and they both grinned. He knew her so well.
“Where are we going,” Mark asked. Angel kissed him. “Follow me,” Angel
said. Angel headed for the refreshment stand and got their drinks, bending over
the counter. Mark was standing behind her. “She didn’t,” he thought to himself.
She pulled his arms wrapping them around her waist. He gulped. “Thanks,”
Angel said as she got the drinks. “I can’t believe you,” Mark said. “Not a whole
lot, but I am wearing something,” Angel said quietly in his ear. He took her
hand leading her to the men’s room. “No. Ladies,” Angel said. It was a one
person at a time bathroom. He locked the door and took the drinks from her
hands. “I can’t believe you,” Mark said. “Can’t believe I did this or can’t believe
where,” Angel asked. He kissed her pinning her against the wall. He grabbed
her legs picking her up and wrapping them around him. “You are crazy you
know that,” he asked. She kissed him again as they had sex against the wall,
sink etc. After they headed back to the car and she sat back in his lap. “Here
Chase,” Angel said. He laughed. “Thanks,” he replied. They finished watching
the movie as Angel continued to tease Mark. “Was going to suggest going
dancing after the movie if you guys are interested,” Mark said. “Not where you
are thinking, but Vibes is good tonight,” Angel said. “Not where I was thinking
eh,” Mark said. Angel kissed him. “Or we could go to that place we were at the
other night. The music was good,” Crystal said. “Pretend she didn’t say that,”
Chase teased. “And why is that,” Crystal said. “You serious? You want to go
back there,” Chase asked. “I don’t think it’s open tonight to be honest. I think
it’s only open on the weekends,” Mark said. “There is a similar place, but it’s a
lot different during the week.” “Such as,” Angel said still in his lap with her
hand under her. “It’s a strip club during the week,” Mark said. “Why not,”
Angel said. “Sure,” Crystal replied. Angel looked over at Chase and smiled.
They both started to laugh. The movie finished and Angel kissed Mark. She slid
over to her seat and Chase and Crystal slid back down to their seats. Mark had
Angel’s hand in his, in his lap.
They pulled into the parking lot and headed in. Nothing that any of them hadn’t
seen before. They had a drink or two, then Angel got Mark a dance. “You are so
coming with me,” Mark said. “Be right back then,” Angel said. They headed off

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to the VIP. “So what would you like,” the lady asked. “Dance for her,” Mark
said as Angel sat between his legs on the chair. She started the dance and Angel
could tell just the thought of it was turning him on. Oddly enough, it had the
same reaction on her. When the dance was done, they paid her and Angel
finished the dance for Mark. “So totally not fair,” he said. “I know you
remember,” Angel whispered. “No touching,” she teased. She got him so badly
that he took her hand pulling her outside. They hopped in the car and had sex.
“11-8,” Mark said. “The master reigns,” Angel said. “P.S. 11-9.” “Ooh. I got
points,” Mark teased. Angel kissed him. “Oh. Those points,” he said. Angel
hopped up and out of the car and they headed back inside. They headed back to
the table. Chase started laughing. “What you laughing at? You’re next you
know,” Angel teased. “Tease times ten,” Chase said. “And proud of it,” Angel
said. “How would you know Chase,” Crystal asked. “Who do you think she
learned it from,” Chase said laughing. “Figures,” Crystal said laughing. A little
while later, Angel got a dance for Chase and Crystal. “Enjoy,” Angel said.
“So he taught you everything eh,” Mark said. “Nope. Just certain things,” Angel
said. “So how exactly did you meet him,” Mark asked. “He worked at a bar I
went to in my twenties,” Angel said. “What kind of bar,” Mark asked. “A club,”
Angel said. “This kind of club,” he asked. “And he was the hottest guy there,”
Angel said. “Nice friends you have,” Mark said. “We became pretty good
friends. I had a thing for him years and years ago when he was married to his
first wife,” Angel said. “And did you two ever…..” “No comment. Crystal
doesn’t know and never will. It was before her anyway,” Angel said. “Really,”
Mark said. “Yep,” Angel replied. “So the other night wasn’t full of nerves was
it,” Mark asked. “It was. Beyond nerves,” Angel said. “And,” he asked. “Why
do you keep asking? You didn’t want to know before,” Angel said. “I do now,”
he said. Angel sat in his lap. “Same as before, but better,” Angel said. “Why,”
Mark asked. “The fact of where we were, what was in the champagne. The
whole thing,” Angel said. “So you really are okay with the other night,” Mark
asked. “As long as we agree on it, fine,” Angel said. “Friday night then. Before
they head home. Crystal asked,” Mark said. “She wants more of you,” Angel
said. “Not quite,” he replied. “We’ll see okay,” Angel said. He kissed her.
Angel went up and tipped one or two of the ladies and they turned it into a
female threesome on the stage. They finished and came by the table. “Follow
us,” they said as Angel and Mark followed them.
Chase and Crystal headed back to the table after their dance. “We have to get
out of here,” Chase said. Crystal wrote them a note and left it with the waitress.
They headed outside. Somehow, it was a major turn on for them both. They had
sex in the parking lot, against the car, in the backseat. They got dressed then sat
back in the car. “Where the hell are they anyway,” Chase said.

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Angel and Mark sat down facing each other, the ladies in the middle. The dance
went from calm, to hot to sizzling in minutes. They took turns with Mark and
Angel. One took Angel’s hand sliding it between her legs then grinding in her
lap, while the other one danced and grinded against Mark. Back and forth for
what seemed like an hour. By the time the dance was done, Mark and Angel
were definitely ready to head home – quickly. They headed outside then around
the back. They had sex against the wall then walked towards the car. “About
time you two,” Chase said. “If you only knew,” Angel said. She kissed Mark
hard and they headed home. “So Friday night, if you two still want to, the bar is
open,” Mark said. “You mean the one,” Crystal said. “Yep. I’ll add us to the
guest list,” Mark said. Angel nodded. They headed to the hotel and dropped
Chase and Crystal off, then headed home.
They pulled into the driveway and headed inside. Angel grabbed herself some
ice water. Mark walked into the kitchen behind her and leaned against her
wrapping his arms around her. He kissed her neck as his hands slid down the
front of her dress. She leaned her head back and kissed him then tried to make
her way to the staircase. She put her glass down on the step and sat down. He
was one step behind her. She tried backing up the steps, but he pulled her legs
to him wrapping them around him. He pulled open the front of her dress
revealing the see through lingerie she’d chosen to tempt him with that night. She
knew at that moment that she had got the reaction she wanted. He pulled it to
release her breast from the bra as he laid against her. “Come to bed,” Angel said.
He kissed her hard letting her know that a bed was not in his plans. He slid the
top of her dress off her shoulders as he undid her bra and threw it to the side.
He kissed her hard. She could feel him against her stomach. This just wouldn’t
wait. He slipped her g-string off, licking and kissing her, teasing her to
distraction. He slid a finger insider her, kissing her hard. He felt her breathing
start to speed up. He pulled his jeans off with one hand while still playing with
her with the other. They had sex on the steps. It was raw and urgent. Every
movement pulsated through her. It was hot. It was as if her sexual senses were
heightened to extreme sensitivity. Every motion sent waves of pleasure through
her. It was so hot that she reacted in ways she hadn’t before with him. After,
they were both drenched in sweat and collapsed on the steps. Angel grabbed for
her ice water. She took out one of the ice cubes running it against her hot skin.
He took it from her hand sliding it down between her legs. He kissed her hard
as she tried to make her way backwards up the stairs. She got to the top step and
got up heading towards their bedroom.
She got to the door and he grabbed her hand leaning her against the wall. He
kissed her again. He slid her dress off of her kissing down her side. His hands
slid up to her chest as he kissed and fondled her breasts. He kissed her hard
again pulling her to him. She tried to back into their bedroom, and was pinned

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against a post of their bed. Their hearts were still racing. Their breathing was in
unison. Every kiss shot waves of desire through them. She moved and laid on
the bed with him following her every move within seconds. He kissed her body
from top to bottom, not missing a spot. He kissed back up her leg stopping and
teasing her. With every lick, every kiss, every touch she wanted him even more.
She stared into his eyes and he worked his way back up her body. They made
love again, finally collapsing in each other’s arms. He kissed her feeling her
heart race. She looked into his eyes and saw the animal he was becoming. He
had an appetite that she couldn’t tame. The more they did, the more they both
started to want it. They couldn’t get enough. It was like a drug habit they didn’t
want to kick. “Something tells me that the dancing is going to soon become a
regular thing isn’t it,” Angel asked. “If you do what you did tonight, definitely,”
he said kissing her. “So you liked my little plan did you,” Angel said. He kissed
her stomach, slowly moving down. “Okay. I take it that’s a yes,” Angel said.
He moved lower as his hand brushed her thigh. “That is a definite yes,” Mark
said breathing hot air on her. His fingers slid into her as he kissed her breast.
She went to beg him to stop as he slid in a second finger teasing her. He kissed
her stomach as her muscles quivered with every flick of his fingers. He kissed
her hard as his fingers teased her, every movement sending ripples of pleasure
through her. He slid his fingers out wrapping both arms around Angel as she
wrapped her legs tight around him. Her warmth turned him on. He kissed her
again in what felt like a never ending wave of kisses. They made love again then
he curled up in her arms. Not a word was said the rest of the night. Angel
realized what she’d got herself into. “Be careful what you wish for,” a little voice
in her head said. “And I definitely got it,” she said to herself silently as she felt
his heart beating in time with hers. His body pulsating against her.

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Chapter 15
That Friday came faster than expected. Angel and Mark didn’t see much of
Chase and Crystal until that night. As soon as Chase’s car pulled into the
driveway, Angel started getting butterflies. “They’re here,” Mark said wrapping
his arms around Angel’s waist. “I noticed,” she replied. He kissed her holding
her close to him. Chase knocked and came in with Crystal. “Well hello there
stranger,” Angel said giving Chase a hug. “How are you two? Enjoying your
trip,” Mark asked. “Definitely,” Crystal said. “So what have you two been up to
the past couple of days,” Angel asked. “Shopping, walking around, hanging out.
You know. Same old same old,” Chase said. “Found a great little shop not too
far from here. They had the cutest dresses,” Crystal said. “Looks great on you,”
Angel said. “You look stunning yourself,” Crystal replied. “Just a little
something I found in the back of my closet,” Angel said. She’d found a dress
she’d worn when her and Chase were together. Still fit her like a glove and
showed every perfect curve. “So, we…..made a reservation at Bellini’s for
dinner. Our treat,” Chase said looking over at Angel. “Sounds great. Why don’t
we get going,” Mark said. “I just have to grab something from upstairs. I’ll meet
you in the car,” Angel said kissing Mark. “Have to make a pit stop myself. I’ll
meet you two out there,” Chase replied. Mark and Crystal headed out to the car
and Chase followed Angel. “Looked for you the past two nights. Where the hell
have you been,” Chase asked. “Busy. We took her out early,” Angel said. “You
know how much she was looking forward to tonight? It’s creeping me out,”
Chase said. “Like you haven’t,” Angel said. “Now that I have seen you in that
dress, definitely,” he paused. Angel snapped her purse shut. “What’s wrong
Chase,” Angel asked. “You don’t want to know,” he said. He walked towards
her. “They’re waiting,” Angel said walking towards him. She met his glance eye
to eye. She broke the gaze and walked past him.
They headed off to the restaurant chatting all the way there. Chase was oddly
quiet. Crystal leaned on his shoulder, holding his hand. Angel turned to talk to
Crystal and Chase and noticed him staring her in the eye. “So you two had a
great time being tourists,” Mark said. “Definitely. There are so many cute little
places around here. We went to all the shops that we don’t have at home. It
really was cute,” Crystal said. Angel turned back to face the front. Mark kissed
her hand. “So did you see the Fredericks store,” Angel asked. “Definitely. What
a massive variety. The one that I went to closer to home has nothing like that
one,” Crystal said. “There is one bigger, but I’m not sure if you can handle it,”
Angel said. “Don’t tell me it’s the Hustler place,” Crystal said. “Kind of in an
odd area to find,” Angel said. “After dinner, before the bar,” Crystal asked.
“Definitely,” Mark replied sliding his hand onto Angel’s thigh. They pulled into
the parking lot of the restaurant. They all hopped out of the car and headed for

122. 2
the door of the restaurant. Mark turned and kissed Angel. “Okay. Now I am
ready for dinner,” Mark said.
They headed inside and had a nice quiet dinner. “So what have the two of you
been up to,” Crystal asked. Mark slid his hand on Crystal’s thigh gradually
working his way up. “Honeymooning,” Mark said. His hand slid under her g-
string. “Just been relaxing mostly,” Angel said trying to stop Mark’s hand. “The
weather here really is beautiful. You should get to enjoy it,” Crystal said as
Chase stared at Angel again. She caught his gaze. “So does anyone want some
coffee or anything,” Angel asked trying to change the topic. “Dessert sounds
good,” Mark said teasingly. Her fingers linked with his trying to get him to stop.
“Let’s have a coffee. Going to be a long night,” Chase said still staring at Angel.
“Sounds good. 4 coffees please,” Angel said as the waiter headed off for the
coffee.
They finished dinner then headed to the store as Angel and Mark had promised.
Chase pulled Angel off to the side. “Tonight. After we get back. The cove,”
Chase said. “I can’t. I won’t be able to,” Angel said. “Or 7AM tomorrow,”
Chase said. “Morning then,” Angel said as they headed back over to Mark and
Crystal. “What you two chatting about,” Mark said as he linked fingers with
Angel. “Nothing. Just our silly alternate language,” Angel teased. “What did
you decide on,” Angel asked Mark. “You’ll see later,” he whispered in her ear.
“I’ll be over here if you need me then,” Angel said walking towards the clothing
section. She picked out an item or two and paid for them where Mark couldn’t
see. “Also that item in the black package over there. Please try to keep it a secret
okay,” Angel said. They threw in a few freebees and handed her a bag. “Found
a few things did you,” Mark said as she took her bag. “Fair is fair,” Angel said.
Crystal and Chase paid for their items and they all headed to the car. Angel
slipped something into her purse as they pulled out of the parking lot and off to
the bar.
They headed inside when they got there. The nerves that Angel had before were
gone. They ordered a drink or two to calm whatever nerves were still there.
They danced a while on the dance floor. “May I,” Chase asked as he pulled
Angel out for a slow song. “How many did you bring,” he asked. “Enough,”
Angel replied quietly in his ear. “She wants it to be someone else. You have to
come meet me in the morning,” Chase said. “Fine,” Angel said. “I want you
more now than I did the first time I saw you in that dress,” Chase said. “And
look at how much fun that was,” Angel teased. The song finished and they
headed back over to Crystal and Mark. “Angel, this is a friend of mine. Carl,
Lacey, this is my wife Angel. This is Chase and Crystal, some friends of ours,”
Mark said. They chatted a while. They danced, then chatted then danced some
more. Carl asked Angel to dance. “You look hot tonight Angel,” Carl said.
“Thanks for the compliment,” Angel replied. “I have a proposition for you,” he

123. 2
said quietly. He told her his idea. The butterflies came back. “Not really my
thing,” Angel said. “You sure there’s nothing I can do to change your mind,” he
asked. “Definitely not,” Angel said. She walked back over to Mark. “Can I have
a quick chat with you for a minute,” Angel asked. She pulled him off to the side.
“You knew what he was suggesting didn’t you,” Angel asked. “Could be fun,”
Mark said. “Or not,” Angel said. “I want to see the look on your face. Please,”
he said. “Why that? I mean really,” Angel said. He kissed her again leaning her
against the wall. “I wanna see your face. So does Carl,” Mark said. “I don’t
even know these people Mark,” Angel said. “If I told you it was a fantasy of
mine,” he asked as his fingers grazed her breast. “If that’s true, then maybe it’s
better off staying that way,” Angel said. He kissed her. “I don’t know Mark. It
just doesn’t seem,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “It’s a fantasy. I’ll be right
there,” he said. He kissed her again. “See what happens when I think of it,” he
said as he leaned against her. “You sure,” Angel asked. He kissed her again. He
took her hand leading her back to the group. Mark nodded at Carl and his wife.
They had a few more drinks, then Mark went into the back with Angel. “I love
you,” he said. “I love you too,” Angel said kissing him. Chase followed with
Crystal and Carl and his wife followed. Chase wrapped his arms around
Crystal. Angel watched as Crystal and Mark headed to the chair that was
directly facing the chair that she would be in. “You smell so good,” Chase said.
He untied the front of her dress, revealing the lingerie that she’d bought to
surprise Mark. His hand slid down the front of her g-string. She couldn’t bare to
see Mark with Crystal. She closed her eyes as Chase pulled her onto him in the
chair. She turned around to face Mark. Carl’s wife kissed and fondled her.
Angel tried to close her eyes, but somehow the entire thing just overwhelmed
her. She had no control over it. It was so different. Felt so strange to her. She
reacted. She closed her eyes imagining it being Mark.
When it was all over, Angel headed outside for a cigarette. Mark was right
behind her. He wrapped his arms around her kissing her neck from behind.
“Holy shit. I can’t believe that,” Mark said. “No more of that. None. Promise
me we won’t be coming for a while,” Angel said. “God it was worth it to see that
look on your face,” Mark said. “I’m getting in the car. I think it’s time we went
home,” Angel said. Angel broke free from his arms and headed for the car. A
few minutes later, Chase and Crystal came out towards the car with Mark.
Angel got in.
Not a word was said between Mark and Angel on the way home. Chase knew
what that meant. “Getting a little icy in here. Mind turning on the heat,” Chase
said. Angel turned it on, still silent. “I’ll give you guys a call in the morning,”
Chase said hopping out of the car with Crystal. “We aren’t leaving this parking
lot until you speak to me,” Mark said. “There’s nothing to say Mark,” Angel

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said. “Yes there is. You could have said no,” Mark said. “Let’s just say that
there will be no more yes’s to that,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Truthfully,” he
said. “Pictured it being you. That’s the only way I could,” Angel said. He
pulled her towards him and kissed her again. “Can we just go home,” Angel
asked. He gave her a quick kiss, then they headed home. Angel volunteered to
take Goldie out. “Already done. Andy came by and said he’d take her for us,”
Mark said. They headed inside and Angel headed for the shower. She slipped
her dress off, as Mark came up behind her. “You know how hot that made me,”
he asked. His hand slid down the front of her g-string, feeling her. “Seeing the
way she did what she did. Knowing you were picturing it being me,” he said
unclipping her g-string. She could feel how horny he was. He leaned her
against the counter. “I don’t know how you get me like this,” he said. Angel
hopped onto the counter facing him. He pulled her to him. He kissed her hard.
She got up and headed into the shower. He followed. The water beaded against
her skin. The heat from his breath was heavy on her neck. His hands slid
around her caressing her breasts. His lips caressed her shoulder. The warm
water felt good on her skin. His hand slid down her body, caressing each curve.
She went to grab her shampoo and bent over as he came up behind her. Her
hands went down to the bench in their shower to hold herself up as he leaned
against her. They had sex in the shower. Not a word was said. It was different
than before. Like he had to prove something. After, they stood in the shower in
each other’s arms as the hot water hit their warm skin. They headed to bed as he
wrapped his arms around her and curled up to her. “Thank you for tonight,” he
said. She was still quiet.
The next morning, Mark woke up and Angel wasn’t in bed. He went down the
steps and found a note from her.
Went for a walk with Goldie. Be back around 9 or 9:30.
It was almost 10. Mark made some coffee and brought out two mugs, setting
them on the table outside, then read his paper. Around 10:30 Angel came up
from the beach. “How was your walk,” he asked. “Not bad. We went down to
the cove and back. It’s one heck of a walk when people are on the beach,” Angel
said. She sat down with him and poured them a coffee. “What time did you get
up,” she asked. “Around 10ish. Was wondering where you disappeared to,” he
said. He wrapped his arm around Angel. “Missed me did you,” she asked. He
kissed her as she leaned into his lap. “Definitely,” he replied. “Good,” Angel
said getting up and heading inside. “What do you mean good,” Mark asked
following her inside. “Good. Meaning good you missed me,” Angel said cutting
herself a grapefruit. “Why is that good,” he asked sitting by the counter. “So
you know what you have. You know that if you screw it up, you will lose it. As
I said….Good,” Angel said sitting down to have her breakfast. “Why are you so

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worried that something is going to happen to us,” Mark asked. “I’m not. I want
to make sure that nothing does is all. After this past week, I was worried. I want
to be proven wrong. Everything was fine when it was just you and me. Now it’s
you, me and that bar,” Angel said. “Okay. I am not losing you over some stupid
club. It’s a once in a blue moon thing. We aren’t into it together, then we don’t,”
he said. “Good,” Angel said.
“You know sometimes I just don’t get you,” he said. “Why? Because I am trying
to hold onto you with both hands Mark? Because I want this to work so badly
that I am willing to do things that would ordinarily make me feel insecure and
uncomfortable? Last night was a one-time thing. It won’t be happening again,”
Angel said. He kissed her to quiet her. “Stop okay. I know that already. I
promise. I won’t bug you to go back,” he said. “No kidding you won’t,” Angel
said. She went to get up and he held her tighter. “Let go.” He kissed her hard,
pulling her into his lap on the sofa. “I love that you don’t want to ever let go of
me. I love that you are willing to let me do things that make you uncomfortable.
I love that you love me. I love you more than you think,” Mark said. “I just
don’t want to share you. I shouldn’t have to. You are my husband. I couldn’t
get the image of you and Crystal out of my mind,” Angel said. He kissed her
hard flipping her onto the sofa. “Think about it. You are the one that makes me
hot. You. Watching you, being with you, kissing you. See the trend. You are
the one. You and only you,” he said kissing her. “But,” Angel said. He kissed
her again to quiet her. “You are my wife. My sweetheart. The one that I want to
be with forever. Don’t ever forget that,” Mark said kissing her again. He slid her
track suit from her and made love to her on the sofa.
“So where did you disappear to this morning,” Crystal asked as she sat down to
coffee with Chase. “Went for a jog along the beach. Figured since it is our last
morning here, I should enjoy it while I can,” Chase said. “So what’s our plan for
today,” Crystal asked. “We have to be at the airport around 2, so whatever we
want until then,” Chase said. “Well then,” she replied. “Well what,” Chase said
finishing his coffee. “Chase,” she said as he turned to face her. He noticed that
she’d slipped on the lingerie she’d bought the night before. He got up, walked
towards her and kissed her. “Since it’s only 10,” Crystal said. He picked her up
as she wrapped her legs around him and carried her to bed.
“What time is it,” Angel asked as Mark kissed her warm skin. “Does it matter,”
he asked. “Seriously,” Angel asked. “12:30. Why do you ask,” he said. Angel
was expecting a call. “Just wondering is all. I don’t want to spend such a
beautiful day inside,” Angel said. “Oh really,” Mark teased. “Okay. Not what I
was meaning,” Angel said as he kissed her collarbone. “No intention of letting
you out of my sight today,” Mark said. He kissed her again. “But Mark,” Angel
said. “I see I am going to have to talk you into it,” he said flipping her over his
shoulder, carrying her to their bedroom. “Mark seriously. Put me down,” Angel

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said. He carried her up the steps, locking the bedroom door behind them. He
laid her onto the bed. “Enough already,” Angel said. He kissed her hard,
pinning her to the bed. “Never,” he replied. “Told you that I would be with you
even if I had to remind you every minute,” he said kissing his way down her
torso. She leaned back closing her eyes. “Seriously. We……….we can’t………
we can’t stay in bed………..all day,” Angel said as he teased her. “Oh yes we
can,” Mark said kissing her way from her inner thigh to her hip, to her stomach.
“Mark. Seriously. We have to get out and do something today,” Angel said.
“Oh I intend to,” he said kissing her. “Other than this,” she replied. “For now,
you are mine,” he said as she wrapped her legs around him.
“What time is it,” Chase said as he jerked out of bed. “It’s 12:30,” Crystal said.
“Why don’t we check out and go for one last walk on the beach,” Chase said.
“Okay,” Crystal replied as they got up and threw on their jeans and t-shirts.
They checked out and headed for the beach. “This was a great idea sweetheart,”
Crystal said. He knew his real reason. He had to see her one last time. That
morning was just an excuse.
They met as promised at 7AM. They were both eager to see each other. The
minute Chase saw her walking down the beach, he started walking towards her.
“I have to be home by 9:30,” Angel said. He kissed her and they walked to the
cove. “Found another spot,” he said as they headed for the rocks. It was
sheltered. He’d laid a beach towel on the sand and brought breakfast. “Really, I
can’t stay that long,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “Chase. You know this
was wrong. The whole thing was wrong,” Angel said. “Remember one thing.
They were the ones that suggested it in the first place. They were the ones that
suggested it. It was in our minds, but they brought it out,” Chase said. “Then
why is my heart racing,” Angel asked. He picked her up in his arms as she
wrapped her legs around him. “I am definitely going to miss this,” Chase said.
He laid her onto the towel. “You know we shouldn’t. Really. In the bar is
different. We can’t do this like this,” Angel said. “Do what? I wanted to hold
you in my arms. I wanted to feel your skin against mine. What is so wrong,” he
said as he pulled her close and kissed her. He kissed every inch of her skin. “I
am going to miss you so much. You don’t even know,” Chase said. “We’ll come
visit Chase. But we can’t do this anymore. No more. Please,” Angel said as she
slipped her tank top back on. “I can’t explain it,” he said. “Can’t explain what,”
Angel asked. “How I can love her with every ounce of my heart and soul and
want you so badly,” Chase said. “Go. Go back to the hotel Chase. Just let me go
on with my life. Let me be happy okay? Please,” Angel said. She got up and
slipped her runners back on. He kissed her one last time. “Give me a date so I
can look forward to it,” he said. “No. I will let you know when it happens.
Please,” Angel said. She grabbed Goldie and started to walk back. She got half
way back and sat down on the beach. “If only he knew. If only he really valued

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having me. Why the hell can my friend figure this out but my husband, who
should be my best friend can’t,” Angel said silently hoping to get an answer. She
walked home quietly as Chase tried to devise a plan to see her.
“Mark. No more. Come on. We have to get up and do something,” Angel said.
He looked at her with a grin. “Stop. I am getting my bikini on and going
outside,” Angel said trying to figure out a way of finding out if they’d left. She
slipped her bikini on and headed outside. She sat down on her chair. She
looked down towards the water and noticed something in the gazebo. It was the
swing she’d wanted. Somewhere for them both to relax together. She grabbed
her writing book and walked towards it. When Mark came outside he knew
exactly where she was. The swing was finished. He’d put it all together and he
knew she would be surprised. He walked out towards it with Champagne for
them. “Surprise,” Mark said kissing her lips. “How did you do this without me
knowing,” Angel asked. “Full of surprises right,” he said. He handed her a glass
of Champagne. He sat down with her and she curled up in his arms. “See what
I meant. It’s such a beautiful day,” Angel said. “Oh I definitely know, he said
pulling her into his lap. “You know you are an animal,” Angel said. “One sec,”
he said. “What,” Angel asked. He kissed her breasts then her neck. “Missed a
spot earlier,” he said. Angel sipped her Champagne. “You know this swing
could be fun,” he said.
“Hey there,” a voice said. Angel turned. It was Chase and Crystal. “Well hello
there strangers,” Mark said. Angel’s heart jumped. “Thought we’d go for a walk
and come say goodbye before we headed to the airport,” Crystal said as Mark
and Angel got up and hugged them goodbye. “Can I talk to you for a quick sec
Angel,” Chase asked. She kissed Mark and headed to the water’s edge with
Chase. “What the hell are you doing here? I thought you were going,” Angel
said. “I had to see you. Please promise me. In the next few months,” he said.
“Get on the plane Chase. Go back to your normal life. Let me go back to mine,”
Angel said. He handed her a note and she slipped it into her pocket. They
headed back up to Mark and Crystal. “So let us know when you decide to come
for a visit. The kids would love to see you Angel,” Crystal said. “We’ll see.
Considering how busy work is closer to the holidays, I can’t say. We will
definitely call you and let you know though,” Angel said. Mark wrapped his
arm around her. “Join us for a champagne toast then,” Mark said grabbing two
more glasses. “To friends, who feel like family,” he said. “Cheers,” everyone
replied. “Seriously, we have to get back and get to the airport. Talk to you two
soon,” Crystal said as they headed off down the beach. “Had a feeling they were
coming,” Mark asked. “No. It is a perfect day outside Mark. We should be
enjoying the day out here,” Angel said sitting back down on her swing. “Now
where were we anyway,” Mark asked sitting beside her. “You were being super
crazy out here, and I was fighting you off as usual,” Angel said slipping the note

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from her pocket to under the cushion. He leaned over and into her lap. “Nope.
I was right about here,” he said slipping her bikini top off. “Mark,” Angel said.
He licked and teased her breasts, then slowly moved down unbuttoning her jean
shorts. “Would you. I am trying to read,” Angel said. He licked her hip. “Not
out here Mark,” Angel said. He ignored her sliding his hand under her bikini.
“Shit Mark,” Angel said as her breathing deepened. “Come to Daddy baby,” he
said. He kept going and going until she gave in. “Stop,” Angel said. He pulled
her leg towards him and wrapped her legs around him. He undid his jeans and
they had sex on the swing. “You are just never satisfied are you,” Angel said in
his arms. “Never get enough of a good thing,” Mark said. He kissed her hard
and leaned her back onto the swing. He teased her and made her beg him to
stop. By the time they headed back in, they both needed a deserved nap on the
sofa.
Angel headed up to her bathtub and slipped in her bubble bath. She lit some
candles and turned on her favorite CD. When she came back in, he followed her.
“Thought you might like a back rub while you are in there,” Mark said. “Just
going to relax. Nothing else,” Angel said. “Okay,” he replied as they hopped
into the bathtub and relaxed. “One more day and I am back at work,” Angel
said. “Don’t remind me,” Mark said wrapping his arms around her. “We knew I
would have to go back sometime Mark,” Angel said. “You know you don’t have
to,” he said. “I know, but I want to. I really love my job,” Angel said. “So long
as there are no more incidents with James,” Mark said. “There won’t be. I think
he’s got the picture,” Angel said. “I guess we’ll have to make the best of
tomorrow then,” Mark said. “What were you thinking,” Angel asked. “Hmmm.
I wonder,” he said as his hands slid down to her breasts. “Why don’t we go
horseback riding,” Angel said. “I definitely know something you can ride, but
yeah. Sounds good,” he said. “You are just always in the mood aren’t you,”
Angel said. “For you, definitely,” he said.
That night, Angel fell asleep in his arms with Goldie at her feet. This was
definitely the life for her. There was no pressure, no stress. No worries for the
most part. At 12:30 the phone rang. Angel, half asleep, grabbed it before it woke
Mark up. “Thank god you answered,” Chase said. Angel slipped out of bed and
went to the stairway. “What’s wrong Chase,” Angel asked. “Nothing. I just
wish I were still there,” Chase said. “You can’t do this. Stop. You are married to
a beautiful woman Chase. This has to stop,” Angel said. “I owe you two,” he
said. “Why? What happened,” Angel asked. “We talked on the way home. You
were right. She didn’t think I was happy and was trying to put on a good face,”
Chase said. “Did you tell her that you love her? That everything was good and
that you could never live without her,” Angel asked. “She knows. She’s just
changed a lot on the way home. I think we’re finally going to work. That is if I
can get the vision of the two of us out of my mind,” Chase said. “Stop. You are

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not doing this now,” Angel said. “I just keep picturing what would have
happened in the cove if you hadn’t left,” Chase said. “Stop,” Angel said. “How
good you would have felt. How good it would have been. The…” “Stop it.
Remember why I walked away. She loves you so much she was willing to do
almost anything to hold onto you. Remember,” Angel said. “How good it felt
when we were in the club,” Chase said. “Stop. Are you listening? Stop,” Angel
said. “The feeling when you were just about to…” Angel hung up. She took a
deep breath and went back to bed with Mark. “Everything good,” Mark asked
pulling her close to him. “Chase called to say thank you for a great week is all,”
Angel said. “Kind of late their time isn’t it,” Mark asked. “He just finished
work,” Angel replied. She could feel Mark against her backside. He wasn’t
about to ignore it and go to sleep.
He wrapped his arms around her. “I know he still wants you,” Mark said. “He’s
just nervous about him and Crystal,” Angel said. “How could he not want it,”
Mark said as they started to have sex. “He’s kicking himself for not getting one
last taste,” Mark said. Somehow the thought of Chase wanting Angel was
turning Mark on. “He’s thinking how bad he wants you right now isn’t he,”
Mark said. Somehow his reactions were rubbing off on Angel. “Thinking how
he would like to have caught you and screwed you over and over again. How he
would have stayed in that back room with you and screwed you as long as you
wanted him to,” Mark said. Angel got quiet. She didn’t think he had seen the
first time. “How he wanted you to….” “How he wishes he was you. How he
wishes I would be in his bed every night and screw him every night,” Angel said
trying to get Mark to see what she did. “Knowing that it’s mine and not his,”
Mark said. He pulled her close and she could feel his muscles tense. “How I
want you every minute of the day,” Angel said. He got quiet. She was
beginning to understand why he went to those bars. Somehow his spirit had
intoxicated her. “So this is why,” she thought to herself. “One thing I do know.
I am one hell of a lucky guy to have you in my life and my bed,” Mark said. “So
true,” Angel said. He kissed her shoulder. He hopped out of bed and came back
with an ice water. He slid into bed beside her. “I was right wasn’t I,” Mark
asked. “About,” Angel asked. “That’s why he called wasn’t it,” Mark said.
“Sort of,” Angel said. “Reminded him that we were married. That it wasn’t
right for him to call,” Angel said. “Next time, speakerphone,” Mark said kissing
her neck. “But,” she said turning to face him. “I wanna hear the phone call. I
want to hear him beg for you,” Mark said. He pulled Angel close and kissed her.
She was confused, but curled up with him and went to sleep. “Now I get it,”
Angel said to herself as she closed her eyes.
The next morning, she woke up pinned to the bed. “Well good morning to
you…..too,” Angel said as she felt Mark’s hot breath against her. He licked and
teased and prodded her until he felt her muscles tense. He kissed from her

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stomach to her lips. “Good morning,” he said passionately kissing her. “And
what a way to wake…up,” Angel said as he started to make love to her. “You
looked so sexy last night. I could barely restrain myself,” Mark said. He kissed
her hard again pinning her arms down so she was at his mercy. The day
continued on as it started. They did take a break for horseback riding, and
sitting outside a while, but he was determined to make the day perfect.
That night, they curled up in bed together. She read her book, and he read over
her shoulder. “I still don’t know how you can read that and not be in the mood,”
Mark said. “That’s only the beginning of the story baby. It gets better,” Angel
said. She turned the page and felt his warm hand against her side. “Can we play
hookie tomorrow,” Mark whispered in her ear. “I can just imagine how much
work I have on my desk by now. I don’t think I can,” Angel said. “Guess I will
have to come take you for lunch then,” Mark said. “If I can. Really, I don’t know
how busy I am going to be,” Angel said. “Well then, I guess I will have to
remind you what you are missing,” Mark said. Her phone rang again. She
looked at the caller. “Oh god no,” Angel said quietly to herself. “Answer it.
Remember…speaker,” Mark said kissing her shoulder. She answered it. “Hi
Chase,” she said.
“This feels so crazy. When are you two coming up here,” Chase asked. “I don’t
know Chase. I have already used two weeks of my vacation,” Angel said. Mark
pressed speaker. “Please. When are you coming. Please tell me soon,” Chase
asked. “A month or two at least,” Angel said as she felt Mark reacting to the
desperation in Chase’s voice. “I may have to take another trip down there. I
can’t wait that long,” he said. Mark started to make love to Angel. “I can’t wait
that long to be with you again. It’s like a drug.” Mark pulled her close to him.
“I can’t stop thinking about you,” he said. “You’re going to have to. Chase, it’s
not fair to her,” Angel said. “Speakerphone,” he asked. “My hand was falling
asleep,” Angel said as Mark slid his hand down her torso. “Why wouldn’t you
let me be with you that one last time before I left,” he asked. “I already told you
Chase. Be fair to her,” Angel said. “But it would have been so good,” he said.
“Stop Chase,” Angel said. “It would have been better than at the club. I could
have had you all to myself for hours. The things I could have done,” Chase said.
Mark was in full swing. “Just the feel of your skin on mine.” Mark finished still
gripping Angel to him. “Go home. Tell your wife how much you want it. Tell
her how you want her Chase. I can’t do this. Not anymore,” Angel said hanging
up. Mark kissed her hard. “And you are all mine,” he said.

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Chapter 16
The next morning, Angel got up before Mark, took Goldie out and started getting
ready for work. She snuck upstairs to get dressed and Mark woke up. “Where
are you going,” he asked. “Getting ready for work. Goldie had her walk, and
breakfast is downstairs. Coffee is on if you want some,” she said pulling her
skirt on. “Come here for one sec,” he asked. “Not going to be late Mark. I have
to get dressed,” she said. He grabbed her hand and pulled her to him. He kissed
her and slid his hand up her skirt. “Seriously, I can’t be late,” Angel said. “I
think they’d forgive you this one time,” Mark said sliding his fingers under her
g-string. “Seriously Mark. I……can’t…….be…..late,” Angel said as his fingers
danced across her teasing her. He slid a finger inside her. “You don’t have to be
there for an hour. Come to bed,” he asked. He kissed her breasts and teased her.
“I’ll drive you in,” he said. “We have……to go…….now then,” she said. His
hand grazed her inner thigh. “Seriously,” Angel said. “I have an idea then,” he
said. He pulled on his jeans and his t-shirt. She finished getting dressed and
headed downstairs. She grabbed her purse and they headed out the door.
“Now what was this brilliant idea,” Angel asked as they pulled out of the
driveway. He took her hand placing it in his lap. “In traffic,” Angel said. He
kissed her at the light. She gave into his suggestion. He slid her hand down his
jeans. “You know I can’t believe I am doing this,” she whispered in his ear.
“Oooh,” he said as she licked him. She kept going and going until they were
almost to her work. “Pull in here for a minute,” Angel said. He pulled to the
back of the parking lot. “What,” he said. Angel climbed into his lap. “You’re
worse than me you know,” Mark said. She kissed him and had sex with him
before she got to the office. “Damn,” he said as she slid back over to her seat and
fixed her makeup. She had a smirk on her face. He reached over and kissed her
hard. “I have so got to drive you in more often,” Mark said. “I have 14 minutes
to get to the office,” Angel said. Mark pulled out of the parking lot and headed
directly to her office. “See you at lunch,” Mark said as Angel hopped out of the
car. She kissed him goodbye and headed inside.
“Well the new bride is back,” Raven said as she followed Angel to her office.
They’d already changed the name on the door to her new name. “Nice to see
you too Raven,” Angel said. Alicia and Aubrey came in as soon as they saw her
light on. “Well hello Mrs. Scott,” they said. “You guys are so silly. I wasn’t gone
that long,” Angel said. “So where did you two go on your honeymoon,” they
asked. “We stayed home,” Angel said. “I figured you two would have been
traveling,” Raven said with a giggle. “Cut it out. We hung out with Chase and
Crystal,” Angel said. “So how is married life,” Aubrey asked. “Definitely
different,” Angel said. “You three should try it. So how are the guys?” “Change
of topic. Nice. Andy is good. Really good actually,” Aubrey said. They all

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giggled. “TMI Aubrey,” Angel said. “You know I still can’t believe that the
setups you did all worked out. Anthony and I are having a blast,” Alicia said.
“And Rodney…..damn. Rodney is one hell of a…” Raven said. “I have some
news too,” Aubrey said. “What’s that? Wedding bells? We contagious,” Angel
asked. “We’re moving in together,” Aubrey said. “Definitely makes sense since
you are never ever home and always out with him,” Raven said. “Am not,”
Aubrey teased. “I think since Mark got married, they all decided it was okay to
not be bachelors anymore,” Alicia said. “Nice to know we are a good influence,”
Angel replied. “So what you two up to this weekend? We getting a girls night
out from you yet,” Raven asked. “I don’t see why not. We can go out for a few
drinks and go dancing,” Angel said. “Should I make a reservation,” Raven
asked. “I’ll let you know closer to the weekend,” Angel said. “So no sign of
psycho eh,” Aubrey asked. “Not for a while. I think he may still be in jail,”
Angel said. “You seem so different now that you are hitched,” Alicia said.
“Happy. Definitely happy,” Angel said. They all headed off to their desks.
Angel’s phone rang. She noticed the caller ID and closed the door, pulling the
blind. “Chase, you can’t be calling me here,” Angel said.
“I apologize for last night,” he said. “You should be making calls like that to her.
Not me,” Angel said. “But still. Would you be mad if I told you I was coming
down before Halloween,” he asked. “Chase. You know we can’t do this. We are
friends who got carried away at that bar. That’s all,” Angel said. “Just one last
time. Please. Tell him you are going away for the night with your girlfriends.
Meet me. Please,” he said. “I can’t lie to him Chase. I won’t,” Angel said. Then
take off work that day. Play hookie,” he said. “Chase. Stop this,” Angel said. “I
can’t help it. Something was so different about it that I can’t get my mind off it,”
Chase said. “It was because they were there Chase. They saw what happened at
the bar. That’s the whole freakin point,” Angel said. “But they didn’t see us at
the cave. On the beach. The feel of your skin against mine. The…” Angel cut
him off. “Stop. I am at work Chase,” Angel said. “I’ll call you tonight. No
speakerphone okay,” he said. “Chase,” Angel said. She heard the phone click.
Her only solution. She’d have to turn it off.
By the time lunch came, Angel had almost got her desk cleared of work.
“Welcome back,” her boss said coming in. “Thank you,” Angel said. “How was
the honeymoon,” she asked. “It was great. And a surprise wedding and all. It
really was great,” Angel said. “He called me and told me about his idea. I had
to go along with it. I am a sucker for romance you know,” she said. “I think we
all are,” Angel said. “So how was your first morning back,” she asked. “Got a
lot done. I was almost dreading coming back to the mounds of work I knew
would be on my desk,” Angel said. “You were so far ahead before you left
anyway, there wasn’t much,” she replied. “I try. It is best to keep on top of these
things,” Angel said. “So, I have a proposition for you,” she said. “What’s that,”

133. 2
Angel asked. “We have decided to make some of the positions here external
office positions. It would entail coming in one day a week and working from
home the rest. What do you think,” she asked. “Sounds like a few people might
be leaving the office,” Angel said. “We decided that for yours, coming in 2 or 3
days a week and the rest from home would be good. What do you think,” she
asked. “Sure. I assume this would mean that I would have a laptop,” Angel
said. “Definitely. We just hired your husband as our outsource computer tech.
It’s perfect,” she said. “When did that happen,” Angel asked. “We were talking
about it when he called to ask about you taking time off,” she said. “I see.
Funny. He never told me about that idea,” Angel said. “We hadn’t really made
a decision about it until Friday. We called him this morning to tell him,” she
said. “That’s great. I guess I will have to break it to the girls though,” Angel
said. “They are probably going to be on the same schedule as you. In three, out
two,” she said. “This would be starting when,” Angel asked. “Tomorrow,” she
replied. “So let’s say, Monday and Wednesday I am in. Tuesday, Thursday and
Friday I am out,” Angel asked. “Half day Friday. What do you think,” she said.
“Sounds great,” Angel said.
Mark showed up for lunch at around 1. He came in and headed directly to
Angel’s office. She wasn’t there. “She went to have lunch outside with Raven
and the girls,” her assistant said. Mark headed outside and found Angel. “Well
hello Mr. Scott,” Raven said. “Hey yourself,” Mark said sitting down beside
Angel. “How are you Mark,” Aubrey and Alicia said. “Not too bad,” he replied.
Angel said nothing. He kissed her neck. “So, as I was saying. Monday,
Wednesday and Friday morning. Guess we’ll have to actually use those damn
day-timers,” Angel said. They laughed. “And I assume for weekend plans, we
should check with Mark right,” Raven said. “I guess so. “We are all going out
Saturday night for a girls night. That good with you,” Angel said leaning back
into him. “Depends,” he asked. “On,” she replied. “Are the guys going to be
allowed to come out for a guys night,” Chase asked. “Why not,” Raven said.
“Then cool with me,” Mark said. “I’m going to head inside. See you ladies
later,” Angel said. “Bye Mark,” they said. Mark waved goodbye.
Angel came into the office and closed her office door. “Anything you forgot to
mention to me that I should know about Mark,” Angel asked. “She just let me
know this morning. We put in a proposal months ago. It just got accepted,”
Mark said. “And what would have happened if we hadn’t been together when
you got it Mark. Not a good idea,” Angel said. “Well, it didn’t turn out that
way,” Mark said. “And now she expects me to work from freaking home,”
Angel said. “What do you mean,” he said. “Work 2 and a half days from home
and the rest here. What a stupid idea,” Angel said. Mark kissed her. “Why is
that a bad idea,” he asked. “Don’t even Mark. I would actually have to work
during business hours. Probably ten times more swamped than I am now,”

134. 2
Angel said. “But you can work from the patio. It actually does sound better than
coming in every morning,” Mark said. “I guess so. Was just a big deal. Why
wouldn’t they have said something before I went on my vacation,” Angel said.
He kissed her again. “I’m sorry for not telling you about the contract,” Mark
said. “Was a big deal. I just wished I could have shared in the celebration,”
Angel said. There was a knock at her door. “Mrs. Scott, there is a call for you on
line 2. I think her name is Crystal,” her assistant said. “One sec,” Angel said. He
kissed her again and she answered.
“Hi Crystal,” Angel said. “I just wanted to call and say thanks again for last
week. I really think it helped Chase and I,” she said. “I’m glad you came down
too. Was fun hanging out together,” Angel said. “Definitely. So, I meant to ask.
When did you two decide to head up here for a visit,” Crystal asked. “Probably
closer to Christmas or so. Just makes sense,” Angel said. “I will have something
to look forward to then,” she replied. “You sound like something is wrong.
What’s up Crystal,” Angel asked. “Things have changed so much since we got
back. Everything is great. I just wonder,” she said. “Wonder what,” Angel
asked. “If what we did in California is going to become a regular thing here,”
Crystal said. “It’s up to the two of you. If you enjoy it, then yes. If you don’t,
then no,” Angel said. “I don’t know how to say it to him though. Can you talk
to him for me,” Crystal asked. “Just go out for dinner just the two of you and
talk about it. I don’t feel right about asking him for you,” Angel said. “Do you
think he might try a bar like that here,” Crystal asked. “Never hurts to ask. If
you need any help, give me or Mark a shout,” Angel said. “I will. Thanks
again,” she replied and hung up. “You’ve created a monster you know,” Angel
said. Mark leaned down and kissed her hard, leaning her back in her chair.
She stood up leaning against the desk. He slowly unbuttoned her shirt, kissing
her breasts. She sat up on the desk and unbuttoned his. He kissed her hard
again. Angel reached over and locked the door. He wrapped her legs around
him. She reached for his belt and his phone rang. He answered it as she
continued to undo his dress pants. “What the hell do you mean,” Mark said.
“No kidding. That’s good then.” Angel pushed him into the chair. “I’ll call….I’ll
call you……when I get back……to the office,” Mark said hanging up and
dropping the phone. He bent her over the desk and finished what she’d started.
“Damn,” he said. He sat back in the chair. “What you had in mind this
morning,” Angel asked. “Don’t even get me started,” he said. “Already did,”
Angel teased. He pulled her into his arms. She buttoned her blouse back up. He
kissed her again. “So, I should be done here by 4,” Angel said. “Ooh. Early day.
Me likey,” Mark said. “So what did you feel like doing for dinner,” Angel asked.
He looked in her eyes as he tidied himself up. “Okay. Food. Eating? What do
you want to do for dinner,” Angel asked. “I’ll think of something,” he said.
“Okay,” Angel said. He kissed her again and headed back to work.

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That night, they headed home and made dinner together. It was nice and quiet.
They sat outside and enjoyed the sunset then headed inside to bed around 11.
Angel forgot to turn off the phone. She heard it ring in the distance. “That your
phone,” Mark asked. “Probably,” Angel said as she kissed him. “Aren’t you
going to get it,” Mark asked. “It can wait,” she replied. He grabbed it from her
purse and answered it. “Hey Chase. Yeah. She’s right here,” he said handing
the phone to Angel and pressing speaker. She started walking up the steps to
their bedroom. “I thought you would never answer,” he said. “Really Chase. Is
this necessary,” Angel asked as Mark slid her g-string off. “She wants to do this
with other people. God I can’t even imagine it,” he said. “Stop Chase. Maybe
it’s a good idea. Would definitely cut back on your long distance,” Angel said.
“Told her I was taking the dog for a walk,” he said. “Which dog is the question,”
Angel said. Mark leaned her into the wall. “I swear to god when she suggested
it, all I could see was you and me. God, if only I could relive that night at the
bar. It had to be the best…” Angel cut him off. “Chase. We already talked about
this,” Angel said. “But you felt so good. I could have kept going and going. The
feel of your body when you came. Then when you came again and again,” he
said. Both Angel and Mark were close at that exact second. “The taste of you.
How do I forget that,” Chase asked. “Shit Mark,” Angel said. “I can’t go back in
there. Not like this,” Chase said. “Tell her you want her Chase. Go be with her.
Do what you did to me to her,” Angel said. Mark carried her to the bed and laid
her down with his face in her lap. “She would never,” Chase said. “Shit. Chase
I really can’t talk right now. I will have to talk to you later,” Angel said hanging
up and throwing the phone onto the carpet. “Shit,” Angel said as her breathing
sped up. Mark kept going. “Tell me you want me,” he said. “Mark,” Angel
said. “Tell me it’s mine,” he said. “It’s yours baby,” Angel said. “Tell me I can
do whatever I please,” he said. “Mark,” Angel said. “Tell me I can do whatever
I want to you,” he said. “Oh shit,” Angel said. He flipped her on her back and
had sex with her. Their breathing slowed, and he was still close to her. She
didn’t dare move an inch. “Tell me I can do whatever I want to you,” he
whispered. “You know you can,” Angel said. “I knew. I knew he wanted you
and he wouldn’t be able to walk away. I knew,” Mark said. “And I want you.
Only you,” Angel said.
The next morning, Angel woke up to her first day working from home. Mark
had set her laptop up for her at his desk with him. She came downstairs and
noticed. She tiptoed into the kitchen and kissed his neck. “Good morning
handsome,” Angel said. “Good morning yourself sexy,” he said kissing her. So
we are both working from home,” Angel asked. “Could be an interesting day,”
Mark said. “I wonder how much work we will actually get done,” Angel said
putting on the hot water for some tea. “Can I ask you something,” Mark asked.
“Okay,” Angel said. “Do we want kids,” Mark asked. “Sure,” Angel replied.

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“Do you think we should be trying,” Mark asked. “If we do, we can’t go to that
bar. Not pregnant,” Angel said. “Good point,” Mark said. “But we could try if
we want. It is a little soon to be having a baby though,” Angel said. “And just
when would we start to try,” Mark asked. “I’ll make an appointment with my
doctor and see what she says,” Angel said. “Care to practice,” he asked.
That afternoon, they headed to Angel’s doctor. “Before we get started, why
don’t we do blood tests to check you two out. It’s a normal beginning to this,”
she said. They did the blood tests. Angel had already asked her to test them for
everything before they got started. “Normally takes a while to get pregnant. If
you want to really work at it, then monitor your temperature. If it goes up one
full degree, as it should mid month, then go ahead,” she said. “Thanks for the
advice,” Mark said. “I’ll have your results tomorrow. I’ll give you a call if
anything comes up,” she said. “Thanks,” Angel said as they headed home.
“So,” Mark said. “Happy,” Angel asked. “Very. It’s actually kind of exciting
isn’t it,” Mark asked. “Looking forward to the practicing,” Angel said. Mark
kissed her hand. “Was wondering why we hadn’t got pregnant yet,” Mark said.
“Always prepared. What can I say,” Angel said. “I see,” Mark said. “So we can
get rid of that now right,” he said. “Sure,” Angel replied. They pulled into their
driveway and found a box on the front steps. “What the hell,” Mark said. He
parked and they headed for the door. Mark didn’t touch it, but checked out the
return address. “Why the hell would they leave this on the front step. Damn.
This is expensive. What would happen if someone stole it,” Mark said grabbing
the box and heading inside. “So, what’s in the box,” Angel asked. “Open,” Mark
said. She opened it and found a video camera. “Now what might you have
bought this for,” Angel asked. “A few different reasons,” he replied. “One, I
already know,” Angel said. “I want to be able to tape the parties and stuff. If we
have a baby, I want to be able to have videos,” he said. “But the main reason,”
Angel said. “To tape you and Chase. To play it back,” Mark said. “You know it
isn’t going to happen Mark. I don’t want to be with him. I want to be with you,”
Angel said. “I know, but if you two hook up again,” he said. “You are just
fixated on that aren’t you. There probably won’t be a next time. Really,” Angel
said heading upstairs. “Why not? The whole point was having fun right? Were
we not having fun,” Mark asked. “Just stop. We aren’t discussing this,” Angel
said. She went into the bathroom and hopped into a hot shower. She shook her
head in disbelief. When she stepped out, he was sitting on the counter. “What,”
Angel said. “No next time,” Mark said. “You are my husband. I want to be with
you. Give it a rest. We probably won’t see them until close to Christmas
anyway,” Angel said. “Well, who knows who,” Mark said. Angel cut him off.
“Don’t start. Enough,” Angel said wrapping her towel around her.
She went into the bedroom and slipped her bikini on with her workout shorts.
“Where are you going,” he asked. “Going for a walk,” Angel said. She went

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downstairs and checked her mail. Nothing of importance. What little work she
had could wait. She grabbed her ipod, cell phone and she left with Goldie.
She got down to the cove and sat down. She looked into the sort of cave that
they’d found and thought back to what Chase had said. Maybe Chase really was
right. Maybe they should have been together. Maybe her and Mark were a
mistake. Then she thought again. They were actually thinking about having a
baby. How could she bring a little baby into a life like this? She had to think
some more. She really did love Mark. It made more and more sense to her why
he had chosen this lifestyle. Why wasn’t her question. Her question was when
does it stop? When does he take a break and be a family? What do they do
when a baby is added to the mix? She relaxed for a little while and played with
Goldie, then headed back. When she got to the house, Andy was there with
Aubrey. “What’s wrong people. What you two doing here,” Angel said giving
them a hug. Andy moved and she saw Mark. “Oh my god. What the hell
happened,” Angel asked. She grabbed some more ice. “Baby. Who would have
done this to you,” Angel said. “Lexie’s dad was here,” Andy said. “What the
hell,” Angel said. “He said Mark was supposed to protect her. She died of an
overdose. He blames Mark,” Andy said. “Why would he do that? Doesn’t he
know that they haven’t been together in months,” Angel asked. Everyone was
quiet. “Mark, what’s going on,” Angel said. “She was here last week. When
you were on one of your walks. She begged me for another chance and I told her
we had got married,” Mark said. “Why didn’t you tell me,” Angel asked. “She
left after I told her. She asked if I still wanted to be with her,” he said. “And
your answer,” Angel asked. He was oddly quiet. “Well,” Angel asked. He was
still quiet. Angel went upstairs and grabbed a bag, throwing in clothes for a few
days. “Where are you going,” he asked. “None of your business,” Angel said.
She threw in her shampoo and toiletries, grabbed her passport and zipped it up.
“When you decide to give me an answer, call me,” Angel said. She grabbed her
ipod, cell and laptop and the chargers and walked out to her car. “You don’t
understand,” he said following her. She pulled out of the driveway and headed
for the highway. She called a travel agent. “One round trip to Buffalo,” Angel
said. “Sooner the better.”

138. 2
Chapter 17
The plane touched down at 6. Angel stepped off the plane, grabbed a rental car
and headed for the border. She called Chase. “How are you,” he asked. “On my
way to your place. Not in a good mood,” Angel said. “What happened,” he
asked. “I’ll tell you when I get there,” Angel replied. “See you in a few then,” he
said.
Angel hadn’t called any of her girlfriends at home. She didn’t want to tell them.
Everything was such a mess. Two weeks and already something this major. She
lit a cigarette and made her way to Chase and Crystal’s house.
“What a great surprise,” Crystal said coming outside. “Figured I needed a little
vacation,” Angel said. “You don’t look too happy about it. What’s wrong,”
Crystal asked. “Do you know where Chase is,” Angel asked. “He’s on his way
home from the office,” she replied. The kids came running outside. “Hi Angel,”
they said as they all hugged her. “Hey yourself,” she replied hugging them all.
A few minutes later, Chase pulled into the driveway. The kids ran over to hug
him hello. “Well well. She returns,” Chase said giving Angel a hug hello.
“We’re going to go for a little drive. We’ll be back in a little bit,” Chase said.
“Come on inside guys. Dinner’s ready,” Crystal said kissing Chase.
They headed towards the beach. They needed silence. “What happened,” he
asked. “His ex committed suicide. Her dad took it out on Mark. Supposedly
she was at the house last week and told him that she wanted him back and knew
he wanted her. He didn’t deny it,” Angel said. “Did you ask him how he felt
about her,” Chase asked. “He was silent. Not a damn word,” Angel said. Chase
was quiet. “I am speechless,” he said. They walked on the beach a bit. “I just
don’t get it. He was getting everything he wanted. Why,” Angel asked. They
headed off to a quiet and private area of the beach. He kissed her. “Chase, this
isn’t going to help anything. Really,” Angel said. He kissed her again leaning
her against the tree. “Maybe coming here was a mistake,” Angel said. “No it
wasn’t. Stay a few days until you cool off,” Chase said. “And having me in your
house, one bedroom away from you isn’t going to be a problem,” Angel said.
“Better idea. I checked you into the hotel,” Chase said. “But,” she said. “Under
my name. Was Crystal’s idea actually,” Chase said. “Maybe you are right. I
need alone time to figure this out,” Angel said. Her phone rang. “Hey Raven,”
Angel said. “Where the hell are you? Mark has been looking for you all damn
day,” she said. “Let’s just say he isn’t looking far enough,” Angel said. “Tell me
you didn’t go to see Mr. Hottie without us,” she said. “I just need some time,”
Angel said. “Oh hell no. I am flying up tomorrow. No way are you seeing that
sexy man without a chaperone,” she said. “Stop okay. Just stay there. I’ll be
home by Sunday,” Angel said. “Oh hell no. We are going to come up there. I’ll

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get the girls. Tell them we are going on a trip no guys permitted,” Raven said.
“Then they will definitely tell Mark,” Angel said. “So what. Let him squirm,”
Raven said hanging up. Chase kissed her neck. “Now they are all freakin
coming. Great,” Angel said. He slipped her strap off her shoulder and kissed it.
“Chase, stop okay,” Angel said. She started walking back towards the truck.
“We’ll have dinner, then you can follow me to the hotel,” Chase said. “Fine, but
nothing else okay? I can’t deal with Mark’s crap and this at the same time,”
Angel said.
After dinner, as promised, they headed to the hotel. “I’m going to hang with her
a bit tonight. See if there’s anything I can do,” Chase said. “Okay baby. Wake
me up when you get home,” Crystal said kissing him goodbye. “Everything will
be okay Angel. Feel better,” Crystal said hugging her. Angel hugged the kids
goodbye and headed to the hotel.
She came into the room and immediately saw the breathtaking view. “Know
how you love that view,” Chase said wrapping his arms around her waist as she
looked out at the water. “I just don’t get what the deal is with him and Lexie.
He married me. He said he loved me. He’s shown me in a million ways. She
shows up one day and asks if he still wants to be with her. Why didn’t he just
say no,” Angel said. “I have no idea. If I were him, I would be all over you 24-7.
I couldn’t handle more than you,” Chase said. “Enough. You aren’t getting any
tonight. Go home,” Angel said. He put a bag down on the counter. “What’s
that,” Angel asked. “Some of Crystal’s ‘dickhead remedy’ as she calls it,” Chase
said. Angel looked – two bottles of white zinfandel. Angel laughed. He opened
one and handed her a glass. “I gave him everything he wanted, anytime he
wanted. Why wouldn’t he have told me,” Angel asked. “Maybe he has feelings
for her but he loves you,” Chase said. “Yeah. Okay Chase. Maybe that’s why
you always call me when Crystal gets pissed at you,” Angel said. “Fight fair
girl,” Chase said. He refilled her glass. “It just doesn’t make sense. She was at
the house before and he told her to leave. Why now,” Angel said. “Maybe he
was thinking that it could be fun,” Chase said. “Keep in mind. Trying to think
like him.” “He knows that would never happen Chase. Ever. I just don’t get it.
Why her,” Angel said. She finished glass number two. “You gotta slow down,”
Chase said filling her glass. Within an hour or two, Angel was down a bottle and
a half.
“Am I not good enough? Is that why,” Angel asked. “Trust me. You are more
than enough,” Chase said. He was starting to feel the wine too. “Then why?
Why her,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. She didn’t care anymore. She went
along with it. He slipped her tank top off, kissing her from her neck down. He
slipped her shorts off, dropping them to the floor. “We can’t do this Chase,”
Angel said. He kissed her inner thigh then licked her. “Mmm. I missed this,” he

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said working his way back up. He slid his jeans off, dropping them to the floor
and pulling his shirt off. “We can’t,” Angel said. He slipped on protection. “Yes
we can,” Chase said as he started to have sex with Angel. “God I missed how
good this feels,” Chase said. “Shit Chase,” Angel said as they did it. Something
about it felt right. There were no secrets between them. They’d been friends for
years. After, he kissed her from head to toe again. “I missed this,” Chase said.
“This is the last time Chase. It has to be,” Angel said. “Then we should make it
worth it,” Chase said. “What do you mean by that,” Angel said. He wrapped
his arms around her holding her close to him. “If this is the last time, then we are
definitely going for round two,” he said. “Really,” Angel said. He rolled her
onto her back and his fingers gently caressed her skin. She felt his fingers on her.
Playing with her. Penetrating her. His tongue on her. She was so distracted by
it she’d forgotten all about Mark – at least until the morning. They had sex
again, then he showered, and headed home.
At 6AM, there was a knock at the door. Angel slipped on her shorts and tee and
answered it. “You had me scared to death,” Mark said. “Go home Mark. Go
have fun with someone else,” Angel said trying to slam the door. “You know
damn well that I don’t want her or anyone like her,” he said coming in and
closing the door. He double locked it. “Go home,” Angel said. “No. How could
you even think,” he said. “Do you or don’t you still want her,” Angel said. “She
is an attractive…” “Enough. Yes or no,” Angel said cutting him off. “I am
attracted but..” “Go home. Get out. Leave,” Angel said. “Would I have come all
the way here if I didn’t…” “I guess you don’t understand English,” Angel said.
He kissed her pinning her against the wall. Angel pushed him away and put her
stuff back in her suitcase. “Don’t you walk away. Don’t you dare,” Mark said.
“You made your decision. How’s this. You go screw around with her or
whomever you choose to replace her with, and I will stay here. When you
decide you want to be married again let me know,” Angel said. She grabbed her
bag.
He pulled it out of her hands and dropped it to the floor. “Why do you think I
am here,” he asked. “Already did last week? What can’t find another
replacement? Oh. Well I guess I will just run to you then,” Angel said. He
kissed her again pinning her against the wall. “Stop this. I didn’t say I had sex
with her,” Mark said kissing Angel. “Okay then. She did what? Don’t tell me.
She gave you something and you decided I was better,” Angel said. He pinned
her arms to the wall. “No. You know damn well that answer is no,” he said.
“Then….hmmm…….you decided it was more fun slipping shit in my drinks? Or
maybe you thought I was more fun,” Angel said squirming to get free. “No.
You know the answer is no. I want you,” Mark said. “Well, too late Mark. You
blew it. Guess it’s a new record,” Angel said. He kissed her again and slid her
shorts off. “Don’t even think you are getting some,” Angel said. He pulled her

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legs around him and slid his jeans off. They had sex, then he carried her to the
bed. “How can you even think I would ever leave you for someone else,” Mark
said. “You think this fixes it,” Angel said trying to get up. “You aren’t going
anywhere. Don’t even bother to try,” he said. “Go home,” Angel said. “No.
Not without you,” he said. “How the hell did you find out where I was
anyway,” Angel asked. “Raven told Rodney that she was going away and
would be back Sunday. He asked where. Any other questions,” Mark asked. “I
knew. I knew I shouldn’t have told her,” Angel said. “How can you even think I
would have wanted her back? How could you even think that I don’t want you?
Are you blind,” he asked. “Let me up Mark,” Angel said. “No. Not until you
listen to me,” he said. “She came over and said she wanted to talk to me. That
she missed me. I said that I was married now. That her stupid visits were done.
She asked if she could still be a part of my life. I told her that it wasn’t going to
be possible. That we were together now. I told her that I wasn’t going to be with
her,” Mark said. “Then you had one last fuck,” Angel said. “No. She said she
wanted one last time and I turned her down. We sat outside and talked. She
tried over and over to get me hard and then said she’d take care of it. She sucked
it, but nothing else,” Mark said. Angel tried to squirm and got away. She
grabbed her shorts and tee and her purse and headed for the door. She pulled
her clothes on. She unlocked the door and walked down the hallway for the
elevator. She went out the front door, and got in the rental car. She locked the
doors with tears streaming down her face. He was banging on the window.
“Angel. Please,” he said. She backed up and headed for the highway.
By the time she stopped driving, she was in the city. She pulled into a hotel and
checked in. She called Chase to tell him where she was. “You know he’s called
here a dozen times,” Chase said. “Don’t you dare tell him. I am hanging here
until the girls get here. You working Friday,” Angel asked. “Both Friday and
Saturday,” Chase said. “See you Friday night then,” Angel said. She went and
drew herself a bubble bath in the Jacuzzi bathtub. Tears streamed down her face.
This is the last thing she wanted to be happening right now. Her phone rang
again. It was Mark. Angel pressed ignore.
By the time it got to Friday, Angel was beyond tears. She was moving into the
anger phase. She got some work done and notified her boss that she’d be away
for a few days but doing her work from where she was. “No problem Angel.
Let me know if there’s anything you need here,” she replied. “Thanks,” Angel
replied. Around 4, there was a knock at the door. “It’s us Angel,” Raven said.
Angel answered the door. “It’s about time,” Raven said. “If it weren’t for you,”
Angel said. “Don’t go there. It was Rodney’s fault.” “So what time we heading
down to see Mr. Hottie,” Alicia asked. “I figure we go down for dinner then
head over,” Angel said. “I don’t mean to bring it up, but have you heard from
him,” Aubrey asked. “So anybody want to get their hair or anything done before

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we go? I have a hair appointment at 4:30 downstairs,” Angel said. “Okay. I take
it that’s a yes,” Raven said. They got changed into their dresses for the night and
headed downstairs for their hair appointments. “Holy crap Angel,” Raven said.
“What,” Angel asked. “Damn,” Aubrey said. “What,” Angel asked. “Nice
dress,” Alicia said. “Oh this? I bought it to wear on our honeymoon,” Angel
said. “Damn,” Raven said. They headed in and got their hair done, then headed
down towards the bar for dinner. “I don’t want to hear his name tonight okay,”
Angel said. “Okay,” Alicia said looking at Aubrey.
Alicia knew what was going to happen that night. Mark knew what Chase did
on Friday and Saturday nights. He intended to surprise Angel. He’d done it too
at one point. Raven looked at Alicia. Raven knew the guys were coming up that
night too. Hopefully tonight would be the end of their fight. The girls couldn’t
stand the tension.
They had a nice relaxing dinner, then headed to the bar. Angel walked in and
Chase walked towards her. “I am so glad you are here. You okay,” he asked.
“Fine Chase. Just don’t want to talk about it tonight,” Angel said. She slipped
her jacket off and Chase’s jaw dropped. “Holy shit,” Chase said. “What,” Angel
asked. The other guys walked past her and stopped to say hello. “You guys
remember my friend Angel right,” Chase said. “Holy shit. Long time no see
girl,” they all said giving her a hug. Angel introduced her friends. “Reserved a
table for you up on the right,” Chase said. “Thanks,” Angel said. He hugged her
again and kissed her.
Alicia, Aubrey and Raven were all getting nervous. They knew what was going
to happen at 10. Chase and Angel joked around and teased each other for the
beginning of the night. Angel saw someone in the DJ booth. It caught her eye.
“And now a special treat. An import just for tonight from California,” the DJ
said. Angel’s stomach started to turn. “Midnight,” the DJ said. Angel looked at
the stage. Mark came out. Angel got up, grabbed her coat and headed for the
door. “Angel,” Andy said. “What is this? Gang up on Angel night,” she said.
Chase grabbed her hand. “Cigarette. Outside,” he said. Angel went up the
stairs and out the door.
“Why didn’t you tell me,” Angel said. “He made me promise. It wasn’t my
idea,” Chase said. “I am going home. They can find their own way,” Angel said.
“No. Don’t leave. Please,” Chase said. “What reason do I have to stay Chase,”
Angel said. He kissed her. “No. I am going,” Angel said. “Just have a smoke
with me first,” Chase said. They finished their cigarettes and went back in. Mark
was sitting with the guys and Angel’s friends. She grabbed her purse. “You
guys have fun. I’m leaving,” Angel said. Mark tried to grab her hand. “Don’t
touch me,” Angel said as she walked out the door. “Please,” Mark said as he

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followed her up the stairs. “Go home Mark. Go,” Angel said walking out the
door. “You have to hear me out,” he said. “No I don’t. I am going back to my
hotel,” Angel said. He grabbed her hand. “Please listen to me,” he said. “No
Mark. No more listening. No more excuses. You wanted to be with her and you
probably did last week. Go to the funeral. Cry over your lost love. Don’t call
me,” Angel said. She got in her car. “Please let me explain,” Mark said. Angel
locked the doors and sat in the car. “When I told her that I was married now she
freaked. She ran out. That night was the night she did it,” Mark said. Angel lit
another cigarette. “And I assume you are going to tell me that it was so good she
decided she couldn’t live without it,” Angel said. “Baby,” Mark said. “I’ll have
my things out by the end of the month,” Angel said as she pulled out of the
parking lot.
Angel pulled back into the parking lot of her hotel and went to her room. She
checked her voicemail – 5 messages from Mark and one from Chase. “I’m on my
way. I told Crystal what happened.” BEEP “Baby please don’t do this. Please. I
love you. Don’t leave like this.” BEEP “Angel. You have to hear me out. I love
you. I don’t want to lose you. Please.” Angel pressed delete and erased all the
messages. A few hours later, there was a knock at her door. Angel looked
through the peep hole. She opened the door. “I am so sorry,” Chase said.
“What he did is just as bad as yesterday Chase. I can’t believe the mess we have
all created,” Angel said. “You know he knows where you are staying now,”
Chase said. “She had her mouth, her lips, her tongue on him. He never said a
word to me. Pretended like it never happened,” Angel said. “He loves you
Angel,” Chase said. “Yeah. On our honeymoon he lets his ex-wife go down on
him on our patio while I am out for a walk. Right. Sure he does,” Angel said.
“He answers with silence when I ask him if he wanted her. If he still wanted her.
If she was alive now if he’d want her. Damn silence!” Chase wrapped his arms
around Angel as the tears started to flow. “I was a nice toy for a while that he’s
pushed aside Chase. He doesn’t want me. He wants everyone. Everything. I
can’t do this,” Angel said. “You remember what you told me when the whole
Jess thing happened,” Chase asked. “Yeah. I told you to be honest and tell her.
Tell her that you didn’t have any feelings towards Jess because you didn’t,”
Angel said. “He told you the truth Angel,” Chase said. “Yeah. One big
difference. He still cares about her,” Angel said getting up and pouring herself a
glass of wine. “He has the most beautiful woman in the world in his arms – you.
He is a man. He gets tempted like we all do. Remember one thing. He didn’t
sleep with her. He didn’t do anything to her. It was all her,” Chase said. Angel
sat down on the bed. “He loved her Chase. She was his wife. There’s a
difference,” Angel said. “And he loves you more. He loves you enough to chase
you around the damn world if necessary. You make him happy,” Chase said.
Angel gulped the rest of the glass of wine.

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There was a knock at her door. She’d polished off an entire bottle of wine, and
Chase was trying to talk her through what had happened. Chase got up and
answered it. Angel turned and saw Mark. He walked over to her. “Don’t touch
me,” Angel said. “Please. I didn’t mean what you think I did. I cared about her
at one time. Not anymore. I still worry about her and her well-being. That’s
why I was upset when I found out she died. You have to know that I love you,”
he said. “Maybe in theory. Not in reality,” Angel said opening bottle #2. “You
know that I want you. That I can’t sleep without you,” Mark said. “I guess
you’ll have something to get used to then,” Angel said. “Please let me hold
you,” Mark said. “Touch me and you go out the window,” Angel said. “It isn’t
going to end like this. It can’t,” Mark said. “Would you rather have it end with
me doing the same thing to you,” Angel asked. “I mean Chase is here. I could
even do it in front of you Mark,” Angel said. “You up for it Chase? It turns his
crank you know,” she said. “Stop this. Stop. You are just mad. Don’t do this,”
Mark said. “If I had sex with him in front of you tell me it wouldn’t make you
horny,” Angel said gulping the glass of wine. “Stop,” Mark said. Angel walked
towards Chase. “You want it Chase. Mark’s passing on it,” Angel said. He
grabbed her wrist. “The only person who is going to be with you tonight is me.
Get used to it,” Mark said. “Let go,” Angel said. “Don’t worry Chase. We’ll
settle this,” Mark said. “I am not leaving her here. Not when you two are at
each other’s throats,” Chase said. “He wants me Mark. You don’t. Oh freakin
well,” Angel said. He still had a grip on her wrist. “Let go,” Angel said. He did
and she grabbed another glass of wine. “Stop this okay. You know that I love
you, that I want to be with you forever. It was one night,” Mark said. “Oh. You
mean the night that I didn’t get back until late? Great. See Chase. Can’t trust
him. What the hell is a marriage without trust,” Angel said. He kissed her hard
pinning her into the wall. Chase took a deep breath. “Maybe you need a
reminder,” Mark said. “No. Nothing to remind me of other than you can’t be
trusted for five minutes,” Angel said pushing him away. “I am leaving. Don’t
follow me,” Angel said. He grabbed her arm as she was about to walk out of the
room. “You want to hash this out? We are doing it now,” Mark said. He kissed
Angel hard again and pinned her against the wall. “Can you grab her bag
Chase? Follow me,” he said.
He flipped her over his shoulder and walked downstairs putting her in the car.
“Put me down Mark. Now,” Angel said as they exited the elevator to the
parking garage. “Mark,” Angel said. Mark put her in the car and got in himself.
“What the hell are you doing,” Angel said. “We are dealing with this once and
for all,” he said. “Where are we going,” Angel asked. “Back to my hotel,” he
said.
They drove back towards the airport that Angel had flown into. “I’m not staying
with you Mark,” Angel said. He ignored her protests. He flipped her over his

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shoulder and carried her to their room. “Put me down,” Angel said as he closed
and locked the door. He put her onto the bed. “You are going to listen to me. If
you don’t, you aren’t leaving until you do,” Mark said. “Now you are
threatening me,” Angel said. He kissed her pinning her to the bed. “Get off me
Mark,” Angel said. “No. You are going to hear me out,” Mark said. “What are
you going to do? Cuff me to the bed,” Angel said. She heard the jingling of
keys. “Don’t you dare,” Angel said. “Then hear me out,” he said.
“She came over. She said she needed me. She wanted me back. I told her that it
wasn’t going to happen. That we had got married. She asked if I still thought
about her. I told her that all I wanted for her was to be happy. That I had found
someone who made me happy. She asked if I still wanted her. If I still thought
about her. I told her that we had some good times. That now that I was married
to you there was no more me and her. She asked if she could be with me one last
time. I said no. She followed me onto the patio. I sat down on the chaise. She
sat down beside me. She tried to reminisce with me about the first time we’d
gone to the bar together. She was trying to get me in the mood. She brought up
the things we used to do. She reached over and subtly tried to touch me. She
asked if she could have one last time. I still said no. She ignored me and did
what she did. I told her to stop and she kept going. After, I told her to leave.
She asked if I would ever take her back. I said no. That what had happened was
a mistake and it was done. She left. She went out and bought something and
overdosed that night. I didn’t know until the day her dad showed,” he said.
“Can I leave now,” Angel said. “Can’t you understand? I don’t love her. I love
you. I want you. I need you. Not her,” Chase said. “Let me up Chase,” Angel
said. “No. Not unless you promise not to leave,” he said. “You can’t hold me
down forever,” Angel said. “Watch me,” he said. He kissed her hard. She could
tell that there was only one way to get out of this room. She could feel it. She
heard a click. “What the,” Angel said. He actually cuffed her to the bed. “Mark.
Unlock the damn thing,” Angel said. “No,” he replied. He slid her g-string off.
“Mark, I swear to god,” Angel said. He licked and teased her with his tongue
and fingers. He slid her dress off. “Mark stop. Please,” Angel said. She felt his
jeans come off and heard them drop to the floor. He slipped his dress shirt off,
throwing it to the floor. He kissed her breasts then moved to kiss her. She tried
to turn her face and he kissed her harder and more passionately than he ever
had. He made love to her then curled up with her.
“Mark, undo them,” Angel said. “No. Promise me first,” he said. “Mark,”
Angel said. “Then no,” he replied. “You are at my mercy until you promise not
to leave,” he said. “Which means,” Angel asked. “Until you promise, I can do
whatever I want,” he said. “Come on,” Angel said. “Say it then,” Mark said.
“Why should I? You’re just going to go on thinking that fantasizing about her
and screwing around on me is okay. I lived through that crap with James. I’m

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not about to repeat what happened with him,” Angel said. He kissed her again
to shut her up. “You know you don’t want to leave. Why are you making this so
hard,” Mark asked. “She touched you. She did what she did and didn’t think
twice. That’s why,” Angel said. “And I love you. Not her, you,” Mark said.
“And that changes things? If I slept with Chase outside of the bar thing you’d be
pissed wouldn’t you,” Angel said. “No. I would want to…” Angel cut him off.
“Bad example. If I were to screw some guy on the side and cheat on you, you’d
be pissed. You know you would. Why is this any different,” Angel said. He
kissed her chest and his hand slid between her legs. “Because. It is. That’s all it
was. She’s gone now. She’s gone because I said no. Because I told her that I
loved you and wanted to be with you. That’s why,” Mark said. “Stop,” Angel
said. He slid his fingers in her. “Mark,” Angel said. “I told you,” he said. He
kissed her hard. “Just stop this,” Angel said. “You don’t want me to do you,” he
whispered in her ear. They did it again and again that night. She refused to back
down. She looked at the cuffs. “Damn it Andy,” Angel said quietly. “You aren’t
getting out of them,” Mark said. “Please,” Angel said. “Promise me,” he said. “I
won’t go tonight. I can’t promise I won’t later,” Angel said. “Then no,” he said.
“Mark. Seriously. Come on,” Angel said. “Tell me you love me and mean it,”
he said. “I never said I didn’t,” Angel said. “Say it,” he said. “I do love you,”
Angel said. “Promise me you are going to stay with me and we will work this
out together without having to hop planes to do it,” he said. “I will try to work
this out Mark, but you have to…” He kissed her hard. “Say it,” he said. “I will
try,” Angel said. He undid them.
They both went to sleep. Angel got up mid-way through the night. He rolled
over and she wasn’t in bed. He opened her eyes and saw her staring out the
window. “Come back to bed,” he said. “No. I can’t,” Angel said. “Why,” he
said. “All I see when I close my eyes is her with her mouth on you. The look on
your face. I can’t,” Angel said. He got up walking towards her. “Just leave me
alone okay,” Angel said. He kissed her. She leaned against the window. He
opened the front of her robe. “Mark, no okay,” Angel said. He grabbed her leg,
wrapping it around him and kissed her hard to silence her. They had sex, then
he carried her back to the bed. He held on with both hands. When he woke up
in the morning, she was gone and so was her bag. She left him a note.
I can’t do this Mark. Just leave me alone. – Angel
He knew where she’d gone. Her rental car was still in the lot. He called Chase.
“She’s really not happy Mark,” Chase said. “She’s with you two right,” he said.
“Just give her time okay,” Chase said. “I am coming there. Don’t let her leave,”
Mark said.

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He pulled into the driveway a half hour or so later. “She’s not here Mark,”
Crystal said. “Where is Chase’s truck,” Mark asked. “He’s with Angel,” she
said. Mark leaned against the car. “Come in. The kids are at camp,” Crystal
said. She handed him a coffee and they sat down. “She wasn’t feeling well this
morning,” Crystal said. “Probably hung over,” Mark said. “Not quite. She
wasn’t feeling well until around lunch,” she said. “What are you trying to say,”
Mark said. She looked at him.
“Please say it’s negative. Please,” Angel said. “What does two lines mean,”
Chase asked. “Oh god no,” Angel said. He read the box. “No. It would be a
plus sign. It’s negative,” he said. “Thank god,” Angel said. “You still need to
talk to him. You can’t hide here forever,” Chase said. “Who said I was going to?
I am flying home this afternoon. I switched the rental car to his name. My flight
leaves at 6pm,” Angel said. “That leaves you 5 hours to hide out,” Chase said.
“So what’s your plan for the next 5 hours,” Angel said. They headed to the park.
He pulled into the parking lot and they walked. “I can’t believe you finally came
back here,” Chase said. “It’s the only place I knew that made me feel better,”
Angel said. “Come on. Let’s walk,” Chase said. They got to an enclosed area.
“She is one lucky lady you know,” Angel said. “Who? Crystal,” Chase asked.
“She has a good man. You’ve screwed up, but you two are okay. You have a
family. Everything that I’ve ever wanted. I get Mark. Somehow that doesn’t
seem fair,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her
again. They laid down on the grass. “We...” He silenced her with another kiss.
He pulled something out and slipped his jeans down. “Not here,” Angel said.
He took her hand and they went back to the truck. He kissed her hard and
pulled her into his lap. They had sex in the truck. “Shit,” Chase said. “Missed
that didn’t you,” Angel asked slipping off his lap. “Hell yes,” he said. He
looked at the time. “We have an hour before you have to be at the airport,” he
said. “Hmmm,” Angel said. They headed to the airport.
Chase walked in the door at dinner time. The kids were home. “Hey Mark,”
Chase said. “Where is she,” Mark asked. “Gone home,” Chase said. “You
talked her into going home,” Mark asked. “No. She said there was something
she needed to do for work tomorrow,” Chase said. Mark bolted out the door
calling his travel agent on the way. “The flight to Los Angeles was delayed an
hour. How fast can you get to the airport,” she said. “20 minutes,” he said.
“Luggage,” she asked. “Carry-on,” he said. “You’re on it,” she said.
Angel took her seat and tried to do a little writing. Was nice having the set of
three to herself. She got some work done. “If I could have your attention. The
flight is going to be delayed for an hour or so. There is a storm coming that we
are waiting out. Shouldn’t be too long. Please be patient.” “Great,” Angel said.
She finished her report that was due the next day. “This seat taken,” a voice

148. 2
said. She turned to her right and looked up. “Nope,” Angel said as she noticed
the muscular man in front of her. He looked like a football player of some kind.
“Hey. Name’s Dave,” he said shaking her hand. “Angel,” Angel replied. “What
you working on,” he asked as he got comfortable. “Just finishing work,” Angel
said. “You must be Canadian. You don’t have one of those American accents,”
he said. “From the city,” Angel said. “Damn. Me too,” he replied. They
chatted. “Can I get you two a drink,” the stewardess asked. “Zinfandel if you
have it,” Angel said. “Well cheers,” he said. “Angel looked as the last passenger
boarded the plane. “Everyone please take your seats. We are preparing to take
off.” The last passenger sat behind her. He had his own portion of a row too.
They headed into the air. “Feel free to move about the cabin.”

149. 2
Chapter 18 – The Flight Home
Angel spent the next half hour or so talking to Dave. The guy behind her kept
trying to make a call, then would hang up. “So, you single Angel,” he asked.
“Well,” Angel said. “No she isn’t. She’s married,” the voice behind her said.
“Sort of complicated,” she said. “No it isn’t,” Mark said standing up. “Hi.
Mark. Her husband,” Mark said. “Nice to meet you,” Dave said. “May I speak
with you a minute,” Mark asked. “No,” Angel said. “Why don’t I leave you two
a minute. I have to hit the men’s room anyway,” he said. He got up and headed
down the aisle. “Leaving and didn’t even tell me,” Mark said. “I’m going to
pack my things,” Angel said. “Oh hell no you aren’t. You aren’t leaving me over
this,” he said. “Go back to your seat and leave me alone,” Angel said. “Hell no.
So you can hit on football guy? Hell no,” Mark said. Angel got up and headed
down the aisle. “Are there any seats left in first class,” Angel asked. “Two,” the
stewardess said. “How much extra,” Angel asked. “Fifty,” the stewardess said.
“I’ll take them. Hand the ticket to the gentleman that was sitting beside me,”
Angel said. He came out of the washroom. “Moved our seats,” Angel said. She
grabbed her things and he grabbed his following behind Angel. First class was
blocked to the other passengers without a pass. It was perfect. “So you are
married,” Dave said. “Let’s just say that will probably be null and void soon
enough,” Angel said. “So,” Dave said. “So,” Angel said.
“What do you mean I can’t go up there? That’s my wife,” Mark said. “No access
without a first class ticket,” the stewardess said. “I have to talk to her,” Mark
said. “I can pass her a note, but you can’t go up there,” she said. Mark sat down
and wrote her a note.
Angel,
Don’t do this. Don’t end things like this. I love you.
It’s never going to happen again. I swear. Please.
Mark
She took it to Angel in her seat. “So yeah. You’re trying out for the Raiders,”
Angel said. “Trying out. They asked me to come down there. Who knows,” he
said. Angel read the note. “Do you have a pen by any chance,” Angel asked. He
handed her the pen and she replied to his note.

150. 2
Mark. You started it. Do you expect me to want to
voluntarily be with you after her mouth has been on
you? Knowing that all someone needs to do is talk
dirty to you and you are turned on? Angel
She handed it back to the stewardess. “So when is your tryout,” Angel asked.
“Two days. I get a day to get caught up on my sleep and the next day I have to
be at my best,” he said. “I’m sure you will do really well. Your girlfriend must
be really excited for you,” Angel said. “Single man. No girlfriend,” he said.
“Well then it’s a great opportunity for you,” Angel said. “Refill,” the stewardess
asked. Angel nodded. “So Angel,” Dave said.
Mark read her reply.
Angel,
The only woman who turns me on is you. I love you.
Please. The only woman I want to ever be with is
you. Stop this. Please. The only woman who can get
me turned on like that is you. The feel of your skin
on mine, your lips on mine. The feel of you when I
make you come. Please.
Mark
The stewardess took the letter back to Angel. “I don’t see why we couldn’t meet
for dinner or drinks or something,” Angel said. “Then I can definitely see you
again,” Dave said. Angel read the note. He handed her a pen.
How do you think it’s going to feel when someone
else can do that to me and you can’t.
The stewardess took it back. “Definitely,” Angel said. “You are a beautiful
woman,” Dave said. “Well thank you,” Angel replied. “So let me get this right.
He technically is, but soon won’t be your husband,” Dave said. “Which in easier
terms means, why you askin’,” Angel said. “I wanted to kiss you,” Dave said.

151. 2
Mark read the note. “Please let me go up there and talk to her,” Mark said.
“Unless she’s willing to come back here, no,” the stewardess said. “Is she sitting
with that football player,” Mark asked. “Yes,” she replied.
Angel,
Please don’t do this. I want you all to myself.
Please. I can’t bear to think of you with some other
man. I can’t bear to see him touching you, fucking
you. I can’t bear to think of him tasting you.
Please. I promise I will make all this up to you.
Please come back here. Come back to me.
Mark
She slipped the note in Angel’s hand. He kissed Angel. “You are so hot. God.
Are all the girls in Cali like you,” he asked. “Nope. Special import,” Angel said.
She read the note. For some reason what he wrote was making her hot.
Mark
Not a chance in hell. You had your chance. You blew
it. You don’t get to feel me anymore. You are cut
off. No more taste or anything. You want me, you’ll
have to stand in line.
“I guess you are. Damn. You are hotter than those magazine chicks any day,”
Dave said. “Well gee. Should I be taking that as a compliment,” Angel asked.
“Definitely girl. Would ask you something else, but I don’t know if you’d be
game,” he asked.
Mark got the note back. There was only an hour and a half left of the flight.
Then he was screwed.
Baby,

152. 2
I love you. Please give me another chance. No more
stupid bar. I promise. None of it. Just give me a
chance to make it up to you. Please. I want you.
Now. Here on this plane. Please. Meet me in the
lavatory back here. Please.
She slipped the note back to Angel. “Give me a minute okay,” Angel said. She
walked back to the washroom. Mark saw her. He knocked. “What the hell do
you want,” Angel asked. He kissed her and sat her on the sink. They had sex
then he kissed her again. “Come sit with me,” he said. “Answer is still no
Mark,” Angel said. She walked out and went to go back to her seat.
Mark ran out behind her. “Give me 5 minutes,” Mark said. “Let go,” Angel said.
“5 minutes. I promise,” he said. Angel went and sat down. “What,” she replied.
“I know you love me. You are mad. I get it. Don’t do something with him you
are going to regret. Please. Give me another chance.” Angel got up and went
back to her seat.
“Everyone please take your seats. We will be landing momentarily.” Angel sat
down and they landed. She grabbed her bag and Dave walked her to the
luggage turn. “Was nice meeting you Dave. We’ll talk soon,” Angel said
heading out. She headed for her car. She hopped in and took off.
She walked into the house and said a quick hello to Goldie. She threw some
more of her things into a bag. She’d got almost all of her clothes packed when
she heard the door open. The alarm was pressed. “Shit,” Angel thought. She
went downstairs and went to head out the front door. “No. You aren’t leaving,”
Mark said. He pulled the bag from her hand. “I’m done. I’m finished playing
the part of the wife. I am going,” Angel said. He kissed her pinning her against
the wall. “This is all we have. Sex. We can do that and not be together Mark.
He picked her up and carried her upstairs to their bedroom. “Put me down.
Mark put me down now,” Angel demanded. He put her on the bed, sliding her
skirt off. He pulled her shirt and bra off, throwing them to the ground. His hand
grazed her, and he slid her g-string off. He licked and teased, then his fingers
took over and he kissed her again. “Mark,” Angel said. “Want it don’t you,” he
said. He was getting more and more intense. He slid his jeans off, kicking them
to the floor. He made love to her over and over again. “I have to go,” Angel
said.
He curled up beside her pulling her close to him. “No. You can’t go,” he said.
“What’s going to happen the next time your ex or anyone wants you Mark.

153. 2
You’re just going to let them do what they want. They want to go down on you,
they can. They want you to have sex with them, you will. That the way it
works,” Angel said. “Only for you,” Mark said. “Only for me what,” Angel
said. He flipped her on her stomach. “Shit,” Angel said as he started round
three. “You aren’t running now are you,” he said still going. “Oh god,” Angel
said. “Admit it. Admit that you don’t want to leave. Tell me you want me,” he
said. “Mark,” Angel said. His hands slid around, holding her breasts and still
going. “Say it,” Mark said. “I don’t but,” Angel said. “You want it. You want it
morning noon and night,” he said. They came at the same time. “Oh my god,”
Angel said. He held her close to him. “What’s the but? Do I have to remind you
again,” he asked. “No,” Angel said. “Then,” he asked. “I can’t be here. I just
can’t,” Angel said. “Why,” he asked. “You and her were on that patio Mark,”
Angel said. “So were we,” Mark said. “Tell me that wasn’t the same day,”
Angel said. He kissed her. “You can’t leave baby. This is our home. Our place.
Please,” Mark said. Angel got up. “Where are you going,” he asked. Angel
headed for the shower. The steam started to fill the room. He got into the
shower behind her.
“Tell me you aren’t leaving,” Mark asked. He kissed her, leaning her against the
wall. “Tell me,” he said. Angel said nothing. “You can’t leave me,” he said. “I
have to,” Angel said. “No,” Mark said.
All of a sudden he woke up. Angel was in his arms. He checked the clock. He
kissed her cheek. They’d made it through the night. She was still there. He
rolled her towards him and kissed her. “Mark,” Angel said. “You didn’t leave,”
he said. “Was freakin exhausted. I needed sleep,” Angel said. She got up.
“Please don’t tell me you are leaving,” he said. “I’m going for a run,” Angel said.
She pulled on her runners, shorts, tank and jacket, then grabbed her ipod and
left. He put all her things back in her closet. Her toiletries back in the
washroom. He made them breakfast and brought it outside for them. When she
got back, he was outside. “Don’t think that I’m not still leaving,” Angel said.
“Why? What good would it do,” he said. “Where’s my bag,” Angel asked.
“Away,” he replied. “Mark. I am not staying here after all this. I am going,”
Angel said. He took her hand and sat her in the chaise. “It’s over. Done. Never
to be repeated. She’s gone. It’s just you and me. Why can’t we just keep going,”
Mark said. “Because Mark. Once was one time too many,” Angel said. He
kneeled down in front of her. “Please. Can’t we just start over,” he asked.
“With what Mark,” Angel asked. “Let me make it up to you. Anything,” he
said. “Let me go then,” Angel said. She got up and went back inside. She
grabbed her things and packed them. “No,” he said. “I love you. Please,” he
said. “Give me the week okay. One week,” Angel said. She put a weeks worth
of clothes in her bag and her toiletries. She threw in her shorts and tanks.
“There’s nothing I can do to change your mind,” he said. “No. One week Mark.

154. 2
No calling, no bugging. One week,” Angel said. “Kiss goodbye at least,” he
asked. “No,” Angel said. She walked out and hopped in her car. She pulled out
and headed off to her hotel.
Angel checked in and headed out to her balcony. “Silence,” Angel said. She
plugged her laptop in and got to work. She had emails to go through, reports
and a few other smaller things to do that week. She got most of it done that
morning. An email popped up from Chase.
Tried to stall him. Sorry. Hope you are ok. He said you weren’t
at the house. Where’d you go? Have to come down for 3 days
this week to get contract signed.
Angel smiled. She replied.
Suite 169. Sea Venture.
She leaned back in her chair and breathed in the salt air. Chase called her cell.
“You mean the one the opposite direction from the house,” he asked. “That’s the
one,” Angel said. “Want a roomie for a few days,” he asked. “Next door
roomie,” Angel said. See you tomorrow night then,” Chase said.
Angel got some work done and relaxed. There was no pressure, no stress. She
had a quiet dinner alone and relaxed with a book before bed. The next morning,
she got up and headed into the office. “Been trying to call you. Where the hell
have you been Angel,” Raven asked. “Taking a break from life,” Angel said. “A
break from Mark more like it. What’s going on,” Alicia said chiming in as usual.
“Nothing you guys need to worry about,” Angel said logging into her email.
“You two fighting already,” Aubrey said. “Just leave it alone. We are going
through something and I need space. That’s all,” Angel said. “Okay then. You
up for a girls night,” they asked. “Can’t do it this week. I am swamped with
work. Maybe some other time,” Angel said. “Okay. Now I know something is
up. You never turn down a girls night,” Raven said. “Maybe on the weekend.
Not during the week. Really, I am swamped,” Angel said. “Okay then.
Saturday night,” Alicia said. The ladies headed off to their desks and Angel
finally started to get her work done.
She headed back to the hotel around 4. There was a message for her on the
voicemail. “Knock on the door,” the voice said. Angel went next door to see
Chase. “Nice to know you made it in one piece,” she said at the door. He came
to the door and opened it wrapping his arms around Angel. “Hey there
beautiful,” Chase said kissing her. “Hey yourself Chase,” Angel replied. “You

155. 2
seem to be in a pretty good mood considering,” he said. “Just needed some time
to process things,” Angel said. She walked back into her room and Chase
followed. “You know you are like a puppy in heat,” Angel said. “Only around
you,” Chase said. “You know what happened the other day was a mistake,”
Angel said. “One hell of a mistake,” Chase said. “Don’t even go there Chase.
We never should have done this in the first place,” Angel said. He leaned in to
kiss her and she ran for the washroom. “You okay,” he asked. “Fine,” Angel
said. “What’s going on with you,” he asked. “Don’t know. Probably the flu or
something,” Angel said. Chase was quiet and stared at her. “Really,” he said.
“Don’t start. It came up negative,” Angel said. “Did you redo it,” he asked.
“No. Why bother. One negative was enough for me,” Angel said. “Okay. I still
think you should redo it,” Chase said. “Fine. I will redo it tomorrow morning,”
Angel said. “What happens if you are,” Chase asked. “Then I am screwed,”
Angel said. “You love him though don’t you,” Chase asked. “Yeah, but you
have to understand something Chase. I was stunned when she still married you
after the Jess thing. I couldn’t even sleep with him without seeing the two of
them goofing around. It’s not something I can forget,” Angel said. “Still, one
mistake can’t ruin everything. Really,” Chase said. “It can. Believe me,” Angel
said.
That night she had a quiet dinner with Chase at the restaurant then headed to
bed alone. The next morning bright and early, Chase showed up at her door
with 3 pregnancy tests. “Here. Do it,” he said. Angel took the tests. One by
one, the results came up. Angel couldn’t look. “Well, you definitely don’t have
the flu,” Chase said. “What? Don’t tell me they are,” Angel said. Chase nodded
and pulled out three sticks with positive signs. Angel sat down on the bed.
“What the hell am I supposed to do now Chase? I can’t stay with him. Not
now,” Angel said. “Like a baby isn’t a good enough reason,” Chase said. “I’m
not like you and Crystal. I can’t stay with someone because of a baby. It’s not
good enough. I have to be with him because I love him and want to stay with
him. God what have I got myself into,” Angel said. “Go to the doctor and see
how far along,” Chase said. Angel called and made an appointment.
Around 4 that day, Angel left the doctor’s office and headed down to the car to
meet Chase. “Well,” he asked. “Six weeks,” Angel said. “Damn. I can’t believe
this,” he said. “You and me both,” Angel said. “I would say I needed a drink
but I guess I can’t now can I,” Angel said throwing out her package of cigarettes.
Chase hugged her. “It’s Thursday. When did you say you were going back,”
Chase asked. “Sunday night,” Angel said. “Do you want me to go with you,” he
asked. “No. I have to do this alone. I know exactly what he’s going to do. I
have to do this by myself,” Angel said. “I have to leave tomorrow afternoon to
get back for work. You sure you’re going to be okay,” he asked. Angel nodded
and hugged him. “Okay. We are doing dinner tonight then,” Chase said.

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“Where,” Angel asked. “That Copa place. Be ready at 5,” Chase said. Angel
nodded. She sat down to her computer and tried to get work done as Chase
headed off to get ready.
They pulled into the restaurant and headed inside. “Your regular table is
available,” the host said. He seated them. Angel scoured the room for any sign
of Mark or her girls. “They aren’t here. Good,” Angel said. “He did say he was
going to give you the time. Why would he be here,” Chase asked. Angel shook
her head and ordered her dinner. “And to drink,” the waiter asked. “Ice water,”
Angel said. Chase turned and looked towards the door. “Damn,” he said.
“What Chase,” Angel asked. “Well. Funny seeing you two here,” Mark said
walking towards the table. The waiter brought their drinks over. “Ice water,”
Mark asked. “Go away Mark,” Angel said. “So is this why you were so eager to
take off,” Mark asked. “No. I told you. I needed time. This doesn’t seem like
you are giving me time,” Angel said. “Can I talk to you a minute,” Mark asked.
“No,” Angel replied. Angel turned and saw who he’d come in with. “On a date
eh Mark,” Angel said. She got up and grabbed her coat heading towards the
door. “We’ll just get our stuff to go,” Angel said to the waiter. “Angel,” Mark
said walking towards her. “Mark, leave her be okay,” Chase said. Angel walked
out and got into the car, locking the doors behind her. “Come on. You seriously
doing this? Angel. Talk to me,” Mark said. “Go away Mark,” Angel said.
“How do you expect me to react when I see you with Chase? You said you
needed time alone. Please. Talk to me,” Mark asked. Chase came out with their
dinner. “Chase, get her to talk to me,” Mark asked. “I can’t Mark. She needs
some time. I am only here on business so don’t think that she got me here. She
doesn’t back out of her promises Mark. She won’t start now,” Chase said. He
hopped into the car and they headed back to the hotel.
The next morning, Angel woke up and tried to think. How was she going to do
this without Mark knowing? She couldn’t bring a baby into this. She just
couldn’t. Everything was so messed up. Mark’s ex was dead, he had a fling with
her before she died, now Angel was pregnant. This was too much stress even for
her. Chase knocked on the door. “Morning,” he said as Angel opened the door
for him. He brought in some breakfast for them and tried to help Angel relax.
“What the hell am I supposed to do now,” Angel asked. “Relax for one.
Everything will be okay. It’s not like you need to tell him immediately,” Chase
said. “He’ll know eventually,” Angel said. “You’ll figure it out,” Chase said.
“It’s too bad I couldn’t just head home,” Angel said. “Running away isn’t going
to help,” Chase replied. He hugged Angel. They had breakfast and she decided
to try to talk to Mark.
Angel went for a walk down the beach. When she got to the house, she went and
sat on her swing. Goldie came running down the back steps and headed right

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towards her. “Hello beautiful girl. Where’s daddy,” Angel said. Goldie barked
and headed towards the house. She went in the back door and into Mark’s
office. Goldie barked and he turned around. “I knew you would come back,”
Mark said walking towards her. “Stop,” Angel said holding her hand out. “I
just think we should talk.” “I am so sorry baby. Please forgive me,” Mark said.
“She’s gone. You had a point. The fact is, that I don’t want to relive this. I don’t
want to go through this again with some other woman someday,” Angel said.
“You won’t. I swear on Goldie. Please,” Mark said. “You can’t just say it Mark.
You have to prove it,” Angel said. “How,” he asked. “My first question…who
was your date last night,” Angel said.
By the time she headed home, she had been able to get all her stress out with
Mark. She still hadn’t told him about the baby. She hadn’t figured out how yet.
She headed back to the hotel that night and walked into her room. There were
roses by the bed. Angel read the card.
Always a shoulder when you need one. Luv Chase
Angel smiled and inhaled the scent of the roses. She drew herself a hot bubble
bath and relaxed. She only had two nights left before she had promised to be
back, one of which was promised to her girlfriends for a girls night out. She
stepped out of the bathtub and the phone rang. “We doing girls night tonight or
what,” Raven asked. “I guess so,” Angel said. “We’re going to Sapphire,” Raven
said. “I’ll meet you guys there,” Angel said. She got dressed and pulled on her
dress, heading out the door.
She headed in and the girls were already on their first drink. “Sorry I was late,”
Angel said. “Can I get you a drink,” the waiter asked. “Ginger ale,” Angel
replied. “What’s up with that,” Alicia asked as the waiter headed off. “Just
don’t really feel like a drink tonight,” Angel said. “Don’t tell me you are, you
know,” Aubrey asked. “She couldn’t be,” Raven said. “Would you all stop
talking about me like I’m not here,” Angel said. “I have had the flu for a couple
days is all,” Angel said. “So what’s up with you and Mark anyway,” Alicia
asked. “What do you mean,” Angel asked. “I tried to call and he told me you
weren’t there….three days in a row,” she said. “Nothing really. Was staying
with a friend,” Angel said. “So the one question we all want to know, how’s
Chase,” Aubrey said. “He’s good,” Angel replied. “We need more dirt than
that,” Alicia said. “He’s a good friend. Don’t even go there,” Angel said. “A
good friend I wouldn’t mind staring at,” Aubrey said.
By the time Angel headed home, she felt like she’d been grilled. She loved a
night out with them once in a while, but she had more important things to think

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about. What was she going to do about the baby? How was she going to tell
Mark?
Angel spent Saturday relaxing on the beach. She hoped that maybe a day of
relaxation and sun would help her to relax and figure out what she needed to.
That night, she tried again to have her relaxing bubble bath, then went straight to
bed. She’d need the sleep. It was going to be a long day on Sunday.

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Chapter 19
Angel got up the next morning and went for her jog, then came back, cleaned up
and headed home. She walked in and there was no sign of Mark. Goldie was in
the back and his car was gone. “Perfect,” she said as she went outside to be with
Goldie. She checked the voicemails. “Hi Mark. It’s Kylie. Was just checking to
see if you wanted to do dinner tonight. Hope to hear from you.” Angel could
feel her blood pressure rising. “Hi Mark. It’s Christine. Was just wondering
what you were up to tonight. Was going to go down to the bar. Was going to
see if you wanted me to finish that dance. Call me.” Angel had heard enough.
She went upstairs and put all of her things into her big suitcase, then pulled it
down the steps. “Hey Mark. It’s Andy. Had a great time the other night. Thank
god the girls don’t know. Damn. Aubrey would kick my behind if she knew.
Talk to you later dude.” Angel put her bags at the door and sat down on the
sofa. She pressed play to play the rest of the messages. “Hi Mark. It’s Cryslyn.
From the other night. Was going to see if you wanted to meet up for a drink.
Call me.” If only she could pour a huge glass of wine. If only she could have a
cigarette. Angel called her boss at home. “Was going to see if you would be
okay with me working offsite for the next few weeks. I may be moving. I am
trying to track down a condo…….great…….I will definitely let you know,”
Angel said hanging up. There was one last message on the machine. “Hey
Mark. It’s Dee. Just wanted to hear the sound of your voice. Miss you. The
other night was awesome. Call me tonight.” Angel sat down as tears welled up
in her eyes. She went onto the computer and emailed Chase.
Coming for an extended visit. Don’t ask. Will contact you when I
get there. Know of any jobs? I am dead serious. Find something.
She went onto the airline website and got herself a one way ticket to see Chase.
She deleted the history of what she’d done and erased it from the computer,
logged off and went and sat back down. Her flight was leaving at 1AM. It
would be perfect.
Around 8, Mark came home. He saw Angel asleep on the sofa and luggage at
the door. He walked over to her and she woke up. “You came back,” he said.
“Just came back to tell you that I really am leaving. Goodbye Mark,” Angel said
getting up and walking towards the door. “What? What is this about? Angel.
Baby. Please,” Mark said following her to the door. “Why don’t you go and
answer the voicemails Mark. How many women did you sleep with this week,”
Angel said. He grabbed her arm. “What are you talking about,” Mark asked.
“Kylie, Christine, Cryslyn and Dee. That’s what I am talking about,” Angel said
pulling herself out of his grasp. “Angel. Don’t take this the wrong way. Those

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girls are friends and they came out with Andy and I the other night. We went to
Lucky’s. They are girls that work with Andy. He said I needed a night out,”
Mark said. “Whatever Mark. I don’t believe you anymore. How can I,” Angel
said. He grabbed her hand. He called Andy with his cell in the other hand.
“Hey. You have to explain the Kylie and gang thing to Angel. She’s freaking
out,” Mark said. He handed the phone to Angel. “They really are friends of
mine from the station. They all love Mark. He did nothing but talk about you to
them all night. I took him to a stripper bar, then we headed out to Sapphire and
bumped into them there. That’s all,” Andy said. Angel handed him back the
phone and pulled up the handle on her suitcase. “Where are you going,” he
asked. Angel walked out the door and put her bags in the trunk. “Do what you
want Mark. You can be a single guy for the rest of your life if you want,” Angel
said. “Come back in and talk to me. Please,” he said. He wrapped his arms
around her. “Please,” he said. Angel checked her watch – 9PM. She went back
into the house. “Baby. You can’t leave because of this. It just snowballed.
Please,” Mark said.
Angel sat down. “Baby. You know I couldn’t be with someone else,” he said.
She was quiet. “You know I love you. I could never do that. I missed you. He
only took me out because he saw how upset I was. Please,” Mark said. Her eyes
were welling up. “What’s wrong? You have been acting weird the past two
days. What’s going on,” Mark asked. Angel walked out the door and hopped in
her car and headed for the airport. “I’m here to pick up a ticket,” Angel said.
“No. You aren’t going,” Mark said coming to her at the counter. She checked
her bags and headed towards the gate. “You aren’t doing this,” he said. He
grabbed her hand and pulled her back to him. “I didn’t do anything. I swear to
god baby. Please. I didn’t do anything with them,” Mark said. Her eyes were
red and puffy. “You know I love you. I could never love anyone else,” Mark
said. He kissed her and she pushed him away. “Baby. Let me help. What’s
wrong,” Mark asked. She tried to walk away again and he grabbed her arm.
“You can’t really think I am letting you get on that plane,” Mark said. “Let me
go Mark. Please,” Angel said. “I can’t. I love you. Can’t you see that,” Mark
said. “Go be with whoever you want Mark. Please,” Angel said backing up and
walking towards the gate. He came over behind her. “No. You aren’t leaving
me,” he said. “Can’t you see this is better this way? Please,” Angel said with
tears streaming down her face. “Tell me what I have to do. Please,” Mark said.
“Go home,” Angel said. She went through the gate. “Awfully early miss,” the
gentleman said. She took a seat and the tears flowed. She couldn’t breathe.
“You can’t leave like this.” The words kept ringing through her head. Maybe he
was right. Maybe she was over reacting. Maybe he really had just gone out with
Andy and they were from the station. Angel cancelled her ticket and got her
bags back. She threw them into the trunk. She went for a drive, and ended up at

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the beach. She went to the cove. The place where she’d felt so happy. Her
phone rang. “Thought you would be on the plane by now,” Chase said. “I’m at
the cove,” Angel replied. She hung up. He knew how hard this had to be for
her. Maybe she would take him back. Chase hoped for the best, but braced
himself for the worst.
A half hour later, she felt a dog licking her face. She’d fallen asleep. “Goldie, cut
it out,” Angel said. “You didn’t go,” Mark said walking towards her. “I couldn’t
breathe,” Angel said. He sat down beside her and wrapped his arms around her.
“I couldn’t without you either,” Mark said. Her tears streamed down her face.
“Would you tell me what’s going on,” Mark said. “I just assumed the worst
when I heard those messages,” Angel said. He kissed her. He’d wanted to do
that from the second he saw her. The second he’d seen one tear fall from her
blue eyes. He had missed her. He finally felt whole again for the first time in
weeks. “Will you come home with me,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. “Car up
there,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. He kissed her again. “Come on Goldie.
Let’s take mom home,” Mark said as they headed to the car.
They walked into the house. “Come on. Everything will be okay,” Mark said.
Angel sat down on the sofa. “Which wine do you want,” Mark asked. “Ice
water,” Angel said. He paused. He brought her over her ice water. “You never
have ice water,” Mark said. “Dehydrated,” Angel said. “No. First the other
night, then now,” Mark said to himself. Angel got up and walked upstairs. She
drew herself a hot bubble bath and slipped into it. Mark came in. “Talk to me,”
he said. “How do you expect me to react Mark. Other women leaving messages
on the house phone? I mean I assumed,” Angel said. He silenced her with a
kiss. “May I,” he asked. Angel nodded. He slid into the bathtub with her.
“Okay. Truth. Something is going on with you isn’t it,” Mark said. Angel was
quiet. “Something that you told Chase that you haven’t told me?” Again she
was quiet. He held her in his arms and leaned back in the tub. A half hour or so
later, Angel got out and dried herself off. “Where are you going,” Mark asked.
“Cold,” Angel said. She slipped her robe on, and headed for the bedroom. He
followed, wrapping a towel around his waist.
Angel slipped into her warm shirt that she loved from Mark’s closet. “Baby.
Talk to me,” Mark said. “Can I ask a question,” Angel asked. “Anything,” Mark
replied. “Would the craziness stop if we had a baby,” Angel said. “As in the
bar? We still could go if we really wanted to. It would just be a little different,”
Mark said. “Why?” He stopped and turned to face her. Angel climbed under
the covers. He walked over to the bed. “Baby. What aren’t you telling me,”
Mark said. “Just asking. I mean we were trying at one point right,” Angel asked.
“We were, and I think we still are aren’t we,” Mark asked. Angel was quiet.
“What aren’t you telling me baby,” he said pulling her into his arms. “Nothing, I

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just wanted to know. I don’t want to bring a baby into any craziness,” Angel
said. “We would do what we think is right. Why all the questions,” Mark asked.
“No reason,” Angel said. They were quiet a while. “I know you better than that.
Why are you asking,” Mark said. Angel rolled over. “No. You aren’t shutting
me out. Tell me what’s happening,” Mark said. The phone rang. “Saved by the
bell,” Angel thought to herself. “Hey Andy. Yeah. She’s here. Will do buddy.
Tell them I said thanks for trying to cheer me up the other night,” Mark said. It
was obvious to Angel he was trying to prove himself. “Will do. Talk to you
later,” he said hanging up. “Now where were we,” Mark asked. “Oh yeah. You
are keeping secrets from me,” Mark said. Angel tried to close her eyes and roll
over. “No. You aren’t going to sleep until you tell me what’s going on,” Mark
said. “I’m just asking okay. It’s nothing,” Angel said. “You promised no secrets.
Why do I feel like you are keeping something from me,” Mark said. “Paranoia,”
Angel said. “No. I don’t think so,” Mark said. “Fine. I will let you off the hook
tonight. We are having a Friday night chat tomorrow,” Mark said. “You know I
love you right,” Mark said. He wrapped an arm around her. “Yes baby. I
know,” Angel said. He curled up right beside her. “I’m sorry baby,” Mark said.
“Fine,” Angel replied. “I promise. Never ever again,” Mark said. “Okay,”
Angel said yawning. They fell asleep curled up together.
The next morning, Mark woke up and Angel wasn’t in bed. Her stuff was put
back in the cupboards and her things were back in the bathroom. He went
downstairs. There was a note on the counter.
Gone for a run with Goldie. Be back in a while.
He made them some coffee and juice and a little breakfast and headed out to the
patio. It was almost 10. She must have been up early. He saw her heading back
around 11:15. Goldie ran for the patio and Angel walked behind. “Well hello
beautiful,” Mark said. “Hi,” Angel said. She sat down in her regular chair and
had some breakfast. “Coffee,” Mark asked. “No thanks,” Angel replied having
her orange juice. “You always have coffee with me in the morning,” Mark said.
“Don’t feel like coffee today,” Angel said. “Did you have a good run,” Mark
asked. “Went for a walk with Miss Goldie. Went for a swim too,” Angel said.
“How was the water,” he asked. “Getting cooler. Very refreshing though,”
Angel said. She hoped he wouldn’t hold her to that conversation. She still
hadn’t figured out how to tell him. “So what are your plans for the day,” Mark
asked. “Have an appointment this afternoon. Shouldn’t be long,” Angel said.
She’d made another appointment with the doctor. If what she said was true, the
baby was due in March – the same time as his birthday. “When you get back
from your appointment, we can have our chat then. I’ll order Chinese,” Mark
said. “Sounds good,” Angel said. She was going to have to make this one a long
one. Angel went inside and hopped into the shower. The hot water warmed her

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skin. She hoped it would clear her mind. She heard the door open and felt his
hands wrap around her. “Thought I would join you,” Mark said kissing her
neck. His hands held her breasts as the heat from his body gave her goose
bumps. “I missed you so bad,” he said as he leaned against her. She felt his
manhood against her. “Mark,” Angel said. He turned her around and kissed her
hard, leaning her against the shower wall. He picked her up, wrapping her legs
around him. “God I missed you,” he said as they started to have sex.
Angel headed into her appointment. “Come on in Angel,” the doctor said. “How
are you feeling?” “Scared, nervous, anxious. Let me see. Everything,” Angel
said. “Guess this was unplanned then,” the doctor said. “No. We just started
trying, but I guess I am just really nervous about what this means now,” Angel
said. “Have you told the father,” she asked. “No. Not yet anyway,” Angel said.
“In a few weeks, he will definitely know. You have got to tell him,” she said. “I
know, I’m just trying to figure out the right way to do this,” Angel said. She did
her examination. “So your due date is St. Patties day, or somewhere around
there,” the doctor said. “Thanks,” Angel replied. “Don’t forget your vitamins. I
put them in that other vitamin bottle that you asked us to. I still don’t
understand why, but okay,” the doctor said. “Okay,” Angel said. “So see you in
a few weeks,” she said. “Will do,” Angel said heading out. She made her
appointment and headed off to the store. Something had clicked. She knew just
what to do to tell him. “Don’t forget the pictures,” the nurse said as she handed
them to Angel as she boarded the elevator.
Angel headed back into the house. She almost hoped that Mark was busy and
would have forgotten about the talk. She came in at almost 5, and noticed the
Chinese food. He hadn’t forgotten. Angel sat down and grabbed an ice water.
“Have a glass with me,” Mark said. “No. I think I’ll stick with the ice water,”
Angel said. They had dinner, then relaxed together. “Okay. Question one,”
Mark said. “What is the secret you aren’t telling me.” “At least start with
something easier,” Angel said. “Okay. Why did you call Chase and get him
here,” Mark said. “He had to come for business. He stayed at the same hotel.
That’s all,” Angel said. “Okay. Those three girls. Why were they really calling,”
Angel said. “Andy never told them I was married and I guess they don’t read
that section of the paper. They tried. I told them I was married. I had forgotten
to erase the messages,” Mark said. “Okay,” Angel said. “So. Now back to the
question I want to know the answer to,” Mark said. “First, I have something for
you,” Angel said. She handed him a simple and plain looking bag. He reached
inside and pulled out a picture frame. There was nothing in it. “What’s this,”
Mark asked. “Thought you might need it for the new picture,” Angel said.
“What picture,” he asked. She handed him the picture from the doctor’s office.
“Is? Is this? Is this why,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. He kissed her knocking

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her flat on the sofa. “We……I’m gonna…….really,” he said kissing her. He
forgot all about the rest of the night and they made love.
“How long have you known,” Mark asked as he wrapped his arms around her in
bed. “Since Thursday,” Angel said. “You mean since that night I saw you and
Chase at that restaurant,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. “That was the day you
found out,” Mark said. “Yeah,” Angel said. “You should have told me,” Mark
sad. “After all of this? You wonder why I left and was about to board a plane
and move,” Angel said. “You wouldn’t have really left me and not told me
would you,” Mark said. “No. Not forever. I would have told you eventually
once it sunk in,” Angel said. “And when would eventually have been? When
you were giving birth,” he asked. “I was scared okay. I wasn’t thinking straight
and the only thing I could think was how could I have a baby when this is going
on,” Angel said. “You had to know I was doing this because I love you,” Mark
said. “So the whole thing with you and your ex was because you love me,”
Angel asked. She got out of bed. She slipped on her running clothes and left the
house.
She went and sat at the cove with Goldie. “Okay. I love him. He just says the
dumbest things at the worst moments,” Angel said. “He did it because he loves
me? What the hell is that? He screwed around with her and told her to get out
because he loves me. He could have just stayed with her if that’s what he’d
wanted. He makes no freakin sense Goldie. None.” Angel slipped her runners
off and soaked her feet with the waves. She headed back a little while later. She
followed the waves. She got back to the house and he was outside. “I’m sorry,”
Mark said getting up, trying to hug her. She pushed him into the chair and
headed inside. She made herself some tea and curled up on the sofa. “You know
that’s not what I meant,” Mark said following her inside. “Were you even
thinking about what you were doing to us when you were with her,” Angel
asked. “No,” Mark said. “Well how’s this sound. Next time you decide to do
this, don’t bother talking to me again. Baby or no baby,” Angel said. “You can’t
mean that,” Mark said. “Yes I can. I would be better off. I mean it Mark. You
ever do anything like that again, I am out of here faster than you can get down
on your knees,” Angel said. “With or without you, I can take care of this baby. I
don’t need you to do it.” He sat down beside her on the sofa. “Don’t talk like
this. Please. You know I will never do that again. Never ever. Please. Don’t
make threats like this,” Mark said. “They aren’t. They are promises. You do it
again and I will disappear from your life altogether. No calls, no nothing,”
Angel said. He kissed her to quiet her. He knew how upset she was. He didn’t
want to waist a minute making it up to her.
The phone rang and distracted Mark from what he was doing. Angel grabbed it.
“Hi Angel. It’s Chase,” he said. “Hey. What’s up,” Angel asked. “You sure you

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are okay? Did you tell him,” Chase asked. “Yes,” Angel said. “You two still
okay then,” Chase asked. “For now, I guess so,” Angel said. “Call me later,”
Chase said hanging up.
“Well that’s the first time I have seen you pick up the phone in the middle of the
two of us having fun,” Mark said. “I know you are trying to make it all better
Mark, but not now okay,” Angel said. He kissed her. Angel got up and logged
onto her computer. “What are you doing,” Mark asked. “Telling my boss that I
will be at work tomorrow,” Angel said. “I thought you were working from
home now,” Mark said. “I am going in tomorrow. End of discussion,” Angel
said. She finished her email and he took her hand. “What Mark,” Angel said.
“Follow me,” he said leading her outside. They sat down in their swing and
tried to relax. Angel was stressed. It was going to take a while to get those
thoughts out of her mind. He kissed her again. “I really am sorry for all of this,”
Mark said. “Good,” Angel said. “Mind if I ask a question,” Mark said. “Go
ahead,” Angel said. “When is the baby coming,” Mark asked. “Sometime
around St. Patrick’s Day,” Angel replied. “You mean near my birthday,” Mark
asked. “Yes,” Angel said. “Have you told anyone yet,” Mark asked. “Just you
and Chase, and the doctor of course,” Angel said. Mark kissed her. “I love you,”
he said. “Don’t make me ever doubt it again okay,” Angel said. He kissed her
again and pulled her into his lap.
A few days later, Angel decided to plan a dinner with her friends to let them
know. Mark and Angel called their parents beforehand to tell them the news.
“My baby’s having a baby,” his mom said. “How far along are you Angel,” she
asked. “Almost 7 weeks,” Angel said. “We have to come out and visit. Have
you started any baby shopping yet,” she asked. “No. Decided to wait a bit,”
Angel said. “We have to plan a baby shower then. When is the baby due,” she
asked. “Around St. Patrick’s Day,” Angel said. “We have to come out,” she
replied. Angel let Mark talk to his parents and she went and called hers.
“Really? We’re going to be grandparents,” they said. “Around St. Patties Day,”
Angel said. “Oh my goodness. You must be so excited,” her mom said. “Scared,
nervous, excited, petrified. Pretty much all the emotions you can think of,”
Angel said. “How’s Mark taking it,” she asked. “He’s happy,” Angel replied.
“You sound a little upset,” her dad said. “Just frustrated is all,” Angel said. “I’ll
give you a call later. I’m going to scan a copy of the first picture and send it to
you and Mark’s parents.” “Look forward to it. We love you,” they said. “I love
you guys too,” Angel replied.
She finished preparing dinner for everyone while Mark ran out and did errands.
Around 6, everyone starting showing up and there was no sign of Mark at all.
“Come on in everyone,” Angel said. They all sat around and chatted over a glass
of wine. Angel again had ice water. “What is up with the ice water. This has

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almost been a week. What is up with you,” Alicia asked. Mark walked in the
door. “One sec,” Angel said. She walked over to him. He’d had a drink or two.
She hugged him and his shirt smelled like perfume. “Go. Change. We’ll talk
later,” Angel said. He went to kiss her and she walked away. “Where is Andy
anyway,” Angel asked. “He said he had something to do this afternoon. He
should be here any minute,” Aubrey said. The door bell rang and Angel
answered it. “Come on in Andy,” Angel said. They all sat down together. Mark
came downstairs all changed and sat with Angel. “So we have some news.
There is a reason, other than the one I gave you, for me not drinking. We are
having a baby,” Angel said. “I knew it,” Raven said. “When are you due,”
Aubrey asked. “Around mid-March,” Angel replied. “Congrats,” Rodney said.
They hugged Mark and gave Angel a kiss. “See I knew there had to be a reason
why you weren’t having a drink with us on Saturday,” Alicia said. “Didn’t want
to say anything until I had told Mark,” Angel said. “You two okay now,” Raven
asked quietly, sitting beside Angel. She gave her a look. “Ooh. Not good,” she
whispered. “Dinner is almost ready,” Angel said. She went into the kitchen and
put everything out for dinner. “I’m sorry I was late,” Mark said. “And smelling
like perfume. Great Mark. Good timing to go for round two,” Angel whispered.
“Dinner is served,” Angel said walking into the living room. They all had a nice
relaxing evening and a great dinner. Angel sat outside with the girls, Mark
talked to the guys inside.
“You look so pissed,” Raven said quietly. “Under freaking statement,” Angel
replied. “What happened,” Alicia asked. “Let’s just say I almost moved north
on all of you,” Angel said. “That bad,” Aubrey asked. “Worse,” Angel replied.
They kept their conversation quiet.
“So dude. Guess you got your wish,” Rodney said. “Definitely. I can’t believe
we are having a baby,” Mark said. “Wish you all the luck in the world man,”
Anthony said. “Thanks,” Mark said. “We have to go celebrate. Saturday night,”
Andy said. “We’ll see,” Mark replied. “Why Mark? Practicing for more,”
Rodney said. “Want to spend Saturday night with Angel. I have an idea,” Mark
said. “Look where your last one ended up,” Andy said. “Would you. You were
the one that talked me into talking to her in the first place Andy,” Mark said.
“Didn’t say screw her brains out,” Andy teased. The guys laughed. “You
always seem to get me in shit,” Mark said. “Why don’t we all go out for a
civilized night out,” Anthony said. “Sounds good,” Mark replied.
“So what happened? Is that why you disappeared from the radar for a week,”
Raven asked. “Yes. Chase came down to help me through this. He was the one
that made me take the pregnancy test in the first place,” Angel said. “No
wonder you weren’t in the mood for a night out,” Alicia said. “Still a little
unsure about the whole idea,” Angel said. “You wouldn’t really leave would

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you,” Aubrey asked. “I don’t know. I can’t say. It all depends on Mark,” Angel
said.
Mark and the guys headed outside with the ladies. “What we talking about,”
Mark asked sitting down beside Angel. She got up and sat in the patio chair.
“We were thinking about a night out, just the girls, this weekend,” Raven said.
“Really,” Andy asked. “Maybe a weekend away just the four of us,” Alicia said.
“Now that sounds good,” Aubrey said. “What do you guys think,” Raven said.
“Depends. We allowed to join you,” Rodney asked. “Nope. Just us. No guys
permitted,” Raven said. “Well then. Guess we’ll have to plan a night of our
own,” Anthony said. “Why don’t we do it in a few weeks instead. We have lots
of things to get done,” Mark said. Angel knew his real reason for suggesting it
be another weekend. After that night, she wanted to go immediately. “I guess
we could do it next weekend. Would give us the rest of this week and next week
to plan it,” Alicia said. Everyone agreed to it. They sat around and chatted a
while longer, then everyone headed home.
Angel walked upstairs, drew herself a bubble bath and locked the door. She
slipped on her ipod, lit some candles and relaxed. She was determined to have
at least an hour to herself that night. Once the water cooled, she got out and
slipped her robe on. “Have a nice bath,” Mark said laying on the bed. “Yep,”
Angel said grabbing her pillow. “Where are you going,” he asked. Angel went
downstairs and sat out on her swing. She read a little bit. “What’s wrong now,”
Mark asked. “So where were you before you were late coming home,” Angel
asked. “I went into the office to get some things done. I told some of the ladies
and guys at work,” Mark said. “And they took you out for drinks eh,” Angel
said. She went back to reading her book. “The guys took me out for a drink
okay. That’s all,” Mark said. “Fine. Next time, tell them not to take you to a
strip club then,” Angel said. He couldn’t figure out how she knew. “Are you
coming to bed,” he asked. “No,” Angel said. He sat down on the swing beside
her. “This has to stop you know. I’m not going to cheat on you,” Mark said.
“You mean not going to cheat on me again,” Angel said. “Would you stop. It’s
not going to be happening again. Next time I will call you and let you know I’ll
be late,” Mark said. “And no more strip clubs,” Angel said. “I’ll tell them if they
want to go out we are going to a regular bar okay,” Mark said. Angel kept
reading. “What are you reading,” Mark asked. “My book,” Angel said. “Come
to bed,” Mark asked. “Why,” Angel said. He picked her up and carried her
inside to bed. “Put me down Mark,” Angel said. “I’m sick of fighting with you,”
Mark said. “I’m sick of having to,” Angel replied. He put her down on the bed.
“I shouldn’t have to fight like this with you. We are supposed to be happy.”
Mark kissed her. “I love you okay. Nothing like this is going to happen again.
Stop worrying,” Mark said kissing her again. He slid her robe off and wrapped

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his arms around her. They made love, but somehow her heart wasn’t in it. Once
he’d fallen asleep, she slipped downstairs and went to sleep on the sofa.

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Chapter 20
The next morning, Angel woke up and had her orange juice on the patio. Mark
headed downstairs in the morning, finding that she hadn’t slept beside him that
night, to find her outside. “Okay. You either woke up really early, or you didn’t
sleep in our bed last night,” Mark said. Angel read her emails on her laptop. “I
missed you last night,” he said. “You didn’t even notice that I wasn’t in bed with
you. I slept downstairs with Goldie,” Angel said. “Why,” Mark asked. “Just
decided I wanted to,” Angel replied. “Are we okay,” Mark asked. “What do
you think,” Angel said. “I think yes, but something tells me you disagree,” Mark
said. “We are okay,” Angel said. “What can I do,” he asked. “It will just take
time Mark. That’s all,” Angel said sitting down on the chaise. “Can I do
anything perchance to speed that up a little,” he said sitting down beside her on
the chaise. He wrapped his arm around her. “No,” Angel said. He kissed her.
“I love you and baby,” Mark said. “You better,” Angel replied. He kissed her
again. “So. Here’s the 2 million dollar question,” Mark asked. “What,” Angel
said. “Which room you want to make into the nursery,” Mark asked. “The one
across the hall most likely,” Angel said. “Sounds good to me,” Mark replied.
The next few days, they worked from home together. Things got a little better
each day. By the time the girls weekend was planned and the day had arrived,
everything was perfect. “So, I’m not going to see you all weekend,” Mark asked.
“Girls only baby,” Angel said. “I guess we’ll have to make due without you,”
Mark said. “Behave this weekend okay,” Angel said. “One condition,” Mark
said. “What’s that,” Angel asked walking down the hall. He wrapped his arms
around her from behind and walked her towards the bedroom. He kissed her
neck and slowly unbuttoned her sweater. “I know what you are thinking Mark,”
Angel said. She turned around to face him. He kissed her passionately and they
fell onto the bed. He pulled her sweater off, then slid her skirt to the floor.
“Mark,” Angel said as he teased her into giving into him. No words were said as
they made love over and over again. She curled up next to him, then heard the
doorbell. “You don’t really have to go with them this weekend do you,” Mark
said hoping she’d say no. “Not even sure where we are all going. I promised
them,” Angel said. He hopped out of bed, pulling his jeans on as he walked
downstairs to get the door. “Well hello there,” Raven said as Mark answered the
door. “She’ll be down in a few minutes,” Mark said. “So what do the guys have
planned this weekend,” Aubrey asked. “Not sure. They said they were putting
it together,” Mark said. Angel came downstairs all ready for the night. “So
where you kidnapping Angel into going,” Mark asked. “Somewhere that will
definitely be fun,” Raven said. “Take care of my baby,” Mark said. “I will,”
Angel said. He kissed her goodbye and the girls were off. “So where are we
going anyway,” Angel asked. “You bring your passport,” Alicia asked. “Yeah.

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Still don’t understand why we need it though,” Angel said. “You will,” Aubrey
replied as the girls laughed.
About an hour later, the guys showed up at Mark’s place. “So you ready for the
boys weekend,” Rodney asked as they headed inside. “What have you guys
planned anyway,” Mark asked. “You’ll see. Who’s looking after Goldie,” Andy
asked. “My friend that took us on the boat. Why,” Mark asked. “You pack what
we told you to,” Anthony said. “Yeah. Still don’t understand why I needed my
passport,” Mark said. “You’ll see,” Andy replied as they headed off. Mark
turned on the alarm system, grabbed his cell and charger and was out the door.
“What do you mean we are going to Toronto,” Angel said as they boarded the
plane. “We’re going for a real weekend away. Long distance to call Mark now,”
Alicia said. They all took their seats and their flight left. Angel wanted to call
Mark and tell him where they were going, but she knew he was out with the
guys. “We’ll be back on Sunday,” Aubrey said. “You two better not be planning
anything naughty,” Angel said. “Oh. Was that in the rules for the weekend,”
Raven teased. “You guys,” Angel said.
The guys pulled into the airport parking and hopped out. “What are we doing
here,” Mark asked. “Getting on a plane,” Rodney said. “Where are you guys
taking me,” Mark asked. They headed inside and then headed for their gate.
“We are heading to Vegas,” Mark asked. “Found the perfect place. You said you
loved it there. Why not show us around,” Rodney said. They boarded the plane
and headed off on their flight. It was a half hour or so when they touched down.
They stepped off the plane and headed to their hotel. Mark wished Angel had
been there to see it. It would have been a perfect place for them to go. “So Mr.
Tour Guide, where to first,” Andy said.
The ladies hopped off the plane and headed to their destination. “Don’t tell me
you guys booked our rooms at the resort,” Angel said. “Why not? Don’t we
deserve pampering,” Alicia said. “Oh damn,” Angel said. “What,” Raven said.
“And you guys want to go to Chase’s work don’t you,” Angel said. “Well of
course,” Aubrey said. Angel started to laugh. “Can I at least call Chase and tell
him we are in town,” Angel asked. “No. No phone for you,” Aubrey said. They
got freshened up, then headed to dinner, then off to the bar for the evening.
The guys headed off to the casinos, then to the strip club that night. “She’s going
to kick my butt if she finds out we were in a strip club you know,” Mark said.
“Who’s going to tell,” Andy said. They sat down and relaxed a while. “We
never did get to give you a bachelor party,” Anthony said. “Don’t even go there.
We are having a freakin baby. She would totally lose it if she ever found out this
is what you guys had planned,” Mark said. “Who says the ladies didn’t plan the
same thing for Angel,” Rodney said. Mark went to get up and call her, and

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Andy grabbed his phone. “When we get back, yes. Now, no,” Andy said
turning it off and sliding it in his pocket.
“You know he’s going to freak when he finds out where we are,” Angel said.
“You never got your bachelorette party. You’re having one this weekend,”
Raven said. They walked into the bar and Chase was standing at the counter.
“No way. What the heck are you guys all doing here,” Chase asked. “Giving
Angel her much overdue bachelorette party,” Alicia said. “I see. Well, special
occasion then,” Chase said. “I’ll show you to your seats then.” The ladies
followed Chase and took their seats. “I still can’t believe you are all here,” Chase
said. He kissed Angel’s cheek. “Baby good,” Chase asked. “Very. Everything is
getting better,” Angel said. He kissed her again and headed off to get changed.
“I can’t believe you guys did this,” Angel said. “And what’s up with the
smooching there married pregnant lady,” Raven teased. “Oh stop,” Angel said.
“Next up, the man you have been waiting for……Chase,” the MC said.
Mark got back to the hotel around 2. He figured wherever Angel was, she would
definitely answer her phone. He called once, twice. No answer. “Where the hell
could she have gone,” Mark said. “I know where they were taking her. Might
want to try again in an hour or so,” Andy said. “Where were they taking her,”
Mark asked. “To see Chase,” Rodney said. “To the airport,” Mark said. “No.
You aren’t going up there,” Anthony said. “Why the hell not,” Mark asked.
“She’ll be home on Sunday. Chill,” Andy said. Mark tried one last time.
Angel’s phone rang as she headed outside and back to their hotel. “Baby, it’s
me,” Mark said. “Hey there handsome,” Angel replied. “Nice surprise from
them eh,” Mark said. “Definitely a surprise, Angel said. “I miss you,” Mark
said. “Nice. He’s away from her for freakin 12 hours and he’s missing her,”
Andy teased. “Miss you too. I had no idea we were coming up here,” Angel
said. “So what did you guys do tonight,” Mark asked hoping she wouldn’t say
the words he dreaded. “They wanted to come see Chase, so,” Angel said. “Oh. I
was afraid you would say that,” Mark said. “And I told everyone about the
baby. Crystal is so excited for us,” Angel said. “She was there with you? Nice
that you ladies got to have a night out together,” Mark said as he breathed a sigh
of relief. “Yeah. We’re just on our way back to the hotel. Chase is coming by for
a little while so we can chat,” Angel said. Mark’s nervousness came back. “I
can’t wait until you get home,” Mark said. “Me neither baby,” Angel said. “See
you Sunday,” Mark said. “Love you,” Angel replied hanging up. “They took
her into the damn lion’s den,” Mark said as he sat down. “So I guess we’re okay
to head to another bar,” Rodney said pulling Mark along with them.
The ladies had all got separate rooms, so when Chase came over, Angel had
some time alone with him. “So what are you doing up here? No call to warn me

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eh,” Chase said. “I didn’t even know where I was going until we were walking
into the gate,” Angel said. He wrapped his arms around her. “Missed you,”
Chase said. “It’s only been a couple of weeks Chase,” Angel said. “Still,” he
said. “So really, how did he react when you told him about the baby,” Chase
asked. “He was beyond freakin happy. I was the exact opposite. I am petrified
that something is going to happen and I am going to be raising this baby alone,”
Angel said. “You have me and Crystal,” Chase said. “Yeah. My friends from
Canada. Just what I need when I live in California,” Angel said. “So what did
you tell him,” Chase asked. “I told him that if anything happens again, that I
won’t hesitate to walk out and disappear from his life altogether, baby or no
baby,” Angel said. “And,” Chase asked. “He’s been sucking up ever since,”
Angel said. “He really does love you Angel,” Chase said. “I know, just
sometimes I want to throw something at him. He is so frustrating sometimes,”
Angel said. “Like I’m not? Crystal must want to kick my butt on a weekly basis.
The difference is, we love each other 100%. I couldn’t imagine life without her,”
Chase said. “Now if only I could get Mark to think like that,” Angel said.
***
By the time it came to Sunday, Angel and the girls, and Mark and the guys were
anxious to get home. Two days of partying was enough for both of them for a
while. They all headed home. Angel beat Mark home, and hopped into the
bathtub, turning on her soft music so he knew she was there.
Mark came home, and noticed music coming from the bedroom. He dropped his
bags and ran up the stairs. Angel was just stepping out of the tub. He picked
her up in his arms and kissed her. “God I missed you,” Mark said. He kissed
her again and again. He carried her to their bedroom and laid her on the bed.
“Well, nice to see you too,” Angel said. He slid her towel off and kissed her
torso. “So I guess your weekend went well,” Angel said. He kissed her again
and slid his jeans and t-shirt off. “So what did you guys do this weekend,”
Angel asked teasingly. He kissed her again and they made love. “Missed me
that much eh,” Angel teased. “More,” he replied. “So what did you guys do this
weekend,” Angel asked. “We went to Vegas. Went to the casinos and a few
other places, then headed home,” Mark replied. “Guess I can’t fault you if you
did go to a strip club could I,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “You did didn’t
you,” Angel asked. “It was totally their idea. Nothing happened I swear,” Mark
said. “You better hope not,” Angel said. “So how’s Chase,” Mark asked. “Good.
He was surprised as I was being there,” Angel said. “Miss me at all,” Mark
asked. “A little,” Angel replied. To be honest, she enjoyed the time away. “Just
a little eh,” Mark said wrapping his arms around her naked body. “Just a tiny
bit,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “Well, I think I missed you enough for
both of us,” Mark said. “You know, it was kind of nice having a girls weekend

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again,” Angel said. “Hopefully there won’t be too many of them anytime soon,”
Mark said. “Worried,” Angel asked. “Was when I found out where you guys
were going,” Mark said. “Why? Did you think Chase was going to make a move
on me,” Angel asked. “Not like you are easy to resist,” Mark said. “It’s a good
thing I use that power for good then,” Angel joked.
The next morning, Angel got up and headed into work before Mark even woke
up. She got her papers together as the day was jam packed full of meetings. By
the time she left to head home, she was grateful for her part time in the office
option. She walked in the door that night. Goldie was outside, but there was no
sign of Mark. She went into his office. No sign of him. She headed upstairs, and
still nothing. She headed downstairs and put something together for dinner.
She checked through the mail and went through the bills. There were two
entries of hotels in the area, and none that she’d ever heard of. One wasn’t too
far away. She had dinner, with still no sign of him, and headed to the hotel. “He
wouldn’t be caught dead here,” Angel said to Goldie. She went to turn around
and saw his car. “Now isn’t this interesting,” Angel said. She parked, then sat
on the hood of the car, making sure the alarm went off. When he came running
out of one of the rooms with no shirt and his jeans on, he saw her. Angel slid off
the car and got back into her car. “Let me explain,” Mark said. Angel ripped out
of the parking lot and headed home. She threw everything into her suitcase,
then threw them in the car, saying a tearful goodbye to Goldie. She left her rings
on the counter by his computer and left. She called Chase and headed to the
other side of the city towards the airport. “What time is your flight going to be,”
he said. “I haven’t even thought to make one yet,” Angel said. “I’ll call you back
with a time,” Chase said. She headed towards the airport. When she got there,
she was on the first flight to Buffalo. It was taking off in 15 minutes. She ran
through security and hopped on the flight.
Within a few hours, she was stepping off the plane. Chase was at the gate.
“Come on. Found somewhere for you to stay that he’ll never find,” Chase said.
They hopped into his truck and were gone in a flash. She called her doctor and
asked for her records to be transferred to a doctor in the area. “Please don’t say
anything to Mark,” Angel asked. “No problem. Your privacy is our main
concern,” the doctor said. She checked into her hotel then started going through
house listings. She’d saved enough to buy a house of her own. It’s all she ever
really wanted. She spent the next week or so looking at houses until she found
one she loved. It was a stone’s throw from Chase and Crystal’s place and backed
onto the lake. It was perfect. Chase came over to help her move her things in.
“You know how many times he has called me,” Chase said. “Thousands I bet. I
changed my cell number so he couldn’t call me,” Angel said. “He really is
worried about you. Can I at least tell him you are okay,” Chase asked. “Tell him
that I am fine, that you know of. I don’t want him coming up here,” Angel said.
Chase’s phone rang again. “Hi Mark…..nope. Still haven’t seen Angel….I did

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hear from her. She said to tell you that she’s fine,” Chase said. Angel nodded.
“I have no idea Mark. Really…….I don’t want to get in the middle Mark. It’s
between you and Angel……..if I hear from her I will,” Chase said hanging up.
“So what did he have to say now,” Angel asked. “He said to tell you he loves
you. That he doesn’t want you to have this baby alone,” Chase said. “He should
have thought about that before,” Angel said.
Once she finally got settled, she called her girls. “Where the hell are you,” they
asked. “Not in California. I’ll tell you that much,” Angel said. “What
happened,” Raven asked. “I really don’t want to get into it. Point is that Mark
and I are done. I’m not coming back. I just got a new position with a huge
multinational company. I don’t plan on coming back anytime soon,” Angel said.
“We have to come see you then,” Aubrey said. “No. I don’t want him knowing
at all where I am. Not even a tiny hint,” Angel said. “You really going to do this
alone,” Raven asked. “If I have to, then yes,” Angel said. “Will you keep in
touch at least,” Aubrey asked. “I’ll try,” Angel said. She hung up and went
outside to her deck and sipped her tea. “No more. No more stress, no more
bullshit, and no more Mark,” Angel said.
A few weeks later, she got an odd call. Somehow Andy had found out her
number. “You need to come back Angel,” Andy said. “Why? He losing his
freakin mind,” Angel asked. “Definitely,” Andy said. “Good. He’s the one that
screwed this whole thing up. Didn’t even last 3 months,” Angel said. “Really,
you need to come back. He’s in the hospital,” Andy said. “Why,” Angel asked.
“He had a car accident. Please,” Andy said. “How bad is he,” Angel asked.
“Let’s just say he is on anti-depressants and is still miserable. He won’t let them
give him anything for the pain,” Andy said. “How did you get this number
anyway,” Angel asked. “I am a cop. Think about it,” Andy said. Angel looked
down at her stomach. She was definitely showing. She was almost 3 months.
She knew it was the right thing to do. “Chase,” Angel asked calling him. “I’ll let
you know what time our flight is,” he replied. “You really are a god send,”
Angel said. “I know,” he replied hanging up.
A few days later, and after many pleadings from Andy, Angel showed up with
Chase. “Whatever you do, don’t leave me alone with him,” Angel asked. Chase
nodded and they headed into Mark’s room. “You came back to me. I knew you
would,” Mark said. His ribs were wrapped, his head was wrapped and his arm
was really broken. “Just wanted to make sure you were alive is all,” Angel said.
“I knew you’d be back. You do love me don’t you,” he said. “Maybe the nurse
should up your Valium Mark,” Angel said. “You know how much I missed you?
God. I love you now more than…” “Mark. I’m not coming back to you. I’m
here because Andy asked me to. He said you refused any pain medication,”
Angel said. “I deserved to hurt,” Mark said. “What happened to you anyway,”

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Angel asked. “I went out for a drive. I heard our song and next thing I knew, I
was off the highway and upside down,” Mark said. “I assume you are family,”
the nurse said coming in. “This is my wife,” Mark said. “So you are Angel.
When he was unconscious he kept calling for you. Begging you not to leave,”
the nurse said. “No big surprise there,” Angel said. “I screwed up baby. You
must still love me or you wouldn’t be here,” Mark said. “You still in pain,” the
nurse asked. “Leave me alone. The only thing that can fix this is her,” Mark
said. “Once you’ve talked some sense into him, let me know. His blood pressure
is through the roof. After what he’s been through, he needs the pain meds,” the
nurse whispered to Angel. He grabbed Angel’s arm, pulling him towards her.
“What Mark,” Angel asked. “I swear I didn’t do anything,” Mark said. “That’s
why you were shirtless and pulling your jeans up right,” Angel said. “I swear to
god I didn’t. I was changing. Honest,” Mark said. “Don’t bother lying to me
Mark. I saw the hotel bills on the credit card statement. Who else was there,”
Angel asked. “It was before we got together. She came into town,” Mark said.
“Do me a favor okay? Tell Andy to stop pestering me and stop begging me to
come back. Nobody would when this is going on,” Angel said. “Please don’t
block me out. Please. This is my baby too,” Mark said. “You should have
thought of that before Mark. It’s done,” Angel said. He pulled her to him and
kissed her with a passion she thought was long gone. “This doesn’t change
anything Mark. I’m going home. Take care of yourself. Let the doctors do what
they have to,” Angel said getting up. “Please don’t. Don’t leave,” he begged.
Angel walked towards the door fighting back tears. She opened the door.
“Please Angel. Please,” he said. She went out into the hall and leaned against
the wall, crumbling to the ground. She couldn’t fight the tears anymore.
Chase went into the room to talk to Mark. “I know you love her okay. You’ve
proven it. The fact is that screwing around on her with how many women was
not the best plan you have come up with to tell her you love her. She’s moving
on Mark. Let her go,” Chase said. “I can’t. I don’t want to live without her. I
don’t care if I am in pain forever. I can’t be without her. I’d rather die,” Mark
said. “Stop. How the hell you going to see your kid when you are six feet
under? Get things back to normal Mark. Make things right again, then talk to
her. Not like this,” Chase said. “I need to know where to find her Chase,” Mark
said. “Get in contact with me once you are all healed and back to normal. Get
some freakin help or something. Talk to someone,” Chase said. “I love her. I
can’t run after her. I can’t make her see how badly I need her,” Mark said. “She
knows. That’s why she is in the hall in tears Mark,” Chase said. He left and took
Angel to the house.
She walked in and all the memories hit her. “How did all of this go so wrong,”
Angel said. “Hey. He is your husband. He still loves you and wants you,” Mark
said. “I can’t. I can’t go back to being worried he’s going to cheat on me. How

176. 2
the hell do you get past that,” Angel said. “Crystal did. I wasn’t as dumb as
Mark, but I have twice since we actually got married. She forgave me,” Mark
said. “I can’t do this. I have a baby to think about now,” Angel said. “You really
want to raise this baby without him,” Chase asked. “No, but I don’t have a
choice,” Angel said. She went upstairs to get a few items she had left behind
when she left. He’d decorated the room across the hall into a nursery. He had
furniture and murals. Everything was perfect. Angel sat in the rocker and cried.
“See. He really wants to make this work,” Chase said. “Whose side are you on
anyway,” Angel asked. “Both. I’ve been on both sides remember? He loves
you. Tell him what he needs to do and he’ll do it,” Chase said.
Angel headed home the next morning and was quiet all the way back. She went
into her house. She realized what was missing – love. She loved her baby, but
she loved Mark too. They both needed time. Angel needed time to get over
what had happened, and Mark needed time to figure out what he wanted.
Angel got some help to handle everything, and so did Mark.
By her sixth month, Angel had decided to talk to Mark. She knew what to expect
and how to handle it. She called the house, knowing he’d be home. A female
voice answered. “I guess I must have the wrong number,” Angel said. “Angel?
It’s Katie. Mark’s sister,” she said. “Hey. Is your brother around perchance,”
Angel asked. “He is actually away on a business trip. I’ll call him and tell him to
call you. I know he’d want to hear from you,” she said. “Tell him to check his
email then,” Angel said. “Will do. How are you,” she asked. “Pregnant,” Angel
said. She hung up and emailed Mark. She sent two sonogram pictures for him
and asked him to call her.
A few weeks later, Mark called her. “Angel,” he said. “Hi,” she replied. “Are
you okay,” he asked. “No,” Angel replied. “What’s wrong? Is it the baby,” he
asked. “No. Baby is fine,” Angel said. “Then what,” he asked. She was quiet.
“I did what Chase suggested. I talked to someone. I figured me out,” Mark said.
“And,” Angel asked. “You always have been and always will be the best thing
for me. I understand if you can’t come back. I do. I just want you to know I love
you. I haven’t been with anyone else since you left. I can’t. I was just working
on me. I was missing you,” Mark said. He heard her voice start to shake.
“Where are you baby,” he asked. Angel hung up. He tried to call back and she
didn’t answer. Chase came over with Crystal that night to see Angel. She was
quiet and full of tears. “You talked to him,” Chase said. Angel nodded. “And,”
he asked. She leaned her head against the chair. “Do you want me to get him
here,” he asked. She was quiet. “You want to go back don’t you,” he asked. “I
miss my beach,” Angel said. “My cove, my swing in the gazebo. I miss taking
Goldie for a walk.” Chase motioned for Crystal to talk to her. He stepped into
the other room. “You can both get past it if you want to,” Crystal said. “I don’t

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want to have this baby without him,” Angel said. “I know,” she said hugging
Angel. “I know.”
Two more weeks passed and Angel was slowly nearing her due date. What was
worse, was that Valentine’s Day was that weekend. Angel went to her next
doctor’s appointment and got another new picture. She scanned it and emailed
it to Mark when she got home. Nothing else was in the email but the picture.
“So you up for a night out on Sunday,” Chase asked. “Not really,” Angel said.
“Come on. You have to come,” Crystal said. “Fine,” Angel replied. She tried to
get the energy up all week. By the time Sunday came, she was trying to find
excuses to get out of it. “You’re coming and that’s that,” Crystal said as they
headed off to dinner. “Right this way,” the waitress said. “I feel like a third
wheel,” Angel said. “Why,” a voice behind her said. Angel took a deep breath.
“Why,” the voice said coming closer. “It isn’t. I am hearing things,” Angel said.
Mark kneeled down beside her. “Why would you ever feel that way,” Mark
said. She gulped. He kissed her so passionately, it almost brought Crystal to
tears, let alone Chase. “What are you doing here,” Angel asked. “It’s Valentine’s
Day,” Mark said. He kissed her again. “Besides. There’s something I needed to
do today,” he said. “What’s that,” Angel said. “Didn’t notice that the restaurant
was a little empty,” Mark said. “Yeah,” Angel said. “Follow me for a minute,”
he asked holding out his hand. Angel got up and Mark and Crystal followed
them.
They walked into a room with their friends and family all seated. “What’s going
on Mark,” Angel asked. “I love you. I haven’t been able to live without you. I
want to be with you and the baby and nobody else. Anywhere you want to be, I
want to be with you. Will you remarry me,” Mark asked. Everyone was looking.
“I…..I……How the…….” Angel walked away. “I know I have screwed up. I
know I have been a bear and a half. I thought I could have everything I wanted
and not pay a price. If you say no, I can understand why. Please. Don’t say no,”
Mark said. “I….” Angel backed away and walked out of the room. She headed
down to the mezzanine. She took a deep breath. The baby kicked. Angel went
outside for air. She started feeling dizzy. “Are you okay ma’am,” the doorman
said. She was quiet. “Why don’t you come inside into the warmth,” the man
said. Angel got up and walked inside. She got herself a tea and sat down at the
fountain. Chase found her. “Are you okay,” he asked. Angel shook her head.
“Baby okay,” he asked. “Dizzy,” Angel said. He ran out and asked the valet to
get his truck. He called Crystal. “Hospital. Now.”
“Your blood pressure is a little high. You are going to have to calm down,” the
doctor said. “Is the baby okay,” Chase asked. “Well, considering that she is a
little further along than they originally thought, yep. Right on time,” the doctor
said. “You aren’t saying what I think you are,” Chase said. “She’s 3 weeks early,

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but according to the monitor, yes,” the doctor said. “She’s almost 7,” she said. “I
have to call Mark,” Chase said. Angel had tears streaming down her face.
Crystal came in. “It’s okay. We’ll do this together,” Crystal said. “Do you want
me to call him,” Chase asked. Angel nodded. By the time Mark showed up, she
was 9. “Where is she,” he asked. “Room 503,” Chase said as they ran down the
hall. “I’m here,” Mark said. He grabbed a seat and was beside her, holding her
hand. “Push,” the doctor said. They kept going and going for what felt to Angel
like forever. “The baby’s almost here. One last little push,” the doctor said. The
next sound was of the baby crying. “It’s a girl,” the doctor said. Both Mark and
Angel were crying. Chase and Crystal were hugging. They cleaned the baby off
and brought her to Angel. “Perfect as perfect can be. So what did you decide to
name her,” the doctor asked. “Lila Emily,” Angel said. “Perfect,” Mark replied.
Crystal and Chase snapped a few pictures, then headed into the hall. “You never
answered me you know,” Mark said gazing at the baby. “I can’t even think
about that right now,” Angel said. “There’s a few people in the hall that wanted
to say congrats if that’s okay,” Chase said peeking his head in the door. “Please
give me a chance,” Mark said. There was silence. “Chase, give us a couple of
minutes,” Angel said.
“I don’t think I can go through this again Mark. All the stress, the drama…it was
too much. Especially being pregnant. Now that Miss Lila is here, I don’t want
her to see the stress. It’s going to be hard enough to get sleep let alone going
through all of the drama we have had,” Angel said. “I talked to someone and
straightened myself out. I swear. Since you left, all I have done is work, put
together a room for Lila and hope you would take me back. I haven’t even
looked at another woman,” Mark said. “You’ve said that before,” Angel said.
Lila started to cry. The nurse came around. “She’s hungry. Did you want to
try,” she asked. Angel nodded and tried feeding the baby. “Guess you were
right,” Angel said as the baby gobbled whatever she got. “Please,” Mark said. “I
don’t know. I was all ready to do this myself,” Angel said. “You don’t need to.
Please,” Mark said. “Any sign of drama,” Angel said. “You can have me
committed if there is,” Mark said. “I want to keep the house here. Maybe rent it
or use it as a vacation house or something,” Angel said. “Anything,” Mark
replied. Angel switched sides. “It would be easier with both of us there,” Angel
said. He stared into Angel’s eyes. She nodded. He kissed her hard. Lila started
to fall asleep. Angel burped her, then Lila fell asleep in her arms. Mark kissed
her again. “Happy Valentine’s Day Angel,” Mark said. “Happy birthday Lila,”
they both said.
Chase peeked his head in. “You two okay,” Chase asked. Mark was on the bed
with Angel in his arms, and Lila in hers. Mark nodded. “Visitors,” Chase asked.
Angel nodded. Her parents and his came in first. “What a beautiful little girl,”
his mom said. “Has her dad’s nose,” her mom said. “And she’s as beautiful as

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her mom,” Mark said. “Sleeping like an angel,” his dad said. She handed Lila to
her mom to hold. “Looking good Grandma,” Angel said. “What did you two
decide to name her,” his mom asked. “Lila Evelyn,” Mark said. “She is
beautiful,” Angel’s dad said kissing his daughter’s cheek. That night was filled
with short visits from all her friends and family. They all wanted a peek at Lila.
The next day or two were a blur for Angel. “She may be a little difficult to fly
with,” the doctor said. “We’ll stay here until we are ready to head back,” Mark
said. “Well she is just perfect. She’s eating well and she looks great. You’d
never know you two were first time parents,” the doctor said. “I’ll transfer her
records to your doctor in California.” “Thank you so much for everything,”
Angel said. “No problem. I am here if you need anything before you head
home,” the doctor replied.
They headed back to the house with Lila and put her down for her nap. “I really
can’t wait to get you home,” Mark said. “I am home Mark. This feels like
home,” Angel said. They sat down and relaxed a while before Lila woke up. “I
missed you,” Mark said. “I missed you too. Just didn’t really miss all the
drama,” Angel said. “I promise. No more of that. No more bar, no more stupid
clubs with the guys. Just you and me,” Mark said. “And Lila,” Angel said.
“Definitely,” Mark replied. “You know her eyes are so blue, they are like looking
in the ocean.” “She will definitely be a heartbreaker when she grows up,” Angel
said. “Just like her parents,” Mark said.

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Chapter 21
They came back to California with Lila the following week. Everything was
perfect. “Was someone here looking after things,” Angel asked. “A friend of
mine came by when I told him we were heading back. He found a maid to help
clean up before we got home,” Mark said. Goldie snuck into the house and
wanted a look at the new baby. “And you trained her,” Angel said. “Was
hoping you’d be back. I didn’t want anything to go wrong,” Mark said. “Let’s
put her in her room.” They headed upstairs to Lila’s room. He’d refinished
everything. It was all perfect, and the room smelled of baby powder. He’d
bought her a rocking chair for those nights with the baby. Angel placed her into
the crib, and quietly came into the hall. “The room is beautiful,” Angel said.
“Really, I was hoping you’d come back with her. This is what I did the entire
time you were gone. I wanted to make everything perfect,” Mark said. “You
definitely did. She loves it,” Angel said as they headed downstairs. “I really am
glad you are home,” Mark said. He wrapped his arms around Angel. She was
still keeping him at arms length until she knew that he would be true to her.
A few weeks after they got home, Angel called into her old work. “We’d love to
have you back. We can even arrange it so you are working from home every
day,” her boss said. “Sounds perfect,” Angel said. “I’ll drop the contract by
later. I would love to see that little bundle of love,” her boss said. “Sounds
great,” Angel said hanging up. “So……what do you want to do tonight,” Mark
asked. “Sleep,” Angel replied. She hadn’t slept one night in their bed with
Mark. She’d set up camp in the bedroom next to Lila’s. “Why don’t I make us
dinner tonight and we can have one of those Truth Friday nights,” Mark
suggested. “Sure,” Angel said nodding off.
A few hours later, she woke up to Lila cooing at Mark. “I guess the princess is
awake,” Angel said. “Definitely,” Mark said. Angel fed the baby, then Mark
took care of her. “How long was I asleep,” Angel asked. “A few hours. It’s
okay. You need your rest,” Mark said. Lila started to fall asleep again and Mark
took her back upstairs to bed. When he came down, Angel was setting her
laptop back up. “Dinner is almost ready,” Mark said. “And what, might I ask, is
the specialty tonight,” Angel said. “Your favorite – Mango Chicken,” Mark said.
Angel laughed. He brought dinner over to Angel, and they relaxed and had
dinner. “Thanks Mark,” Angel said. “So….question one,” Mark said. “Shoot,”
Angel said as they started doing dishes. “Were you with anyone else while you
were gone,” Mark asked. “Other than hanging out with Chase and Crystal, no,”
Angel said. “Who was the woman?” Mark’s heart started to race. “An old
girlfriend. Really, I hadn’t seen her in years. We kissed and started something,
but nothing happened. I couldn’t. That’s why I was coming out putting my shirt
on,” Mark said. Angel took a deep breath. “Have you been with Chase since

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that night at the bar?” “Other than talking, or him trying to make me feel better,
or taking me to my doctor appointments, no,” Angel said. She wasn’t about to
tell him. She definitely had an attraction to Chase. It was undeniable. There was
chemistry there and they both knew it. “How many times did you cheat,” Angel
said. She almost didn’t want to hear the answer. “Three times,” Mark said. The
glass slipped from Angel’s hand and hit the tile. “I’ll clean it up,” Mark said as
he pulled out the vacuum. “Who was the third,” Angel asked. “It doesn’t matter
now. We are starting over,” Mark said. “Who,” Angel said. “It was a while
ago,” Mark said. She went quiet. “Her name was Anna.” “And,” Angel asked.
“Met her when I had to make a house call for a computer,” Mark said. “One of
those days where you were late coming home no doubt,” Angel said. She
walked out of the kitchen. “Why won’t you sleep in our bed with me,” Mark
asked. “Think about it Mark. After what you just told me,” Angel said. “Okay.
There’s something I am going to do tomorrow to prove to you that I have
changed,” Mark said. “Such as,” Angel asked. “Someone I want you to meet.
As a matter of fact, I will call her tonight,” Mark said. “Great. Another woman I
don’t know about,” Angel said. He went into the other room and made a call
then came and sat down on the sofa with Angel. “She’ll be here in a few
minutes,” Mark said.
Angel went and checked on Lila then headed back downstairs when she heard
the doorbell. “Andrea, this is Angel,” he said. The woman carried a clipboard
with her. “Nice to finally meet you. I have heard so much about you,” Andrea
said. She was definitely a book smarts type person. The question Angel wanted
to know – who was this woman? “I bet you are wondering how I know Mark.
He came to me after his accident and said he needed some help. He said he
wanted to change and be a good husband and father, but he had screwed up so
badly, he had to fix what he’d done,” she said. “That’s an understatement and a
half,” Angel said. “I’m a therapist,” she said. “So you know about the three
women he messed around on me with do you,” Angel said. “I know that and
more. That’s why he seems so different to you. We talked everything through
and he figured out why he was doing these things. That’s why it’s all stopped,”
Andrea said. Mark sat down beside Angel. “How can you know that? You
don’t have him under 24 hour surveillance,” Angel said. “I don’t need to. He’s
told me everything,” she said. “So my question is why. Why did he do it? He
tells me every day that he loves me and wants to be with me. Why would he
cheat on me and jeopardize us,” Angel asked. “I figured out that I was feeling
inadequate. That I thought I couldn’t make you happy. I thought that
sabotaging everything would be my way out. Until you left, I didn’t know how
wrong I was,” Mark said.
“And you figured cheating on me and lying about it was the right thing? Who
are you? What brain were you thinking with Mark,” Angel said walking into the

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kitchen. “I wanted to see that look on your face like you had when we were first
together. I wanted to see you happy even if it meant seeing you be happy with
someone else. I was wrong. I realized that when I lost you, I lost my friend. I
lost the one reason I had for waking up every morning. I lost the woman I loved
more than I love myself,” Mark said. “Funny way of showing it,” Angel said
from the kitchen. “He was worried he couldn’t be what you wanted, so he tried
to give it to someone else that he barely knew. When he didn’t succeed, and you
walked out on him, he had his accident then asked his friend Andy to find
someone to help him fix things,” Andrea said. “So Andy did this,” Angel said.
“He helped me find someone. That’s all,” Mark said. “So why didn’t you think
of this before,” Angel said. “Like sometime before we got married?” “I didn’t
think anything would go wrong. I was tempted. I gave into it. Ever since, I
have literally been at home. I told the guys to count me out of the clubs and the
bars. That I wanted to fix things with you even if it meant being at home
forever,” Mark said. “So you are avoiding temptation,” Angel said. “What
happens when we do go out and some woman hits on you? Now you know why
I won’t sleep with you again,” Angel said. “We’ve tested that theory. He’s not
tempted anymore. All he does is talk about you. He wears his ring with pride,”
Andrea said. “And when he’s alone? How can I trust that he won’t,” Angel said.
Angel went upstairs. Lila had woken up and she rocked her back to sleep in the
chair. “If only life were as simple as it is for you,” Angel said. Mark came
upstairs and found Angel in tears with Lila in her arms. “You have to trust me,”
Mark said quietly so he didn’t wake Lila. Angel put her down and went into the
hall. “How do I after this,” Angel said. “Take a chance,” Mark replied. “I
already did that once. I ended up in a house by the lake that was 5 minutes from
Chase and Crystal,” Angel said. “You trust me with Lila right,” Mark said.
“Yes. The fact is, she’s a baby. Not much you can do to screw that up,” Angel
said. “One last chance. Please,” Mark said. “It takes time to trust you again
okay,” Angel said. “Please,” Mark said. He kissed her and leaned her against
the wall. “I’m not saying the passion isn’t still there, I am saying that I can’t trust
you Mark,” Angel said. “What do I have to do to prove it,” Mark said. “I’ll
think of something,” Angel said as she walked into her room.
Angel had made phone calls that night. She came up with an idea, but refused to
tell Mark what it was. His friends had called to take him out for a guys night.
“Not sure where we are going, but I won’t be late. I promise,” Mark said.
Angel’s plan was in action. She knew where they were going. She sent a friend
that Mark didn’t know to test him. She had no other way of knowing. She
prayed that he wouldn’t take the bait.
Mark left just as Angel was putting Lila to bed. “You sure you don’t want me to
stay here tonight,” Mark asked. “You go have a good night. I’m just going to

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relax outside anyway. Have fun,” Angel said. He walked towards her and
kissed her. “I miss you,” Mark said. “I know. Go and have a fun night. I’ll be
here when you get back,” Angel said. He kissed her again. She really did love
him, but her one question was still unanswered – what would he do with the
temptation?
Mark headed off with the guys. “Civilized night out. No strip clubs okay,”
Mark said hopping into the car with Andy, Rodney and Anthony. “No problem
bro. We are heading to the Purple Rose,” Andy said. “Sounds good, but we
can’t stay too late. I have a kid to think about now,” Mark said. “We know
daddy,” Rodney teased. They pulled into the parking lot and headed inside. It
was definitely civilized. The place was crawling with beautiful women. “Now
this is what I call a night out,” Anthony said. They sat down and ordered a
round of drinks. By the time they were on round 3, a woman was flirting with
Mark from across the bar. “Dang Mark. How come you always get the hottest
chick in the room,” Rodney whispered. “Just thought I would come over and
say hi,” the woman said. “Well hello there,” Mark replied. “I’m Amber,” she
said. Mark kissed her hand. “Mark Scott,” Mark replied. “Nice to meet you
Mark,” Amber said. They chatted a while, then the music came on. She talked
him into a dance. “So Mark, what do you do,” Amber asked. “Computer tech.
What about you,” he asked. “Model,” she replied. “No wonder you are so
beautiful,” Mark said. “Well thank you,” she replied. “So Mark, can I ask you a
question,” she asked. “Sure,” he replied. “What are you doing having a guys
night on a Saturday? Isn’t that normally a date night,” she asked. “No, not
really. We felt like a guys night,” Mark said. “So I take it that you are single,”
she asked. “So have I seen you in any magazines,” Mark asked. He dodged the
question. She looked and his ring was on his right hand. “Probably, if you’ve
seen Victoria’s Secret,” she replied. She tried to get closer to him. “So Mark….I
know it’s not normally something a woman would ask, but……..wanna get out
of here for a while,” she asked. “And do what,” Mark asked. “I’m sure we can
think of something to pass the time,” she whispered. She kissed him. “We’re
actually heading home soon,” Mark said. “Walk me to my car then,” she
whispered. “Meet you at the door,” Mark said walking back to his friends. “Be
back in a bit. Just walking Amber to her car,” Mark said. Andy saw the faint
lipstick on him. “Okay,” Andy said.
“It really was nice meeting you Mark,” Amber said. “Where is your car,” Mark
asked. “Back corner under the tree,” she replied. It was a strategic parking spot.
“So, you never answered me Mark,” Amber said. “About what,” he replied.
“Are you taken or do I get to take you home,” Amber said. They got to her car
and she leaned against it. “Not going to be able to go home with you. Sorry,”
Mark said. “Then I guess we’ll have to make the most of the rest of the evening,”
she said pulling him close to her. He kissed her once, then it turned into making

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out. She hopped onto the hood of the car and pulled him close as the slit of her
dress revealed her legs. She wrapped one around him pulling him closer. “I
can’t do this,” he said stopping himself. “I really have to get going,” Mark said
backing off. “Can I call you sometime,” she asked. “Amber, you really are a
sexy lady, but I have a new baby at home. I have to get home,” Mark said.
“Oh,” she replied. “Why don’t I give you my number then?” She wrote it down
and handed it to him. “Call me tomorrow,” she asked. He kissed her then
headed for the door. He went back into the club. “Guys, we are out of here. I
have to get home,” Mark said. “Might want to rub the lipstick off Mark,”
Anthony said. Mark did just that and they all headed back to the house.
“Hi Angel. It’s Amber,” she said. “So what happened,” Angel asked. “Danced
with him. Asked him if he was taken and he dodged. Got him to walk me to my
car. We kissed and were making out a bit, then he said he had to get home to his
new baby,” Amber said. “Great,” Angel said disappointed. “He has my number
on him. Check,” Amber said. “Thanks again. I am so sorry I had to drag you
into this,” Angel said. They hung up and she headed upstairs into the shower.
A kiss wasn’t as bad as actually having sex with someone else. Still, the fact that
he didn’t say he was married was upsetting. Angel turned on the shower as she
heard a door slam outside. The hot water felt good on her skin. She’d been told
by the doctor that they had the green light to be ‘intimate’ if they wanted to.
Angel decided one more week in the other bedroom couldn’t hurt. She heard the
bathroom door open. She ignored it and continued her shower. He slid in
behind her. His arms wrapped around her. “Missed you,” Mark said. “Thought
you guys were having a boys night,” Angel said. “Wanted to come home,” Mark
said. He kissed her neck, then her shoulders, sliding his hands up her torso.
Angel rinsed her hair off, and went to step out of the shower. “Where are you
going,” he said kissing her and pulling her close to him. “To bed,” Angel said.
He kissed her. She stepped out of the shower, wrapping her towel around her
and heading to her bedroom. She grabbed the baby monitor and headed into her
room.
Angel slipped in to check on Lila before she headed to bed. She was sleeping
soundly. “She’s almost as beautiful as her mom,” Mark said quietly sneaking up
behind Angel and slipping his arms around her. Angel turned and headed back
to her room, quietly closing the door behind her. “Come to bed with me,” Mark
said. “No,” Angel said walking towards her room. He kissed her pinning her
against the wall. “I want you so bad,” Mark said in between kisses. “Mark,”
Angel said. He kissed her again to silence her. He picked her up, wrapping her
legs around him and heading towards their bed. He pulled his towel and hers
off, dropping them to the floor. He kissed her chest, her stomach, all the way
down her torso. “Stop,” Angel said. He kept going then kissed her again and
made love to her. After, he wrapped his arms around her and held her close to

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him. “God I missed this,” Mark said. Angel was still quiet. “I love you baby,”
Mark said. “Love you too,” Angel said quietly. Once he’d fallen asleep, Angel
slipped out of bed, grabbed her robe and went in to check on Lila again. She
woke up and wanted food. Angel fed her quietly, then rocked her back to sleep.
“I love you baby. You are such a sweetheart. Daddy loves you too. At least you
never have to doubt that,” Angel said quietly. She slipped her back into her crib
and headed to bed in her room.
The next morning, Mark woke up alone. He got up and cleaned up, then headed
into Lila’s room. She wasn’t in her crib. Mark went downstairs, and found
Angel outside on the patio with Lila. “Well good morning,” Mark said.
“Morning,” Angel said. He leaned down to kiss her and she turned her cheek.
“Breakfast,” Mark asked. “Already ate. We are going to head out for a run,”
Angel said. Mark noticed she was already dressed for her run. “Want some
company,” he asked. “Already have it,” Angel said getting up and putting Lila
into the carriage. She started to get fussy. “Why don’t I stay here with Lila? We
can have some daddy-daughter time,” Mark said. “Okay,” Angel said. She put
on her sunscreen as Mark took care of Lila. “See you in an hour or so,” Angel
said. She put her ipod in, and headed for the beach. She had to clear her mind.
He didn’t cheat. He kissed her. That was enough. He did stop. Why was she
getting all mad? She finished her run and came back to the house. When she
walked in, Mark was in the kitchen with Lila. “You think mommy will like what
we did,” Mark said. “Depends,” Angel said. “Welcome back. How was your
run,” Mark said kissing Angel. “Fine. Had to clear my head a bit,” Angel said.
“Missed you this morning,” Mark said. “Lila needed me, so I headed back to my
room,” Angel replied.
The day was a little tense, in between feedings, Angel napped on the sofa. Mark
got a little work done. He came up with a great idea. “Can I get a reservation for
two tonight,” he asked the waiter on the phone. “No problem. Best table in the
house sir,” the waiter said. Mark called Raven and Rodney. “We’ll be there
around 5 to babysit,” Raven said. Mark went into the other room and Lila was in
Angel’s arms. “Have a great idea for tonight if you are interested,” Mark said.
“What’s that,” Angel said. “Rodney and Raven are coming to babysit. Throw on
a dress. I’m taking you out for dinner,” Mark said. “But,” Angel said. “They
will be fine with her. We’ll only be gone a few hours,” Mark said. “That okay
with you Lila,” Angel said as Lila cracked a smile. “I take that as a yes,” Mark
said picking Lila out of Angel’s arms. “You go get ready. I’ll look after the
princess,” Mark said. Angel got up and headed upstairs to change. When she
came downstairs, Mark was on the sofa watching TV with Lila asleep on his
chest. Angel grabbed her camera and snapped a shot or five. There was a quiet
knock at the door. “Hey. So where is the princess,” Raven said hugging Angel.
Angel pointed to the sofa where Mark and Lila were curled up together.

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“Awww,” Raven said as Rodney came inside. “Thanks again for this,” Angel
said. “Figured we should get to know her anyway,” Raven said. Mark quietly
and slowly got up and took Lila to her bed. Angel went through her emergency
number list and handed over the baby monitor. “Milk is in the fridge. Just
warm up the milk for 2 minutes on min in the microwave, then check it. If it’s
too hot, put it in a cool water bath to cool it a bit,” Angel said. “We’ll be fine.
Enjoy your dinner,” Raven said.
They headed out the door after Angel checked on Lila one last time. “Ready,”
Mark said. “Where are we going anyway,” Angel said. “Rose Marie,” Mark
said. “That place is impossible to get into,” Angel said. “Not so for me,” Mark
replied. “You look beautiful tonight.” “Thanks,” Angel said. They went into the
restaurant and were seated at the best table in the house. “This place is
beautiful,” Angel said. The waiter came over with a box. “Delivery for you
ma’am,” the waiter said. Angel opened the box and found her favorite roses.
“Mark, you are too much you know,” Angel said. “I never got to take my
sweetheart out for Valentine’s Day. What can I say,” he said endearingly. Angel
kissed him to say thank you. “Compliments of the owner,” the waiter said
bringing Champagne over to them. “May I take your dinner order?” Angel and
Mark ordered their dinner then sipped on their Champagne. “You really do go
all out don’t you,” Angel said. “For you? I’d walk on water if I could,” Mark
said. They relaxed and chatted and had their dinner. “I missed this,” Mark said.
“I guess I did too,” Angel replied. “So what else do you want to do tonight,” he
asked. “Other than sleep you mean? Hmmm,” Angel said. “You thinking what
I am thinking,” he whispered. “Going for a walk on the beach just you and me,”
Angel said. “We could do that too,” Mark said. They brought over the bill and
they headed home.
They parked by the beach and went for a short walk. They headed for the cove.
“So are we okay,” Mark asked. “Getting there,” Angel said. “Can I ask an odd
question,” Mark asked. “Shoot,” Angel said. “Now that you know I changed,
why don’t you trust me,” he asked. “Because I don’t know that you did. I don’t
see it. I didn’t see it before and now I am looking at everything with a
magnifying glass,” Angel said. “You still don’t think you can trust me,” he
asked. “Okay. Moment of truth then,” Angel said. “100%,” Mark said. “Did
anything happen while you were out?” Angel knew the truth. The question was,
would he admit to it.
“We went to Purple Rose. Was a relaxed sort of bar. This girl named Amber hit
on me. We danced, then she asked me to walk her to her car and tried to make a
move on me. I told her I had a new baby at home and really had to leave, then I
came home to you,” Mark said. “Anything else,” Angel asked. “She gave me
her number but I tossed it at the bar,” Mark replied. “So she didn’t kiss you or

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anything,” Angel asked. “Why,” Mark asked. “You promised Mark. 100%
truth,” Angel said. “Yeah. She tried to talk me into sleeping with her, and I
dodged it and left. She kissed me and I realized that the only person I want to
kiss is you. It just wasn’t the same. You are the best kisser I know. I couldn’t,”
Mark said. “Now a question for you. Actually, two questions. One – were you
with Chase other than at that bar?” “Kissing and goofing around yes. Sex, no,”
Angel said. “Okay. Number two, did you really think I would cheat on you
again? After I worked so hard, why would I risk losing you all over again for
one stupid night,” Mark said. “I wanted to know if the temptation was there.
That’s all,” Angel asked. “There was, but I pictured you with Lila. How happy
you were before all of this. I pictured you curled up in a beach chair with Lila in
your arms. I realized I didn’t want to ever risk losing both of you. There was no
contest,” Mark said. “I love you so much it scares me. It terrifies and thrills me
at the same time. I’ve never loved anyone this much.” He kissed Angel and
pulled her into his arms. She gave in just a little. Maybe she could trust him
after all. He held her in his arms for a while. “I missed feeling close to you,”
Mark said. He looked into Angel’s eyes and saw tears. “What are those for,” he
asked. “Don’t ever make me doubt you again okay,” Angel said. “I will try
baby. I may not be perfect, but I am yours for as long as you will have me,”
Mark said. She wrapped her arms around him and kissed him. “Can I take you
home,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. He kissed her again and they headed home.
When they got home, Raven was curled up on the sofa with Lila and Rodney
was curled up in the chair. Rodney woke up when he heard the door. “We got
her to sleep a while ago. She tired us both out,” Rodney said. Angel looked and
Lila’s eyes were opening up. She was due for a feeding. Angel took her upstairs
after a quick thanks to Rodney, then Raven woke up. “Where,” Raven asked.
“Upstairs having her midnight snack,” Mark joked. “Thanks so much you two.
We really needed this,” Mark said as he put Angel’s roses in water. “Everything
better,” Raven asked. “Better than I had hoped,” Mark said. He gave Raven and
Rodney a hug and walked them out. “Thanks again you two,” Mark said.
“Anytime,” Raven said.

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Chapter 22
Mark headed upstairs. Angel was just changing Lila, then put her back into bed.
“You are just so spoiled aren’t you,” Angel said. Lila cooed. She yawned a little
and quietly calmed down. Mark came up behind Angel and wrapped his arms
around her waist. “We make beautiful babies don’t we,” Mark said. “She is
adorable,” Angel replied. Mark kissed her neck. “Come to bed,” Mark said
quietly. Angel turned and kissed him. She went into her room. Mark went into
their bedroom and begrudgingly got ready for bed. “Another night alone,” he
thought to himself. He slid under the covers and turned out the light. He was
just about to fall asleep when he felt a warm hand wrap around him. He said a
silent prayer and rolled over. Angel was beside him in black satin lingerie.
“Thought I was dreaming for a minute there,” Mark said. He kissed her.
“Definitely not a dream.” He kissed her again as he wrapped his arms tight
around her. “God I missed you,” Mark said kissing her from the top of her head
to her toes. He slid her lingerie off, dropping it to the floor. They made love
slowly and tenderly. He cherished every moment. He didn’t know when he
would get this chance again. The passion lit a fire in both of their hearts. The
intensity was amazing.
After, she laid her head on his shoulder and wrapped her arm over him. “I
missed this so much,” Mark said. Their hearts were racing in time. “I don’t ever
want to lose this,” Mark said. “Lose what,” Angel asked. “I don’t ever want to
lose you. I don’t ever want to be without you. Promise me you’ll never go
again,” Mark asked. “You know what the rules are Mark. As long as neither one
of us break them, I will stay. If it happens again,” Angel said. He kissed her
again. “Never. Don’t even think it,” he said. Angel went to slip back out of bed.
“Where are you going,” he whispered grabbing her hand. “To sleep,” Angel
said. “Not in there you’re not,” Mark said pulling her back to bed. “Let me at
least get the monitor then,” Angel said. She slipped into the other room, pulling
her robe on as she opened the door. She grabbed the monitor and checked on
Lila. She was out cold. Angel headed back into the bedroom. She turned to
hang up her robe and Mark closed the door, leaning her against it. “What might
I do for you,” Angel asked. He kissed her hard. He picked her up in his arms,
wrapping her legs around him. He walked into the bathroom and into the hot
shower. The steam was already filling the room. He pinned her against the
shower wall. “Missed me,” Angel asked in between kisses as she came up for
air. He kissed her again with an intensity and passion she hadn’t felt for so long.
“I want you so badly,” he said as they started to have sex. Angel was so quiet.
He kissed her hard again as the warm water beaded on her skin. Her feet
slipped to the ground once they finished. “Didn’t you miss this,” Mark asked.
Angel turned off the water and kissed him. “I take it that’s a yes,” he said as
they headed back to bed. “Stay in here with me tonight,” Mark asked. Angel

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slipped her lingerie back on and slipped into bed. Mark curled up next to her
with his arms around her torso. “I love you baby,” Mark said. “Love you too,”
Angel said as she closed her eyes.
The next morning, Angel woke up and Mark was gone. She looked at the time.
She jumped out of bed and went in to check on Lila. She wasn’t in bed. Angel
slipped her shorts and tank on and went downstairs. Mark was asleep on the
sofa, and Lila was fast asleep on his chest. She took a picture or two, then made
some coffee. Mark woke up and took Lila upstairs to her crib. When he came
back down, his coffee was on the table. Angel was going through her papers on
the sofa. “Slept well,” Mark asked. “Guess I was tired,” Angel said. He kissed
her, and sat down beside her, wrapping his arms around Angel. “She was a little
fussy last night and I didn’t want to wake you,” Mark said. He kissed her again.
“Have your coffee,” Angel said. He kissed her again and tried to get her to curl
up with him. “I have to get through these contracts,” Angel said. “It’s
Saturday,” he replied wrapping his legs around hers and pulling her to him. He
kissed her again. “Give me 30 minutes,” Angel said. “Nope. Mine. It’s
Saturday. Day of bed rest only,” Mark said. “30 minutes, then I am all yours for
the day. I promise,” Angel said as he kissed her. “Okay, but then computer and
phones are off deal,” he said. Angel nodded and kissed him. She went back to
her papers. He started making breakfast for them. Once she was almost
finished, they sat down for breakfast. Lila started to cry. “I’ll get her,” Angel
said.
She headed upstairs to Lila’s room, fed her, changed her, then brought her
downstairs. “Guess she was hungry for breakfast too,” Angel said. She sat down
and had breakfast while holding Lila. “Let me take her. You eat,” Mark said.
He took Lila to her mat and sat with her a bit. “She is so spoiled,” Angel said.
“That she definitely is,” Mark said. Angel finished her breakfast then did the
dishes. Lila was smiling away. “Hello Sunshine,” Angel said as she walked over
to Lila. Mark kissed her. “I’ll go get dressed. What do you think of a day on the
beach for Miss Lila,” Mark asked. “Good plan,” Angel said. “Isn’t that right
sweetheart,” Angel said as Lila looked at her and smiled.
When Mark came back down, Angel and Lila were playing together on the floor.
He took a few pictures, then they headed to the beach. By the time they got
home, they were all starved. “Chinese,” Mark suggested. Sounds good to me,”
she replied. Angel took Lila upstairs and fed and changed her. She brought her
back downstairs and they all played while they waited for dinner. When Lila
started to yawn, they all curled up on the sofa together and watched some TV.
Once Lila was out cold, Angel snuck her back upstairs to bed and then came
downstairs. She sat down on the sofa, then Mark pulled her to him. “And just
what do you want,” Angel said teasingly. “Do I have to say it,” he replied

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kissing her and leaning her onto the sofa. “Mark,” Angel said. “Yes beautiful,”
he replied as he unzipped her jacket. “Stop,” Angel said. “What,” he replied as
he leaned towards her. “Can we not just sit here and not do that,” Angel asked.
“Why? What’s wrong,” Mark asked. “Just stop. Can we not just sit here and
relax together?” Mark got a sick feeling in his stomach. “What’s wrong,” he
asked. “I just am not in the mood for this tonight,” Angel said as he backed up.
Angel got up and grabbed her jacket. “What did I do,” Mark asked. “Things
aren’t perfect you know,” Angel said. “Don’t walk away. Talk,” Mark asked
grabbing her hand. She walked past him and went upstairs. By the time Mark
headed up behind her, she had pulled on her warmer tracksuit and was headed
out for a run. “Where are you going,” Mark asked. “I need to breathe,” Angel
said as she grabbed Goldie’s leash and headed out the door with Goldie.
She headed straight for the beach. She got to the cove and stopped. Goldie
played in the water. She couldn’t understand why the tears were coming. “Why
are you crying,” a voice said from behind her. She turned and saw Mark.
“Who’s looking after Lila,” Angel asked. “Aubrey. She called a minute after you
left,” Mark said. “Back to my question. Why are you crying?” “We’re rushing it
again. We rushed it. I want us to take our time Mark. Why can’t you
understand that,” Angel said. “I assumed since you came back to bed,” Mark
said. “You assumed wrong. I just wanted to feel your arms around me,” Angel
said. “You missed being close to me instead of pushing me away,” Mark said. “I
can’t keep that wall there. I know that, but just because we had a good night
doesn’t mean,” Angel said. Mark kissed her to quiet her fears. He wrapped his
arms around her and they looked out at the water. “I’m here for whatever you
need. Just don’t push me away,” Mark said. “I just need time to breathe. Just
because we are back in the same house doesn’t mean that I am ready to be back
to normal okay,” Angel said getting up and walking down the beach more.
Mark went home and gave her the time she wanted. A few hours later, she
finally came back. Her eyes were puffy from tears and she sat down outside.
Mark came out with a blanket and wrapped them up together. “I’m scared
Mark,” Angel said. “Why,” he asked. “I’m scared that I am going to be back to
the way it was before and it will happen again,” Angel said. “It won’t,” he
replied. “You don’t have a crystal ball Mark,” Angel said. “I don’t need one. It’s
not ever going to happen again. Stop worrying,” Mark said. “What if it does?
Then what,” Angel said. He kissed her. “I love you. I love every inch of you. I
don’t want to be with anyone else. You are the only one I love. There’s no
reason to be worried,” he said. “Then why am I still petrified that I am going to
have to go through all this again,” Angel said. “Just put your head on my
shoulder and relax,” Mark said as they curled up together.
The next morning, Angel woke up to the sounds of Lila waking up. Angel
slipped out from under the blankets with Mark and headed into her bedroom.

191. 2
“Morning baby,” Angel said. Lila smiled. “Breakfast,” Angel asked. She fed
Lila and curled up with her downstairs on the sofa. When Mark woke up, he
headed downstairs and found them. They were both out cold. He smiled and
took Goldie for a walk. When he came back, they had just woken up. “Well
what do you know. They both woke up,” Mark said to Goldie. Lila smiled at
her mom and they played a while. “Why doesn’t daddy come and play with you
while I grab something to wake me up,” Angel said as Mark came towards her.
He kissed her. “Good morning to you too,” Mark said. Angel grabbed some
orange juice and headed upstairs for a shower. When she came back down,
Mark was playing outside with Lila. “So what are we doing today,” Angel
asked. “We are going out. Alicia called while you were in the shower. She
wants to come by with Anthony. They volunteered to look after the princess,”
Mark said. “And where might we be going,” Angel asked. “You’ll see,” Mark
replied. “Something in Lila’s room for you. Put it on and come down.”
Angel got changed then, after going through her emergency info for Alicia, she
headed out with Mark. “Where are you taking me,” Angel asked. Mark drove
for a little while, then pulled into a parking lot. “Where are we,” Angel asked.
“Follow me,” Mark said. They headed towards a white church, surrounded by
roses. He took her hand in his. “What are we doing here,” Angel asked. When
they went in, Chase and Crystal, Alicia and Anthony, Raven and Rodney and
Aubrey and Andy were there. “What’s going on,” Angel asked. Lila was
giggling. “Something I think we both needed to do,” Mark said. He handed her
a bouquet of roses. “What’s going on Mark,” Angel whispered. “Renewing
those vows we took. We need to,” Mark said. Angel looked in his eyes and got
all misty.
When it came time for him to say his promise, Angel got butterflies. “I know
that the past little while has been hard. I understand what happened. I take
responsibility for what I did. The time that we were apart made me realize how
much you mean to me. How much I love you. I have never stopped loving you,
even when I felt like I was going insane. I promise that from today on, I will
always be true to you. I will love you more every day. I will never give you
reason to leave or to distrust me. I promise to be a good husband, a good dad to
Lila, and to love you for the rest of my living years. I promise that nothing and
nobody will ever come between us again. All I ask is that you love me in
return.”
The tears fell from Angel’s eyes. Mark wiped them from her eyes. Then came
Angel’s turn. She was so choked up she almost couldn’t speak. “Ever since we
met, I knew that there was something special between us. A connection that
couldn’t be destroyed. When I left, I thought I had got you out of my system. I
thought I could move on. What I realized that with one phrase, I was a goner. I

192. 2
have loved you since the moment we met. Things have been hard, and I know
that life sometimes is. I know that I can trust you. That I can believe in you
again. The minute I saw you with Lila, was the moment I fell for you all over
again. I promise to listen, and be your friend when you need one. I promise to
be a great mom, and a good wife to you. I know nothing can be promised
forever, but one thing I can promise is that I will love you for as long as I live on
this planet.”
Everyone was teary eyed. Chase tried to hide it, but he smiled.
They renewed their vows. Somehow to Mark, this felt like it was enough to put
her fears aside - to cast her doubts away. Afterwards, they set a date for Lila’s
christening. “I should have known,” Angel whispered to Mark. He wrapped his
arms around her. “You were all in on it weren’t you,” Angel said. “You bet,”
Raven said. “Why do you think we were all coming by? He had to give us the
info,” Alicia said. “At least we were here to see this one,” Chase said shaking
Mark’s hand. Crystal came and gave Angel a hug. “I’ll be right back,” Angel
sad motioning to Chase.
“What’s up,” Chase asked. “You know why he did this right,” Angel said.
“Must have been something you said,” Chase said. “Fresh start,” Angel replied.
“Well,” Chase said. “I may be able to say the words Chase, but I am still
worried,” Angel said. He gave her a hug. “I’ll always be here. You know that,”
Chase said. “I know. Thank you,” Angel said. Crystal walked towards them.
“You know you have one heck of a hubby,” Angel said. “Thank god for him
every day,” Crystal said. “Coming,” Mark asked. “Where you taking me now,”
she asked. “Dinner,” Mark replied. He kissed her. “I guess I’m coming with
you then,” Angel teased.
“You are just full of surprises aren’t you,” Angel said as she got into the car with
Mark. “I wanted to do it the day that Lila was born remember,” Mark said.
“Yeah,” Angel said. “Figured this was the perfect place,” he said. “You sure
there were no other reasons behind it,” Angel asked. “There were. I won’t deny
it. I wanted to show you that you can trust me. That you can believe in me.
That you don’t have to worry that I am going to cheat again,” Mark said. “It’s
not going to change anything Mark. I still need time,” Angel said. “Time
together. That’s all. Time for you and me to find the reason why we loved each
other so much,” Mark said. “Time to get past the mistakes,” Angel said. They
pulled out of the parking lot and Mark headed for the beach. “I thought we were
meeting them for dinner,” Angel asked. “We will,” Mark said. He pulled into
the beach parking. “What,” Angel asked as he turned to look at her. “I’m never
going to cheat again. Never. I don’t want to be with anyone else,” Mark said.
“You say that now Mark. Now that you have back what you wanted. What

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happens when you get bored, or frustrated. What happens if you change your
mind,” Angel said. He pulled her to him and kissed her. “Stop,” Angel said
sitting back down in her seat. “What is it going to take? What do I have to do to
get you to not think like this,” Mark said. “Time,” Angel replied. She got out of
the car and went and sat on the beach. “I’m never going to change my mind. I
know what life is like without you and Lila. I don’t want to live like that,” Mark
said. “If it happens again Mark,” Angel said. He pulled her to him, wrapping
his arms around her. “It’s never going to. Ever,” he said. “How do you know,”
Angel asked. “We were meant to be together. That’s why,” Mark replied. He
kissed her. Angel’s tears fell down her face. He wiped them away. “No more of
those tonight. We are together. For as long as we are living and breathing,” he
said. “Guess I’m stuck with you then eh,” Angel teased coaxing out a laugh.
“Like crazy glue. Surgically attached,” Mark replied. He kissed her again and it
finally felt right to her.
They headed down to meet everyone for dinner, and walked in to see her family
there as well. “Nice seeing all of you again,” Angel joked as Mark wrapped his
arms around her from behind. “Told you I was full of surprises,” Mark
whispered. Angel made the rounds and said hi to everyone, then they sat down
to dinner. Mark fed Lila while Angel ate, then had some dinner himself. “You
know, she’s almost a good of a baby as you were,” Angel’s mom said. Angel
smiled. “She really is such a good baby,” Angel said. Everyone got a little quiet.
Mark stood up. “I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for helping me pull
off this little surprise. As you know we have had some trying times lately, and
we thank all of you for being there for us. Since we couldn’t do this last time,
due to Lila’s impatience about coming into the world, thank you all for being
part of our lives, being our friends and family and for being you,” Mark said.
“Cheers,” everyone replied. “And since you are all here, next weekend we are
having Lila’s christening,” Angel said. She looked over at Chase. He knew
exactly what she was going to ask and nodded. Once dinner was done, everyone
slowly headed back to their hotels and houses. Angel’s mom volunteered to take
Lila for the night. “I brought a few extra bottles anyway,” Alicia said. “Guess
you guys thought of everything,” Angel said. “Have a good night baby,” her
dad said. Angel and Mark gave them a hug and they headed out.
“So now what’s your plan,” Angel whispered wrapping her arms around Mark.
“I think you already know the answer to that question,” Mark whispered back.
“Oh. Up for round 6 are you,” Angel teased. “So how long are you two here
for,” Mark asked as Chase and Crystal came over. “A few days,” Chase said.
“Why don’t you two stay for the christening,” Mark suggested. Angel nodded.
“Really,” Chase asked. “Since you two are going to be the godparents, yes,”
Mark said. “We’d be honored,” Crystal said. She gave Angel and Mark a huge
hug and Chase hugged Angel. “Anytime,” Chase whispered to Angel. “I guess

194. 2
we will be staying,” Crystal teased. “Can we bring the gang,” Chase asked. “As
long as it’s okay with Angel,” Mark said. “Sounds great. They’d love the
beach,” Angel said. They headed out and walked Crystal and Chase to their car.
Once they pulled out, Mark kissed Angel. “Think you’re going to win this round
do you,” Angel teased. “Definitely up for the challenge,” Mark replied leaning
her against the wall. “Really,” Angel said. He kissed her again and pulled her
tight to him. “Gee. Can’t have you driving like that can I,” Angel teased. He
kissed her again and she grabbed the car keys. “What you doing,” Mark asked.
“Just like I said. You can’t drive like that,” Angel joked running for the car. He
followed leaning her against the car. “Oh no you don’t,” he said. Angel
dropped the keys down her shirt. “Guess you’ll have to get them,” she teased.
Mark kissed her. “That could be arranged,” Mark said unbuttoning her dress.
“You know you are crazy. We can’t do this out here,” Angel said. He kissed her
again, sliding her bra off. “Had to get the keys somehow,” he replied as he
kissed her breasts. Angel cautiously opened the car door. “Nope. I’m driving,”
Mark said. “Who said anything about driving,” Angel replied. He kissed her
again and pulled her to him as she sat on the edge of the seat. He slid her g-
string off. “Mark. Not here,” Angel said. “Yes,” he replied. She could feel how
horny he was. “Beach,” Angel said. He undid his dress pants. “We can’t do this
here,” Angel said. He kissed her again to silence her. He pulled her to him and
took her in the parking lot. At some point, he hopped into the car with Angel.
Both of them totally forgot where they were.
Angel curled up in Mark’s arms. “I can’t believe you,” Angel said. “Me? Tease
and a half. Isn’t like the pot calling the kettle black,” Mark teased. “Probably,
but I am the tease master,” Angel said. “Really, well tease master, what do you
have planned for the rest of the night,” Mark asked. “Let me give you a hint,”
Angel said. “Okay,” Mark said. “Black Lace, Candles, Champagne and,” Angel
whispered. “And what,” Mark asked as he kissed her neck. She took his hand
and slid it between her legs. “You know we’re never going to get out of this
parking lot if you don’t stop the teasing,” Mark said as he leaned in to kiss
Angel. She re-buttoned her dress. “Oh no you don’t,” Mark said. Angel slipped
away from him and hopped in the front with the car keys. “Sneaky,” Mark said.
Angel started the car. “You are so getting it when we get home,” Mark said.
Angel laughed. “Thought I already did Mark,” she replied. He hopped into the
front beside her and kissed her. He leaned towards her. “No way. We are going
home,” Angel said. He kissed her again and slid his hand between her legs.
“No. We are going home,” Angel said. His fingers ran over her sending shivers
up her spine. “I’m driving,” he whispered as his fingers slid in and out of her.
“Quickly then,” Angel replied. He slid into the driver’s seat and she wrapped
her legs around him with her back to the steering wheel. “Oh really,” Mark
teased as he kissed her hard. “You can drive if you think you can,” Angel said.

195. 2
“Oh you are so in for it,” Mark said. He kissed her again trying to talk her into
round 2. Angel slid back over to her seat. He left the parking lot and headed to
the house. “Hey Mark,” Angel teased as he hit the highway. He held her hand.
She slid it across her silky leg. He slid it up her dress. “You sure we have to go
all the way home,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. He finally pulled into the
driveway as she stretched her legs over his lap. He put the car in park and
pulled her to him. He kissed her hard. She slid off his lap and headed inside.
She went to open the door and he pinned her against it. His hand came around
the front of her dress, unbuttoning as it moved down. Angel got the door open
and went in, running up the steps to their bedroom. Mark gave chase. They got
into their room and he came up behind her, pinning her against the bed. “You
are so totally in for it,” Mark said. He slid her dress off and to the ground.
Angel felt a piece of paper on the bed. “What’s this,” Angel said grabbing it. She
started to read. He took it from her hands. “A love letter for me eh,” Angel said.
“Told you I would be willing to do anything,” Mark said as his pants and shirt
fell to the floor. He pulled her to him, flipping her onto her back and pulling her
towards him. “You aren’t getting away now,” Mark said. He kissed her hard.
Angel wrapped her arms around him. He made love to her passionately. He
caressed every inch of her body. Every touch sent shivers up her spine. He was
so intense, so determined. Her body craved him now. Like a heroin junky her
body longed for one more time. One more hit of the passion that made her heart
race. They both fell asleep from exhaustion.
The next morning they woke up still wrapped up in each other’s arms. No
Goldie, no Lila. “Silence is beautiful isn’t it,” Mark said kissing Angel’s neck.
“Nice to sleep in for once too,” Angel said. He kissed her. “So what surprises do
you have planned for today,” Angel asked. “Let’s just say that my mom has Lila
today. They are bringing her back tomorrow,” Mark said. “Two days no Lila,”
Angel asked. “Guess it’s a good thing that we got her on bottles,” Angel said.
“Mommy and Daddy time,” Mark said. Angel kissed him and wrapped her
arms around him. “So what do you have planned for today? I know you have
surprises up your sleeve,” Angel said. “Many surprises,” Mark replied. Angel
slid out of bed and headed for the shower. When she came out, the bed was
made, and there were rose petals on the bed. She headed downstairs and found
him on the patio chair wrapped up in a towel. She sat down beside him.
“Jumped into the ocean for a swim did you,” Angel asked. “Definitely. Would
have shared with you, but kind of difficult to surprise you when we are
inseparable,” Mark joked. “So very true,” Angel said. She looked over to the
table and noticed fruit salad, and champagne and orange juice. “Special occasion
eh,” Angel asked. “Yep. You and me day. Should be a stat holiday,” Mark said.
Angel kissed him and put her head on his shoulder. “Breakfast,” he asked.
Angel nodded. They headed over to the table and got themselves some fruit and
their champagne. “So who was the champagne from this time,” Angel joked.

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“My reserve in the cellar,” Mark replied. Angel took a sip and noticed
something in the glass. “What’s this,” Angel asked. “A charm for your
bracelet,” Mark said. It was a baby rattle. Angel kissed him. “You know, I think
I could get used to this,” Angel said. “You’d better,” Mark replied kissing her.
They sat back down in their chaise and curled up together, nibbling away on
their breakfast. “Had an idea for this afternoon,” Mark said. “What’s that,”
Angel replied. “The cabin,” he replied.

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Chapter 23
The boat docked at the marina around 11am, as Angel and Mark hopped off and
headed to the cabin. They walked in the door, and Angel found 2 dozen of her
favorite roses dispersed throughout the room. “I don’t know how you do it you
know,” Angel said as she leaned back into Mark’s arms. “Do what? Surprise
you all the time,” Mark replied. “Yeah. I don’t know how you manage to do this
all the time,” Angel said. “You haven’t seen anything yet,” Mark whispered in
her ear. His arms wrapped around her waist as his hands slid up. “Gee. I
wonder what else you could be thinking,” Angel said. “I think you know,” Mark
said. “Mmmm. I bet I do,” Angel whispered. He kissed the nape of her neck
and sent shivers down her spine. He walked her in towards the bedroom and
slipped the straps of her dress from her shoulders. “This is the way our
honeymoon should have been don’t you think,” Mark asked. “Definitely,”
Angel replied as her dress slid down her torso to the floor. He turned her
around to face him and kissed her. “You know this is how we got Lila in the first
place,” Angel joked. He kissed her hard and picked her up walking her towards
the bed. “Don’t I know it,” he replied as he laid Angel down on the bed. He
kissed her from her toes to the tip of her nose. “Tell me this won’t ever change,”
Angel said. “Never,” Mark replied. “That’s a long time,” Angel said. He
worked his way back down her torso then kissed her stomach. “This what you
had planned for today,” Angel asked. His jeans dropped to the floor as his
fingers caressed her. “That too,” Mark replied. He kissed her hard again as she
wrapped her legs tight around him and pulled him to her. They made love slow,
and sensually. Every touch sent shivers across their bodies.
Around 3 that afternoon, Angel’s cell phone rang. Mark grabbed it. “No phones
remember,” Mark said. “It might be your mom,” Angel replied. He looked at
the call display. It was Andy. “Why is he calling you,” Mark asked as Angel
grabbed the phone. “What’s up Andy,” Angel said. “I need to talk to Mark. It’s
really urgent,” he said. Angel handed the phone to Mark. “So what might I do
for you,” Mark asked. “We got problems. Someone tried to break into the
house,” Andy said. “What do you mean,” Mark replied. “I know who it is
Mark. You aren’t going to be impressed,” Andy said. “Anything missing,” Mark
asked. “Your wedding album, and your PDA,” Andy said. “Anything else,”
Mark asked. “Don’t you think that’s enough? She took both. She knows. She is
pissed as hell. She went nuts,” Andy said. “You find the person,” Mark asked
trying to be calm. “Her car sped off in the direction of the marina. Just wanted
to warn you. She must remember the cabin,” Andy said. “Thanks for the heads
up. We’ll probably head back soon,” Mark said. He hung up. “What was all
that about,” Angel asked. “Break in at the house. I don’t want to go home to all
this drama when we are supposed to be honeymooning,” Mark said. “Me either,
but maybe we should,” Angel said. He kissed her again and wrapped his arms

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around her. “Not yet,” he replied. He wrapped her legs around him and kissed
her. “What aren’t you telling me,” Angel asked. He kissed her again to silence
her.
Angel and Mark pulled their things back on, and nibbled on some lunch. There
was a knock at the door. “Who in the,” Angel said. Mark went and answered it.
All Angel could hear was a woman’s voice.
“I want to see this woman that you walked out on me for. I want to see her,”
Diamond said. “Would you stop. She is my wife. That’s all there is to it,” Mark
said. “We had something good and you walked out on it for that,” she said. “Go
okay. We are on our damn honeymoon. Come on Diamond,” Mark said. “I
didn’t come all this way to talk Mark. She’s going to have to share,” Diamond
said. “No. I told you before. What we had is done. There is no going back to it.
It was a mistake in the first place. Our marriage didn’t work. Why would you
think anything else would,” Mark said. Mark heard rustling. “Just go. Don’t
cause any more problems okay,” Mark asked. “I had you first Mark. I don’t
intend to give up without a fight,” she replied. “You are. Give me what you
took and leave,” he said. He heard a door slam. He closed his eyes and said a
quiet prayer. “If she walks out, I swear Diamond,” Mark said. “Then that means
you are all mine,” she said. Mark walked into the kitchen. She was gone. He
checked the bedroom. Diamond followed him. “Get out of here okay,” Mark
said. He heard a click. He looked down and she’s cuffed him to the bed post.
“Enough with this shit. I have to go find her,” Mark said. “No you don’t. She’ll
come back if she really wants you that bad,” Diamond said. “She is my wife.
Get it? My W-I-F-E. The mother of my daughter. Undo this and let me go,”
Mark said.
Angel headed towards the dock and got a ride back to the house. On the way
back, Angel called Mark’s mom and she dropped Lila off. “You okay baby,” she
asked. “Yes. Mark got tied up with something and I decided to come back.
Missed Lila,” Angel said. “She is one adorable little girl I tell you. She is going
to be a heartbreaker,” she said. “Just like her dad,” Angel replied.
Mark headed back to the house and was terrified. He tried calling Angel over
and over again. “Baby. Please answer. Please,” Mark said. Diamond had tried
to get what she wanted. He gave in just enough to get the keys for the cuffs
away from her and get out of the cabin. Andy showed and took her into
custody.
Mark pulled into the driveway and Angel’s car was still there. There was
another car in the drive as well. He recognized it. When he got to the door,
Raven answered it. “Where is she,” Mark asked. “Don’t even go there. You

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screwed that chick didn’t you,” Raven said. “No. She cuffed me and I managed
to get the keys and take off. Andy has her in custody….. why the hell am I
telling you this,” Mark said trying to push past her. “She doesn’t want to see you
Mark,” Raven said. “She is my wife Raven. Back off,” Mark said going around
the back. Angel was curled up on the swing with Lila. Angel was sipping a
glass of wine. “Mark. Leave her. This is the longest she’s gone without crying
okay,” Raven said. “I didn’t do anything. Nothing. She has to know that. If
you won’t let me talk to her,” Mark said. “Go inside. I will talk to her. You
better not be lying either Mark,” Raven said.
Angel leaned onto the cushion of the swing with Lila against her heart. She’d
finally stopped crying. She didn’t want Lila to see her like this. “Angel,” Raven
whispered. “I can’t do it Raven. God I hope he didn’t, but I can’t go through
this,” Angel said quietly so as to not wake Lila. “He’s home. He didn’t. Andy
has her in custody,” Raven whispered. “You don’t know that Raven. She was
the one he was sleeping with when I left and went north. It was her. He slept
with her over and over and didn’t think I would figure it out. I can’t do this
again. I won’t,” Angel said as the tears started again. “Let me take her inside,”
Raven asked. “I swear Raven. If he did,” Angel said. Raven took Lila inside.
“You so totally owe me. You screwed old girl and she will never forgive you,”
Raven said. She took Lila upstairs to her bed as Mark made his way outside to
try to talk to Angel.
He saw her refill her glass of wine. Half a bottle was already gone. “Baby,”
Mark said. “Get away from me,” Angel said. “Please,” Mark said. “Did you
have sex with her Mark? Did you,” Angel asked. “I haven’t. I haven’t since the
day you left. I swear,” Mark said. “Then why,” Angel said taking a sip of her
wine. “She was mad that I cut her off completely from my life. She wanted me
back and I told her that I love you and that I won’t risk losing you again. I told
her about the ceremony and that we were on our honeymoon do-over. You have
to believe me,” Mark said. He tried to take her hand. “Go Mark. You know you
wanted to be with her. Just go. I’ll find somewhere for Lila and I to go. Do what
you want,” Angel said. “No. I won’t let you walk away again. I didn’t sleep
with her. I didn’t even kiss her. I couldn’t,” Mark said. “Please baby,” Mark
said. “I can’t do this again. I can’t take it. You want to go back to her then go,”
Angel said. “You aren’t hearing me. The only two women, other than my sister
and mom, in my life are you and Lila. You two mean the world to me. I couldn’t
do anything to ever jeopardize it,” Mark said. “I swear Mark. If you ever,”
Angel said. He kissed her. “I would never ever risk it baby. You know that,” he
said kissing her again and pulling her towards him. “Mark,” Angel said. “Stop.”
She went to get up and he wouldn’t let go. “Never. Please baby,” Mark said. He
kissed her again. She got up and grabbed her wine. “Don’t walk away from
me,” Mark said.

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Angel headed to the beach. The sun was starting to set. Mark grabbed some
wood from the house and made a little beach fire for them. There were two or
three down the beach, but he wanted one for just them. He grabbed a blanket
and headed out to the beach. He ordered dinner, and asked Raven to call him
when it got there. “You better not be lying to her or else,” Raven said. “I’m
fixing this. Nothing happened with her. Just do this for me,” Mark said. “Fine,
but know, I am watching you,” Raven said.
He headed out to the beach and sat down beside Angel. “Blanket,” he asked.
“Mark, I swear,” Angel said. He wrapped the blanket around her shoulder and
pulled her close to him. “Just like I promised you okay. Nothing happened and
nothing will,” Mark said. “How the hell do I,” Angel started to say as Mark
silenced her with a kiss. “I love you. You and Lila are my life. That’s all there is
to it,” Mark said as he kissed her again. He pulled her into his lap. “Mark, this
has got to stop,” Angel said as he wiped the tears from her eyes. “No more of
those. No more crying. No more fights. Trust in me that nothing will happen,”
Mark said. “I don’t know,” Angel said as she pushed him away and took a long
sip of her wine. “You don’t need that Angel. You need me. Just admit it,” Mark
said. “I never doubted that, I just can’t take this anymore. What’s supposed to
be a good day, ends with another woman banging down the door. I can’t do this
anymore Mark,” Angel said. She moved away from him. “Don’t. Not now. Not
when we have everything,” Mark said. “Please.” “We don’t. I thought we did,
but we don’t. The minute that woman showed up, I knew. I knew that she was
the one person that came between us. I’m not fighting anymore. It’s a losing
battle,” Angel said. She refilled her glass. “It isn’t. I’m not going to let her ruin
what we have. I’m not going to let her in my life again,” Mark said. “Who will it
be next Mark,” Angel said. She got up and walked back to the swing. “Baby,”
Mark said.
Raven flagged Mark down and told him that the food was there. “Thanks,”
Mark said. “Lila’s with Angel’s mom. I am heading home. Don’t do her wrong
Mark. Don’t hurt her even more,” Raven said. “Thanks for the great advice,”
Mark said sarcastically. He brought dinner out to Angel. “Your favorite,” Mark
said. “Stop trying to suck up okay,” Angel said. “I’m not. I know it’s your
favorite. I’m just trying to salvage this okay,” Mark said. “Why there Mark?
Why did she have to do this,” Angel said. “She realized why I didn’t come back.
She knew she’d lost. She wanted to fight for it, and I told her it wasn’t worth the
effort because I would never go back to her,” Mark said. “But why at the
cottage? The one place where we could get away from all this. The one place
where we could be really alone,” Angel said. “I bought the cottage when we
were together. She knew where it was, she just never got the chance to see it. I
got it just before we split,” Mark said. “She had to make one last effort to try,

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and when I turned her down flat, she lost it.” “I just can’t anymore Mark.
There’s no fight left in me,” Angel said. She took her wine and headed inside.
Mark put the fire out on the beach and followed her inside.
“Lila is with your mom,” Mark said. “Raven,” Angel asked. “She went home.
It’s just us,” Mark said. Angel walked upstairs and drew herself a hot bubble
bath. She closed the door behind her. She slid into the bubbles and leaned back.
“Tell me she believes me,” Mark said quietly to the air. He went into the
bedroom and slid into bed. He checked emails and went through some papers.
Every few minutes, he looked over and the bathroom door was still closed. He
hoped she believed him. He hadn’t done a thing.
She cuffed him to the bed to try and convince him to give into her. “Diamond. I
love her okay. I’ve put her through enough. I went through hell to get her back.
Don’t make me do this,” Mark said. “I want one last time. One last time then I
will leave willingly,” she said. “You know I can’t do that,” Mark said. “Yes you
can. I know how to get you going Mark. We were married you know,” she said.
She kissed him hard. “Diamond please stop this,” he said as her hands undid his
jeans. “I knew you still wanted me,” she said. He wasn’t reacting the way he
used to. She moved down his body and put her mouth on him. “Stop this,”
Mark said. “You want it I know you do,” she said. “You know you can’t walk
away from this.” He saw the keys in her skirt pocket. “Undo it. I can’t do this
one handed.” Mark asked. “No. You are my prisoner for the next hour,” she
said. She climbed onto his lap. “Feel how hot you are making me,” she said.
She straddled him and tried to get him to have sex with her. He went for the
keys. He grabbed them and undid the cuffs. “I told you no. Get out,” Mark
said. He went into the washroom and showered. When he came out, she was
naked on the bed. “You know you want this Mark,” she said. There was a knock
at the door. “Better get dressed,” Mark said as he opened the door and headed
for the boat.
Mark heard the water drain. He put his papers away. He heard the door open,
and another one close. “Damn it,” he said. He got up and walked across the hall
to her room. “Angel,” Mark said. “What do you want,” Angel asked. He
opened the door. She slid on her pink satin lingerie. “Please don’t do this,”
Mark said. “Good night Mark,” Angel said. He stood in the doorway, leaning
on the door frame. “Nothing happened. Not a damn thing,” Mark said. “How
would I know that Mark? Am I supposed to believe you,” Angel asked. “Yes.
Why would I lie to you,” Mark asked. “Gee. Maybe because you want some
tonight,” Angel said climbing into bed. “Stop this. We aren’t going to sleep in
the middle of a fight. We aren’t going to bed mad,” Mark said. He sat down on
the edge of the bed. “What do you want from me Mark? You had to have done
something with her or she wouldn’t have let go. Don’t deny it and lie to me,”

202. 2
Angel said. “You want the truth? I told her that I wasn’t risking losing you
again. She put her mouth on me, and tried to have sex with me. I got the keys,
unlocked myself and pushed her away, then cleaned up and headed to you.
That’s all. Andy picked her up,” Mark said. “So you slept with her,” Angel said.
“No. I had no reaction. I got away before it went that far,” Mark said. “How the
hell am I supposed to believe that,” Angel said. “Pull your sweater and jeans on.
We are finishing this for good,” Mark said. He headed into the bedroom and
pulled his jeans and sweater on. He called Andy. “I want her to tell Angel what
happened. That’s the only way,” Mark said. “Okay,” Andy replied.
A short while later, they showed up at the police station. Andy had no idea what
Mark was thinking, but went along with it. “In here,” Andy said. Diamond was
already at the table. “Diamond, this is Angel. This is my wife. The woman I
love more than anything,” Mark said. “She don’t look to special to me Mark.
Just another one of those chicks you pick up,” Diamond said. “I love her okay.
She is the only woman I want. Tell her what happened. The truth,” Mark said.
“Why? She don’t trust you? Don’t blame her,” Diamond said. “Enough with
the bullshit. Tell her the truth,” Mark said.
“I tried to remind him of how good we were. I tried to suck him hard, and then
tried to screw him. Before I could, he had swiped the keys. That cop showed up.
Didn’t even get one last taste of that. Damn,” Diamond said. Angel got up and
walked out. “Stay the hell away from us. You’ve done enough Diamond. You
screwed me over and now that you can’t have me you try to screw with my life?
Get over yourself okay. She is the mother of my child. I am not about to lose her
because of your stupid crap,” Mark said and walked out. Angel heard
everything at the door. She walked out the minute he saw her face. “I tried to
tell you. You had to hear it from her. Now do you believe me,” Mark asked. He
tried to hold her to him. Angel pushed him away. He pulled her to him as she
fought him. The tears started to stream down her face. “I’m not letting go. No
matter how hard you fight it, I won’t let you go,” Mark said as they stood in the
parking lot. “I hate this. Why the hell do you have to do this? Why,” Angel
said. She was still fighting against his hug. “I love you. Isn’t that enough? I’m
not letting go. I don’t want to ever be without you,” Mark said. “I don’t want to
fight the world just to be with you. God,” Angel said. She calmed down. “You
don’t have to. Just trust that I won’t hurt you. Please,” Mark said quietly.
The drive home was quiet. When they got to the house, Angel leaned back in the
car. “Walk,” he asked. “Alone,” Angel replied. She got up, slid her runners and
socks off and headed for the beach. “Not this late. I’m coming,” Mark said.
They wandered down the beach and finally stopped at the cove. “Just sit.
Please. You haven’t said a word to me,” Mark said. Angel sat down in the sand
as the waves rolled over her toes. “You believe me that nothing happened. I

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know you do,” Mark said. “You call her mouth on you nothing do you,” Angel
said. She got up and walked back to the main beach. Mark wasn’t too far behind
her. “Angel. Wait,” he said. He saw her answer her phone then she stopped.
He knew something had to be wrong. “What,” Mark said. “James is out,” Angel
said.
“What do you mean he got out early,” Mark said as he talked to Andy. “He’s
out. Wasn’t under our jurisdiction at the time. The restraining order is still in
place, so she doesn’t need to worry,” Andy said. “When,” Mark said. “An hour
ago. I tried to catch you before you left to tell you, but you were a little busy,”
Andy said. “Thanks. I’ll call you if we need you,” Mark said. Angel was sitting
in the sand with tears streaming from her eyes. “It’s going to be fine. I promise,”
Mark said. Angel pushed him away. She got up and walked towards the house.
She headed inside and back up to her room. She slipped her sweater and jeans
off, then sat down on the edge of the bed. “Change your mind about him,” a
voice said from behind her. “What the,” Angel said. He covered her mouth.
“You’re mine now. No more having to wrestle him for you,” James said. She
tried to fight him. She tried to scream, but his hand muffled her attempts. She
grabbed the vase from the bedside table and smacked his head with it. He
crumbled to the floor and she ran into Mark’s room.
“Mark,” Angel said as she came into the bedroom. “What,” he said hearing the
fear in her voice. “He’s in the house,” Angel said. Mark pulled a gun out of his
side table. “Call Andy,” Mark said. He got out of bed and headed into the hall.
All she heard was a crash. She sent a 911 text to Andy. It would have to do.
James came into the room. “Thought that would knock me out eh,” James said
heading towards her. “Mark,” Angel screamed. “He’s out baby. You’re all
mine,” James said. He pinned her into the corner. “See. You even pulled this on
for me,” James said. His hand touched her leg. “Get out before Andy gets here,”
Angel begged. “Not before I get what I came for,” James said. He kissed her
hard pinning her arms over her head. His hand slid between her legs. “You
want it. Don’t fight me,” Andy said. “Don’t move. You touch her again, and
you’re going out. Back away from her.” She’d never heard Mark like that.
“Don’t push pretty boy,” James said as he undid his jeans and pulled her leg
around him. “I said stop,” Mark said. He turned Angel to face the wall. “This is
how she wants it pretty boy,” James said. “Stop it. Don’t,” Angel said as James
turned towards her. He went to lean towards her and Angel tried to fight him
off. She could feel him. She felt how turned on he was. She knew there was no
fighting him. “Back away from her or else,” Mark said. He moved closer and his
manhood slid against her backside. “You want it don’t you,” James said. “No,”
Angel said. He leaned in towards her and she could feel him. “I missed how
wet you get,” James whispered in her ear. All of a sudden, her hands were

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released and all she could hear was someone gasping for breath. Mark had him
on the floor. “Where are you,” Andy said screaming from downstairs. “Up
here,” Angel said. Andy walked in. “Let go Mark,” Andy said. Mark had his
hand on James’ throat and the other holding his hands behind his back. “Let
go,” Andy said as he cuffed James. Angel ran into the bathroom and locked the
door. “Take care of her. Did anything happen,” Andy asked. “I felt that,” James
said. Mark lunged at him again. “I’ll get rid of this, you take care of her. She
need to go to the hospital or anything, call me,” Andy said.
“Baby. Come out. He’s gone,” Mark said. “No,” Angel said. “Did he,” Mark
asked. “No,” Angel replied. “Please let me come in then,” Mark asked. “No,”
Angel said. “Open the door at least,” he asked. “No,” Angel replied. “Come to
the hospital with me then,” Mark said. Angel opened the door with gauze in her
hand. She checked the cut on his head for glass. “We’re going to the hospital.
That’s not a band aid cut,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Enough of that,” Angel
said throwing him his jeans and sweater. She pulled her jeans and sweatshirt on
and they headed out to the car. The cops were still at the house. “We’ll be on
guard until you get back,” they said.
After a few stitches, Mark and Angel headed back to the house. The officers
headed out once they saw them return. They headed inside and tried to calm
down. “You are sleeping in my room tonight. Don’t fight me on this,” Mark
said. Angel poured them both a glass of wine. “Let me be there okay,” Mark
asked. Angel went outside to her swing. Mark followed with a blanket. “He
can’t hurt us. He’s in custody,” Mark said. Angel kissed him. “Don’t talk okay.
Just let me calm down,” Angel said. He wrapped the blanket around them and
held her in his arms. After a half hour or so, she wrapped her arms around him.
“Thank you,” Angel said. “For what,” Mark asked. “For protecting me. I don’t
know what would have happened,” Angel said as Mark cut her off with a kiss.
“We’re okay now. I’m here. I’m not ever letting go,” Mark said. He kissed her
again. They finished their wine and headed inside. There were numerous
messages on the machine, but they ignored them and headed to bed. They
curled up together on the bed and fell fast asleep.

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Chapter 24
The next morning, Angel woke up and Mark was right beside her. She refused
to let go of him. “Tell me last night was a bad dream,” Angel said. “Very bad,
and it gave me one hell of a headache,” Mark said. “Where did the gun come
from,” Angel asked. “After what he did last time, I thought it was protection.
Would have helped if it were loaded,” Mark said. “You mean,” Angel asked.
“Didn’t think it was necessary. All it takes is the image of it,” Mark said. He
kissed Angel. “Are you okay,” he asked. “I should be asking you. You’re the
one with the stitches,” Angel said. “Are you,” he asked. “Thanks to you, yes,”
Angel replied. “Just like I told you baby. You and Lila are my life. Nothing will
ever hurt you again. I promise,” Mark said. He kissed her again and she
wrapped her arms around him. “I love you. I don’t know how else to say it.”
She kissed him again and he wrapped his arms around her. He unzipped her
sweater and slid it off. He slid her jeans off, kicking them to the floor. “I would
have died if anything had happened to you,” Mark said. He kissed Angel’s neck.
Angel grabbed at his jeans. “Off,” she said as he kissed her hard and did as she
asked.
They spent the morning in bed together. They made love and curled up
together. Everything was so quiet. “So about that idea of another baby,” Mark
teased. “Fun practicing isn’t it,” Angel said as he slid her hair behind her ears.
He kissed her again and she leaned against him with her ear on his heart. “Are
we okay,” Mark asked. “I think so,” Angel said. Mark kissed her again. The
phone rang. “No. Don’t answer it. No calls,” Angel said. Mark looked at the
call display. “It’s your mom,” he said. Angel answered it. “Hi mom….. yes we
are fine….. thank you for looking after her….. tomorrow? Sounds okay to me…..
okay. I’ll talk to you tomorrow morning then.” Angel hung up. “Keeping Lila
tonight,” Mark asked. “She volunteered. She said that she was going out for a
girls day with Lila and your mom and wanted to have her sleep over,” Angel
laughed. “That little girl is spoiled rotten,” Mark said. “So is her mommy,”
Angel said. Mark kissed her and turned the phone off. “No calls. Aubrey called
last night while you were sleeping. Told her what happened. Told her to pass it
on that we are phone, email and house phone free today,” Mark said. “So just
what might you have planned,” Angel said. He kissed her and rolled her onto
her back. “Almost Friday,” Mark said. She kissed him. “Here’s the deal then.
You can’t touch and either can I,” Angel said. “Until,” Mark asked. “Until the
conversation is finished. No interrupting,” Angel said. “Ooh. Depends. What
are you going to wear,” Mark teased. “You’ll see,” Angel said. He kissed her
again. “Or we could just wait until Friday,” Mark said.
They finally got up, and had some dinner then delved into their Friday night 20
questions. Angel came downstairs in nothing but her satin robe, and Mark in

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nothing but his blue jeans. They each had their glass of wine. “You go first,”
Angel said. “Okay. Would you really have walked out on me without letting
me explain about the Diamond thing,” Mark asked. “I wouldn’t have wanted to,
but I think I might have if it weren’t for Lila,” Angel said. “She’s the only
reason,” Mark asked. “I love you. I do. I just don’t have any fight left,” Angel
said. “Your turn,” he said. “If it meant getting rid of Diamond for good, would
you have slept with her,” Angel said. He paused. “Would you have had one last
sack session with her if it meant she’d leave us alone for good,” Angel asked. He
paused. “I couldn’t. Just the thought of it made me think that if I did, I would
lose you. I wouldn’t have won either way,” Mark said. “But if it meant she’d go
away for good,” Angel asked. “Never,” Mark said. “I wouldn’t ever jeopardize
us. I’d rather keep her away some other way.” “Weren’t even tempted,” Angel
said. “Don’t get me started. I was. I was getting horny. She knows me. She
knows every move to make. The fact is, I stopped myself. I stopped her,” Mark
said. “So she did turn you on,” Angel asked. “Not more than you do,” he
replied. “Nice cover,” Angel teased. “Why was he so determined to sleep with
you,” Mark asked. “He probably freaked when he heard we had a baby. He
always told me that he was going to be the one to get me pregnant then I would
be his forever. Needless to say, that’s why he always tried to catch me off guard
when he’d force me to sleep with him,” Angel said. “So why didn’t you get
pregnant when you were with him,” Mark asked. “Every three months, took an
injection to prevent it. Had to figure out a way of doing it without him
knowing,” Angel said. “Really,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. “Do we want
another baby,” Mark asked. “Not right now, but in a year or two,” Angel said.
“Good point,” Mark replied.
“Favorite place we’ve had sex,” Angel asked. “Totally unfair. You are teasing,”
Mark said. “Answer or you have to take a dare,” Angel said. “Changing the
rules. Okay,” Mark replied. “On the chaise, in the middle of the day. When I
slid my hand down your bathing suit and…” “Didn’t ask for the details Mark,”
Angel said. “Then I felt…” “Okay. Next question,” Angel said. “Can’t postpone
this can we,” Mark asked leaning towards Angel. “Okay. Favorite perfume I
have worn,” Angel said. “Eternity Moment. It’s what you were wearing the
night we met, when I wanted to,” Mark said. Angel cut him off. “If you could
sleep with anyone, famous or not, who would it be? If you were allowed anyone
anywhere with no repercussions,” Angel said. “You answer first,” Mark said.
There was a silence in the room. “If you say Chase, so help me,” Mark teased.
“What,” Angel said. “Tell me you are kidding,” Mark said. “Chase and I have
been so close for so long. That attraction was always there somewhat,” Angel
said. “I can’t believe you,” Mark said. “You,” Angel asked. “Don’t you dare
change the topic. Are you serious,” Mark asked. “We said anyone. The only
other man I would want to be with would maybe be Vin Diesel,” Angel said.
“See that I could have handled, but Chase,” Mark said. “Who would yours be,”

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Angel said. “Freakin Angelina Jolie,” Mark said. “I can’t believe you never told
me that you had a thing for Chase,” Mark said. “Still want you more than both
of them put together,” Angel said. “Nice cover,” Mark said. “Your question,”
Angel said. “How many times have you been with Chase,” Mark asked. “5
times,” Angel said. “How the hell did I not know this,” Mark asked. “Two were
when we were younger and I didn’t even know you,” Angel said. “Two at the
bar. Where did the other one come from,” Mark asked. “It didn’t really count as
a full time. More like 4 and a half,” Angel said. “Spill it,” Mark said. “When I
took off and headed up there after fight number 9072. The time where you
followed me,” Angel said. “That’s where you were. Off somewhere with him,”
Mark asked. “He tried, and I couldn’t do it. Trust me. He tried. I took an earlier
flight home instead,” Angel said. “Why didn’t you ever tell me,” Mark asked.
“After everything that was done, you think that was important,” Angel asked.
“Yes,” Mark replied. “You screwed around with how many people,” Angel said.
“Okay. Not going there. Answer accepted,” Mark said. “Good,” Angel said as
she finished the last of her wine.
“Who was better? Me or Chase,” Mark asked. Angel was quiet. “Don’t you
dare say what I think you are going to,” Mark said. “Counting today,” Angel
joked. He moved towards her. “Hmmm.” Mark pulled her to him and wrapped
her legs around him. “Still haven’t decided eh,” Mark asked. Angel pulled his
jeans off. “Answer,” he said as he kissed her inner thigh. He licked and teased
her. “Answer,” he said as he slid one finger, then two into her wetness. “Mark,”
Angel said. “Answer or the teasing continues,” Mark said. Another finger.
“Totally not fair,” Angel said. He was horny as hell. “Answer or you are so
getting it,” Mark said. “Remind me again what my choices are,” Angel teased.
He slid a finger somewhere else. His tongue did crazy eights over her. “Okay.
You win,” Angel said. “Win what,” Mark said. She was so hot and bothered,
that she didn’t want him to stop. He kept going and going. “Do you want me
more or him,” Mark asked. “You,” Angel said. “Now.” They had sex on the
sofa and it was so intense, that neither one of them could handle it. It was wild,
intense, rough at times. After, they were upstairs on their bed again taking a
quick break. “So who was the best again,” Mark asked. “Like you have to ask,”
Angel said. “Ah. Deferring the answer,” Mark said. “You don’t have energy
enough for another round,” Angel teased. “Either do you,” Mark joked. “Good
point,” Angel said. “So the answer,” Mark said. “About even,” Angel teased.
“Oh you are so getting it,” Mark teased. He pulled her to him. “Joking,” Angel
said. “You are still getting it,” Mark said. “Oh darn,” Angel teased. She got up
and went to head towards the shower. “No you don’t. Not without me,” Mark
said chasing her into the bathroom.
After they had a long, hot shower, he turned the water off, and picked her up,
wrapping her legs around him and took her back to bed. “So where were we,”

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Mark asked. “My turn. Ooh. This will be good,” Angel said. He could feel that
she was still horny. His fingers played with her as he made his suggestion.
“New rule. After this moment, and for the rest of the night, x-rated questions
only,” Mark said. “Oh really. Who’s the one that created the game again,”
Angel teased. He kissed her breast and nibbled. His fingers moved inside her.
“Okay. Okay. I get it. Okay. Favorite position,” Angel said. “Shall I show you
or tell you,” Mark said as Angel felt him starting to get horny again. “This could
be interesting,” Angel said. “Both.” He turned her over on the bed. “Because I
can do this,” he said as he continued to play with her. “This,” he said as they
started to have sex again. “Or this,” he said as he slid a finger in her. They had
sex again. “Damn,” Angel said. “We so…… have…. to do…… this….. more……
often,” Mark said as they both came. They curled up together still so close and
he held her breasts in his hands. He could feel her heart racing and her womanly
parts still pulsating. “Holy crap,” Angel said. “Exactly,” Mark replied. “You
totally come in first against Chase,” Angel teased. He held her tighter. “And
don’t you ever forget it,” Mark said. “Remind me every so often,” Angel said.
“I’ll remind you alright,” Mark said. “Already know your favorite,” Mark said.
“What do you think it is,” Angel said. “Tongue, licking, teasing,” Mark teased.
“Close,” Angel said. “With fingers,” Mark replied. “Mmm,” Angel said. He
kissed her neck again. “One you always wanted to try but never have,” Angel
said. “With you….one specifically in mind, but would need another guy,” Mark
said. “Really,” Angel said. “I think you know,” Mark replied. “I know. Never
thought of that,” Angel said. His fingers slid down to play with her again. “Ever
been or wanted to know what it would be like to be with another woman,” Mark
asked. “Turns you on just thinking about that doesn’t it,” Angel whispered. She
could tell what that answer was. “Wondered, yes. Would want to, no,” Angel
said. “Why,” he asked. “Only want you licking and touching,” Angel said.
“That could be arranged,” Mark said.
That night, they finally fell asleep around 2 am. They’d finally got things back
on track. They met their mom’s for breakfast the next morning at their hotel, and
brought Lila home. By the time they pulled in the driveway, Goldie was home
too. “So much for silence,” Mark said. They headed inside, and Angel got Lila
changed and cleaned up. They spent the day on the beach. Lila played with her
toys and crawled back and forth from Mark to Angel. “She grew so much the
past couple days,” Mark said. “That she did,” Angel replied. Lila yawned and
Angel and Mark brought her inside for a nap. Angel fed her as Mark changed
the bed sheets. “She is so happy,” Mark said. “She was starving I think,” Angel
said. Once Lila was stuffed, Mark took her, changed her and put her to bed.
“Can I tell you a secret,” Mark said. “What’s that,” Angel asked. “Lila told me
something when I was changing her,” Mark said. “What did Miss Lila say,”
Angel said as Mark wrapped his arms around Angel’s shoulders. “Said she
wanted a little brother,” Mark said. “Really,” Angel said. “Yep. As soon as

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possible,” Mark replied. “Well, considering she doesn’t talk yet,” Angel teased.
“Guess we could practice for her sake,” Angel said. “We could, could we,” Mark
teased. Angel headed back to the patio with the baby monitor. She slid her
shorts off. “New bikini I see,” Mark noticed. “Yep,” Angel said. She laid the
chaise flat and laid on her stomach. “Damn. Nice minimalist suit there baby,”
Mark said. “Suntan lotion please,” Angel said. He put the lotion on her back for
her then moved down. “These came loose somehow,” Mark said as he untied
the ties at the side of the bathing suit. “Really, well I guess I’ll have to leave
them like that then,” Angel said as Goldie fell asleep under the table.
Mark laid down beside her. He stared at her. “I know what you are thinking
Mr. Scott,” Angel said. “Really,” Mark said. “What might that be?” Angel took
his hand and slid it between her legs. “Really,” he said. Angel nodded. “And
just how did you know that,” Mark asked. She kissed him. “Only a few days left
of fun. Might as well make the best of them,” Mark whispered in her ear. They
had sex as quietly as they could on the patio. They experimented and went with
their urges. Lila woke up as they both came. They sat for a minute and tried to
catch their breath, then headed inside.
Lila was wide awake when Angel came in. “Well hello princess,” Angel said.
“Ma-ma,” Lila said. “Mark. Come quick,” Angel said. Lila smiled. “What,”
Mark said running up the steps and into Lila’s room. “Hi princess,” Angel said.
“Ma-ma,” Lila said. “Oh my god. She said it,” Mark said. “What do you mean
crazy man,” Angel teased. “Hi baby,” Mark said. “Da-da,” Lila said. “You
didn’t teach her that did you,” Angel said. “My mom said she was trying to say
something the other day. This must have been it,” Mark said. Angel grabbed the
phone while she changed Lila with Mark. “Mom. She said mama,” Angel said.
“And dada and ba ba,” Angel’s mom said. “Why didn’t you call me and tell
me,” Angel said. “Got it on video. Put it in the baby bag,” Angel’s mom said.
Angel got Lila dressed then watched the DVD with Mark. “Ba-ba,” Lila said on
the screen. “Bottle,” Mark said. “We have one smart little princess don’t we,”
Angel said. Lila smiled and giggled. “And spoiled rotten,” Mark said. “So
true,” Angel said. Lila crawled over to Angel and grabbed her hair. “Ma-ma,”
she said as she smiled and giggled her little baby laugh. Mark tickled Lila as she
laughed. “She is such a smart little cookie isn’t she,” Angel said. “My mom said
they tried giving her applesauce on the weekend,” Mark said. “And,” Angel
asked. “She gobbled it all up and a bottle,” Mark said. “Applesauce it is then,”
Angel said. “Your mom threw some in the bag,” Mark said. “Question… what
did you want to do for Christmas,” Mark asked. “It is soon isn’t it,” Angel
asked. “A month and a bit,” Mark said. “We could go to the snow,” Angel said.
“Could,” Mark said. “Would be her first snow,” Angel replied. “First
Christmas,” Mark said. “We’ve missed so many social things lately. I can’t
remember the last time we had a grownup night before our honeymoon,” Angel

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said. “Good point,” Mark said. “I’ll feed her. You call your parents and ask
them. Then I can call my mom,” Mark said.
He gave Lila her bottle and then some applesauce. By the time she finished the
applesauce, she was in play mode. “So what do you think of that idea,” Angel
asked. “Great. Let us know what day you want to come,” her mom said. “I will
once we get closer to it. Talk to you later,” Angel said. “So they said yes. We
can figure out who’s staying where later.” “Now that Miss Lila has applesauce
on me,” Mark said kissing Angel. “I’ll clean her up and give her a bath. You
clean up you and call your mom. Christmas in Canada,” Angel said. “We could
stay at the house,” Mark said. “Good point. It would be perfect,” Angel said.
When Mark came into the bathroom, Angel was giving Lila her bubble bath.
“You just love the water don’t you,” Angel said as Lila splashed the water
around. Needless to say, Angel was soaked. Lila was squeaky clean. Angel
lifted her out and wrapped her in her warm piggy towel and slipped her diaper
on. “She is just so darn cute all wrapped up isn’t she,” Mark said. “Definitely,”
Angel said. Mark took her in and slipped her jammies on. Angel dried off,
curled up with Mark and read a bedtime story to Lila. By the last page, Lila was
out like a light. “I have an idea for tomorrow,” Mark whispered as they took the
baby monitor and tiptoed downstairs. “What might that be,” Angel said
teasingly. “A little of that too,” Mark said. “Thinking baby pictures aren’t you,”
Angel said. “Family and baby pictures,” Mark said. “I’ll call Lee and see if she
can come do them tomorrow,” Angel asked. “Where though,” Mark asked.
“The cove,” Angel said. “Would be perfect for everyone for Christmas too,”
Angel said. “That’s what I was thinking,” Mark said. “Sure it was,” Angel
teased as she bent over to grab one of Lila’s toys. “Don’t move,” Mark said.
“Why,” Angel said as he leaned against her. “Horndog,” Angel teased. His
hands slid under her robe that she’d slipped on. She felt his touch against her
warmth. “Tease,” Angel said. She felt him against her. “You want it don’t you,”
Mark said. “Always,” Angel replied. They had sex on the floor of their living
room. It was more intense every time they did it. Neither one of them could get
enough. After, they curled up together on the floor. “You know we can’t do this
forever,” Angel joked. “At some point we will have to actually sleep won’t we,”
Mark joked. “Definitely,” Angel replied. “I love you baby,” Mark said. “I love
you to Mark,” Angel said. He carried her upstairs to bed and they curled up
together, falling fast asleep.
The next morning, Angel and Lila got up early and went for a walk with Goldie,
and Mark called Lee to see if she could do the pictures. “Angel already called. I
should be there around noon. Need her help with something after, so it’s
perfect,” Lee said. “See you then,” Mark said. “At the cove,” Lee replied. A half
hour or so later, Angel came back with Lila and Goldie. “Welcome back ladies,”

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Mark said. He kissed Angel and Lila and gave Goldie a good puppy treat. “So
she will be here at noon. What should we wear,” Angel asked. “One should be
bathing suits, one more casual, like sundress, and one a little fancier,” Mark said.
“Got it all figured out do you,” Angel teased. “Pretty much figured it out at 3am
when Missy here woke me up,” Mark said. He took Lila upstairs and changed
her while Angel did her hair and makeup and showered. “This what you were
thinking,” Angel said as she came downstairs in her sundress. “Perfect,” Mark
said. Her string bikini was underneath. “The other part is on the hanger
upstairs. She said she wanted to do that part by the sunset,” Angel said. “So
what is this other thing that she needs your help with,” Mark asked. “A little
surprise for da-da,” Angel said. “Oh really,” he said as Lila giggled. “Yes.
Mommy has to surprise da-da somehow doesn’t she,” Angel said picking Lila
up. “Ready then,” Mark asked. “Goldie too,” Angel said. “Definitely,” Mark
said. They all headed out and locked up the house, making sure the alarm was
on and headed to the cove.
They spent a good part of the afternoon snapping away. Around 3, Angel
headed out with Lee to put her surprise together for Mark. “He is going to love
this Angel,” Lee said. “I hope so,” Angel said. Once they were finished, they
headed to the house for the last of the shots. Mark ordered dinner for them all,
and once they finished for the day, they all sat down to a relaxing dinner on the
patio. “So what is this surprise the two of you are planning,” Mark asked.
“You’ll have to wait until Christmas,” Angel said. “You know it’s going to kill
me to wait that long. One little hint,” Mark asked. “No way,” Lee replied. They
all laughed and had a nice night, then Angel put Lila to bed and Lee headed
home. “No hint eh,” Mark said. “Nope,” Angel teased. “You know I have ways
of getting it out of you,” Mark whispered as they waved goodbye to Lee. “I’m
sure you do baby, but this one is in the vault,” Angel said. “Bet you I can find
the key,” Mark said as he wrapped his arms around Angel’s waist.
“Won’t allow me one little secret eh,” Angel said. “No. Tell me,” Mark asked.
“Guess Santa won’t be bringing you anything then,” Angel said. “Both of us
have been naughty,” Mark said as he kissed her neck. “Well, I guess you will
just have to wait,” Angel teased. “One little tiny hint,” Mark pleaded as he slid
her straps from her shoulders. Angel turned the alarm on and walked up the
steps. “One little tiny hint,” Mark asked following Angel. “Okay. One hint.
White,” Angel said. “White what,” Mark asked. “That’s all you are getting
Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her and slid her dress to the floor. “Black lace eh,”
Mark noticed as she slipped her heels off. Angel got ready for bed and Mark slid
his arms around her torso. His hand moved down grazing the black lace
underwear. “Mark, don’t start,” Angel said. He kissed her neck and shoulder.
“I have to work tomorrow and I am getting sleep whether you like it or…” he cut
her off with a kiss. He slid the lace underwear to the ground and undid her bra.

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“I am getting sleep tonight,” Angel said as he kissed her neck. “And that’s
where the benefits of you working from home come in,” Mark said as he kissed
his way down her torso. Angel leaned against the counter. “Mark,” Angel said
as he worked his way back up to her lips. She slid his jeans off and he leaned
into her. He kissed her hard. She wrapped her legs around him pulling him
closer to her. He picked her up, carrying her to their bed. They made love then
curled up together under all the blankets. “One little tiny hint. White didn’t
count,” Mark said. “Okay. Candles,” Angel said. “You know I will figure this
out if it takes me until Christmas,” Mark said. “I know baby,” Angel said. He
pulled her close to him as his hand grazed her hip. “You know how much I
missed sleeping with you close to me,” Mark said. “How much,” Angel teased.
She felt him against her skin. “That much,” he whispered in her ear. He linked
fingers with her as his hand moved between her legs. She leaned into him. “You
want me don’t you,” he whispered. “Always,” Angel replied. “How much,” he
whispered. Shivers rolled down her spine. His hand slid more and he felt how
warm she was. “Good enough hint,” Angel asked. They had sex again, then
curled up together and fell asleep.
The next morning, Angel woke up to Goldie going crazy. She went in and
checked on Lila. She was out cold. She slipped down the steps and put on some
coffee. “What’s the problem Goldie,” Angel asked. She looked over at the patio
and Mark was outside. She headed out to sit with him. He was asleep on the
chaise. Angel quietly sat down on the chaise then gently climbed into his lap,
putting the baby monitor on the table. She kissed him and woke him. He kissed
her hard, rolling her onto her back. They made love without a word. After, he
lay in her arms. “Well good morning to you too,” Angel said. He kissed her
again. “Good morning sexy,” Mark replied. “She woke you up last night didn’t
she,” Angel asked. “Just once. Then Goldie started at 6AM,” Mark replied.
“Poor baby. You had to get up early,” Angel teased. “Can’t believe you slept
through all that,” Mark said. “Must have been tired,” Angel joked. “I made
coffee. Come inside,” Angel said. The minute the door opened, Lila started
waking up. “I’ll get her, you have some coffee,” Angel said heading up the
steps.
“Well good morning beautiful,” Angel said as she picked Lila up out of bed. She
changed her, and brought her downstairs. Mark was on the sofa reading the
paper. “I think you might just be hungry. What would you say to some
breakfast,” Angel said. Lila giggled. “Now how can anyone resist that giggle,”
Mark said. Angel put a bottle together and got some applesauce out for
breakfast. Mark fed Lila, and Angel made some breakfast for them. They had
breakfast, then Angel turned on her computer. Her mouth dropped when she
saw the number of emails. She went through and filtered them all until it got
down to a reasonable number. Mark got some work done as well. Angel played

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with Lila while she got her work done. Half days were perfect. She spent the
afternoons with Lila, and got her work done during the morning hours.
“Babe, got some bad news,” Mark said. Angel came in with Lila. “What’s up,”
Angel asked. “I have to go to New York,” Mark said. “What for,” Angel asked.
“A meeting. We’ve finally got the office there together, but now we need to have
a board meeting. They’re requesting it be there. Can you live without me for a
day or two,” Mark asked. “When,” Angel replied. “Next week. Wednesday and
Thursday,” Mark replied. “I guess I will have to share you with the rest of the
world,” Angel said. Mark booked his flight. “I promise I’ll be home Thursday
night. This thing always ends up being last minute,” Mark said. Angel kissed
him then headed back into the other room with Lila. Angel called Aubrey.
“Wednesday and Thursday next week,” Angel said as Mark headed into the
room. “Great. See you then,” Angel said. “Making plans to party already are
you,” Mark said. “She’s going to come help me with Miss Lila while you are
away,” Angel said. Angel put Lila on her play mat, and Mark sat down with
them. “I totally don’t want to go, but I have to,” Mark said. “It’s okay baby.
We’ll be just fine,” Angel said. “I’ll get Andy to keep an eye on the place for
me,” Mark said. “We’ll be fine. Nothing is going to go wrong,” Angel said.
“Still, I’ll tell him to carry his cell. Don’t want to come home to problems,” Mark
said. Angel kissed him and Lila giggled. “Well gigglepuss,” Angel said. Mark
wrapped his arms around Angel. “We definitely make beautiful babies don’t
we,” Mark said. “We make little giggle pusses,” Angel said. He kissed her neck.
“The christening is this weekend. We have everything,” Angel asked. “Yep.
Still have to put dinner together for thanksgiving,” Mark said. “I forgot all about
it,” Angel said. “Already organized. All we have left to do is grocery shopping
and we are good,” Mark said. “Who did we invite,” Angel asked. “Just the
gang,” Mark said. “Okay,” Angel said. “Everyone is bringing something for
dinner. All we need is the turkey,” Mark said.

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Chapter 25
Sunday came quickly. They got up in the morning and headed to church with
Lila. Chase and Crystal followed behind them. “Well Miss Lila,” Angel said as
Lila fell asleep in the car. “I’m still nervous about going,” Mark said. “We’ll be
fine Mark,” Angel said. “What happens if someone gets into the house,” Mark
asked. “Stop making me nervous,” Angel said. “I just don’t want anything to
happen to either of you,” Mark said. “We’ll think about what to do later,” Angel
said.
They headed into the church and all their friends were there. Mark and Angel’s
parents were there, as well as their siblings. Chase sat beside Crystal and played
with Lily during the service, then they had the christening. “What a perfect little
girl,” Crystal whispered. They finished the ceremony, then headed back to the
house. The smell of turkey wafted through the house. “Chase, can I talk to you a
second,” Mark asked as the two headed outside. “So how long you two here for
this time,” Angel asked. “I have to head back tomorrow, but Mark has to stay for
a few meetings,” Crystal said. “So he’s coming back for the weekend then,”
Angel asked. “His first non-work weekend in a while,” Crystal said. “He
actually took a few weeks off,” Angel joked. “He’s not back until December,”
Crystal replied.
“What’s up Mark,” Chase said as they closed the patio door and headed to the
table. “I have to go out of town this week and I am a little nervous about leaving
Lila and Angel at home. Can you keep an eye on them for me while I’m away,”
Mark asked. “Sure, but I think they’ll probably be fine,” Chase said. “Still. After
what happened last week,” Mark said. “What happened,” Chase asked. Mark
told him about James getting into the house and what happened with Angel. “I
get it now. Do you want me to stay at the house with them,” Chase offered.
“Could you,” Mark asked. “As long as Crystal okay’s it, I’m good to stay,”
Chase said.
The guys headed inside as everyone started showing up. Angel got Lila changed
and fed, and brought her downstairs. They sat down and relaxed for most of the
afternoon, then had a relaxing dinner. The guys mostly hung around watching
football, while the ladies sat outside with Lila. By about 7, Lila was dead asleep
in Angel’s arms. “I’m going to sneak her upstairs to bed,” Angel said slipping
into the house. Mark followed her upstairs. She put Lila to bed then felt Mark’s
arms around her. “What would you do if,” Mark teased. “We have a house full
of people,” Angel said quietly. He took her hand and walked towards their
bedroom. “Mark, not now. Not with everyone…” He cut her off with a kiss and
pinned her against the wall. “After,” Angel said. He kissed her neck, then
moved lower. “Not while they are all here,” Angel said. He kissed her again

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then picked her up, wrapping her legs around him and sliding her skirt up
around her waist. They had sex, then headed back downstairs.
Everyone started to head home. Chase got Angel outside alone so he could talk
to her. “Why didn’t you tell me about what James the idiot did,” Chase asked.
“It’s done. It doesn’t matter anymore,” Angel said. “Him breaking into the
damn house and almost raping you was nothing was it,” Chase said as his voice
started to raise. “Shhh. Mark took care of it. He’s back in jail,” Angel said. “No
wonder he wants me to stay,” Chase said. “What do you mean stay,” Angel
said. “He wants me to stay at the house with you until he gets home,” Chase
said. “You told him no right,” Angel said. “No. I told him I would,” Chase
replied. “We can’t be under the same roof for two days Chase,” Angel said.
“Too much temptation eh,” Chase said. “Can it. I’ll be fine,” Angel said. “No. I
am staying. I’ll sleep on the damn sofa,” Chase said. “Stop with the crap. Why
didn’t you tell me what he did? Why didn’t you talk to me?” “I can’t deal with
this now okay. It’s done. That’ s all I know,” Angel said. “He tries to screw you
in front of your husband and you say nothing,” Chase said. “Mark and I were in
the middle of a fight. If I hadn’t demanded to sleep in my room,” Angel said.
“Don’t you dare blame yourself. The guy is a nut job. I wish you’d let me kick
his ass a long time ago,” Chase said. “It’s going to be hard enough being here
alone, but having you here won’t make it better,” Angel said. “I’ll sleep on the
sofa. I’ll sleep in the damn chair beside you if I need to,” Chase said. “Fine,”
Angel said with tears streaming down her face. “Let me protect you while Mark
is gone. Please,” Chase said as he held Angel in his arms. “I don’t want anyone
else hurt,” Angel said. “Like he could hurt me,” Chase said. “He had a gun
Chase,” Angel replied. “Like I said,” he said. “I can’t tell him how scared I am.
It’s just stupid,” Angel said wiping the tears from her face. “No it’s not. I
wouldn’t want Crystal alone if something like that happened to her either,”
Chase said.
Mark and Crystal headed outside as everyone else said goodbye. “We all okay
out here,” Mark asked. “I think we’ll be okay,” Chase said. Angel wiped the
tears away and headed inside. Crystal and Chase stayed outside and talked.
“What,” Mark said walking over to Angel and wrapping his arms around her.
“It’s nothing,” Angel said. “You are crying. It’s something,” Mark said. “Why
did you really ask Chase to stay here while you were gone,” Angel asked. “The
same reason why it would make you feel safer,” Mark said. “He won’t get out.
He can’t,” Angel said. “That’s why I asked him to stay and why Andy and
Aubrey are keeping an eye on the place,” Mark said. He kissed Angel. “If he
does, then Chase is here and Andy is on alert,” Mark said. “If he does Mark,”
Angel said. “Then you two are on the first damn plane to the other house,” Mark
said. “I guess having him here won’t be that bad,” Angel said. “And who
knows. You two could have a blast,” Mark joked. “Don’t even,” Angel teased

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and mustered a laugh. He kissed her. “And I will miss you every minute,” he
said.
Angel and Mark walked Crystal and Chase out. “You need anything,” Chase
said. “I know,” Angel replied. She gave Crystal a hug goodbye and they headed
to their hotel. Mark and Angel headed upstairs to bed. Angel checked on Lila
one last time. “She’s fine,” Mark said taking her hand. “Such a little princess,”
Angel said. “Come on to bed,” Mark said. They headed into their room, and got
ready for bed. “You aren’t going to tell me are you,” Mark asked. “What,”
Angel replied. “Why you were crying,” Mark said. “I just don’t want James
causing any more problems. He hurt you and would have done more if he could
have. What the hell would have happened if Lila was here? If you hadn’t been
here,” Angel said. Mark wrapped his arms around Angel. “You were so
worried, but you wouldn’t tell me. That’s why I asked Chase to stay. I knew
you were scared but were trying to hide it,” Mark said. “I didn’t want to scare
you into staying home,” Angel said. “We’ll all be okay. James can’t hurt us
baby. Not you, not me and not Lila. He can’t do anything from where he is,”
Mark said. He wrapped his arms around Angel and she held him close. He
kissed her. “He can’t hurt us. He can’t break us up. Nothing,” Mark said. “We
are totally unbreakable.” He kissed her again. “Mark,” Angel asked. “Yes
love,” he replied. “I love you,” Angel said. “I love you too baby,” Mark said.
That night they curled up together and snuggled their way to sleep.
The next morning, Angel woke up with Mark’s arms still around her. Lila was
beside her. She was one hungry girl. After she ate, Lila fell back asleep. Mark
kissed Angel’s neck. “Good morning to you too,” Angel said. She slipped out of
bed and took Lila back to her crib. When she came back in, she slipped back into
bed. Mark kissed her hard and wrapped his arms around her. “And what might
I do for you this morning,” Angel said. She wrapped her legs around him. “I
can think of a few things,” Mark said as he kissed her neck, then slowly moved
down her body. “You sure you have to go on Wednesday,” Angel asked.
“Why? Miss waking up like this in the morning,” he said as he licked her. “Shit
Mark,” Angel said as he licked and teased his way back up to her lips. “I take
that as a yes,” he said as he kissed her. He made love to her for what felt like
hours. “Thank goodness for holiday Monday’s,” Angel said. A few hours later,
Lila woke up and was ready for play. Angel got her all cleaned up, then fed her
and brought her downstairs. “So, I’m thinking we hit the beach this afternoon
with Chase and Crystal,” Mark said. “Sounds good. You watch her while I get
changed then,” Angel said. She hopped upstairs and slipped on her bikini and
shorts, then headed back downstairs. She watched him from around the corner
play with Lila. He was like a totally new person. Lila was the center of his
world. He was so good with her. Angel snuck back in and took a few pictures of
them, then Mark went and got changed. When he came back down, Lila was

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dressed in her bathing suit too. “Ready,” Mark asked as they headed outside.
“Where to,” Angel asked. “The cove. Baby bag is in the car,” Mark said. Goldie
hopped into the car with them and they headed down to meet Chase and
Crystal.
Lee called as they were pulling in to park. “The pictures are done. Do you want
me to bring them down,” Lee asked. “Bring the proofs. Just leave them at the
house. I don’t want Chase and Crystal to see them,” Angel said. “Will do. I’ll
slide them under the door for you,” Lee said. “Oh. And that other special one,
framed the one you chose and you can come get it whenever. It’s all wrapped.”
“Thanks a million girl. I owe you one,” Angel said as she hung up. “They’re
finished,” Mark asked. “She’s dropping the proofs off. We can choose from
there,” Angel said. “Awesome,” Mark said. They headed to the beach and got
everything set up, then Chase and Crystal showed. “Well hello all,” Crystal said
as her and Chase sat down. Lila giggled at Crystal. “What’s so funny princess,”
Crystal said. Lila smiled and leaned into Mark. “Daddy’s little girl already eh,”
Chase said. “Definitely,” Mark said. “We’ve had many a late night date
already.” “And I have the adorable pictures to prove it,” Angel said. They all
relaxed and joked a while then went in for a swim. Lila giggled at the waves and
kicked the water around. “Little fishie,” Angel said. Angel brought Lila back in
and curled up on the beach with her a while. Chase came in behind her. “You
okay,” Chase asked. “I told him. I just thank my lucky stars that his mom had
Lila that night,” Angel said. “Stop thinking about it. It isn’t going to help,”
Chase said. Mark’s phone rang. Angel reached for it and saw a name flash on
the screen that she thought she’d never see – Ashley.
She was another of Mark’s girlfriends before they met. He’d separated from
Lexie and had been with her a few weeks when he met Angel. Ashley was
perfect in every way, at least according to Angel. She had long blond hair,
perfect body, perfect everything. Why was she calling Mark? Angel answered it.
“Is Mark there,” she asked. “He’s actually in the water. Is it urgent,” Angel
asked. “Can you get a message to him subtly? I need to see him tonight,” she
said. “No problem. Where can he reach you,” Angel asked. “He has the
directions to my place in New York,” she said. “I’ll pass that on,” Angel said
hanging up. Angel put his phone in his shoe and headed towards the car with
the keys. “What,” Chase said. “Staying with Ashley in New York is he,” Angel
said. “Don’t. Sit still for one minute,” Chase said. He called Mark in from the
water. He told him about Ashley’s call. “She asked me to stay with her and I
said I had to work,” Mark said. “Did you tell her about Lila? Or where you
conveniently leaving that out as well as the fact that we are married,” Angel
asked. “She knows. I told her a long time ago when we first met. She wants me
to come over. What did she say?” “She said she needs to see you tonight Mark.
She must be in town. Guess you don’t need to go on that trip to get laid after

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all,” Angel said walking down the beach. Goldie followed behind. “I am going
for a damn meeting. You want proof,” Mark said. Angel stopped. “Yeah,”
Angel said. She continued walking down the beach.
Angel came into the house and grabbed the pictures from Lee, then fed Lila and
bathed her and put her to bed. The phone rang. It was Chase. “What,” Angel
said. “He isn’t there,” Chase said. “Probably getting laid as we speak,” Angel
said. “Would you stop. Crystal said she was going to talk to him. I figured
they’d be there,” Chase said. Angel went down the steps and checked the patio.
“They’re outside,” Angel said. “Talk to him. That Ashley chick is definitely a
piece of work. Mark called her and told her that he was going to New York on
business which didn’t include seeing her. Girl must have been beggin,” Chase
said. “That’s nice Chase,” Angel said. “I’ll see you in the morning. Tell my
woman to get back here,” Chase said. “Whatever,” Angel said. “You know you
were wrong to assume. Chill. It’s your last night before his trip,” Chase said.
“Fine,” Angel replied.
Angel put her satin robe on and came downstairs for some tea. She’d been
feeling a little odd for a few days. She figured it was all stress. Chase saw her
and came inside. “I’m going to head back to the hotel. See ya later,” Crystal
said. “Thanks again,” Mark said as he came into the kitchen. “You don’t really
think I would do anything with her do you,” Mark asked. “I don’t know. I
really don’t,” Angel said. “What do I have to do Angel,” Mark said. “Why the
hell would she call anyway,” Angel asked. “She’s in town. She figured I would
have changed my mind about you, and want her back. When I told her she was
wrong, she backed off. That’s all. That call was one last try. She knew who she
was talking to,” Mark said. “And,” Angel said. “I told her the only woman I
wanted to be with, is the one I am married to,” Mark said. “Fine,” Angel said. “I
know it’s hard okay, just trust me for once. Please.” He kissed Angel and leaned
her against the counter. “I guess so,” Angel said as he kissed her. “Where’s Miss
Lila,” Mark asked. “In bed,” Angel replied. He untied her robe. Black lace
teddy was hidden underneath. “Oh really,” he said. Angel turned and poured
her tea. “Oh no you don’t,” Mark said. She stirred the sugar into her tea and
took a sip. She walked towards the TV room. Mark grabbed the tea from her
hand and put it on the counter.
“What,” Angel asked. He kissed her hard leaning her against the doorway of the
kitchen. She tried to slide away from him, but he pulled her to him. “Mark,”
Angel teased. “Tea can be remade,” he said picking her up and flipping her over
his shoulder. “Would you cut it out,” Angel said. She pulled the belt from his
jeans half way up the steps. “Now you are totally in for it,” Mark said. They
came into the bedroom and he locked the door, laying her onto the bed. He slid
the robe from her revealing the practically see-through black lace teddy she had
on. “I see you aren’t mad anymore,” Mark said. “Says who,” Angel said. He

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kissed her hard. He reached for something in his drawer. “Don’t you even think
it,” Angel said. She heard a click. “Mark,” Angel said as he slowly teased her.
“Undo them or else,” Angel said. “Or else what,” Mark teased. “Undo them,”
Angel said. He slid the lingerie up to reveal her smooth skin, and licked and
teased her from her neck to her toes. “Undo them,” Angel asked. “Turn over,”
Mark said. “Mark don’t you even think it,” Angel said. “Turn over,” he said.
She did as he asked. “Undo them,” Angel asked. “Not yet,” he said. He came
closer to her and they had sex. “Mark,” Angel said. Once……Twice. He moved
and tried something he hadn’t before. “Mark,” Angel said as his hand slid over
her hip and his fingers touched her. When they finally finished, he undid the
cuffs. “Totally going to have to hide those while you are gone,” Angel said.
“Holy…..crap,” Mark said as their hearts raced in unison. “You really have to go
tomorrow,” Angel asked. “Don’t worry. You’ll be begging for a break by the
time I leave,” Mark said. “Oh really,” Angel teased. “Dare me,” he teased back.
“Nope. Definitely not,” Angel said. Lily woke up. Angel got up, slipped her
robe on and checked on her.
Lily’s face was red and her eyes were puffy. “What’s wrong baby,” Angel said.
She changed her, then tried to feed her. Nothing. “You just had a nightmare
didn’t you,” Angel said. She rocked Lila back to sleep and calmed her down.
Angel gave her the little teddy bear from her crib, and Lila fell back asleep.
Angel tucked her back into bed and came back to their bedroom. Mark was in
the shower. Angel climbed into bed and had just closed her eyes when the water
stopped. Mark came back into their bedroom and curled up in bed with her.
“Faker,” he whispered in her ear as a smirk came across her face. He wrapped
his arm around her waist. “You want to fake sleeping do you. I guess I know
how to wake you up then,” Mark said. “Okay, okay,” Angel said. He kissed her.
“And how is Princess Lila,” Mark asked. “She had a nightmare, and believe it or
not, I think she has a tooth coming in,” Angel said. “Fun,” Mark said as he
kissed Angel’s neck. “You were being serious weren’t you,” Angel asked.
“Damn right I was. You’re going to be begging me to go so you can sleep,” Mark
said. Angel laughed. “Daring me are you,” he said. “No. Just sleep for
tonight,” Angel said. “Okay. You get a nap. That’s all,” Mark teased. They
curled up and went to sleep.
The next morning, Angel woke up to teasing. He’d slid under the covers and
decided on a new way to wake her up. “Holy shit,” Angel said as Mark grabbed
her hand. His other hand slid down. One finger, then two. “Oh….. my……
Mark…” “Mmmm,” was all she heard. He moved up and kissed and licked her
all the way to her lips. They made love over and over that morning. Lila woke
up, and Mark went and got her from bed and cleaned her up. “Hey princess,”
Angel said as Mark handed Lila over. She giggled. “You love daddy don’t you,”
Angel said. “Da-da,” Lila said. “Yes. He loves you too,” Angel said. “Ma-ma,”

220. 2
Lila said as she raised her arms and motioned for mommy to come to her. She
wrapped her arms around Angel and hugged her neck. “Thank you baby,”
Angel said. “She learns so much from her daddy,” Mark teased. “Ha ha,” Angel
teased. Mark moved over and curled up with Angel. “Do you want to see the
pictures Lee took,” Angel asked. “Where,” Mark asked. “Drawer. Flip the light
on,” Angel said. Mark looked at them. “She is adorable no matter what shot we
do,” Mark said. “When was that one taken,” Angel asked as one shot came out
of the three of them curled up together by the rocks. “When you decided to go
close your eyes for a minute. She was playing with Lila. When she brought her
over, we were both curled up by the rocks together and Lila was out cold. They
picked out 3 or 4 different shots, and Angel called to get copies made for the
family. “So where’s the surprise,” Mark asked. “Christmas,” Angel replied.
“She didn’t sneak anything else in there did she,” Mark asked. “Nope,” Angel
replied. “What time is your flight?” “8. Chase and Crystal are going to look
after her until we get back,” Mark said. “From where,” Angel asked. “Get
dressed and you’ll see,” Mark said.
Angel got herself and Lila dressed and once Chase and Crystal showed, they
headed off. “Where on earth are you taking me,” Angel asked. “Somewhere
where we can be alone,” Mark said. “That could be a million places,” Angel said.
“It’s 10 am. My flight doesn’t leave until 8,” Mark said. “Guess we’re going to
have a busy day then,” Angel said. They pulled into the marina. “Come on,”
Mark said. Angel laughed and they headed for the boat. “Only you would think
of this at the last minute,” Angel said. He kissed her and leaned her against the
railing. “You really expected me to go without getting you all to myself for a few
hours,” Mark asked. “Yes,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “Ah newlyweds,”
some strangers said as they saw Mark and Angel. Angel laughed. “I have an
idea,” Mark whispered in her ear. “Don’t even suggest,” Angel said. “By air, by
sea right,” Mark whispered. “No. Not on this boat Mark,” Angel said. He
kissed her again. The boat headed to shore and Mark and Angel were the first
two off. They headed to the cottage. He chased her all the way there.
“You know, you are just burning off energy you could be saving,” Mark joked.
“Oh really. So are you,” Angel teased back. They got to the door and Mark
kissed her hard. His arms wrapped around her tight. Angel got the door open
and went inside. He leaned her against the wall. “Damn,” Angel said as he slid
her dress off. “Won’t be needing that for the rest of the day,” Mark said. She slid
into the bedroom and he stopped her. “What,” Angel said. He picked her up,
wrapping her legs around him and kissed her. He walked into the living area
and laid her on the rug. “This is new,” Angel said. He slid his jeans off. He
made love to her on the rug, then the sofa, then in bed. Mark’s phone rang.
Angel went to grab it and he grabbed it from her hand. “Thanks,” Mark said
hanging up. “What was that about,” Angel asked. “Nothin,” Mark said kissing

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her again. Angel checked the clock. It was only 3pm. “Tell me,” Angel said.
“Nothing. Really,” Mark said. Angel kissed him again. He curled up with her
and he fell asleep. Her mind was reeling. She snuck the phone and went to the
bathroom. Ashley’s number again. “Don’t freak. What was the thanks thing
for,” Angel asked herself. A text came through.
I’ll pick you up from the airport at 11:30. Can’t wait. Getting wet
just thinking about it. – Ash
Angel forwarded the text to Chase and added:
Right. I am on my way.
She got dressed and slipped his phone back in his jeans. “Where are you going,”
he asked. “Check your text messages Mark,” Angel said. He looked at it. Angel
got up and headed to the door. Mark pulled his jeans and shirt on. “No. Let me
explain this,” Mark said. “I’m done with the excuses. You want her, take her
Mark. I’ll find something to do while you’re away. Maybe I need that refresher
about who’s better,” Angel said walking out. He grabbed his keys and pulled his
shoes on and ran after her. “Would you stop.... Angel……It’s not what you
think. She’s picking me up. I told her I would set her up with one of the guys
from my office that she likes. That’s all,” Mark said. “You really expect me to…”
He cut her off with a kiss. “You trust me. I know you don’t think I would ever
go back to her,” Mark said. Angel turned and walked towards the dock. He
grabbed her hand. He dialed with the other. “Ash. Tell her why you are so
freakin gung ho to see me,” Mark said. He pressed speaker. “Other than the fact
that he is one major hottie, there’s a guy I sort of like at his office and he’s going
to set us up. I just know I can…” He turned off the speakerphone. “Don’t need
the gory details okay,” Mark said. He hung up.
“Listen to me before you get on that boat,” Mark said. “What,” Angel said. He
grabbed her hand and led her back to the trail to the cottage. “No Mark. I am
going home,” Angel said. He kissed her hard. He picked her up and carried her
back up the short path to the cottage. “Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her again.
He laid her on the hammock he’d put up years before in the back yard. Angel
went to get up and he grabbed her hands. “I am going home,” Angel said. He
kissed her again. She went to get up. “You get up, you are coming inside. There
will be no taking off today,” Mark said. Angel got up, and he flipped her over
his shoulder carrying her into the bedroom. “Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her
again and pulled her dress off. “Would you stop this,” Angel said. He kissed
her again she grabbed for her dress, and he pushed it further away. He slid her
g-string off and pulled her towards him. “Enough,” Angel said. “Not enough,”

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he said as they made love again. His plan to drain her of her energy was
working. “Would I want you this much if I wanted to be with someone else,”
Mark asked. “Yes,” Angel said. He kissed her hard again. “Want to re-think
that answer,” Mark asked. “No,” Angel said getting up and walking towards the
door. He pinned her against the wall and kissed her again. “We have to go back
sometime,” Angel said. He kissed her again as his hand slid down her torso
towards her warmth.
By the time, Angel and Mark got back to the house, Mark had just enough time
to grab his bags, give Lila hugs and kisses goodbye and head to the airport.
“Coming,” Mark asked. “Don’t even,” Angel said as they headed out to the car.
She dropped him off at the airport and gave him a long kiss goodbye. They got
stuck in a little traffic part way, and Angel gave him something he wasn’t likely
to forget on the plane ride. “Damn. One…..way ….to….shit…….surprise me…..
oh damn….” Angel sat up just as they were pulling into the turnoff for the
airport. “Holy crap,” Mark said. “Have a good trip,” Angel said as he kissed her
hard. “Make a man want to delay his flight and everything,” Mark said. Angel
kissed him and hopped out of the car, grabbing his bag from the trunk. “I cannot
wait to get home, “ Mark said. He kissed Angel again. “Go. You’ll be late,”
Angel said. “I love you,” he said as he headed into the airport. Angel pulled out
and headed home.
When she walked in, Chase was sitting with Lila as she slept on his chest.
“Hey,” he said trying not to wake Lila. Angel took her and tucked her into bed
then came back downstairs. “Where’s Crystal,” Angel asked. “She headed home
just before Mark’s flight left,” Chase said. “What was the text all about?”
“Misunderstanding,” Angel said. “So you two are okay then,” Chase said.
“Completely exhausted, but yes. We’re fine,” Angel said. “You did that trick
didn’t you,” Chase asked. “What might that be,” Angel said. “The oh darn stuck
in traffic what will we do to pass the time trick,” Chase said. A smirk came over
her face. “Didn’t want to get on that plane did he,” Chase teased. “Nope,”
Angel replied. “You are the queen of freakin tease I tell you,” Chase said. “That
I definitely am,” Angel said heading up the steps. “Where you want me,” Chase
asked following her. “Wherever,” Angel said. “I’m going to be down here a bit
then. If you need me,” he said. “Yeah. Okay Chase. Going to take a long hot
bubble bath, then I am turning in,” Angel said. “Okay,” Chase said. Angel
headed in and ran the water for her bath. Once the tub was filled, she stepped in
and leaned back. She thought back to when she was dating Chase. All the
things she used to do to completely tease him.
One time stood out in her memory. He’d been at work all night, and it was
beyond dead. She showed up in a trench coat. He tried to avoid her all night,
but didn’t have much choice. He went to do a dance for her and since nobody

223. 2
was there, she flipped it on him and did one for him. Within 10 minutes, he was
packed up and outside backing her into the truck. She’d worn a small g-string,
and an all lace teddy with a pair of heels. She remembers them getting stuck in
traffic on the way back to her hotel and pulling that move on Chase. She opened
her eyes and he was in the doorway. “What’s up,” Angel asked. “Had to do it
didn’t you. Had to pull that move,” Chase said. “Worked on you that time
didn’t it,” Angel teased. She went to step out of the tub, and grabbed her towel.
He grabbed it from her hand. “Chase,” Angel said grabbing the towel. “Even
hotter now,” he said. “I told you this idea of you staying was a bad one,” Angel
said. He looked at her. She wrapped the towel around herself and went to brush
her teeth before bed. “What,” Angel said when she noticed Chase watching her.
“Damn,” Chase said. “Don’t even think it,” Angel said as she went to step out of
the bathroom. She walked into her bedroom and slipped Mark’s shirt on. She
loved the feel of his shirt against her skin. Chase was at the doorway. “Don’t
even go there Chase. I am exhausted,” Angel said. She climbed into bed and
turned out the light. She felt something on the bed beside her. “Yes Chase,”
Angel said. He kissed her.
“We aren’t doing this Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her again. They came up
for air. “Chase, go,” Angel said. She felt his jeans slide off and something
tearing. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her again and he pulled the shirt up to
kiss her. She could feel him breathe in her ear. “Yes,” he whispered. “Chase.
No,” Angel said. He leaned against her and pulled her leg around him. “Chase,
don’t,” Angel said. “See what you did,” Chase said. “No Chase,” Angel said.
She could feel him. Inches from penetrating her. His body heat raising her
temperature. He moved closer and Angel tried to squirm away. “Not here
Chase. Not in our bed,” Angel said. She felt him get up, then pull her to her feet.
He leaned her against the wall. “Chase. No,” Angel said. He kissed her hard.
He felt her kiss him back. The entire house was dark. He walked her into the
bathroom and sat her on the counter. He kissed her and pulled her to him. His
body heat made her sweat. He kissed her hard again. “Chase. We can’t do this.
What about…” he silenced her and had sex with her against the counter. “Oh
damn…..Chase. Holy crap…….Chase. It was over as fast as it had started. “I
have wanted to do that since I saw you at the beach yesterday,” Chase said.
“Now what the hell do we do Chase,” Angel said. “Don’t even think about
more.” “I’ll tuck you in,” Chase said. “No. I think I can do that myself thank
you,” Angel said. She headed back to bed after cleaning up, and Chase got
dressed, then laid on the bed beside her. “If you change your mind,” he teased.
“Enough,” Angel said. Chase laughed and Angel smirked. “Don’t even try it
when I am asleep either. I’m keeping one eye open,” Angel said. “Okay one
eye,” Chase teased.

224. 2
The next morning she slept in. She went in to check on Lila and she wasn’t in
bed. She went downstairs, and Chase was playing with her on the floor. “Good
morning sleepy head. Coffee’s on,” he said as Angel turned her computer on.
“Don’t you have a meeting or something,” Angel asked. “Trying to get rid of me
are you,” he teased. “No. Didn’t you say something about a meeting though,”
Angel asked. “2 today. Got a little while. You know she can talk already,”
Chase said. “What else did she say other than Mama, Dada and Baba,” Angel
asked. “Ga-na, Na-na,” Chase said. “Was trying to teach her to say gramma or
nana,” Angel said. “She has those two down,” Chase said. “Something tells me
that na-na means banana though.” “Why do you say that,” Angel said. She
looked over and Lila was eating banana. “New food day. Alright,” Angel said.
“Try something else. What you got,” he asked. “Sweet potatoes, peas, carrots,
peaches,” Angel said. “Bring a little of each,” he said. He fed her like a pro.
“Interesting,” Angel said. “What’s that,” he replied. “Only half on your shirt,”
she laughed. Angel made some baby cereal and tried that with some peaches in
it. “Okay…..that’s better. Yummy isn’t it Lila,” Angel said as Chase tried to
clean the baby food off his favorite shirt. Lila giggled and smiled. “She has two
teeth already,” Angel said. “Guess we are going grocery shopping then,” Chase
said. “Definitely. After your meeting. We’ll go tonight. She’ll be quieter,”
Angel said. Lila finished her breakfast, then Angel got her to try a sippy cup.
She held on and drank the water. Angel called Mark. “Hey baby. Good
morning,” Mark said. “Cereal and Peaches,” Angel said. “No kidding,” Mark
said. “And bananas,” Chase said. “She is growing up so quick,” Mark said.
“She has two teeth already,” Angel said. “Good thing she isn’t breast feeding
anymore then,” Mark teased. “Only get teeth marks from one person now,”
Angel teased. “Anything else new,” Mark asked. “She said Ga-na and Na-na,”
Angel said. “My mom will flip,” Mark said. “Missed you last night,” Angel
said. “After that little surprise in the car, I couldn’t stop thinking about you
either,” Mark said. “Love you baby,” Angel said. “I love you too. You and
Lila,” Mark said.

225. 2
Chapter 26
Mark finally got home that Thursday night. Angel came to the airport with Lila
to pick him up, dropping Chase off on the way. The minute he walked through
the terminal doors, a smile came across his face. He kissed Angel, wrapping his
arms around her, then kissed Lila. He grabbed Lila from Angel’s arms and they
headed to the car. “So how was the trip,” Angel asked. “Long and definitely
glad to be home,” he said kissing Angel again. They hopped into the car and
headed back to the house. “So when did Chase leave,” Mark asked. “Dropped
him off just before we came to pick you up,” Angel said. “Da-da,” Lila said.
Mark smiled. “Practicing was she,” Mark joked. “She definitely missed you,”
Angel said.
They headed home and helped Mark unpack, then Angel tucked Lila into bed
and came into their room for some alone time with Mark. “I still can’t believe
you did that,” he said. “Did what,” Angel said undoing the buttons of her dress.
He looked over. “You know,” Mark replied. “Oh that? Had to remind you
what you’d be missing,” Angel said. “You did alright,” he said as he took the
empty suitcase off the bed. Angel got up, tossing the dress into the laundry.
“Had to do the lace didn’t you,” Mark said. He looked in her direction and saw
the white lace teddy she had on. She slipped out of her heels. “So did you and
Chase have fun,” Mark asked. “Meaning,” Angel asked. “You know what I am
asking,” Mark said. “He slept in the other room. Was definitely a big help with
Lila,” Angel said. “Nothing happened,” Mark asked. “Nope. Got some work
done, played with Lila. He took Goldie out in the morning and at night, so no.
Nothing else happened,” Angel said. He wrapped his arms around her as she
turned to face him. “I love you,” Mark said. “I love you too,” Angel teased.
“How much,” he asked. Angel kissed him. He picked her up, wrapping her legs
around him and carried her to their bed. “You really want to know don’t you,”
Angel said. “Yes,” Mark replied. Angel slipped his dress pants off, then his shirt
and tie. He kissed her hard. “God I missed you,” Mark said. “Missed you too,”
Angel said as he pulled her close to him. He kissed her again sliding the white
lace off. He kissed and teased her, then they made love. They took their time.
He wanted to cherish every moment. He had missed this.
The minute he’d got on his flight, he’d been tempted. A woman sitting a few
seats away, resembling someone in playboy, was trying to get his attention. She
had asked to change seats to sit closer to him to no avail. He concentrated on
Angel. On how happy he was with Lila and Angel in his life. He tried to get
some work done, finding a little surprise from Angel in his carry-on. It was one
of the pictures of them all together on the beach. It made him smile. Everything
was so perfect at home again. He had Angel back. His daughter was happy and
giggly 24 hours a day. What else could he ask for?

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He stepped off the flight and headed off to his hotel. When he got there, Ashley
was waiting in the lobby. “Don’t start. I’ll get him here in a little while,” Mark
said checking in. He headed upstairs to unpack and Ashley followed. “You
know that I would rather have you,” she said wrapping her arms around him.
“Back off. Not going to happen – ever,” Mark said. He grabbed the phone and
called the office. “Is Alan around? Yes please,” Mark said. “Hey Alan. You still
coming by for a welcome drink,” Mark asked. “Definitely. So who is this chick,”
he asked. “See you in 15,” Mark said hanging up. “Done.” “Still Mark. You sure
I couldn’t just have you instead,” she asked pressing herself against him.
“Tempting, but no,” he replied. He pulled out the picture of Angel and Lila.
“Ah. Now I understand,” she said. “As I told you before. Barking up the wrong
damn tree Ash,” Mark said. “Thanks for the hook up Mark,” Ashley said. “No
prob. Now let me get changed,” he said.
That night, after ditching Ashley, they had headed out for a guy’s night. The one
place that Mark never thought he would find himself – a strip club. “She would
so kick my butt if she ever knew I was here,” Mark said. “Tight leash,” Alan
said. “No. Just would kick my ass,” Mark said. Mark tried to remain
professional. The woman from the plane was there. She walked towards him.
“You know, I really should catch some shut eye,” Mark said. “It’s only 11:30
Mark,” Alan said. “Still. I should. Be home Thursday. Then back to a lot of
sleepless nights,” Mark said. “Cool. See you at the office in the morning then,”
Alan said. Mark ducked out of the bar and headed back to his hotel. He walked
into the lobby and decided to stop for a drink. He missed Angel. At that exact
moment, he realized just how much.
A woman approached him in the lounge. “This seat taken,” she asked. “No,”
Mark said. Mark sipped his drink as the lady tried to make a pass at him. “So
how long you in town for,” she asked. “How do you know I am from out of
town,” Mark asked. “California accent. So the answer,” she asked. “Leaving
Thursday to go home to my baby girl and my wife,” Mark said with an odd
sense of pride. “That’s nice,” she replied. “Been here a week. Hotels can
definitely get lonely.” “They definitely can. Thank goodness I am only here for a
day and a bit more,” Mark said. “If you ever want some company,” she said.
“Think I’ll be fine,” he said finishing the rest of his drink. “See ya around.” He
got up and headed to his room.
He headed into the office the next day. He felt like he was wearing a sign that
said hit on me and I will give you a raise. He got some work done, then noticed
an email from Angel.

227. 2
Miss you already. Had to sleep all alone last night in that big bed.
Missed the feel of your hands on my skin. Your kiss on my neck.
Love you.
He smiled. “You ready for your meeting,” one of the assistants asked. “Thanks.
Can you do me a little favor? Can you get a dozen sterling roses sent to this
address? Tell them to put this on the card,” he said handing her a piece of paper.
“Here’s the card number. I need her to get them tomorrow morning,” Mark said.
“No problem,” she replied. He went in and did his speech. All he kept thinking
about was that email.
He headed home that night and called Angel. “Hey there stranger,” Angel said.
“She still awake,” Mark asked. “It’s after 8. She’s a snoring away,” Angel
replied. “Good,” Mark said. “Why do you ask oh hot handsome one,” Angel
teased. “Where are you,” he asked. “In the bathtub,” Angel replied. “Do I ever
wish I were there,” he said. “Why’s that Mark? You’d be in here with me? With
the candles, and the glasses of wine. The romantic music. What would you be
doing,” Angel teased. “Damn. Don’t even get me started,” he said. “Just shaved
my legs,” Angel teased. “Totally unfair,” he said. “Why’s that baby,” Angel
asked. “The fact that you don’t have to be alone. The fact that Chase is there
with you. God. I wish I were there,” Mark said. “He’s confined to the sofa.
Sleeping in that big cold bed, all by myself. Wishing you were here,” Angel said.
“Why,” Mark asked. “Mmm,” Angel said. “You aren’t doing what I think you
are doing,” he asked. “Picturing it being you,” Angel said. He was a total goner.
“That much eh,” Mark said. “Definitely,” Angel said. He followed her lead and
joined her. “I still wish you were really here,” Angel said afterwards. “I wish I
were too,” Mark said. “Soon. Tomorrow night you are all mine,” he said.
“Can’t wait,” Angel teased. “Tease master,” Mark said. “You know it,” she
replied. “I love you,” Mark said. “Love you more,” Angel replied as they hung
up.
He was so happy to be home and right beside Angel. He had told everyone
before he left that he would be expecting them to come to California next time
there was a meeting. He didn’t want to be so far away from his baby girl. They
all laughed and teased him a bit, but being home and in Angel’s arms is all he
wanted at that moment. He wanted to smell her perfume, kiss her lips. Take it
all in and lock it into his memory.
The next morning, they woke up and Mark took Goldie out, while Angel got
changed for the day. Lila woke up and Angel brought her downstairs for
breakfast as Mark came in from his run with Goldie. “Well good morning
beautiful,” Mark said as he kissed Angel. “Da,” Lila said. “Good morning to

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you too princess,” Mark said as Angel got everything together to feed her. She
finished all of her breakfast as Mark made something for himself and for Angel.
“Such a good girl. You finished it all,” Angel said cleaning Lila off. She reached
out her hands for Angel and Angel picked her up, walking her over to her
daddy. Mark handed breakfast to Angel. “Well hello there,” he said. Lila
giggled. Angel had breakfast with Mark then tried to get through a few emails.
“I don’t know how you do it,” Mark said. “Do what,” Angel said as she typed
out some information that was requested from her. “Get all that work done, and
take care of giggles,” Mark said. “Easy. I work when she naps,” Angel said.
“And when might you be taking a Mark break then,” he teased. “Once giggles
has her morning nap,” Angel said. He kissed her as Lila leaned against his
shoulder. “So you saw the little surprise I snuck into your bag,” Angel said.
“Trust me. Was the best surprise. Second only to you showing up,” Mark
teased. “Tempted, but then I would have to bring Lila and everything…. Just
wasn’t enough time,” Angel said. He kissed her again. Angel cleaned up while
Mark spent some quality time with Lila.
That night, after Lila finally went down (no naps that day), Mark and Angel
finally had some alone time. They curled up in that bathtub, and enjoyed a glass
of wine by candlelight. “So, what did you want to do tonight,” Angel said as she
sipped her wine. She felt his hand brush against her hip. “Movie, relax in our
swing,” Angel said. His hand moved down. “Another glass of wine while we sit
in the swing it is,” Angel teased. She turned and faced him and he kissed her.
“The swing can wait,” Mark said kissing her neck. “Hmm. Maybe that movie I
have downstairs,” she teased. He wrapped his arms tight around her and kissed
her shoulder. “I’ll give you a movie alright,” he said as tingles went down her
spine. “Guess I should take Goldie for her night time walk then,” Angel teased.
He kissed her hard as he held her in his arms. “Or Goldie could wait,” Angel
said. He kissed her again then blew out the candles. Angel stepped out of the
tub, wrapping a warm towel around her. She went in and did a quick check on
Lila, then headed to bed.
The minute she walked through the door, he locked it behind her. She turned to
face him. “Darn it. I guess I’ll just have to stay in here tonight,” Angel joked. He
walked towards her and she backed up to the bed. He kissed her hard. “You
really are such a tease,” Mark said. She dropped the towel and leaned back onto
the bed. He grabbed her legs, pulling her to him and wrapping them around
him. “So I guess the swing is totally out of the equation,” Angel joked. He
kissed her hard as they curled up together on the bed. They kissed for what
seemed like forever. They made love the rest of the night. “I missed you so
much,” Mark said. “I missed you too baby,” Angel said. They curled up
together and caught a few hours of sleep before Lila woke them up for the day.

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Mark headed in and said good morning to his daughter. “Well hello Lila. Good
morning to you too,” he said yawning. He changed her, then sat with her in the
rocking chair. “I missed you too baby. Were you a good girl for mommy and
Chase,” Mark asked. She giggled. “That’s a yes,” he said as Lila looked into his
eyes. “I missed those baby blues you know,” Mark said. When Angel came into
the bedroom, Mark was cuddling with Lila in the rocker and she was yawning.
“Time for breakfast I think,” Angel said. “Morning,” Mark said. “You can just
tell how much she loves you can’t you,” Angel said. “Definitely,” Mark replied.
He followed Angel downstairs. “Got something new for Lila to try,” Angel said.
“Pineapple right,” Mark said. “And just how did you know that Kreskin the
Amazing,” Angel teased. “Your favorite,” Mark said. Lila grabbed at it and
sucked on it. Angel went to give her more and she grabbed the banana. “Just
like her mommy. Knows exactly what she wants and sticking to it,” Mark said.
He kissed Angel. Next thing Lila grabbed – pineapple. “Okay. So now we have
3 favorites – applesauce, pineapple and bananas. Awesome. Plus the cereal with
peaches. The doctor is going to be so impressed,” Angel said. “What do you
mean doctor,” Mark asked. “She has an appointment for her s-h-o-t-s and for her
checkup,” Angel said. “When,” Mark asked. “11,” Angel replied. They all
finished their breakfast and got dressed for the day.
Around 10:30, they headed off to the doctor. He was great with Lila. Very gentle
and was the perfect baby doctor. “So Lila is perfect as always. How is mom,” he
asked as he checked Angel over. “Tired, but good I think,” Angel said. “Just
want to run a few tests. We haven’t done any in a while,” the doctor said.
“Why’s that,” Mark asked. “Oh nothing,” he said looking at Angel as she
laughed. “What’s the big secret,” Mark teased as the doctor headed off to get
someone to do the blood work. “Nothing. He keeps teasing saying the next time
I come in here that I would probably be pregnant again,” Angel said. “Why
would he say that,” Mark asked. “Because I was anxious to find out when we
could get back to normal,” Angel joked. “Ah,” Mark replied kissing Angel. Lila
sat in Mark’s arms giggling away. “Okay joker. Enough of that,” Mark said
tickling Lila. The nurse came in and took the blood then Angel and Mark headed
home with Lila. “She has them all now. Make another appointment for March,”
the doctor said. “Okay,” Angel replied. “We’ll call you tomorrow if anything
comes up on the blood work,” he teased. Angel and Mark headed home with
Lila. She fell fast asleep in the car. “So you really think they are right,” Mark
asked. “I wouldn’t be surprised,” Angel said. “And why might that be,” Mark
asked. “Gee Mr. Stamina. I don’t know,” Angel teased. “I guess you have a
point there,” he replied as they both laughed.
They pulled into the driveway and brought Lila inside to bed. “Wouldn’t be so
bad having two would it,” Mark asked as he wrapped his arms around Angel’s
waist. “As long as this one has your nose, then no,” Angel replied. He kissed

230. 2
her neck. “Or we could just keep practicing until we get a positive test,” Mark
said. “Or we could both get some work done this afternoon,” Angel joked
turning to face him. He kissed her. “I guess work would come first,” he said.
They headed downstairs to get some work done during Lila’s nap. Angel was
swamped again. Mark spent the rest of the afternoon on his work. When it got
to dinner, Angel had Lila in her arms and made something for them, while Mark
finished his 5th conference call of the day. “If I didn’t have you around, I would
probably starve,” he joked as they all sat down to dinner together.
That night after playing with Lila for what seemed like hours, Lila went to sleep
and Angel and Mark finally had some time alone. “You know that test is going
to come back negative,” Angel said. “What happens if it doesn’t,” he asked. “It
will. No doubt in my mind,” Angel said. He kissed her as they closed the door
to their bedroom. “Why are you so sure,” Mark asked. “I know me. I would
know,” Angel said. “Guess we’ll just have to work harder at it then,” Mark said
as he kissed her again pulling her close to him. “You know you are a crazy one,”
Angel said. “Crazy? Why,” he asked. “You want another one already? She’s
not even walking yet. She’s not even potty trained. How can we do this with
two toddlers,” Angel asked. “We’ll figure it out. We always figure everything
out in time,” Mark said. “I’m not ready for another one yet anyway,” Angel said.
“Bet I could change your mind,” he teased. She sat down on the edge of the bed.
“Unless you are carrying this one, no,” Angel joked. He kissed her again leaning
against her. “I have ways you know,” he teased as he untied her dress. She
leaned back onto the bed. “Oh I have seen those ways,” Angel said as he kissed
down her torso to her hip. “Are they working,” he teased as he slid her shoes
off. “Not sure. May have to try a little harder,” Angel teased back. He slid her
underwear to the floor. “And,” he said as she felt the heat from his breath on
her. One lick. One kiss. “Mark,” Angel said. He kept going. He kissed, licked
and teased her, then his fingers joined in on the fun. “Change your mind yet,” he
said as he stared into her eyes. “No,” Angel replied. He kept going and got even
more intense until her eyes told him she’d had enough and she wanted him. He
kissed her hard and pulled her close to him. His jeans slid to the ground.
“Convinced you yet,” he asked as he kissed her neck. “Nope,” Angel replied
with a laugh. “You are so in for it,” he joked. She pulled him towards her with
her legs. They made love that night. Angel had nightmares as soon as she fell
asleep that she was pregnant again. Lila was so perfect. She hoped she’d have
more time before another baby came into their lives.
The next morning, Angel woke with a start. Mark had taken Goldie out for her
walk, and Lila was still out cold. Angel grabbed the phone. “Good morning
Mrs. Scott. It’s Gina from the doctor’s office,” she said. “Good morning yourself.
I assume this means you got all the test results back,” Angel said. “Yes. The
doctor said to tell you that you are off the hook,” Gina said. “Negative,” Angel

231. 2
asked. “Yes,” she replied. Angel laughed. “Thanks. I’ll see you in a few
weeks,” Angel said. As she hung up, Lila woke up. Angel could hear it on the
monitor. She snuck in. “Good morning princess. How are you today,” Angel
said as she gave Lila her hug good morning. She changed her and got her
dressed for the day, then came downstairs. Mark was just walking inside.
“Good morning beautiful,” Mark said. “Good morning to you too,” Angel said
kissing him. “Any calls,” he asked. “Yes. Answer is no,” Angel replied. “Guess
we’ll have to keep practicing then,” Mark joked. “You think so do you,” Angel
joked. “I know so,” he whispered in her ear as goose bumps ran up her spine.
Angel went and turned her computer on to see if there was anything urgent she
needed to do. When she turned around, Lila was getting kisses from Goldie
from head to toe and giggling away. Mark came and sat down with Lila and
Angel checked on breakfast. They sat down to eat, then fed Lila her breakfast.
“Let me,” Mark said as Angel handed over the bowl. She went and started going
through emails. She got a few documents down before she turned to see what
Mark and Lila were doing. She turned to see Mark trying to show Lila how to
walk. “Is Daddy being silly Lila,” Angel asked as she walked over to her and sat
down. Lila giggled. “Daddy is definitely being silly,” Angel said. “Figured she
could try,” Mark said. “She just started to crawl baby. Walking is a long way
off,” Angel said. Mark kissed Angel. “I’m surprised you don’t consider that she
won’t be walking for a while a good thing,” Angel said. “Why’s that,” he
replied. “Nobody walking in on us,” Angel teased. Lila giggled and smiled.
“Good point,” he said as he sat down with Crystal and wrapped his arms around
her.
“Busy today,” he asked. “Got a few more documents to go through. Should be
finished around lunch. Why,” Angel asked. “Don’t you have work to get done,”
Angel asked. “Already did most of it. Was up at 5,” Mark said. “Why,” Angel
asked. “Nightmare. Couldn’t get back to sleep, so I got up and got some work
done,” Mark said. “Okay,” Angel said. “Was thinking about something
anyway,” Mark said. “What’s that,” Angel replied. “Since technically you are
only working part-time now,” he asked. “Was thinking that maybe we should
get a nanny or something,” Mark said. “No. I really want to cherish this and do
it ourselves. She’s only little for so long,” Angel said. “What else can we do
then? Neither one of us get a full day of work in because we are always doing
things for Lila,” Mark said. “I talked to my boss. We came up with a good
compromise. I work 3 mornings a week, and if there is something urgent, then I
come in. Other than that, I am home with Miss Lila all day,” Angel said. “I am
so jealous. I wish it were that easy for me. Problem is, that I need to go into the
office a few days a week. I can’t do all this from home,” Mark said. “We’ll be
fine baby. Just think of the smiles you’ll get when you get home,” Angel said. “I
know,” he replied. “I don’t want to miss anything either. I want to be here when

232. 2
she takes her first step.” “So that’s why,” Angel teased kissing Mark. “Go get
some work done. I’m almost finished my stuff. She has to go for her nap
anyway,” Angel said. He took Lila upstairs and tucked her in, then came
downstairs and found Angel at the computer.
She was reading through emails, and going through documents at lightning
speed. He stopped and kissed her neck. She leaned her head back to kiss him.
“So sexy,” he said. “When are you going to be done?” “Why,” Angel asked.
“Miss Lila’s in bed,” Mark said. “Give me 5 minutes,” Angel said. She finished
up an email and logged off the computer. He turned her chair around to face
him and pulled it towards him. “Now what was it that you wanted,” Angel said
sliding into his lap and wrapping her legs around him. He pulled her shirt and
sweater off and threw them to the floor. “Oh really,” Angel said as he leaned in
to kiss her. She got up and headed upstairs. Mark was hot on her trail. He
grabbed her hand half way up the stairs. He pulled her to him and kissed her.
She tried to back up the steps to no avail. “No teasing,” he said. He kissed her
again, leaning her against the wall in the stairway. He slid his hand down the
back of her shorts and slid them off. She slipped out of them then tried to get the
rest of the way upstairs. She got to the top of the steps then he grabbed her
hand, pulling her to him and he picked her up, wrapping her legs around him
and pinned her to the wall. He kissed her hard and she got shivers up her spine.
“I want you so bad right now,” he said as he carried her to bed and closed the
door.
He slid his jeans and shirt off, dropping them to the floor. Her back arched as he
slid his hands under her back to pull her to him. He kissed her passionately as
she closed her eyes. Every touch caused her body to scream with excitement.
Something was definitely different that day. He kissed her skin and with every
kiss she became more aroused. He kissed her neck, then looked into her deep
blue eyes and kissed her. They started to make love. She felt every muscle as he
held her close to him. “I love you baby,” he whispered in her ear. Their hearts
started to race. They kept going. They breathed in the passion and exhaled the
love they had for each other. Every movement, both of them became more and
more excited. When she came, he followed still holding her close to him. “I
could never have lived without this you know,” Mark said. Angel kissed him.
“And hopefully, you’ll never have to,” Angel said.

233. 2
Chapter 27
The next few weeks were swamped with errands. Angel and Mark took turns at
home with Lila. There was Christmas shopping, work, errands, getting a tree,
decorating the tree, and so many other things to do, there didn’t seem like there
were enough hours in the day. Angel headed up with Lila a week early so she
could get the house together, and Mark followed a few days later.
The minute she walked off the plane with Lila, she felt like she could breathe
again. She grabbed the rental car and headed to her favorite house. The one
she’d thought she was going to spend all her time in. The house she’d bought
when she thought that her and Mark were history. She pulled into the drive, and
noticed it had been shoveled. “Chase,” Angel said aloud. She headed inside,
and everything was perfect. It was spotless. Angel knew Chase had something
to do with it. She headed in and put Lila in her crib, then started making a list of
the things she needed. A few minutes later, she heard the door open then close.
“Angel,” Chase said. She came down the steps. “Well hello there stranger,”
Angel said as he kissed her and pulled her into his arms. “Whoa,” Angel said as
she tried to back up. “God I missed you something fierce girl,” Chase said.
“Nice seeing you too Chase. I see you put a few things together for me,” Angel
said. “Well, I figured you would be coming early and I didn’t want you to have
to clean the entire day,” he said still holding her in his arms. “Why. What might
you be planning,” Angel said. “Figured you might want to do something else,”
Chase said. He was inches from her lips. “Such as,” Angel said as he locked
eyes with her. “Such as, I mean since you are here alone and without Mark,”
Chase said moving closer. “That doesn’t mean much Chase,” Angel said
gulping. “Still. He’s not here,” Chase said. “No, but Lila is,” Angel said. She
was trying to rack her brain for an excuse. Chase was in his leather jacket, and
blue jeans that fit him in all the right places. His sweater was open, showing off
his white t-shirt. She could tell he’d been working out. Thoughts rushed into
her head of that day at the beach. She had to snap herself out of it. Until….
Chase slipped his jacket off, hanging it on the spindle of the steps. “She
sleeping,” Chase asked still inches from Angel. “She screamed the entire flight.
She’s conked out probably for the night,” Angel said. “So how are things with
you and Mark,” Chase asked. “Okay. He wants to try for another baby, but I’m
not so sure,” Angel said. He kissed her. “I know why you aren’t sure,” he
whispered, undoing her sweater. He pulled it off and placed it over his jacket.
He kissed her again and slid his hands down her back. “And why might that be
kreskin,” Angel said. He kissed her hard and pulled her into his arms. He
walked towards the sofa, carrying her. He laid her on the sofa, then laid on top
of her. He unbuttoned her shirt, never letting her out of the kiss. She tried to

234. 2
stop, but her will power was low. When he finally let her up for air, he kissed
down her neck. “You think it’s because of you,” Angel asked. He looked in her
eyes. “I’m right,” Chase said. He kissed her neck, then her shoulders, sliding the
shirt off. “No you aren’t,” Angel said. He linked fingers with her pinning her to
the sofa. “Prove that you don’t want me,” Chase said as he kissed down her
torso and undid her jeans. “Would you stop,” Angel said. He slid his hand
down the front of her jeans. “If you don’t want me, then why are you so wet,”
Chase said inches from her face. He kissed her again and slid her jeans off.
“Stop. We can’t Chase,” Angel said. He undid his jeans. “You’re right. We
can’t do this on the sofa. Upstairs we go,” he said picking her up. “You know
you are insane,” Angel said. “Gee. Whose fault is that Mrs. I am wearing the
sexiest perfume ever,” Chase said. He kissed her neck and carried her into the
spare room.
“When did this get done,” Angel asked. “Last week. Needed a touch up, so I
fixed up the paint,” he said. He kissed her neck as he laid her on the bed. He
moved down her body, sliding her bra off, then her g-string. He kissed her
stomach, then moved down. “Chase. You have to stop this,” Angel said. He
pulled her to him. His naked body was perfect. It was like something that most
plain people strive for. He wanted her with every beat of his heart. “Chase,”
Angel said trying to back up. He grabbed something from his pocket and put it
on, then pulled her to him. His muscles leaned against her as he got closer and
closer. They made love that night. Every inch of her body had been touched by
his lips. He held her close to him. “I missed you,” he said. “We can’t do this
anymore Chase. This is just…….just…….” “So good you can’t say no,” he
teased. “Wrong,” Angel said. “Why? We are best friends. Why is it wrong?
Crystal and I are fighting constantly, you don’t trust your husband. What’s so
wrong,” Chase asked. The fire she ignited was an inferno. “What do you mean
you and Crystal are fighting,” Angel asked. “It doesn’t matter. I am not losing
you without one hell of a damn fight,” Chase said. “So that’s what this is? You
think it’s a competition,” Angel asked.
“It’s a competition for your heart. You may have married him and had his
daughter, but you know that you can trust me with your life. With your
daughter’s life even,” Chase said. He was still holding her so close, she could
feel his heart racing. “I know Chase, but I can’t walk away from him any more
than you can walk away from Crystal,” Angel said. “Did you know that we
haven’t been together at all since the christening,” Chase asked. “That was
almost 2 months ago,” Angel said. “Exactly. She went out one night with her
girlfriends and has barely talked to me since,” Chase said. “Do you want me to
talk to her,” Angel asked. “No. I want you period. We’ll just go away
somewhere where neither of them can find us. We can make love every night by
a fire and spend all day with Lila,” Chase said. “We can’t Chase. Really. This

235. 2
has to be it,” Angel said. Chase kissed her again. “No. We are having one last
Christmas together. Then I am telling Crystal I am leaving,” Chase said. “No.
You can’t Chase,” Angel said. “Why? Because he’d figure out that I am in love
with you and have been for years,” Chase said. “I can’t go another stint like that
without seeing you and feeling your skin on mine,” Chase said. His intensity
was building and somehow turning her on. “I can’t go another few months
without feeling you, without kissing your lips, feeling you come. I can’t and I
won’t,” Chase said. He kissed her again.
Angel knew in her heart it was wrong, but at that exact moment when she felt
him inside her, she didn’t really hear it. He knew her well. Better than almost
anyone. Her friends didn’t know what she was really about. They only saw the
elegant woman before them. They never saw the shy woman. The one who for
most of her life just blended into the crowd. The one that secretly had a huge
crush on Chase for years. They saw the tough and stone cold woman she had
become in California. The woman who didn’t take shit from anyone. The one
who was tough as nails – who stood up for everyone including herself. The
woman who could walk out on someone she loved if he made one error. They
didn’t see the woman that Chase knew. The one who ran to the arms of the
person who loved her when times were bad. The one who when she had tears
streaming down her face, comforted her without a word. Everyone else saw
independence. Chase saw comfort, dependence and love. Angel had no idea
where she would be without Chase. She never wanted to find out. Maybe he
was right. Maybe that was the reason she didn’t want any more kids right then.
She knew she couldn’t lose Chase – but what would it cost her to hold onto him?
The next morning, Angel woke up to find Chase in the chair by the bed with Lila
in his arms. “What are you still doing here,” Angel asked. “I called last night
and told her I was helping you clean the place up and was crashing on the sofa,”
Chase said. “Came up with that excuse pretty quick,” Angel said. “Pa-pa,” Lila
said. “Don’t you even think of it Chase,” Angel said looking at him. Lila giggled
as Chase tickled her. “And just look at that Lila. That white stuff is snow,”
Chase said. “No,” Lila said. “Snow,” Chase replied. There was a box at the
bottom of the bed. “What’s this,” Angel asked. “Open it,” Chase replied. She
did. It was a snowsuit for Lila. “She’s not going to be here that long Chase,”
Angel said. “She will if I have anything to say about it,” Chase said. “Isn’t that
right Lila. You get to play in the snow and make snowmen and snow angels.”
Angel had to admit that he was great with Lila. He did have 5 of his own. It was
old hat to him. “So how are the kids,” Angel asked. “All but Lily are with their
mom for the next two weeks. They’re coming back on Christmas morning,”
Chase said. “And how is Lily,” Angel asked. “Fine. She’s probably helping
Crystal with the Christmas cookies now,” Chase said. “Am I allowed to ask
what happened,” Angel asked.

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“I had promised her after Lily was born that I would stop dancing. I did for the
most part. I only danced once a month. The rest of the time I was managing the
bar. Once she got used to having Lily around, she started getting bored and the
work we were doing wasn’t enough. She would go out every other Saturday
night and not come back until 3 in the morning, just as I was pulling in. She
never really said where she was going. When all the drama started with you and
Mark, I told her that I felt like I needed to be there for you. She was fine with it,
but for some reason I thought it was a little too easy. One night, she went out
and when she came back, she wouldn’t sleep with me. She curled up and went
to sleep. Nothing for days. I would ask her what was wrong, and she’d reply
nothing. One of the guys from the bar saw her one night out with some guy.
She told me he was a friend. I let it go. I guess I shouldn’t have. I do love her.
Don’t get me wrong. I do. I don’t know where I would be without her, but I
don’t want to have to fight for her attention. The kids, work. The whole thing
just causes more stress. The mystery is gone. The passion is fading. I can’t do
anything because she doesn’t want me anymore. I am just another person in the
house,” Chase said. He held Lila to his chest as she grabbed for his eyelashes
and he kissed her hand. “Maybe you two just need some time alone together to
rekindle everything,” Angel said. “I tried that. It’s just not working. I took her
to Turtle Island for our anniversary. Everything seemed okay, but it always
does. I think she is seeing someone. She won’t admit it,” Chase said. “I’ll talk to
her. We just can’t do this every time we see each other Chase. We can’t,” Angel
said. He looked and saw Lila asleep hugging Chase. “Tired her out already did
you,” Angel asked. “We’ve been up since 5,” Chase said. Angel looked at the
clock. It was almost 11.
Angel got up and went over to see Crystal while Chase sat with Lila. “Hey there
neighbor. How are you,” Crystal said giving her a hug. “I’m good. How are
you doing,” Angel asked. “Just great. The kids are so excited you and Mark and
Lila will be here for Christmas,” Crystal said. “Can we talk for a minute or two,”
Angel asked. “What’s up,” Crystal asked as she poured some tea and handed
some to Angel. “I’m just trying to figure out why Chase was sleeping on my sofa
last night instead of being here,” Angel asked. “He said you two were cleaning
up,” Crystal said. “We were, but still. He used to rush home to be with you. I
can’t figure it out. It’s like the spark is gone,” Angel said. “It’s still there. Just
not as bright,” Crystal said. “I know something is going on. Talk to me,” Angel
said. “Remember that guy I told you about? Well, we’ve been hanging out a lot.
Chase went back to dancing every Saturday night, when he promised he
wouldn’t. I’m just sick of the girls calling to talk to him and all the crap that goes
along with the stripper thing. I can’t deal with it anymore,” Crystal said. “Have
you talked to him,” Angel asked. “It’s like beating a dead horse. I’m sick of
fighting with him about it. Now I just ignore it and go out with my friends,”

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Crystal said. “You think he was screwing around,” Angel asked. “Yes. There
are so many girls now calling him, I can’t even keep up. He says they are friends
and that they know he is married, but you would think that would stop them,”
Crystal said. “I hear you. But honestly tell me. Is there something with you and
this guy,” Angel asked. She knew that was the one thing Chase wanted to know.
“There is. There is a huge attraction. I like spending time with him. Don’t get
me wrong. I love Chase. I love him more than anything. I just am sort of falling
out of love. All the crap is blowing the flame out. I just can’t and won’t fight
anymore,” Crystal said as she finished her tea. “And if he wants you two to
work,” Angel asked. “He knows. It’s like we are married, but we aren’t. We are
perfect everywhere but the bedroom. I’m just not attracted to him like that
anymore. It’s not animal lust anymore,” Crystal said. “Guess he could learn
from Mark on that one,” Angel joked. “That man is intense. He could make you
come just with one look,” Crystal said. “I know,” Angel replied. “He is so in
love with you that you can tell just from his eyes. He doesn’t want anyone but
you,” Crystal said. “Wouldn’t necessarily say that. He has got the collar and
leash on it now. He was a cheater and then some,” Angel said. “Then,” Crystal
asked. “Then I told him that if it didn’t stop, he’d never see me or Lila again. He
has been tempted over and over, but he hasn’t yet,” Angel said.
Angel’s phone rang. “Excuse me for one second,” Angel said. “Angel. It’s
Raven.” “Hey girl. What’s up,” Angel asked. “You better be sitting down,”
Raven said. “What,” Angel asked. “Was just going to stop by the house to drop
off your Christmas presents. There was another car in the drive…..I saw him
walk some chick out in a bathrobe and he kissed her,” Raven said. “What kind
of…” “Let’s just say it wasn’t a friendly kiss. It was sort of like the kiss he gave
you when you two went through the do-over,” Raven said. Angel hung up. “I
have to get going. I will talk to you later. Something came up at the office,”
Angel said giving Crystal a hug goodbye and heading back to her house. She
walked right past Chase and Lila outside. She walked in, and grabbed the bottle
of wine from the fridge, opening it and pouring a glass. Chase came in a few
minutes later and put Lila in her playpen with a sippy cup of water, then headed
into the kitchen with Angel. “Ooh. The big bottle. What happened,” Chase
asked. Angel took another sip. He grabbed her phone and called the last caller.
Raven told him what happened. “I’ll take care of her. Just make sure he knows
that you know. Keep an eye out for anything else…….even better. Will do
Raven,” he said hanging up.
“Angel,” Chase said. She took another sip of her wine. “You can’t drown your
sorrows with a little girl in the other room,” Chase said corking the bottle and
putting it in the fridge. “Chase,” Angel said getting up. “No. This time you are
dealing with this with a clear head. She needs you. Snap out of it,” Chase said.
“Don’t leave me alone with him then,” Angel said. “What do you mean,” Chase

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said. “He is supposed to be down on Friday next week. It’s Wednesday.
Sunday next week is Christmas. You want to help, fix it,” Angel said. “Call your
parents and tell them Christmas is here. I’ll change the reservations for the
hotels,” Chase said. Angel called her mom. “We decided to do Christmas here.
We wanted Chase and the kids to come join us,” Angel said. “No problem.
We’ll bring the dinner there,” her mom said. “And the hotel reservations are
being changed as we speak,” Angel said. “Great. We will see you Sunday,” she
said hanging up. Angel called Mark’s mom. “We changed plans. We are going
to have Christmas at my place,” Angel said. “Our hotel reservations,” she said.
“Taken care of. The suites hotel in Niagara instead. It has the best views,” Angel
said. “Can we bring anything,” they said. “Just yourselves,” Angel said hanging
up. “Reservations done. We have to get a tree and decorate it then get
wrapping,” Chase said. “Grab Lila then. You drive,” Angel said. She went to
put her coat on and Chase kissed her. “What,” Angel said. “Merry Christmas to
me,” Chase said.
The next couple of days were filled with Christmas shopping and getting all the
fixings for a perfect Christmas. Sunday was the last day for Angel. “I am so
totally not going to a mall next week. If we don’t get it today, we aren’t getting
it,” Angel said. By the time they got back from getting everything they needed, it
was dinner. They were all starved. Chase made dinner while Angel fed Lila.
“So what are you going to do,” Chase asked. “Not going to ruin his Christmas.
The fact is, that I don’t want him here until Christmas morning and only for her.
Angel grabbed her phone. “Hi Rodney. Can you do me a favor,” Angel asked.
“How did I know. Should I turn the cams to keep an eye on him,” Rodney
asked. “Yes. Plus, one in the bedroom. Hide it behind the third shelf books. If I
come back I will get rid of it and get it back to you,” Angel said. “And phones,”
Rodney asked. “What do you think,” Angel said feeding Lila. “Okay. Raven
told me. I am sorry girl. Really I am,” Rodney said. “Not one word to him
either. Nothing,” Angel said. “Done,” Rodney replied. Angel hung up and
finished feeding Lila. “Time for the princess bubbles,” Angel said. She headed
upstairs and gave Lila her bath. All Chase could hear were giggles from the
bathroom. A little while later, Angel emerged with a lavender smelling baby
wrapped in a towel. She put Lila’s pajamas on and brought her downstairs in her
blanket. Chase took her and they sat down to dinner. “So how did your chat go
with Crystal,” Chase asked. “You were right. She’s also mad at the calls from all
the girls and that you are dancing again,” Angel said. “She’s with someone
else,” Chase said. “Another guy. Yes,” Angel said trying to soften the blow. “I
can’t do anything can I,” Chase asked. “The animal passion is gone. The flame is
a tiny flicker now,” Angel said. “I told you. Now there is no reason why we
can’t,” Chase said. Angel sipped the rest of her wine. They finished dinner then
put Lila to bed.

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When he came downstairs, Angel was putting the dishes in the dishwasher and
having another glass of wine. “You don’t need the wine,” Chase said. “Yes I do.
Right now, I do,” Angel said wiping the tears from her face. Chase drained the
sink and pulled the gloves from her hands. Her phone rang. “Don’t answer it.
It’s him,” Chase said. “I have to. He won’t stop until I answer,” Angel said. She
grabbed the phone. “Hi Mark,” Angel said. “Was thinking I may come down
this weekend and help you get the tree and stuff together,” Mark said. “Already
done. Chase and I and Lila picked it out today and we are decorating it tonight,”
Angel said. “Still, I may come down on Sunday instead of waiting until next
weekend,” Mark said. “Why don’t you wait Mark. Wouldn’t want to cut into
your fun time. You stay and enjoy the single life,” Angel said hanging up. Her
phone rang again two seconds later. Chase answered it. “What is going on
Chase,” Mark asked. “Raven saw you and that woman this morning. That’s
what’s going on,” Chase said. “It’s not what you think,” Mark said. “I could
care less Mark. If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck,” Chase said. “She
knows doesn’t she,” Mark asked. “Raven called her as she was driving home.
She’s willing to have Christmas with you for Lila’s sake. That’s all you are
getting. She’s staying,” Chase said. “I have to talk to her,” Mark said. “I would
wait if I were you. I know her better than you ever could Mark. Don’t push it
right now,” Chase said. “She’s my wife. That woman was my assistant. We had
a project to work on and she crashed on the sofa,” Mark said. “Whatever man. I
would just tell you not to come until originally planned. And bring some extra
sweaters. It’s bound to be cold in here,” Chase said.
Angel was sitting upstairs in Lila’s room in the rocker when Chase came in.
“Angel,” Chase said. She looked over at him and he motioned for her to come
with him. She got up and walked into the hall as he closed the door and grabbed
the monitor for Lila’s room. “What,” Angel said. “I want to show you
something,” Chase said. “If you are going to pull that again,” Angel said. “No.
Seriously though. I did something while you were away. I want to show you,”
Chase said. He took her hand leading her to the main floor. Look out by the
water. Do you see it,” Chase asked. “It’s a little cottage,” Angel said. “Heated,
proper fireplace and hooked the stereo in,” Chase said. “Why,” Angel said.
“Was sort of a do-over wedding gift,” Chase said. “Throw your jeans on and
meet me back there.” “I can’t leave Lila in the house alone,” Angel said. “It’s
only for a minute to show you,” Chase said handing her a pair of jeans. She
slipped them on as well as her coat and boots. They headed back there. He
flicked the light on. She looked around and saw a room filled with her
memories. “My grandmother’s sofa,” Angel asked. “And the chairs,” Chase
said. “My writing cottage,” Angel asked. “You used to talk about wanting one
years ago. It was out here. I just fixed it up and added the heat and the extra
windows,” Chase said. Angel kissed him. “Thank you,” Angel said. “Come on.

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Back to the house. I think someone else needs tucking in,” Chase said as he
kissed Angel.
He piggy backed her back to the house and dumped her onto the sofa. He pulled
her jacket off, then her boots. “Still freezing,” Angel said. Chase made them a
fire in the fireplace as they curled up beside it. “I have all the poetry and stories
that you gave me to read all bound and in there for you. Was sort of an early
Christmas present,” Chase said. “Crystal wrote out your wedding vows and
added them to the collection.” He wrapped his arms around Angel. He noticed
the tears in Angel’s eyes. “Don’t start that. It’s not worth it,” Chase said. “I
guess I was right not to trust him,” Angel said. “That you definitely were. You
know who you can trust. You instinctively know,” Chase said holding Angel in
his arms. “It’s just,” Angel said holding back the tears. “How? How did it go so
wrong? It felt so right Chase. I thought I would be with him forever.” He wiped
her tears away. “We both should have known. You just need some time to
process it all. I’m not leaving you alone either. Lila needs you to be strong. You
can lean on me when you need to,” Chase said. Angel kissed him again. She got
up and went into the kitchen and poured herself a glass of wine, then came to sit
back down. “You know that isn’t going to help you,” Chase said. “Want to be
numb Chase. I can’t do this if I’m not numb,” Angel said. “Do what? You can’t
raise your daughter to be like you? You can’t go on,” Chase asked. Angel put
the glass down. “What can’t you do,” Chase asked. “I can’t stop thinking about
him. I see the picture of them in my mind every time I close my eyes. I want to
wipe that picture away. I want to replace it with something, but every time I try,
I see it again,” Angel said. “Let me see if I can help you fix that. Will you let me
help,” Chase asked. Angel moved and sat by the fire. Chase moved over and
laid down beside her. “Will you let me help,” Chase asked again.
He kissed her and unbuttoned her sweater. He pulled the pillows to the floor
and laid her head down. She wrapped her leg around his. He kissed her skin
from her neck to her torso, sliding her jeans off. “You know this doesn’t make
me any better than him,” Angel said. Chase kissed her to quiet her. Angel slid
his sweater off. He kissed her again and slid his jeans off. He was so warm. So
strong. The feel of his arms around her made her feel secure – safe. “There’s
something I need you to know,” Chase said. “What,” Angel said as he slid her
bra off. “If you leave him now, I won’t let you go back. You know that right,”
Chase said. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her as tingles ran up her spine. He
slid her g-string off. She felt him against her skin. “I don’t know what’s going to
happen Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her breasts. Every touch turned her on
even more. He moved lower, licking and teasing and kissing her. His warm
tongue against her made her want to never leave. His fingers slid into her as she
opened her eyes staring into his hazel eyes. “Tell me that you won’t leave,” he
said as his finger grazed her g-spot. “I…….I can’t……..I can’t Chase,” Angel

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said. “Guess I will have to convince you then,” Chase said as he got more
intense. He moved back up her torso, heading for her lips. She felt him against
her. Every muscle against her soft skin. She felt every move, then felt him
penetrate her. “Chase. Protection,” Angel said. He kissed her hard. He grabbed
his jeans and pulled out a condom. “Yes or no,” he asked. Angel nodded. She
couldn’t speak. He slid it on, then started to have sex with her. “Chase,” Angel
said. “I know. I want you too,” he said. She felt every breath against her skin as
he kissed and caressed her. They climaxed then listened to their breath slow. “I
am not living without this again,” Chase said. “I don’t know what’s going to
happen Chase. I can’t promise anything,” Angel said. He kissed her again,
pulling the blanket off the sofa. “I won’t let you go back. That’s all there is to it,”
he said. “What do you mean won’t let me,” Angel asked. His arms tightened
around her. “Just what I said. I won’t let you,” he replied.
The next morning, Angel woke up in her bed. She could feel his body against
hers. The minute her eyes opened, his hand slid down. She heard Lila fussing.
“I have to check on Lila,” Angel said attempting to slide out of bed. He pulled
her to him. He kissed her neck. “I have to go get her or she’ll scream,” Angel
said. She got out of bed, sliding her chenille robe on and went in to check on
Lila. “Mama,” Lila said. “Good morning sweetheart,” Angel said. Her arms
went up. Angel picked her up, giving her kisses. “Let’s get you cleaned up and
all dry again shall we,” Angel said. She changed her, then put on her onesie and
took her downstairs. Angel put on some coffee. Lila stared at her. She tried to
grab everything. “Are you hungry,” Angel asked. “Baba,” Lila said. Angel gave
her a sippy cup with water as she made Lila’s breakfast. She fed Lila then
cleaned up. “Papa,” Lila said. “Not here baby. Daddy’s in California,” Angel
said as her eyes welled up. She wiped away the tears and cleaned Lila off,
bringing her upstairs. “Now that you had your breakfast,” Angel said. “Papa,”
Lila said. “I know you miss him baby,” Angel said. She held Lila in her arms
and rocked her in the rocking chair. Chase came in. “Papa,” Lila said looking at
him and raising her arms. “You sit with mommy. I smelled coffee. You want
some,” Chase asked tickling Lila. She giggled then put her head on her
mommy’s shoulder. “Why is she calling you papa is what I want to know,”
Angel said. “She can’t say Uncle Chase yet,” Chase joked. “Cay,” Lila said.
“Uncle Chase,” Angel said. “Cay,” Lila replied. “Almost there Missy,” Chase
said. He kissed her, than gave Angel a passionate kiss, then went downstairs to
grab them some coffee.
When Chase came back up, Angel was talking to Lila. “I know you love daddy.
It’s just that he can be such a bear sometimes. I don’t know what to do baby. I
don’t. Uncle Chase is such a good man. He’s so good to both of us. I don’t want
to lose him. I don’t want to write daddy off though. I don’t know if he actually
did it,” Angel said. “Mama,” Lila said pointing at the door. “I’ll always be your

242. 2
mommy,” Angel said. “Cay,” Lila said pointing at the door. Chase came in and
put some coffee on the table for Angel. “She caught me,” Chase said. “Mom and
Daughter chat going well?” “Believe it or not, yes,” Angel joked wiping away
the tears. Lila gave Angel a hug as Chase noticed a yawn. “One of those hugs
every day and I guarantee you’ll feel better,” Chase said. “Almost as good as a
glass of wine,” Angel joked. “Was going to tell you. Missy here has a surprise
for you,” Chase said. “You do Miss Lila,” Angel said sniffling. Chase took Lila
out of Angel’s arms. He stood her up holding her hands. She walked a few steps
to Angel. “Oh my god. “I have to get the camera. Hold on,” Angel said running
for the bedroom. She came back in. She took pictures then held Lila in her arms.
“You are growing up so fast,” Angel said. She gave Lila hugs and kisses as she
saw Lila yawn again. “Nap time,” Chase said as he took Lila and gave her hugs
and kisses then placed her in her crib. Angel grabbed her favorite doll and gave
it to Lila. She turned on the mobile and sat back down. “She is getting bigger
every day. And to think he’s missing all of this,” Angel said. “Come with me for
a minute,” Chase said taking Angel’s hand and leading her into the hallway.
“What,” Angel said. Chase kissed her hard, picking her up and wrapping her
legs around him. He pulled the belt off her robe. “Chase. Not,” Angel said as
he silenced her with a kiss. Her body was pulsating – almost craving him. He
walked into the bedroom and laid her on the bed, sliding his jeans to the floor.
“No more talk about him,” Chase said as he leaned his muscular torso against
her. They had sex again that morning. Something was different. It was as if he
was trying to prove something to Angel. They experimented with different
things. Just feeling his warm skin against hers turned her on. After, Angel went
back in to check on Lila. She was playing with her doll and her teddy bear.
“Guess you weren’t tired,” Angel said. She picked her up and brought her
downstairs to her toys. She put her into her exer-saucer and found a few more of
her toys for her to play with. There was a knock at the door. “Chase. Get
dressed,” Angel said heading to the door.

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Chapter 28
Angel went to the door. When she opened it, there was a face she hadn’t
expected to see. “What do you want Mark? Shouldn’t you be at home working
away at someone or something,” Angel asked. She went to slam the door and he
came inside. “You aren’t shutting me out. I didn’t do anything,” Mark said.
“Get out Mark. You aren’t staying here,” Angel said noticing his suitcase. Her
phone rang. She answered it. “Hey Angel. It’s Rodney,” he said. “Hey. What’s
up,” Angel replied. “I emailed you the pictures from the cameras,” Rodney said.
“Thanks. I’ll go check them,” Angel said. “And, he left last night. Two
suitcases,” Rodney said. “Thanks. Already knew that part,” Angel said. “He’s
there,” Rodney asked. “Yep,” Angel said. “Talk to you later. Email me if you
need anything,” Rodney said hanging up.
Mark came up behind her and tried to wrap his arms around her. “Don’t even
bother Mark,” Angel said walking out. She grabbed Lila and went upstairs to
the office. She turned on the computer and went into her email - 13 pictures. She
opened them one by one – Mark with a woman kissing her. Mark leaning same
woman against the wall. Next day, Mark on patio with another woman. Her
straddling him on the chaise. Him kissing her breasts. Mark walked in as she
went to the next picture – another woman with her mouth on him. All the
pictures were date and time stamped. “Get out Mark and don’t come back,”
Angel said. “I can explain,” Mark said. “You are a liar and a cheat Mark. Once a
cheater, always a cheater,” Angel said. Angel walked in and put Lila in her crib.
She went to leave the room and Mark stopped her. “Look closer at those
pictures,” he said. Angel went back in and zoomed in. Two sets were his
brother. Him with the woman at the door was him. The woman straddling him
on the chaise was him. The rest were his brother. “And, what does that prove?
The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” Angel said. He pinned her against the
wall and kissed her. “Get away from me,” Angel said pushing him away. Chase
came out of the spare room. “Shacked up I see,” Mark said. “Spare room.
Nothing else,” Chase said. “She needed a friend last night. I crashed in the other
room. Now, if you don’t mind…..get the hell away from her.” Chase pushed
him out of the way.
Angel went into her bedroom and locked the door. Mark banged on the door.
“You can’t think I would do this,” he said. “Get out of my house Mark,” Angel
said. “I’m not leaving. You can’t think that I would do this to us. After
everything we have been through,” he said. Angel came out with her jeans and
sweater on. “Fine. You won’t leave, Lila and Chase and I will,” Angel said. She
wiped the tears from her eyes and went into Lila’s room. She grabbed the baby
bag and got Lila dressed. She pulled on her warm coat, then came downstairs.
She put her coat on. “Where the hell do you think you are going,” Mark asked.

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“Until you leave, anywhere but here,” Angel said. Chase pulled his coat on and
went outside with Lila to warm up the truck. “You can’t really think,” Mark
said. “What? That you can’t keep your dick in your pants? Yes. I know you
can’t. After all the begging and pleading. What the hell Mark. After all of that.
After all the crap that we have gone through,” Angel said. Her tears poured.
“How can you think I would do that? I love you. What do I have to do to prove
it,” Mark asked. “Lie detector test. End of discussion. Get out,” Angel said.
“I’m not going home. We are going to talk about this,” Mark said. “Not here
and not now,” Angel replied. She walked out. Mark followed. “You are talking
to me now. I am not letting this one go,” he said. Angel locked the door to the
house. She walked down the steps and headed to the truck. “Don’t walk away
from me Angel. Don’t you dare,” he said grabbing her arm. “Let go Mark,”
Angel said. “I know you don’t want to end this. I don’t either. We have Lila.
We can’t,” he said. “Should have thought of that when you screwed around
Mark. Should have thought of that when some woman decided to fuck you on
our patio…in our bed….who knows where else,” Angel said freeing herself from
his grasp and getting in the truck. Chase locked the doors. “Angel. Come out
here and talk to me,” Mark said standing in front of the window. “Go,” Angel
said to Chase. Lila started to cry. “Go,” Angel repeated. Chase headed off.
Mark sat down on the front porch of the house. “God. What the hell have I
done? I drove her to him. I know I did,” he said to himself. “Are you okay,” a
female voice said. He looked up and it was Crystal. “I screwed up royally. She
found out. It was a stupid mistake. God. I can’t get her to hear me,” Mark said.
“She won’t listen…….she knew it was coming Mark. She was waiting for it to
happen,” Crystal said. “I couldn’t stand not having someone there. I called my
brother. He brought his girlfriend over. She made the moves on me. She said
she wanted both of us. She started all of it,” Mark said. “Still. Cheating is
cheating. She’s not going to forgive this easily Mark,” Crystal said. “What if I
got her here and got her to talk to Angel,” Mark suggested. “Not a good idea.
Now that she has been working out with Chase, really not a good idea,” Crystal
said. “What do you mean,” Mark asked. “She will kick ass Mark,” Crystal said.
“I have to figure out a way to get her back,” Mark said. “Come over and have
some breakfast. I’ll help you,” Crystal said. They headed over to the house and
Mark put his bags in the car. “One thing I want to do first,” he said. He grabbed
a bag from the car and carried it inside. He put the Christmas presents under the
tree and left a small box on the table for Angel. He locked the door then went
with Crystal to devise a plan.
Chase and Angel pulled into the park by the falls. Lila was still crying. Mark
parked the car, and Angel took Lila out of her car seat. “Shh baby. It’s okay,”
Angel said wiping away Lila’s tears. Chase wiped away hers. Lila calmed down
a bit. “Dada,” Lila said. “I know,” Angel said. She put her head on Angel’s

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shoulder and her arms around Angel’s neck. After about 15 minutes, Lila was
out cold. Angel slid her back into her car seat. “I can’t run Chase. I can’t take
off. You should have seen those pictures. That woman even looked familiar.
I’ve seen her before. God. That just makes it worse,” Angel said. Chase kissed
her. He slid her over into his lap. She straddled the seat. “You don’t have to do
this alone. I’m yours,” he said kissing her again and unzipping her jacket.
“What did you say to him,” Chase asked. “I told him the only way to prove it to
me was a lie detector test,” Angel said. “You know he’ll do it,” Chase said. “I
know, but there’s no way he’d pass it,” Angel said. Chase kissed her again. “Do
you want me,” he whispered. His hand slid down the back of her jeans and he
realized there was nothing on underneath them. He kissed her hard and
repeated his question. His hand slid down the back of her jeans as his fingers
teased her. “Chase,” Angel said. He slid a finger in her kissing her. “Lila,”
Angel said He opened the door and leaned her against the truck. “Say yes,”
Chase said kissing her. “To what,” Angel said as she noticed him undoing his
jeans. “Say it,” He said flipping her so she faced the window. He slid her jeans
down. “ Not here,” Angel said. His hand slid up her sweater and she felt him
enter her. “Shit Chase,” Angel said. He was rougher than normal, then went for
what he wanted. “Oh god Chase,” Angel said as they had sex against the truck.
They finished and he was still leaning against her against the truck. “Guess
that’s one way of making sure I don’t get pregnant,” Angel said. “That was un-
freakin-believable,” Chase said kissing Angel’s neck. “Now what,” Angel asked
as their breathing slowed down. He grabbed something from the baby bag and
they cleaned up. “Where do you want to go,” he asked. “I want to go home
Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her. “I’m not leaving you there with him,” Chase
said. “I don’t want you to either,” Angel replied.
Angel and Chase pulled into the driveway and took Lila out of her car seat.
Chase unlocked the door and Angel took Lila to her bed. When she came out,
Chase was in the bedroom. She walked in. He reached out for her and pulled
her to him. “You know he’s still here. His car’s outside,” Chase said. “Until that
test is done, he can screw himself,” Angel said. The phone rang. “Hi Mrs. Scott.
Yes…..You are……Oh……..I will tell him……See you tomorrow,” Angel said
hanging up. “Don’t tell me,” Chase said. “She’s coming in tomorrow afternoon.
God. I can’t let her know that we aren’t….you know,” Angel said. “I am not
going anywhere,” Chase said. “Good. I may need the bodyguard,” Angel said.
She checked the voicemail. “Angel. It’s me. My parents decided to come down
tomorrow instead of Friday. We have to talk before they get here. I am over at
the house with Crystal. Come talk to me,” Mark said. Angel deleted the
message. “Angel. Please talk to me. I know you are home. I saw the truck. I
miss you. I miss everything. I screwed up. Forgive me,” Mark said. Angel
again pressed delete. “I left something on the table by the tree. Call me once you
open it,” Mark said. Angel deleted the message. “You aren’t really going to go

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see are you,” Chase asked. Angel turned around and walked downstairs. She
saw a box on the table. She stared at it and opened it. It was a ring. It had 3
heart diamonds in it. It was engraved.
From my heart to yours forever
Angel fought back the tears. Chase grabbed the box and looked at it. “Don’t.
Tell me that he can’t buy your love back,” Chase said. “He can’t. I just,” Angel
said. He wrapped his arms around her. She put her head on his shoulder. “We
have to talk to him Angel. More like you have to. His parents are coming.
They’ll know,” Chase said. “I can’t. I can’t sleep with him. I don’t even want
him touching me,” Angel said. “Go talk to him. I’ll stay here with Lila,” Chase
said.
Angel crossed the street. Mark came out of the house. “You get my message,”
he said. She handed him back the box. He took the ring out and put it on her
finger. She took it off, and handed it to him. “Tell me what I have to do,” Mark
said. “Lie detector. End of discussion. You find someone to do it, and I will
accept it,” Angel said. “Let me tell you what happened,” he asked. “Why? I
don’t want to hear your lies Mark. I don’t want to hear the crap anymore. You
pick your parents up tomorrow and take them to the hotel. You aren’t stepping
foot in that house until Saturday night,” Angel said. He pulled her to him. “No
Mark. No,” Angel said pushing him away and walking back to the house.
Angel came inside. Lila was downstairs in the play area with Chase. “And,” he
said. “He’s picking up his parents. He’ll probably also spend the week looking
for someone to do the lie detector,” Angel said. “What are you going to do
Saturday night? They’re going to be here aren’t they,” Chase asked. “They are
coming for dinner. Then they head back. Told him he wasn’t stepping foot in
this house until then,” Angel said. Angel walked into the kitchen and got some
lunch together for Lila. When it was ready, Chase brought her to the kitchen.
“Let me. You sit and have something to eat. You haven’t had anything yet
today,” Chase said. “Whatever,” Angel said making a sandwich for both her and
Chase. Lila played with the other spoon, banging it against the table. She tried
to feed herself. Angel looked over and laughed. She grabbed her camera and
took pictures. When she finally put the camera down, she had tears rolling
down her face. Chase wiped them away and kissed her. Lila had other ideas.
She got a spoonful of sweet potatoes and threw it at Chase. “Guess she didn’t
like that,” Angel joked as she laughed. “Okay missy. You ate everything else…
what’s wrong with these,” Chase asked. He tasted it. “Okay. Agreed, no more
of this kind,” Chase said putting the dish in the sink and cleaning himself and
Lila off. She giggled as he cleaned off her face. “Cay,” Lila said. “Yes miss
Lila,” he said. “Up,” she said. He picked her up and handed her over to Angel.
“I have to get changed,” Chase said. “Wait for me,” Angel teased. He kissed

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her. Lila reached out for Chase. He pulled his dirty shirt off and grabbed Lila.
“Looks like someone has a little thing for you,” Angel teased. “And I have a
little thing for both of you too,” Chase said. “One big thing, and one little thing
for Lila.” Angel laughed. “She has to go for her nap in a little bit,” Angel said.
“Don’t worry. I’ll tire her out,” Chase said. “I’ll be back down in a second then,”
Angel said.
She went upstairs and unpacked her things. She hadn’t got a chance to do it yet.
She put everything where she wanted it, then slipped on her lingerie and her
robe. It was a perfect fit. She headed downstairs and saw Lila trying to walk
along the edge of the sofa. She grabbed her camera and took a few pictures.
Chase was sitting on the sofa at the time. She tried to walk over to him. “Cay.
Up,” Lila said with her hand on his knee. “Okay princess,” he said bringing her
onto the sofa. She gave him a hug then sat down with him. “Want to watch TV
with me,” Chase asked. Lila smiled. Angel took a few more shots, then came up
with the perfect present for Chase. She snuck upstairs and loaded all the
pictures they’d taken into the computer, then scrapbooked them. She printed out
the pages and headed downstairs. Lila was asleep on his arm. “She napping
already,” Angel said. Chase nodded and picked her up carrying her to bed.
They tucked Lila in, then grabbed the monitor and closed the door.
He untied the belt of her robe. “Nice,” he said kissing Angel. He backed her up
to the bedroom – not the spare bedroom. She’d lit candles. He closed the door
and locked it. He picked her up as he wrapped his arms around her backside
and she wrapped her legs around him. He laid her on the bed. “You are hotter
than ever you know,” Chase said as he slid her robe off and the straps of her
teddy. “Why? Because I told him off,” Angel asked. He kissed her hard. “No.
Because you are mine,” he said as he slid the lingerie off. “Really,” Angel said.
He slid his jeans off. “Because you want me as much as I want you,” he said
kissing her hard. He pinned her arms down with one hand. “Chase. Would
you,” Angel said. He silenced her with another intense passionate kiss. “Would
I what,” he said. “I am still married to him Chase,” Angel said. She felt him
getting aroused. “And you are mine. This is mine,” he said as they started to
have sex. “Chase,” Angel said knowing that there was no protection. He
silenced her. “Shit,” Angel said. It felt so good. She could live with this. They
kept going and going. She could feel every movement. Every muscle move as
they had sex. The feel of him inside her felt so right – it was a necessity. She
couldn’t be without it. She had to. Finally, they finished and he still wouldn’t let
go of her. “Forgot something,” Angel said. “Oh well,” Chase said. Angel was
about to say something when he kissed her again. “Don’t worry,” Chase said.
“But,” Angel replied. He kissed her hard again. Lila woke up. “I’ll get her,”
Chase said. “No. She’s probably hungry. Unfortunately, that’s something you
can’t do,” Angel said teasing. He kissed her hard again. “I’m waiting here for

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you. She’ll go back to sleep after that,” Chase said. Angel went to get up and he
kissed her shoulder. “I’ll be back in a few minutes,” Angel said.
She walked into Lila’s room and Lila was crying. Angel picked her up, changed
her and slipped her into another outfit. She breastfed her a little while. “Well
princess. I think it’s definitely going to be an interesting Christmas. Your first
Christmas is definitely going to be different. I don’t know about the whole
Daddy thing Lila.” Angel rocked her in the chair. “I love daddy. You wouldn’t
be here if I didn’t. I just don’t know if I can ever trust him again. No matter
what the decision is, you’re here now. I can’t not include you. He’s your dad.
But you are so lucky Lila. You have Chase and Daddy. They both love you so
much. I can’t believe everything has gone so wrong. How did it get like this?
You shouldn’t be seeing any of this Lila. None of it,” Angel said. She looked
down and noticed Lila was yawning. She switched sides. “Still hungry are
you,” Angel said. “That’s okay. You did a lot today. You walked to Chase, we
had a long drive. What a day you’ve had. What a day mommy has had. You
wouldn’t even know the difference if mommy and daddy weren’t together
would you? You even call Chase Papa. Totally not right, but I can see why. He
loves you so much. So does mommy. I don’t know what I would do without
you sweetheart. That smile, the hugs. Those are darned addictive. I love you
Lila. I do.” Angel looked down, and Lila was out cold. “You sleep honey.
Mommy will figure all this crazy stuff out. You sleep and dream about teddy
bears and dolls. Sweet dreams baby,” Angel said tucking her in and sneaking
back out.
She came into the hall and saw Chase on the bed. She came into the bedroom
and closed the door. “What,” Angel said. “You can’t go back to him Angel. You
can’t let Lila see that,” Chase said. “I don’ t know what to do Chase,” Angel said.
“Can’t you see? She knows the good people from the bad ones. She loves me.
She knows me. I can’t lose either of you,” Chase said. “You have a little girl
Chase. As a matter of fact, you have 4 of them,” Angel said. “Four who are
spending most of the week with my ex now, and Lily watching Crystal and I
pretend to be happy. I can’t raise any of them like that,” Chase said. “What do
you want from me Chase,” Angel asked as she slipped out of her robe. He
pulled her to him. He kissed her hard. “I want us. That’s all. You, me, Lila.
Us,” he said. “Chase, I am married to Mark. You know. The think where you
exchange rings and vows? The thing where you promise to be together forever?
The thing that I don’t take lightly,” Angel said. “The thing where you knew it
was a mistake two weeks in,” Chase said wrapping her legs around him. “That
is so not…” He kissed her to quiet her. “Am I right or not,” Chase asked. “Yes,
but,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “All I wanted to hear was yes,” he said.
He leaned her onto the bed. “Chase. We can’t. We can’t do this with a clear
conscience,” Angel said. He kissed her breasts then moved down. “Chase,”

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Angel said as he slid his finger inside her. He licked and teased and kissed her.
“Shit Chase,” Angel said as she tried to back away from him. He moved with
her. He kissed his way back up her torso. “Chase,” Angel said as he reached her
neck. “We…..can’t…..” “Can’t what Angel,” Chase asked as he kissed her lips.
They had sex again. He knew every move in the book. Every thing there was to
distract her from rational thoughts. The feel of his body against hers. He
warmed her from the inside out. Every thrust breaking down her resistance to
him. Every touch of her skin making her wish she could be free. When she felt
him finish, her muscles tensed. “I am not losing you. Never,” he said. “You
never have Chase,” Angel said. “And I am not giving you back to him either,”
he said. He kissed Angel again. He heard Lily fussing. “My turn. You get
dressed,” Mark said kissing her. “I have to go pick something up,” Angel said.
“Okay. Be back soon. I’m making dinner tonight,” he said.
Angel pulled on her jeans after cleaning up, pulled her long blonde hair into a
ponytail, then pulled on her sweater and headed out. About half way to the
store, she noticed a car following her. It was Mark. She wrote down what she
needed on a piece of paper. She parked and headed into the store. She went
straight to the pharmacist and asked for the item she wanted. Mark didn’t see
the package. They handed it to her and Angel went to finish her shopping. “You
aren’t going to talk to me at all are you,” Mark asked. “You got a lie detector test
already,” Angel replied. “Tomorrow. And I want you to be there,” he said.
“Where,” Angel asked. “At the house. Your house,” Mark replied. “I told you
that you weren’t allowed on the premises Mark,” Angel said grabbing a few
more items. He grabbed her hand. “Why are you buying those,” Mark asked as
he noticed Angel buying condoms. “What’s good for you can be fun for me,”
Angel said. He kissed her hard, leaning her against the wall of the pharmacy.
“You are still my wife,” Mark said. “In name only,” Angel said. She tried to get
away from him and he kissed her again. She got away and headed for the
checkout. She bought her items and went to leave. He followed. “Would you
stop! Leave me alone Mark,” Angel said. He took her hand, pulling her to the
car. “What,” Angel said. He pinned her against the car. “You aren’t leaving me
like this,” Mark said kissing her hard again. She tried to push him away. “Stop.
I don’t know where that has been. Don’t even try it,” Angel said. He kissed her
again. “Please. Please don’t do this,” Mark said. She pushed him away and
headed for the truck. She remote started it and hopped in, locking the doors.
“Don’t do this. Don’t walk away,” Mark said. Angel pulled out and headed
back to the house. She took a different route in case Mark followed her. She
pulled into the driveway and hopped out of the truck. “Angel,” Mark said.
“Stop. Enough Mark,” Angel said. “Please,” he said. Angel went inside. Chase
was in the play room with Lila. Angel locked the door and sat down.

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Chase came up behind her. “What happened? All I heard was screaming,”
Chase said. “He followed me to the damn store. He won’t back off Chase. He is
determined,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. “It’s fine. Everything will be fine,”
Chase said. “I noticed something about Lila. Come see,” he said taking Angel’s
hand. Her two front teeth were coming in. “Big girl,” Angel said. Lila giggled.
“Mama, up,” Lila said with her arms out. Angel picked her up and gave her
hugs. “Well big girl. You hungry,” Angel asked. She brought Lila into the
kitchen and sat her in her chair. Angel got dinner for Lila. Mark kissed Angel
and finished making dinner for them. Lila had her dinner, then Angel gave her a
bath and put her into her pajamas. Lila played on the floor while Angel and
Mark had dinner. “So when is the lie detector thing,” Chase asked. “Tomorrow
here,” Angel said. “How did he pull that off,” Chase asked. “I have no idea, but
if he even thinks he will get into my bed after that,” Angel said. Chase kissed
her. Lila crawled into the front room and climbed onto the chair. Angel
followed her. Lila waved at the window. “Dada,” Lila said. Angel looked out
the window and Mark was outside having a cigarette. “Yes. That’s dada,”
Angel said. “Dada up,” Lila said. “Nope. Dada tired. Dada’s going to bed now
just like Lila,” Angel said. “No,” Lila said. “Yes you are giggles,” Angel said
taking Lila upstairs to bed. “Up,” Lila said. “No baby. Bedtime,” Angel said.
“Up,” Lila said starting to cry. Angel picked her up and rocked her a bit. Angel
fed her a bit, then tried to get her to go back to bed. Lila yawned. “You go to
sleep princess. I’ll see you in the morning,” Angel said. She gave Lila a bottle of
water, then headed back downstairs.
Chase had put candles into the living room, and a bottle of wine with two
glasses. He drew the shades so no prying eyes could see in and had a fire going
in the fireplace. Angel went in. She heard the music playing quietly so Lila
wouldn’t be woken up. Angel sat down on the sofa. “No disruptions tonight,
except Lila. Just us, and a bottle of wine,” Chase said. He sat down by the fire
and motioned for Angel to join him. “So, what do you think you’re going to do,”
Chase asked. He was trying to play the friend role, but she knew why he really
wanted to know. “I don’t know Chase. I know he was with someone else. I just
don’t know if I can deprive Lila of seeing him forever because of it,” Angel said.
“You know my opinion,” Chase said. “One thing I don’t get though. You do all
these things to make me feel good, and to make it romantic and everything.
Why don’t you do this kind of thing for Crystal,” Angel asked. “Easy. I tried to.
I did for the longest time, but she doesn’t want me anymore. I can’t do anything
different to turn her back on to me,” Chase said. “You could, but you aren’t
comfortable,” Angel said. “No, she won’t even let me try,” Chase said. “Did you
actually stop dancing,” Angel asked. “I quit last week. I was going to tell her,
but then you showed. I thought it might change her mind about me, but she
ignored me. I told her and she didn’t believe it was for good. I told her I loved
her and tried, and she wouldn’t even kiss me,” Chase said. “When was the last

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time you two were alone together without the kids,” Angel asked. “When we
came to see you,” Chase said. “And,” Angel asked. “Once while we were
there,” Chase said. “What was different,” Angel asked. “She had no other
option,” Chase replied. “Stop. She was with you Chase. You had the chance,”
Angel said. “Then I told her I was staying to make sure you were okay and she
said fine and walked away. She didn’t even kiss me goodbye at the airport,”
Chase said. “Do you think it had something to do with the fact that you were
alone with me,” Angel said sarcastically. “She doesn’t want me. End of
discussion,” Chase said. He opened the wine. “Nice diversion. Now back to the
Mark conversation,” Chase said.
“There’s nothing to say Chase. He’s done it before. Twice. There is no more
chances after this. I told him that when we got back together last time,” Angel
said. “Then tell him that you are leaving and you are staying here. Stay with
me,” Chase said. “Stop talking crazy Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her again.
“Question 2, what is this,” he asked handing her a box. “I can’t get pregnant
now Chase. I can’t,” Angel said taking the plan b box from him. She took one.
“Spit it out,” Chase said. Angel swallowed. “This isn’t right,” Chase said. “I
told you Chase. I can’t get pregnant. It wouldn’t be right no matter how it
went,” Angel said. “So you choose Plan B? If you did, then that’s all the more
reason,” Chase said. “Think Chase. It wouldn’t be good no matter what way
you looked at it. They’d both know. You can’t lose everything and either can I,”
Angel said. He kissed her, leaning her into the pillows. “If you don’t take both it
doesn’t work,” Chase said. He grabbed the box from her hand and went to
throw it down the drain. “Chase. Don’t. Please. If we decide to later, then fine.
Not now,” Angel said. “But it would be ours. Not just yours,” Chase said.
Angel grabbed the box from him. “Not now. Really. Not now,” Angel said. He
kissed her leaning her against the wall. “Yes now,” Chase said. He picked her
up, wrapping her legs around him. He knocked the box out of her hand.
“Chase,” Angel said. “Let go.” He carried her back to the living room and laid
her on the floor. “You can’t do it Angel,” Chase said. Angel got up and headed
for the kitchen. She grabbed the box. It said take the second one within 12
hours. She hid it in the cupboard and headed for the steps. Chase came up
behind her. “Come and sit down,” he said. “Chase, if you are trying,” Angel
said. He kissed her. “Come sit,” he said walking her backwards to the pillows.
She sat down with Chase.
“If you do, we can handle it together. Don’t you get it,” Chase said. “No Chase.
Not now. I don’t know which way is up right now. I can’t get pregnant in the
middle of this,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. “So I assume you found the other
box in the bag,” Angel said. He pulled it out. “Should have enough in here to
last us a day or two,” Chase said. “What,” Angel said as he kissed her hard
again. He undid her jeans. There was a knock at the door. “Chase, get up,”

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Angel said. She went out into the hall and answered it, doing her jeans up.
Mark was at the door. “What,” Angel said answering it. He kissed her and
walked into the house pinning her into the wall. She tried to fight him. He
kicked the door closed. Angel again tried to push him away and he had her
pinned. “Get off,” Angel said as he kissed her neck. “I am your husband am I
not,” Mark said. “Get off me or else,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “No.
You are my wife goddammit. He pulled her jeans undone. “Stop it Mark. You
aren’t doing this here. Not in my house,” Angel said. “Our house,” Mark said.
“No Mark. The house is in my name. My house,” Angel said. Chase walked in
and saw what was happening. “Let her go Mark,” Chase said trying to get him
off Angel. He pushed Chase out of the way. “She’s my wife Chase. I’m talking
to her and getting this done or I am not leaving,” Mark said. “Not like this. You
want to talk to her then talk. Touch her like that again and I will kick your ass
out in a heartbeat,” Chase said. Angel got away and went into the play room. It
was the quietest room in the house. “Raise your voice and you are out. Got me,”
Angel said as Mark followed her. Chase handed Angel her glass of wine and
went upstairs to check on Lila.
“Nice. You two having a romantic night for two,” Mark asked. Angel slapped
him. “How dare you. After the how many women you’ve screwed around on
me with? How dare you,” Angel said. “Seems you two are kind of cozy. He’s
walking around without a freaking shirt on. Fire in the fireplace. Anything I
should know,” Mark asked. “Yeah. He has and always will be my best friend.
He is the best person for Lila right now. She loves him. Anything else you want
to know smart ass,” Angel asked sipping her wine. “You slept with him,” Mark
asked. “Like that is any of your business. You must have slept with half of
California by now haven’t you? Or are you waiting for your piece of Niagara,”
Angel asked. He kissed her, leaning her against the back of the sofa. She pushed
him off. “You think I want to sleep with you after that? You are insane. I
wouldn’t sleep with you if you gave me millions Mark,” Angel said. He leaned
her onto the sofa and pinned her down. He kissed her again and slid his hand
down the front of her jeans. “I know you want me,” he said. “No Mark. I
don’t,” Angel said. He pulled her jeans off. “Since when do you go without,” he
asked. Angel tried to squirm away. “No you don’t. If you do, you know what’s
going to happen,” Mark said. “Stop okay. Enough,” Angel said. He undid his
jeans. “Mark. No. Not now,” Angel said. He pulled her to him. They had sex
on the sofa. The minute it was over, Angel tried to get away. “I didn’t sleep
with anyone else. I swear. My brother and his girlfriend were there. She made a
pass at me and asked me to be part of a threesome with them. I said no. You
have to believe me,” Mark said holding onto her for dear life. “Who was the
woman you were kissing at the door then,” Angel said still trying to get away.
“My assistant. She kissed me. Please. You have to hear me,” Mark said. Angel
got away. “Get out Mark. I don’t want to hear any more. Get out and don’t

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come back,” Angel said grabbing a blanket. He walked towards her. “Out,” she
said. “You have to believe me,” Mark said pulling her back to him. “Get out
Mark. Get out and stay out,” Angel said pushing him to the door. He pulled his
jeans on, and she kicked him outside the door, throwing his shoes and coat at
him. She locked the door. She sat down on the floor, then cried. She went into
the bathroom and showered, trying to get any remnant of him off of her. She
went into Lila’s room in her robe and sat in the rocking chair.
The next morning, she woke up in bed. Chase wasn’t there. She heard him with
Lila. “In a few more days this will all be over. You’ll get to stay and play with
me, and I will always be here. We’ll tell mommy about the hating peas thing, tell
her about the peanut butter and banana sandwiches, and we’ll tell mommy that
you want me to be daddy,” Chase said. “Cay,” Lila said. “I love you Lila. You
are a sweetheart. And you give the best hugs. Now if only mommy loved me
too,” he said. Angel got up and took the other pill, then headed into Lila’s room.
“Well good morning you two,” Angel said. “Good morning Mom,” Chase said
kissing Angel.. “And how is Miss Lila this morning,” Angel asked. Lila giggled.
“Cay. Up,” Lila said. “Let’s have breakfast first Miss Lila,” Angel said. “Cay
up,” Lila said. He took Lila and carried her downstairs. Angel headed
downstairs and made breakfast for Lila as Chase slipped her into her high chair.
“I guess we know who she likes better today,” Angel said as she fed Lila. “Now
if only you would too,” Chase said quietly so Angel wouldn’t hear it. “I heard
that you know,” Angel said. He walked over and put the spoon down from
Angel’s hand. “What,” Angel said. He kissed her hard picking her up and sitting
her on the counter. “Chase. What are you doing,” Angel said as Lila giggled.
He pulled her close to him untying her robe. She could feel how horny he was.
“Let me feed her first,” Angel said. He kissed Angel, then moved down to her
neck. “Chase, stop. Let me feed her,” Angel said. “Then you are mine. No
excuses,” Chase said. “Fine. Just let me down,” Angel said. He picked her up
off the counter and she fed Lila. “I can’t believe you sometimes,” Angel said.
“And you love it,” Chase said wrapping his arms around her and nibbling her
earlobe. Lila giggled and finished her breakfast. After, Chase gave Lila a bath
and changed her while Angel got dressed. He slid into the bedroom after giving
Lila her bath. “Now what did you have to get all this on for,” Chase asked. The
doorbell rang.
Angel headed downstairs as Chase pulled his tank top on and followed her.
Angel opened the door to find Mark with a woman with a box in her hand.
“She’s here to do the test Angel,” Mark said staring at Chase. “Go ahead. In the
kitchen,” Angel said. The lady hooked Mark up. “I don’t want him in here,”
Mark said. “Isn’t your house. My rules not yours,” Angel said. Chase headed
into the playroom and cleaned up a bit. Angel sat down and had her tea. “Mark
told me the questions you want to know the answers to. Is there anything else

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you want to know,” she asked. Angel handed her a piece of paper. “I’ll add
those,” she said heading back to Mark. “Add what,” he said. She hooked him
the rest of the way up. “Why don’t you two go into the other room, and I will
bring you the results,” she said. Angel headed into the living room with Chase.
“I can’t believe he’s going through with this,” Chase said. “He wants what he
wants. He’ll do almost anything,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. “Not here,”
she whispered. Angel and Chase played with Lila a while until the lady came
into the room. “Here are your results,” she said. Angel read them. “Why don’t
we do this with him in the room,” Angel said handing them to her. Chase and
Angel came into the kitchen and sat down. “Read them to us,” Angel said. “Did
you put something in everyone’s drink the night you took Chase and Crystal and
Angel to the swinger bar. He answered no. That was a lie. Have you slept with
anyone other than Angel since you remarried each other. He answered no. That
was a deception. When Angel left, were you trying to force her into another
pregnancy. He said no. That was true. Have you had sex with anyone other
than those Angel knows about since you got married. He answered no. That
was a lie.” “I’ve heard enough. Go home Mark,” Angel said. “The last three
questions were: Since you told Angel you wouldn’t cheat on her again have you
been with anyone else. He answered no. That was a deception. Were you
sexually with anyone before you came here to Niagara a few days ago. He
answered no. That was a lie. Have you been with anyone since you got to
Niagara. He answered no. That was truthful.” “Thank you,” Angel said
escorting her and Mark to the door. “Don’t let the door hit you Mark,” Angel
said. “He wanted you to do one as well,” she said. “I don’t lie. I don’t bullshit
either Mark. The answer is no,” Angel said. The lady left. Mark sat back down.
“I said get out Mark. That means now,” Angel said. “Can I have a moment with
my wife alone Chase,” Mark asked. “Five minutes. I’m going to check on Lila,”
Chase said.
“You can’t believe that stupid test,” Mark said. “Yes I can Mark. You have lied
to me for the last time. It’s done. Over. Finished,” Angel said. She finished her
tea. Mark wrapped his arms around her. “What about this weekend. We can’t
do this in the middle of Christmas,” Mark said. Angel turned to face him. “You
should have thought of that before…” He kissed her wholeheartedly. “I can’t
live without this,” he said. His arms wrapped around her and up her shirt. He
undid her bra and pulled her close to him. “Mark. Stop,” Angel said. He
wrapped her leg around him. He unbuttoned her sweater and slid her bra off.
“Stop,” Angel said pushing him away. He pulled her to him again and kissed
her harder as she felt him hard against her leg. “Mark,” Angel said. “Tell him to
go home. Tell him you want to fuck your husband,” Mark said. He went for the
button of her jeans. “No Mark. No,” Angel said pushing him away. She walked
to the door and opened it. “Get out Mark. Go,” Angel said. He slammed the
door and pinned her against it, unzipping her jeans. “You want me. I know you

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do,” he said. He kissed her hard and slid her jeans off. “Mark. Stop it. No,”
Angel said. She heard him undo his jeans then felt his skin against her. He
grabbed her legs and wrapped them around him. “No Mark. No,” Angel said.
They had sex. He was forceful and demanding. Angel finally got him away
from her and pushed him out the door, locking it behind him. She pulled her
jeans on and went upstairs, hopping directly into the shower. She covered
herself in soap and let the water run across her skin. She sat down in the tub and
cried.
Chase heard the water run and decided that it was time for Lila’s nap. He
tucked her in with a bottle of water and went towards the bathroom. He heard
her crying. He opened the door and turned off the water. He wrapped Angel
into a towel and carried her to bed. “How could he do that? How could he cheat
on me? What the hell did I do wrong,” Angel said as Chase held her in his arms.
“You didn’t do anything. You just made the wrong decision,” Chase said. “He
has lied all this time,” Angel said. “Shhh. Let me take care of you okay,” Chase
said holding her against him. “After this weekend, there is no more Mark okay?
No more lies. Just us,” Chase said. “Like I am any better Chase. If it weren’t for
me, you and Crystal would be happy. I have made such a mess out of
everything,” Angel said getting up and heading to her closet. “Where are you
going,” Chase asked. “To the cottage. I need to think,” she said. She headed out
the door and to the cottage. The moment the door closed, Lila woke up.
Angel headed into the cottage and turned on some music, and turned on the
fireplace. It was the perfect place for solitude. She couldn’t believe that after
everything she’d gone through with Mark that this was how it was going to end.
After all his begging and pleading, therapy, romancing. After everything, it was
all a lie. That’s what hurt the most. Angel grabbed a bottle of wine from the
fridge and poured herself one glass. She wrapped herself up in the blanket. Her
stomach started to cramp. She leaned back onto the pillows and grabbed one of
the books of poetry that Angel had written so long ago. She really was different
now. She looked back at the words of love she had written. The raw emotion
from the poems and stories. She opened the album with the pictures and the
wedding vows in it. She read through them. “It was all a damn lie,” Angel said
pushing the book to the floor. She heard a knock at the door. She wiped the
tears off her face. “Come in,” Angel said. Chase came in with Lila. “We wanted
to make sure you were okay,” Chase said. He handed Lila to Angel. “Mama
why,” Lila said wiping the tears from her face. “Just sad baby,” Angel said. Lila
kissed her and climbed off the sofa. Chase handed her a few toys to keep her
busy. “Seriously. Are you okay,” he asked. “I’m just as bad Chase. If not
worse,” Angel said. “No you aren’t. He’s been doing this forever. Don’t forget I
knew him way back when,” Chase said. “I know Chase. I just can’t believe this
is happening now,” Angel said.

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Mark went back to the house. He walked in and Crystal was at the door. “So,”
she asked. “She’s never coming back to me. I’ve lost her. The one good thing
that was in my life and I blew it,” Mark said. He sat down on the step with his
head in his hands. “You didn’t pass it,” Crystal asked. “No. As a matter of fact,
it probably made everything ten times worse,” Mark said. “What happened,”
she asked. Mark told her about the test. “Then I tried to talk to her alone. She
tried to get me out of the house and the second she tried, I couldn’t hold it back.
I wanted her,” Mark said. “Tell me you didn’t,” Crystal said. “I had to. I had to
feel her skin against my skin one last time. I can’t resist her. God what have I
done,” Mark said. “Did she do the test like you hoped,” Crystal asked. “No.
She said there was no need to. She didn’t lie,” Mark said. “Tried to blow it off. I
know something is up between them Mark. That’s why she’s so damn resistant
and why he is so distant from me,” Crystal said. “He’s doing what I should be. I
should be playing with Lila. I should be watching her grow up. Not him,” Mark
said. “You will. If it’s the last thing I do, you will,” Crystal said.

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Chapter 29
That night, Angel spent some quality time with Lila and Chase headed off to the
office to pick up some papers. When he got home, Angel and Lila were curled
up on the sofa and both were out cold. Angel had read a few books to Lila and
they’d both dozed off. He took Lila upstairs and tucked her in, then came
downstairs to Angel. The minute he sat down beside her, she woke up. “I didn’t
mean to wake you,” Chase said. “I could smell the cologne. Woke me,” Angel
said. “You feeling any better,” Chase asked. “A little. I am thinking that getting
everything out in the open would be the right thing to do Chase,” Angel said.
“Not in front of Crystal. Promise me,” Chase said. “Me and Mark alone. His
parents come the day after tomorrow. I don’t want them to see the tension,”
Angel said. “He’s outside you know. He’s on my porch,” Chase said. “What are
you going to do when the kids come home,” Angel asked. “I don’t know. Been
trying to figure that out all day,” he said. “I guess I will go talk to him,” Angel
said. “Go for a walk. Go down to the park,” Chase said. “Swings. Good point,”
Angel said. “Can you,” Angel asked. “She’ll be fine. I’m just going to have a
shower and go through some papers anyway,” he said.
Mark sat on the porch trying to figure out how to get out of the predicament he
was in. He looked up and saw Angel walking towards him. “Tell me you have
forgiven me. Please,” Mark said. “We need to talk,” Angel said. “Tell me you
forgive me,” he said. “Walk,” Angel said. He zipped his coat up and they
headed off. “I swear that I didn’t mean for any of this to happen Angel,” Mark
said. “Would you stop for 5 minutes? I need to tell you something,” Angel said.
They got to the park and she sat on the bench by the water. “What,” Mark said.
“After everything I found out today, I think it’s only fair to tell you,” Angel said.
“What? Tell me you aren’t sleeping with Chase. God don’t tell me that,” Mark
said. “When I came up here, the kids were with their mom and he was living at
my place. Him and Crystal aren’t working out. He wants to be with me. He has
been a great thing for Lila. She loves him so much. She’s almost got his name
too. I think that maybe it’s best if we just call us what it was – a mistake. We
shouldn’t have done the stupid things we’ve done. You aren’t meant to be
married Mark. You are meant to be a single guy. I can’t live like this anymore.
After that test today, I knew that it was over. The attraction is still there, but the
pain overshadows it. I can’t do it anymore,” Angel said. “Don’t say this. You
can’t mean this. Tell me you aren’t leaving me to be with Chase,” Mark said. “I
am telling you that we can’t do this anymore. I can’t wait for you to grow up,
and I can’t raise Lila in a home where the love and trust isn’t there,” Angel said.
She went to get up and he grabbed her hand. “No. You can’t do this,” Mark
said. He pulled her to him and kissed her. “You still love me. I know it’s in
there somewhere,” Mark said. “It hurts too much okay Mark,” Angel said. He
wrapped his arms around her. “Let me take the pain away,” Mark said.

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He kissed her and held her close to him. “I’m not letting go of you,” Mark said.
He kissed her hard and leaned her back against the bench. “Mark, you just don’t
get it do you,” Angel said. He kissed her again and pulled her into his lap.
“Stop,” Angel said trying to pull away. “I want to know two things. Will you
answer me truthfully,” he asked. “What Mark,” Angel said as he unzipped her
jacket and kissed her neck. “Have you slept with him since you’ve been here,”
Mark asked. Angel was quiet. He unzipped her sweater. “No,” Angel said. It
killed her to lie to him, but she had to. “Do you still want me? Do you go to bed
at night and wish that my tongue was on you…my fingers inside you. Do you
wish I were there fucking you every night before you go to sleep and waking
you up by licking you until you come for me.” He felt her body react. “Do you
go to sleep wishing I had fucked you until you were exhausted. Can you feel me
in you…pulsating after I come…playing with you until I am hard again then
doing it all over again.” He kissed her hard and undid her jeans. He slid his
hand down the front of her jeans and between her legs. “You still want me. I
know you do,” Mark said. He kissed her as she tried to do her jeans back up. He
made a phone call. He kissed her hard, pulling her hair to him as he kissed her
intensely. Five minutes later a cab showed up. He took her hand and they got
in. Mark gave him the name of a hotel and told the cabbie to drive. Mark kissed
her. He had a hotel key in his pocket.
They pulled into the hotel and he took her hand pulling her out of the cab.
“Mark. No,” Angel said. “You want it one last time. One last night where
anything goes. Anything,” he said. He kissed her again and headed to the
elevator. “Mark,” Angel said. The doors closed. They reopened on the top floor.
He leaned her against the wall. “I want you so badly. Don’t say no,” Mark said
as he pulled her jacket off. He grabbed her hand and led her down the hallway.
They walked into the room and he backed her up to the king size bed. He pulled
her sweater and shirt off then undid her jeans. “I want one last taste. One last
feel of you when you come. One last fuck,” Mark said. Angel grabbed 3
condoms from her coat pocket. “What’s this for,” Mark asked. Angel got up.
He picked her up, pulling her jeans off. “Mark, I am going home,” Angel said.
He kissed her and pulled her bra off. “No you aren’t. Not tonight,” Mark said.
He pinned her onto the bed and kicked off his shoes. He slid off his jeans and
shirt. “I can’t Mark,” Angel said. He kneeled down. She felt his breath on her.
He pulled her closer to him. She felt his tongue lick her. “Mark,” Angel said.
He kissed and teased her. His tongue did magic. She couldn’t not react. He
made love to her like he used to. Everything was so intense. The minute he
paused, she tried to get up and he pulled her back. They had every kind of sex
you could imagine. By the time they wore themselves out, they were both too
tired to move. Angel got up. She showered, then got dressed. “Where are you
going,” Mark asked. “You can come to the house with them on Friday, but you

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aren’t sleeping there. I can’t have you there,” Angel said. “You mean you can’t
resist the temptation,” Mark said. “No. I mean I don’t want you there. If
everyone wasn’t coming to the house for Christmas, I wouldn’t even see you
Mark. I can’t. I don’t want you there. I’ll come back in between Christmas and
New years to pack my things,” Angel said. She zipped up her coat and left. He
looked on the side table. One condom was used. The other two weren’t.
The elevator doors closed. “Thank god I put that in. I knew he was going to do
that,” Angel thought to herself. She’d protected herself knowing full well that
Mark would try anything. “I am not getting pregnant. Not now,” Angel said.
She headed downstairs and took a cab back to the house.
When she came in, Chase was out cold on the sofa. Angel slipped his glasses off
and moved his papers. His arms pulled her to him. She laid down on his chest.
“Come to bed,” Angel said. His eyes opened and he kissed her. He slid her
sweater off then slid his hand down to her butt, pulling her close to him. His
kisses became more filled with passion. His tongue slid into her mouth teasing
hers. He flipped her onto her back and slid her shirt and bra off. “All mine,” he
said as he kissed her neck. She could feel him against her. Every inch of her
body craved him. She needed him. She needed him to make her feel human
again. To make her feel right again. She slid his shirt off. “So things went well,”
Chase said. “No. Kiss me,” Angel said. He unbuttoned her jeans, sliding his
hands onto her backside. “Come to bed,” Angel said. “Better idea,” Chase
replied. She heard a rustling and a package opening. He pulled her jeans off as
he kissed her back. “Chase,” Angel said. He bit her then his hands came
forward. She could feel his skin against hers. How hard he was. She felt him
slide it into her. They had sex on the sofa, then against the wall, then in the
bedroom, where they finally passed out.
The next morning, Angel woke up and Chase’s arms were wrapped around her.
It was noon. She jumped out of bed. Lila was out cold. She came back into the
bedroom and Chase pulled her back into bed. “She’s napping,” he said. He
kissed her. Angel got up and went into the bathroom, stepping into the hot
shower. She let the hot water run over her until she felt nothing. She showered,
removed what she’d put in the night before, then hid it and toweled herself off.
Chase came in the minute the water stopped running. Angel turned and was
face to face with him. “What,” Angel said. He kissed her and leaned her against
the counter. “Would you cut it out,” Angel said. “Last day of fun. The kids are
home tonight,” Chase said. He kissed her again. “Food first,” Angel said. He
took her hand as they came into the kitchen. He made a fruit salad that morning.
All the California fruit he could find. They had breakfast then Lila woke up. “I
figured she’d be out longer than this,” Chase said. He kissed Angel. “I’ll get her.
You sit and have lunch. She’s probably wanting some food anyway,” Angel

260. 2
said. She went upstairs and into Lila’s room. “Mama. Up,” Lila said. Angel
picked her up and got her changed and dressed and brought her downstairs.
Mark got something out for Lila to eat and put it together for her. “Cay,” Lila
said. “Chase,” Angel replied. “Chay,” Lila said. “Getting there,” Chase said.
He handed the food dish to Angel and put the bib on Lila as Angel slipped her
into the high chair. There was a knock at the door. “I’ll get it,” Chase said.
“Shirt,” Angel said. He pulled his tank on and answered the door. “Mark,”
Chase said. He came back into the kitchen and saw Angel in her robe feeding
Lila. “Hi baby,” Mark said. “Dada,” Lila said. “That’s right. How’s Lila today,”
Mark asked as he sat down beside Angel. “Hungry,” Angel said feeding Lila.
“What are you doing here?” “Leaving to go get them from the airport,” Mark
said. “That’s nice. Have a nice day with them,” Angel said. “They want to do
dinner tonight,” Mark said. “Can’t. Have plans,” Angel said. She finished
feeding Lila then cleaned her off. Mark picked her up. “You said we can’t do
this during Christmas. You have to come or they will suspect something is up,”
Mark said. “It is. Why don’t you just tell them you are a c-h-e-a-t-e-r and an a-s-
s-h-o-l-e,” Angel said. “Not here,” Mark said. “Oh well then. Tell them I am
going to see my parents,” Angel said. Mark tickled Lila and she giggled. “Chay.
Up,” Lila said. “What the? When did she learn that,” Mark asked. “Since she’s
been here,” Angel said.
Mark headed off to pick up his parents and Angel and Chase spent some quality
time with Lila. “So what plans did you have tonight,” Chase asked as he tickled
Lila. Angel looked over at him. “Satin,” she said. “Oh. Those plans,” he said.
“Definitely. My mom is coming down this way tonight to bring the presents
down and offered to look after Lila tonight so I could have some alone time,”
Angel said. “She thought you and Mark,” Chase said. Angel nodded. “So what
time is she coming,” Chase asked. “Any minute,” Angel said. There was a
knock at the door. Angel went and answered it. “Hi mom,” Angel said. “Long
night,” her mom asked. “Just got up early to get some work done,” Angel
replied. They headed to the playroom. “She has grown so much,” her mom
said. “That she has. You remember Grandma right Lila,” Angel said.
“Gamma,” Lila said. “Yep. This is grandma,” Angel said. Lila crawled over to
her and pulled herself up with her hands on the coat. “Oh my goodness. You
didn’t tell me she could almost walk,” her mom said. “She’s definitely a smarty
pants,” Angel said. “Hi Chase. How are you,” her mom said giving him a hug.
“Chase has been helping me out in the mornings with Lila,” Angel said. “Chay,”
Lila said giggling. “Giggle puss,” Chase said. He picked her up. She put her
head on his shoulder. “She just loves you Chase,” Angel’s mom said. “That she
does,” Angel said.
“So here’s the baby bag, and a change of clothes or three. I put a few toys in the
other bag that are her favorites,” Angel said. “So what are you and Mark up to

261. 2
today,” her mom asked. “He’s picking his parents up and spending the day with
them, then we may go out for dinner tonight,” Angel said. “Well, we will see
you tomorrow morning,” her mom said. “The baby food and bottles are all
filled. Just put them in the fridge,” Angel said. “See you tomorrow,” she said.
Lila started to scream. “Cay,” Lila said. “Cay up.” She started to cry. “Mama,”
Lila screamed. “I’ll see you in the morning baby,” Angel said. “Mama,” Lila
screamed again. “Here’s an idea. Why don’t you just take her for a few hours.
She’ll scream bloody murder at bed,” Angel said. “We’ll see how she’s doing.
I’ll call you and let you know,” her mom said. “Mama,” Lila said. Angel took
her. “What is up with you,” Angel said. “No,” Lila said. She was rubbing her
eyes. “What time did she go down for her nap this morning,” Angel asked.
“11,” Chase said. “She only had a short nap. She’s tired,” Angel said. “Give me
a few minutes,” Angel said. She went upstairs with Lila and left Chase with her
mom.
“Mama no Gamma,” Lila said. “Just for a few hours honey. I’ll see you tonight,”
Angel said. She fed Lila and it calmed her. “Just close your eyes,” Angel said.
She rocked her in the chair as Lila fell asleep. She gently put her in the car seat
and carried her downstairs. “Come on,” Angel said. Her mom followed. Lila
gripped her teddy bear and was fast asleep. Angel hooked in the car seat and
said goodbye. “If she’s any problem,” Angel said. “I’ll take good care of her. I’ll
see you around 7,” her mom said as she headed to the hotel.
Angel headed back inside. The minute the door closed, Chase kissed her leaning
her against the door. “Well hello,” Angel said. “Finally,” he said. He picked her
up, wrapping her legs around his waist and carried her back to the bed. “Now
you are all mine,” Chase said. “Don’t you have work to do,” Angel said. “Nope.
Only one thing I want to do,” he said. He kissed Angel undoing her robe. He
kissed her neck, then her shoulders. She pulled his tank off, and undid his jeans.
“Now that you and Mark are done, there’s something I need to know,” Mark
said as he pulled her robe off. “What,” Angel said as his hand slid down
between her legs. “How bad do you want me,” he said. Angel tried to flip him
onto his back. He slid a finger inside her to feel how wet she was. “That much
eh,” he sad as he kissed her, devouring her lips with each kiss. He slid himself
inside her. “Oh god Chase,” Angel said. “Forgot something,” he said. She
reached for the counter and into the drawer to grab a condom. He slid it on, then
continued what he’d started. “Oh my god Chase,” Angel said. He took things
slow, cherishing every second. He kissed her over and over as he moved in and
out of her. “Holy shit Chase,” Angel said as she felt his muscles ripple against
her skin. “I want you to be mine. I won’t share,” he said. “Chase. I’m,” Angel
said. He quieted her with another intense kiss. Every time she came up for air,
he got more and more intense. “Say yes,” he said as they kept going. “Shit,”
Angel said as she climaxed. He kept going. “I can’t until you say it,” he said.

262. 2
He started getting faster. “Oh god Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her again.
“Shit. I can’t. I…..can’t……I can’t go without this,” Angel said. He kept going.
“Yes,” Angel said. She felt him pulsating inside her. Both their hearts were
racing. She caught her breath. “You mean that,” he said. “Mean what,” Angel
said. “That you’d be mine,” Chase said. “I can’t promise anything, but I could.
Yes,” Angel said. “What the hell does that mean,” Chase asked. “I don’t know
Chase. I don’t know what’s going to happen next. I just know I am not losing
you in my life for anything,” Angel said. “You have to stay here,” Chase said.
“But my work is in California,” Angel said. “Do it here. Travel. You aren’t
moving back there,” Chase said. “And just how are you going to prevent that,”
Angel asked. “Gee. I have my ways,” Chase said kissing her again. Angel heard
the doorbell.
She pulled on her jeans and sweater and went downstairs. She got to the door.
“Well hello there,” Angel said as Mark leaned in to kiss her. “How was your
flight,” Angel asked. “Long. Where is Lila,” they asked. “She’s with my mom
for the day. I am working on a project for work today,” Angel said. “She staying
down here,” Mark asked. “At the Rennaisance,” Angel said. “Why don’t we go
down and see them then,” Mark said. “I’m going to get this work done. I’ll see
you two tomorrow for dinner,” Angel said. “Not tonight,” they asked. “I have
to get this in by the end of the day here. I still have lots to do,” Angel said.
“Well join us for dessert then,” they said. “I’ll let you know,” Angel said.
“Okay,” they said as they headed off. Angel shot Mark a dirty look. “See you
later then honey,” Mark said kissing Angel. “We’ll meet you in the car,” they
said. Mark leaned her against the wall. “I know you want it,” he whispered as
he leaned against her. “Go,” Angel said. He kissed her again. He walked away
to the car.
Angel went back inside. “Nice trick,” Chase said. “What an…” He silenced her
with another kiss. “Damn,” Angel said. “What,” Chase asked. “Now I am stuck
with them for dinner,” Angel said. “Tomorrow. We still have a few hours before
the kids are home,” Chase said. “What might you have in mind sexy,” Angel
said. He picked her up and carried her back upstairs. He turned the hot water
on, and filled the Jacuzzi tub. He slipped her sweater off, then slid her out of her
jeans. “Get in,” Chase said. She stepped in and he sat in her lap. “So what do
you think,” Chase asked. “When did you add this little surprise,” Angel asked.
“About the same time as the cottage idea,” he said. “So spoiled,” Angel said.
She felt his fingers touch her. “I thought of an idea,” Chase said. “What’s that,”
Angel said leaning back into the jets. “Leave him and be with me. Him and
Crystal can be together and we can be happy for once,” Chase said. “Crazy.
No,” Angel said. “Then stay here with me. Don’t go back. Ever,” Chase said.
“Why,” Angel asked. “Because I can’t be without you and Lila. You two are my
sanity,” Chase said. “Chase, you have kids of your own. You have Lily. You

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can’t do this too,” Angel said. “I can. I will,” Chase said turning to face her. He
kissed her, leaning his body into hers. “Chase, you can’t. It’s not fair to you,”
Angel said. “You have to at least try to work things out with Crystal,” Angel
said. “It’s in her court. She doesn’t want to, then it’s over,” Chase said. “Then I
can be with you.” Angel slid out of the tub. She grabbed a towel and wrapped it
around her. She heard a phone ringing. She grabbed it.
“Angel, it’s mom. Just wanted to let you know she is okay now. She’s calmed
down. Mark is here with his parents. I guess she wanted a familiar face,” she
said. “Mom, don’t let them take over your time with Lila,” Angel said. “I think
she missed Mark,” her mom said. “Can you put him on for a minute,” Angel
said. Chase came up behind her, sliding her towel off. “Hi babe,” Mark said.
“Enough already. This is time for my mom to be with her. Don’t bother getting
paternal now Mark,” Angel said. “What is that supposed to mean,” he
whispered. “I don’t want cheats and liars in her life. Take your parents
somewhere else. Leave Lila with my mom or else,” Angel said. “We have to
talk,” he said. “No. No more of your kind of talk. Never ever again Mark,”
Angel said. “I bet I could change your mind,” Mark said. Angel hung up.
Chase kissed her shoulder. “I can’t believe him,” Angel said. Chase turned her
around and kissed her. “It’s a game to him. It’s okay,” Chase said. He kissed
her and leaned her against the desk. “Chase, I can’t do this. Lila is with him
right now. Nobody else knows. Nobody knows what a no-good slime he is,”
Angel said. “We do. We are the most important people that know,” Chase said.
“Come lay down with me.” Angel followed him and curled up on the bed with
him. “I can’t believe he would do that. He wanted to see her so badly, all he had
to do was ask,” Angel said. Chase pulled her close to him. “Stop. No more
Mark talk,” Chase said. He kissed her neck, then her shoulder then her ear. He
wrapped his arms around her so he could feel every breath. “I swear. Without
you in my life I would be totally insane,” Angel said. His hand slid from her
stomach, down and between her legs. She leaned into him. She turned her head
and kissed him. He pulled her body to him so she faced him. “I can’t believe
that I have to be at home tomorrow night,” Chase said. “Tonight,” Angel
replied. “I can’t be without this,” he whispered as he pulled his body close to
Angel. “I can’t believe after all of this I have to spend two damn days with him,”
Angel said.
Chase wrapped her leg around him. “One last time,” Chase begged. She
reached for the drawer and he leaned her onto her back. He kissed her making
her forget about what she was doing. He kissed down her torso. Angel tried to
reach for the drawer, but he pulled her to him. She could feel his warm breath
on her. He kissed her leg, her stomach, then licked. Her toes curled just at the
feeling. He teased her with his tongue as she squirmed with pleasure. He held

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her hands as he teased and taunted her. He moved up towards her and she felt
him against her hot skin. He kissed her, devouring her lips and taking her breath
away. She felt him inside her. He was throbbing. She felt his hands grab her
butt and push deeper into her. “Oh god Chase,” Angel said. “Tell me not to go.
Tell me you want me,” Chase said. “I don’t want you to go either. I want…..this
all….night……every……night,” Angel said as he pushed her body towards
ecstasy. “It feels so good,” Chase said as he leaned down to kiss her again. “Oh
my god,” he said as his muscles tensed. “Shit Chase,” Angel said as her legs
started to quiver. “I love you,” Chase said kissing Angel. They both went silent.
All they could hear was both of them panting for breath. “What did you just say
Chase,” Angel asked. “I meant it. You know you heard me,” he said kissing her
again. She stopped him. “Where did that come from,” Angel said. “Lila knows
it. It’s about time you did,” Chase said. He held her in his arms. She was silent.
“Talk to me,” Chase said. “I care about you too. I really don’t know what I
would ever do without you,” Angel said. He kissed her. “I wish I didn’t have to
leave,” Chase said. “What time are they supposed to be home,” Angel asked.
“Between 7 and 8,” Chase said. He kissed her again. “Come with me,” he said.
He got up, heading towards the shower. The doorbell rang. He pinned her
against the bathroom door. “I have to get it,” Angel said. “No,” Chase said. He
kissed her hard. “You have your shower. I have to get the door,” Angel said.
She went into the bedroom and grabbed her robe, tying it tight.
She ran downstairs and got the door. “Mark,” Angel said. “They drove and
dropped me off,” Mark said. “Well. Let me call a cab for you to get back to your
hotel,” Angel said. She walked to the phone and called a cab for him. “10
minutes,” they said. “Thanks,” Angel said hanging up. Mark leaned her against
the kitchen counter. “Don’t even Mark. Back the hell up,” Angel said. “We are
going to work this out if I have to give in and let you have revenge,” Mark said.
“Trust me. You don’t want me to do that. Could choose the other guy over
you,” Angel said. She made some dinner for her and Chase while she waited.
He came downstairs after his shower with nothing but a towel on. “Thought
something smelled good,” Chase said leaning against her at the stove and
wrapping his arms around her, kissing her neck. “Chase,” Mark said. “Oh hey,”
Chase said. “Tell me you two didn’t,” Mark said. “Didn’t what,” Chase said
grabbing two glasses and some wine for him and Angel. “Tell me you didn’t
Angel,” Mark said. She was quiet. “Tell me you two didn’t have sex tonight.
Tell me I am imagining it,” Mark said. “Hallucinating actually,” Angel said.
“You didn’t did you,” Mark said. “Your cab is here,” Chase said. “Fuck the cab.
You didn’t have sex with him Angel. Tell me you didn’t. Tell me you didn’t do
this to get back at me,” Mark said. “Go Mark,” Angel said. “Nothing happened.
We just hung out and talked. That’s all,” Chase said. “I want to hear it from
her,” Mark said. “We talked okay. That’s it. We talked about what a low-down
ass you are for pulling this shit. Then pulling even more shit with Lila at my

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mom’s,” Angel said. Mark kissed her. “This is mine. You touch it Chase and
you are getting your ass kicked,” Mark said. “No Mark. She’s not your
property. She’s a person. She obviously doesn’t want you around so get the hell
out of the house,” Chase said opening the door. Mark kissed Angel one last
time, then walked out. As he was about to turn to say something, Chase
slammed and locked the door.
Mark headed back to the hotel pissed off. “Please don’t let her have chosen him
over me. Please,” he said. He paid the cabbie and got out. He headed into the
lounge at the hotel. “Double scotch,” he said sitting down. All he could
visualize was Angel sleeping with Chase. The thought that what was his wasn’t
his anymore. That she was having sex with him. His eyes welled up. “It’s all
my damn fault. Shit,” Mark said. “This seat taken,” a voice said behind him.
“Yes,” Mark said. “I guess I’ll sit here then,” the voice said. She was 5 foot 8,
and had legs that went on forever. She was slim, and knew just how to work the
sexy dress she was wearing. Mark looked down at his drink and took a sip.
“You look a little down. You okay,” she asked. “No,” he replied. “You look
familiar somehow,” the woman said. “Really,” he said looking past the DD’s to
the green eyes. “Your name Mark,” she asked. “Yes,” he replied taking another
sip of his drink. “You are married to an old former friend of mine. That’s right.
You and Angel are married,” she said. “Have we met before,” Mark asked. “I’m
Denise. I’m an old friend of Angel’s from back when she lived here full-time
instead of Cali. What are you two doing up here,” she asked. “Christmas. Our
first Christmas with our little girl. Angel wanted to show her the snow,” Mark
said. “Not Christmas without it,” Denise said. “So where’s your wife,” she
asked. “At the house,” Mark said. “I don’t get it. She’s there and you are here,”
Denise asked. “Temporary Separation,” Mark said. “Oh. Damn. I’m sorry,” she
said. “Let me buy you another drink,” she said. The two sat and chatted a while
as she spilled the story of why her and Angel weren’t really great friends
anymore. The more drinks, the more tipsy Mark got. By the time they left,
Denise was walking Mark to his room, and he had talked her into coming in for a
nightcap.

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Chapter 30
The next morning, Angel woke up to Lila calling for her in her room. “Coming,”
Angel said. She snuck into Lila’s room. “Mama,” Lila said. “Good morning
honey pie,” Angel said. She changed Lila and then brought her downstairs for
breakfast. She gave Lila her cereal then her bottle. “Cay,” Lila said. “He’s at
home baby. Just you and Mommy today,” Angel said. “Cay why,” Lila said.
“Maybe we’ll go for a wander this afternoon and you can meet the kids,” Angel
said. The doorbell rang. “Let’s see who that is,” Angel said. Mark was at the
door – dark sunglasses and a mark on his neck. “Oh no you aren’t. Don’t even
think it,” Angel said. “Dada,” Lila said. “Cranky daddy,” Angel said. “Who is
Denise,” Mark asked. “A girl I used to be friends with years ago. After she tried
to screw my boyfriend and my exes, we stopped being friends. Why,” Angel
asked. Angel took Lila into the play room and grabbed a few toys for her to play
with. “So you two aren’t close,” Mark asked. “If we were, she would have been
what screwed us up. Why,” Angel asked. “Bumped into her last night,” Mark
said. “You did, did you,” Angel said walking towards the counter to make
herself a cup of tea. “I didn’t do anything,” Mark said. She turned to face him.
Mark kissed Angel, pushing her against the counter. “Get the hell off me,”
Angel said pushing him away. “I have to know if you slept with him alright. It’s
been driving me crazy all night,” Mark said. “I already told you,” Angel replied.
“Look me in the eyes and tell me,” he said. She looked him in the eyes and
said…. “Once…..and it was better than…” He cut her off and kissed her hard,
untying her belt to her robe. He slipped out of his jeans and pulled her robe up.
“Mark. No. You aren’t doing this,” Angel said. He grabbed her hair. “Then
you are wearing something. And I am putting Lily in her play pen,” Angel said.
She tried to move and he wouldn’t let her budge. “Mark, you aren’t getting near
me without protection,” Angel said. He pulled it out of his pocket and put it on.
Angel turned and looked at Lila. She was playing and watching the TV. Angel
felt him against her. “Shit Mark,” Angel said as he penetrated her. “You want
me. I’m not giving you up without a fight,” he said as he roughly had sex with
Angel. By the time he was finished, Angel was pissed off, and Lila was asleep on
the floor with her toys. He kissed Angel hard as she pushed him away to go get
Lila. She was really out cold. Angel took Lila in her arms and asked Mark to
leave. “They’re coming here in a few hours. They think we are happy as shit.
Put on your happy face Angel,” Mark said. He kissed Angel again. “Go get
some sleep. You’re still intoxicated,” Angel said smelling the alcohol on his
breath and pushing him away. “Then you are coming with me,” he said. “No. I
have to take care of Lila. Go to sleep,” Angel said brushing him off. He walked
up the steps. “Last room on the right at the end of the hall,” Angel said. She
walked upstairs as he closed the door. Angel tucked Lila in for her nap and went

267. 2
downstairs. She pulled on her underwear, jeans and t-shirt and called Chase’s
cell.
“I saw the car. You okay,” Chase asked. “No. Denise strikes again,” Angel said.
“Really. Now that’s a name I haven’t heard in eons,” Chase said. “How much
you going to bet me Chase,” Angel said. “Don’t even go there. He wouldn’t
after all this would he,” Chase said. “He was pretty upset last night. I wouldn’t
put it past him,” Angel said. “Did you tell him,” Chase asked. “I told him it
happened once and it was better than he ever has done,” Angel said. “I take it
that meant he tried to top it,” Chase said. “Had it covered. I knew he’d do that,”
Angel said. “I meant to call you today. How are you feeling,” Chase asked. “I
know what you are going to say Chase. I know. We didn’t use anything,” Angel
said. “I didn’t mean to forget,” Chase said. “Liar. Everything’s fine anyway,”
Angel said. “Why,” Chase replied. “Started,” Angel said. “Oh,” Chase replied.
“I know what you were hoping for, but it’s not like we won’t have another
chance,” Angel said. “You know what you are doing to me don’t you,” he
whispered. “Next time, throw in the black satin teddy,” Angel said. “I will come
over there you know,” Chase said. “And the heels. Or just answer the door
naked,” Angel said.
There was a knock at the door. Angel answered it. He grabbed the phone from
her hand and turned it off. He picked her up, carrying her to the bedroom. He
put the monitor on the counter and locked the door. He threw a towel on the
bed and laid her on it then kissed her, devouring her lips. He slipped on a
condom and pinned her to the bed. “I warned you,” he whispered. “Shit,”
Angel said. He was stronger, more intense than before. Deeper. “Oh damn,”
Angel whispered. Her leg quivered as he went deeper, faster. “Shit,” Angel said
trying to catch her breath. “God Angel. Shit,” Chase said. He didn’t move as
they caught their breath. He kissed her again and pulled her to her feet. “You
are so in for it,” Chase said. Angel kissed him. “So how was night one,” Angel
asked. “Cold,” he replied. Angel pulled on her jeans and the rest of her clothes
then snuck back downstairs with Chase. “You sure you are okay,” Chase asked.
“Go. I’ll call you later,” Angel said. He kissed her goodbye and headed back to
the house.
A few hours later, Mark woke up and came downstairs to find Angel and Lila
playing by the tree. “Dada,” Lila said smiling. “Hey princess,” Mark said. He
picked her up and gave her kisses. “Pulled out something for you to wear and
ironed it. It’s on the hanger in the back hall,” Angel said. “What time is it,”
Mark asked. “Around 4. They should be here in an hour or two. Go shower and
change. Miss Lila and I are ready,” Angel said. “I’ll be 10 minutes,” Mark said.
“Oh and by the way. You’re sleeping in there tonight. Don’t even think you are

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going to get into my bed,” Angel said. “Whatever,” Mark replied. He came back
downstairs a half hour or so later, and they headed off to dinner.
“Can we at least try to pretend we are still happy and in love,” Mark said. “Give
me a break Mark. You answer me one thing then,” Angel said. “What,” he
asked. “You sleep with Denise too,” Angel asked. “No. I went to my room,
when she asked if she could stay I said no. I sent her home without getting her
naked,” Mark said. “Gee. Of all times you pick now to get your act together,”
Angel said. He stopped the car. “Stop this. Either we go in there as a happy
freakin couple, or we don’t go,” Mark said. “I would have preferred the not, but
since we are going, fine,” Angel said. “Kiss me then,” Mark said. She gave him a
quick kiss. “A real one,” Mark said. He pulled her to him and kissed her, tongue
and all. “Better,” Mark said. He drove the rest of the way to the hotel to meet
them and they headed inside with Lila.
“Well here they are,” Angel’s parents said to Mark’s parents as Angel, Mark and
Lila headed into the restaurant. “So did you get that project finished last night,”
Mark’s mom asked. “Finally yes. Took me until at least 10,” Angel replied. “It’s
too bad you couldn’t have joined us,” Mark’s mom said. “So is everyone excited
about Christmas,” Angel asked. “Definitely. It being Lila’s first Christmas and
all, it’s going to be a special one,” Angel’s mom said. “Your brother and sister-
in-law are coming in tonight at 8,” Angel’s dad said. “I can’t wait to see them.
It’s been a while,” Angel said. “So, I hear you are thinking of moving,” Mark’s
mom said. “I was considering it for a while. Would like to be closer to my
family,” Angel said. Angel’s dad shot her a look and she mouthed, “Tell you
later” to him. “Well you’d be closer to all of us. It would be a lot less frequent
flier miles though,” Mark’s mom joked. “That it would. I think that it might be
good for Lila though,” Angel said. “So a school in California is out for Lila,”
Mark’s dad said. “I’m not sure. It’s just an idea right now. She has a few years
to go before we need to worry about that,” Angel said. “Good point,” he replied.
They had dinner and chit-chatted, then Mark, Angel and Lila headed home, and
said their good-byes. “So we’ll see you tomorrow morning,” Angel said.
“Around 10,” her dad said. Angel nodded and kissed everyone goodbye and
headed for the car.
“Thank you,” Mark said. “What,” Angel said. “Thank you for not saying
anything,” Mark said. “After Christmas Mark. You are on your own after
Christmas,” Angel said. “You can’t give me another chance,” Mark asked.
“How many times do you need to screw this up before you figure it out Mark?
I’m not giving you anymore time to figure yourself out. I’m done with the
drama, the stress, the worrying that you are cheating. Go sew your oats Mark.
Leave me and Lila out of it,” Angel said as he pulled into the driveway. She got
Lila out of her seat and headed into the house.

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Mark sat outside and lit a cigarette. He looked across the street at Crystal and
Chase’s house. It was perfect on the outside. They weren’t perfect, but they
worked it out. Mark wondered how they did it. How they kept it together after
everything they’d been through. He saw the front door open and Chase heading
for the front door of Angel’s house. “Merry Christmas Mark,” Chase said. “You
too,” Mark said. Chase walked past him and headed inside.
“She was screaming for you,” Angel said as Chase came inside. He followed
Angel upstairs, kissing her neck. “Stop. Not with him here,” Angel whispered.
“You rang Lila,” Chase said. “Cay,” Lila said. “What can I do you for,” Chase
said. “Up,” Lila said. He kneeled down and kissed her. “Up,” Lila said.
“Bedtime. Up tomorrow,” Chase said. Lila sat down. Angel turned on her
mobile and headed into the hall, closing the door behind her. Chase grabbed her
hand, pulling her into her bedroom and locking the door.
“What,” Angel whispered. Chase kissed her hard. “You okay,” he asked.
“Better now,” Angel replied. “I can’t believe that nobody else knows but me,”
Chase said. “Wonder what would happen if you told Crystal,” Angel joked.
“Don’t tempt me. I just might,” he said. He kissed her again. “I can’t do this
now. He’s here,” Angel whispered. He kissed her again and she opened the
door and headed downstairs with the baby monitor. Mark came in from outside.
Angel was setting the table for the next morning and getting everything
organized. “Why are you setting it for 14,” Mark asked. “My parents and yours,
my brother and sister-in-law, Chase and Crystal and the kids,” Angel said.
“Oh,” Mark said. “Almost done,” Angel said. “Foods all ready. Just pop it out
of the fridge and cook it,” Chase said. “Thanks,” Angel said. Chase headed
home. “See you tomorrow,” he said. The minute the door closed, Mark walked
over to Angel.
“Okay. I know I haven’t been perfect. I know I made a million mistakes. Just tell
me that what I am seeing isn’t happening,” Mark said. “What might you be
talking about,” Angel said. “Why was he here,” Mark asked. “Lila was
screaming for him. Guess she got used to having him here,” Angel said. “That’s
all,” he asked. “What Mark. You think that I am screwing his brains out instead
of yours,” Angel said. He leaned against her. “Honestly, Yes,” he said. “Well
gee. I would still be a better person than you wouldn’t I,” Angel said. “I thought
we were starting over,” Mark said. “No. You thought wrong. There is no
starting over. There is no bridge for you to burn Mark. The drawbridge is up
and it’s staying that way,” Angel said. “I didn’t do anything Angel. I swear to
god I didn’t,” Mark said. “Then why did the test turn out that way Mark?
Answer me that,” Angel said. “The only thing that happened after you left to
come here, was that I got my project finished. My assistant came and helped me

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with it. She crashed on the sofa and I slept up in our bed. The next morning, my
brother came over with his girlfriend. She asked me to have a threesome with
them and I said no. She tried to talk me into it, and I repeated my answer and
pushed her off. That’s why I left. I told them they could have the house for
Christmas. That’s all that happened. I didn’t have sex with anyone,” Mark said.
“You really expect me to believe that don’t you,” Angel said. “It’s the 100%
truth,” Mark replied. He wrapped his arms around her waist. “Please believe
me,” he said. Angel tried to squirm away. “I love you. You’re my wife, my best
friend and my life. Don’t do this,” Mark said. “You blew it a long time ago
Mark. You lied to me. You screwed around with how many women. I’m not
doing it. I’m done. After tomorrow, we are finished,” Angel said. He leaned in
to kiss her and she pushed him away.
“Don’t walk away from me,” Mark said. He pleaded with her. “I swear Angel. I
didn’t. I haven’t done anything since we renewed our vows. Nothing. Not a
thing. Please believe me,” Mark said. Angel opened a bottle of wine and poured
herself a glass. “Why should I Mark. Name one time that you haven’t lied to
me. Once that you haven’t intentionally deceived me. You can’t. Don’t try to
Mark. It’s done,” Angel said. She sipped her wine. He took her glass from her
hand and put it on the table. “What Mark. What do you want from me? I am
not going to be your damn doormat. That’s not me. I’m not waiting around for
you to do it again. I’m done. Lila and I are staying here. We aren’t going back,”
Angel said. He kissed her, leaning against her on the sofa. “Mark, stop this.
Why are you doing this,” Angel said. He kissed her again as he moved in closer.
“I love you. That’s why. I’m fighting for us. For that one little tiny spark that I
know is still there. That one little spark that could light us back up. I can’t lose
you. I just can’t,” he said as he kissed her tenderly. “And just how did you think
you were going to change my mind Mark? Time travel,” Angel said. He kissed
her again. “Reminding you of how it was in the beginning. Before all of this.
Before the drama and the other crap. Please. Give me one more chance. Just
wipe the slate clean. One chance,” Mark said. “You want that, you can try Mark.
I’m not coming back there,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “As long as you
are my wife still. I don’t care where we are. I just don’t want to be without you,”
Mark said. She knew in her heart she still cared about him, but now things were
confused. She was falling for Chase.
The next morning, Angel and Mark woke up and brought Lila down to show her
what Santa brought her. Spoiled was an understatement. Angel got herself and
Lila dressed then headed downstairs to start on breakfast. Mark came down a
little while later dressed and ready to go. He held Lila. “Dada,” Lila said.
“Merry Christmas sweetheart,” Mark said as Lila hugged him. They headed in
and played with her toys from Santa as Angel got everything together for
breakfast. By the time everyone showed, breakfast was ready. Chase sat beside

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Angel and Mark sat on the other side. “Merry Christmas everyone,” Angel said
as they all dug into breakfast. Chase whispered something in Angel’s ear. “Got
a special present for you. Give it to you later,” he whispered. Angel nodded and
smiled. She finished her breakfast then fed Lila. Once everyone was finished,
Mark did the dishes while everyone chatted. The kids all went into the playroom
with Lila and Lily and watched Christmas cartoons while the adults chatted. “So
what was this idea you had about staying up here,” Angel’s dad said. “I’m
going to stay a while longer. I think I have had enough of the beach for a while.
I miss being here. Being somewhere that feels like home,” Angel said. It was
news to Crystal. “Besides. How could I beat having two of my best friends in a 5
second circumference of the house,” Angel said. “Good point,” Crystal said as
Chase wrapped his arm around her. They spent the afternoon chatting and
opening gifts. There was only one left under the tree and it was for Angel. Mark
slipped it to her. “Later,” Angel said. “Open it,” he said. Angel opened the
small box and found the ring. Angel stared at him. “Please,” he said. Angel slid
it on giving Mark a look that could kill. “That is beautiful,” Angel’s mom said.
“My son does have amazing taste,” his mom replied. “That I do mom,” Mark
said kissing Angel. Lila headed for a nap while everyone finished cleaning up.
“I’m heading off to my mom’s for dinner with the kids. Thank you so much for
all this,” Crystal said. “You are so welcome. I’ll see you and Chase tomorrow,”
Angel said. “He’s coming later. He said he wanted to help you with dinner,”
Crystal whispered. “Ah. Well tell your family I said Merry Christmas then,”
Angel said. “Will do,” Crystal replied as she hugged Angel and Mark and
headed out with the kids.
An hour or two later, everyone sat down to dinner. “This was a great idea
Angel. Lila has grown so much since we last saw her,” Angel’s sister-in-law
said. “She’s talking sort of too. She took a few steps along the sofa the other
day,” Angel said. “My goodness,” she replied. “Cay. Up,” Lila said. Chase
picked her up and sat her on his lap. “So cute,” Angel’s mom said. They all
finished dinner, then sat around the fireplace having coffee as Lila fell asleep on
Mark. Chase said goodbye to everyone, and Angel walked him to the door. “Be
back at 12,” Chase said. He gave her a quick kiss goodbye and headed out.
Angel came back. “I think I’ll go tuck Lila in. She has had one exciting day,”
Angel said. She headed upstairs and changed Lila and tucked her in. She didn’t
wake up once. She was dreaming away. Angel came back downstairs and
relaxed with the adults. An hour and a bit later, everyone started to head home.
She walked outside with her dad. “What is going on? You two aren’t being too
cozy,” her dad asked. “I think he cheated again. I’m not sure what is truth and
what isn’t. That’s why I am staying. I’m not going back to put up with more of
it,” Angel said. “If you need anything,” he said. Angel hugged him and he
headed off with Angel’s mom and the rest of the family. “Thank you so much
for everything,” Angel said as she said goodbye to Mark’s mom. “Thank you so

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much for including us,” she replied. “That’s what Christmas is about is family,”
Angel said. They headed off and Angel and Mark headed inside. The minute
the door was closed, he kissed Angel. “Don’t Mark,” Angel said turning away.
She took the ring off and handed it to him. “Don’t you ever do anything like that
again,” Angel said. She walked into the living room and grabbed all the coffee
cups and put them in the sink. “Don’t do this Angel. Not today,” Mark said.
“Leave me alone Mark. You’ve done enough,” Angel replied. She headed
upstairs to her bedroom, locking the door behind her.
An hour or so later, Angel’s cell phone rang. “Come downstairs,” Chase said.
She opened the door and came downstairs and out to the front porch. She had
her jeans and sweater on. She grabbed her coat and keys and closed the door
quietly. “Come with me,” Chase said. “Where,” Angel said. He kissed her.
Angel went inside. She ducked her head into Mark’s room. “I’m going out for a
little bit. Keep an ear open for Lila,” Angel said tossing him the baby monitor
and closing the door. She went downstairs and out the front, grabbing her purse.
Chase was in the truck on the street. She hopped in and he took off. “Where are
you taking me to Mr. Lockheart,” Angel said. They got to the first light and he
kissed her hard. “Green,” Angel said pulling away. He headed for the highway.
“What are you doing,” Angel said. “Surprise for you,” Chase said. 15 or 20
minutes passed by. He turned off the highway. He pulled into a park. “What
the,” Angel said. “Look,” Chase said. The lights lit up. The water was red and
green. “All this to see the lights,” Angel said. Chase pulled her to him. “Only
part of the surprise,” he said. “How many parts are there, because I think I
figured out two of the three,” Angel said. He unzipped her sweater. He kissed
her as she was pulled close to feel his hard muscles against her soft skin. “I have
a present for you. I didn’t want anyone to see it. They wouldn’t understand,”
Chase said. He handed Angel a small box. Inside it was a pair of diamond
earrings that were shaped like a key. “Lift the velvet part,” Chase said. He did.
There were a set of keys. “What are these,” Angel asked. “If you decide to go
home, then they won’t mean much. If you decide to stay, they are the keys to my
cottage. Somewhere you and Lila can relax without Mark causing problems.
You can only get there by boat, so I will have to show you how to drive it, but
they are yours,” Chase said. Angel kissed him. She slipped the earrings in and
kissed him again, sliding the box into her purse. The keys were engraved with
hearts on them.
“Chase,” Angel said. “I had to. I had to find somewhere we could really be
alone. The only person that knows about the cottage is Crystal. She only comes
up there when it’s warm, and even then, that’s usually our busiest time at work,”
Chase said. “So it’s our little hideaway is it,” Angel said wrapping her legs
around him. He kissed her and slid her jacket off. “You could put it that way,”
Chase said kissing her neck. “So in the winter,” Angel asked. “Snowmobile.

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The dock can take you over,” Chase said. “What are you thinking?” “Christmas
vacation,” Angel said. He kissed her hard. She slid his jacket off, pushing it into
the back seat. “Here eh,” Chase said. Angel kissed him. “Just saying thank you
properly for my Christmas presents,” Angel said. “Always important to do
that,” Chase replied slipping her sweater off. They kissed and kissed, then
finally came up for air. He slid her jeans off. “Good planning,” Chase said
noticing nothing on underneath them. “Tried to help,” Angel said as he kissed
her and undid his belt. They had sex in the truck, steaming up all the windows.
“So. What were you two talking about,” Chase asked. “What makes you think
we were talking,” Angel said. “You had that get me out of here now sound in
your voice,” Chase said. “Always could read me like a book,” Angel said. “So,”
he asked. “He wanted another chance. He begged. I can’t. I won’t do it again.
There are so few days we get on this planet. I don’t want to spend another one
being aggravated by him,” Angel said. Chase kissed her again, holding her
against him. “Rather spend those days naked and in bed right,” Chase teased.
“A few of them, yes. I just don’t need the stress,” Angel said. “Naked with me,”
Chase said kissing her neck. “Would definitely be more fun with someone,”
Angel said. He kissed her shoulder. “I wanted to do this all day,” Chase said.
“What’s that,” Angel said leaning back against the steering wheel. “Feel you.
Feel how hot I get you,” Chase said. “Really,” Angel said. “Only one thing left,
but I think I may save that for later,” Chase said. “Later as in when,” Angel
asked. “Tomorrow,” Chase said. “What you saving,” Angel said pulling her
body close to his. “Taste,” Chase whispered in her ear licking her earlobe and
nibbling it. Goose bumps appeared on her arms. “Sounds like a plan then,”
Angel said. “I don’t want to leave,” Chase said. “Me either, but we have to,”
Angel said. Chase kissed her one last time as she slid off his lap. He refused to
stop and laid her on the front seat of the truck. “We have to go Chase,” Angel
said. He kissed her again to silence her. “Don’t say it,” he said. “Sleep,” Angel
said. He slid back over to his seat. “Guess you have a point there,” Chase joked.
Angel slid her clothes back on. “When is he leaving,” Chase asked. “I don’t
know. I told him I didn’t want to talk about this tonight,” Angel said. “I hope to
god it’s soon,” Chase said. Angel kissed him as he did up his jeans and started
the truck.

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Chapter 31
The next morning, Angel woke up alone in her bed. She missed waking up with
Chase. The picture she had of him with Lila first thing in the morning by the
window was etched in her memories. She got up and headed into Lila’s room.
Lila was still asleep. She walked downstairs, and Mark was in the kitchen. She
looked at the clock. She laughed. “So I guess you got up with her this morning,”
Angel said. “She got up at 5 and lasted until 9. She was out cold when I put her
back down,” Mark said. “She kept asking for Chase,” Mark said. “She definitely
got attached. Or maybe she has a baby crush on him. Don’t blame her myself,”
Angel said. “Where the hell did you two go,” Mark asked. “What do you mean
you two,” Angel said. “You and Chase. I saw you get into the truck,” Mark
replied. “We went to go talk. We wanted to be alone without anyone disturbing
us,” Angel said. “So the fact that your coat smells like his cologne means what,”
Mark said. “Okay snoop. It means we sat near each other,” Angel said. She
shook her head and made herself some breakfast. “Did Lila eat breakfast,”
Angel asked. “Warmed up her bottle and gave her some porridge,” Mark said.
Angel felt a tug on her robe. Lila was leaning against the cupboard trying to
walk. “Well hello,” Angel said. “La you Mama,” Lila said. “I love you too
baby,” Angel said. Lila kissed her. “Where did she learn that from,” Mark
asked. “Probably Chase,” Angel said. “And how is that,” Mark asked. “When I
attempt to get sleep, sometimes he woke up with her and let me sleep and had
conversations with her. That must have been it,” Angel said.
Angel headed out for the day with Lila. They stopped in and picked up a few
items during the boxing day sales, then headed back to the house. Lila slept all
the way home. She pulled in the driveway and saw Chase outside with Mark.
All she heard were loud voices. She parked, grabbed Lila and the bags and
walked over to them. “I don’t want Lila thinking you are her dad. You aren’t.
You have your own. Leave mine alone,” Mark said. “What are you two
screaming about? Do you have to do this out here,” Angel said going in the
house. “I don’t want him in our house,” Mark said. “Good thing it’s my house
then,” Angel said as Chase opened the door for her and Lila. “Cay. La you,”
Lila said. “Love you too Lila,” Chase said. “This is exactly what I mean,” Mark
said. “Dada. La you,” Lila said. “Love you too baby,” Mark said. “You were
saying,” Angel said. “I don’t get why he has to be here all the time,” Mark said.
“Because he is my friend. That’s why. He helps me with Lila. That’s all Mark.
Stop freaking out,” Angel said putting the outfits she bought into the washer.
Angel put Lila upstairs for a nap, then came back downstairs. “Enough already
okay Mark,” Angel said. “She’s my wife Chase. Not yours. This is my family.
Not yours. Got it,” Mark said. “Mark, come in here for a minute,” Angel said
going into the living room. “I’ll grab Lila her bottle,” Chase said.

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“What,” Mark said. “Stop this okay. You’re jealous of Chase. You’re jealous of
the fact that Lila cries for him. That she said I love you to him first. Stop. She
tells everyone that. She even told the checkout cashier at the grocery store,”
Angel said. Chase was here while nobody else was. I tried it alone. I needed
someone to help and he did. That’s all. Stop freaking out at him over nothing,”
Angel said. “Tell me you didn’t sleep with him. Tell me that last night, when
you two were out, that you didn’t sleep with him,” Mark said. “What is wrong
with you? We didn’t do anything. We talked. What is your problem,” Angel
said. “Him,” Mark said. “I don’t want to share you with him. I don’t want his
hands on you, his lips on you. Nothing. You’re my wife,” Mark said. “Guess
you should have thought of that before you cheated on me and lied to me,”
Angel said. She got up to walk into the other room. He grabbed her hand. “Tell
me you didn’t sleep with him. Please,” Mark said. “What is your problem
Mark,” Angel said. “Just tell me. Tell me the truth,” Mark said. “He has been
my friend and that’s all. Nothing else,” Angel said. “Not once since you got
here,” he said. “Once. That’s all. Once. Now get the hell over it,” Angel said.
“When,” Mark asked. “It is that important to you,” Angel asked. “Yes. I want
to know when,” he asked. “About the same time I found out that you had
cheated. On camera,” Angel said. “You sure only that once,” Mark said. “Yes.
Now stop all this crap. You are the only one that’s going to go back to California
Mark. You and you alone,” Angel said. He pulled her to him. “I am not leaving
here without you,” Mark said. “You will Mark. You told me to think about what
you said. I did. You’ve blown it too many times. You are the one that’s
leaving,” Angel said. He kissed her hard, then leaned her against the wall. “I’m
not giving you up. I don’t care what I have to do. I’m not losing you,” Mark
said. Angel pushed him, and he pulled her closer.
“I know you remember back to the good times. To the times where we didn’t
want to go to work because it would be too long of a day. Where you were my
teddy bear in bed. Where you craved me. I know you remember. Those days are
what I hold onto. The days where we would spend Friday nights with a bottle of
wine, and have our totally truthful conversations. Don’t tell me those days
weren’t happy for you,” Mark said. “They were, but when I realized all the lies
you told, they didn’t seem so happy anymore,” Angel said. “What about when
we renewed our vows. You telling me that didn’t mean anything,” Mark said.
“After I find out, at my own kitchen table mind you, that you screwed around on
me? Hell no,” Angel said. “Is there nothing left? You don’t love me at all
anymore,” Mark asked. “I do Mark, but so much has changed. I just need a
sanity break. I need a break from you and all the cheating and the lying. The
problem is, I know that when and if that break is made, you will be screwing the
first woman that walks past you. You can’t be celibate for a week. It’s not
possible with you,” Angel said. “What are you trying to say,” Mark asked. “I

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need a break. A real one. Two months. Not a few days. At the end of the two
months, we’ll see. No harassing. No calling. No showing up. A real break.
Let’s see if you can last that long without screwing around. If you can pull it off,
we’ll see. I’ll sit down and talk to you at the end of the two months,” Angel said.
“Then I get one last night. One night alone with you. Deal,” he asked. He
kissed Angel. “Fine. Tonight. Then you leave tomorrow morning,” Angel said.
“Fine,” Mark said. Chase overheard the deal. He prayed that this meant she was
his. He went upstairs and brought Lila her bottle.
When Chase came downstairs he went into the kitchen. Mark was gone.
“Where,” Chase asked. “He said he had to pick something up. It was the only
way I could do this Chase. I have to make a decision with a clear head,” Angel
said. “So when are you going to the cabin then,” he asked. “Picked up extra
sweaters and warm woolies today. Going to go down tomorrow,” Angel said.
“I’ll tell her that I have to go to a meeting,” Chase said. “But,” Angel replied. “I
do have to, but not until Wednesday. She knows about it. I’ll just tell her I am
going early,” Chase said. “Where,” Angel asked. “Let’s just say I can pick up
anything you need or forgot while I am there,” Chase said. “I wouldn’t go near
it if I were you,” Angel said. “You have your keys. I’ll go while he’s at work,”
Chase said. “We’ll talk about it later. You go. He’ll be back in a few minutes,”
Angel said. “One more night then you are all mine again,” Chase whispered as
his hand grazed her breast. “See you later,” Chase said heading out as Mark
came inside.
“So, you ready for your night,” Mark asked. Lila woke up. “Mama. Up,” Lila
screamed. Angel headed upstairs to Lila. “What’s wrong baby. Bad dream,”
Angel asked. Lila hugged her. She grabbed her untouched bottle and sat down
in the rocker with her. “Now, lean your head against mommy. Everything is
fine,” Angel said. She fed Lila, then a short while later, Lila was out cold.
“Sweet dreams,” Angel said as she gently placed Lila back in her crib and tucked
her in. She snuck out of the room, closing the door. Mark was right behind her.
“So, ready for your night,” Mark asked. “It’s getting close to dinner time Mark,”
Angel said. “Then all the more reason,” he said. They headed downstairs, and
dinner was on the table. He’d ordered her favorite Chinese food and set the table
with candles. “Even picked up a bottle of your favorite wine,” Mark said. Angel
checked it out. She smiled. “Guess you remembered almost everything,” Angel
said. “You mean these,” Mark said pulling out a small box of condoms from his
pocket. Angel grabbed two glasses and opened the wine. “Let me,” Mark said
opening the bottle. Angel sat down. “Hopefully it isn’t spiked,” Angel thought
to herself. They sat down to dinner, and actually had a good time. Lila woke up
around 6, so they fed her and played with her a while until her bedtime.

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“I missed this,” Mark said. “Missed what,” Angel said. “Playing with her.
Watching her grow up. Seeing her learn new things. I missed it,” Mark said.
“Well, you were a little busy screwing around Mark. Just think about how much
else you will miss,” Angel said. He kissed Angel. He poured her another glass
of wine. “It is Friday you know,” Mark said. “Okay. Shoot,” Angel said sitting
up in her big comfy chair. “Over here,” Mark asked. Angel sat on the sofa next
to him. “When,” Mark said. “When what,” Angel replied. “When was it,” he
asked. She knew what he meant. “The night of the test. I was upset and lost it.
He comforted me. That’s all,” Angel said. “How many women,” Angel asked.
Mark looked nervous. “Since we renewed our vows. How many,” Angel said.
“I told you I haven’t,” Mark said. “And the lie detector said you were lying.
Answer,” Angel said. “One,” he replied. “Who,” Angel asked. “Does it matter,”
Mark asked. “Assistant or your brother’s girlfriend,” Angel said. “Nikki,” Mark
said. “Who’s Nikki,” Angel asked. “An old friend. I bumped into her when I
was out one day. You were gone. We had dinner, and talked, then headed to the
beach,” Mark said. “And just why would she sleep with you knowing you were
married,” Angel asked. “She was a friend from the bar,” Mark said. “So you
went down there too did you,” Angel said. “Once. That’s all,” Angel said.
“Okay. Enough. Are you sure it was only once with Chase? Once since you got
here,” Mark asked. “Once that we had amazing mind-blowing sex. Yes. Other
than that, he slept in the other room, and when I woke up he was laying on the
bed with Lila in his arms,” Angel said. “Did you want to do it again,” Mark
asked. “Yes. Knowing what I know now, I wish I had,” Angel said. He kissed
her. “No Mark. You promised me. You promised no more bar. No more
swinger stuff. You cheated and lied. How could you,” Angel said. “I’m sorry. I
was only there an hour or two. Just to say hi to some friends. That’s all,” Mark
said. “That’s more than enough Mark,” Angel said. She got up and walked into
the kitchen. She filled up her wine and cleaned up the playroom.
“Don’t. Don’t get mad at me all over again. Please,” Mark said. “I stopped
Chase from sleeping with me over and over again. I never would have ever
thought to do that to you. How could you,” Angel said. “It was once. That’s all.
I didn’t do anything. I left and came home and packed my things,” Mark said.
“You really expect me to believe that don’t you,” Angel said. “I’m not lying to
you,” Mark said. “I don’t believe you Mark. After all that’s happened, I can’t,”
Angel said. “You can’t believe that I would go there and not cheat on you? You
can’t see me walking in there and not getting a taste. Am I hearing you right,”
Mark asked. “After everything we have gone through, how can you expect me
to,” Angel said. “Nikki was the only one. I bumped into her and we had coffee.
Nothing else in there,” Mark said. Angel sipped her wine. He took the glass
from her hand and filled it up. “I can’t do this Mark. I can’t,” Angel said as her
eyes welled up. “I didn’t mean to do this. I swear. I wanted one last happy
night with you. One more chance to show you how much I love you. How

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much I need you. How much I don’t want you to end up with Chase,” Mark
said walking away. “What is that supposed to mean,” Angel asked. “It means I
see the way he looks at you. I know him and Crystal are having problems. I
know he wants you. I know he would love nothing more than to fuck you every
night and make you come over and over. I know that’s what he wants. Don’t try
to dissuade me. He wants you. I just don’t want to lose you to anyone. I don’t
want to lose you period,” Mark said. He grabbed himself something stronger
than wine. “Mark,” Angel said. “I’m right aren’t I,” he asked. “He is falling for
you.” “I don’t know. I just know we can’t keep going on like this. Everything is
fine for a while, then a major problem, then calm, then storm. I can’t do it
anymore,” Angel said. “I promise that I will stop this. Please,” Mark said. “Still
think we should have this break Mark,” Angel said. “I can’t do this. I can’t walk
away for 2 months,” Mark said. “And I can’t live like this anymore,” Angel said.
He kissed her hard, putting his drink onto the counter.
“Please,” Mark said. He kissed Angel, pulling her close to him. “Mark, I can’t.
Just give me the time. Six weeks. Please,” Angel said. “ I can’t be without you,”
Mark said. He kissed her again, picking her up and wrapping her legs around
him. He carried her up the stairs to her bed. “Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her
again, slipping her sweater off. Her black lace bra was revealed. “Damn,” he
said. He kissed Angel, devouring her lips with his own. He pulled her close to
him, sliding her belt off, and undoing her jeans. “Mark,” Angel said. “I want
you too baby,” Mark said. “Stop,” Angel said. He stopped and pulled his
sweater off. Lila was crying. Angel gave her another 10 minutes. She was still
crying. Angel got up and went in and checked on her. “Mama,” Lila said crying.
Her arms were up in the air. “What’s wrong baby,” Angel said wiping her tears
away. She needed a change, but that wouldn’t have woken her. “Ow,” Lila said.
“Where’s the ow,” Angel asked. Mark came in. “Can you grab her soother from
the freezer,” Angel said. He grabbed it and came upstairs. Angel gave it to Lila
and she quieted down. “Owie better,” Angel said giving her the new soother.
Lila nodded and hugged Angel. “Okay. Now let’s just sit, and relax,” Angel
said. She started singing her a song her mom had sung to her when she was
little. A little while later, Lila was fast asleep again. She tucked her back in and
tiptoed out of the room, closing the door behind her.
“You are so good with her,” Mark said. “Took a while, but I think I got the hang
of it,” Angel said. She got ready for bed. Mark followed her. “Five weeks,” he
said. “Six. It’s not really that long,” Angel said. “What about Lila,” Mark said.
“6 weeks until her birthday,” Angel said. “So her birthday is the day,” Mark
asked. Angel nodded. She finished getting ready for bed, then headed back into
the bedroom. “Let me help you with that,” Mark said. He slid his hand down
the front of her jeans. “Just the way I like it,” Mark whispered in her ear. She got
goose bumps. He slid her jeans off, dropping them to the floor. He noticed the

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black lace g-string. “Damn,” he said. Angel turned to face him. He kissed her
and picked her up laying her onto the bed. He slid off her g-string and bra, and
kissed her. He slid his jeans off then kissed down her body. “Mark,” Angel said.
He kissed her, laying his body against hers. “I love you,” he said as she wrapped
her legs around him. “I love you too,” Angel said. He kissed her and made love
to her. “I missed this. I missed your body against mine,” Mark said. She would
never say it, but she missed him too. She missed the man she had met years
before. The one that saved her from James and his stupid ways. The one that
made her feel so good. So loved. Every move his body made showed how well
he knew her body.
That night they fell asleep so close together that she could feel the oxygen
entering his lungs. She could feel his heartbeat against her back. The warmth of
his body against hers calmed her to sleep. Once he’d fallen asleep, Angel snuck
out of bed. He’d done as she asked. He’d used protection. She slipped her robe
on and went in to check on Lila. She was out cold. “Someday, I really hope that
all this will be over. I really do,” Angel said as she sat in the slider chair. She
tried to calm her nerves. She headed downstairs for a glass of wine and sat in the
living room. She turned on the fireplace, and grabbed her book and a blanket
and curled up on the sofa.
The next morning, Angel woke up and she was back in the bedroom. Mark
wasn’t there. She went in to check on Lila, and Mark was rocking her in the
chair. “She really is growing up so fast isn’t she,” Mark said. “Definitely,” Angel
said. “Mama. La you,” Lila said raising her arms up. Mark handed her to
Angel. “Wanna show Dada your surprise,” Angel said. She sat down on the
carpet. Lila stood up and walked a step or two with Angel’s help. “Oh my god.
Are you serious? I missed this,” Mark said. “Wanted to surprise you with it,”
Angel said. “There’s a gift under her crib for you. Has the gold ribbon,” Angel
said. Mark pulled it out. It was a baby book of pictures of him and Lila. From
her first pictures to more recent ones. “When did you get time to do this,” Mark
asked. “Now you know why Chase is always here. When she naps, I work on
it,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Thank you,” he said. He kissed Angel again.
Lila crawled over and climbed into Mark’s lap. “So what time is your flight,”
Angel asked. “Noon,” he replied. “Breakfast,” she asked. Mark nodded. He
grabbed Lila and changed her, then brought her downstairs.
Angel got breakfast ready for everyone. Angel fed Lila as Mark sipped his
coffee. “Amazing. She won’t eat it without the peaches,” Angel said. “My little
gourmet,” Mark joked. Lila finished breakfast, then Angel brought her into the
playroom to play. “I’m packed,” he said. “I still wish you were coming with
me.” “Six weeks. Then we will talk at her birthday party. I added a webcam to
my computer so you can still see her,” Angel said. “I can’t go six weeks without

280. 2
you. Without skin on skin contact. I can’t,” Mark said. “If you don’t think you
can and convince yourself, you won’t. Work on you. Work on why this
happened in the first place,” Angel said. He kissed her. She got up and did the
dishes. “Don’t take the ring off okay,” Mark said. “Why would I,” Angel said.
He wrapped his arms around her while she did the dishes. “I’ll miss you,” he
said. “Me too,” Angel said. “One last time before I go,” he suggested. “Not
when she’s awake. I have to keep an eye on her,” Angel said. “Better idea then,”
he said. He took Angel’s hand and led her to the sofa in the TV room. They laid
down and he curled up in her arms. “The only other thing I can’t live without,”
he said. He kissed her passionately on the sofa. Lila giggled. “What you
giggling at,” Mark said. Lila crawled over. She stood up with help from the
sofa. She handed Angel the toy phone. “Thank you,” Angel said. Angel
pretended to dial. “It’s for you Lila,” Angel said as Lila took it back. She played
a while by the sofa. Mark kissed her again. “O,” Lila said. Oprah came on the
television. Mark laughed. “Watching Oprah were you,” he teased. “Was a good
show the other day,” Angel joked. “One last kiss before I leave,” he said. He
kissed Angel again and slid his hand under her robe. “Shit Mark,” Angel
whispered. His fingers slid into her. “One last time,” he whispered. He kept
going, moving his fingers faster, deeper. “Stop,” Angel said. He moved and
licked her as she came. “One last taste,” he said as he moved back up to her lips.
He kissed her again. “It’s after 9. Don’t you have to be there at 10,” Angel said.
He kissed her, then got up, grabbing Lila. “Well princess, Daddy’s going home.
I’ll see you soon okay. I love you,” he said. “La you Dada,” Lila said. She
hugged him. Tears welled up in his eyes. Angel took Lila from his arms.
“Promise me. Once a week. If anything new happens, you have to tell me. I
don’t want her forgetting who I am,” Mark said. “Promise,” Angel said. He
kissed her again, and kissed Lila, then grabbed his bags and headed for the rental
car. “See you soon,” Angel said. She waved goodbye at the door with Lila.
Mark waved hopping into the car. He pulled out, paused then headed to the
airport. “Why Dada,” Lila said. “He’s going home,” Angel said.
“Bath time,” Angel asked Lila. She nodded. Lila loved bubble baths. Guess she
got that from her mom. They headed upstairs and Angel and Lila had a bubble
bath. Lila curled up in her arms in the tub. “La you Mama,” Lila said. “I love
you too sweetheart. Always will,” Angel said. Angel washed her hair and Lila’s,
then they stepped out and got dried off. Lila went down for a nap, and Angel
got dressed. Her phone beeped. It was a text message from Chase.
You okay? Saw his car leave. Coast clear?
Angel replied back.

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Fine. His flight was at 12. Having a quiet day with L
She pressed send and sat down on the bed. She changed the sheets, and cleaned
up. She got the entire house spotless by the time Lila woke up from her nap. It
was almost 12. Angel got some lunch together for Lila. She went upstairs and
changed her, then brought her down for lunch. They had a nice lunch together,
then Angel decided to take Lila for a drive. They headed for the falls.

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Chapter 32
Angel walked down by the water and looked at the falls, all frozen. Lila had
never seen it. “My grandpa used to bring me here when I was little,” Angel said.
“We used to be down here all morning. We’d wander through the park, take
pictures of the water, then head home with fresh fudge. Guess you’re a little too
small for fudge.” Angel joked. “Cay why,” Lila said. “Chase is at home honey.
Just you and Mom today,” Angel said. “Cay,” Lila said. Angel looked around.
She saw him. She crossed the street to meet him. “What are you doing here,”
Angel said. “Don’t forget how well I know you. You need to think this is where
you come,” Chase said. “I guess you do know me. I wanted to show Lila where
I used to come when I was little with my grandfather. We came down here for
walks all the time,” Angel said. “It is definitely different all frozen,” Chase said.
“So, what are you doing down here,” Angel asked. “The kids wanted to go to the
haunted house. Lily’s at home with Crystal,” Chase said. He took Lila out of her
arms and carried her. “Coffee,” he asked. Angel nodded. They headed up to a
restaurant. He sent a text to his daughter to tell her where he was. She replied.
“So how did last night go,” Chase asked. Angel slipped Lila’s jacket off. “Fine. I
think he really does want to fix things Chase. I just don’t know if I can do this.
He begs, gets what he wants then screws up again. I don’t know if I want to take
the chance,” Angel said. “How long did you two agree on,” he asked. “Six
weeks. That’s it. After that, I have to make a decision. I called a private
investigator friend of mine to keep an eye on him. Inconspicuously of course,”
Angel said. “You know that he’s not going to give you good news,” Chase said.
“I hope he does actually,” Angel said. “He is my husband Chase.”
The kids came running across the street to meet Chase. “Hi Auntie Angel,” the
kids said giving her hugs and kisses. “Well hello to you too,” Angel said. The
waitress brought over some hot chocolate for the kids. “You guys have fun,”
Chase asked. “Yeah. We got scared though. Was really fun. We want to go
play at the midway,” they said. “You up for some fun,” Chase asked. “We’ll
stay for a bit. We have to get home around 3,” Angel said. They finished their
hot chocolates, then headed off to the midway. Chase and Crystal sat on the
bench with Lila. “So you telling me that you are giving him another chance,”
Chase asked. “I don’t know. I just need time to think in peace,” Angel said.
“What changed last night,” he asked. “We talked. He told me the real truth. He
also knows exactly how I feel. I told him we had, and he freaked. He said the
reason why he was so worried, was that he didn’t want to lose me and have Lila
grow up thinking you are her daddy,” Angel said. “Figures he’d blame it on
me,” Chase said. “He didn’t. He said that’s why he started the fight with you. I
can see it from that point of view, but he also has figured out how much you care
about me. He knows. I can’t blame him for wanting to fight for me. For me and
Lila. I gave him a task for the next 6 weeks. I told him no other women, no bar.

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Just working on him,” Angel said. “That should last what, a day,” Chase said.
“Would you stop. You work on you and Crystal okay?! Gees. Like you and her
are perfect,” Angel said. “We aren’t and we both admit it. We lost the spark
altogether. I tried to do something special for her last night. Just the two of us
alone. It was as if we were just two friends. Nothing else. No chemistry. The
spark is gone and we both know it. We still love each other, but the passion is
gone,” Chase said. “Let me plan something for you two and see if it works,”
Angel said. “Okay. Go ahead puppet master,” Chase said. “I’m taking Lila
home. I’ll talk to you tonight and give you the details. Setting it up for
tomorrow night,” Angel said. “Okay,” he said hugging Angel. “Just walking
her to the car. Stay with your sister,” Chase said. “I’m parked 10 feet away
Chase,” Angel said. He walked her outside and pulled her into an abandoned
doorway. He kissed her. “Call me tonight,” he said. Angel nodded.
She headed home with ideas running through her mind. She called a restaurant,
a hotel and got everything organized for them. She emailed the info to Chase.
No details, just where to go. Lila played on the floor. She wrote:
PS. The kids are with me tomorrow night. Sleepover. Including
Lily. Lila should get to know her.
Angel gave Lila some dinner, then they curled up together on the sofa in their
pajamas. “Cay,” Lila said. “Tomorrow,” Angel said. “No now,” Chase said
standing behind the chair. “Cay up,” Lila said. He picked her up and sat down
beside Angel. “So what the heck are you planning,” he asked. “Just follow the
directions. You’re staying at the Hilton, then going to the Stillwater Spa, then
dinner. Everything is side by side. Dinner involves a suit. That’s all you need to
know,” Angel said. “You know it isn’t going to work,” Chase said. Lila started
to yawn. “Want a bedtime story Miss Lila,” Chase said. She put her head on his
shoulder. He carried her upstairs and read her Cinderella.
By the time the story was finished, Lila was out like a light. He tucked her into
bed and snuck out. He came back downstairs and Angel was reading with her
glass of wine. He slipped it out of her hand and dropped the book to the floor.
“Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her as he wrapped his arms around her. “You
can’t even give her a chance can you,” Angel said. He kissed her hard again,
devouring her lips. He slid her shirt off, kissing her breasts. “Stop this. You are
married Chase. We should never have started this in the first place,” Angel said.
He kissed her again. “Don’t ever say that,” Chase said. His hand slid along her
soft leg, wrapping it around him. “Chase,” Angel said. He picked her up,
turning the fireplace off, and carried her to her bed. “Chase, quit it,” Angel said.
He laid her onto the bed, untying her robe. “Black satin. Nice,” he said. He

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kissed her again, sliding the teddy across her skin and off. He pulled his sweater
off. She felt his muscles against her. His strong arms holding her. His strong
hands grasping her shoulders from behind as her back arched and he kissed her
chest. “God I missed this,” he said as his hands slid down to her butt. He pulled
her close to him as she felt his breath on her. “Chase,” Angel said. His tongue
rubbed against her. He did everything slowly and seductively. He licked and
teased until he knew she couldn’t take anymore. He moved up her body, sliding
his fingers into her. “Shit,” Angel said as her breathing sped up. “Tell me you
want me,” he whispered. “Chase,” Angel said. “Say it,” he said. He undid his
jeans and slid them to the floor. “Chase,” Angel said. He slid his fingers out and
started to make love to her. “Holy shit,” Angel said. He kissed her. His rippling
abs moving against her. “Say you want me,” he said. “When don’t I,” Angel
said. He went deeper, stronger, faster. She came once, then twice before he
finally came. “Don’t ever say we shouldn’t have,” he said. “Oh my god,” Angel
said catching her breath. “This was never a mistake,” Chase said. “Never.”
Angel curled up in bed with Chase’s arms around her. She felt every muscle of
his body against hers. “Chase,” Angel said. “Yes beautiful,” he whispered.
“You have to promise me something,” Angel said. “What. Anything,” he said.
“Promise me you will give tomorrow night a chance. That you’ll actually make
an effort,” Angel said. “It won’t work, but I will,” Chase said. “You have to
check in by 2,” Angel said. “You trying to say that I have to spend the day away
too,” he said. “The kids can stay here. I’m just across the street. They can hang
with their friends during the day, and I will be here with Lila and Lily,” Angel
said. “If you want me to, I will. Just one last request,” Chase said. “What’s
that,” she said. “If it doesn’t, then you stop saying we are a mistake,” Chase said.
“I guess so,” Angel said. “No. You know we weren’t. We never have been,”
Chase said. “Just think we went too far. We shouldn’t be doing this when we
are both married,” Angel said. “That can be rectified,” Chase said. “Just give
tomorrow a chance. For me,” Angel said. “Okay. God I am going to miss you,”
he said. “One night? It’s not like I won’t be here when you get back,” Angel
said. He kissed her neck and got up. He took her hand pulling her to her feet.
“What,” Angel said. He walked into the bathroom and started the shower. He
pulled her to him and kissed her. “You know you are a crazy guy don’t you,”
Angel teased. He pinned her against the wall of the shower as the warm water
hit his shoulders. She felt him against her. He kissed her as he leaned his hot,
wet body against her. “Turn around,” he said. He kissed her shoulder and neck
as the water soaked her head. She felt him against her as her back arched to take
him in. They had sex in the shower. He held her close as he penetrated her,
deeper and stronger than before. More forceful than before. “I’ll be coming back
to you the next morning you know,” he whispered. “Guess I should rest up now
then,” Angel said as she caught her breath. They finished their shower and
Angel headed to bed. He wrapped a towel around him and laid down beside

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her. “So what is this plan,” Chase said. Angel told him the details as he got
dressed. “You think that’s supposed to work do you,” he said. “It will. If I
know her at all, it will,” Angel said. “By the way. Don’t be surprised when roses
show up for her tomorrow. Special order,” Angel said. She walked Chase to the
door downstairs. “I’ll call you when we get home,” Chase said. “Give it a real
chance okay,” Angel said. “Alright. I will,” Chase said giving Angel a hug. He
kissed her, holding her close to him. “I am going to so miss this tomorrow,” he
said. “Go. Get that sexy butt out of here,” Angel said. He gave her one last kiss
goodbye and headed home. Angel headed upstairs and went back to bed.
The next morning, Angel woke up to Lila crying for her. “Okay, I’m coming,”
Angel said as she tied up her robe and headed into Lila’s room. “Mama,” Lila
said with tears streaming down her face. “Oh sweetheart. What’s wrong,”
Angel said. She noticed a tooth had come in. “Oh Lila. Shhh,” Angel said as she
picked her up and held her in her arms. She was still upset. Angel changed her.
“Still ow,” Angel asked. Lila put her fingers in her mouth. Angel brought her
downstairs and gave her the teething ring. She quieted a little while Angel made
her breakfast. “You are just going to keep me on my toes today aren’t you,”
Angel said. She gave Lila her breakfast, then logged onto her computer in the
kitchen while she kept a close eye on Lila. Chase and Crystal came over and
dropped Lily off to play with Lila. “Thanks so much for looking after them.
They can be a handful,” Crystal said. “You two have fun. You deserve a break,”
Angel said. Chase stared at Angel. “Everything they need is in the bag,” Crystal
said. “We’ll all be just fine,” Angel said. “The kids are down the street playing
with their friends. They should be out of your hair until at least dinner time.
They’re down there for the afternoon,” Chase said. “Have a great time,” Angel
said scooting them out. Angel heard Lila giggle. The two were a great pair.
Angel came in and sat with them a bit. “And how are we doing,” Angel asked.
“Good,” Lily said. She was about 9 months older than Lila. They were both in
the cute stage. Angel got a few documents done as she watched the girls. An
email came in from Mark.
Miss you already. I can’t believe I agreed to this. Came home
and Goldie was looking around for you. I’ve taken her out this
morning once already and she wouldn’t stop until she got to the
cove. Wish you were here. Raven and the girls were asking about
you. Told them you decided to hang out for a while longer to visit
family. What the hell do I tell them? I know I screwed up, but I
can’t say that to them. What do you want me to say to them? I
told them to email you. I love you. I really do. – Mark

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Angel smiled. She looked over at Lila and Lily. They were playing and giggling.
“Two isn’t so hard,” Angel thought to herself. She pulled out a few new items
that Lila had got for Christmas. “Do you want to try these,” Angel said. She
handed one to Lila and the other to Lily. That kept them busy a while. When
Lily came over to her and put the puzzle on her lap, Angel was shocked. “You
know how brilliant you are Lily. Wow. Here’s another one. You try this one,”
Angel said. Lila rolled the ball over to Angel. “Good girl. You are so smart. I
am so proud of you. Wow,” Angel said. She grabbed something else for Lila to
play with. Lily got a few puzzles done, then tired of that plan. She went and
turned the TV on. “Bob,” Lily said trying to call Bob the builder to the TV.
Angel changed the channel to what Lily wanted and she smiled. “That’s Bob,”
she said. “I know Lily. Why don’t you tell Lila all about him,” Angel said. They
sat together and Lily talked to Lila telling her all about Bob the Builder. She
knew they were a good pair. Friends for life she thought.
By the time dinner rolled around, the kids were all at the house. Angel fed Lila,
then called the kids to dinner. Angel ate with Lila in her arms. “Who’s saying
Grace,” Angel asked. Chase’s oldest raised her hand and said Grace. “Dig in
then,” Angel said as the kids inhaled the stir fry. Lily ate her dinner, then tried
to jump out of her chair. “Almost,” Angel said as she finished off her dinner.
They finished and talked a bit, then the kids helped her with the dishes. “Okay.
Special treat tonight. I rented Ratatouille,” Angel said. “Awesome,” all the kids
said. Lila sat with Angel, and Lily sat with Chase’s oldest. “I’m going to give the
little ladies a bath. You guys enjoy. I’ll make some popcorn when I get back
downstairs,” Angel said. She took Lila and Lily upstairs and drew them a
bubble bath. They both played and splashed around, then Angel got them
changed and tucked them into bed. “Night Auntie,” Lily said. “Good night
sweetheart,” Angel said tucking her into the extra crib. She tucked Lila in.
“Good night sweetheart,” Angel said. “Muah,” Lila said. Angel kissed her good
night, then kissed Lila goodnight. Sweet dreams, Angel said turning off the light
and closing the door. She grabbed the monitor and headed downstairs. “So
what do you think,” Angel said. “Cool movie,” the younger two said. “Auntie,
can I talk to you,” his eldest said. Angel went into the kitchen and put on the
popcorn.
“What’s wrong,” Angel asked. “Is Mom mad at Daddy,” she asked. “Not that I
know of. Why,” Angel asked. “They aren’t giggly and smiling like they used to.
I don’t think Crystal likes Daddy anymore,” she said. “Of course she does. She
loves him and she loves all of you too,” Angel said. “But why are her and Daddy
going away again? Are they in a fight,” she asked. “No. They are having a little
overnight vacation. Just the two of them. They wanted some Mom and Dad
time,” Angel said. “You sure,” she said. “Definitely,” Angel replied. “Why are

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you so worried?” “Because that’s how my Mom was with Daddy before she
left,” she said. “It will be okay. I promise. If you ever need someone to talk to,
just ask okay,” Angel said. She nodded and hugged Angel. “Okay. Can you
help me with the popcorn,” Angel asked. She nodded and carried the popcorn
into the other kids. They each had some juice, then curled up together and
watched the rest of the movie. By the end, the younger two were out cold in
their sleeping bags, and the older two were nodding off on the sofas. Angel
made sure they were all warm enough, then turned the TV and lights off and
headed to bed. The minute she reached the top step, she heard Lila. Angel
snuck in and gave her the cold soother. Lila fell back asleep. Angel changed for
bed and climbed under the covers.
The next morning, she woke up, got Lila and Lily changed and cleaned up, then
headed downstairs. She fed them breakfast, then made breakfast for the kids.
“Thanks Auntie Angel,” they said. “No problem,” she replied. They finished
breakfast then cleaned up and the kids got changed, and headed back off to play
with their friends. Lily and Lila played in the playroom, and Angel packed the
kids bag back up. Crystal came by around lunch time to pick Lily up. “So how
was the mini vacation,” Angel asked. “Oh my god. That spa is amazing,”
Crystal said. “Figured you would love it,” Angel said. “Thank you so much for
taking care of the gang. I hope they weren’t any trouble,” Crystal said. “Not a
bit. We watched a movie last night, and talked then they were all out cold,”
Angel said. “It was a great idea. Last night was perfect,” Crystal said. “I’m
glad. I hope it helped,” Angel said. “It did a little. I owe you one,” Crystal said.
“I’m going to get her home for lunch. Thanks again.” Angel closed the door as
Lila crawled over to her. “Lala,” Lila said. “Lily went home,” Angel said. She
started to cry. “We can see her again. It’s okay,” Angel said. Her phone rang.
“Hello,” Angel said. “I think they are best friends now. Lily is screaming for
Lila,” Chase said. “She has to have lunch then I could bring her over,” Angel
said. “I’ll come get her,” Chase said. She knew what he was trying to do.
“Okay, but you have to keep her for the afternoon,” Angel said. “No problem,”
Chase said.
She fed Lila her lunch and got her changed, then Chase showed up. “So it went
well did it,” Angel said. She headed upstairs and put Lila down for a quick nap.
He took Angel’s hand leading her to the bedroom. “What,” Angel said. He
kissed her hard, and more passionately than he ever had. “Okay,” Angel said.
“It went fine, I just wish you had been there with me,” Chase said. “Did you two
talk,” Angel asked. “We did. It’s a little better, but I still don’t think it’s going to
work. We tried. We spent the entire day talking. We had a romantic dinner,
and danced together. When we got back to the hotel, we had sex, but it just
wasn’t the same. I told you. She doesn’t want me anymore. She’s happy with
whoever she found,” Chase said. “So you two are just going to continue on

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cheating on each other? That makes no sense,” Angel said. “Besides. Your
daughter knows something is up. You two are lousy actors.” “What do you
mean,” Chase said. Angel told him about her discussion with his eldest.
“Maybe it would be best to just call a spade a spade,” Chase said. “And how bad
would that look when you are across the street with me,” Angel asked. “I talked
to her. She told me that she was with someone else. That she thought we were
done. I told her how I didn’t want the kids to know. That we had to make the
effort for them. She agreed,” Chase said. “So you’re just going to keep doing
what you are doing?” “Yes,” he replied.
He kissed Angel, picking her up and wrapping her legs around him as he pinned
her to the bed. “Chase, you know you are crazy right,” Angel said. “We agreed
that this was best for a while,” he said. “What happens if your wish comes true,”
Angel said. “Oh you mean that wish,” he said. “Then the kids are going to have
to know,” Chase said. “So they can hate me for breaking you two up right,”
Angel said. She pushed Chase away. “She said if we don’t work, she’s moving
back towards her parents,” Chase said. “So you would still be across the street
Chase. Like they wouldn’t figure it out,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “Stop
clouding this,” Angel said pushing him away. “You want to be with him don’t
you,” Chase said. “I don’t know. I don’t know if I want anyone right now,”
Angel said. He wrapped his arms around her. “Don’t. Don’t do this,” Chase
said. “I realized this last night when your eldest confided in me. All I see is
them being mad and blaming me for you two breaking up,” Angel said. “Stop. I
told them that we had been good friends for years. She asked me herself if I
loved you. I said that I always have. I said it was different than how I loved her
mom and Crystal. She asked me something that made me think. If something
ever happened and Crystal left, would I marry you. I told her I didn’t know.
She said she liked you. She thinks Crystal is mad, and that she isn’t happy.
She’s seen it when her mom left. I didn’t want her to, but she did. She said she
wants me to be happy and I am always happy when you are around,” Chase
said. “I don’t know Chase. I really don’t,” Angel said.
She went downstairs and made some tea. “It’s been 24 hours. You really made
up your mind that fast,” Chase asked. “I just don’t want to get this all screwed
up,” Angel said. She made her and Chase some tea, then sat down in the
playroom. “I love you. I realized it last night when we were trying to be
romantic. It comes easy for me when I’m with you. It’s too difficult with her.
Please,” Chase said. He took the tea mug from her hands and put it down. He
kissed her and wrapped his arms around her. “How can you walk away from
us,” Chase said. He slid his hands under her sweater and pulled her close to
him, wrapping her legs around his. “Chase, it’s only going to make things
harder,” Angel said. “So we move. She stays here. What,” Chase said. “I can’t
be the reason why you to break it off,” Angel said. He kissed her again, sliding

289. 2
her sweater off. “Trust me. You won’t be. Her boyfriend will,” Chase said.
“Why is that,” Angel said. “I figured out who it was. It’s Grant. One of my
damn best friends,” Chase said. “He’s been screwing her for months. She wasn’t
subtle enough. I figured it out. Why do you think I stopped working at the
damn bar? I can’t even look at him knowing what I know.” “So what. You
thought two wrongs will make it better,” Angel said. “No. I decided that I
needed to find my own happiness. She doesn’t make me happy anymore. It’s
obvious,” he said. “So what did she say when you told her,” Angel said. “She
said she knows how much I care about you. That she wanted me to be happy.
That if things didn’t work out, she wouldn’t be surprised if I wanted to be with
you,” Chase said. “She said she had hoped we could get past this, but she knew
we couldn’t. We are more like room mates than husband and wife. The passion
is still there, it’s just that the spark is gone.” “Don’t say it unless you mean it
Chase. Don’t,” Angel said as he held her closer to him. “I want you to stay with
me. To be with me for good,” Chase said. “You mean you would leave her if I
said yes,” Angel said. “Yes,” Chase replied.
Angel was silent. She didn’t know how to reply to that. “Can you watch Lila for
a few minutes,” Angel said. “Why,” he asked. “I forgot something at the store,”
Angel said. She headed out and grabbed a pregnancy test. She took it crossing
her fingers. Two minutes left. One minute. She turned it over. Negative. She
went to the clinic and got them to do a blood test. “We’ll call you tomorrow and
let you know,” they said. Angel headed home and stopped at the park. “Not
until tomorrow,” Angel said to herself. She went home. Chase left her a note.
Lila woke up. Changed her. She’s at my place with Lily. Where
did you go? Call me
Angel sat down and went through emails. There was another one from Mark.
Angel,
I know you said not to bug you. I’m not. I wanted to let you know
that the doctor called. He said you and Lila were due for a visit.
I told him that you were up there and he said that Lila needs her
11 month shot. I hope you are good. Miss you. Just swamped
with work, which helps I guess. Busy as all hell. Wish you were
here with me. The place seems so cold without you. Love you.
Don’t ever forget how much. – Mark

290. 2
Angel’s eyes welled up. She went upstairs and drew herself a hot bath. She
leaned back and relaxed for a half hour or so. When she opened her eyes, Chase
was in front of her. “Was wondering where you disappeared to,” he said. “Just
wanted some quiet time Chase. Went to the park for a walk,” Angel said. He
kissed her. “Why did you really go,” he asked. “Chase. I’m not making damn
excuses. I’m saying that I needed some alone time. Thank you for taking care of
her,” Angel said. “Crystal’s getting her dinner,” he said. “Thanks,” Angel said.
She leaned her head back. “You mad at me,” he asked. “I just don’t think that
you should base your future with you and Crystal on what is going to happen
with Mark and I is all. It’s not fair,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “I’m
basing it on the fact that I love you. I always have. I can’t turn it off,” Chase
said. He pulled the plug of her bath and she stepped out. She pulled her robe on.
“I tried to fix things with her. I did. I just can’t,” Chase said. He kissed Angel
and leaned her against the wall. “Do you hear me,” he said. “I do. I just can’t
do this Chase. You should be with her,” Angel said. She pushed him away and
walked into the bedroom. She pulled her jeans and sweater on. “Where are you
going,” he said. He tried to stop her. “Chase, I can’t break you two up. I’m not
going to be the reason for your marriage falling apart,” Angel said. He stopped
her. “You aren’t. It was imploding all on its own. What is wrong with you,” he
said. “I just don’t want to be the one to blame. I don’t want you to walk away
from her and straight to me unless you are doing it with your whole heart Chase.
I’m not going to be the rebound,” Angel said. He kissed her. “You aren’t and
you never have been,” Chase said. He kissed her again and pulled her into his
arms. “I have been friends with you for so long that I know you better than you
know yourself. Something has to be setting you off,” Chase said still holding her
in his arms. “It’s nothing,” Angel said. “Spill it or you aren’t leaving this room,”
Chase said. “Nothing,” Angel said. The phone rang. She checked the caller id.
It was the doctor. She answered.
“Hello is this Angel,” the receptionist said. “Yes. It is,” Angel said. “Your test
results are back. She rushed them for you. It’s negative,” she said. “Thank
you,” Angel said hanging up.
“What was that all about,” Chase asked. “Nothing. I just can’t do this Chase. I
can’t,” Angel said. She went to get up and he pulled her back to him. “Who was
that on the phone,” Chase asked. “Nobody. I was just waiting to hear back from
someone. I got the info I needed. Done,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “You
aren’t running away from me Angel Scott,” Chase said. He pulled her tight to
him and kissed her as if it were the last kiss they would ever share. When he let
her up for air, she stopped fighting him. “You aren’t going back there now. You
have 6 weeks. We are going to make the most of them if it kills me,” Chase said.
“One deal,” Angel said. “What,” he said. “We use something until the decision
is made. No more of the without thing,” Angel said. “Until we’re both single

291. 2
right,” Chase said. “Yes,” Angel replied. “Fine. Whatever you want,” he said.
He unzipped her sweater. “You don’t need this right now,” Chase said sliding it
off her. He slid himself and Angel out of their jeans then curled up with her in
bed. “You know you are hard to read today. Why won’t you tell me what’s
going on,” Chase said. “It doesn’t matter now anyway. It’s done,” Angel said.
“This whole protection thing is kind of silly isn’t it. You could be pregnant
already anyway,” Chase said. “Nope,” Angel said. “You got a test done didn’t
you,” he said as he pulled her legs around him. “Chase,” Angel said. “You got a
pregnancy test done to make sure you weren’t,” Chase said. “If it happens that I
go back with Mark, how bad would that look? How bad would it look that I was
pregnant with someone else’s kid,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. “I know what
you are saying, but still,” he said kissing her again. They made love, then he
headed back to the house to check on Lila and Lily.
Chase came back a while later with Lila, fast asleep in his arms, and tucked her
into her crib. She’d had dinner, then Lily tired her out. She would sleep well
that night. Chase looked around for Angel. She was curled up by the fireplace
with her wine, and her laptop. “Getting some work done,” Chase asked. Angel
looked up. “Yes. Had a million projects to finish. Just putting the last touches
on the last one,” Angel said. She clicked her mouse and was finished.
“Miss Lila is up in bed. She was worn out,” Chase said sitting down on the sofa.
“Thanks again for looking after her this afternoon. Finally got these documents
done,” Angel said. “Had time to think too didn’t you,” Chase said. “Yep, and I
am still on the fence,” Angel said. “Anything I can do to convince you to switch
to this side,” Chase asked. Angel got up, and sipped her wine. “Nope,” she said
as she walked into the kitchen and plugged her laptop in. “You sure about that,”
he said coming up behind her and pulling her close to him. “Not that I can think
of,” Angel said finishing her glass of wine. He took the glass from her hand and
placed it on the counter. There was a knock at the door. He turned. Angel went
and answered it. “Angel Scott,” the man said. “Yes,” Angel replied. “For you,”
he said handing her a long package. “Thank you,” Angel said handing him a tip.
She brought the box into the kitchen and locked the door behind her. She
opened it – a dozen sterling roses mixed with white Lady Di roses. Angel
smiled, then put them all into a vase. “Card,” Chase asked. Angel opened it.
“Love you with all my heart – C” Angel said. “Now who would C be,” Angel
teased as Chase kissed her. “Pulling out all the stops are you,” Angel said. He
kissed her again and leaned her against the counter. “Why Chase. Are you
trying to seduce me,” Angel teased. “Understatement,” he replied. “You know
who you really should be trying to seduce,” Angel said. “Yes and I am,” Chase
said. “I talked to her while the girls were asleep. We agreed it was best to take a
break for a while. She wanted to tell the kids. She’s probably telling them now.”
“Are you trying to tell me that you told her that you wanted a divorce,” Angel
said. “I told her that neither one of us were happy the way things were. That

292. 2
she wanted to see where her thing with Grant was going and I didn’t want to
hold her back. That’s all I said to her,” Chase said. “You didn’t say anything
about us then,” Angel said. “No,” he replied.

293. 2
Chapter 33
Mark sat at home for days. He worked on as many things as he could do distract
himself. The first week was torture. By the second, he was hoping every night
for just one call from Angel. Just one note to let him know she was thinking of
him and he had a chance. He went to bed every night thinking of what Chase
must be pulling to get her attention. He pictured them together. Lila calling him
Daddy. It made his blood boil. She’d called on new years eve to say happy new
year, but he wanted to be with her. To be curled up together under the blankets.
Finally, on Thursday of the second week, he got that call. “Angel,” he said
picking up the phone. “Hi,” she replied. “I was so hoping it would be you. Tell
me you changed your mind about the 6 weeks and you are coming home,” Mark
said. “Making it 4,” Angel said. “Miss me don’t you,” he asked. “A little,”
Angel said. “Lila okay,” he asked. “Definitely. And she made friends with
Lily,” Angel said. The one thing he didn’t want to hear. “I just wanted to let you
know that I may be unavailable for a week or so. Going to a friend’s cottage. No
cell service up there,” Angel said. “There must be a phone,” Mark said. “I’ll call
you from the marina,” Angel said. “I miss you. I miss Lila. God. I have waited
to hear your voice. How are you doing,” he asked. “Getting there. Just taking
quiet time to myself,” Angel said. “I was right about Chase wasn’t I,” Mark said
starting to feel depressed. “You know this isn’t about Chase. It’s just about us
Mark. You and me. It doesn’t matter what he’s doing,” Angel said. “I really
miss you. So does Goldie,” Mark said. “I’ll see you in a few weeks,” Angel said.
“I love you. No matter what happens, don’t ever think I don’t love you,” Mark
said. Angel hung up.
Mark leaned back in his chair. “At least I got to tell her,” he said to himself. He
took Goldie for a walk then came home. He headed inside and got back to work.
An email came up.
I love you too
He closed it and smiled.
***
Angel got packed up for the cottage. She had everything she’d be needing. Lila
was packed along with the crib and her toys. Angel loaded everything into the
car, then locked up and headed off with Lila.

294. 2
They pulled into the marina and headed for the cottage. When she got there, the
lights were off, but there were candles. Angel took Lila in and tucked her into
bed. “Everything’s up from the boat,” Chase said. He kissed her. “I knew you’d
come.” “It’s your birthday Chase. I told you I would,” Angel said. “And I know
just what I want for my birthday,” Chase said. She’d held off from being with
him. She had to for her own sanity. Chase pulled her into his arms. “Chase,”
Angel said. He kissed her hard, pulling her coat and sweater off. He leaned her
into the sofa, as they fell backwards onto it. “Would you get your mind out of
your pants,” Angel said. “Oh it isn’t in mine. It’s in yours,” Chase said undoing
her jeans and slipping them off. He noticed the pink lace. “Happy birthday to
me,” he said pulling her legs around his waist. His body leaned against hers.
There was no more baby weight and what was left behind was now toned and
sculpted muscle. “You really think you are getting some tonight don’t you,”
Angel asked. He kissed her as their tongues intertwined and his body heat
warmed her to the core. His kisses moved down her body. Every kiss gave her
tingles. He licked her, feeling how hot she was. How wet. He teased and
taunted her until she could barely stand it then kissed her. He moved closer, and
she tried to back away. He held her head in his hands and kissed her. “Chase,”
Angel said knowing what he was trying. He put on protection and made love to
her on the sofa.
She’d tried to hold back from him, and that one night her weaknesses triumphed.
She’d thought she had made up her mind about what to do. Crystal had stayed
at the house, and Chase moved in to Angel’s house. She’d tried to treat him like
a roommate to no avail. Every chance he had he tried to seduce her. She’d been
able to resist him, but here, everything was different. “Holy shit,” he said as they
finished and tried to catch their breath. “So totally worth the wait,” Chase said.
Angel was quiet. “What,” Chase said. “Should have known that’s why you
talked me into this,” Angel said. “Well, that and I wanted you to see it before
you went back to beaches and ocean,” Chase said. “It’s not like I will never be
back here Chase,” Angel said. “So you made up your mind? You really want to
go back there? He hasn’t changed at all. Not one little bit from day one,” Chase
said. “He has Chase. I just don’t know if I can trust that he won’t pull this again.
That’s all I need to figure out. If I can’t, then I go back and get the rest of my
things. If I can, then I go back and we try another go at it. I am not depriving
him of seeing his daughter,” Angel said. “Instead, you are depriving yourself
and me of happiness. Of the one thing that makes both of us happy. Why,”
Chase said. “Because I have to do this with a clear head okay. I love him Chase.
I wouldn’t have married him if I didn’t,” Angel said. “Even after this,” he said.
“Yes,” Angel said. She got up and went into the bedroom and slipped on her
pajamas and slippers. “How could you? He’s cheated on you how many times?
You’re really going to give him another chance,” Chase asked. “I already told
you. I don’t know. I can’t decide right now and what just happens doesn’t make

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it easier. It’s not a matter of you or him. It’s him or being single again Chase,”
Angel said. “You can’t mean that,” he said. “I do. Technically I would be,”
Angel said. She grabbed her computer and went into the bedroom. She started
it and started trying to figure out the best decision. She made a chart of pros and
cons. “What are you doing,” Chase said. He turned the computer screen to face
him. “Then I am helping you. No way am I losing,” Chase said. “No Chase. I
am doing this alone,” Angel said. “Even if I have to work on this in the bedroom
with Lila,” Angel said. Chase hopped into a hot shower.
By the time he came out, Angel was out cold. Her laptop was still open. Chase
read the list. He snuck her laptop into the TV room and read the pros and cons
for both of them. She had good points for both. “It’s no wonder she’s so torn,”
Chase said. He took her laptop back into the bedroom and curled up in bed with
her. “Good reading,” Angel asked as he pulled her against him. He wrapped his
arms around her. “I get it okay,” Chase said. “Doesn’t mean I don’t want to
hold you,” Chase said. “Good teddy bear,” Angel joked. He kissed her neck.
“Night Chase,” Angel said. His arms held her tight all night. He had nightmares
of losing her to Mark. Of losing her and not having her in his life at all.
The next morning, Angel woke up and got Lila changed, cleaned and dressed.
She gave her some breakfast, then sat on the floor and played with her. When
Chase woke up, the smell of coffee was wafting down the hall. “You know just
how to wake me up don’t you,” Chase said. “Always,” Angel replied. “And
how did Lila sleep,” Chase said from the kitchen making himself a coffee. “Slept
in until 7,” Angel said. Chase came and sat down with them. He flipped on the
TV. Lila tried to walk over to him. “Chase. Oh my god. Chase look,” Angel
said. He looked over the edge of the sofa. Lila was walking towards him –
slowly and one step at a time. Her hands reached the sofa edge. “Cay,” Lila
said. Angel was snapping pictures. “You are such a smarty pants aren’t you,”
Chase said hugging Lila as she giggled. “I La You Ch….Chase,” Lila said. “Now
I know you taught her that one. “Had to,” Angel teased. “Bob,” Lila said trying
to grab the remote. “Bob’s not on,” Chase said. “Bad Chase,” Lila said. “Dora,”
Chase said. Lila put her head on his shoulder and curled up with him. Angel
took a shot or two. She grabbed herself a coffee, then handed Chase some
breakfast for Lila. “Since when does she,” Chase asked noticing the apples. He
handed a piece to Lila. “Mmm,” she said. Chase smiled. “Just like your Mom,”
Chase said. Angel threw a towel at him. He laughed. Angel checked her cell.
“Darn,” Angel said. “What,” Chase said. “Stupid phone,” Angel replied.
“Webcam,” he said. Angel loaded the pictures and emailed them to Mark.
Hey. Just wanted to show you the news. She walked 4 steps all
by herself. Going to try to get it on webcam and send it to you.

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She also ate apples today, which somehow she decided she loved.
Finally. No more baby food. She said Chase’s name for the first
time. She’s growing like a weed. Love you.
Angel
Angel spent the rest of the day curled up with Chase and Lila relaxing and
playing.
After a week of the cottage, they were all ready to head home. Angel had made
her decision. Chase had decided to give it another go with Crystal as per a long
conversation he had with Angel. “It doesn’t mean that I don’t care about you
Chase. It means that you married her because you love her. Running away from
it won’t fix what needs to be fixed,” she had said. Chase called Crystal from the
marina phone and filled her in. “So what do you think,” Chase said. “I guess we
should. We have to be 100% in. No excuses. If we can’t, then at least we can’t
say we didn’t try,” Crystal said. “Exactly,” Chase said. Angel felt right about
her decision. It didn’t mean that she didn’t have reservations about what was
going to happen, but she was okay with it. They headed back to the house and
Angel started packing to go home. She had started the laundry when her phone
rang.
“Angel, this is Derrick. You are one tricky woman to get a hold of,” he said.
“Hey Derrick. How are you,” Angel asked. “Not bad. Just calling to give you
an update on that task you asked me to help with. You aren’t going to be happy.
I’m in town. My partner is keeping an eye on him. Can I come by the house,” he
asked. “Sure,” Angel replied. She had a feeling in the pit of her stomach. She
got herself a glass of ice water and waited.
The doorbell rang and Angel answered it, inviting Derrick inside. “So here are
the shots. There are 3 women who kept coming by, then one that wasn’t
familiar,” he said handing her the photos. There were shots of Raven and Alicia
and Aubrey coming by. The last one wasn’t familiar. “I ran her against the
California DMV. Lacey,” Derrick said. She seemed all professional and things,
but she left the next morning. Something to notify you of,” Derrick said.
“Thanks Derrick, but I know Lacey. She’s his sister-in-law,” Angel said. “Guess
that would make sense as his brother was there with him for the past few days,”
Derrick said. “No doubt he was trying to corrupt Mark again,” Angel teased.
“Mark wasn’t in sight with her. The only time I saw him have contact with her
was when they were talking on the patio,” Derrick said. “So nothing else,”
Angel asked. “He went to a bar called The Tree. Looked like an odd place. Had
it checked out,” Derrick said. “I already know about that. Did you see anything

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inside,” Angel asked. “He was talking to a few people, then disappeared for a
half hour, then headed home,” Derrick said. “Thanks for everything,” Angel
said. “I don’t know why you needed him tailed if you knew,” Derrick said.
“Just wanted to be 100% sure,” Angel said. “I get it. You need anything, I am
just a call away,” Derrick said giving her a hug. He headed out and Angel sat
down in the living room.
She took a deep breath and tried to make her final decision. It was either be
single and see Chase every morning, or go back to California and live this crazy
life. She made her decision.
The next morning, Angel got up and finished packing. Lila was playing in the
boxes with her toys. Chase came by. “So did you make the decision,” Chase
asked. “I think so,” Angel said. “And? Don’t keep me in suspense,” he said. “I
decided to give him another chance. He has 3 months to change my mind.
Anything happens, then I am moving back here permanently. I’ll find another
house. If it doesn’t work, it doesn’t. Still gives you time to figure you and
Crystal out,” Angel said. “We decided to try. We’re going to give it a few
months too. I have to come to California in June anyway. Resigning of
contracts,” Chase said. “Okay. June 15th. If things don’t go well, I will meet you
at the cove,” Angel said. “Deal,” Chase said. “When do you and my favorite
god-daughter leave,” Chase asked. “Tomorrow,” Angel said. Chase made a
quick call. “My eldest is coming to bring her over to the house. We’re going
out,” Chase said. “And where might we be going,” Angel asked. “Memory
Lane,” Chase replied.
***
Angel and Chase hopped into the truck. “Now just where might you be taking
me,” Angel asked. “Remember when we first met,” Chase asked. “Where we
were?” “That bar by the lake,” Angel said. Chase pulled onto the highway. “I
wonder what’s there now anyway,” Angel said. “Different bar. They aren’t
open today, so they let me sneak in,” Chase said. They pulled into the parking
lot and headed inside. He turned on some music. “Damn. The place hasn’t
changed at all has it,” Angel joked. He kissed her and pulled her into his arms.
He put on the music they danced to. “Even the same songs,” Angel said. “This
is where the duo started. We thought we were inseparable,” Chase said. “I
remember,” Angel laughed putting her head on his shoulder. “And that’s the
day that I told you that my wife and I were having troubles,” Chase said. “I
remember. I told you that I was free if you needed a friend,” Angel said. “And
we’ve been best friends ever since,” Chase said. “That we have,” Angel replied.
He kissed her. “So now what Chase?” “Onto the next place,” he replied.

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They pulled into the parking lot of a hotel up the street. Angel started to laugh.
“You know you are a crazy guy,” Angel teased. “Follow me,” Chase said. They
headed inside and up to room 435. Angel walked in. Chase wrapped his arms
around her. “So you remember anything about this,” he asked turning on his
mp3 player. “I cannot believe you remember this,” Angel said. “Hey. I was
loaded, but I remember it all,” Chase said. He kissed her neck. “The first time
we ever,” Angel said. “The first time I saw you naked,” Chase whispered in her
ear, nibbling her earlobe. “Guess we now know. A big bottle of champagne
with little glasses gets you loaded,” Angel said. “And lowers the inhibitions,”
Chase said unbuttoning her sweater. “That night was unbelievable you know.”
“Like it was that unforgettable for me. Thought I was the luckiest woman alive
that night,” Angel said. “So sit,” Chase said. “Oh no you don’t,” Angel said. He
turned her to face him and backed her up to the chair. The one thing she could
never manage to resist. He had pulled out all the stops. The same songs, the
same everything. He slid her jeans off. “You know this is so unfair,” Angel said
as he kissed her inner thigh. “Why is that? Because you are at my mercy,”
Chase said kissing her and sliding his hand up her leg. She could feel his hands
as his fingers grazed her then slid into her wetness. “Shit,” Angel said. Chase
slipped his shirt off, then his jeans. It was his tease. The one thing he’d perfected
over the years so women would come at his feet. The one and only difference
between Angel and all those other women – he couldn’t resist her either. He
pulled her against him. “One last time,” he said as he slid her g-string off. “You
going to say that all day,” Angel joked. He made love to her, then kissed her all
over. The feel of his lips and tongue on her hot skin made her want him more.
Their passion was intoxicating. They both came, and were out of breath. “Ready
for the next spot,” Chase asked. “Damn,” Angel said. Chase threw out the
condom wrapper, and they headed out.
“Don’t know how much more I can take,” Angel said. “Only 3 more stops,”
Chase said. “And just where to now,” Angel asked. He pulled into a parking lot
that Angel had known well at one time. “God no,” Angel said. “It’s not open
until 6. It’s only 4. They opened it up for me,” Chase said. He handed her a
little bag. “You are so barking up the wrong tree Chase. I haven’t done this in
years,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Just for me,” he said. He kissed her and
they headed inside. “I can’t believe you are getting me to do this,” Angel said.
“This is where I saw you again. Where I went into freaking shock that you were
here,” Chase said. “You mean where you asked for a dance and freaked me out,
then dragged me out,” Angel joked. “Darn right,” he said. “Music,” Angel
asked. It was taken care of. Angel changed, then came out and started her dance
for Chase. He was so turned on by it. She’d only got better at the tease.
Especially now that they’d been together this long. He motioned for her to come
to him. She motioned for him to come to her. “No you aren’t pulling that one.
Nobody’s here. I could so totally take advantage of it,” Chase said. She laid him

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down. “No touching Chase,” Angel teased. “Never said no licking,” he teased.
She continued her dance. He got her back for the teasing. She got up. “Damn. I
can’t believe I never get to do that again,” Chase said. They both slipped off the
stage. “Never get to do what,” Angel asked. He kissed her hard, pinning her
against the wall to the change room. “Let me get changed,” Angel said. “Two
last stops. Then you are mine for the night,” Chase said. “What do you…” he
silenced her with an intense and passionate kiss. “Okay,” Angel said. She got
changed and they headed to the next place.
They pulled into the driveway of Angel’s old apartment. “Remember this,”
Chase joked. “You mean casa de Angel,” she joked. “That place was pretty
cool,” Chase said. “And damn near christened every counter,” Angel joked. “If
only Crystal and Mark knew. Damn,” Chase said. “Remember that night you
stayed and the fire alarm was pulled? You ran outside in my robe,” Angel joked
laughing hard. “Not the best moment,” Chase joked. “The day I moved out was
the best day. What a day that was,” Angel said. “I remember. I didn’t want you
to go. I begged you not to go to the city,” Chase said. “I had to Chase. You had
just met Crystal,” Angel said. “And that’s when I knew my marriage really was
over,” Chase said. “I know. It’s the same as now Chase. I don’t want to be in
the way of you being happy,” Angel said. He kissed her.
The next and final stop was the park by the water. Angel knew it well. It was
the last place she visited every time she came to town. She would walk with
Chase and talk to him, curl up in the truck together. Make love in the truck. She
would miss this place the most. It had memories of her and her family, as well as
great memories with Chase. “This is the last place we were back then when you
told me you were moving to California. And here you are going back again,”
Chase said. Angel kissed him. “We both know I have to Chase. It’s the right
thing to do,” Angel said. “Then I get one last night right,” Chase asked. “Yes,”
Angel replied. He pulled out of the parking lot and headed back to the house.
They headed inside and Angel could smell the seafood in the oven. “You
didn’t,” Angel said. “Ordered it. They brought it over. Cat is working there
now. She dropped it off,” Chase said. The wine was chilling in the fridge. They
sat down to dinner and reminisced. They laughed and finished off a full bottle of
wine. They curled up by the fire and talked. “So June,” Chase said. “If I call you
earlier Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her and pulled her to him. “You know I
want you to be happy, I just wish it weren’t so damn far away. Did you have to
pick the other side of the damn country,” Chase asked. “Love you too Chase,”
Angel said. He pulled her sweater off, his shirt and her belt. They turned the
fireplace on. Chase grabbed the blanket off the sofa. “So you still want me to
look after the place for you,” Chase asked. “Definitely,” Angel said. “So treat it
like it’s my place right,” he said. Angel nodded. He undid his jeans and hers. “I

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can’t believe this is the last time we’re….” Angel shut him up with a kiss. They
made love 2 or 3 times that night.
She woke up and his arms were tight around her. “Chase,” Angel said. “No,”
he replied. “I have to go get Lila and get her fed. Our flight leaves at noon,”
Angel said. “It’s only 8,” Chase said. “No, it’s 9. I have to be there in an hour,”
Angel said. He quickly showered, then ran over to get Lila fed and dressed. The
kids came back over with him. “Thank you for looking after her you guys,”
Angel said. They all hugged and kissed her goodbye. “Remember, I am only a
call away. Anything you need to talk to someone about and I am here,” Angel
said. They ran home and Chase loaded up the truck. “The toys were fed-exed
yesterday. Should be there by tonight,” Chase said. “Thanks Chase,” Angel
said. They all hopped into the truck and headed to the airport after a quick
goodbye to Crystal.
Lila was asleep in the back seat. “Do I ever wish we had more time,” Chase said.
“Me too, but you know I have to do this Chase,” Angel said. “I know, but still,”
he replied holding her hand. They pulled into the airport. Chase parked the car
and helped Angel with Lila and the bags. They checked almost everything but
her purse, carry-on and the baby bag. “Angel,” Chase said. “Yes,” she replied.
“I love you,” he said. Angel looked in his eyes. They were welling up. “Chase,
you know you’ll see me again. Stop this,” Angel said. “No more babies until
after June okay,” he said. “Promise,” Angel replied. He kissed her hard. Lila
was fast asleep in the snuggler. “I’ll miss you too,” Angel said as they got to the
gate. “I’ll call you when we get in. Promise,” Angel said. He kissed her again.
“You better,” he said. He hugged and kissed Lila one last time, then Angel took
Lila through the gate. They waved goodbye to Chase and headed to their exit.

301. 2
Chapter 34
Angel and Lila got off the plane and walked into the warm breeze. It was almost
25 degrees Celsius by the time Angel got the bags. The door opened, and the
first face she saw was Mark. He grabbed the bags and kissed Angel. “God I
missed you,” he said. They headed for the car. Angel was quiet. More quiet
than he expected. They got everything in the car then headed back to the house.
A house she hadn’t seen, nor wanted to see, for over a month and a half. She
came in, and somehow it didn’t feel like home anymore. It was still beautiful.
Still a breathtaking view. Angel headed upstairs and tucked Lila into her bed.
She grabbed the monitor then came downstairs. Her room had fresh lilac in it.
No doubt a surprise from Mark. Angel came back downstairs and headed out to
the patio. Mark came out behind her and handed her a glass of her favorite
wine.
“You’re kind of quiet,” Mark said. “Just tired, and thinking,” Angel said. He sat
down beside her on the swing and wrapped his arm around her. She put her feet
up and laid her head on his shoulder. “I missed you baby,” Mark said. “Been a
long time,” Angel said. “Lila has grown so much,” Mark said. “She has. She is
talking up a storm,” Angel replied. “What’s on your mind,” Mark asked. “You
went to the bar,” Angel said. “Just met with a few friends for a drink and came
home. Ask Evan,” Mark said. “He went with you,” Angel said. “Him and
Lacey wanted to go, and I had a drink with them and some other friends, then I
came home,” Mark said. “How are they doing,” Angel asked. “She is a perfect
match for him,” Mark said. “They’re both into everything. They stay up all
night partying, drink. I felt like an old man next to them,” Mark said. “We just
party in other ways Mark. We are still party animals, just party animals with a
baby and responsibilities,” Angel said. “We definitely are aren’t we,” Mark said.
Angel sipped her wine. “I forgot how good it smells out here,” Angel said.
“Notice anything new,” he asked. “I smell lilac. I noticed it in Lila’s room,”
Angel said. “Look over there,” he said pointing to the tree in front of the gazebo.
“Lilac tree,” Angel said. “Your favorite. I had to. It smelled so good,” Mark
said. Angel smiled. Her love for lilac was because of the memories of her
grandmother’s back yard in the summer when the lilac was in bloom. If
anything it reminded her of Chase. She smiled. “Tomorrow is Friday right,”
Angel asked. “Yeah why,” Mark asked. “Friday chat,” Angel said. “Anything
you say,” he replied. She’d come home after a month, which was more than he
had hoped for. All he wanted was to make love to his wife, and hold her in his
arms. Now he had her home.
They headed inside and up to bed. It was almost ten. Angel was beyond
exhausted. She headed upstairs and into the bedroom. A few minutes later, as

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she was unpacking her things, she heard the water running. She went into the
bathroom, and Mark had drawn her a bubble bath with her favorite bubble bath.
“Thought you might like this, Mark said. “You looked like you needed it,” Mark
said. Angel kissed him. “Thank you baby,” Angel said. She undid the buttons
of her dress – slowly to tease Mark. It slid off her soft skin. She slid her g-string
off, bending over by the tub, then slid her bra off. He watched every movement.
He wanted to do something. To touch her, feel her soft skin against his. He
didn’t dare. He was so worried that he would do the wrong thing. “Thank
you,” Angel said as she kissed him again. She slid her arms around his neck,
pulling her body against his. She knew that would get a reaction. “Anything
else you want? A glass of wine maybe,” he asked. Angel undid the buttons of
his dress shirt. “Um hmm,” Angel said. She slid his shirt off then his dress
pants. She kissed him, then stepped into the tub. She motioned for him to join
her. He did as asked. He slid in behind her and wrapped his arms around her.
She slid back into his arms and put her head against his shoulder. “I missed
this,” Angel said. “What, the bubble baths in the big tub,” he asked. “Nope.
Bubble baths just you and me. Just you, me and the candles that is,” Angel said.
Mark was quiet. “Now you’re being quiet. What’s wrong,” Angel asked. “So
what does this mean? Does this mean that you and I are back together? That
you still love me, or you wanted one last night to tease me before you walk
away,” Mark asked. Angel kissed him. “This means I’m home,” Angel said as
she turned to face him. She leaned her wet, naked body against his. “You mean
what I think you mean,” he asked. “Meaning no separate beds. No having
breakfast alone. We are still using something, because we can’t handle another
baby right now, but yes. I’m home,” Angel said.
He pulled her hard into him and kissed her. “I win,” he said. “No. You are my
husband. I am your wife. There is no winning Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her
again. “Come to bed then,” Mark said. “Been a while,” Angel said. She couldn’t
tell him. It would kill him to know. He pulled the plug of the tub and carried
her in a towel to their bed. “I missed you so badly,” Mark said. She laid against
the bed, kissing her from head to toe. “Shit Mark,” Angel said. “God I missed
you. If you only knew how bad,” he said. Everything seemed so right. It’s like
she fell back into the old ways things were. He was the man she married again.
The loving, caring man. She couldn’t help but ask herself when the real Mark
would be back. She hoped never. She liked this version. The deal she’d made
with Chase still rang in her mind. He had gone so overboard before she left. She
forced herself to concentrate on what was happening with her and Mark. Chase
was a married man. Not hers. Mark kissed her and snapped her back to reality.
“I missed this. I missed you wanting me,” Mark said. “I missed the way you feel
in my arms.” “I missed this too,” Angel replied. They made love slowly,
tenderly and cherished every moment. They curled up together and went to
sleep.

303. 2
Angel’s mind wandered. She got up and went and sat outside. She had to clear
her head of the thoughts of Chase. He had left an impression on her. No matter
how hard she tried she couldn’t get passed it. She grabbed one of Mark’s
cigarettes and a glass of wine and sat out on her swing. She wrapped herself in a
blanket and tried to relax. She closed her eyes and all she could picture was
dancing with Chase. Him holding her in his arms as he kissed her. “He had to
have planned that,” Angel thought to herself. She finished her cigarette and
sipped her wine. She heard the sliding door open. She sipped her wine. Mark
walked out with Goldie. “What are you doing out here,” Mark asked. “Just
thinking,” Angel said. Goldie jumped onto the swing and Angel gave her
snuggles. “I woke up and you weren’t there,” Mark said. He sat down beside
her on the swing and she curled up in his lap. “Couldn’t sleep,” he asked.
“Guess my time clock’s a little thrown,” Angel said. “You sure it isn’t more than
that,” Mark asked. “Just takes a while for me to get back into the swing of things
here. Got so used to everything at home. Might take me a while,” Angel said.
He kissed her. “Why do I keep thinking something has really changed,” Mark
asked. “It has Mark,” Angel said. “What did you want to talk to me about? You
said we were going to talk tomorrow night. I know you have something on your
mind,” Mark said.
“You really sure you want to do this now,” Angel asked. “I was tossing and
turning. Almost as bad as you now. You say we need to talk and I imagine
worst case scenarios,” Mark said. “I was up there for a month without you.
Taking care of Lila day in and out. Chase helped every day. So did the kids. I
realized that jumping into having another baby isn’t a good idea. Not right now.
Secondly,” Angel said. “The first part wasn’t bad enough,” Mark said.
“Secondly, I made another decision when I was there. Going to see how things
go for the next little while. If something else major happens, then you have to
promise you will let go. I’m hoping nothing will, but you can see how I am
trying to protect Lila in this,” Angel said. “I know,” Mark said. “Thirdly, I want
to know how things changed. What you did to fix why this all happened in the
first place,” Angel said. “I went and talked to my therapist again. Needless to
say, she agreed that a month of no sex and nothing like that was best. Going to
the bar that night was just a mistake. A huge one,” Mark said.
He’d gone with his brother and his girlfriend intentionally to prevent himself
from doing anything stupid. He knew that moment wasn’t the time to blow all
the work he’d done for the past month. He had a drink with them, introduced
them, then tried to duck out. He bumped into an old girlfriend at the bar. He
ordered himself a drink while they chatted, then danced a while with her. “You
know Mark, I always meant to ask Angel if she’d be willing to share you
sometime. My husband has a little thing for her. He told me that if it was okay

304. 2
with you, and her that maybe we could get together sometime,” she said. “I
don’t really think this is her thing anymore,” Mark said. “So, would she let you
join my husband and I for some fun then,” she asked. She was tall with long
sleek legs. She slightly resembled the Barbie doll that all little girls played with
when they were younger. “I really don’t think,” Mark said. She kissed him. “I
really don’t think she’d go for it. Really,” Mark said. “Where is she anyway,”
the woman asked. “She’s up north with her family for a few weeks,” Mark said.
“She’d never know you know Mark,” she said. Mark headed for the door. “I’ll
call you. We can discuss it later,” she said. Mark headed outside, saying
goodbye to his brother and his girlfriend on the way out. He sat in the car and
took a deep breath. The next night, the woman had called. “So we have a
proposition for you. Come over. Threesome, just the three of us,” she said.
Mark was intrigued and it got his juices flowing, but he had such a guilty
conscience already. “Maybe we could just have a drink and discuss it,” Mark
said. “See you at 8 then,” she said.
Mark showed up that night, had dinner with them, then sat and chatted. Her
husband left the room momentarily. “Mark, tell me you agree to it,” she asked.
Her hand moved up his thigh. “I really don’t know,” he said. She kissed his
neck, then his ear. “I want to feel it in me Mark. I want both of you at the same
time. Please,” she said as her hand touched him. His zipper came undone and
she slid her hand into his jeans. “I promise that I’ll keep it quiet,” she said. Her
body moved down as she pulled it out and locked her lips around him. He
hadn’t felt something like that in a month. Any sexual contact, and he was
bound to react. “Say yes,” she asked. “As long as you promise,” he said. She
grabbed a condom from her bag and slid it on him via her mouth. “Shit,” Mark
said. She slid onto his lap, straddling him. She took him into her and had him at
her mercy. “I knew this would feel good. Damn,” she said peeling her dress off,
to reveal her perfect naked body. Her husband came back in. “Started without
me did you,” he said. She turned to face him, as she leaned into Mark’s lap. He
knew what she wanted. They all changed positions. Her husband sat down, she
straddled him, while they both fucked her. She took it over and over. Mark
couldn’t believe this was happening. When it was over, he cleaned up and
headed home. He dove directly into the water trying to get rid of the feeling that
somehow Angel would know.
“So why do I think that you are holding something back Mark? That you are
trying to hide something from me,” Angel asked. “Nothing happened. I
bumped into a few friends, had dinner with a couple one night, then you came
home to me,” Mark said. “Now I know you are hiding something Mark,” Angel
said. “Why,” Mark asked. “You never said anything about dinner with a couple
from the bar before. You going to tell me,” Angel asked. “Nothing. We had
dinner, they asked about you, I told them you were coming home, then I came

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home and went to bed,” Mark said. “You trying to tell me you actually held out
for an entire month,” Angel asked. “Yes,” he said. “Then why can’t you look me
in the eye,” Angel said. He looked into her eyes. “I couldn’t imagine being
intimate with anyone other than you. I just couldn’t,” he said closing his eyes.
“Who was it Mark,” Angel said. “Who was what,” he asked. “You didn’t have
sex sex, but you did something. Threesome with that couple,” Angel asked.
“No,” Mark said. “Who was it Mark,” Angel asked. “Would you stop? I didn’t.
They asked me to and I said no,” Mark said. “So you and probably the husband
at the same time eh,” Angel said. She could read him so well. “They asked. I
told them no and that you wouldn’t appreciate it,” Mark said. “Then you did
didn’t you,” Angel said. “You had the more unintimate part, but you did,”
Angel said. “Angel,” he said. Angel finished her glass of wine and went inside.
Goldie followed. “How the hell would she know unless,” Mark thought to
himself. “She wouldn’t have got a private investigator would she,” he thought.
Mark went inside and Angel was upstairs in the bathroom. She’d locked herself
in and was in the shower. He heard something else. Something that sounded
like a conversation. “Shit,” Mark said. “Angel,” he said knocking on the door.
“Go away Mark,” she said from the shower.
She let the hot water run against her skin as tears streamed down her face. She’d
made the wrong decision. She was going to lose Chase, Mark and her entire life.
It was over. She couldn’t condone what Mark had done, nor could she fault him.
She’d slept with Chase almost every night. “Was another part of my life. It’s
done,” Angel said to herself. She used the lavender shower gel and washed
herself from head to toe. She washed her hair, then stepped out of the shower
and into her pajamas. She came out of the bathroom and Mark was sitting
against the door. “What,” Angel said. “Please,” he said. She stepped over him
and went into the spare bedroom.
He walked in behind her. “Angel, you don’t understand,” Mark said. “I told
you nobody. Nothing. For one damn month you couldn’t not do it could you?
You know you are addicted. It’s wrong. So wrong that you really do need a 12-
step program,” Angel said. He wrapped his arms around her as she brushed out
her wet hair. “Please,” Mark said. “You really think I am sleeping in that bed
with you don’t you,” Angel said. He turned her to face him. “I never got to ask
my question. I already know the answer, but I want to see if you’ll admit it. If
you do, you’re just as bad as I am,” Mark said. “Did you and Chase sleep
together?” “We did….a few times. The difference is Mark, that I could have not
done it. I had no problem going without. I’ve done it before. I’ve done it a
million times before. We did, but when I told him about the one month thing, he
respected it. He slept beside me. We didn’t sleep together as in sex every night.
We slept beside each other and he wrapped his arms around me. Something you

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are probably incapable of,” Angel said. “You trying to tell me that you think I
can’t keep my hands off you? That I can’t just hold you,” Mark asked. “No
Mark. I’m saying that I restrained myself. How the hell do I trust you? How do
you expect me to trust you at all,” Angel said. She threw her towel on the bed
and went downstairs. She grabbed her empty suitcase. “No you aren’t,” he said
as he pulled the suitcase out of her hand. “No. You aren’t walking away from
me again. No more. No more torture, no more deals. We’ll go to counseling
together. No more running to Chase to fix it. Got it,” Mark said throwing the
suitcase onto the sofa. “Screw you,” Angel said. She went to walk past him and
he blocked the door. “Move,” Angel said. “No,” he replied. There was a silence.
His eyes were intense and hers were filled with fire. It was something that
attracted him to her in the first place. He kissed her hard, pinning her back
against the wall.
He slid her satin nightie up to her waist and pulled her legs around him. He
pinned her arms against the wall kissing her with such an intense kiss that
neither one of them cared about catching their breath. He undid his pajama
pants, dropping them to the floor and kicking them off. They had rough, intense
sex against the wall, then on the sofa, then against the kitchen counter. They
ended on the soft rug by the fireplace. Angel was still panting from the tryst. He
finally caught his breath. His heart and hers were both racing. Neither one of
them said a thing. His body weight was on top of her. He had no intention of
letting go. She was his wife. That’s all there was to it. No matter what, he
would fix what had happened. They both would. He went to kiss her and she
turned her head. He held her face in his hands and kissed her again. She tried to
squirm away. She got up and grabbed her pajamas and went upstairs. He
grabbed his pajama pants and went outside. He lit a cigarette. He turned when
he saw her pale lilac robe go past the sliding door. He finished his cigarette.
He went back inside, and Angel was on the sofa with her blanket and pillow.
“Come to bed,” he said. “No,” Angel said. “You’re not any better than me. You
almost stayed for him didn’t you? At least I wasn’t with someone every night
you were gone. You started to fall for him didn’t you,” he asked. “Go away
Mark,” Angel said. “You were going to stay with him if he weren’t with Crystal.
I know you. Better than you think,” he said. “And I knew you couldn’t keep it
in your damn pants that long. You had to fuck someone. Anyone. Surprised
you didn’t gang bang your brother’s girlfriend too Mark. Or did you,” Angel
said. He sat down on the sofa. “Get away from me,” Angel said. “I’m calling
tomorrow. We are going to a counselor. I am not losing you. That’s it,” Mark
said. “You may claim you love me, but you don’t Mark. You love that you can
get laid any damn day of the week. Just proves you can with or without me,”
Angel said. She got off the sofa, grabbed his cigarettes and went outside. She sat
down on the chaise and lit one. “Since when you smoking again,” Mark asked.

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He grabbed the cigarettes out of her hand and lit one for himself, sitting down
beside her. She went to get up and move, and he pulled her back. “Just sit with
me. Pretend you love me,” Mark said. “I did Mark. I did love you. You blew
it,” Angel said as tears streamed down her face. She turned away from him. He
wasn’t worthy of her tears. He tried to pull her to him. She wouldn’t budge. He
moved to her and wrapped his arm around her waist. “I’m sorry. Ever since I
left you up there, I kept seeing you and Chase. Him making his move. Him
tasting you. Teasing you. Him fucking you every night and making you come
over and over again. Him touching you the way I should be. Him making love
to you instead of me. Him waking up and being next to you and Lila calling him
Daddy,” Mark said. “Then you have problems. You started all of this. It was all
on you. You not being able to be faithful. You not being able to not fuck
someone else. Why can’t you see that what you did is that started this whole
damn thing in the first place Mark,” Angel said as she wiped her tears away. She
finished her cigarette. She got up and headed for the beach. She dropped her
robe and dove into the water. It was calm that night – warm almost. Mark
walked out, following her right into the water. He dove under the water and
came up with his arms around her. “I’m sorry for what I have done. I’m sorry,”
he said. He kissed her. “I’m sorry too,” Angel said. “I’m sorry I let Chase get to
me like that,” Angel said. “We really going to try to do this right,” Mark asked.
“I will if you will,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Let’s get out of this damn water
then,” he said. Angel swam in with him behind her. She grabbed her robe and
wrapped it around her then headed inside.
Mark turned on the fireplace. They curled up under a blanket. “Mark, I don’t
know if you understand how hard it was for me to make the decision to come
back. Really, I was on the verge of coming home to just get the rest of my things
and moving up there for good,” Angel said. “What made you change your
mind,” Mark asked. “The fact that we are both trying to do what’s right for Lila.
I love you. I do, I just can’t live a crazy life anymore.” “I don’t want us to be like
this anymore either. I can’t stand it when you aren’t here. I felt like I was going
crazy. I needed human contact. I craved it. Why do you think I invited my
brother here,” Mark said. “Chase was the only thing keeping me sane. He
always has been. There are feelings there, but I helped him and Crystal to try
getting things back to normal again. I couldn’t ruin them. The fact is, that I
couldn’t walk away from this. From you. From our Friday night talks, and the
walks on our beach. The only thing I really didn’t miss, which I know is so
weird, was the sunshine. A girl can only stand so much,” Angel joked. “Whew.
Thought you were going to say that you didn’t miss me. Or worse, that you
didn’t miss all the friends we have,” Mark said jokingly. “I did miss them a little,
but honestly, I loved that house. The view was perfect. My little cottage to write
in the backyard. It really was perfect,” Angel said. “Doesn’t mean we’ll never
go back,” Mark said. “It really was the perfect scenario. I love it here too, don’t

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get me wrong. But everything seemed so much more laid back there. Almost
relaxing,” Angel said.
“I am glad that you did come back to me,” Mark said. “I really was beginning to
worry you wouldn’t.” “So was I,” Angel said. He pulled her into his arms. He
kissed her tenderly, lovingly. She let her guard down for the first time since
she’d walked back in that door. “Welcome home baby,” Mark said.

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Chapter 35
Angel got up the next morning with an uneasy feeling. Mark had got up with
Lila and fed her while Angel slept in for the first time in days. When she got up,
she got dressed, and headed downstairs to Lila. She wasn’t there, and either was
Mark. Angel headed outside, and still no sign of either of them. Angel called
Mark’s cell phone. There was no answer. Angel grabbed herself an orange juice
and started to worry. She sent Mark a text message. No reply. She checked the
office. His computer was gone. She headed out the door and started walking to
her car when he pulled into the driveway. Lila was in her car seat. “Where did
you two disappear to Mark? I woke up and she was gone,” Angel said. “Took
her to the doctor for her shots,” he said. Angel headed back inside and straight
for the washroom. She’d felt sick since she’d got home. It was her body’s way of
telling her that something was happening.
Mark came upstairs to check on her as she splashed some cold water on her face.
“You okay,” he asked. Angel opened the door and headed downstairs to Lila.
“What’s going on,” Mark asked grabbing her arm. “Let go Mark,” Angel said as
she walked past him and brushed him off. “Mama. Woof,” Lila said. “Yes baby.
Goldie says woof,” Angel said. She made herself some oatmeal hoping to keep it
down. Angel put Lila into her playpen, then grabbed her laptop and set it up on
the living room table.
“Are you going to talk to me at all,” Mark asked. “You took her without me to
the doctor. Did you not think that it was important that I went,” Angel asked
taking a spoonful of oatmeal. “I wanted to let you sleep in,” Mark said. “Next
time, don’t bother,” Angel said. She finished her oatmeal, then logged onto the
computer. “What,” he asked slamming the laptop closed. “Don’t ever disappear
like that with her again. You leave me a damn note or at least turn your damn
cell phone on, or you aren’t taking her anywhere ever again,” Angel said. She
opened her laptop back up and went outside. “What the hell is wrong with you?
I’m her father Angel. You trying to say you don’t trust me alone with my own
daughter,” he asked. “You really want me answering that? The fact is that I
need to know where she is at all times Mark. That includes when you take off
with her. You can’t respect that, then don’t,” Angel said. She headed inside and
brought Lila outside. She put some sunscreen on Lila, then brought out her
playpen and her toys. “I understand you being worried, but this is insane Angel
– even for you,” Mark said. “What the hell is that supposed to mean? You get
me back here and say you want to win back my trust. Earth to Mark – it isn’t
working,” Angel said. “Everything was fine last night wasn’t it,” he said. “No
Mark. I said I would try. Fact is, you take off with Lila and don’t leave a note or
turn your phone on, anyone would worry. It’s called being a parent. You want

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to take her somewhere then you have to tell me, or at the least leave me a note,”
Angel said. “Fine,” he replied. He headed back inside and sat at his desk.
Angel tried to concentrate on work, but couldn’t. Fact is that she didn’t know if
she could trust Mark. She wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt, but after
everything they had gone through, she just couldn’t.
***
Chase sat at home that night, trying to figure out some way of getting things
back to the way they should be. His mind wandered back to his last night with
Angel. “Chase,” Crystal said. “What can I do you for,” Chase replied. “What
time you heading into work on Friday,” Crystal asked. “Not,” Chase replied.
“What do you mean not,” Crystal replied. “I mean that I am still the manager,
but not dancing anymore. Only have to go in for an hour or two on Saturday
and then I’ll be home before the kids go to bed,” Chase said. “Since when,”
Crystal asked. “Since I decided to try to fix things with you,” Chase said. “I
see,” Crystal said. “I sort of made plans with the girls Friday night,” she replied.
“That’s cool. I’ll stay with the kids.”
***
Angel laid out on the chaise after putting Lila down for her afternoon nap. Mark
came out to try to talk to her. “I didn’t mean to worry you. I thought getting the
appointment out of the way would be a help,” Mark said. “It was Mark, I just
was petrified that something happened. It’s a mom thing. I need to know if you
are taking her out so I don’t worry. Besides, there’s something I needed at the
doctor anyway,” Angel said remembering that she had to get her shot. Bad
enough she’d gone without since Christmas. She didn’t want to push her luck.
“Such as,” Mark asked. “Needed to check a few things out. Had a couple of
questions I needed to get answers to,” Angel said. “Why are you being so damn
secretive,” he said. He leaned over to Angel and kissed her neck. “It’s nothing,”
Angel said. She went to get up. “Angel,” Mark said. He grabbed her hand.
“I’m going to get changed for a walk,” Angel said. “Come sit with me for a
minute,” Mark asked. She sat back down. “What,” Angel asked. “Why do you
keep walking away from me,” Mark asked. “What do you want from me Mark,”
Angel asked. He kissed her. “I want my wife back,” he said pulling her into his
arms. “Would you stop,” Angel said as she tried to push him away. He pulled
her closer and devoured her lips with his. “I want you,” he said as Angel tried to
come up for air. “I want you here and now.” Angel tried to free herself from his
grip, but couldn’t. “Mark,” Angel said trying to pull away. “Don’t say no,” he
said kissing her again. Angel got away and went inside. She went to go up the
stairs, and Mark pinned her against the wall in the stairwell. He kissed her

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strongly, passionately. “Stop,” Angel said. “I want my wife. I want you,” Mark
said kissing her again and picking her up, carrying her to their bed. “Put me
down,” Angel said. He kissed her again and laid her onto the bed.
“Tell me you want me,” he said. “Mark,” Angel said. He pinned her arms to the
bed. “I know you do,” he said as he slid her bikini top off. He kissed her, still
holding her hands with one hand, and slid his hand around her waist. “Just
because she is napping doesn’t mean…” Mark cut her off with another kiss. He
slid her shorts off. “Mark. Enough already,” Angel said. “No. Not enough.
Ever since you got home, you barely want me next to you let alone making love
to you. What do I have to do Angel? Beg?” “It’s going to take a while until I can
trust you again okay? You can’t just fuck me then expect it will all be fixed,”
Angel said trying to get up. He kissed her again. “Who says it won’t help,”
Mark asked. “Me,” Angel replied pushing him off of her. “You trying to
intentionally hurt me,” he asked. “You hurt me didn’t you? Guess this is the
only way to get through to you Mark,” Angel said grabbing her track jacket. He
pulled it out of her hand. He pushed her into the wall and kissed her again.
“Stop it,” Angel said. He slid her bikini bottoms off and to the floor and grabbed
her leg, wrapping it around him. “Don’t even think you are getting some
without protection Mark,” Angel said. He pulled out a condom and slipped it
on. He had sex with her against the wall. He tried to carry her back to bed, but
she demanded for him to let go of her. She got changed and took off for her run.
She grabbed her cell phone, then headed out the door, ipod in hand.
She jogged down to the cove, then sat down. She tried to stop herself, but
couldn’t. She dialed. The phone started to ring….
***
Chase heard his blackberry ringing from the kitchen. Some of the kids had gone
to bed, and the eldest two were enthralled in a movie. Crystal was out. Chase
ran to grab the phone. “Angel,” he asked answering it. “Hey Chase,” Angel
asked. “Why do you sound so miserable,” he asked. “Gee. Like you have to
ask,” Angel said. “What,” he asked. “He took off with Lila without even leaving
a note. Didn’t answer his cell or anything. Took her to the damn doctor without
me,” Angel said. “Worried you didn’t he,” Chase asked. “Understatement. For
some odd reason, I am having a slight difficulty even leaving him alone with her.
Maybe I made the wrong decision Chase,” Angel said. “I miss you too,” he
whispered. “Did I make the wrong decision coming back,” Angel asked. “Don’t
ask me that Angel. You don’t want to know the answer,” Chase said. “So you
think I did too,” Angel said. “The kids are still up. Give me two hours. I’ll call
you back, then we can really chat,” Chase said. “Okay,” Angel said. “I so wish I

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were there,” Chase whispered. “You and me both,” Angel said. They hung up
and Mark finished the dishes, then got the kids ready for bed.
***
Angel walked back onto the patio and Mark was outside with Lila. “What
would you think about the three of us going out for dinner tonight,” Mark asked.
Angel walked past him. “Did you put sunscreen on her,” Angel asked. “Yes.
Now what do you think about going out to dinner,” Mark asked. “Mama. Up,”
Lila said. Angel picked her up and brought her inside. “Now you aren’t talking
to me,” he said. “It’s almost 5. Lila needs to eat now,” Angel said. “Then dinner
just me and you. I’ll go pick something up and we can have dinner on the
patio,” Mark suggested. “Whatever Mark. I am expecting a conference call in an
hour or two,” Angel said. “Fine. I’ll grab something and be back in a few,” he
said. Angel put Lila into her high chair and strapped her in. Mark wrapped his
arms around Angel’s waist and pulled her against him. “I’m sorry. I don’t know
what else to do or say. I’m sorry,” Mark said. Angel turned to face him. “Fine,”
Angel said. His finger lifted her chin to look into his eyes. “I’m sorry I worried
you. I love you,” he said. “Love you too,” Angel said. He kissed her. Lila
grabbed Angel’s jacket. “Mama,” she said. Mark kissed Angel again and then
headed out the door to get dinner. “So what shall we get you for dinner,” Angel
asked. She put together a few items, then fed Lila. “Cay mama,” Lila said. “I
know baby. I miss Chase too,” Angel said. She got Lila cleaned up, then took
her upstairs for a bath. She bathed her, then changed her and slipped her into
her pajamas and brought her downstairs. She curled up with her on the sofa and
read her a story. By the time Mark got back, Angel was heading upstairs to tuck
Lila into bed. Mark came with her and they kissed her goodnight, tucking her in.
They came downstairs, and Mark had brought home one of Angel’s favorites.
“Figured you might have missed this,” he said. They had dinner, and the
moment she was about to get up and do the dishes, her phone rang.
“Conference call,” Mark said. “Yep,” Angel said grabbing the phone before
Mark saw the caller ID. Angel headed into the office.
“I miss you so much,” Chase said. “I did didn’t I,” Angel said closing the door.
“You know we aren’t going to last 5 months,” Chase said. “I know. I’m
beginning to regret it already,” Angel said. “I wanted to tell you not to go. I did.
I just didn’t think it’s what you wanted to hear,” Chase said. “I guess it wasn’t. I
just have this thing with trusting him,” Angel said quietly. “I know. He
probably doesn’t get it either. I can’t imagine him making love to you. God. I
wish it were me,” Chase said. “And things on your side of the country,” Angel
asked. “She’s out. Going out again Friday night. I know she’s seeing him. She
has to be,” Chase said. “We have to make an effort,” Angel said. “I know, but I

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wish it weren’t so damn hard,” Chase said. “It shouldn’t be,” Angel said. “It’s
like between you and I everything seemed so simple,” Chase said. “Exactly,”
Angel replied. “I have to figure out some reason to get out there,” Chase said.
“Soon I hope,” Angel said. She heard Mark walking towards the office. “So
when did you need that report done,” Angel said. “He’s at the damn door? He
probably doesn’t believe you are on a damn call,” Chase said. “I’ll see if I can get
that to you. May be a little tricky since tomorrow is Friday,” Angel said. “That’s
it. Sunday night, I’ll tell her I have to go to a meeting in Arizona. I’ll fly to
Arizona then take the flight there. Don’t tell him,” Chase said. “No problem,”
Angel said. “I’ll let you go. Just know that I miss you okay,” Chase said.
“Definitely,” Angel said. They hung up and Mark came in and handed Angel a
cup of tea. “Call finished,” Mark asked. “Yep,” Angel replied.
They headed into the living room and sat down. “Call go well,” Mark asked.
“Now I have a damn massive report to do, but yeah,” Angel said. Mark kissed
her. “Thank you for dinner,” Angel said. “What can I do to get back in the good
books Angel,” Mark asked. “Just give me time to get past this okay? I came
home. That’s what you wanted. The fact is Mark, that every time we aren’t in
the same room, and you go out, I wonder if you are doing what you say you are
going to or whether you are going to see your next fling. You can’t blame me.
This morning, I thought you took off with her period,” Angel said. “I wouldn’t
do that Angel,” Mark said. “Only one other request Mark. If you ever decide to
do something so stupid as to cheat on me ever again, don’t you ever bring my
daughter near that woman,” Angel said. “What woman,” Mark asked. “If you
ever Mark. If you bring her near some other woman,” Angel said. “I’m not
cheating. I’m not going to,” Mark said. “I needed to say it okay,” Angel said.
She got up and went upstairs and drew herself a bath. Mark came in behind her.
Angel slid out of her shorts and jacket. Mark slid his hands around her. “You
are so hot,” Mark whispered in her ear. His hands cupped her breasts and
massaged them. He let go and slid one hand down her torso. Angel walked
towards the bathtub and stepped in. Mark dropped his jeans, shirt and shoes
and hopped in with her. He kissed her and pulled her into his lap, wrapping her
legs around him. He kissed her. “This is how it should be,” Mark said as he
kissed her again devouring her lips with his. Angel pushed backwards and slid
back into the tub. “Get back here,” Mark said. Angel shook her head. He moved
towards her and she hopped out of the tub. “Now where you going,” he asked.
“Enjoy the tub Mark,” Angel said. She slipped her robe on and headed into the
hallway. Mark leaned back. “Tease,” he said.
Angel headed for the bedroom. Her phone rang. “Hi,” Angel said. It was
Chase. “Tell him you have to go to Arizona for a meeting. Meet me,” Chase
suggested. “I’m not leaving him here alone,” Angel said. “Bring her. I have to

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see you,” Chase said. “I know, but I can’t do that. Why not have that meeting
here,” Angel said. “You’re right. He probably is listening. Okay. Come to the
Pacifica. Suite 1403. Ocean view. Me and you. Just one night alone,” Chase
said. “I’ll see what I can do,” Angel said. “I miss you,” Chase whispered. “Me
too,” Angel replied. They hung up and Angel sat down on the bed with a grin
ear to ear. She heard the door open. “Sneaking out on me for a phone call eh,”
Mark said. “They rebooked the meeting I had for next week for around here so I
wouldn’t have to leave town,” Angel said. She pressed delete on her caller
listing. “So I guess I’ll just have to think of some way for you to make it up to
me,” Mark said. He walked towards Angel. “I’ll have to stay out at that hotel
for a night or two. Think you can handle Miss Lila all by yourself,” Angel asked.
“Definitely. Some quality Daddy/Daughter time,” Mark said. He stood in front
of Angel. She moved backwards on the bed and grabbed her book. “Oh no you
don’t,” Mark said. He grabbed the book from her hands. “What, no reading
before bed now,” Angel said. He leaned on the bed still wrapped in his towel.
“Being one heck of a tease tonight,” Mark said. “Just tired,” Angel said yawning
and hopping out of bed. “Where do you think you are going,” Mark asked
grabbing for Angel’s hand. Angel headed into the hall and checked on Lila.
“Had a feeling you were awake,” Angel said as she noticed Lila awake in her
crib. Lila had her hand in her mouth. Angel picked her up and brought her
downstairs and gave her the cold pacifier to ease her teething, then brought her
back upstairs to her crib. Lila fell asleep the moment her head hit the pillow.
Mark came up behind Angel and wrapped his arms around her waist. “Come to
bed,” Mark whispered. Angel turned to face him. “Have to grab something
from downstairs,” Angel said. “Nope,” he replied. He picked Angel up,
wrapping her legs around him and carried her to their bedroom.
“Put me down,” Angel said as he pinned her against the door as he closed and
locked it. He kissed her hard as his tongue met hers for an intense kiss. “No
more stalling,” Mark said as he came up for air. He carried her to the bed and
laid her down, dropping his towel. He slid Angel’s robe off her slowly, and
pulled the belt out of the loops. “Just what you planning to do with that,” Angel
asked. He kissed her as she felt the satin slide over her hands. He kissed her
again as he tied her hands together. He tied them again around the post of their
bed. “You think so do you,” Angel said as a smirk came across his face. He
pulled himself closer to her, into her. “Mark,” Angel said. “No. Not this time,”
he said as he pulled himself closer, deeper into her. “Mark,” Angel said. He
kissed her to silence her and moved deeper, harder into her. He kissed and
nibbled her breasts as she gasped for air. “Mark, seriously,” Angel said trying to
get him to stop. “Resistance is futile,” he said. His favorite phrase from a
favorite TV show. He kissed her again. He kept going and going until she was
trying to wriggle her hands free. “Nope. My personal sex slave for the night,”

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he said as he kissed her hard again, delving his tongue into her mouth and
devouring her lips. All of a sudden he flipped her onto her stomach. She knew
what he wanted. There was no point in fighting him. He moved deeper. Then
penetrated her again. Slowly at first, then deep, strong and hard. His fingers
fondled her as he went deeper, harder. He felt her come close to orgasm, and
moved faster. He couldn’t hold back anymore. He pulsated inside her as her
muscles contracted in waves. She slid her hands out of the satin belt. “Damn,”
he whispered as his arms held her close to him. He hadn’t moved a muscle. He
wanted to feel how close they were. To keep things this way. Not a word was
said. Once Angel knew he was out, she tried to wriggle out of his arms. She
headed into the bathroom and locked the door. “Thank god I put it in,” Angel
thought to herself. She had a feeling she couldn’t trust Mark to use protection.
Tonight proved her right.
Angel went downstairs and got herself a glass of ice water. She looked at the
time. It was almost 2 – 6AM Chase’s time. Angel grabbed the cordless phone
and went outside, pulling her robe back on and looping the belt through the
loops and tying it. “Angel,” Chase asked as he picked up the phone. “Wanted to
hear your voice,” Angel replied. “What happened,” Chase asked. “Nothing.
Just wanted to hear it,” Angel said. “That I want you so bad right now I could
hop a plane to you,” Chase said. “Then,” Angel said. She heard a door close.
“You really want to hear this don’t you,” Chase said. “Where are you,” Angel
asked. “In the car,” Chase said. “Going,” Angel asked. “It’s Saturday. Going to
the gym,” Chase said. “Sure you are,” Angel said. She heard him stop the car.
“Where,” Angel said. “Beach,” he replied. “What are you wearing,” he asked.
“Nothing but the satin robe you bought me,” Angel said checking to see that
Mark wasn’t coming. “God do I wish,” Chase said. “You and me both. I can’t
wait until Sunday,” Angel said. “Feel. Feel my tongue tasting you,” he said.
“Chase,” Angel said. She slid her fingers between her legs. Just the sound of his
voice was making her wet. “You realize how hard this is making me,” Chase
said. “The fact that my fingers are in and out trying to take the place of you right
now,” Angel said. “Shit,” Chase said. “Damn Chase,” Angel said. “So not fair,”
Chase said as Angel heard his hand pleasuring himself. “I want you so bad,”
Angel whispered. She felt her muscles start to tense. “Chase,” Angel said. “I
love you,” Chase said. Angel went quiet. “What,” she said. “I love you,” he
said as he came. “Hold on one minute,” Angel said. She pulled her robe off, put
the phone down and ran and jumped into the water, then ran back in, wrapping
her robe back around herself. “Where did you go,” Chase asked. “Needed
splash of water,” Angel said. “24 hours,” Chase replied. “Counting down,”
Angel replied hanging up.
She went to go back inside and Mark opened the door. “Was wondering where
you disappeared to,” he said. “Needed some air, then went for a quick swim,”

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Angel said walking back into the house. She headed upstairs and climbed into
bed, slipping her satin teddy on as she slid under the covers. Mark came
upstairs, closed the door and got into bed beside Angel wrapping his arms tight
around her. He pulled her close to him. He had a feeling something was wrong.
Something was off. Why did she really go downstairs? Thoughts were flying
through his mind. He kissed her neck. “Sweet dreams baby,” Angel said. “You
too,” he replied. He would have to be satisfied that she was in his bed – in his
arms. It would have to be enough tonight.

317. 2
Chapter 36
Angel was up early the next morning with Lila when Mark woke up. He headed
downstairs to a big breakfast all ready, and Angel and Lila at the table. “What’s
the special occasion,” Mark asked. “I have to head over to meet that client
tomorrow. Thought we could have a family day today,” Angel said. Mark
kissed Angel hard at the table. “Now that’s a good morning kiss,” he said sitting
down next to her. Lila giggled. She smelled like pineapple all over. “Don’t tell
me. Pineapple is her new favorite,” Mark said. “That and pomello,” Angel said.
“Going Caribbean on me are you,” Mark said. “Craved the same thing when I
was pregnant. That and mango,” Angel said. “Wish I had been around to know
that,” Mark said. “Was kind of funny actually. Crystal and I going through the
grocery store looking for pineapple and mango ice cream. Was hilarious,” Angel
said. “At least I know the warning signs for this time,” Mark said. “This time
what,” Angel asked. He looked her in the eyes. “You really think so do you?”
Mark kissed her again. “Even if I have to make love to you 5 times a day for the
next 2 years,” Mark said. “Didn’t we already discuss this? Thought we agreed
to wait a while Mark,” Angel said. “You agreed. I never did,” Mark said. “So
that’s why you didn’t last night is it,” Angel said. She grabbed the wipes and
cleaned off Lila’s hands, picking her up from her high chair and putting her into
the playpen.
Angel took the dishes and put them into the dishwasher then grabbed her laptop
and headed to the patio. “What,” Mark said following her. “If you are coming
out here, then bring out the playpen,” Angel said. “What the hell are you mad
for now,” Mark said. He took Lila out of the playpen and brought her outside.
“You aren’t getting your way this time Mark. No matter what you try,” Angel
said. “You think so do you? I found it in the bathroom Angel. Hid it,” Mark
said. He walked back inside and put his dishes in the dishwasher. “Guess you
didn’t find the backup then,” Angel said out of earshot. She knew that he would
tamper with it, so she used an old diaphragm to deceive him and hid the other in
her purse. She wasn’t about to count on him for anything. “This backup you
mean,” Mark said as he cut it in half. “What the hell Mark,” Angel said. “You
think I didn’t know about this,” Mark said. “The fact is that I don’t want another
baby right now. I don’t even know if we can last Mark. What the hell do you
want from me? You won’t hold back and do what I ask so I took things into my
own hands,” Angel said. “Fact is, that whatever’s going to happen will happen
no matter what,” Mark said. “Not if I can help it,” Angel said. Mark went
upstairs and threw on his shorts and came outside. “Why are you fighting me on
this? We are going to work Angel. No matter what I have to do, we are going to
work,” Mark said. Angel shook her head. She put her laptop on the table and
grabbed Lila. “Fine then. You look after her alone for 24 hours and tell me it’s
the easiest thing in the damn world Mark. It isn’t. Having 2 babies just makes

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things more difficult. Guess you would have had to be there during my
pregnancy to know…. Oh wait. You were getting laid from any woman that
would have you. Forgot. Sorry,” Angel said grabbing her laptop and heading
inside. She slipped her laptop into her bag, pulled on her runners and grabbed
her cell phone and purse. She threw a towel and her sun lotion into the bag.
Angel grabbed her keys and headed for the door. “Where the hell are you
going? You can’t start this shit and walk out,” Mark said. “The hell I can’t,”
Angel said. Lila started to cry. Angel walked over and picked her up. “What’s
wrong sunshine,” Angel asked. She put her head on Angel’s shoulder. Angel
grabbed the teething ring from the freezer and gave it to Lila then took her
upstairs to her crib and laid her down for a nap. When she came downstairs,
Mark was rifling through her purse. “What you looking for Mark? Another
backup,” Angel said taking her purse from his hands and putting everything
back in. “Why the hell are you carrying condoms,” he asked. “To prevent
stupid things like last night,” Angel said. He stood up and leaned her against
the wall. “Don’t you dare tell me that you didn’t want it last night,” Mark said.
“Fact is that I had to protect myself Mark. I shouldn’t have to worry about that.
You wanted it, you should have used something,” Angel said. He kissed her
hard, pulling her against his body, fingers locked in her blond hair. When he let
her up for air, she tried to push him away. He pulled her into him tightly. “Put
the bag down,” he said. “No,” Angel said. He grabbed her hand and slid the
purse from her fingers. “Let me go Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her hard again
and picked her up, wrapping her legs around him and pushing her hard into the
wall. He pulled her shorts off, dropping them to the floor. He kissed her hard,
stealing her breath. He undid his shorts, dropping them to the floor. He walked
her to the desk, dropping all his papers onto the floor and pinned her down on it.
He had sex with her. Rough, deep, fast and strong. He pulsated inside her as he
penetrated her over and over again. He pulled her to him, flipping her onto her
stomach and against the side of the desk. He penetrated her hard, as her wetness
turned him on even more. He bit into her neck – her shoulder. He finally
finished as Angel panted for breath. He pulled her up against him, wrapping his
arms around her. “No more of this bullshit Angel. You are my wife and there is
nothing that will ever change that,” Mark said.
Angel got him to let go, grabbed her shorts and pulled them on, grabbed her bag,
purse and cell and walked out the door. He followed her. Angel got into the car,
and locked the doors. She pulled out of the driveway and took off. She called
Chase. “Moved my flight up to tonight. Was just about to call you,” he said.
“Good,” Angel replied. “What happened,” he asked. “You sound upset.” “I’ll
meet you at the hotel tonight,” Angel said hanging up. She went to the cove and
laid down on her towel. “I can’t freaking believe this,” Angel said to herself. She
called the pharmacy and asked them to put something aside for her and tried to

319. 2
relax. She got some work done, then headed for the drug store. “What would
you need this for,” the pharmacist asked. “Made a little mistake the other night.
We don’t want another baby yet,” Angel said as she paid for her prescription.
“Okay then,” she said. Angel headed out, popping one of the pills immediately.
She headed back to the house. Mark’s car wasn’t in the driveway. She headed in
and there was no sign of Mark or Lila. Angel grabbed her bag from the spare
room and threw in clothes for 2 days. She showered and slipped on a sexy
slipdress and a pair of heels, did her make up and packed it, then headed
downstairs. Mark came in with Lila.
“Where are you going,” Mark asked. “It’s Saturday night. I’m going out,” Angel
said. Mark put Lila into her playpen and walked back over to Angel. “Didn’t
know we had plans tonight,” Mark said. “We don’t. I do,” Angel said trying to
walk over to grab her purse and keys. He grabbed her hand. “Never said
anything about it before now,” Mark said. “I’m going out Mark. End of
discussion,” Angel said pulling her hand away from him and walking over to
Lila. “Hi Mama,” Lila said. “Well hello princess. Did you have a nice day with
daddy,” Angel said. Lila nodded and motioned for Angel to pick her up. Angel
picked her up, giving her hugs and kisses. “Did Daddy make you dinner,”
Angel asked trying to distract him. “Was going to when we got home until I saw
this. Where the hell are you going dressed like that,” Mark said. “What’s wrong
with the dress,” Angel said. “Who you trying to impress? Me or the guy you are
meeting,” Mark said. “Wearing this because I like it. Taking myself out for a
night out if you don’t mind,” Angel said. “Bullshit,” Mark said.
Angel put Lila into her high chair. She walked over to Mark. “You swear in
front of her again Mark and I swear. I will take her and not come back ever
again,” Angel said. She walked back into the kitchen and got out food for Lila
for dinner. She sat down to feed her. Mark grabbed Angel’s keys. “You aren’t
going anywhere,” he said. “Why? Grounding me,” Angel said. “Yes,” Mark
said. “Too bad you can’t. You aren’t my mother or father Mark. I’m going
whether I take my car, yours or a cab,” Angel said. She finished getting Lila fed
as she watched Mark drink his glass of merlot. “Okay princess. You hang out
with Daddy tonight. I’ll be home later,” Angel said placing Lila in Mark’s arms.
She cleaned up Lila’s dishes and headed for the door. “No,” Mark said. “Good
night Mark,” Angel said heading for the door. “You don’t need the overnight
bag then,” Mark said grabbing it from her hand. “Mark,” Angel said. “You
don’t. You’re coming home. He’ll have to wait for another night,” Mark said.
“Would you stop. I have that meeting tomorrow at the hotel,” Angel said.
“Then you can take it with you tomorrow. You don’t need it tonight,” Mark
said. He was trying to hold onto something. Some way to hold her with him.
“Fine. I’ll be back late. Meeting up with the girls after dinner,” Angel said. She
kissed Lila goodnight and walked out. Mark followed her to the car. “Not

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kissing me goodnight,” he said. “Depends. You going to pull the bullshit you
did earlier today,” Angel asked. He pulled her to him and kissed her hard. She
pushed him away and got in the car.
“Where are you going,” Mark asked. “Dinner at Copa then out with the girls. I
already told you,” Angel said. “What bar you going to,” he asked. “Dancing.
Not sure where. They are meeting me for dessert,” Angel said. “Call me and let
me know then,” Mark said. “Gees. What am I five,” Angel said. She pulled out
of the driveway and headed for the highway.
She pulled into the airport arrivals and picked Chase up. He kissed her and they
headed to the hotel. They pulled in and Chase checked in, then met Angel in the
restaurant for dinner. “What happened to you,” Chase asked noticing the mark
on her neck and shoulder. “Mark happened. He has touched my last damn
nerve,” Angel said. Chase quieted her down. “I’ll give him this. He is one
determined man when there’s something he wants,” Chase said. He slipped his
jacket on her shoulders to cover the mark. “He is becoming a crazy man Chase.
We get into a fight about something and he practically attacks me. He refuses to
wear anything. He refuses to stick to the rules,” Angel said. “Rules are over
tonight. I’m here. You don’t have to go back,” Chase said. He held Angel’s
hand as they sipped their wine. They finished dinner, then headed out to a
dance club that Angel had never been to. They danced for a few hours, then
headed back to the hotel. They headed up to Chase’s room and locked the door
behind them.
Chase kissed her, pulling her into his arms. “I missed you so much,” he said in
between kisses. He slipped her dress off, to reveal the lace lingerie she had on
underneath it. “Damn. You come so prepared,” Chase said kissing her and
leaning her onto the king size bed. She slipped off his tie and shirt, pulling him
closer to her. He grabbed something from his coat pocket and walked back over
to Angel. He had a look in his eye. “What,” Angel said. “Nothing,” Chase said
curling up next to her as he wrapped his arms around Angel. “What is in your
hand,” Angel said feeling something hard in his hand. “Oh nothing,” Chase said
as he kissed her and slid the hard object under the pillow. He slid his dress pants
off and slid his hand along Angel’s perfectly smooth and silky tanned leg. “God
I missed this,” Chase said as he slid his hand up her body and slid the lace
lingerie off. He kissed her breast as his hand slid down her torso and between
her legs. “Missed me too I see,” Chase said as he kissed her lips. Her body
pulsated with every flick of his finger. He kissed and nibbled her breasts, then
wrapped her leg around him. He slipped on protection and made love to Angel.
It’s as if time had stood still. He knew every curve, every sweet spot on her
body. He kissed and caressed every inch of her body. He made love to her for
what seemed like hours. He craved her like a junky craving heroin. One taste of

321. 2
her. That’s all he needed to get him through the next few months. He moved
down between her legs for one taste. He couldn’t stop himself. “Chase,” Angel
said. His tongue dove into her licking her into a frenzy. He kissed her again and
they made love again.
Angel curled up in his arms. Everything was right again. “I don’t want you
going back,” Chase said. “I have to. I can’t leave Lila,” Angel said. “Bring her.
Come home with me,” Chase said. “I can’t just walk out Chase. No matter how
much I want to,” Angel said. She got up and headed for the shower. Chase
followed her. Angel washed up, then turned and was in Chase’s arms again. “I
don’t want you to go back tonight,” Chase said kissing her again. “I have to. He
will go freaking ballistic if I don’t,” Angel said. “That’s why you shouldn’t,”
Chase said. “I’m coming right back. I told him I was going to stay at the hotel
because I had meetings for 2 days. I can’t Chase,” Angel said. They stepped out
of the shower and she got changed and fixed her makeup. Chase came up
behind Angel wearing nothing but his towel. He wrapped his arms around
Angel’s waist. “I have to go home Chase,” Angel said. She looked down and
saw a small black velvet box in his hand. “Chase,” Angel said. “Open it,” he
said. “No Chase,” Angel said. He put it in her hand and opened it. Platinum
band with two heart shaped diamonds. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her.
“Crystal and I are passed done. I followed her last night. She went to his place.
I got your investigator friend to follow her while I am away. I can’t live a lie
anymore,” Chase said. He kissed Angel again. “I can’t do this without you,”
Chase said. “I have to go,” Angel said. She slipped out the door. Chase grabbed
her hand. His eyes begged her for one last kiss. He pulled her back into the
room and kissed her, slipping the ring into her purse.
Angel came in a little after 3am. Mark was asleep on the sofa with Lila on his
chest. Angel slipped Lila out of his arms, covered him with a blanket and took
Lila upstairs to her crib. She slipped on some pajamas and slid into bed. All she
could dream about was her and Chase. Him kissing her, the feel of him inside
her. Angel opened her eyes and Mark was hopping into bed beside her. She
closed them again and rolled over and away from him.
The next morning, Angel woke up with Mark’s arms tight around her. “About
time you woke up,” Mark said. “Had a long night,” Angel said rolling over and
hopping out of bed. She went and slipped her shorts on as well as her tank and
runners. “Where are you going,” Mark asked. “Just going for my run,” Angel
said. She went to grab her wallet from her purse and noticed the box with the
ring in it. She slipped it into her hip bag then went in to check on Lila. She had a
warm bottle and was playing in her playpen. “Fed her already. You do realize
it’s almost 11,” Mark said. “Really,” Angel said. She put her earphones in and
slipped her cell into her bag and headed off for her run. She got to the cove and

322. 2
stopped. She saw Chase the minute she passed the rocks. He handed her a
bottle of water. “Well,” he said. “You shouldn’t have done that Chase. If he’d
seen it, he would have freaked,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Leave. Take Lila
and all her stuff and come back. I can’t live in that house without you,” Chase
said. “I can’t just up and leave Chase. I promised I would try to fix this,” Angel
said. “You can’t when you know you are in love with me,” Chase said. “Maybe
so, but I have to give this a real try,” Angel said. He kissed her again. She
finished her water and headed back to the house.
When Angel walked in, Mark was on the sofa. Lila was in her playpen and he
was downing a glass of wine. “What are you drinking for Mark? It’s barely even
1,” Angel said. “My wife doesn’t want to be with me. She would rather go for a
damn jog on the beach or play with our daughter than be my wife. What the hell
do you expect me to do,” Mark said. “Not this,” Angel said grabbing the glass of
wine and tossing it down the drain. He came up behind her, pinning her against
the counter. “You don’t want me do you? You don’t want me, you don’t want
us. You don’t want anything I have to offer you,” Mark said. “Stop forcing it
Mark. Whatever happens will happen. You don’t need to fuck me every damn
day to prove you are a man. You don’t need to tie me up to prove that you are
my husband. Grow the fuck up,” Angel said. She pushed him out of the way
and went upstairs for a shower. He followed her into the shower. He kissed her,
leaning her against the wall. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry if I failed you as a husband.
I’m sorry if I failed you as a man. Just don’t leave me,” Mark said. His eyes
showed that he’d been crying. Something he would have never let her see.
“Mark,” Angel said. “Please don’t leave me. Please,” he said. He kissed Angel
and for the first time in weeks, she felt something towards him. He washed her
back, gently and softly. “I thought if we had another baby that it would fix
whatever was wrong. I admit I was wrong. I’m sorry,” Mark said. He kissed
Angel again as she turned the water off. They slipped out of the shower, and
Angel wrapped a towel around herself and went downstairs. Lila was out cold
in her playpen. Angel put her into her crib, then went into the bedroom. Mark
was on the bed. “Why do you have to stay at the hotel. Why can’t you come
home,” Mark asked. “I’ll see. That’s all I can promise,” Angel said. She got
dressed as Mark watched from the edge of the bed. “Please,” he said. Angel
walked over to him as he zipped up the back of her dress for her. “I’ll see how
things go. It may be late. If it’s too late, I’ll stay and come home in the morning.
I wanted to get the meeting out of the way so I can get done what I needed to this
week,” Angel said. “Please baby,” he said. “The client is only here until
Tuesday morning,” Angel said. “If not tonight then you have to come home
tomorrow night,” Mark said. “I’ll see what I can do. I’ll let you know the room
when I get to it later. I really have to go,” Angel said.

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He walked her to the car. “Promise me you won’t drink anymore today okay?
Spend some daddy and daughter time with her. Take her to the zoo,” Angel
said. He kissed her again. “I will if you promise to come home tonight, even for
an hour or two,” Mark said. “I’ll see,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “I
promise. Best behavior if you do,” Mark said. He kissed her again as she pulled
out of the driveway. She headed back to the hotel to meet Chase. She stopped
part way and sat on the beach. She had to collect her thoughts. Everything was
such a mess. She went back to the car to find the cigarettes, and saw a flier for a
psychic. She sat on the beach and pondered. She lit the cigarette. Once she
finished the cigarette, she’d decided on going to the psychic.
“Come in. Have a seat,” the woman said. “I saw your flier,” Angel said. “What
do you want to know,” the woman asked. “I have to make a decision and I don’t
know how to choose,” Angel said. “Two men. One very close to your heart. He
feels like family. Like home to you. The other used to feel this way until he gave
into his cravings for more women. You love him. He is destined to be with you,
but the other man is your true soul mate. Both of you have known this for a long
amount of time,” she said. “I just don’t know what to choose. I love the first
man. I do, I just love the other man. It’s like he’s a drug I can’t get enough of,”
Angel said. “He is your soul mate, but his past isn’t clear. His relationship is
vanishing, but something else will come up that causes turmoil. He will be
unsafe for a few months. At least until May,” the woman said. “What about the
first person,” Angel said. “He is troubled. Negativity is surrounding him. He is
toxic. If there is any upheaval in his life, something very dangerous could
happen,” she said. “How dangerous,” Angel said. The woman wouldn’t
answer. Angel got up and walked out. She got into her car and headed for the
hotel. She checked in, and drew herself a bath in the bathtub. There was a knock
at the door. Angel ignored it. “Angel,” Chase said. “Not now,” Angel said. He
knocked again and Angel hopped out of the tub, wrapped a towel around herself
and opened the door. “What,” Angel said. Chase came in and locked the door.
“What took you so long,” he said. “I can’t do this right now Chase,” Angel said.
“What the hell happened,” Chase asked. Angel sat down on the bed. “You’re
shaking,” he said. He tried to kiss Angel and she turned away. He wrapped his
arms around her to try to comfort her and she started to cry.
Angel told him what the psychic had told her and he tried to calm her down.
“You know those people are full of it. We were meant to be and there is nothing
else to it,” Chase said. “I think she is right about him though. I came home from
my jog this morning and he was drinking. Lila was in her play pen and he was
on what seemed like his fourth glass of wine,” Angel said. “He was drinking like
that around her,” Chase said. Angel nodded. “Let’s just give it until May okay,”
Angel said. “Okay,” Chase said. “I still want you all to myself until I head
home,” Chase said. “I have to go home tonight and check on Lila,” Angel said.

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Chase kissed her. It’s as almost with one kiss she felt like she was floating. He
slid her towel off, then his shirt and jeans. He smelled so good. His cologne was
intoxicating. He grabbed something from his jeans pocket and made love to
Angel. After, she curled up in his arms. “Guess we should probably eat
something,” Chase said. His torso slid down hers as his arms parted her legs
and his tongue tasted her. Angel reached her hand into the drawer and grabbed
the room service menu. “Damn,” Angel said as Chase devoured her with his
tongue. “What we having for dinner,” Chase asked. “Seafood,” Angel said. She
picked up the phone and ordered dinner, plus a bottle of zinfandel. They had a
quiet dinner just the two of them, then curled up in bed. “You don’t have to go
you know,” Chase said. “Yes I do. I have to,” Angel said. She went to get up,
and Chase wrapped his arms around her waist. “No,” Chase said. Angel got up,
showered and slipped her slip dress on and headed out the door.
Angel came into the house and Mark was asleep on the sofa. She could hear Lila
sleeping on the baby monitor. She walked over to the sofa and sat down on the
edge. She covered him with a blanket. His eyes opened. “You came home,” he
said. “Slipped out after dinner. I have to be back by 6am,” Angel said. Mark
wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her. “I need you to do something
for me tomorrow though,” Angel said. “What? Name it,” he said. “I want you
to go talk to that doctor. The one you saw before. Tell me you will,” Angel said.
“I’ll see if I can get in to see her,” Mark said. “1pm. Her office. Already made
the appointment,” Angel said. “Why do you look so worried,” Mark asked.
“Yes or no,” Angel said. “Yes,” he replied. Angel slid her heels off and curled
up on the sofa with him. She fell asleep in his arms.
She woke up with Lila staring in her eyes. “Mama,” she said. “Hey baby. How
are you,” Angel said yawning. “Up,” Lila said. Angel picked her up in her
arms. “What time is it,” Angel said. “Seven. I tried to wake you,” Mark said.
“Damn,” Angel said. She ran upstairs and pulled on her other dress, then
brought Lila back downstairs and gave her a kiss. Mark handed Angel her coffee
and kissed her. “I la you Mama,” Lila said. “Love you too baby,” Angel said.
She kissed Lila, then gave Mark another kiss goodbye and headed back to the
hotel.
She came into her room to find Chase still asleep. She slid her dress off and slid
into bed. Chase rolled over, pulling Angel to him and kissing her. “Morning,”
Angel said. He moved on top of her, kissing her. He pulled her legs around
him. Angel grabbed her purse and handed Chase a condom. He slid it on, then
slid himself inside her. It felt so good. So right. The longer it lasted, the more
intense he got. When they finally came up for air, they were both covered in
sweat. “I don’t want to sleep alone tonight. Tell me I get you for one whole
night all to myself,” Chase said. “I’ll see,” Angel said. “I don’t want to hear I’ll

325. 2
see,” Chase said. He kissed her hard again and pinned her arms to the bed. “I
want to hear yes. I want to hear how bad you want me with every breath. I
want to hear you can’t stand to be without me.” He kissed her again and she
gave into him.
Hours later, Chase ordered them lunch. Angel was exhausted. Chase woke her
up with the scent of mango and pineapple. He sat down on the bed beside her.
“Chase, you know I can’t stay. I have to at least try to make an effort to be his
wife,” Angel said. “So is that a yes? You want to be with me? To be my wife,
and the woman I want to spend forever with? You giving me that chance,”
Chase asked. Angel slipped a piece of pineapple in her mouth. He moved
towards her. “Chase, I can’t do this now. We already discussed this. May. Give
it until May,” Angel said. “I can’t do this. I can’t wait until freaking May,”
Chase said. “Let’s just relax and enjoy today okay,” Angel said. She ate her
lunch then tried to relax. Chase walked over to the balcony and sat down on the
deck chair. Angel slipped her satin teddy on and walked outside. “Why is it so
important Chase? Why now,” Angel said. “She hasn’t wanted to be with me for
months. She doesn’t love me anymore, and you don’t either,” Chase said. Angel
sat in his lap. “Yes I do Chase. I love you. I always have. I just can’t walk away
from this. Not with a clear conscience. Besides, we can’t do anything until we’re
both divorced,” Angel said. “I don’t care about that. I just want to be with you.
I want to be with the one woman who makes me happy. Can’t you see that,”
Chase said. Angel kissed him. “I love you Chase. I do. I just can’t deprive Lila.
I can’t do this,” Angel said. “I understand that. That’s why I took so long to
leave my last wife Angel. I just know now, that breaking it off with her was the
best thing. For me and for the kids. Can’t you see that she would be better off
with you and I? Seeing two people who love each other instead of two people
who are constantly at each other’s throats,” Chase said. Angel got up and went
back into the room. She went for a hot shower.
She tried to think. She needed silence. Mark was trying. He really was. Her
feelings towards Chase were so strong. It’s as if they were meant to be. She
couldn’t deny that Mark loved her. She loved him too, but he’d had one too
many chances. He’d cheated over and over again. How could she expect him
not to do it again? Now she was as bad as him. She wanted Chase at every
moment. Every second.
She heard the door open and Chase slid into the shower with her. His strong
arms wrapped around her waist. Angel looked down to his hands. It wasn’t
Chase. Angel turned to face this stranger and saw Mark. He kissed her. “I
missed you. I couldn’t wait,” Mark said. He kissed her again, picking her up in
his arms. He turned off the water and carried her into the bedroom, laying her
on the bed. Angel looked around, and there was no sign of Chase. She laid her

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head on the pillow and felt the small box under the pillow. Mark kissed her neck
as she slid the box into the drawer of the bedside table. “How did you know
where I was,” Angel asked as he moved down to kiss her breasts. “I called the
desk. They said you hadn’t left your room. I figured it would be the perfect way
to surprise you,” Mark said. He slid down her silky skin, kissing her hip then
moving slowly down her thigh. “Mark, I really have to get back. I was just
having a quick shower,” Angel said. He slid back up and she felt him inside her.
He made love to her. Slowly, passionately, intensely. Every move drove her
more and more crazy. Their hearts raced in unison.
Angel slid out of bed and went to pull her dress on, when Mark sat up. “Where
you going,” he asked. “I have to get to my meeting. I have to be there by 3,”
Angel said. “Hold on a second. Where is Lila?” “She’s with Raven,” Mark said.
Angel slid into the bathroom, saying thank god she had put her diaphragm in.
“I thought you were supposed to be having bonding time with her,” Angel said.
“I am. I did. I took her out today and we spent the day at the aquarium. I just
missed my baby,” Mark said wrapping his arms around Angel’s waist again.
“Zip,” Angel said. He zipped up the back of her dress, kissing her neck. “I
really have to go Mark,” Angel said. He spun her around and pulled her in close
to him. “You are coming home tonight right,” Mark said. He kissed her then
Angel backed up. She fixed her lipstick. “I’ll see what I can do Mark. If I do, I’ll
be late. Don’t wait up for me okay,” Angel said. He kissed her again. She
grabbed her key and purse and headed out the door. She headed up the steps.
When she got to the door of Chase’s room, she took a deep breath. She knocked.
He opened the door.
“What,” Chase said. “Not inviting me in then,” Angel said. “Forget it.” Angel
turned to walk away and he grabbed her arm pulling her into the room. He
closed the door and double locked it. “So what did Mark want,” Chase asked.
“How the hell did you slip out without him seeing you,” Angel said. “I left the
minute you got in the shower. I opened the door to the stairwell the second he
walked off the elevator. Figured you two wanted to be alone,” Chase said
grabbing a glass of wine. He walked out onto his balcony gulping the wine.
“Chase. What do you want me to do? Turn around when he is standing there
naked in front of me and say I just fucked you? That I have spent the past 2 days
naked in bed with you and that he should take my daughter and go home? You
just don’t get it,” Angel said. “I do. You don’t love me enough to walk away.
You want both of us. I’m sure he would love it. He could have that threesome
he always wanted. He may have to share, but hey. Not like he hasn’t done it
before,” Chase said. Angel walked out to him and grabbed his glass of wine.
She chugged the rest of it. She pushed him. “You’re wasted Chase. Snap the
fuck out of it. Life doesn’t revolve around you,” Angel said. He grabbed the
glass pulling it out of her hand and throwing it against the brick of the balcony.

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“I don’t want you with him. You drive me insane. Just the thought of his hands
on you. I don’t want it happening. I can’t even think of him with his hands on
you,” Chase said. He pinned her against the balcony wall. “I want it to be mine
and nobody else’s. Got it?” He kissed her hard as he slid her dress up around
her waist. “One thing though. You don’t need this,” Chase said sliding her
diaphragm out. He flung it over the balcony ledge. “Chase what the hell,”
Angel said as he pulled her legs around his waist and pulled her straps of her
dress off her shoulders. “You are mine and that’s all there is to it. Mine. Not
Mark’s. Mine,” he said walking into the bedroom and laying her on the bed. He
pulled his tank off, then pulled his jeans off. He unzipped her dress and pulled it
off. “You don’t get until May Angel. You get until the end of April,” Chase said.
He kissed her again and pulled himself against her. He kissed her roughly as her
heart started racing. “Chase, slow down,” Angel said. He kissed her again to
silence her and had sex with her. “Say it’s mine,” Chase said. “Chase,” Angel
said. “Say it,” he said as he started getting faster and harder. “It’s…….” “Say it
Angel,” Chase said. “It’s yours. Shit. It’s yours,” Angel said as they both came.
He kissed her so hard he took her breath from her lungs. They spent the rest of
the afternoon in bed. Dinner in bed, dessert in bed. By the time they both fell
asleep it was almost 2am. Angel said thank god for condoms after round 1. She
was running a huge risk – a risk she was almost willing to take.

328. 2
Chapter 37
Angel slid out of bed just after Chase fell asleep, grabbed her cell and headed for
the balcony. She slid the hotel robe on and closed the balcony door. She dialed.
“Was wondering when I was going to hear that voice,” Mark said. “We took the
client out tonight. I just got back. I’m going to get some sleep tonight. I’ll be
home tomorrow for dinner okay,” Angel said. “Miss you. So does Lila,” Mark
said. “I miss you guys too. Give her a kiss for me,” Angel said. “Can’t wait to
give you your surprise when you get home,” Mark said. “What might that be,”
Angel said. “Let’s say it involves candles, champagne, strawberries and
whipped cream,” Mark said. “Sounds interesting,” Angel said. “Wanna know
what I’m going to do with the whipped cream,” Mark asked. Angel heard the
sliding door open. “I’ll talk to you tomorrow. I have to go,” Angel said. “I want
you so bad right now,” Mark said. “Tomorrow,” Angel said as Chase grabbed
the phone from her hand and hung it up. “Backing out already are you,” he said.
He walked back into the bedroom and threw the phone across the room onto the
bed. “Backing out on what you said already. Should have fuckin’ known,”
Chase said. Angel walked back into the bedroom. “Would you stop. I had to
call. He was waiting up,” Angel said. “You aren’t going back there Angel. Not
without me. You’re telling him about us,” Chase said. “You know you are
acting like a lunatic,” Angel said. “No I’m not,” Chase said pinning her into the
wall. He kissed her hard. “You either tell him or you’ll never see me again,”
Chase said. “Chase,” Angel said. “I can’t wait. I won’t. You either want me in
your life and Lila’s or you want his lying, cheating, deceiving, undercover
bullshit. Make a choice Angel. I am out of here at 5 tomorrow. Either you tell
me by then, or don’t come back,” Chase said.
He kissed her and walked away. He threw her dress to her. “Get out,” Chase
said. Angel pulled her dress on, slid her heels on and grabbed her purse and
key. “Go,” Chase said. “Chase,” Angel said. “You don’t mean this. I can’t do
this right now. End of May. I promise. I’ll get everything together. Please.”
“Go,” Chase said. “Don’t do this Chase. Don’t,” Angel said. Her eyes started
welling up. “Don’t think the bullshit tears are going to change anything. You
don’t come with me, then don’t come back. I’ll buy the house from you,” Chase
said. “I swear it has to be the alcohol talking,” Angel said. “No it isn’t. I’m not
intoxicated. It’s my heart talking. It’s a simple answer. Follow your damn heart
for once,” Chase said. Angel tried to kiss him. “Go. Make your decision. I can’t
do this,” Chase said. He pushed Angel out the door and locked it. She stood
staring at the door. Every sense in her brain told her to go, but her heart couldn’t
let her walk away. Her eyes were filled with tears. She muttered “I love you,”
then walked away and back to her room.

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When she walked in, she sat down on the edge of the bed and slipped her hand
into the drawer. She reached into the back of it and pulled the ring out. She slid
it on her finger just to see. She noticed an engraving on the band.
For my one forever love. Took me forever. I love you. Chase.
Her tears overflowed from her eyes. She leaned her head on her pillow, and
curled up on the bed. She fell asleep with the ring on. The one thing that had
meant more to her than anything else. She’d never had a day in her life where
she didn’t think of Chase. Of something he’d told her, a joke they’d shared. A
memory they’d had from her early twenties. From the minute they met, they’d
been destined. They were inseparable until she moved away. It was when he’d
first met Crystal. Angel felt defeated. Like it was pointless to stay. She walked
away for her own benefit and ran to the first man that she found. He turned out
to be the most wrong man ever, especially for her. Mark is what got her
through.
She thought he really was her prince charming. Everything about him. He
swept her off her feet and romanced her into his heart. He had been perfect.
Every move he made was tugging at her heartstrings. Every time he kissed her it
was like her heart beat was stronger. He had been perfect in her eyes. He loved
her. Every surprise trip, surprise dinner, surprise destination was his way of
getting into her heart. He felt like he could buy her love and it would mean
she’d love him forever. It really wasn’t enough. She had him in her heart and
soul. She couldn’t let go. She loved him in her own way, it just wasn’t the same
way as he loved her. She loved being with him, but she couldn’t stand what
happened when he was alone. Who would he end up with this time. Angel
awoke with a start. She pulled on her track suit and headed for her car. She had
to know if her feeling was right.
She headed for the highway, then for their street. She pulled into the drive.
There was another car there. Angel opened the front door. The alarm wasn’t on.
She went inside. Mark wasn’t on the sofa. Angel walked upstairs. She checked
on Lila. She was out cold. Angel walked into the bedroom. She heard a noise
from the bathroom. She walked in. Mark was in the shower. She slipped her
track suit off, and slid in behind him. “I thought you were,” he said as he turned
to face her. He had a mark on his neck. “Well hello,” Angel said. She pushed
him into the wall of the shower, then grabbed a towel and went downstairs. She
walked out to the terrace. She saw pedicured toes and smoke coming from the
chaise. “You better be getting your ass up,” Angel said. The person slid her legs
over the edge of the chaise to face Angel. “Nice seeing you again Angel,” Denise
said. “Get the fuck off my terrace and get the fuck off my property,” Angel said.
“Not unless Mark tells me to, and I promise he won’t,” Denise said. “Tell me

330. 2
you didn’t Mark. Tell me you didn’t have sex with her,” Angel said knowing
that he was right behind her. “We bumped into each other today. We kissed.
That’s all. I swear to god,” Mark said. Angel walked towards Denise. She was
in a dress. Angel grabbed her by the throat and walked her to her car. “I said
out. Do you know the meaning of the word? Out,” Angel said pushing her into
her car. “Off the property or I am calling the cops.” Denise left and Angel
turned her anger towards Mark. He backed up right into the back yard of the
house. “And you,” Angel said. “What,” Mark said. “You…..you…….asshole,”
Angel said. She walked up to him and pushed him out of the way. She went
upstairs, pulled her jeans and sweatshirt on, threw clothes into a bag, then took
the bag into Lila’s room, and packed a small one of her things. She picked Lila
out of bed, grabbed her bags, purse, keys and cell and walked out. “Angel,”
Mark said chasing her to the car. She locked Lila into her car seat. “Angel don’t
do this,” Mark said. “Let her give you a hickey too eh Mark. Smart. Could of at
least tried to conceal it,” Angel said pulling out of the driveway and heading
back to the hotel.
She called ahead to the hotel and asked them to put a crib in her room. When
she got there, she went to the desk and wrote a note to Chase and asked them to
deliver it to his room immediately. She went upstairs and tucked Lila back into
bed, then poured herself a big glass of wine and sat out on the balcony. There
was a knock at the door. “Angel. Open the damn door,” Mark said. “Go the
hell away and don’t you dare wake Lila up,” Angel said. “Open it,” Mark said.
“Go away Mark. I’m done. Go. Go fuck whatever you want,” Angel said. Lila
woke up and started crying. “Let me in,” Mark said. Angel went to the phone
and called down to the front desk. “Can you come remove this man from my
hall,” Angel asked hanging up. “Go home Mark. Go pack your shit. You are
leaving. Go,” Angel said. She sat on the balcony and rocked Lila back to sleep.
She laid her in her bed and sat back down on the balcony, filling her glass back
up with wine. She called up to Chase’s room. There was no answer. Angel
leaned back in the chair as the tears streamed down her face.
She’d gone so wrong. Her best friend, her lover, her confidant had given her an
ultimatum. She’d had her hand forced, but for good reason. Now if she could
only hear his voice telling her everything would be okay. She leaned her head
back and took her last gulp of wine. “Why,” Angel said. “Why what,” a voice
replied. Angel turned to look and saw Chase. He was leaning against the sliding
door. Angel leaned her head back. “I can’t fight anymore Chase. I can’t. I can’t
fight my feelings for you and my feelings for him. Something has to give. Of all
fucking people. Denise? Come on,” Angel said. Chase picked her up from her
chair and carried her to the bed. “Just hold me Chase. Tell me this will all be
over soon,” Angel said with tears pouring from her eyes. “It will be over in the
morning Angel. All over,” Chase said noticing the ring on her finger. Her

331. 2
wedding band and engagement ring from Mark were on the side table. His ring
was on her finger. He laid down on the bed beside her until she fell asleep.
Chase called the airline from his cell phone. “I need two extra tickets. One child
one adult on the same flight. Put it on my card,” Chase said hanging up. He
picked Lila up, got the bellman to take the crib to his suite, and tucked her back
into bed. He went down and got Angel, followed by the bellman who got her
things from the room, and brought her upstairs.
The next morning, Angel woke up. Chase was at her side and she had a wicked
hangover. “Orange juice,” Chase said handing her a glass. Angel got up from
the bed and ran for the bathroom. She was sick to her stomach. “You okay,”
Chase asked. “Yeah,” Angel said rinsing her mouth out. She came back into the
bedroom. “How did I get up here,” Angel asked. “After you passed out, I
brought you two upstairs. Figured you were safer up here,” Mark said. “Why is
everything packed,” Angel said. “We’re on the 2pm flight. All three of us,”
Chase said. “I can’t just,” Angel tried to say. She ran for the bathroom again.
“Angel,” Chase said. She rinsed her mouth out again and came out. “That’s
twice in one morning. You’re pregnant aren’t you,” Chase said. “No. Probably
just something I ate. I get like this when I am hungover,” Angel said. “Yeah.
Okay,” Chase said. He kissed her and handed her breakfast. They relaxed and
ate, then Angel got freshened up and they headed for the car. “I checked into
getting your car sent up. $500.00. That okay,” Chase said. “Why don’t I just get
rid of it? I don’t need it up there. I’ll get something else,” Angel said. “That can
be done too,” Chase said. He called down to the front desk. “Checking out in
about 20 minutes,” Chase said. He handed Angel her jacket. Lila was changed
and fed, and everything was packed. He handed Angel an envelope. “It has
your rings in it. We’re stopping there on the way,” Chase said. He picked Lila
up, grabbed Angel’s purse and cell, and headed for the door. “Coming,” he
asked. Angel nodded and grabbed Lila from his arms. ‘’Chase,” Angel said.
“It’s done. Go get in the car,” Chase said. Angel took Lila and put her in the car
seat, then buckled herself in.
Chase got in, and pulled off towards Angel’s house. The closer he got, the more
her heart started to race. “Chase, I can’t,” Angel said. “We’re doing this. End of
discussion,” Chase said. He pulled onto the street, then into the driveway. Mark
came outside. “What the hell? Angel, get in here. We need to talk,” Mark said.
Angel got out of the car and went inside.
“What the hell is Chase doing here and what the hell is he doing here with you
and my child,” Mark said. “Here Mark. Take them. Do whatever you want
with them,” Angel said walking upstairs to the bedroom to grab some of her
other clothes. She grabbed a bag and threw them in. “What the fuck is this,”
Mark said. Angel threw in her sweaters, then her jeans and dresses. She zipped

332. 2
up the bag, then headed into Lila’s room and threw her clothes into a bag along
with her diapers and wipes. Angel came downstairs with the bags and put them
on the front step. “Where are you going with my daughter,” Mark said. “I’m
going where I belong. When I come back, it won’t be for you Mark,” Angel said.
“What the hell does that mean,” Mark said. “I’m going. You can screw
whomever you want Mark. I can’t stand here and do this again. It’s done. I
can’t even trust you one night. Lila was in the damn house and you are making
out with her. What the hell Mark. I am so past done,” Angel said.
Chase was sitting outside in the car. The front door was open, then got slammed
shut.
“You aren’t walking out this damn door. Over my dead body Angel,” Mark
said. “Yes I am. You want to screw around and make out with other women,
fuck other women, you go ahead Mark. I’ll just get out of your way,” Angel said.
He grabbed her arm. “Let go.” “Not letting go. I never will. You can’t walk
away from me. She made the move on me. I told her to screw off, and she bit
me for fuck sakes. Why do you think she was out there,” Mark said. “Cause you
were trying to wash off the evidence. She do it the way you wanted it Mark?
She suck it good,” Angel asked. He grabbed her and pulled her to him, kissing
her. “You aren’t walking out that door. You aren’t,” he said. He picked her up
as she tried to fight him off. “Put me down Mark. I swear. You don’t put me
down and I will scream,” Angel said. “And who the fuck is going to come save
you? Chase,” Mark said. He put her down and pinned her into the wall. “Get
off me Mark,” Angel said. “Go ahead and scream,” he said. He didn’t notice her
cell in her hand. She dialed Chase. “Mark get the hell off of me,” Angel said.
She heard a dial tone.
Not even a minute later, the front door opened and Chase came in, walking up
the steps and pushing Mark. “Get off of her Mark,” Chase said. “And who the
hell called the artillery? What the hell are you even doing in town,” Mark asked.
“None of your damn business. Let go of her,” Chase said. “Trying to run off
with my wife again? Gee. Nice try, but she’s my wife. She isn’t and will never
be yours Chase,” Mark said. Angel took one look at Chase and knew he was
about to blow. “Stop it both of you,” Angel said. “Mark, I am leaving. It has
nothing to do with Chase, and everything to do with you and your major ass
problem of infidelity. I told you once that if it happened again, I was out. I am
out. Totally, 100% out of here. Now let go of my arm,” Angel said. “No.
Nothing happened. She tried to kiss me. You know me better than that. I want
you. Only you,” Mark said. “Prove it Mark. Give me one reason why I should
ever trust you – why I should let you be a part of my life and Lila’s,” Angel said.
“Because I am your husband. The father of that little girl. Nothing happened
with that stupid woman. She showed up here. You don’t believe me check out

333. 2
the security tape,” Mark said. “Let go of my arm Mark,” Angel said. “No. You
are watching that damn tape and I am proving it to you. You aren’t leaving with
him. End of discussion,” Mark said. He pulled Angel into the office with him
and sat her down in the chair and put on the security feed. Frame by frame, it
showed that he was right. “Fine Mark. You proved your damn point. Fact is,
that I can’t do this back and forth thing anymore. I just can’t,” Angel said.
“What back and forth thing,” Mark said.
Angel knew she had to come clean. She walked outside and got Lila from her car
seat. She brought her in and slipped her into her crib. When she came
downstairs, Chase and Mark were having a heated discussion. “She wants to be
with me Mark. Don’t you get it? She isn’t a damn toy for you to screw around
with. Leave her alone and let us be happy. She doesn’t want to be here,” Chase
said. “Is this true Angel? You want to be with him and not me,” Mark said. “I
can’t sit around waiting for the next time that you are going to stray Mark. I
can’t have the stress of watching you at every moment. I just keep expecting it to
happen again. What do you want from me? I have to be true to me Mark. True
to my heart. Fact is, everything is easier up there. Everything is simpler. There’s
no worries about you being with someone else, there’s no stress and I am with
my family. I can’t sit around and wait anymore. You tried. I know you did, but
it’s just not enough. The thought of her even being in this house makes my skin
crawl. You wonder why I get so nervous when you are alone with Lila? How
many times have you been miserable at home and open a bottle of wine and
drink while she is still awake? How many times do you have to run to the arms
of someone else for me to realize that you don’t really love me. You love the
idea. I can’t live like this, and I don’t intend for Lila to either,” Angel said. She
walked outside and sat down on the swing.
Mark and Chase both followed. “Let me talk to my damn wife alone okay? Shit
Chase,” Mark said. “She doesn’t need more of your bullshit. Every damn word
out of your mouth is a lie to her. Try telling her the truth for once. Try telling
her that you want other women as well as her. See what happens Mark. You
damn well know that’s what you want,” Chase said. Mark clocked him. “Back
the hell off,” Mark said. “You are in for it now,” Chase said. He grabbed Mark
by the neck. Angel turned and saw them. She got up running towards them.
“Enough. Stop it,” Angel said trying to break them up. Angel went into the
house and called the airline, delaying the plane tickets until the following day.
“Mark, sit. Chase, outside,” Angel said. Angel sat down with Mark.
“Why are you doing this to me,” Mark said. “You know he’s right Mark. Ever
since you decided to let me in on your swinger idea, we have been at each other’s
throats. I just can’t do this. I can’t wait around for the next woman you decide to
do something with to invade our lives. Don’t you get it,” Angel said. “I told you

334. 2
I didn’t want that anymore. I only want two women in my life other than my
family. You and Lila are those two. I don’t want the other crap anymore. I
realized how hard it was. How hard I made it for you. I know why you couldn’t
trust me, but I thought we were working on it? I thought you were really giving
us a real try,” Mark said. “I did. I tried Mark. I still am. I just can’t do this. I
can’t sit here waiting for it to happen,” Angel replied. “There isn’t anyone else.
Or is there,” Mark asked. “We are friends. He is here and always has been
whenever I needed someone. I can’t help seeing that things would be so much
easier if I were with him,” Angel said. “Fact is that you aren’t. We are married.
The only people that matter to this are you, me and Lila. I’m not losing either
one of you,” Mark said. His eyes started welling up. “I love you. I do Mark.
You just don’t see how much all of this has hurt me. I love you, but I can’t do
this. You have to see that,” Angel said. “Give me time Angel. Please. Let me
have time to show you that you can trust me. Please,” Mark said. Angel got up
and went outside.
Chase was inhaling his cigarette. “He change your mind again,” Chase asked.
“Chase,” Angel said. He looked at her. “He did didn’t he,” Chase said. “I think
it’s best that we just go with our original plan Chase. Give it a couple of months.
You need time to get over your relationship with Crystal and figure things out
for you. I’m not jumping in and taking her place. Can’t we just try to get past all
this,” Angel said. “Not if you aren’t ever going to be mine,” Chase said. “I
didn’t say never Chase. I didn’t. I just said we need to let the dust settle. We’re
both afraid to be alone. That’s why we are always together. Maybe we need
alone time. I love you. You are my best friend. I don’t want to lose that,” Angel
said. “I don’t either. You don’t know how hard this is Angel. I love you. I
always have. I can’t even think about the two of you together. It makes my
blood boil. I can’t wait forever,” Chase said. “A few months is the deal. Then
I’ll figure it out. Final decision and both of you will have to live with it,” Angel
said. “If you need anything,” he said. “I’ll let you know Chase. I will,” Angel
said hugging him. He held her in his arms as he fought back tears. Angel’s eyes
were welled up and overflowed. “Can I say goodbye to Lila,” Chase asked.
“Yes,” Angel said. “Remember one thing okay? I love you. No matter what
happens, I love you,” Chase said. “I love you too,” Angel said as she headed into
the house.
Chase walked upstairs to give Lila a kiss goodbye. “So what’s happening? Tell
me you aren’t leaving. Please baby,” Mark said. Angel walked over to the
phone and cancelled the airline tickets for her and Lila. “We’ll send out a credit
then,” the agent said. “Thanks so much,” Angel said hanging up. “Does this
mean what I think it does,” Mark asked. “So long as nothing happens Mark,”
Angel said. He kissed her. “And you apologize for hitting Chase,” Angel said
noticing him coming down the steps. “I apologize Chase,” Mark said.

335. 2
“Whatever,” Chase said. He went to walk out. “Chase,” Angel said. “All I have
to say is this is your last chance Mark. I can’t wait for you to screw up,” Chase
said walking out. He got into the car and headed for the airport.

336. 2
Chapter 38
Angel came back inside. She knew this was the right decision. It had to be. Or
did it? “You better have meant what you said Mark,” Angel said. “I did baby,”
Mark said wrapping his arms around her. “I swear Mark. If you do one thing to
screw up one more time,” Angel said. Mark kissed her, pulling her into his arms.
“You’ll never have to worry about that,” Mark said. He picked her up in his
arms and carried her up to their bed. “Mark, you know what I’m going to say
don’t you,” Angel said. “I promise. No more breaking of that rule,” Mark said.
He laid her on the bed, then slipped into the bathroom and turned on the hot
water in their Jacuzzi tub. “Now, once that is filled up, we have a little while,
just you and me. Lila should be out for a bit,” Mark said. He kissed Angel
sliding her dress from her shoulders and unzipping the back. As the dress slid
down her body, he kissed her from head to toe. He slid her foot from her heels,
then carried her to the bathtub. “What’s up with all the carrying Mark,” Angel
said. “You do realize you’re late don’t you,” Mark said. Angel looked at him.
“So you have that all figured out do you,” Angel said. “And,” Mark said
jokingly. He put her down by the tub, then they stepped in together.
“Lean back babe,” he said sliding into the tub across from her. “Mark, what are
you up to,” Angel said. He took her foot in his hand and began to massage.
“One of the millions of things I didn’t get to do last time,” Mark said. “Last time
what,” Angel asked. “Last time you were pregnant,” he said. “Would you. I’m
not Mark,” Angel said. “How do you know Angel,” he asked. “I had it over a
week ago, and did a test,” Angel said. “You mean the week you refused to sleep
in bed with me,” he said. “Only lasts 3 days,” Angel said. “How did I not know
that,” Mark said. “You were a little busy Mark,” Angel said. “How could I have
been too busy to know that,” he said. “It happens Mark,” Angel replied as he
continued the foot massage. Angel didn’t have the heart to tell him that she’d
got a pill to prevent her from getting pregnant. “Well since we have some alone
time,” Mark said. He moved forward. “You really do have a one-track mind
don’t you,” Angel said. “With this body in my arms, you bet,” he replied pulling
Angel into his arms. He kissed her passionately and pulled her close against
him. “Mark,” Angel said. “Yes baby,” he said kissing her chest. “She’s awake,”
Angel said. He kissed Angel again. “Seriously,” Angel said. Mark got up and
went into Lila’s room. All of a sudden she was quiet again. Mark came back into
the bathroom and back into the tub. “How in the world,” Angel said. “She lost
her soother,” Mark said. “Oh,” Angel said. He slid across the tub, leaning
against Angel. “Now where were we again,” Mark said. He kissed Angel
passionately as his body leaned against hers. “I want you so bad I can taste it,”
Mark said. “Mark, she’s going to get up soon,” Angel said. He pulled the plug
on the tub and took Angel’s hand. “Follow me then,” he said. He led her to their
bed, then pinned her to the mattress.

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“Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her to silence her. His body leaned against hers
as she felt him against her. “You promised Mark,” Angel said. He leaned over
her head and under the pillow. “What,” Angel said. She heard him rip
something open and slide it on. “As promised,” Mark said as he penetrated her.
He kissed her softly then gradually became rougher. As he came hard, his lips
kissed hard against her neck. “Mark,” Angel said as he let her go from his grip.
He pulled her close to him and laid his head against her chest. They caught their
breath. Angel heard Lila. “She’s up. I’ll get her,” Angel said. Mark kissed her
as she slid out of his grip. Angel went to grab her robe and noticed that there
was a wrapper on the floor, but it’s contents were still inside it. “Mark,” Angel
said. He got up from the bed and looked at the floor. Angel noticed that he had
worn protection….but what was a condom in the opened wrapper doing under
the bed?
Angel walked into Lila’s room and got her from her crib. “Sleep well princess,”
Angel said. “Up Mama,” Lila said. Angel picked her up and changed her then
brought her into the bedroom. “You want to explain that to me,” Angel said.
“What,” Mark said. Angel walked over and picked it up. “This,” Angel said.
She put Lila on the bed and slipped her bikini on. “Baby, you can’t really think,”
Mark said. “I’m not saying a damn word Mark. All I know is there better be a
good truthful story to why that is there,” Angel said. She pulled her shorts and
runners on, grabbed her sunglasses, hip pouch, cell and ipod and headed
downstairs. Angel put Lila into the stroller and headed out the door. Mark came
running down the stairs as Angel walked out the door. Angel jogged along the
street, then down to the boardwalk by the beach. She got to the cove and
stopped. Not only was she boiling, she had tears streaming from her eyes. She
missed Chase already. Her cell rang. She checked it. “Hello,” Angel said. “I’m
staying until Friday,” Chase said. “What,” Angel said. “You heard me. I’m
staying. I went to go leave, and started missing you and Lila. Can we meet up,”
Chase said. “Chase, I have to give things a chance with Mark,” Angel said. “I
know, but I just want to spend some time with her. Please,” Chase said. “Let me
talk to him. I’ll let you know,” Angel said. “I’m staying at the other hotel. The
one by the cove. Suite 1107,” Chase said. Angel hung up. Lila was out cold in
the stroller. “What am I going to do with you,” Angel said. She cooled her off,
then they headed back to the house.
When they came in, Mark was on the sofa. Angel saw a bottle of zinfandel in the
ice bucket on the table. She took Lila upstairs, changed her, and brought her
downstairs and put her in her playpen. “Mark,” Angel said. He looked over at
her as he drank his glass of wine. “What,” he said. “You have that explanation
yet,” Angel asked. “I didn’t use it. I dropped it the other night when you were
here. I didn’t use it,” Mark said. “Then why are you drinking,” Angel asked.

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“The ring on your hand,” Mark said. Angel looked down and realized that she
still had it on. She slipped it off and put it in her purse. “He really wants to
marry you doesn’t he,” Mark said. “Yes. He asked me. I told him that neither
one of us was in a place to do that. Then he told me to keep the ring and hold
onto it, because soon enough we would be,” Angel said. She turned to walk
upstairs. “You want to be with him,” Mark said. Angel turned around. “Why
the hell would I be here if I wanted Chase Mark,” Angel said. “Cause you feel
like you have to,” he said guzzling what was left of his glass of wine. “Would
you stop with the wine already,” Angel said. “Why the hell should I? You don’t
want to be with me, you want to be with him. Lila loves him more than she
loves me. It’s like he’s already taken my place,” Mark said. “He hasn’t Mark. I
am here with you, so is Lila. She knows him well, but she doesn’t love him
more. Cut this shit out,” Angel said. “You still don’t want me do you,” Mark
said. “Would you. That has nothing to do with anything Mark and no. You’re
wrong. I do, just not like that,” Angel said. She walked upstairs and showered,
then slipped on her dress and grabbed her cell.
Angel came down the stairs a few minutes later, and Mark was on another glass.
“Go get dressed. Something nice,” Angel said. “What the hell are you talking
about,” Mark said. “Go. Put on something nice. We’re going out just you and
me,” Angel said. “I’ll be back in a half hour and you better be ready,” Angel
said. She headed out the door with Lila, the baby bag, and a plan.
She dropped Lila off with Chase. “I’ll come get her tomorrow morning after my
jog. Her food is in the bag, and a pile of diapers and a few changes of clothes.
Her blankets are in there too,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. “You took off the
ring,” he said. “I didn’t put it away. It’s in my purse,” Angel said. “Don’t
leave,” Chase said. “I have to. Take care of my princess Chase. No funny
business either. I’ll be back in the morning,” Angel said. She headed out the
door, not without another kiss from Chase.
Angel walked back into the house to find Mark on the sofa, now dressed, but still
drinking the wine. Angel grabbed the bottle, corked it, slipped it into the fridge
and threw out his glass of wine. “What the hell,” Mark said. “Get up Mark,”
Angel said. “Where are we going,” Mark asked. “Out. Get in the car,” Angel
said. “Give me the keys then,” he said. “No. I want to make it where we are
going in one piece thank you very much,” Angel said. “Where did you take Lila
anyway,” Mark said as Angel locked up and activated the alarm. “Lila is with
her babysitter for the night,” Angel replied. They hopped in the car and Angel
headed for the restaurant.
They pulled into the parking lot as Mark looked at Angel. “You do realize where
we are right,” Mark said. “We are going in Mark,” Angel said. They headed into

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the restaurant and to their regular table. There was already a guest at the table in
the private dining area. “You sit. I’m just going to call to check on Lila,” Angel
said as Mark leaned in to kiss her. She kissed his cheek and headed for the
washrooms.
Mark sat down with their guest. “Angel told me you needed to talk to me
Mark,” Andrea said. “What did she tell you,” Mark asked. “She told me about
the other night, plus the drinking,” Andrea said. “It’s not like it’s that big of a
deal,” Mark said. “Which? The fact that you were tempted by another woman
again or the two bottles of wine in 3 days,” Andrea asked. “What is the big
fucking deal? So I felt like a drink. So what,” Mark said. “Mark, you know there
is more to it,” Andrea said. “There isn’t okay? I found out that Chase proposed
to Angel. She had on his ring Andrea. How could you expect me not to drink,”
Mark said. “Fact is, that she had reason to do that Mark. You went back on
everything we discussed,” Andrea said. “I did not. I didn’t cheat on her. That
chick kissed me. She bit my damn neck. She was trying to prove a point to
Angel. Guess she did,” Mark said.
Angel was sitting in the ladies lounge and called Chase. “So how is my
princess,” Angel asked. “Oh she’s doing just fine. She’s playing in the sand on
the beach. We are having a blast, and don’t worry. Getting tons of pictures,”
Chase said. “I’m glad you’re getting some alone time with her Chase. She loves
you so much,” Angel said. “I love her too, but I love her mom more,” Chase
said. “I know Chase. I love you too,” Angel said. “Not enough to leave with me
though right,” Chase said. “Chase, don’t do this now,” Angel said. “Think
about it Angel. Waking up in my arms every morning. Making love then
spending the day with Lila, then falling asleep in my arms after a long night of
making love and romance. That’s what you wanted. I’m handing it to you on a
silver platter Angel. Take it,” Chase said. “Chase,” Angel said. “Me feeling
your soft, silky skin, sliding my hands down between your legs,” he said.
“Chase,” Angel said. “Take care of Lila tonight okay. We’ll talk about this
later,” Angel said. “Horny now aren’t you,” Chase said. Angel hung up.
She headed back to the dining room and found Mark pretty upset. She sat down
at the table. “Mark has something he needs to say Angel,” Andrea said. “Go
ahead baby,” Angel said. “If you are really going to give us a chance, no more
running to Chase. It kills me to think that you run to him. I need you to be 100%
with me. No running off anywhere. Promise me that,” Mark said. “I will Mark.
There’s something I need from you though. I need you to agree that no
intentionally trying to get me pregnant. I need to be able to trust you. Secondly,
I need you to be sober when Lila is awake. No more wine during the day okay,”
Angel said. “Deal,” Mark said. He leaned over to kiss Angel, and she kissed his
cheek. He was taken aback. “I’m going to head back to the hotel. If you need

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anything this week, I am on call. Just a call away,” Andrea said. Mark said
thanks, and Andrea headed off. They had dinner, chatted a while, then headed
back to the house.
“So you didn’t tell me who was looking after Lila,” Mark said. “Just a friend of
mine. Don’t worry. She’s having a blast,” Angel said. Angel went upstairs to
the bedroom and pulled her sweatshirt and track pants on, then sat outside with
Goldie. “Now I know something is wrong. What is up with you Angel,” Mark
said. Angel grabbed one of his cigarettes and lit it, taking a long drag off it. “I
just need time to relax okay,” Angel said. She leaned back. “I’m going to take
Goldie for a walk then,” Mark said. Angel just leaned back and took another
drag off the cigarette. He grabbed it from her hand. “They aren’t good for you,”
he said. He put it out, then headed out with Goldie. Angel just leaned back and
took in the ocean air. Her phone rang. “Miss you,” Chase said. “You know how
close you were to getting caught,” Angel said. “Why,” Chase asked. “He just
left for a walk with Goldie,” Angel replied. They chatted a while, then said good
night and headed to bed.
Angel was fast asleep when Mark came back in. He slid into bed beside her,
wrapping his arms around her torso. “You asleep,” Mark asked. “Sort of,”
Angel said. He kissed her neck. His hands slid under her t-shirt that she was
asleep in. He pulled himself close to her. “Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her
shoulder. “Just curl up with me and get some sleep okay?” Mark slid his hand
down. “Mark, I mean it,” Angel said. “Sure I can’t change your mind,” Mark
asked. “Yes,” Angel said. “I’m exhausted and need some sleep,” Angel said.
“Okay then,” Mark said still holding her close to him. That’s the first time she’d
ever said that to him. He knew something was up right at that moment. “You
sure it’s just tired and not something else you want to tell me,” Mark asked.
“Yes,” Angel said yawning. Mark gave up for the night. He still wondered….
How did she find a babysitter that quickly, and who was it?
The next morning, Angel got up and took Goldie for her walk, then came back to
change before picking Lila up. She came inside to find Mark making breakfast
for them. “How was your run,” Mark asked. “Good. Just going to get showered
and changed,” Angel said heading up the steps. She turned on the shower
letting the hot water bead down on her. All she’d been able to think about
during her morning run was Chase. The thought of Lila waking up to him again.
The thought of Angel being in his arms again. The thought of his lips against…..
she heard the bathroom door open. Angel finished washing her hair and hopped
out of the shower. Mark wrapped a towel around her. He’d just pulled it from
the dryer and it was soft and fluffy. “Thanks,” Angel replied tying it around her
torso. He kissed her, leaning her against the counter of the bathroom. Angel’s
stomach growled. He pushed her onto the counter. “Mark,” Angel said as he

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kissed her neck. He kissed her again to quiet her and slid his robe off. He pulled
her to him, wrapping her legs around him. Angel knew what he wanted. She
reached for the drawer. He pinned her arms behind her. “Mark,” Angel said.
He kissed her. She could feel him against her. She knew what would come next.
He was throbbing against her inner thigh. She got a hand free and grabbed a
condom from the drawer. “Fine,” Mark said. He slid it on and then proceeded
to have sex with her on the counter, against the counter, against the wall.
“Mark,” Angel said. “Tiring you out again am I,” he said picking her up and
carrying her to their bed. “I have to pick Lila up,” Angel said. He kissed her
hard again. “Not yet you don’t,” he said kissing down her torso. He kissed her
hip, then moved to her inner thigh. “Mark. Time out,” Angel said. He kissed
and licked her into another orgasm. His fingers slid into her, as he tried to
arouse her again and again. Everything was out of her control. She tried to get
him to stop, but nothing happened. He got more intense.
Finally, he stopped. He laid on top of her kissing her chest over her heart.
“What has got into you this morning,” Angel asked. “Have to tell you do I,” he
asked. “Unless you and Goldie headed to a strip club last night that has you
super horny,” Angel said. “Don’t need a club like that. I have you,” Mark said.
“Then what’s up with the extreme horniness there Mark,” Angel asked.
“Wanted you all to myself. It’s been a while. Besides. You are the one who is so
horny you can’t stand it,” Mark teased. “Right. I’m the freakin energizer
bunny,” Angel said. He kissed her breast. “Mark, don’t even think it. I have to
pick her up,” Angel said. She felt his hand caress her thigh. She slid out of his
grasp and headed to the bathroom, locking the door behind her. She cleaned up,
then did her makeup and came out to get changed. She grabbed her dress and
shoes from her closet. She felt warm air against her neck. “I have to get changed
Mark. I promised I would be there by 11,” Angel said. “Good thing it’s only 9:30
then,” Mark said. Angel looked at her watch. “Guess you are right. Still, I have
a ton of things to do today,” Angel said. She slid her dress on as Mark slid it up
around her waist. “Would you stop. I have to get dressed,” Angel said. He
kissed her neck, then her shoulder. “No Mark,” Angel said. She pulled the dress
down as he slid his hands over her breasts. “You have lots of time baby,” Mark
said. “Just stop. I need some breakfast anyway. Then I have to get going,” Angel
said. He pulled on his jeans and followed her downstairs.
She walked towards the kitchen and found breakfast all set out for them on the
table. Mark lit the candles. “Why all the extra trimmings,” Angel asked.
“Thought it would be nice for our last breakfast alone for a while,” Mark said.
They had breakfast , then relaxed with some tea. “Had an idea for this afternoon
if you are up for it,” Mark said. “I have a million and one things to do Mark,”
Angel said. “They can wait,” he said. Angel got up and started doing the dishes.
She slipped the dishes into the dishwasher, then finished her tea. “I have to go

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pick her up. We’ll talk about it when I get back,” Angel said. He pulled her
close to him, holding her head in his hands and kissed her. “Hurry back,” he
said. Angel grabbed her cell, purse and keys and left.
There was a knock at Chase’s door. He knew what that meant. He had Lila in
his arms. He opened the door. She was asleep in his arms. He motioned for
Angel to come in, then slipped Lila into her crib and closed the door. “She’s been
up since 7,” Chase said. “So I guess you two had a fun time,” Angel said. He
walked towards Angel. “Definitely, but I can think of one thing that would top
it,” Chase said as he stood not even an inch in front of Angel. His arms wrapped
around her waist and pulled her in closer so she was even closer to him. She was
breathing in and could smell nothing but the intoxicating scent of his cologne.
Oh how she missed the smell of his cologne after they’d made love. He was even
more intoxicating. He kissed her breaking the tension between them. He picked
her up in his arms and carried her to the sofa. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed
her again, silencing her back into his fantasy world. He laid her on the sofa,
laying on top of her between her legs. “We can’t do this Chase. We really can’t,”
Angel said.
He kissed her again sliding the straps from her dress off her shoulders. The feel
of his clean shaven face against her neck caused her to want him even more. She
took in a deep breath, inhaling the smell of his cologne. He kissed her again and
she was at his mercy. The man she craved, the man she dreamt of being with.
Chase pulled her close to him, sliding her dress up her soft, silky legs. “You
know how much I want you right now,” Chase said. He kissed her again, sliding
his hand up her thigh. “Chase. We can’t be doing this,” Angel said. “And why
might that be,” he said kissing her breast. “We…..I….” “Can’t remember right
now right,” Chase said. He kissed her again as his hands reached her backside
and pulled her closer to him. His kiss devoured her lips and the passion grew
between them. Chase reached for the button of his jeans, undoing it and
unzipping his jeans. “Angel. You know how much I love you don’t you,”
Chase said. Angel nodded. “Yes,” she said. “Then you know that I want you all
to myself. Me, you and Lila and that’s all right,” Chase said. “Yes,” Angel said.
“Then you aren’t going to get mad when I tell you I want to make her a little
brother right now,” Chase said. “We,” Angel said. He silenced her with a kiss,
grabbed a condom and slipped it on. “Chase,” Angel said. He made love to her,
holding her in his arms. Every movement drove the passion higher and higher.
“Say yes,” Chase said. “I….can’t,” Angel said. “Please,” Chase said as they
started going faster. “Damn Chase,” Angel said. “Angel,” he said. “I….I
can’t……I can’t Chase,” Angel said. Harder. “Chase,” Angel said. “Say yes,” he
said. “I……Chase…….I…..” She knew what he was thinking. “Say it,” he said.
She knew if she just held off a few more minutes, he wouldn’t be thinking it. A

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minute or two later, she knew he couldn’t hold back anymore. “Chase,” Angel
said. “Damn….feels…..so…….good,” he said. She kissed him and it was over.
“Damn,” he said kissing Angel again. “Chase, you know we can’t give her a
little brother or sister…not now,” Angel said. “You know she’s better off with
me as her dad. She loves me Angel. She doesn’t fuss or anything. Tell me she
doesn’t do that with Mark,” Chase said. “Chase, I love you so much. I do. I
know Lila loves you a lot too. You just have to give things time. Please. It’s only
a few months,” Angel said. “I can’t last that long without you. Don’t you see?
You are the reason for the smile on my face. So is Lila. The two of you make me
happy,” Chase said. “You know I can’t Chase. I promised a real try at this. I
know it doesn’t make sense after all of this. I know it doesn’t, but I have to try.
Just a few months. Then I promise. All yours every day and night forever,”
Angel said. “You know I am holding you to that,” Chase said. “I know. Just
give me some time Chase. I know it will be okay,” Angel said. She went to get
up, and Chase wrapped his arms tight around her, pulling her back into his lap.
“I have to get Lila home,” Angel said. “She’s asleep Angel. You aren’t waking
her,” Chase said. Angel slid her dress back on. “Where are you going,” Chase
asked. “I can’t stay here all day. I have to get back,” Angel said. He got up,
pulling his jeans on. Angel started packing Lila’s things up. He wrapped his
arms around Angel’s waist. “Stay here. I’m only here until 2,” Chase said. “I
can’t Chase,” Angel said. He turned her around to face him. “Just curl up with
me a while. Just you and me,” Chase said. He kissed her and led her to the
bedroom. They curled up on the bed together.
“Remember back to that first time we were alone,” Chase said. “When? You
mean back when we were both in our 20s,” Angel asked. “You know how
awesome that night was don’t you,” Chase said. “The look on your face when
you saw me was priceless,” Angel said. “Was one heck of a surprise,” Chase
said. “I bet it was,” Angel said as they laughed and reminisced on the bed. “It’s
too bad we didn’t get this close before,” Chase said. “Things wouldn’t have been
that much different Chase,” Angel said. “I know, but it would have been
interesting to see where it would have gone if we’d actually dated instead of just
being friends all this time,” Chase said. “Chase, why are we even talking about
this? We are both married. It doesn’t matter what would have been Chase. It
wasn’t. We made decisions and we both have to live with them,” Angel said.
She went to get up and Chase pulled her back into his arms. “You know that I
am so right Angel. You know we were meant to be together. We’ve been best
friends for what seems like forever. How can you possibly deny that,” Chase
asked. “Because we are married to other people Chase and neither of us are
giving them a chance. If Crystal were me, would you be trying to convince me
not to leave or giving up,” Angel asked. “I would be talking you into it every
night,” Chase said. “So why aren’t you fighting for her Chase? You told her at

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one point that you couldn’t imagine life without her. What changed Chase?
What makes you think that someday down the road that it wouldn’t happen to
us too,” Angel asked. She moved over on the bed and sat on the edge, then got
up and headed into the other room to get Lila. “Princess is awake. Hello honey
pie. Time to go home. Say goodbye to Chase,” Angel said. “Don’t go,” Chase
said. “I have to Chase. Remember what I said,” Angel replied. She got the last
of Lila’s things together and headed down to the car. Chase followed behind
her. “Angel,” he said. Angel belted Lila into her car seat, then walked around
the side of the car to hop in. “Angel,” Chase said. “What,” Angel asked. “Don’t
you think I tried to fight for her? I tried everything. Nothing worked. The
romantic dinners, the seduction, the teasing. Nothing worked. I don’t know
how to get her attention, and she obviously doesn’t want to give me any of her
attention. She wants to be with him, and I would rather she be happy away from
me than miserable with me,” Chase said. He kissed her hard, then pulled her
hair out of her ponytail and ran his fingers through it holding her head in his
hands. “I love you. I can’t help how I feel and I refuse to ignore it,” Chase said.
“Fine. I still have to get home Chase. I’ll be back to drive you to the airport,”
Angel said hopping into the car and leaving.
When she got home, Mark was on the sofa. “What took you two so long,” Mark
asked. “Missy here was in the middle of a nap when I got there. We hung out
and had some lemonade for a while and chatted until she got up,” Angel said.
“Ah. So you going to divulge who the babysitter was,” Mark asked. “A friend
of mine that I’ve known for years,” Angel said. “Ah. Have I met this friend,”
Mark asked. “Once or twice,” Angel said. “So why all the mystery then,” Mark
said taking Lila out of Angel’s arms. “Cay mama,” Lila said. “I thought he’d
headed home,” Mark said. “He stayed to look after Lila for us,” Angel said.
“Sure he wasn’t doing it to try to change your mind again,” Mark asked. “Yes
Mark. He couldn’t change it if he tried,” Angel said. Mark kissed her, then he
put Lila in her playpen. “You sure about that,” Mark asked. He was directly
behind her. She turned around and was nose to nose with him. “Positive,”
Angel said. He kissed her again then pulled her into his arms and held her.
“Good, because he should know that I’m not letting go without one hell of a
fight,” Mark said. He kissed Angel again, then headed into his office to get some
work done.
When he came out an hour or so later, he had a smile on his face. Angel was
organizing a few things. “So ready for our afternoon of fun,” Mark asked. “I
have to stop at the grocery store on the way home, but sure,” Angel said. “Miss
Lila ready,” Mark said walking over to her. He picked her up, then took her
upstairs for a quick change, then they headed out. “Where are we going
anyway,” Angel asked. “You’ll see when we get there,” Mark said. He headed
in a direction that somehow seemed familiar to Angel. When he pulled into the

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marina, she knew just what he had planned. Angel’s phone buzzed. It was a
text from Chase.
Heading to airport. Took cab. Call me. Want to hear that voice
before I leave - C
Angel smiled. “Good text,” Mark asked. “Just a confirmation for an
appointment tomorrow,” Angel said. “Ah,” Mark replied pulling into the
marina. “Mama,” Lila said. “Yes baby,” Angel replied. “Up,” Lila said. Mark
parked the car, then Angel got Lila out of the back seat. Mark walked around to
the back of the car and grabbed 3 bags from the trunk. “What might those be,”
Angel asked. “Nothing for you to be concerned with,” Mark replied. He walked
down towards the boats, then handed the bags to his friend. “Now where might
we be going Mark,” Angel asked. “Just have a seat. We should be there in an
hour or two,” Mark said. Angel’s hunch was probably right. Mark came up to
where Lila and Angel were sitting and handed Angel a glass of champagne, and
handed Lila some water. Angel put sunscreen on Lila, then leaned back and
relaxed. “Bathing suit is in the bag,” Mark said. She turned around and he was
in his shorts. “Watch Lila then,” Angel said. He sat down to play with Lila
while Angel changed into her bathing suit. She quickly called Chase while she
was out of earshot.
“Was wondering when I was going to get that return call,” Chase said. “I’m out
with Mark and Lila. We’re heading to the cottage,” Angel said. “I thought about
what you said. Still, you know that I have been in love with you forever. Things
are totally different between you and me now than they ever were before. I
talked to Crystal, and we are going to try to work on things. I’m trying to do
what you asked, but I am telling you it won’t change how I feel about you,”
Chase said. “Okay. End of May. Last day. Remember,” Angel said. “Love you
too,” Chase said. Angel laughed. “Still wish you were here. Mile high club and
all,” Chase said. “Would you,” Angel said. They laughed then said goodbye
and hung up. Angel came back up and sat down with Lila and Mark.
The boat headed off to the island slowly and calmly. Lila was having fun and
giggling. “Fishy,” Lila said pointing at the water. A dolphin was just ahead of
them. “Dolphin,” Angel said. Lila laughed. “She’s just learning a million things
isn’t she,” Mark said. “Definitely. She is going to be a little smarty pants soon
enough,” Angel said. “She already is aren’t you Lila,” Mark said. He tickled Lila
and the laughter brought a smile to Angel’s face. He was back to being the man
she knew all that time ago. The one filled with romance, kindness, compassion,
sensitivity. The one who put everyone first. Maybe there was a possibility.

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By the time they got to shore again, Lila was napping and Angel and Mark were
relaxing on the deck. “Today is the perfect day for this,” Mark said. “So we are
going to the cottage. Why are you acting like you have more surprises,” Angel
asked teasingly. “Don’t know what you are in for do you,” Mark teased back.
“Well, I do know we are in for a day filled with playing with Lila,” Angel joked.
“And me playing with you,” Mark said quietly in Angel’s ear. A smirk came
across her face. They both headed downstairs and got their things together.
Angel got Lila changed, then they headed for the cottage.
When they headed into the cottage, there were a few changes. Mark had put a
room together for Lila, and put Lilacs and roses in vases throughout. “Like your
surprise,” Mark asked. “Smells so good,” Angel said. “What’s that,” Lila said
looking down the hall to her room. “Why don’t I show you,” Mark said. He
walked down the hallway with Lila and brought her into her room. He’d turned
a boring room into something made for a little princess. There were teddy bears,
and dolls for Lila to play with. “Mine,” Lila asked. “All yours baby,” Mark said.
Lila half crawled, half walked over to the large teddy bear. “It’s bigger than she
is,” Angel laughed. She curled up in the teddy’s arms. “Teddy,” Lila said. “Yes
baby,” Mark said. The entire place had been child-proofed. “Now when did you
have the time to do all this,” Angel asked as they watched Lila play with her
toys. “Got a decorator friend of mine to do it. I had the flowers sent over this
morning,” Mark replied. “Full of surprises aren’t you,” Angel said. He kissed
her and wrapped his arms around her. “Always,” he said. “Come outside,”
Mark said. Angel grabbed Lila and they headed outside. They sat down
together and had some lunch. “So what’s with the bags Mark? What else does
that crazy mind have planned,” Angel asked. “Was thinking maybe a little boat
trip,” Mark said. “What about work Mark? We can’t just disappear,” Angel
said. “Since your work thinks you are taking a week off, yes we can,” Mark
replied. “What about Goldie,” Angel asked. “Andy and Aubrey are taking care
of her. Anything else you wanted to know,” Mark asked as he leaned in and
kissed Angel. “Just what did you pack,” Angel said. “Bikinis, a dress or two,
shorts, skirts. A little of everything, then practically everything for Lila,” Mark
said. “When did you plan this little surprise,” Angel asked. “While you were
out this morning,” Mark said. Angel smiled. “Figures,” she said laughing.
They spent the afternoon at the cottage, then tucked Lila into bed after dinner
and had some alone time. As Angel was about to sit down, her cell phone rang.
“Hello,” Angel said. “I’m home,” Chase said. “Give me one minute,” Angel
said. She headed into the house and into the bedroom. “I tried calling you at
home, but there was no answer. Where are you,” Chase asked. “Cottage,” Angel
replied. “Decided to get you away from civilization again did he,” Chase asked.
“Of course,” Angel replied. “I still want you. Was fantasizing about it all the
way home. You know how hot it made me,” Chase said. “I can just guess,”

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Angel said. “You sure I can’t change your mind,” Chase asked. “I’m sure. I
have to go,” Angel said. “I love you,” Chase said. “You too,” Angel replied. She
hung up and headed back outside to sit with Mark. “Have you all to myself
now,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. Her phone buzzed. She looked and it was a
picture message. She opened her phone to see it. She quickly closed it and
turned the phone off. “Now where were we,” Angel said. “Picture message
from Chase,” Mark asked. “No. Was a message from my boss. It said have
fun,” Angel said trying to cover her ass. “Good. Now I finally have you all to
myself,” Mark said. He pulled her into his arms. “So what do you think of my
idea,” Mark asked. “Why don’t we just hang here for a day or two then go
home,” Angel said. “No water travel eh,” Mark said. “Just easier to be contacted
if anything happens at home or work when we can get a phone signal,” Angel
said. “Don’t need a signal. We are both off for the week. No disturbances,”
Mark said. “Still, would be easier to take care of Lila on land,” Angel said. She
didn’t want to be un-contactable. She needed an excuse to get home period.
“Four days,” Mark said. “Including today. Fine. So long as we are home on
Thursday,” Angel said. Mark kissed her. “I have all I need right here anyway,”
Mark said. Angel yawned. “Tired,” he asked. Angel nodded. “Let me tuck you
in then,” Mark said. He kissed her then they headed inside. Angel went and
grabbed a glass of water, saved the picture Chase had sent her on her cell in the
private and password protected folder, then deleted the text message. She
turned her phone back off and headed to bed.
She slid into bed with Mark and laid her head down. His arm wrapped around
her torso, pulling his body close to hers. “Now that I have you all to myself,” he
said. Angel yawned. “Oh no you don’t,” he joked. “I really am tired,” Angel
said. Her skin got goose bumps at his touch. “Not too tired to be horny though I
see,” Mark teased gently kissing her neck and causing more goose bumps.
“Mark, just one night of sleep. That’s all I ask,” Angel said. His hand slid down
her tanned torso. “Have to do one thing first,” he said. She linked her fingers
with his and tried to stop his hand from moving down. She slid his hand up to
her breast as she felt him react. There was no way she was getting to sleep. She
could feel how horny this was making him. His hand slid down to her leg and
pulled it over his. “Mark, you know what I am going to tell you,” Angel said. “I
still don’t see why, but okay,” he said as he reached over and grabbed something
from the drawer. She heard him put it on, then he pulled her towards him again.
He went slowly at first. He kissed her over and over until they were caught up
in the kiss. That’s the one thing he’d loved about her. The way she kissed was
what made him love her even more. She was so passionate – so endearing. He
knew after the first kiss so long ago that she was his. He didn’t want anyone else
ever experiencing that kiss. It pulled him into her passion and romance filled
world. He would do anything to hold onto it – anything. He made love to Angel

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slowly, cherishing every movement, every thrust, every moan from her lips. He
turned her over, laying her flat on her back and continued. Her legs pulled him
close to her. He kissed her again, then trailed his kisses to her breasts, now
covered in goose bumps. He couldn’t hold back anymore. Every movement
they made pushed him closer and closer to orgasm. Angel’s muscles tightened
telling him she was coming too. He kissed her again and with one last thrust it
was over. He refused to leave her arms. “Told you so,” Mark said. “Told you so
what,” Angel asked. “Horny,” he replied. Angel laughed and he kissed her
again. “I could do this all day long,” Mark said. “What’s that,” Angel said as his
arms wrapped around her. “Kiss you,” he replied. He kissed her again, then
kissed her neck, ear lobe, chest. “If you are doing what I think you are doing, we
both need sleep,” Angel said. He moved back up and kissed her breasts, then
her lips. “I love you,” Mark said. “Love you too,” Angel said. He slid out of bed
and into the bathroom. Angel rolled onto her side and curled up in the blankets.
When Mark slipped back into bed, he wrapped his arms around her and curled
up next to her, falling fast asleep. All he dreamt of was having more kids with
Angel. The vacations, the secluded nights they would sneak away for. In his
eyes, everything was better now. Back to the way it should have been. Better
than ever.
Angel opened her eyes, the minute he was asleep. She reached for her phone
and turned it onto vibrate. She sent Chase a text message.
You can’t be sending pics like that. Could give a girl a heart
attack. Miss and love you too. XOXO
She pressed send and put the phone in the drawer. A few minutes later, it
buzzed.
XOXO times a million. Wish I were there next to you.
Angel smiled then replied.
Will call you when I get back in a few days. No more calls no
matter how much I miss you okay?
She pressed send and turned the phone off, sliding it back into the drawer. She
curled back up with Mark, who pulled her closer to him, then drifted off to sleep.
All she could dream about was Mark finding out about her and Chase. She had
made up her mind though. Even though she loved Chase, she had to dedicate

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the next few months to really trying with Mark. He wasn’t just her husband. He
was her friend – her lover. She’d made him a promise and had no intention of
breaking it. She dreamt about being pregnant again. Carrying Chase’s baby, and
sharing her life with him. What happened in her dreams was safe from Mark’s
eyes. He never had to know. She wished things were different with Mark. That
it could be as simple as it was with Chase. She slept soundly that night,
dreaming of being in Chase’s arms again.

350. 2
Chapter 39
Angel got up the next morning and checked on Lila. She was out like a light.
Angel pulled on her workout gear and grabbed her cell and ipod, and headed
out for a run. She left a note for Mark.
She jogged all the way down to the dock. She paused to look out at the ocean
surrounding her. Anyone else would be enjoying this time, but all she could
think of was getting home. She wasn’t in the mood for a vacation. She headed
back, the long way, and wandered into the house. Mark was up with Lila,
playing in her room. “Mama,” Lila said turning around. Lila always knew when
Mom was sneaking up on her. “Hi princess,” Angel said. Mark got up and
kissed Angel. “Just going to hop into the shower. Be right back,” Angel said.
“Mama, up,” Lila said. “I’ll be right back baby,” Angel said. She hopped into
the shower, got cleaned up, then pulled on another pair of shorts and a t-shirt,
then headed back into Lila’s room. “Mama,” Lila said. Angel picked her up, and
Mark kissed them both. “Breakfast,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. “Miss me did
you,” Angel said to Lila. She nodded. She wrapped her arms around Angel.
Angel sat down with Lila and Mark at the table and enjoyed a nice relaxing
breakfast. Mark had laid out fruit for breakfast - Pomello, Mango, Pineapple and
Banana. “I know what you are thinking Mark. Answer is no,” Angel said. “Lila
loves all these fruits,” Mark joked. “Sure that’s why,” Angel said. “So what
would you think of a day of fishing,” Mark asked. “Why not,” Angel said. She
knew it would be one way of making the day go by faster.
After breakfast, Angel slipped on her bikini, put sunscreen on her, Lila and Mark
and they headed for the boat. Angel brought a few toys for Lila. When she
stepped onto the boat, Mark’s friend appeared. “Was wondering when we were
heading out,” he said. “Just staying around here,” Mark said. “Sure,” he replied.
Angel laid down at the front of the boat with Lila, while Mark and his friend
chatted. “Forgot something at the cottage,” Mark said. He headed back up to
the cottage. He came down and handed something to his friend. “We all ready,”
he asked. Lila was playing with her toys, and Angel was relaxing with her book.
“Sure,” Angel said. They headed off. Angel looked around at the scenery. She
noticed they were heading south – and fast. “Mark, where exactly were you
thinking of fishing that we have to go this fast to get to,” Angel asked. He kissed
her. “You better not be thinking what I think you are,” Angel said. He sat down
with Lila. “Look,” Lila said. She’d fed her doll. “You’re going to be just like
mommy someday,” Mark said. Angel just leaned back and enjoyed the
sunshine.
A few hours later, the boat slowed down. Angel looked to her left. “I thought
we were staying at the cottage tonight,” Angel said. Mark kissed her and took

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Lila to the cabin for a nap. When he came back up, he walked over to Angel.
“Mark, you promised,” Angel said. “Something I thought we needed to do
over,” Mark said. He kissed Angel. “We are going home tomorrow morning
Mark. No other trips. Got me,” Angel said. He kissed her again and laid down
on top of her. “I got surprises for you that you don’t even know about,” Mark
said. The boat pulled into the dock. “I bet you I know one of them,” Angel said.
“One night here. We will head back tomorrow. Just wanted one night of fun,”
Mark said. “We could have done this closer to home you know,” Angel said. He
kissed her. “Wanted one last shot at our beach,” Mark said. Angel tried to sneak
a peek. “Tell me you didn’t,” Angel said. He kissed her again and he got up to
his feet and pulled her into his arms. She looked out at the land. They were at
Turtle Island. Angel knew why he was trying this. He was trying to win her
over again. To make sure she knew just how much he loved her. Angel headed
down to the cabin, and Mark followed her. Lila was still asleep. Mark kissed
Angel. “Let her sleep a while. We can sit on the beach,” Mark said. “Who’s
going to make sure she’s okay,” Angel asked. “I’ll take care of the little one.
When she wakes up, I’ll let you know,” Mark’s friend said. “Plenty of experience
with the babies. Got 3 of my own.” “Thanks,” Angel said. Angel put her things
together, and by the time they were about to step off the boat, Lila was up.
“Mama,” she said. Angel picked her up and brought her out to the beach. Mark
put their things in the cabin, then met them on the sand. Lila was making a
castle in the sand. Mark came over, handing Angel a glass of lemonade, and Lila
her sippy cup of water. “Was a good idea wasn’t it,” Mark said. “It really is
beautiful here,” Angel said. “At least it will be good memories this time,” Mark
said. “Was last time too,” Angel said. “Was right before you sprung the
wedding surprise on me.” “Very true,” Mark replied. “So what’s the surprise
this time,” Angel asked. “You’ll see later,” Mark said. Angel checked her watch.
“She must be starved,” Angel said. “It’s only 6:30,” Mark said. “And her dinner
time is 5:30,” Angel said. He grabbed her food from the baby bag and warmed it
up in the cottage for her. Angel fed Lila while she played with her toys in the
sand.
After Lila finished dinner, Angel took her for a quick swim/bath in the ocean,
then tucked her into the crib. When she came outside, Mark had got dinner set
up for the two of them on the patio. They had a beautiful bottle of Angel’s
favorite wine, lobster tails and seafood. “Really are full of surprises aren’t you,”
Angel asked. “Knew they were your faves,” Mark said. They relaxed over
dinner, then sat down by the water and finished off their second bottle of wine.
“You really don’t think we should have another baby do you,” Mark said. “Not
now. I want to enjoy the peace and quiet we have,” Angel replied. She thought
it was a much better answer – kinder. Angel leaned back into his arms and
watched the sunset. “You know you are late though right,” Mark said. “No.
Actually, I’m not,” Angel said. “What do you mean,” Mark asked. “What do

352. 2
you think I mean,” Angel asked. “Oh. Well then,” he said. “I know you are
hoping Mark, but I want to enjoy what we have right now before we add another
baby into the mix,” Angel said. “I guess you are right. With two our hands
would constantly be full,” Mark said. “And these little trips would be even
harder,” Angel said. He kissed her neck. “Here’s a question for you. Do you
love me,” Mark asked. “Now where is all this coming from Mark? Are you
worried,” Angel asked. “Yes. Now answer,” he said. “Yes,” Angel said. “How
much,” Mark asked. Angel turned to face him. “Why are you so worried Mark?
I’m not going anywhere,” Angel said. “I know who was at that hotel Angel. I
know Chase was there. Did you,” Mark asked. “Firstly, why were you snooping
at the hotel. Secondly, so what if he was there. He was in town for a meeting. I
bumped into him after my dinner meeting,” Angel said. “Did you sleep with
him,” Mark asked. “You know how crazy you are to even think it right,” Angel
said. “Yes or no,” Mark asked. “We fell asleep talking, but sex, no,” Angel
replied. “So if you were pregnant, we wouldn’t have to worry that it was
Chase’s,” Mark said. “Now where did that come from,” Angel said. “Ever since
you showed up with him, I wondered. I knew he was the one that looked after
Lila. She did nothing but talk about him,” Mark said. “Fact is, I am married to
you. That’s all that matters. Chase and I are good friends. He cares about me,
and if things were different, who knows. Fact is, I chose to be with you and you
chose to be with me. That’s all there is to it,” Angel said. Mark kissed her, as she
leaned back into the sand.
“So you are all mine. I don’t have to share you or out do him,” Mark asked.
“Depends,” Angel said. “On,” Mark asked. “Just how were you trying to do
that,” Angel said. He kissed her and pulled her close to him. His lips and
tongue devoured her from her lips, to her neck, to her breasts that perked at his
touch. “I crave this you know,” Mark said. He stared into her eyes. He slid her
bikini top off then moved lower. He kissed her stomach, her hips then moved in
between her legs. “Shit Mark,” Angel said. He teased her with his tongue and
fingers. She couldn’t help but let go. Everything he did, made her more and
more turned on. He knew her. He knew the exact move he needed to make. He
moved back up towards her lips and kissed her passionately. He pulled her into
his lap, wrapping her legs around him and sliding the bottoms to her bikini off.
He kissed her hard as she knew what was about to happen next. He carried her
into their bedroom, laying her flat on the bed. “So all mine,” he said. “Always
was,” Angel said. “So you saying that when you and Chase were in the house
alone all that time and you told me you two were together, you didn’t mean it,”
Mark said. “We were alone together. Nothing else,” Angel said. “Never other
than at the bar,” Mark asked. “Why are you doing this Mark? Talk to me,”
Angel said. “Because you have. I know you have. I know he’s felt how good it
feels to fuck you. I know he’s slept in you, not just beside you,” Mark said. “You
know you are acting crazy right,” Angel said. “And I intend to make you forget

353. 2
about it,” Mark said. “Mark,” Angel said. He pulled his shorts off and laid
down next to Angel. “You wonder how I will pull that off don’t you,” Mark
asked. “Nope,” Angel replied. He kissed her hard, and pulled her against him.
Angel heard her phone ring. Mark pinned her hands to the bed. One kiss led to
two, two to four, etc. They made love that night, for what seemed like hours,
then curled up together on the bed, still tangled together. “So,” Mark said. “So,
if that’s what you think you need to do to get him off my mind,” Angel joked.
“Still on your mind is he,” Mark said. “No, but damn. Should have him on my
mind more often,” Angel joked. Mark wrapped his arms tight around Angel and
kissed her shoulder. “No you shouldn’t. You should have me on your mind,”
Mark said as his hands caressed her breasts.
That night, they fell asleep, and Angel was trapped in Mark’s grasp. Once he
was out cold, Angel got up and cleaned up and checked her cell phone. It was
Chase.
Hope he isn’t seducing you. Doesn’t he know you want me? Want
you so bad. Laying in our bed. Can still smell your perfume on the
pillow. XOXO
Angel deleted the message and slid back into bed. Mark instantly wrapped his
leg and arms around her. “No more getting up. Rest. You’ll need your energy,”
Mark teased. Angel was asleep in minutes.
She woke up the next morning, and Lila was in bed with them. She’d fallen
asleep on Mark’s chest during the night. Angel turned and looked at Mark and
Lila curled up together. She grabbed her cell and took a picture. Both of them
slept through it. Angel slid out of bed and slipped on her shorts and tank to
head out for her jog. The minute Lila heard the runners touch the ground, she
woke up. “Mama,” Lila said. Angel slid her out of Mark’s arms, as he rolled
over and went back to sleep. Angel changed Lila and got her dressed, slipping
some sunscreen on both herself and Lila, and headed outside. She gave Lila
some breakfast, and by the time she was finished eating, Mark was up. “Num,”
Lila said. “Well, good to know she enjoyed breakfast,” Mark said kissing Angel.
“Was just going to go for a quick jog,” Angel said. “Coffee is coming, and
breakfast is on the counter for you.” Mark kissed Angel again. “No jog. To
bed,” Mark said. “I’ll be back in 30 minutes,” Angel said. “Nope. To bed I
said,” Mark replied. “We can’t leave Lila by herself,” Angel said. There was a
knock on the door to the cabin. “Good morning Mr. Scott. Is Lila ready,” the
woman asked. “Yep. She just had some breakfast. See you around 2,” Mark
said as the woman came in and left with Lila. “Who is that,” Angel asked.
“Babysitter,” Mark said. “You let a stranger walk off with Lila,” Angel said.

354. 2
“No. She is part of the kid camp. She thought Lila might enjoy playing with the
other kids. They are going out to the beach for a while,” Mark said. “Oh,” Angel
replied. “Which means we have all day to spend in bed,” Mark replied picking
Angel up and carrying her back to bed. “Now, as I said before, to bed,” Mark
said kissing Angel. “Not even a little jog,” Angel said. “Trust me. You don’t
need it,” he said laying her on the bed.
“Mark. Tell me we aren’t spending our one day in paradise cooped up in our
room,” Angel said. Mark kissed her sliding her shorts off. “Good enough
answer,” he said kissing her again. He slid her tank top off, then she kicked off
her runners. “Seriously though. I want to enjoy the sunshine,” Angel said as he
kissed her chest. “That could be arranged,” Mark said. “Not exactly what I
meant,” Angel said. He leaned his body against her as she felt him slide his
boxers off. “Mark,” Angel said. “Won’t take the chance,” he asked. “What do
you think,” Angel said. He kissed her again holding her tight in his arms. She
could feel every muscle against her skin. He felt so good. She was so happy at
that moment. Everything was back to the way it used to be. To the way it used
to feel when they were together – when they were happy and nothing could tear
them apart. He kissed her all over, then kissed her lips again, devouring her
with one kiss. He made love to her, slowly, gently. He took his time and did
everything right. He made her feel like everything was okay again. Like she had
no reason to distrust him.
He held her in his arms. “You know why I wanted to come here right,” Mark
asked. “To start over for real this time,” Angel said. It’s like she could finish his
thoughts. “This was where everything was perfect. I had to do something,”
Mark said. “You know you worry too much,” Angel said as he pulled her closer
to him. “Really,” he said. He knew something she didn’t. That chance that she
said she didn’t want to take, was taken. By no fault of his own, subconsciously
he had not used anything. He hoped she wouldn’t notice. “Got quiet in here.
Everything okay,” Angel asked as she linked fingers with him. “Yep,” Mark
said. “I have my wife all to myself. How could anything go wrong?” “And you
didn’t do what I asked, but I don’t think I’ll hold it against you today,” Angel
said. She knew. Don’t ask him how, but he thought she was reading his mind.
“I didn’t do it on purpose,” Mark said. “I know. It’s fine,” Angel said.
Somehow, the resort had mellowed Angel. He kissed her cheek. “Next time
though,” Angel said. “Promise,” he replied. “That is unless….” “You don’t give
up on that do you,” Angel said. “The idea of being with you forever? Hell no,”
Mark replied. Angel laughed. He turned her face to meet his and kissed her
again. “Missed this,” Mark said. She turned towards him and he held her in his
arms. “Not letting you go…..ever,” Mark said kissing Angel.

355. 2
A while later, they got dressed and headed out to the water. They joked around
on the beach the rest of the morning, then met up with the babysitter and Lila by
the pool. “Well hello there princess,” Angel said as Lila turned towards her.
“Mama,” Lila said with a grin ear to ear. She started to crawl over to Angel, then
managed to stand herself up and walk a few steps right into Angel’s arms. “You
know how smart you are? My little genius,” Angel said. Lila giggled and put
her head on Angel’s shoulder. “Dada,” Lila said as Mark walked over to them.
Lila kissed his cheek. “Well thank you beautiful,” he said. They headed back to
the cabin, and relaxed on their little piece of beach. Lila went for a nap, then
Mark had Angel all to himself again. They relaxed outside on the beach for a
while in silence. It’s what they both needed, but Mark had other ideas. “Let me
put the sunscreen on your back for you,” Mark said. Angel handed it to him as
he rubbed the lotion on her back.
His hands slid around her torso, then up to her breasts, sliding her bikini top off.
“Want to make sure I didn’t miss any spots,” Mark said. Angel kissed him. “I
think you got them all,” Angel said. She leaned back on her towel. “Ooh. That
one spot needs some attention,” Mark teased. “Which spot might that be,” Angel
teased. “One that got missed by the sunscreen,” Mark said. He moved over to
her and kissed her stomach, then kissed and teased her breasts. He leaned in to
kiss Angel and heard Lila wake up. “She has good timing doesn’t she,” Angel
joked. He didn’t want to let go. “You know she’s just tossing and turning,”
Mark said kissing Angel’s neck. She quieted back down. “You know she’s
awake,” Angel said. “Bet ya. If she is, we relax on our little patio. If I’m right,
then I get what I want,” Mark teased. Angel kissed him. “Deal,” she said. Angel
went into the cabin and Lila was awake and playing with her teddy bear. “Told
ya,” Angel joked. They brought Lila outside with them, and they all relaxed
outside. “Don’t want to leave now do you,” Mark asked. “It is nice and relaxing,
but I think we should head home Mark,” Angel said. “One more day,” Mark
said. “I have to admit, it’s tempting, but there are a million things we need to do
at home Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her. “And a million things we need to do
here,” he said. He moved over to Angel’s towel and kissed her. “Think of all the
fun we could have,” Mark said. “We can’t stay here forever Mark. We have to
go,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “Just going to keep doing that until I
change my mind aren’t you,” Angel said. Mark nodded. He kissed her again, as
he devoured her lips with his. “Okay. One more day. Then we are heading
home tomorrow night no excuses,” Angel said. “Then I guess I should get her to
babysit a while tomorrow too,” Mark said as he slid his hands down Angel’s
back. “You know how silly you are,” Angel said. He kissed her again.
“Definitely,” he replied.

356. 2
Chapter 40
Angel got up the next morning and managed to sneak out for a run down the
beautiful beach. The beach had perfect white sand, there wasn’t a cloud in the
beautiful blue sky, an the water was a beautiful blue. It was beautiful. She
almost couldn’t imagine going home, but Angel knew that they had to get back.
Things couldn’t stay like a fairytale forever. Every fairytale needs some reality or
else you would never believe it. She headed back and found Mark out on their
patio with Lila. “Was wondering where you snuck out to,” Mark said coming
towards Angel. He kissed her. “Just wanted to go for a run and take in all the
scenery,” Angel said. “Lila had her breakfast and the babysitter should be here
around 10 or so,” Mark said. Lila was playing with her bear in the sand.
“Maybe we should get out and do something all together this afternoon. It is our
last day,” Angel said. Mark kissed her hard. “You’re going to be busy this
afternoon,” Mark said. “What might you have planned oh master of surprises,”
Angel said. He kissed her neck and headed back inside the cabin. “Well then.
Why don’t we go and jump into the water,” Angel said. Lila giggled as Angel sat
down to play with her. Once they were covered in sand, Angel slid her shorts
and tank top off, revealing her bikini, and headed into the water with Lila. Mark
could hear them giggling from the cabin. A little while later, they headed back
inside and dried off. Angel changed Lila, and got her ready for the day. By the
time she was all changed, the babysitter was at the door. Angel put some
sunscreen on Lila, then handed her over. “See you around 3,” she said. Angel
and Mark gave Lila kisses goodbye, then headed back out to the patio.
Angel heard a popping noise. She turned around and Mark handed her a glass
of champagne. “And what might we be celebrating,” Angel asked. “Another
day alone,” Mark said. He kissed Angel as he sat down on the end of her chaise.
She wrapped her legs around his waist. “And just what might you have planned
to do today,” Angel asked. She sipped her champagne. He kissed her hard,
holding her against him. “So I see you have the same thing planned as
yesterday,” Angel said. “Not quite, but partially yes,” Mark said. He pulled her
into his lap and kissed her again. Angel leaned back in the chaise, sipping her
champagne. “Breakfast first,” Angel said. He got up and took her hand leading
her to the table. “Breakfast,” Mark said. All of Angel’s favorites. “And what
might I ask is the special occasion this morning,” Angel asked. He handed her a
plate. When she looked at it there was a small box on it. “What’s this,” Angel
asked. “Almost anniversary gift,” Mark said. “You know you don’t have to buy
me things to make me happy don’t you,” Angel said. “Open it,” he replied. She
opened it and found a pair of diamond stud earrings in a heart shape. “They’re
beautiful Mark,” Angel said. “I thought you might like them. I know how tough
I have been to deal with this year, and I apologize for being such an idiot. I
know that you love me, but sometimes I make it a little more difficult than

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normal. I love you. Always have and always will,” Mark said. He kissed Angel
then they curled up together on the chaise and had breakfast. “I guess your plan
worked,” Angel said. “What’s that,” Mark replied. “Your plan to get things
back to the way they used to be,” Angel said. “Ah that one,” Mark joked. “Did it
work?” “Getting there,” Angel said. He kissed her. “We could leave this
afternoon to get home if you wanted to. I wanted some alone time away from
the cell phones and email. Just you and me. I want us to work baby. Really,”
Mark said. “We’ll see,” Angel replied. He kissed her again. “Have to talk you
into it don’t I,” Mark asked. “Nope,” Angel said. He took the plate and put it
on the side table and Angel slid into his lap. “Now about that afternoon of fun,”
Angel said. “Yes,” he replied. “In the water Mr. Scott. Now,” Angel said. She
got up and ran for the water. He dove in behind her. “This is what we needed,”
Mark said to himself as he swam right into her arms.
Around 2 or so, Angel got everything packed up and loaded on the boat, then
they headed off to pick Lila up. She was asleep under the umbrella on the beach.
Angel picked her up and Lila wrapped her arms around Angel’s neck. Mark
took care of the bill and Angel got Lila settled in her bed on the boat. When
Angel came back up, Mark was hopping onto the boat with some fresh lilac.
“Thought you might want some,” Mark said handing her the bouquet. She
kissed him. “Thank you baby,” Angel said. She put it in some water and came
back up to sit with Mark. They headed home. A few hours of relaxation and sun
and they were pulling into their dock. Angel went down and got Lila, who had
just woken up, then they headed to the car. “So wishing we’d stayed another
night,” Mark said. Angel kissed him and turned her cell phone on – 5 messages.
All of them were from Chase. Angel listened to one after another. He was
panicked that she was going to stay with Mark.
They took the scenic route back to the house, grabbing some dinner for
themselves on the way home. They pulled into the driveway and Angel got Lila
settled in the house in her playpen. She helped Mark unpack a bit, then warmed
up dinner for them as they sat out on their patio. Angel fed Lila, then a short
while later, Lila was out like a light. Mark took Lila in and tucked her into bed.
Angel’s cell phone rang. She looked at the call display. “Hey Chase,” Angel
said. “Where the hell have you been? I’ve been trying to get in touch with you
for 3 days,” Chase said. “We were on vacation,” Angel replied. “Tell me he
didn’t talk you into staying with him. God tell me he didn’t,” Chase said.
“Would you cut it out? We had a nice vacation. I think it was definitely
needed,” Angel said. “He take you somewhere that your damn cell didn’t work?
Why didn’t you call me back,” Chase said. “I just got the message an hour and a
bit ago. We just finished dinner,” Angel said. “I lost you to him didn’t I,” Chase
asked. “You have to stop this. Seriously,” Angel said. “I guess you made your
damn decision then,” Chase said. “I already told you. Three months,” Angel

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said. “I can’t wait that long. I need to know. Do you want him or me,” Chase
asked. Mark came back downstairs and out onto the patio. “I’ll talk to you
about this later,” Angel said. “Just say you want me. Say you want me in your
life, in your bed. Say it,” Chase said. “I do okay. I’ll call you tomorrow,” Angel
said. “Tell him,” Chase said. Angel hung up.
Mark walked over to Angel, refilling her glass of wine and curled up on the
chaise with her. “So who was on the phone,” Mark asked. “One of my friends
wondering why we disappeared for a few days. Told her we needed a mini
vacation,” Angel said. Mark kissed her. “You are right. We did need it,” Mark
said. They relaxed on the chaise for a while watching the sunset, then the stars.
Silence. She was curled up in his arms. This is what he’d always wanted. The
woman he loved more than anything beside him under the stars. Never really
mattered where they were. He wanted her near him, and he would do almost
anything to hold onto it – Anything.
They headed up to bed early that night. “You’ve been quiet all night,” Mark said.
“Just thinking,” Angel replied. She slipped on her lilac satin teddy, then slipped
into bed. He slid into bed next to her and pulled her into his arms. “Now what
could you possibly be thinking about that would make you this quiet,” Mark
asked. “Just something my friend said,” Angel replied as she turned out the
light. “And what friend might that be,” Mark asked. “Not really that
important,” Angel replied. “Chase,” Mark said. Angel said nothing, and Mark
knew he was right. “You telling me that after the past few days of just us and
everything being practically perfect, that one conversation with him can get you
thinking like this,” Mark asked. “Just something he said,” Angel said. “Such
as,” Mark asked sitting up on the side of the bed. “He asked me if I wanted him
in my life or not,” Angel replied. “And? Do you,” Mark asked. Angel was
quiet. “Well?” “As my friend and Lila’s godfather, yes,” Angel said. “So
nothing else,” Mark said. “I don’t know Mark. I don’t think so,” Angel said.
She slid out of bed and grabbed her satin robe, tying the belt around her waist.
“Where are you going,” Mark asked. “Air,” Angel replied.
She headed downstairs and poured herself a large glass of wine, then sat outside.
She grabbed one of Mark’s cigarettes and lit it, then leaned back on the chaise.
She had to get past this and make a decision once and for all. Now she was more
torn than she was before. Everything was so much better with her and Mark. So
much easier and simpler. The moment she’d heard Chase’s voice again, she’d
remembered all of their memories. All the time that they had both spent getting
closer and closer. Angel leaned her head back and finished the cigarette, then
sipped her wine. Her cell phone rang. She looked at the caller. Only one person
would call this late.

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“Angel,” Chase said. “What Chase,” she replied. “Tell me that you told him,”
he said. “I told him what you asked me. I told him that I want you in my life,”
Angel said. “And,” Chase asked. “And he said okay,” Angel replied. “You told
him you wanted me in your life and in your bed and to be your lover and he said
okay,” Chase said. “I told him I wanted you in my life period,” Angel said.
“You are backing out,” Chase said. “Chase, why can’t you let me just make my
own decision? Why do you have to stress me about this,” Angel said. “Because.
I want what’s right for you. That’s why. I am the one you should be with
period. I want us to have a baby together. To start over just the two of us.
What’s wrong with that,” Chase said. “Firstly, I am married. Secondly, so are
you,” Angel said. “Legally separated thank you,” Chase said. Angel went quiet.
“Tell me you didn’t do that so we could be together Chase. Tell me I wasn’t the
reason,” Angel said. “You were part of it. I can’t be with her when I can’t trust
her and she is still screwing my friend. I can’t. I want to be with you forever
Angel. I want us to be together…in our little house overlooking the lake. Long
walks to the beach….picnics in the park. The whole thing,” Chase said. “I can’t
do this Chase. I can’t just walk away from Mark. I love him. I do. He’s Lila’s
daddy. I made a promise to be with him. Things really have changed,” Angel
said. “You don’t love me,” Chase asked. “Of course I do,” Angel replied.
“Enough to come up here…to leave the fancy trips and hot sandy beaches? Do
you love me enough to walk away from that crap and come home where you
belong,” he asked. Angel was quiet. “You know you do Angel. You just don’t
want to admit it. You don’t want to say it to him and hurt him. I get it. I just
need to know that you love me enough to do it. I need to hear you say it.” “That
would be the only way I would Chase,” Angel replied. “Well then,” he said. “I
need time. Just let me do this in my own time. In my own way,” Angel said.
She hung up and took a big sip of her wine. She leaned her head back and closed
her eyes.
Mark couldn’t take the silence anymore. He had to see what was happening. He
knew that Chase would call her. He hoped and prayed that the past few days
were enough to make her change her mind about staying married to him. He
headed downstairs and found her on the patio. She was sipping a glass of wine
and had her head leaned back on the chaise. Mark walked over to the chaise and
slid onto it beside her. She curled up in his arms, placing the wine on the table.
“You okay,” Mark asked wrapping his arms around Angel. “Better now,” Angel
said wrapping her arms around Mark. He kissed her. “Now what was all this
about,” Mark whispered. “Just needed to think,” Angel said. “About,” Mark
asked. “Us,” Angel said. A pit formed in his stomach and a lump came into his
throat. “And,” Mark asked. “Just thinking about how much I love you,” Angel
said. He kissed her. “And about how much we’ve gone through,” Angel said.
“And how much we have to look forward to,” Mark said. “Definitely,” Angel

360. 2
replied. Her head leaned against his shoulder. “So what does this mean,” Mark
asked. “Means I love you,” Angel said. “I love you too Angel. I do. I don’t ever
want to lose you,” Mark said. Angel kissed him. The lump in his stomach faded.
The lump in his throat was still there. “You never have to worry about that,”
Angel said. For the first time in months, he felt like she really did want to be
with him. Like she couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. He kissed her and
they snuggled outside. “Come to bed,” Mark said. Angel nodded. They headed
inside still with their arms wrapped around each other. They curled back up in
their bed and fell asleep in each other’s arms. Mark slept like a baby for the first
time in months. Angel couldn’t even imagine being anywhere but there.
The next morning, Angel woke up and Mark was gone. There was a single stem
of lilac on the pillow. She smiled, then got up and slid her satin robe on. She
brushed her teeth, then slid her bikini on and headed downstairs with her robe
covering her. Mark was feeding Lila. She came up behind him kissing his neck.
“Well good morning beautiful,” Mark said. Angel kissed him then gave Lila a
kiss on the forehead. She grabbed some fruit then sat down to watch Mark feed
Lila. Every once in a blue moon Mark would look over at Angel with a grin.
“You are being such a good girl for Daddy aren’t you princess,” Angel said. Lila
giggled. He finished feeding Lila, then Angel got her cleaned up and they sat
outside together. Mark had his laptop with him, but was a little distracted the
minute her satin robe slid off her shoulders. Nobody would have ever known
that she’d had a baby just over a year ago. She took good care of herself. She
had to. She had a little girl to chase around. Something about her made her
irresistible to him. That morning especially, he couldn’t wait for Lila’s naptime.
Around 11 or so, Lila finally went down for her nap. Mark and Angel both
tucked her in. She was out like a light. Angel headed back downstairs to make
some lunch. Mark followed behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.
“Awfully cuddly today there handsome,” Angel said. He kissed her neck.
“Could barely wait for naptime,” Mark joked. He kissed her shoulder. “Really,”
Angel teased. She turned to face him. He leaned her against the wall of their
kitchen. He picked her up, wrapping her legs around him, and kissed her
passionately. He carried her to the sofa and laid her down, trailing his kisses
down her torso. He untied her bikini bottoms, then moved up to untie the top.
“Mark,” Angel said. He kissed her and quieted her. He didn’t even break the
kiss sliding his shorts off and to the ground. He wrapped his arms around her
pulling her close to him as she wrapped her legs tight around him. “I want you
so bad,” Mark said. “Mark,” Angel said. “No. Don’t,” he said. “I don’t want to
move from this spot.” He kissed her neck and started to make love to her. “Feels
so good,” Mark said. Angel was in heaven. He had done everything so right,
and it did feel right being with him….making love to her husband…..but the
chance…..

361. 2
His kisses intensified. He made every move, every thrust, every kiss to turn her
on even more. She couldn’t believe this was the same man. It couldn’t have
been. The same one that so many times had cheated, lied and deceived. The
same one that had taken her to that bar that she knew she’d never enter again. It
couldn’t be the same man. She peaked. Then he did. He stayed curled up in her
arms. “I love you baby,” he said. “I love you too Mark,” Angel said. She just
held him, feeling his heart go from a rapid heartbeat to a slow and steady one
matching hers.
She was quiet again. It always panicked him. “What could be going on in that
head,” he thought to himself. He kissed her again. They were both quiet. He
was a little nervous about saying anything at that moment. He’d disobeyed her
request again. He knew she’d be a little pissed. He didn’t want to say a word.
“Mark,” Angel said. “Mmm,” he said. “Race you to the water,” Angel said. She
grabbed her swimsuit from the floor. She tied it then they raced to the ocean. He
tackled her in the water. They joked around and splashed a while, then went in
to check on Lila. She woke up the minute they were closing the door. Mark got
her up and changed and Angel headed back outside to the sunshine. When
Mark came out, he had Lila in one hand and sunscreen in the other. He handed
Lila to Angel. “Did you sleep well,” Angel asked. Lila nodded and yawned.
She leaned against Angel and kissed her. “Needed some Mommy snuggles did
you,” Angel asked her beautiful little girl. They were both in their swimsuits.
The two women Mark loved most in his life. He couldn’t imagine ever being
without them again. Doesn’t matter what it took, or what he had to do. He
would never be without them ever again. He sat down on the chaise with his
ladies and Lila climbed over and kissed and hugged her Daddy.
Angel heard the doorbell. She had an odd feeling she’d forgotten about
something. She went to the door and her friend Lee handed her an envelope.
“Nice to know some people are enjoying the weather,” Lee said. “Come in for a
drink. We’re just sitting out back,” Angel said. “I guess so,” Lee said. “Mark’s
outside. I’ll bring out some iced tea,” Angel said. Lee went and sat with Mark
and Lila. Angel went and opened the envelope and pulled out a print, then put
it in an envelope and mailed it to Chase. The mailman had just got there when
Angel handed it to him. She headed back in, got the iced tea, and put a bow on
the envelope, leaving it in the top drawer of his desk. She opened it and found
pictures of him and Lila, Angel and Lila and a few of him and Angel. It made
her smile. How could it not?
She took the iced tea outside and sat down with Lila, Mark and Lee. “So you
never did tell me. Not that I’m not happy to see you, but what are you doing
here,” Mark asked. “Just dropping a few things off for Angel,” Lee said with a
giggle. “Okay. What’s the secret,” Mark said. “Nothing love. Just a little joke

362. 2
between girls,” Angel said. Lee hung around a little while, then headed home to
her son and husband. “See you soon,” Angel said giving Lee a hug goodbye.
They all walked Lee out and waved goodbye as she left the driveway. “Spill,”
Mark said. “Okay. Treasure hunt it is,” Angel said. “What was she dropping
off,” Mark said. “It can be found somewhere where you keep your prized
possessions,” Angel said. He went into his office. Angel put Lila into her
playpen. “Where,” he said. “Prized possessions. Priceless possessions,” Angel
said. He headed for the drawer. Angel headed back outside bringing Lila with
her.
A few minutes later, Mark figured out where she had to mean. He opened the
drawer and found an envelope with a bow on it. He opened the envelope. It
was a black folio. He pulled it out and opened it. “Holy shit,” Mark said. She’d
got pictures done for him of her curled up in a fur rug, then another of her curled
up in the blankets. Both were classy shots, but he knew she had next to nothing
on in the pictures. He sat down in his chair. He picked up the phone and called
Andy. “You working tonight,” Mark asked. “Nope,” Andy said. “Going out
with Aubrey though. Just movie night at her place. Why?” “Babysitting duty,”
Mark said. “Cool. What time you want me and Aubrey there,” Andy asked.
“You can pick up the little princess anytime this afternoon. We’ll pick her up
either late tonight or tomorrow morning,” Mark said. “Where you planning to
take her this time to get back in the good books,” Andy asked. “No need. Think
I am in there permanently,” Mark said. “Yeah right. I’ll be there around 4ish,”
Andy said hanging up.
Mark headed outside. Lila was playing in the sand on the patio. Angel was
stretched out on the chaise. He sat down beside her. She looked over at him
with a silly grin. “Find the treasure,” Angel teased. His arm slid over her head
and his hand pulled her to him. She straddled him. “What do you think,” he
said. She could tell the pictures had caused the right reaction. “Hmmm,” Angel
joked. He pulled her to him and kissed her as his hands slid down to her ass.
“Guess you must have liked that surprise,” Angel said. “Oh and by the way, you
better not have any plans tonight. Andy and Aubrey are taking Lila on a date
tonight,” Mark said. “And just what might you be planning,” Angel asked. He
took her hand and slid it against him. “Oh,” Angel joked. She looked over at the
computer, and it showed 3:30pm. “So should I pick out something to wear,”
Angel said. He pulled her to him and kissed her, then rolled her over to pin her
to the chaise. “Somehow I think the two of us are having a clothing optional
night,” he whispered jokingly. Angel laughed. “So you did like your surprise,”
Angel said. “Question is, when did you do this, and how did I not find out
about it,” Mark asked. “The night after our picture thing with Lila. Remember
how I took off and came back late? We were trying to pick the best pictures of
the pack,” Angel said. “You mean there were more,” Mark said holding her

363. 2
closer to him. “A few,” Angel replied. “Let me see them,” Mark said. “They’re
in my jewelry box,” Angel said. “Later.” Mark kissed her again when she heard
a car pull up. “Guess we should get her packed,” Angel said. Mark kissed her
again then they got up. “She’s already packed,” Mark whispered in Angel’s ear.
He gave her goose bumps from head to toe. Andy and Aubrey slipped through
the back gate. “Well hello,” Mark said with his arms wrapped around Angel.
“Hello yourself,” Aubrey said. Andy laughed. “What,” Angel asked. “You two
are worse than when you first got married,” Andy said. “So what are you two
up to tonight,” Angel asked as she tried to change the topic. “Just relaxing at
home tonight. Maybe dinner,” Aubrey said laughing. “Don’t have to ask what
you two are up to,” Andy joked.
He picked up Lila and after grabbing the car seat, they were off. “Now what
exactly did you tell them we were doing tonight,” Angel asked as she headed
back towards the chaise. He pulled her into his arms. “Nothing we need to be
outside for,” he said whispering in her ear. “Well then,” Angel said bending
over to grab her book and cell phone. She leaned against him intentionally.
“You know you are in for it don’t you,” Mark teased. “No idea what you are
talking about,” Angel teased standing back up against Mark. “You are so on
punishment tonight,” Mark joked. “Oh darn. Confined to the bedroom I
assume,” Angel joked. He kissed her neck. She turned to head towards the door
to head back inside. Mark held on and followed her. “So seriously. What are
we doing tonight,” Angel said putting her book and cell phone on the counter.
She turned to face him. He kissed her picking her up and wrapping her legs
around his waist. He walked towards the steps and headed upstairs to their
bedroom, laying her onto their bed. “Now, tell me again where those pictures
are,” Mark said. “Jewelry box,” Angel said. He kissed her then got up heading
towards the counter where the jewelry box was. He opened it and found the
envelope then brought it back over to where Angel was opening it on the way.
There were more than a few shots in there. Every one was better than the
previous one. One was of her laughing. “This one,” Mark said. “That was third
choice,” Angel said. He put the pictures on the bedside table and kissed Angel
again. “I am one lucky man aren’t I,” Mark said. “Definitely,” she replied.
“Now we aren’t sharing those pictures with anyone else are we,” Mark asked.
“Nope,” Angel replied. Thank god she’d mailed the one to Chase before Mark
knew about them. “All for my private collection,” Mark said. Angel nodded.
He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her. He slid her bikini off and
kissed her caressing her skin with his lips. “Mark,” Angel said. “Yes baby,” he
replied. She motioned for him to come closer. He did and kissed her. She
wrapped her arms and legs around him. She slid his shorts to the ground and
they kissed and made out on the bed. “I want you so bad,” Mark said. “All
yours,” Angel replied. He made love to her with no fights…no demands. He

364. 2
loved her down to the bottom of his heart. Every morning he felt them getting
closer and closer. He knew at that moment he couldn’t live without this.
Without her touch, the scent of her perfume, the feel of her skin against his.
Angel had got so used to him being with her. She felt so secure and safe again.
Like nothing bad could touch them if they were together. Things had changed so
fast from the way they were before they left for their surprise trip. The fact that
they were practically inseparable probably had something to do with it. Every
touch from his skin to hers made her hotter and hotter for him. She really
couldn’t resist him.
They curled up together in bed in each other’s arms. “Liked the surprise by the
way,” Mark said. “In case I forgot to tell you.” “Had a feeling you might like it.
I almost forgot about the pictures. Lee called me to remind me when we were
away,” Angel said. Mark kissed her again. “Still, the one of you smiling and
laughing is my favorite,” Mark said. “Because it reminds you of how happy I
am,” Angel asked. He nodded. “Good. Don’t ever forget it,” Angel said.

365. 2
Chapter 41
That night, after a romantic dinner just the two of them, and making love again,
they curled up together in the warm bathtub with a glass of wine and all the
candles they could find. “So here’s my question,” Mark said. “What’s that
baby,” Angel said. “You don’t really care if you get pregnant now do you,”
Mark said. “Whatever happens will happen,” Angel said. “Well then,” Mark
said. “What,” Angel said. “Guess you changed your mind on that one now
didn’t you,” Mark said. “You already know how I feel about it Mark, but
whatever will be will be,” Angel replied. He kissed her neck. “I missed this,”
Mark said. “Missed what,” Angel asked. He held her close in his arms. “Being
with you, just you and me. Sort of missed having you all to myself,” Mark said.
“You realize if we have another baby that this will even be more rare,” Angel
said. “Okay. I get your point,” he replied. He kissed her again. “It is kind of
nice isn’t it. Just the two of us. No crying babies, no noise,” Angel said. “We
should do this more often shouldn’t we,” Mark said. His hands slid down her
torso. “Definitely,” Angel replied. She got up and slipped out of the tub and
into her fuzzy bathrobe. “Where are you going,” Mark asked. “Bed,” Angel
said. She slipped into the bedroom and slid on her satin nightie, then slid into
their bed. Mark hopped out of the tub and headed into the bedroom right
behind her. “Tired,” Mark asked. “A little,” Angel replied. Her cell phone rang.
Angel looked at the caller and pressed silent. “Chase,” Mark said noticing the
caller name. “I’ll talk to him another time. It’s our time,” Angel said. Mark slid
into bed next to Angel and wrapped his arms around her. The lump that had
been in his throat all day, was finally gone. No trace of it left.
He held her in his arms. She turned to kiss him and wrapped her arms around
him. “What,” Angel said seeing the smile on his face. “Nothing baby. Just love
you,” Mark said. Angel kissed him again. He held her in his arms throughout
the night knowing that she’d made her choice – or had she. He closed his eyes
with the feeling that her decision had been made – she was staying with him. No
more Chase, no more disappearing. She was with him 100%.
Angel closed her eyes and tried to sleep. After an hour or two of tossing and
turning, she opened her eyes and decided some ocean air would be the best
remedy. She headed downstairs and leaned back in the chaise. Her cell phone
rang again. She answered.
“Why didn’t you pick up earlier,” Chase asked. “You do realize I have a life
Chase. I was busy,” Angel said. “Already know what you were doing,” Chase
replied. “Would you stop. We are married. Just like you and Crystal,” Angel
said. “Not like me and Crystal. We are legally separated and she got the divorce
papers today,” Chase said. “I thought you said you were going to try to work it

366. 2
out Chase,” Angel asked. “Not when I caught them outside the damn bar I
won’t,” Chase replied. “So that’s why you called,” Angel said. “Told them both
at the same time. Told her I hoped they were happy together and went and sat
in the damn truck. I took off and came home. She had no damn intention of
trying, just like I know you don’t want to try with him anymore. Let’s just do
this once and for all Angel,” Chase said. “Whoa. What are you going to do
about the kids,” Angel asked. “Lily will probably be with her, but the kids are
going to be with me. My mom has them for the week. I can’t talk to them about
this right now. I need you,” Chase said. “I can’t just up and leave. I have
responsibilities. I am supposed to be working on Monday,” Angel said.
“Please,” Chase pleaded. “You know how bad that would look that I am
running to your rescue don’t you,” Angel said. “Who cares what Mark thinks. I
need you,” Chase said. Angel could feel someone watching her. She turned
around and Goldie was at the door. She let her out and closed the door. “I can’t
just take off and go Chase. I really do have things I need to be here for,” Angel
said. “So you aren’t coming? Great,” Chase said. “Let me talk to him. It would
only be for a day or two at the most. I can’t spare more than that,” Angel said.
“The faster the better,” Chase replied.
“Talk to me about what,” Mark said coming outside. “I’ll call you and let you
know,” Angel said. She hung up. “Chase need you for something,” Mark asked.
He sat down on the edge of the chaise and leaned his body against Angel’s. “He
caught Crystal with a friend of his. He served her divorce papers and the same
day he caught her. That’s why he called earlier,” Angel said. “And let me
guess….he wants you to come and comfort him,” Mark said. “Just for a day or
two. I told him I would have to discuss it with you first. Don’t know if I want to
go,” Angel said. Mark kissed her. “I don’t want you to. Would be lonely in bed
without you,” Mark said. He kissed her again. Angel wrapped her arms around
him. “You could come meet me, say, Monday,” Angel said. “Ooh. Vacation,”
he said laughing. “Or if not, I would come home Monday or Tuesday morning,”
Angel said. “Do I have to share,” Mark asked. “Nope,” Angel said. “You
promise me that you won’t sleep with him,” Mark said. “Now why would I do
that,” Angel said. “What…promise me or sleep with him,” Mark said. “Sleep
with someone else,” Angel said. He kissed her hard and pulled her tight against
him. “Fine, but you break the promise, you are so on punishment,” Mark said.
Angel sent Chase a text and let him know. He volunteered to book her flight.
“Now what are you doing out here anyway,” Mark asked. “Needed some air I
think. I couldn’t sleep,” Angel said. “Anything I can do to assist you,” Mark
asked kissing her neck. “Hmmm,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Come to bed,”
Mark whispered in her ear. She got goose bumps again. “Before I have to carry
you to bed.” They got up and headed inside with Goldie then headed to bed.
They curled up again in bed, and she fell asleep in his arms. He wrapped his

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arms around her and felt better knowing that she wouldn’t break that promise.
There were no more worries – or were there. What happens if she decides to stay
with him? What happens if she doesn’t come back? His eyes were open.
Thoughts were running through his head. He looked at her laying in his arms.
She had to be his – only his. He held on a little tighter then quieted the doubts in
his head. He finally got to sleep, dreaming of them living happily ever after with
2 kids. A smile came across his face.
The next morning, he woke up and she was still in his arms. He looked over at
the clock – 8:00. He looked down at her and kissed her forehead. Her eyes
opened. “Morning,” Angel said. He kissed her and she wrapped her arms
around him. “Now that’s what I call a good morning kiss,” Mark teased. Angel
slid over and straddled him. “Really,” she said. He sat up staring her in the eye.
“Damn. I hate to say it, but I am kind of glad Lila is at a sleepover,” Mark said as
he slid the lingerie strap from her shoulder. The lingerie slid down her torso into
a puddle in her lap. Mark slid it over her head, dropping it to the floor. He
kissed her breasts, her chest, then kissed her lips. He flipped her onto her back.
“I missed these kinds of mornings,” Mark said. She slid his boxers to the floor
and wrapped her legs around him. They made love slowly, tenderly cherishing
every moment, every breath. He couldn’t hold it in. He was addicted to her kiss.
To the feel of her lips against his. To the way her body felt wrapped up with his.
To how good it felt making love to her. How on earth was he going to get
through those few days without this?
Eventually, they got up from the bed and picked up Lila, then headed home so
Angel could pack. “Have a feeling I won’t be sleeping much while you’re gone,”
Mark said. “Me neither,” Angel said. “You don’t really have to go do you,”
Mark asked. “I already promised I would be there. I mean, he’s been there for
me. It’s the least I could do,” Angel said. “Don’t forget what you promised
though,” Mark said. Angel smiled at him. “Wouldn’t even think it. Same goes
for you though,” Angel said. “Something tells me I would be too busy with Lila
for that,” Mark said. “Mark,” Angel said. “I know. I promise to wish you were
here every second,” Mark joked. “That’s better,” Angel replied. “Why,” Lila
said trying to hop into the suitcase. “Mommy’s going to see Chase,” Angel said.
“Me see Cay,” Lila said. “No. Just mommy,” Angel said. “No. I go too,” Lila
said. She started to cry. “She’s going to be a ball of fun,” Mark said picking up
Lila as she cried on his shoulder. “You sure you don’t want me to take her with
me,” Angel said. He kissed Angel. “We’ll be fine. We have a whole beach to
play with while you are gone,” Mark said as Lila wiped her eyes. Angel finished
packing and put her bag into the trunk. Mark brought her carry-on out and
fastened Lila into her car seat. “Saw you slip something in here. What are you
up to,” Angel said. He kissed Angel, locked the door and they headed for the
airport. Every time she tried to sneak a peek at what he’d put in there he would

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give her a look that said for her to wait. They got to the airport, then Mark and
Lila walked Angel to the gate. Mark gave Angel a kiss to remind her of what she
would be missing while she was gone. “Two days,” Angel said. Mark nodded.
Angel gave Lila a big hug and a kiss, and then gave Mark another kiss, then
headed for her plane.
Angel checked her bag, then hopped into her seat. She slid a hand into the bag
and pulled out a box and a letter. She smiled the minute she saw his
handwriting. He’d written her a letter:
Angel:
Just a little reminder of how much I love you. Now that things
are so much better, I know I won’t lose you. I want you to know
that you can trust me. I won’t blow it again. I really don’t know
what I would have done if you hadn’t given me another chance.
The long and lonely nights would have done me in. I miss you
already baby. Miss staring into those baby blue eyes, miss your
perfect lips, your smile, the feel of your arms around me. Ever
since Lila came, we have had a hard time of things. I know why
you hesitated when we thought of having another baby. I just
want you to know that you don’t need to worry anymore. All you
need to do is come home to me….soon.
Lila misses you, Goldie misses you and so do I. I love you so much.
Sometimes I watch you sleeping, curled up in my arms and wonder
how I got so lucky.
Love Mark
Angel couldn’t help but smile. He had a way with pulling her heartstrings. She
opened the box and found two items: a notebook with a fancy pen, and a picture
of the three of them. She leaned back on the flight and relaxed clutching the
picture in her arms.
By the time the flight landed, Angel was anxious to get all of it overwith. She got
her bag and headed out the gate to meet Chase. He was at the gate pacing back
and forth. “Finally,” he said as he walked over towards Angel. He hugged her
tight and kissed her. “You’re home…..finally,” Chase said. “Now, what are you
going to do about the kids. You have to tell them at some point Chase,” Angel
said. He kissed her again. “Nice to see you too,” he replied. “Yeah,” Angel said

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as they headed for his truck. Everything was relatively quiet until they got to the
house. Chase took Angel’s bag in, and she sat on the front stoop to call Mark to
let him know she got there okay.
“So you got my little surprise for you did you,” Mark said. “Yes. Definitely put
a smile on my face,” Angel said. “I meant it. Every word,” Mark said. “I know.
I love you too,” Angel said. “Did you want to say hello to Lila,” Mark asked.
“The princess misses me already doesn’t she,” Angel said. “She cried part of the
way home, but she’s okay now. One sec,” Mark said. He handed the phone to
Lila. “Hi Baby,” Angel said. “Mama,” Lila said. “Yes baby,” Angel replied. “I
la you,” Lila replied. “I love you too baby. Someone here wants to say hi,”
Angel said. Chase came over to the phone. “Hi Lila,” Chase said. “Hi Cay. I la
you Cay,” Lila said giggling. “Love you too squirt,” Chase said handing the
phone back to Angel. Mark took the phone from Lila. “So everything good,”
Mark asked. “Sort of,” Angel said. “Not with that tone of voice,” Mark said.
“Mmm hmm,” Angel said. “I’ll call you after I get her to sleep,” Mark said.
“You better,” Angel said. “Love you,” Mark said. “Love you too,” Angel replied
hanging up.
She headed inside to find that Chase had put something together for them for a
quick dinner. “Wasn’t sure if you ate on the plane or not,” he said. “Actually
slept through. Must have been tired,” Angel said. They talked and chatted
through dinner. “So looks like I may be a lonely man up here all by myself,”
Chase said. “Oh would you stop. Like you can’t get just about any damn woman
you want. Go back to dancing. You always loved the attention before,” Angel
said. “I don’t want that kind of attention. I want you,” Chase said. He got up
and took the plates to the sink. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her. Angel stood
up and broke the kiss. She grabbed another glass of wine and walked into the
front room. Chase followed. “Why are you walking away,” Chase asked. “Stop
trying to make me decide Chase. I told you. End of May. It’s the first damn
week of April,” Angel said. He turned her to face him, and kissed her. “You
know how you feel when I kiss you right,” Chase asked. “Yes. Don’t bother
showing me again,” Angel said. He kissed her again. He took the glass from her
hand and placed it on the table. “Chase. Not tonight okay. You aren’t going to
get at back at her by using me,” Angel said. He kissed her again backing her into
the wall.
He picked her up and wrapped her legs around him, still kissing her. He untied
her dress. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her to quiet her and carried her to the
bedroom. “Like I would use you to get back at her. Only use my powers for
good and you know it,” Chase joked. He slid her dress off. “We can’t Chase,”
Angel said. “And why might that be,” Chase asked. Angel tried to squirm
away. “Well,” Chase said pulling her back to him. “Chase,” Angel said. He slid

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his hands up to slide her g-string off. “You said you needed my help with
figuring out what to tell the kids. This doesn’t seem kid-oriented,” Angel said.
He slid his jeans off never taking his eyes off her. He pulled his tank top off and
threw it on the floor. He kissed her again. Every muscle flexed against her soft
skin. The scent of his cologne intoxicated her. He held her in his arms, sliding
her bra off. “Chase. We can’t,” Angel said. She heard him open a drawer then a
package then he replied, “Yes we can.”
“Chase,” Angel said. He moved up to look her dead in the eye. She felt him
against her. She couldn’t give in. She’d promised. “Oh,” Angel said as she felt
him move inside her. He kissed her. “This is the way it should always be,”
Chase said. He kissed her again and made love to her. Slow, steady,
passionately. Cherishing every moment, he kissed her neck, her shoulders, her
ear. An hour or so later, she lay in his arms with her back to him. “Angel,”
Chase said. “What,” she asked. “Tell me you haven’t fallen for him all over
again and I am going to be here alone,” Chase said. “Enough already. It’s not a
damn competition,” Angel said grabbing her robe and slippers from her bag and
heading for the shower. She locked the door.
She let the hot water bead up on her skin until she could get her mind straight.
She washed her hair and lathered herself in her favorite lavender shower gel that
she’d bought when she was out with Mark one afternoon. The hot water felt so
good against her skin. She toweled off and headed for the bedroom, grabbing
her jeans, sweater and runners. “Where the hell are you going at this hour,”
Chase asked. “Walk to the beach,” Angel said. “You want a night out, then let’s
go down to the bar,” Chase said. She pulled on her heels instead of her runners,
and a little top instead of her sweater and they were off. He handed her a
cigarette, already lit. “Bad damn influence,” Angel said. “And you damn well
love it,” Chase said. They got to the light and he kissed her. “You know this
wasn’t planned,” Angel said. “Oh yes it was,” Chase said. “You lied didn’t
you,” Angel said. “No, but it did get you here didn’t it,” Chase said. “I swear
Chase. If this was all just to get me alone,” Angel said. “Then what….I wanted
you all to my damn self without you taking off to take care of his ass,” Chase
said. “Did all of that really happen last night,” Angel asked. “Yes, and all I could
think was that now I had my chance for actual happiness. My chance to be with
you once and for all,” Chase said. They pulled into the parking lot and Angel
hopped out and headed inside. Chase followed.
They headed downstairs and Angel said hi to her friends that she remembered.
She looked over and saw Crystal. She was with a few of her girlfriends.
“Don’t,” Chase said seeing what Angel was staring directly at. Crystal turned
and met Angel’s gaze. She got up, walking towards Crystal and noticed Chase
pulling her away. “Don’t bother,” Chase said. Crystal walked over to them.

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“Well. Look at who it is. What did he do? Call you to fight his damn battle for
him,” Crystal said. “What is up with you,” Angel said pulling her aside.
“Firstly, keep it down. Secondly, weren’t you the one that said that you were
going to give it a chance? What? How long did that last? A week,” Angel said.
“Don’t bother. She doesn’t want to be married to me anymore, that’s fine. Hope
her and my so-called friend are happy together. Oh, and by the way. No me, no
damn job,” Chase said. “Outside,” Angel said. Crystal didn’t bother to fight her
on it, and Chase begrudgingly followed. Grant saw Crystal walk out from the
corner of his eye.
They headed around the back to talk it out rationally. “Chase, you say your
piece. No interruptions,” Angel said. “You have been with him all this damn
time. With me, and with him. You don’t love me. You might have at one point,
but I know you don’t now. I know you don’t care if I get hurt. I don’t want my
kids living like this,” Chase said. “Fact is Chase, that I did try. My feelings
towards him got stronger. I couldn’t hold them back. Fact is, we both knew this
wasn’t going to work Chase. You are in love with someone else and you know it.
I really don’t know who, and I really don’t know why you would have called
Angel away from her husband and her baby to settle this between us. If you
want me to move, I am gone. I’ll take Lily with me. I’m sorry. I tried. I really
did Chase. I just can’t live a lie anymore,” Crystal said. Angel saw Grant’s head
peering around the corner. She headed towards him. “Get your ass over here
Grant,” Angel said. He walked towards them. Chase looked like he was going
to blow a gasket. He walked towards Grant. “You lying son of a bitch. You tell
me you’re my damn friend and you fuck my wife?” Chase raised his arm and
looked like he was about to nail Grant in the face. “Chase,” Angel said pulling
him back. “Not like it was intentional. I swear Chase. I didn’t mean this to
happen. It just happened. After all the shit you two went through, she couldn’t
take it and needed someone who’d be there and I just happened to be the person
she came to. I’m sorry,” Grant said. “Get out of my face. Go,” Chase said. He
went back into the bar with Crystal. “See what I mean? You see it,” Chase said.
Angel looked him in the eye. “You wouldn’t be wanting to fight him if you
didn’t still love her Chase. Calm down,” Angel said.
He lit a cigarette and headed to the truck. “Sit down and chill out. I’ll be right
back,” Angel said. She went inside and pulled Crystal aside. “He is so hurt. I
can’t believe I caused this,” Crystal said. “You did. You also know how much
he loves you. He’d fight anyone for you. Do you really love Grant that much
that you would give up what you and Chase have,” Angel asked. “He makes me
happy. There is no stress, no worries. It’s like a breath of fresh air,” Crystal said.
“Maybe you two just need to figure out how to talk again. Take the stress of the
kids away. Can you two actually sit down and talk…alone? If Mark and I can
after all the shit he’s put me through, I’m sure you two can. Knowing that you

372. 2
want Grant hurts his pride. He needs you. He thought the only way to cope was
to ask me for help. Talk to him. Alone. Just you and him. No Grant peering
around the corner, and I won’t interfere. Go. He’s in the truck,” Angel said.
Crystal headed outside and headed for the truck. She hopped in and tried to talk
to Chase. Angel made her way over to Grant. “What the hell Grant. There are
how many other women in here. You had to go for Chase’s damn wife? Come
on,” Angel said. “Fact is that we were friends and this is what became of it. It
wasn’t anyone’s damn fault,” Grant said. “Then when I tell you to stay away
from her and let them work this out you will actually listen for once in your
damn life,” Angel said. “What are you his damn keeper,” Grant asked. “No. I
am something that you should be being….his friend,” Angel replied. “Leave her
alone. Stay away from her and let them work this out. Don’t make me fly up
here and tell your ass off again. Back off of her. Stay away from Chase unless
you want your ass kicked. Give them a month or two with no interruptions from
you or anyone else.” “So do you know who he was cheating on her with,” Grant
asked. “What are you talking about,” Angel said. “She had a feeling he was in
love with someone other than her. She knew it. Who is it,” Grant said. “Why?
Going to try to hook up with her too? Give it a rest,” Angel said. “You do know
don’t you,” Grant said. Angel turned to walk away. “Who is it,” Grant said.
“She’s not available to Chase just like Crystal’s not available to you okay. Now
leave them be,” Angel said. She grabbed a glass of wine and sat down. All the
guys came over to say hello, then Chase came back in with Crystal. Grant
steered clear as promised. Crystal grabbed her purse and headed home. Chase
headed over to Angel.
“What are you doing all the way over here,” Chase said. “Hiding out and
watching for fireworks,” Angel said. “Ha ha very funny,” Chase said. Angel
sipped her wine. “Ready to go home,” Chase asked. “No. What happened,”
Angel said. “Let’s just go,” Chase said. Angel finished her wine, waved
goodbye and headed out with Chase.
“Well,” Angel said as they hopped in the truck. “Well nothing. She said she’d
try to go to counseling or something with me. That she didn’t want to lose me.
That she loved me. She didn’t mean to hurt me. All that bullshit that I know
was a damn lie,” Chase said. “Hold on a minute. I told her to talk to you. That
the two of you needed to be somewhere quiet and alone to talk. That’s all I said.
She meant those words Chase,” Angel said. “She slept with him over and over
again. They’ve been together on and off for almost a year Angel. You know how
much sex that means,” Chase said. “About enough to call it even,” Angel
replied.

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There was silence on the way home. Chase parked the car then stomped up the
front steps then walked upstairs. By the time Angel got to the steps, Chase was
lighting a cigarette on the upstairs balcony. He stared out at his house – the
house he had shared with Crystal all that time. The memories they’d shared
there. The numerous times he spent days talking Crystal into one thing or
another.
Angel headed upstairs, locked up and headed to her bedroom, slipping on her
black satin pajamas and hopping into her bed. She looked over at the picture
she’d placed on the night stand and it put a smile on her face. She felt inspired to
write something, knowing the only eyes that would see it would be hers and
Mark’s. She picked up the notebook and pen and began to write.
Chase walked in a few minutes later. “What,” Angel said. “You would have to
get me thinking about that,” Chase said. “I was just pointing out the obvious,”
Angel said. “I guess, but maybe you are right,” Chase said. “About,” Angel said
putting down the pen and notebook. “That they’ve screwed around enough that
we can call it even,” Chase said. “Meaning,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. “It
ain’t even close to even,” Chase said. “No you aren’t Chase Lockheart,” Angel
said pushing him away. “You are not going to do this to get back at her.” Chase
kissed her again and slid the covers down. “Well I guess now that you are over
that I can go home,” Angel said. She got up and went to go downstairs. He
grabbed her arm and pinned her into the door. He kissed her with an odd sense
of urgency. He pulled his tank top off and undid his jeans. “Chase. No. Not
like this,” Angel said. He kissed her again. He picked her up wrapping her legs
around him then backed her up to the bed. “Chase, no. We aren’t doing this.
We do and I am going home in the morning,” Angel said. “But I need you,” he
said. He kissed her again, sliding the black satin chemise up. “Chase. Cut it
out,” Angel said. He kissed her again to quiet her. “You want to have someone
next to you fine, but not this Chase. You’re upset. Just chill the hell out,” Angel
said. He kissed her again and curled up under the covers with her. “Angel,”
Chase said. “What,” Angel replied turning the light off. “I really do love you ya
know,” Chase said. “I know. Just get some sleep. You have to go into this with
a clear head,” Angel said.
That night, Mark couldn’t help but wonder what was happening at the house.
She knew Chase had to be there with her. He just hoped she’d keep her promise.
“Why wouldn’t she,” he thought to himself as he inhaled a cigarette. He finished
the cigarette and headed inside. He quickly checked on Lila then headed to bed.
The smell of her perfume was still on the pillow. One scent and he was as turned
on as he was the night before. He grabbed the phone and made a quick call.

374. 2
The phone rang at the house and Angel grabbed it on the first ring. “Baby,”
Mark said. “Hey handsome,” Angel said. “I miss you,” Mark said as his hands
slid down his torso noticing how horny he was. His body reacted. “Oh you do,”
Angel said. “Badly,” Mark said. “How badly,” Angel teased. “Depends,” Mark
said. “On,” Angel replied. “What are you wearing,” Mark asked. A smile came
across her lips. “Black satin,” Angel replied. “And,” he asked. “Nothing else,”
Angel said. The conversation continued as she slipped out of the bed and
downstairs to the screened in patio. “Now where were we again,” Angel said.
“If I were there,” Mark said. “Mmm,” Angel said.
An hour or so later, she headed back upstairs, and climbed back into bed. Chase
was out cold. She curled up in the other room and went to sleep. She so wanted
to be home. Things were on the right path again for Chase and Crystal. She
didn’t need to be there anymore. She fell asleep thinking of Mark and Lila.
The next morning Angel woke up and starting putting her things into her bag.
“Where are you going,” Chase asked. “You don’t need me here Chase. You two
need to fix this alone. All I did was make you two actually talk,” Angel said.
Chase got up, pulled his jeans on and walked towards Angel. “Fact is that I
don’t know if things are going to work or not. She knows there’s someone I am
in love with. She doesn’t know it’s you. I’m not losing you to be with her. I
won’t,” Chase said. He kissed Angel. “Chase, me being here isn’t helping
anything. It’s distracting you from what you should be doing. Go work on it
with her Chase. Go home,” Angel said. “It’s not my home anymore. She isn’t
my home anymore. You are,” Chase said. He kissed Angel again and leaned her
against the wall. “Chase,” Angel said as he let her up for air. “Yes,” he said.
“Breakfast,” Angel said. He picked her up and tried to wrap her leg around him.
“After,” Chase said.
His body leaned against her. Every muscle rippling against her skin. He was so
warm. He kissed her again. “Chase, you know we can’t do this,” Angel said
trying to get a word in. The scent of him was arousing her senses. It weakened
her. He kissed her again holding her face in his hands. His hands slid down her
torso and picked her up. He laid her onto the bed. The bed they had shared
many a passionate night in. The bed where she’d forgotten about her
relationship with Mark. Where she’d thought she was going to be with Chase.
The bed she shared with Chase for all that time. She had to clear her head of this.
The scent was distracting her.
He slid the belt off her robe and pulled the robe off of her, dropping it to the
ground. “Chase,” Angel said. “No. Don’t say it. I want you all to myself. No
sharing,” Chase said as he started to make love to Angel. He felt so good in her
arms. Like nothing could touch him or tear them apart. Her body felt good

375. 2
against his. This had to be right. It was meant to be in his eyes. This is the way
it always should be. Every kiss made him want her more. Slowly they made
love then grew faster, more intense. When they finally came up for air, Angel
caught her breath and got up, heading towards the shower. “Where are you
going,” Chase asked. “I’m going to go home Chase. This isn’t helping anything.
You’re supposed to be working on things with Crystal, not jumping into my bed
and seducing me,” Angel said. She hopped into the shower, then came out and
grabbed her jeans. “You can’t leave. Please,” Chase said. “You said you needed
me to help you with the Crystal situation. I’m not helping anymore. I’m your
damn excuse why you won’t make it work. I’m going,” Angel said. She finished
getting dressed and called the airline to move her flight up. Chase grabbed the
phone before she could change the flight. “I’ll do what you want. Just please
don’t leave,” Chase said. “You sleep in the other room then. No more of what
happened this morning. Promise,” Angel said. “Fine. But I still need you,”
Chase said. “Go over there. Take her out for breakfast and talk to her Chase. I’ll
get some writing done. Go,” Angel said.
Chase showered and changed and headed over to his house. When he walked
in, Crystal was in his favorite shirt. She was curled up on the sofa with the cat
reading a book. She turned to see him. “Come out for breakfast with me,” Chase
said. “I hadn’t really planned on going out Chase,” Crystal said. “Please,” he
asked. “Okay,” she said. She headed upstairs to their bedroom and changed.
Chase followed her. “Do you love me,” Chase asked her. “Of course I do. I
wouldn’t have married you if I didn’t,” Crystal said. “Then why,” Chase asked.
“It wasn’t like I planned it Chase. It just sort of happened,” Crystal replied.
“Was it something I did,” he asked. “I don’t know. Might have been all the
stupid fights we got into when you were dancing. I don’t know,” Crystal said.
“You know I am not going to dance anymore right,” Chase said. “I know. I
respect the fact that you gave it up to fix things with us. I do. I just don’t know
why it’s all changed. It’s like we grew apart or something.” “You think we
could find our way back to each other,” he asked. “I don’t know Chase, but I
hope we can. I love those kids so much. I really do. I would hate to hurt them,”
she said. She slid her t-shirt on and Chase kissed her and pulled her into his
arms. Her arms slid around his neck. He still had an effect on her that Crystal
couldn’t deny. “Let’s go have breakfast,” Crystal said. He kissed her again and
they left.
Angel curled up with her notebook and her picture outside on the balcony. She
looked at the clock – almost 11am. She picked up the phone and called Mark.
“Hey baby,” he said noticing the number on the call display. “Hey yourself.
How are things,” Angel asked. “Missing you like crazy, but other than that
fine,” Mark replied. “Missing you too. I wish you guys were here,” Angel said.
“So how are things going with Chase,” Mark asked. “They are out for breakfast.

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Saw them leave an hour or so ago,” Angel said. “So miss fix-it strikes again,”
Mark said. “Believe it or not, I got them actually talking again. There’s a lot they
needed to talk about,” Angel said. “So how did you sleep,” Mark asked. “Okay.
Was a little lonely in that big bed all alone,” Angel said. “Worse here. Once
Lila’s out, the place is dead quiet. Goldie and I have been hanging out more
though,” Mark joked. “I miss you too. Almost wish I were home,” Angel said.
She knew what he wanted to ask her. “And Mark, no he hasn’t even been in my
bedroom,” Angel said. Somehow that eased the tension she heard in Mark’s
voice. “Good to hear,” Mark said. “Just wanted to call and say hi. Missed the
sound of your voice,” Angel said. “Me too. See you tomorrow,” Mark said.
“Definitely,” Angel replied.
An hour or two later, Chase and Crystal got back from breakfast. Angel peeked
over at them. They headed inside together. “Now that’s better,” Angel thought
to herself. An hour or so later, Chase left and headed back to her place. He came
inside, then upstairs to the balcony. “So how was breakfast,” Angel asked.
“Fine. We talked,” Chase said. “And,” Angel asked. “We’re going to try,”
Chase said. “Perfect,” Angel said. “Come with me for a minute,” Chase asked.
He grabbed Angel’s hand. He closed the door to the balcony and leaned her
against it kissing her. “Chase,” Angel said pushing him away. “The chemistry is
still there, but I still want you,” Chase said. He kissed Angel again. She pushed
him away and headed downstairs. “Chase, quit it. The two of you are together.
You should be together. Just forget about the feelings you have for me.
Concentrate on Crystal,” Angel said. “I can, but I can’t ignore how I feel about
you,” Chase said. “You’re going to have to Chase,” Angel said. She grabbed
herself some ice water then went back upstairs. “Stop walking away from me,”
Chase said. “Angel headed upstairs, slipping her notebook into her suitcase. “I
can’t do this without you,” Chase said. “Yes you can. Just go and be with her.
Talk. Do something. Don’t direct all your energy towards me Chase. Go,”
Angel said. Angel picked up the phone. “You aren’t going home tonight Angel.
I won’t let you. One last night, we are making the most of,” Chase said. “Go and
take her out Chase. I’m fine. I think I may get a flight back tonight. Just go be
with her,” Angel said. She was waiting on hold with the airline. Chase took the
phone from her hand and hung it up. “What,” Angel said. “We’re going out,”
Chase said. “Where,” Angel asked. “Throw your runners on,” Chase said. 10
minutes later they were out the door.
They drove through the park that they used to hang out at, then went for a drive
to the area where they first met. “You really don’t want to come back to this,”
Chase asked. “Hey, if you and Crystal fix things and are together, Mark and Lila
and I will come back for a visit. I just want you to be happy. I know getting
divorced isn’t what you want Chase. No matter how much you protest it. The
two of you should be together,” Angel said. Chase parked the truck. “What

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happens if it doesn’t Angel. I want you in my life. I want you in my arms every
night. How the hell do I turn that off if you and Mark work out,” Chase asked.
“Something we both have to do Chase. There’s no way around it,” Angel said.
He kissed her. One kiss led to two and so on. Finally she stopped him. “Let’s
just go back to the house. You go talk to her some more. I’ll call and move my
flight up,” Angel said. “And what happens if I don’t let you leave,” Chase
asked. “Then Mark and Lila will be coming up here,” Angel said. Chase kissed
her again. “Can’t have one last night of having you all to myself,” Chase asked.
Angel shook her head. “Last night shouldn’t have happened at all. You know
that Chase,” Angel said. “Fact is that things with Crystal and I are still up in the
air. We both know what I want,” Chase said. He leaned over to kiss Angel again
and she hopped out of the truck. She walked towards the edge and looked
across at the view of the water. Chase came out behind her and wrapped his
arms around her kissing her neck. “Would you stop already. I get your point
Chase. Answer is still no,” Angel said. “Now, you taking me back to the house
so I can go home or what,” Angel asked. “I’ll take you, but your flight doesn’t
leave until the morning and I have no intention of letting you go home early,”
Chase said. “Can we at least go back to the house then,” Angel asked. “Let’s go
then,” Chase said.
They headed back to the house and managed to talk. “I still can’t seem to get the
image of the two of them out of my head. I go to sleep at night and all I dream
about is the two of them in bed together. Him kissing my damn wife,” Chase
said. “Calm down Chase,” Angel said. “What the hell do you mean calm down?
She’s fucking my best friend Angel. The guy I have known forever,” Chase said.
“And you have been cheating on her with me Chase. Why are you any better,”
Angel said. “Fact is that I love you. That’s the damn difference. I’ve loved you
forever and we both know it. We actually belong together. I sure as hell am not
Mark’s best damn friend. Far from it. If I had my choice…” “I know Chase, but
it’s not your choice. It’s no better than what we have done, and I for one am not
going to put Mark through this anymore. It isn’t fair to Crystal or to Mark. I
love him. End of discussion. He’s the father of my daughter. I can’t be with you
and him Chase. I have to be dedicated to one or the other. You understand that
now don’t you. She couldn’t be with you and still sleep with him. You know she
loves you Chase. Just try to make it work. Talk to her,” Angel said. “And if I
said I wanted you,” Chase said. “I’d tell you that Crystal wants you too,” Angel
replied. They took the scenic route back to the house.
They pulled into the driveway and Angel headed inside. “Go,” Angel said. He
turned to walk across the street and saw Crystal outside. He wandered across
the street. “I need to ask you something Chase,” Crystal said. “What’s that,”
Chase replied walking over to her. “Are you in love with Angel,” she asked.
“She is an important person in my life,” Chase said trying not to divulge what

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he’d just confessed to Angel. “That’s not what I asked Chase. It’s almost like
every time something happens with us, you either take off for California, or she
ends up here. I just need to know,” Crystal said. “She is my best friend Crystal.
I love her. Sometimes I don’t know what I would do without her,” Chase said.
“So that’s a yes,” Crystal said. “Fact is that ever since we were there and you
told me about being with someone else, I’ve emotionally pulled away. I had to.
You don’t know how much it hurt. She was the closest person there,” Chase
said. “Have you slept with her other than when we were at that bar place,”
Crystal asked. She could read him like a book. He had to put on a brave face.
“Curled up on the sofa together maybe, but no. You know better than to ask me
that,” Chase said. “I also know you better than you think I do Chase. You
haven’t gone that long without in years. Are you or aren’t you sleeping with
Angel,” Crystal asked. “Once. That’s all. It was a mistake. Fact is, you’ve been
sleeping with my best friend for months. Probably the entire time we’ve been
married,” Chase said. “That’s not true. I love you Chase. It just feels like every
time things are going really well, something happens to make it all go wrong
again. I miss things the way they used to be. When everything was simple and
easy. When it was the best feeling in the world waking up in your arms. When I
always woke up with a big smile. I miss that Chase. I really do,” Crystal said.
He stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her. He leaned his head
down and kissed her.
Angel looked over at what she’d done. She had managed to push them back into
each other’s arms. She leaned back in her chair and did some writing. She
looked over at the phone. As it stood now, Chase would be busy for a while. He
wouldn’t even notice if she left and headed home. Strangely, she missed Lila
and Mark. She craved Mark at that exact moment. She picked up the phone and
moved her flight up. The earliest she could get was midnight. “Perfect,” she
thought to herself. She headed upstairs to her big bathtub and drew herself a
bath. She put her favorite lilac bubbles in, poured herself a glass of wine and
leaned back in the lilac bliss. An hour or so later, she heard the door slam shut.
Chase walked up the steps and stood in the doorway of her bathroom. “What,”
Angel said. “Having fun,” Chase asked. “Sure,” Angel said finishing her wine.
“You seem like you are in a better mood.” Chase pulled his shirt off. “Am
now,” he replied. “Don’t even,” Angel said. He slid his jeans off and walked
towards the tub. Angel slid back as Chase’s foot came into the tub. He slid in
behind her. “Chase,” Angel said. “Lean back,” he said wrapping his arms
around her. Angel added some more hot water to the tub. “Missed this,” Chase
said. “Okay. Not 15 minutes ago you were over there with Crystal. You two
were kissing and everything seemed fine. What are you doing here,” Angel
asked. He kissed her ear and his hands slid to her breasts. “Chase, seriously.
What happened,” Angel said. “We talked. She asked if we had slept together. I
told her no. She asked if I was in love with you and I lied to her. We were

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starting something, then Grant texted her,” Chase said. “So you just figured
you’d come over here and try to get me into bed,” Angel said. “Or into the
bathtub with me,” Chase teased. “Chase,” Angel said. His hand slid down to
her hip. “I know what you are trying to do. Cut it out,” Angel said leaning
forwards. He pulled her back towards him and kissed her neck. “Quit it,” Angel
said leaning forwards and stepping out of the tub. She grabbed her glass and
slid her robe on, heading back downstairs for a refill.
She headed back upstairs to get dressed and when she walked into the bedroom,
Chase was sitting on the edge of her bed. “Angel,” Chase said. “What can I do
you for,” Angel said grabbing her jeans and t-shirt from her bag. He got up from
the bed and walked towards her. Angel turned around to face him. He kissed
her and leaned her into the wall. He grabbed her legs and picked her up,
wrapping her legs around his waist. He carried her towards the bed. He leaned
her back onto the bed never breaking their kiss. He went to untie her robe and
she tried to stop him. He held her hands over her head and untied the robe.
“Chase. Stop it,” Angel said. “Your last night. Have to make it memorable,”
Chase said. “Last evening. My flight leaves at 12:15,” Angel said. “All the more
reason then,” Chase said. He kissed her and let go of her hands, sliding his
hands down her back. “You really want to ruin a good thing don’t you,” Angel
asked. “Nope. Making it better,” Chase said kissing Angel with a passionate,
deep, devouring kiss. She knew what he wanted. Truth be told, she was barely
finding the will power to resist. She felt him against her. There was no way she
was going to be able to walk away now. He grabbed for something from the
drawer then pulled her closer to him. “Don’t say no,” Chase said. “Oh what,”
Angel teased. He penetrated her. “Or we’ll have to teach you a lesson,” Chase
said as he started to make love to her. “We can’t………Chase, we can’t
be…..doing…….this,” Angel said. Chase’s phone rang, and so did her cell
phone. “Ignore them,” Chase said. “I can’t,” Angel said. She eased herself away
from Chase and grabbed the phone, pulling her robe back on.
“Just got your email,” Mark said. “Which one? The one that told you how I
can’t wait to get home or the one that said I was sitting in a bubble bath waiting
for you,” Angel teased. “You would have to add the visual,” Mark replied. She
grabbed her jeans and t-shirt from the bag and headed for the bathroom, locking
the door. “Well, what can I say. Had a one-track mind today,” Angel said.
“Can’t wait to see what you were writing,” Mark said. “Let’s say it was a little
more graphic than the emails I sent you,” Angel said. “You know Lila’s having a
nap right,” Mark said. “Was wondering why you called,” Angel said. “Figured I
would wait until she was out before I call you about those emails,” Mark said
with a grin ear to ear. “What about them,” Angel teased. “First question……
what are you wearing right now,” Mark said. Angel laughed. “Well, black lace
teddy…. Black boots that you love,” Angel said.

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“Chase, I need to talk to you,” Crystal said. “Why? You going to get me going
again and walk out this time,” Chase asked. “Chase,” she said. “What,” he
replied. “Come over….now,” Crystal said. “Oh. Now you’re all horny and
shit,” Chase said. “Now,” Crystal said. He hung up and sat there a moment. He
grabbed his jeans and tank top and pulled them on, then headed across the
street. He got to the door and she opened it. All she had on was a sheer white
teddy. “Dressing up for your boyfriend,” Chase asked. She closed the door
behind him and kissed Chase. “No. For my husband,” she replied. He picked
her up, wrapping her legs around his waist and carried her to their bedroom.
He’d thought instinctively of what he almost just did with Angel. He made love
to his wife. He wished through every movement it was Angel. He was careful
not to say her name. He knew how much that would crush Crystal. After, he
laid on his bed. The one he’d spent many a lonely night in dreaming of being
with Angel. Many a lonely night where he wished things with Crystal were
better. They were now – sort of. “Chase,” Crystal said. “Yes babe,” he replied.
“I think we should try this for real this time. I told him that our marriage was
important to me and that I wanted to work on it with you. That we were done,”
Crystal said. “That’s good. Hope you don’t change your mind,” Chase said. He
got up, cleaned up, got re-dressed and left. Crystal sat in shock. How the hell
was she going to fix this?
Chase walked in the front door of Angel’s place and saw her sitting in the
solarium. “Of all the sneaky things,” Chase said. “What,” Angel said. “They
have shitty ass timing don’t they,” Chase said. “What happened,” Angel asked.
“She decided she wanted me,” Chase said. “Don’t sound so damn happy about
it Chase,” Angel said. “I just don’t get her. Does it take an x-rated text from him
to get her all horny for me? Damn. It’s almost humiliating,” Chase said.
“Would you stop looking at the negative side. Maybe she was just stopping
because she wanted to put on something sexy for you,” Angel said. Like she
couldn’t have done that with me there. I just don’t get her at all,” Chase replied.
He opened a beer from the fridge and sat down with Angel. “So just when did
you move your flight up,” Chase asked. “While you two were having fun.
Really, I want to get home. I’ve been off work for a week already and I don’t
want to miss anything more,” Angel said. “Fine. Here’s the deal. I’ll really try
with Crystal. Will even go to couples therapy with her, but if things go south
with you and Mark you have to promise to tell me,” Chase said. “Fine, but if
things do go well, then you can’t up and walk out on her if things go bad with
me and Mark….and no more goofing around,” Angel said. “Not even just
smooching,” Chase asked. “I am leaving in 3 hours,” Angel said. “Then we need
dinner,” Chase suggested. “Something quick then to the airport then,” Angel
said. “Fine party pooper,” Chase said. Angel put the remainder of her things
into the bag, then they headed off to dinner, then the airport.

381. 2

382. 2
Chapter 42
Angel’s flight got in early. She grabbed her bag and headed for the taxis. She
checked her watch. It was only 11:00. She’d caught an even earlier flight, which
was perfect. He was going to get one heck of a surprise when she got home.
She’d picked up some lingerie before boarding the plane and slipped it on mid-
flight. She couldn’t wait to get home.
The cab pulled into the driveway and Angel grabbed her bag, paid and headed
for the front door. She opened it and headed inside. The alarm went off. She
thought to herself, “Now why would the alarm be on?” She turned it off and
walked inside. The entire place was quiet. She took her things upstairs. No sign
of Mark, and Lila wasn’t in her bed. The baby bag was even gone. Angel
walked over and checked the voicemail – two messages. “Mark, it’s Ashley. Call
me when you can hon. I need you to help me with something.” Angel took a
deep breath and headed for the wine. “Mark. It’s Denise. I’m in town and really
want to see you. Call me. I’m at the Marriott.” Angel’s blood started to boil.
She poured herself a big glass of wine, then headed outside with the bottle and
one of Mark’s packs of cigarettes. She lit one, then took a gulp of wine. “Please
don’t let it have happened. Don’t let him have done this after everything I have
done,” Angel said aloud. She sipped her wine and finished off her cigarette. She
heard the alarm go off again.
Mark saw the bags by the door and knew she’d come home early. It was almost
2am. He saw the cigarette smoke on the patio. He saw the glass and now half-
empty bottle of wine. He walked towards the door then saw the machine – 2
new messages. He skimmed through them. “Why the hell are these people
doing this to me,” Mark said. He walked outside. “Now what might you be
doing here so early,” Mark asked. Angel shot a look at him that could kill.
“What are you doing home so early baby,” Mark said sitting down next to her.
Angel got up and lit another cigarette. “Wanna tell me why there were those
two messages on the answering machine,” Angel asked. “Ashley was having a
problem with her man. She needed a guy’s opinion,” Mark said. “On,” Angel
asked. “I know what you’re thinking, and you’re wrong. Andy and I met up
with her and she got two opinions,” Mark said. “And the other message,” Angel
asked. “Denise being a freaking troublemaker. That’s all. I swear,” Mark said.
“I swear Mark. Every time I come home, it’s always to freakin’ drama,” Angel
said. “Lila is with my mom. They came down for a visit. I knew you were
supposed to be coming home in the morning and I wanted to surprise you,”
Mark said. “Yeah,” Angel said. She finished her glass of wine, then her
cigarette. “And since when are you smoking again,” Mark said ripping the
cigarette from her hands. He threw it out onto the sand.

383. 2
“Since I heard the damn messages that are a little too much. I can’t put up with
this shit anymore. Why the fuck do they have to….” He pulled her against him
and silenced her with a kiss. “Enough,” Mark said. He grabbed the bottle of
wine and her glass and grabbed her hand, leading her inside.
She followed him to the bedroom. “Mark, I am not kidding. One more
message,” Angel said. He kissed her and walked her backwards into their
bedroom and right into the corner post of their four poster bed. He put the wine
and the glass on the nightstand and slid her trench coat off. He noticed her
surprise. “Nice surprise,” Mark said. “I thought,” Angel said. He silenced her
with another deep, passion-filled kiss and dropped her trench coat to the ground.
“I missed you,” Mark said as he let her up for air. “Me too,” Angel said as he
kissed her again and he undid his jeans. She unbuttoned his shirt. She slid his
shirt off and pulled it to the floor. He dropped his jeans and kicked them off. He
picked her up, then leaned her onto their bed laying his body against hers. “Miss
me did you,” Mark said kissing her torso. He worked his way down. “Yes,”
Angel replied as he moved lower and his hand grazed her inner thigh. “So what
did you do while you were there,” Mark said. “Fixed Chase and Crystal and
wished I was home,” Angel said. “Good answer,” he said noticing how horny
she was. His fingers slid against her, then inside as he felt just how much she
wanted him. “All this just for me,” Mark asked. He kissed his way back up her
torso, sliding the lingerie off.
He kissed her and made love to her. Slowly, tenderly, passionately. They
cherished every moment, every movement, every touch and every kiss was filled
with love. “I missed you so bad,” Mark said. “I bet you did,” Angel teased as
they curled up beside each other and he pulled her close to him. “Now what
were you saying earlier,” Mark asked. “Can’t remember,” Angel said. He
leaned back and poured her a glass of wine and handed it to her. “So did you
like your surprise,” Angel asked. “Do I have to remind you,” Mark asked
kissing her shoulder. “Nope,” Angel teased. “Come with me for a minute,” she
said. “Where are you going,” he said as she slipped out of his arms and headed
for the bedroom door. She unlocked it and headed down the steps. She put the
wine and the bottle onto the table and grabbed two towels. She threw them onto
the swing. “Where are we going,” Mark asked still following her. She headed
for the ocean. “What are you,” Mark said as he noticed her dive into the water.
He dove in right behind her. He came up directly in front of her. “Nice idea
there sexy,” he said pulling her into his arms. She kissed him hard. “I missed
this body so much,” Mark said. “Missed you too Mark,” Angel said. He dunked
her into the water. They joked around and splashed a while then ran in for the
towels. Mark started a fire in their outdoor fire pit and they curled up with the
rest of the wine.

384. 2
“You know, I can’t believe you. You get me to do the craziest things,” Mark said.
“I know and you totally love me for it don’t you,” Angel replied. He kissed her
and pulled her into his arms. “Definitely baby. I’m all yours,” Mark said. “Oh
really,” Angel said. “Why? What are you thinking now,” Mark asked. Angel
went to get up, and Mark pulled her back into his arms. “Where are you going,”
he asked. “Come to the sand with me,” Angel said. They walked down to the
beach hand in hand. She stood in the sand looking into his eyes. “Promise me
one thing,” Angel asked. “What’s that,” Mark asked. “That there will be no
more messages, no more drama. No more worrying,” Angel said. “I promise
you babe. I’ll never ever let you go,” he replied. “Well, you might have to let go
a little. I do have to breathe,” Angel replied. He kissed her. “Nope. You’re
good,” he joked. “Now, I think it’s far past your bedtime little girl,” Mark said.
“What,” Angel said as he flipped her over his shoulder and carried her inside to
bed.
Angel laughed all the way up the steps. He laid her in bed and they curled up
together, falling fast asleep. The next morning, Angel woke up and Mark’s arms
were still tight around her. She smiled. Every move she made, he pulled her
closer to him. “I know you’re awake faker,” Angel said. “Really,” Mark said.
She could definitely tell by the feeling of him rock hard behind her that he was
definitely awake. “Now what time is the baby coming back,” Angel said. He
turned her to face him. “Lunch,” Mark replied kissing her. She wrapped a leg
around his. He pulled her close to him and made love to her. “Damn I missed
this,” Mark said. She had to admit it. Making love to him in the morning was
something she’d always loved. The feeling that he couldn’t wait to touch her, to
hold her in the morning told her that he wanted her. Nothing could change that.
She curled up in his arms. “Seriously though, I really missed this. Having you
in my arms, being close to you. I missed you,” Mark said. “I missed you too,”
Angel said. Her phone buzzed. “Bet you I know who that is,” Mark said. She
straddled Mark and answered her phone.
“Angel. Thank god I got you,” Chase said. “What can I do for you Chase,”
Angel said. Mark’s hands slid down to her backside. “She had him around the
damn kids Angel,” Chase said. “What do you mean,” Angel said. She leaned
forward and kissed Mark’s chest. “The kids asked me when uncle Grant was
coming over again,” Chase said. “He is one of your friends Chase,” Angel said.
Mark flipped her onto her back. “Not anymore he isn’t. I can’t believe her,”
Chase said. “Starting fresh remember,” Angel said. “Screw that. We just had a
damn fight about it,” Chase said. “Remember what I said Chase. You aren’t any
better for what you did,” Angel said. “We….as in the two of us making love
every morning and every night while you were here,” he said. Mark was kissing
down her torso and was kissing her hip. “As I said,” Angel replied. “Miss me

385. 2
yet,” Chase asked. “You have to go talk to her okay. She probably didn’t tell the
kids she was with him. Go,” Angel said. “My lips on you, teasing you into
letting me do what I want to you,” Chase said. “Go talk to her. I’ll talk to you
later,” Angel said hanging up. Angel didn’t want Chase to hear what was
happening. “Mmm,” Mark said. “I can’t believe you. Damn distraction and a
half,” Angel said. He got more intense, sliding two then three fingers inside of
her. “Hmmm. So that’s how to get you off the phone,” Mark teased. “You are
so gonna get it,” Angel said. He moved back up and she wrapped her legs
around his. “All this is mine. Damn. Better than winning the lottery,” Mark
said as he made love to Angel again.
Around lunchtime, Mark’s parents showed back up with Lila. “Mama,” she
screamed as soon as she saw Angel. She wouldn’t let go. “So how was your
trip,” Mark’s mom asked. “It was okay. Just helping a friend with something,”
Angel replied. “Well I can tell you, Mark missed you while you were gone. I’m
glad you made it back before we left though. Mark said you weren’t due back
until Tuesday,” his mom said. “Missed Mark and Lila too much to stay any
longer,” Angel said. Mark wrapped his arm around Crystal. “So how long are
you here for,” Angel asked. “Just until tomorrow. We wanted to come see all of
you for a few days. A little vacation from the ordinary,” Mark’s dad said. “So
are you having a good time,” Angel asked. “Definitely. And it’s good to see you
and Mark happy again,” his mom said. Angel wasn’t touching that one. “So
what are your plans today,” Angel asked. “We were going to head to the mall
for a while and pick up a few things for Mark’s sister that she needed,” his mom
said. “Thanks for looking after Lila last night mom. Really needed a night out,”
Mark said. “And what a nice surprise that you came home to,” his dad said.
They all chatted a while, then Mark’s parents headed out while Angel fed Lila
and put her down for a nap.
Mark let his parents out then headed upstairs. Angel was in their bedroom. She
hopped into the shower. The hot water beaded against her skin. It felt so good.
His mom’s comment had thrown her. She wanted to wash that feeling away that
she’d had at the beginning of the evening.
She’d had dinner with Chase at a restaurant they used to love. Afterwards, he’d
intentionally taken the long route to the airport. He stopped once or twice to try
to talk her into staying with him. When she put her foot down, he knew there
was little to no chance she was going to change her mind. No matter what he
did to try to convince her, she was set in stone. He stopped at the park where
Angel used to hide out with Chase. “Come for a walk,” Chase had asked. “I
know exactly what you are thinking Chase. Airport,” Angel said. He parked
and took the keys and walked out to the railing. Angel walked out, standing
beside him. “I know you think you need me Chase, but the two of you will be

386. 2
fine,” Angel said. He turned and leaned her into the railing and kissed her. “I
want you. Don’ t you get it,” Chase said. He untied her coat and wrapped his
arms around her torso. “Chase, I am going home to my husband,” Angel said.
His hand slid up her dress, pulling her g-string off. “Not if I can help it,” Chase
had said. She had sex with Chase in the truck, then talked him in to taking her to
the airport. He walked her to the gate, pleading with her the entire way.
“Angel,” Chase said. “I have to go Chase. There is no talking me out of it,”
Angel said. “You know things aren’t going to work with me and Crystal. Don’t
go. Stay with me,” Chase begged. Angel walked towards the gate. “Please,” he
said. Angel kissed him goodbye then went through the gate and hopped on her
plane. She’d been so tempted she couldn’t speak. She missed Mark and Lila, but
on the other hand, she really wanted to be with Chase. She did go home, but
almost kicked herself all the way.
She heard the door open. She turned off the shower and stepped out into her
towel. She wrapped it around her and brushed her teeth and then headed for the
bedroom. Mark came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her. “Snuck
away did you,” Mark asked. “Needed a long shower,” Angel said. “You know
you have a scratch on your back,” Mark said. “Really? Must have been when I
went for a walk down by the beach when I was up there. Jogged through a
wooded area,” Angel said. He put some lotion into his hands and rubbed her
shoulders and back. “Why are you all tense,” Mark asked. “Just tired probably,”
Angel said. She pulled on her jeans and t-shirt. “Where are you going,” Mark
asked. “Have an errand to run,” Angel said pulling her boots on. He pulled her
back into his arms. “Why don’t Lila and I go with you,” Mark asked. “I’ll be
back in an hour or two,” Angel said. She kissed him quickly and headed
downstairs. She grabbed her purse, then was out the door. She took off for the
drug store. She grabbed a pregnancy test. She had another pack of the other
things she needed, so she headed out. She got in the car, heading for a beachside
café she’d found months ago. She slipped into the washroom to do her test, then
sat down and had a glass of wine and waited for it. She looked down. She
couldn’t believe her eyes. It couldn’t be…
Angel finished her wine, then headed for the doctor. “I need to be sure,” Angel
said. She looked at her phone and realized she’d grabbed Mark’s and not hers.
It was ringing. She answered it. “Is Mark there,” A female voice asked. “Can I
ask who’s calling,” Angel asked. “It’s Ashley. He forgot something here the
other night,” she said. “What might that be,” Angel asked. “Who’s this,” Ashley
asked. “His wife,” Angel replied. She knew just where Ashley lived. It was
minutes from her doctor’s office. The phone clicked. Angel got the test done,
then asked for a rush and headed to Ashley’s house. She got there as Ashley was
about to walk out the door. “Now what is it that my husband left here,” Angel
asked. “I didn’t mean to cause a problem. I swear,” Ashley said. “What did he

387. 2
leave,” Angel asked insistently. Ashley handed Angel Mark’s tank top and his
wallet. “I swear to god. I thought you two were done and over Angel. I swear,”
she said. “You can have him,” Angel said handing the things back to Ashley.
Angel headed home. Mark got a call from the office and had to go in. He kissed
her goodbye and headed to his car. Angel walked upstairs and packed all her
clothes into the suitcases and put them in her trunk. She packed Lila’s clothes
and toys and put them in the back seat. She called Ashley. “Did you and
Mark…” She couldn’t even say it. “I swear. I thought you two were over. If I
had known, I wouldn’t have Angel,” she said. Angel put Mark’s phone down
and grabbed hers. She took the pictures from his drawer, her laptop and all her
things from the bathroom. She got Lila into her carseat and headed for the
airport. She paid the extra to have everything come with her. She got some
information on getting her car sent to her. “The next flight leaves in 2 hours,” the
attendant said. “Fine. How much,” Angel asked. She paid for her ticket and
went through the gate. She went to call Chase but couldn’t.
Her flight left and Lila slept through most of it. She got a rental pick up truck
from the airport and loaded everything in the back, then headed to the house.
Her phone rang. “No,” Angel said. It went to voicemail. She tucked Lila in
upstairs and parked in the garage, closing the door so Chase wouldn’t see. She
ducked in and sat down. The phone rang again. She ignored it.
There was a knock at the door. Angel looked at the door. The lock turned. She
tried to dry her tears so Chase wouldn’t see. “What the hell are you doing here,”
Chase asked. He looked and saw all the suitcases. “What happened,” Chase
asked. He looked over and saw the Kleenex. “Angel,” Chase asked. She got up
and walked past him. She headed for the fridge. He slammed it shut. “Angel,”
Chase asked. “No Chase. No,” Angel said. She tried to open the fridge again.
He grabbed her hand and wrapped it around him. “You’re here. Everything is
fine now. You’re where you belong,” Chase said. Her cell phone rang again.
“It’s a doctor. Do you want to take it,” Chase asked. She grabbed the phone.
“Angel? Your results came in. It’s true,” they said. “You need an ultrasound to
figure out how far along you are.” “I’m not home,” Angel said. “I figured that.
I tried to call and didn’t get any answer,” the secretary said. Angel fainted.
The next thing she knew, Angel was laying in a bed in the hospital. “You can say
whatever you have to say in front of me,” Chase was saying. “Sorry sir. We’ll
have to talk to her alone first,” the doctor said. Chase left the room and the
doctor came over to Angel. “Nice to see you’re awake. How are you feeling,”
the doctor asked. “Okay I guess. What’s going on,” Angel asked. “Well, I
assume it was all stress. You know that isn’t good for the baby,” the doctor said.
“How far along,” Angel asked. “6 weeks. Your friend said that’s the last time

388. 2
you were here,” the doctor said. “No. It can’t be right,” Angel said. “Almost 7,”
the doctor said. “This is insane,” Angel said. “Your friend is insistent on being
here. Is it okay if I let him in?” “Yes,” Angel replied. Chase came in and was
instantly at Angel’s side. “So what’s happening,” Chase asked. “7 weeks,”
Angel said. “That’s before you went home isn’t it,” Chase asked. “The last week
before I did,” Angel replied. Chase kissed her hand. “So, we’ll need a follow up
in a few weeks, but congratulations,” the doctor said. He left the room and
Angel was sitting there with a petrified look. “Angel,” Chase said. “This can’t
be happening,” Angel said. “It is,” Chase said. He kissed her. She pushed him
away. “What,” Chase said. “Go home to Crystal,” Angel said. She rolled over
and had tears streaming down her face. “Lila’s with Crystal. I am staying here
with you,” Chase said. “Go! Get out,” Angel said. Chase got up. “I’ll be back in
the morning okay. Sleep,” Chase said. The doctor came back in. “I thought you
might want to know, your blood alcohol isn’t good for the baby,” the doctor said.
“How soon can I do a paternity test,” Angel asked. “Next week, but you are
running a risk,” the doctor said. “Schedule it,” Angel replied and rolled over.

389. 2
Chapter 43
A week went by, and Angel refused to talk to anyone. After a few days, she got
the results back. She’d found something with Chase’s DNA on it and handed it
to the technician. It was a match. Angel left and headed for the beach. It was
the one place she thought of where she could hear herself think. Crystal was still
looking after Lila. Angel sat and looked at the water, remembering all the
memories she had with Chase. She heard a door slam. She just concentrated on
relaxing. “Where the hell have you been,” Chase said walking towards her.
“Just leave me be Chase,” Angel said. “Sorry. Can’t do that,” he said. “Chase,
just go and leave me alone,” Angel said. “Lila needs you Angel. You aren’t
walking away from me either,” Chase said. He sat down beside her. “So we’re
having a baby. It’s what was meant to be Angel,” Chase said. Her cell rang. “Hi
Angel. It’s Tracy from the lawyer’s office. I just wanted to let you know, the
papers are drawn up. Just let us know when you want us to send them,” she
said. “I will,” Angel replied. She hung up. “What was that,” Chase asked.
“Nothing,” Angel replied. She got up and walked back towards the path to the
house. “Angel, get in the damn truck,” Chase said. “No,” Angel replied. He
picked her up and put her in the passenger seat. “Why can’t you just leave me
alone,” Angel said. He started driving back to the house. “Because. I love you.
That’s why,” Chase said. “Everything I touch goes to shit Chase. Every
relationship goes to shit. I can’t be with you. It will ruin your life,” Angel said.
He carried her into the house and put her on her bed. He came back a while later
with something sure to make Angel feel better.
“Mama,” Lila said from the hallway. Angel wiped the tears from her face.
“Now tell me that you screwed up with her. Tell me that she isn’t the most
perfect little girl in the entire world,” Chase said. Angel wrapped her arms
around Lila and rocked her in her arms. She yawned. It was almost Lila’s
bedtime. “La you mama,” Lila said. “I love you too baby,” Angel said. She got
up and tucked Lila into her bed. Chase wrapped his arms around Angel. “Come
on. You need some dinner,” Chase said. His eldest daughter Missy came in.
“I’ll take care of her. I promise,” she said. “She’s asleep now. She should be
okay for the night,” Angel said. “Go daddy. I’ll be here and Crystal is just across
the street,:” Missy said. Chase handed Angel a dress. “Slip it on. I’ll be
downstairs with Missy,” Chase said. Angel put the dress on, slipped her heels
on and came downstairs. Chase slipped her sweater on over her shoulders and
they headed out. “Chase, I really am not in the mood for a fancy dinner out,”
Angel said. “Get in,” Chase said. Angel stepped into the truck and closed the
door. “Where are you dragging me to,” Angel asked. “Head on the shoulder
and relax,” Chase said. She did as asked.

390. 2
After a short drive, they pulled into the concierge area of a hotel. “Where are
we,” Angel asked. “Come on. We have a reservation,” Chase said. They walked
inside and headed for the dining room. “Chase,” Angel said. “Come on baby.
Got a hot date with you tonight,” Chase said. They headed to the dining room.
It was a quiet area, set aside for them, and only them. “Why here,” Angel said.
“Starting over with who you should have been with all along,” Chase said. They
sat down to dinner and Angel finally relaxed. She tried to chat, but the more she
tried, the harder it got. Angel got up after dinner and headed for the terrace.
“Angel,” Chase said. “It’s yours,” Angel said. “Definitely,” he asked. Angel
nodded. Chase wrapped his arms around her. “As it should be,” he replied.
“Chase, you and Crystal are supposed to be working it out, Mark and I are more
than done. I can’t do this. I can’t have this baby,” Angel said. “I’m here. I was
last time, and I am not going anywhere no matter how much you push. You are
stuck with me,” he said. A tear streamed down her cheek. Chase caught it and
brushed it away. “Dessert, then home for a bubble bath,” Chase said. Angel
nodded. He hugged her. “Everything’s going to be fine you know. I promise it
will,” Chase said. They went inside and finished dessert then headed back to the
house.
Angel walked in and Missy was asleep on the sofa. Lila was still out. Chase
carried Missy home and tucked her in, then came back over to the house to be
with Angel. “What about Crystal Chase,” Angel asked as she stepped into the
tub. “We decided that it was done. The kids know. The youngest two asked if
that meant that you and I were going to be together,” Chase said. “Great. More
stress,” Angel said. “I told them that you and I were best best friends. That I
was going to be there when you needed me no matter what. That I loved you a
lot and that you and Mark weren’t married anymore. Strangely, Missy was the
one that asked if I was going to marry you,” Chase said. “And what did you tell
her,” Angel said as the bubbles wrapped around her. “I told her I would let her
know,” Chase said. Angel splashed water at him. “You think so do you,” Chase
said as he dunked Angel in the water. “You are so going to get it,” Angel said.
“Good to see you laugh again,” Chase said. She got out of the tub and wrapped
the towel around her. He held her in his arms. “I’m on your side you know,” he
said. “I know. I just needed some time,” Angel said. “I erased your messages
for you,” Chase said. “How many,” Angel asked. “Too many. He’s going nuts,”
Chase said. “Told Missy not to answer the phone if she saw a California
number,” Chase said. “I have to call my girls Chase. They’re probably scared
too,” Angel replied. “It’s only 8 their time. Go call,” he said handing her the
cordless phone.
Angel called Aubrey and Raven first. They were two of the three most awesome
friends she had. She three-wayed the call. “Where the hell are you Angel,”
Raven asked. “All you guys need to know is I am fine. Everything is fine. Can’t

391. 2
really talk long. I just wanted to let you know I was okay. I’m going away for a
while,” Angel said. “Where the hell are you going that you can’t call,” Aubrey
asked noticing that the number had been blocked from their eyes. “Somewhere
quiet and away from all the bullshit,” Angel said. “Why do I think there’s more
to it then that,” Raven asked. “If Mark asks or anyone else asks, tell them that I
am fine and just wanted to be left alone. That I said I would get in contact with
you when I was ready for company,” Angel said. “Tell us where you are. We
won’t tell him Angel. Please,” they begged. “With a friend. I have to go. I love
you guys. You can still reach me on my email,” Angel said as she hung up.
She put the phone down. “Now. Feel better,” Chase asked. “No. Now they’re
definitely worried. I told them I was with a friend and that they couldn’t call,
but they could email me,” Angel said. “You know he’ll put a trace on the email,”
Chase said. “I know, and I am sure he’ll try to come up here. I have a better idea
Chase,” Angel said. He knew what she was thinking. “For a week or two at the
most,” Chase said. Angel nodded. “Changing the locks to the house in the
morning just in case, then we can go. Will have to let Crystal know though,”
Chase said. Angel kissed him. “Thank you Chase,” Angel said. “For,” he asked.
“For being you,” Angel said. He wrapped his arms around her. “So does that
mean that we’re okay now,” he asked. “Always were,” Angel said. He kissed
her again and picked her up in his arms and carried her to her bed. “Chase,”
Angel asked as he laid down beside her. “What,” he asked. “Where did I go
wrong,” Angel asked. “Trust me. It was so long ago you probably forgot. I
remember though. It was the minute you walked away from me all those years
ago,” Chase said. “Must have been,” Angel replied.
The next morning Angel woke up in Chase’s arms. The one place she felt safe.
She checked the clock. “Lila,” Angel said as she sat up. “She’s right here,” Chase
said. She was playing on the floor beside the bed. “Mama,” Lila said. Angel
picked her up and wrapped her arms around her. Lila kissed her. “The locks are
changed, and I put the new keys on your key ring. I took your rental back.
There was a call about your car. Should be here tomorrow,” Chase said. “Aren’t
you just organized,” Angel said. “Just making sure everything is okay for you.
Don’t want you to be under any more stress,” Chase said. He sat up next to her
and Angel leaned into his arms. “Cay. I la you,” Lila said. “Love you too
sweetheart,” Chase said. Angel’s phone rang. She shook her head. Chase
grabbed it – unknown number. He answered it.
“Is Angel there,” the voice said. “No,” Chase replied. “I know she’s with you.
Tell her I need to talk to her,” Mark said. “Don’t you get it? She doesn’t want to
talk to you. Stop calling. Cut the shit,” Chase said. “I need to talk to her Chase.
Now,” Mark said. He handed the phone to Angel. “What,” she said. “Angel,”
he asked. She hung up the phone. Lila had her arms wrapped around Angel.

392. 2
“That was a quick call,” Chase said. “The last one I am taking,” Angel replied.
She got up and got Lila changed and fed, then got changed herself and went
outside to play with Lila. Chase sat with her and talked. “So, when’s the next
doctor’s appointment,” Chase asked. “Two weeks,” Angel replied. “I am still in
shock. You know that right,” Chase said. “You and me both. Not sure how it
happened, but I’m just glad that it was you,” Angel said. Lila played in her
sandbox until she was completely tired out. Chase took her upstairs for a nap,
then came back outside with the monitor and sat with Angel. “I’m going to
make everything okay. You know that right,” he said. “I know. You’re the only
one who can right now,” Angel said. He heard a car pull into the driveway. He
went inside and stayed with Lila. He reversed the monitor the minute he saw
Mark get out of the car.
“Angel,” Mark said. He started walking into the back yard towards her. “Oh.
What the hell Mark. You had enough of your mistress and now you want me
back? Get the hell off my property,” Angel said. “You’re going to talk to me if I
have to hold you at damn gunpoint,” Mark said. He grabbed her arm. “Let go
of me Mark. It’s done. Finished. No more chances. No more anything. Go
home. Don’t ever call me again,” Angel said getting him to let go and walking
towards the door to the house. “You aren’t walking away. Not this time,” Mark
said. She walked into the house. He followed. “Least you could have done was
left me a note. Something,” Mark said. “Least you could have done was not lie
to me Mark. Not screw around. Be faithful, if you even know what that means,”
Angel said. She poured herself some lemonade and walked back outside.
“Where is my daughter,” he asked. “With a friend of mine,” Angel said.
“Really? Convinced her that Chase is her dad yet,” Mark asked. “No, because
he isn’t, although I wish he was,” Angel said. She walked back down to her
cabin. She grabbed the monitor. “You can’t walk away Angel. Not without an
explanation,” Mark said. “Ask Ashley what the explanation was Mark. Hope
you two are really happy. You lied to me for the last damn time. It’s done,”
Angel said closing the door and locking it. She called the lawyer and asked for
him to be sent the divorce papers. “He’s here if you want to serve him here,” she
said.
Angel came out a while later after calming herself. Mark grabbed her. “You
aren’t doing this. You aren’t going to live here forever. You can’t do this to me,”
Mark said. “It’s done. All my things are here. My car will be here in the
morning. Leave and get off my property Mark. Now,” Angel said. “I want to
see her,” Mark said. “Nope. No more Mark. You can just go make one with
someone else,” Angel said. She walked back towards the door to the house.
Mark grabbed her again. “Angel, you are my wife. There is no getting out of
that,” Mark said. “Yes there is Mark. You’ve been through it how many times
now? I’m done. Leave me alone. Go home. G o back to your play toys, and

393. 2
your stupid bars and your stupid life. I’m out of it. Done. Gone. Forever,”
Angel said. She walked into the house and locked the door, going upstairs to the
bedroom. Lila was still out cold. Chase came in and sat down beside her. “No
tears,” he said. “I feel 100 pounds lighter,” Angel said. Then the tears fell.
Chase went out the front door. Mark was on the step.
“Guess you got what you wanted didn’t you,” Mark said. “Fact is, you blew it.
She had me convinced to go back to Crystal. You blew it. She was going to stay
with you Mark. You just don’t get it do you? She loved you enough to stay
somewhere that caused her constant stress. She was willing to not come back
here. It was your fault Mark. All you,” Chase said. He went down the steps and
could feel Mark’s nasty stare. Chase turned. Mark came at him. “Leave my wife
alone Chase. I swear,” Mark said as he grabbed Chase by the throat. “Can’t do
that Mark. I am her friend. More than you ever were,” Chase said pushing Mark
away. Mark went to punch him and Chase ducked. He grabbed Mark’s hands.
“She wants you off the property Mark. Don’t come back,” Chase said. He
walked across the street to talk to Crystal. Mark went into the house. Chase
noticed and turned around running for the door.
“Angel,” Mark said at the bedroom door. Lila was in her arms. “Give her to
me,” Mark said. “No. She’s asleep Mark. Get out,” Angel said quietly so as to
not wake Lila up. She got up and tucked Lila back into her crib and closed the
door, locking it. “Angel,” Mark said. “Didn’t I tell you to leave? Don’t you get
it Mark? You’re done. We’re finished. Over. Finito. Get out,” Angel said.
“No,” he said pushing her into the wall. “Get off of me Mark. I swear to god.
You even think about it,” Angel said. He silenced her with a kiss. “No,” Angel
said pushing him away and heading for the steps. Chase was half way up.
“Go,” Chase said. She went downstairs and sat in the solarium. “Mark, this is
the last time I am saying it. Get out or I am calling the cops,” Chase said. “Lila is
my damn daughter Chase. I have the right to be here,” Mark said. “No. This
isn’t your property Mark. It’s hers. Go,” Chase said. “Let me talk to her at least.
I have to straighten this out with her. I can’t leave it like this,” Mark said. “She
doesn’t want to talk to you Mark. Can’t you tell that? Just leave her alone. Go
home,” Chase said. “No. I am staying in town until she talks to me. Even if it
takes me coming here every damn day and every damn night for a month,”
Mark said. “Well, then you’ll be wasting a lot of gas Mark. She doesn’t want to
see you and definitely doesn’t want to talk to you,” Chase said. “Well I guess I
will just have to wear her down won’t I,” Mark said. He walked down the steps
and headed towards the solarium. Chase was right behind him. “Leave,” Chase
said. “How dare you tell me what to do in my own house,” Mark said. Chase
opened the door and pushed him out, locking it behind him. Mark walked
around the back of the house. “Angel,” he said as he stood on the patio. She
ignored him as best she could.

394. 2
There was a call on her cell. “Is he still there,” the woman asked. “Out back.
You’re not doing it here are you,” Angel asked. “We were going to wait until he
went to his hotel, but he never checked into one,” the woman said. “Give me 30
minutes, then do it,” Angel said. She went upstairs and threw a few days worth
of clothes and diapers into a bag. “My truck is across the street. I’ll grab the
food. Bring whatever you need. I’ll meet you out there,” Chase said as he left,
locking the door behind him and ran across the street.
Not 10 minutes later, Chase came back. “Truck’s loaded. She up,” Chase asked.
Angel nodded. She got Lila and headed out the front door. He locked it behind
her and threw her bags in the truck. Mark was on the patio on the step. The
process server showed as Angel and Chase pulled off. “Mark Scott? You’ve
been served,” she said. “What’s this,” he asked. “Please sign here,” she said
then left. He opened the envelope. The minute he saw the papers, he went
ballistic. “Angel! Get out here,” he screamed. He looked and the lights were off.
She was gone. He sat on the front step the rest of the afternoon hoping she’d
come back. When she didn’t return, he checked himself into a hotel. It wasn’t
going to end this way. He was determined that it wouldn’t.
Angel and Mark checked into a hotel by his work. “Why don’t we just go to the
cottage now,” Angel said. “Work. I have to be there tonight,” Chase said. “You
know he’s going to show up,” Angel said. “Doesn’t matter. I’m not leaving you
here,” Chase said. “Who’s going to look after Lila,” Angel said holding her close.
There was a knock at the door – Missy.
“No matter what, don’t answer the phone or the door. I’ll call your cell phone if
we need to get a hold of you,” Chase said as he tucked Lila into her bed. “I don’t
want to leave her Chase,” Angel said. “Better off together,” Chase said. “She’ll
be fine. I’ll see you later daddy,” Missy said. Lila was out cold, but Angel was
still frazzled. She came out of the bathroom in her pink dress that Chase loved.
“Perfect,” he said. “I don’t know Chase,” Angel said. “Catch,” he said tossing a
small black velvet box to her. She caught it and opened it. She took the item
from the box, slipping her wedding rings into it. She put it in her suitcase, then
they headed out.

395. 2
Chapter 43
They walked into the bar and he held her hand tight. She sat in a corner table in
the back. She scoured the room for Mark. Nothing. No sign of him anywhere.
“You’ll be fine. We won’t be here too long,” Chase said. He went to the meeting
and Angel was left by herself. A half hour went by, and as she sipped her drink
– of course a non-alcoholic drink. She finally started to calm down when he
came walking towards her. “Angel,” Mark said. She tried to get up and find
Chase, but Mark grabbed her arm. He took her up the stairs and outside.
Chase’s friend saw and went to find Chase.
“Let go Mark,” Angel said. “What the hell is the big idea Angel? You don’t
want me to sign these. I know you don’t. You don’t want to be without me any
more than I want to be without you,” he said. “Leave me alone Mark. I’m not
coming back. Never,” Angel said. “I guess I’ll be moving here too then,” he
replied. “No Mark. Go home. Go back to your girlfriends and your lovers. I
don’t want to have anything to do with it,” Angel said. She sat down on the
steps at the front door. “What is wrong with you? This isn’t you. Tell me what
you want me to do Angel. I’ll do anything,” Mark said. “Sign them and leave
then,” Angel said. She ran inside and straight for the bathroom. He followed
her and stood outside the door. She came out a few minutes later and headed
back downstairs to meet Chase. Mark followed her. He grabbed her hand half-
way down the steps. “Angel, what is going on,” Mark said. She shrugged him
off. She got downstairs and Chase was right in front of her. “Mark, get the hell
out of the club,” Chase said. “She’s my wife, and I’m not leaving until she tells
me what’s going on,” Mark said. Angel ran for the washroom again. “Chase,
either you tell me or I will drag it out of her,” Mark said.
She came out a few minutes later and took the back stairs outside. Mark ran out
after her, followed by Chase. “Angel. Stop,” Mark said. She went for the truck.
Chase unlocked the doors and she got in and locked them. “Angel, what is
going on,” Mark said. “Just leave her alone Mark. She’ll talk when she is ready
to,” Chase said. “She’s my wife Chase. Butt out,” Mark said pushing him out of
the way. Angel looked at Chase. He mouthed the words “Tell him”. Angel
shook her head. He pointed to himself. Angel shook her head again. “Mark,
just leave her alone tonight okay. She needs to relax. No stress,” Chase said.
“Why Chase? What the hell is stressing her? The fact that she’s leaving me? The
fact that she ran away with everything? The fact that she’s hiding from me?
What the hell is so damn stressful Chase,” Mark asked. “She was told no damn
fucking stress. That means you. Now get the hell out of here Mark,” Chase said.
He saw Angel cringing in the front seat. “What’s wrong with her,” Mark asked.
Chase turned and noticed. He went and got in the truck and took off to the
hospital. Mark followed in his car.

396. 2
“Miss Heart? Are you awake,” the nurse asked. Chase was nowhere in sight.
“Where’s Chase,” Angel asked. The nurse went into the hall. “One visitor at a
time. She’s asking for Chase,” the nurse said. Chase came running in. “Are you
okay baby? Please tell me you’re okay,” Chase said. The nurse closed the door
and locked it. “She’s fine. The baby’s fine too. Your stress level is really high
though. We gave you something to calm you that wouldn’t hurt the baby. I’m
going to go get the doctor. There’s a guard outside so there will be no more than
one visitor at a time,” she said. “Then you better grab a bed for me because I am
not leaving her side,” Chase said.
The nurse left and Chase sat in the bed beside Angel and wrapped his arms
around her. “Lila,” Angel said. “I called Crystal. She’s going to look after her
until you get home,” Chase said. “I need to see Lila,” Angel said. “I’ll get
Crystal to bring her down later,” Chase said. Angel put her head on his
shoulder. The doctor came in. “Hello again Angel,” the doctor said. “Hi,” she
replied. “I guess I don’t have to ask you what was causing the stress. You have
to try to lower your stress Angel. No matter what or you are going to lose the
baby,” the doctor said. “I’ll take care of her. I promise. The most stress she’ll
have is what bubble bath to use,” Chase said as Angel held him tighter. “I guess
congratulations are in order. That’s a beautiful ring,” the doctor said. “Almost
as beautiful as my Angel,” Chase said. Tears came down her face. “Still sore,”
the doctor said. Angel shook her head. “I’ll leave you two then. The guard is
going to be here until you head home. Might want to talk to that gentleman in
the hall before he freaks out though,” the doctor said. “He can damn well wait
forever,” Chase said. The doctor left and left Chase alone with Angel. “I can’t
Chase. It’s only going to make him worse. You know it will,” Angel said.
“Shhh,” Chase said. “Do you want me to talk to him,” Chase asked. “Guess you
have a death wish,” Angel said. “Okay. I get it. I’ll tell the doc to talk to him.
Tell him that you are not to have any stress whatsoever. Will that work,” Chase
said. “I’m not going to be in here alone with him Chase. I know what he’ll do. I
know he’ll try to convince me to come back. I just can’t,” Angel said. “I’ll talk to
the nurse next time she comes in. Just relax,” Chase said.
An hour or two later, Mark was still pacing the hall. The doctor came over to
talk to him. “I will let you in there for 10 minutes. Her stress level goes up, and
you are out of there. Chase is keeping her calm for now. No stress. None,” the
doctor said. Mark went in and handed her the flowers he’d bought as he paced
the halls.
“Can we be alone,” Mark said looking at Chase. “No,” Angel said. “Are you
going to tell me what’s going on,” Mark asked. “My stress level is too high.
They’re trying to figure out why my blood pressure keeps shooting up. All they
know is it’s related to my stress level,” Angel said. “And the reason why you ran

397. 2
off to be sick to your stomach,” Mark asked. She gripped Chase’s hand tight.
“I’m pregnant,” Angel said. “We are? Oh my god baby. This is great news,”
Mark said. “Lila’s going to have a little brother or sister.” “She will but it won’t
be a full one,” Angel said. “What do you mean,” Mark said. “It’s not yours
Mark. It’s mine,” Chase said. “No it isn’t Chase. Angel and I wanted to have
another baby. It’s mine,” Mark said. “Just go okay Mark. Please,” Angel said.
“You telling me that you and Chase,” Mark asked. “Once,” Chase said. “And
you are getting pissed at me? Gees Angel,” Mark said trying not to raise his
voice. “You’ve cheated on her how many times,” Chase said. “None of your
business,” Mark said. “Just go Mark. Leave me alone,” Angel said. “How sure
are you that it’s his,” Mark asked. “Got a test done,” Angel said. “They can be
wrong you know. You know damn well it’s mine,” Mark said. “Can you leave
her be now Mark. Let her relax,” Chase said. “I’m not going home. Not until I
know 100%. Don’t think those papers are going to get signed either,” Mark said.
“Just go,” Chase said. “I’ll be back tomorrow. I want to be here,” Mark said. He
finally left and Angel burst into tears.
The doctor and nurse came in a while later. “Can we get her out of here tonight?
I promise I will be in contact with you and close to a hospital if anything
happens,” Chase said. “I take it that your chat didn’t go too well,” the doctor
said. “No,” Chase said. “5am. I can get her transferred,” the doctor said.
“Where,” Chase asked. “The city. To the hospital. I’ll have to sign her in
though,” the doctor said. “Sign her in as Angel Lockheart,” Chase said. “I will,
but this isn’t protocol Mr. Lockheart,” the doctor said. “I know. Just please. For
her,” Chase said looking over at Angel asleep. He nodded and Chase went back
to be with Angel.
The next morning, at 4:30, they transferred Angel to another hospital. It was
closer to Angel’s parents, but far enough away that Mark would have no idea
where to look. Mark showed up at 7am, and realized she’d been discharged.
They didn’t say that she’d been transferred.
Angel got settled in the other hospital and Chase brought Lila in to see her mom.
“Mama,” Lila said. Angel wrapped her arms around Lila. “Tell Crystal I said
thank you,” Angel said with tears streaming from her eyes. “Tell her yourself.
She’s here,” Chase said. “Crystal,” Angel said. She ducked her head in. “How
are you feeling,” Crystal asked. “A little better. The headache is gone,” Angel
said. “Good. Chase will take super good care of you,” Crystal said. “Thank you
for everything,” Angel said. “I’ll come back later and pick her up. Don’t worry
about a thing,” she said heading out. Chase followed her to the hall.
“Really, thank you,” Chase said. “If she makes you happy Chase, then that’s all I
can ask. Maybe we are better off. I love you, but we just aren’t in love

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anymore,” she said. “I love you too. I hope you two are happy too,” Chase said.
He hugged her then came back into the room with Angel.
Lila was playing with her toys on the bed with Angel. “Well what do you know.
You can take her anywhere,” Chase joked. Lila handed him a toy. “Thanks,”
Chase said. “So how are you feeling,” Chase asked. “Seriously, better but
worried. The minute we get back to that house he’s going to be all over me,”
Angel said. “No he won’t. Trust me,” Chase said. “You know I’m right Chase,”
Angel said. “He won’t be there Angel. He’s staying at that little hotel in town.
He won’t be there long,” Chase said. “Then he’ll be thinking he’s staying at the
house and I can’t go back there if he is,” Angel said. “It will all be fine. Just
concentrate on Lila and the new baby. I’ll take care of everything else,” Chase
said. “You have your phone,” Angel asked. “Yeah, why,” Chase asked. “Give it
to me,” Angel said. He handed it to her and she made a call. “He’s up here. Can
you keep an eye on him? Need to know that the house is secure,” Angel said.
She hung up a few minutes later. “Your P.I. friend,” Chase asked. Angel
nodded.
The next day, Angel was released from the hospital. They headed back to the
house. No sign of Mark anywhere. Angel breathed a sigh of relief. Chase
brought her and Lila in, and locked the doors behind him. He took Lila upstairs
and tucked her into bed, and Angel sat down in the solarium. Chase came back
down and curled up on the sofa with Angel. “See, just like I said. No stress at
all,” Chase said. He rubbed her shoulders. “Chase, I just wish,” Angel said. “I
know. This is how it is Angel. We were meant to be. We both know it. We
couldn’t hide it anymore than he could hide that he cheated over and over again.
Just relax. He’ll sign them and leave us alone eventually. He won’t stay up here
until the baby’s born. We’ll figure out something to get him to leave,” Chase
said. “Guess that’ll be your pet project won’t it,” Angel said laughing. “It’s good
to hear you laugh,” Chase said. They curled up together and relaxed on the sofa
until Lila woke up from her nap.
The minute she woke up, Chase headed upstairs to get her. He brought her
downstairs, and they curled up together on the sofa. The minute Chase sat
down, there was a knock at the door. Angel got up with Lila in her arms. Chase
went and answered the door. “Where is she,” Mark asked. “Guess you don’t
remember what the doctor said,” Chase replied. “Where is she,” Mark repeated.
Angel stood in the solarium. “Can’t you just leave her alone Mark,” Chase
asked. “She’s pregnant Chase. You know damn well it’s mine. I’m still married
to her. Get out of my way,” Mark said. He pushed his way in the door and saw
Angel. He walked towards her. “You want to see her fine. Here,” Angel said
handing Lila over. “Angel,” Mark said. “Don’t touch me. Why can’t you just go
home and “play” with someone else? Just get out of here,” Angel said. He

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grabbed her arm. “We need to talk…..alone,” Mark said. “I’ll take Lila outside. I
mean it Mark. No stress or else,” Chase said heading outside with Lila in his
arms.
Angel sat down on the big comfy chair she loved. Mark sat down in the other
chair beside her. “I didn’t sleep with her Angel. I was there, and was asleep on
the sofa, but I didn’t have sex with her. I swear,” Mark said. “Enough of the
lying Mark. Enough,” Angel said. She took a deep breath and tried to calm
herself. “I knew you had been with Chase,” Mark said. “Fine,” Angel said. “I
thought we were trying Angel. You and me. What happened to us,” Mark
asked. “You. That’s what happened. I was going to walk away from this. From
Chase and this house. When I came home and saw the voicemails, I was pissed.
When I left to go out, I grabbed your cell by mistake. Do you know how many
women called that day Mark? It wasn’t only Ashley. She’s the only one that
would admit it Mark. She thought we weren’t together anymore. That tells me
that you never said you were married Mark. You don’t want this anymore than I
do,” Angel said. “I am not losing you. I am not going through a divorce again.
We were meant to be. We are supposed to be together forever,” Mark said.
“You blew it more times than I can count,” Angel said. She took a deep breath
again and exhaled. “That was the past Angel. I swear to you I haven’t. Tell me
that you don’t really want this. That you don’t want a divorce,” Mark said. “Go
home Mark. I’ll let you know when the baby’s born and you can get a test done
to prove that you aren’t the daddy. Just leave me alone okay. Please,” Angel
said. “I told you I wouldn’t leave your side Angel. Not this time,” he said. “I’m
asking you for the last time Mark. Go,” Angel asked. “Answer is no,” he
replied. Angel walked towards the door and opened it. He tried to kiss her and
she turned her face. He held her face in his hands and kissed her. “I love you,”
he said. “Too little too late,” Angel said. He wrapped his arms around Angel,
closed the door, and leaned her against the wall. He kissed her again and held
her close to him. “I am not leaving town Angel. I want to be here with you. If
you don’t want me in the house, fine. I’m not going back without you,” Mark
said. He kissed her again. She opened the door and he left without a fight.
Chase came back in a while later, and Angel was laying on the sofa reading.
“Didn’t hear any screaming. Everything okay,” Chase asked. “For the most part,
yes,” Angel replied. “What happened,” he asked as he cleaned off Lila’s hands.
“He won’ t leave until the baby’s born and I prove to him that he isn’t,” Angel
said not wanting to say it in front of Lila. “But,” Chase said. “He promised no
more stress or acting stupid,” Angel said. “And the papers,” Chase asked.
Angel shook her head. “And he won’t go back to California,” Angel replied.
“Still want to go to the cottage,” he asked. “No. Would rather be close to the
hospital just in case,” Angel said. “Where baby,” Lila said. Angel looked at
Chase. “You said it not me,” Chase replied. “In mommy’s tummy,” Angel

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replied. “No, tummy is in tummy,” Lila said. “Baby is too,” Angel said.
“Where,” Lila asked. Angel took her hand and placed it on her stomach. “Hi
baby,” Lila said. Angel and Chase giggled. Lila gave Angel a big hug, then she
jumped off the sofa and went and played with her toys.
“You’re the one with the big mouth,” Chase joked. Angel threw a pillow at him.
Angel got up to try to put something together for dinner. “What do you think
you’re doing,” Chase asked. “Getting close to dinner. Was going to put
something together,” Angel said. “You can walk right back over to that sofa,”
Chase said. “I’m not an invalid,” Angel said. She leaned against the counter.
Chase leaned against her and kissed her. “Now go before I make you go to bed,”
Chase said. He kissed her again and she went and sat down with Lila. “You
can’t be doing this every day Chase. You have work to do,” Angel said. “Did it
this morning. You are to relax today and that’s that,” he replied. He walked
over to her and kissed her again. “Everything’s going to be perfect,” he said.
Chase put on a movie for them and curled up with Angel. About a half hour
later, the kids came running across the street.
Chase opened the door the minute he heard their voices. “Hi dad,” they said
running into the house. “Hi Angel,” they said as they all sat down to hang out
with Lila and Angel. Chase gave Angel a look. She knew it was too early to tell
the kids. Besides, how would they ever explain this? “So how was school,”
Chase asked them. “Good,” they all replied. “Are you feeling better Angel,”
Missy asked. “A little,” Angel replied. “They demanded to come over. I could
make them all go home if you want,” she whispered. “For a little while, it’s
okay. Still not 100% yet,” Angel said. “Crystal said she had to go grab
something for dinner,” Missy said. “Why don’t you guys play in the back,”
Chase suggested. “Can we bring Lila,” they asked. “If you stay in sight and
keep a close eye on her,” Angel said. The kids all ran outside to play and Chase
curled up with Angel. “Why won’t you let me tell them,” he asked. “Gee. They
all take sex ed now don’t they? They’ll figure it out Chase. I’m not telling them
it’s Mark’s either. Don’t want him figuring that he can dig his damn claws in,”
Angel said. Chase kissed her. “No thinking about that,” he said. He kissed her
again. “They’ll see Chase,” Angel said. He pulled her to him and kissed her
deeper, stronger and more intensely than he had before. “Who cares if they see,”
Chase said. He held her in his arms. Angel leaned into him. “Seriously though.
We can’t be doing this in front of them,” Angel said. Missy came running inside.
“You guys having fun,” Chase asked. “Yep,” she replied. “Angel? Are you
going to marry my Dad?” Angel pinched Chase’s arm. He laughed. “Maybe
someday I’ll be able to talk her into it,” Chase said. Angel smacked his arm.
“You like my Dad don’t you,” Missy asked as she came over and sat with Angel
and Chase. “Of course I do,” Angel said. “Then,” she asked. “I am…” Chase

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shook his head. “Maybe,” Angel said. “Do you love my Dad,” she asked.
“Enough with the Spanish inquisition,” Chase said. “Of course I love your Dad.
I love all of you too,” Angel replied. “Dad and Crystal aren’t together anymore,
so why not,” she asked. “Okay pushy pants. Go outside and keep an eye on the
kids,” Chase said. She headed back outside. “She does have a point you know,”
Chase said. “Would you cut it out,” Angel said jokingly. His hand slid down
her v-neck sweater. She slapped his hand. “So you never did answer her,”
Chase said. Angel went to get up and Chase pulled her back into his arms. “The
idiot that just left is the reason why,” Angel said. “It’s only a 30 day waiting
period here,” Chase said. “He’s not going to do it Chase,” Angel said. “Do you
have the test results,” he asked. “Yeah, but there not 100% Chase,” Angel said.
“99% is close enough,” Chase said. “Try 97.5%,” Angel said. “Still, would be
enough to make him go away,” Chase said. “I don’t want to deal with him any
more today,” Angel replied. “Sounds like a plan then,” he said as he kissed her
again. “You know this is how this happened in the first place,” Angel said. “I
know,” Chase replied.

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Chapter 44
The next morning, Angel woke up to breakfast in bed with her two favorite
people. Lila was cuddling with Chase, and he was in bed beside Angel. “You
two did all of this for me,” Angel said. Lila nodded. “You made the toast all by
yourself didn’t you sunshine,” Chase said to Lila. “Yep,” she replied. “It’s the
best toast ever,” Angel said tickling Lila. Angel drank her orange juice and took
her vitamins, and within minutes, there was a knock at the door. Chase put Lila
down with Angel and went downstairs to get the door. It was an envelope for
Angel. Chase signed for it and took it upstairs to Angel. She opened it.
Thought you’d want a copy of the results.
Angel smiled. One less thing she was going to have to do that day. She got up
and got herself and Lila showered and dressed for the day, while Chase cleaned
up downstairs. The minute he turned the water off, he heard a knock at the
door. Chase walked over and opened it, knowing full well it was Mark.
“Where’s my daughter,” he asked. “With her mother. You stay here,” Chase
said. He headed upstairs to tell Angel that Mark was there. “This mess can all
be over today and done with,” Chase said. “Not until he brings her back here,”
Angel said. “Good point,” Chase said. He grabbed the baby bag and Lila and
brought them downstairs and handed her over to Mark. “Dinner is at 6. She
needs to be back by 5:30,” Chase said. “She’s my damn daughter. I know that,”
Mark said. “If you aren’t back Mark,” Chase warned. “I told you and her both.
I am not leaving this country without both of them with me,” Mark said. “Fine.
See you at 5:30,” Chase said. He handed Mark the car seat and closed the door
behind him and Lila.
He walked upstairs and saw Angel in Lila’s room. All her clothes were hung
perfectly in the closet. Everything was like a picture. Angel was in the glider.
“You okay baby,” Chase asked. Angel nodded. He kneeled down in front of her
and wrapped his arms around her. “I love you,” he said. “I love you too,” Angel
said. “I have to go into the office. You going to be okay today,” Chase asked.
Angel nodded. He kissed her. She got up and walked him to the door. “I’ll be
back around 4,” Chase said. Angel nodded. He kissed her again, leaning her
against the wall by the doorway. She tried to lure him into staying but he
headed out and to the office.
Angel spent the day relaxing, getting writing done, and concentrating on some
work she had put off for too long now. The minute she logged into her
computer, she was swarmed with emails from her girlfriends. Their questions
blew her away. “Where are you?” “Are you really with Chase?” “Mark told us

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that he was coming to get you back. What’s going on?” “Are you just taking a
vacation?” “When can we come see you?” It was all so much. She knew she
had to tell them, but finding a way to delicately do it was going to be the hardest
part. She figured instead of emailing, she would let them get all their questions
out in person. She called them one by one.
Raven was one of the first calls. “What is going on Angel? Mark’s disappeared
and Rodney is looking after the house. Where are you two now,” she asked.
“We aren’t anywhere. I am at my house, and Mark is who the hell cares where,”
Angel said. She knew she was letting her anger show. “Whoa. Slow down a
minute. What the hell is going on with you two,” Raven asked. “Couldn’t stay
on his best behavior. I’m here, and attempting to move on with my life,” Angel
said. “Tell me you two aren’t really…” “As soon as I can, I am cutting my ties to
him. Done,” Angel said. “He didn’t. Tell me he didn’t do it again,” she said.
“He did. I am here with Chase and I’m not going to be heading back anytime
soon,” Angel said. “So you did go up there. Now what’s this about Chase,”
Raven asked. “He asked me to marry him. End of discussion,” Angel replied.
“Oh my god. Tell me you are kidding? Mr. Hottie all yours? Damn,” Raven
said. As soon as Angel said it she wanted to kick herself. “I’m going to add
Aubrey into this. One sec,” Raven said. Within minutes, they were both trying
to convince Angel into taking Mark back. “Not to be rude, but you two really
have no idea what’s going on. I came back from helping Chase and there were
messages on the home machine from women saying they wanted him and
missed him. I grabbed his damn phone the last day by mistake and got call after
call from people. Then one left a message saying he’d left something behind at
her place the night before. Don’t tell me I am doing the wrong thing okay,”
Angel said. “Let us come and see you at least. Either that or you need to take a
trip back here,” Aubrey said. “Not going to happen. I can’t really fly right
now,” Angel said. “Meaning,” they asked. “I can’t keep dragging Lila back and
forth. Secondly, I just got out of the hospital yesterday. I can’t do much right
now,” Angel said. She knew what they had to be thinking. “If you need
anything, just call us okay,” Aubrey said. “Thanks,” Angel said and quickly got
off the line.
When Angel heard the door, she just assumed it was Chase. Then she heard Lila.
Angel turned and saw Mark. He put her down and she headed for her toys.
“Angel, please don’t do this to us,” he said walking towards her. “You did it
Mark. You and only you,” Angel said getting up and putting on the hot water
for some tea. “Please,” he said wrapping his arms around her waist. “Back off
Mark. This is one time you aren’t getting your way,” Angel said. “You know
damn well that this baby is mine,” Mark said. “No Mark. I know the opposite.
It isn’t yours. Secondly, even if it was, I don’t want you in my life anymore. Got
it,” Angel said. She heard the kettle whistle and poured some hot water for her

404. 2
tea, then went and sat back down on the sofa. Mark sat down with her. “You
can’t really mean that. I know you don’t,” he said. “I’m done. Finished. There
is no more me and you Mark,” Angel said. “You can’t find it in your heart to
forgive me,” Mark said. “Nope. Heart’s out of forgiveness right now,” Angel
said. “What can I do to change your mind,” he asked leaning on her shoulder
and into a laying down position. He kissed her and held her close to him. She
pushed him away and got up from the sofa. “Angel. Why the hell do you have
to make everything so damn difficult. I’m trying to freakin apologize to you.
I’m trying to tell you that I don’t want to be without you okay,” Mark said. “No.
It’s not okay. You did what you did for the last time Mark. I’m not doing this
again. We are having a baby – me and Chase. That’s all there is to it,” Angel
said. “I’m not giving you the damn divorce,” Mark said. “Oh, you aren’t going
to have a damn choice Mark. Get out of my house. Stay out,” Angel said. “This
isn’t over,” he said. Angel opened the door and pushed him out, slamming the
door in his face.
Angel got some dinner together for Lila and fed her. Chase still wasn’t back.
She gave Lila a bath and tucked her into bed, then came downstairs and made
herself some dinner. He walked in around 7.
“Was wondering when you would be back,” Angel said. “Got dragged to a
meeting,” Chase said. He came over and kissed Angel. “Everything okay while
I was gone,” he asked. “Sure if you count him trying to talk me out of the
divorce yes,” Angel said. “I forgot all about that. Damn. If he stressed you, I
swear I am kicking his butt,” Chase said. “Nothing that you can’t help with,”
Angel said. He leaned her against the counter’s edge and kissed her. “Missed
you today,” he said. “Missed you too,” Angel replied. “So seriously though. He
didn’t cause you any stress did he,” Chase asked. Angel shook her head. “Now
my girlfriends are a complete other story,” Angel said. “What did they say
now,” Chase asked. “They needed to know that Mark and I were done. I told
them I was staying here with you and that I wouldn’t be flying anytime soon. I
have a feeling they may come up here,” Angel said. “Ah well. The more the
merrier,” Chase said. He kissed her again. “Did you have dinner,” he asked.
“Yep, but I saved you some. It’s in the oven,” Angel said. He kissed her again.
“I missed you,” he said as he unbuttoned her sweater. “Guess you aren’t that
hungry,” Angel said.
He kissed her again and picked her up, as she wrapped her legs around his
waist. He walked towards the steps to the bedroom. He laid her down on the
bed, quietly closing the door. “I missed this,” Chase said as he slid her sweater
off and kissed her torso. She pulled his tie off and unbuttoned his shirt as he
pulled it off, dropping it to the floor. He slid the strap of her dress from her
shoulder and slid the dress off of her. “Now I have you all to myself. All mine.

405. 2
Forever,” Chase said kissing her neck. “Not quite Chase. Still a few loose ends
for us both to tie up,” Angel said. He kissed her and quieted her snap of reality.
“Soon enough. All mine,” he said kissing down her torso to her stomach. He
slid her g-string off, dropping it to the floor. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed his
way back up to her lips. His body pressed against hers. She felt every perfectly
toned muscle holding her, wanting her. “What can I do for you,” he asked. “I
couldn’t give him the report. He was here. He tried to talk me into…” Chase
kissed her. “There is no Mark. Just you and me. No stress. Just us tonight,”
Chase said as she felt him against her. He took his time that night, cherishing
every taste, every movement. Every time her body throbbed, he wanted her
more.
The next morning, Angel woke up to Chase’s cell phone ringing. She grabbed it
and answered. She looked at the call display and opened it to end the ringing.
“Chase,” the voice asked. “He’s sort of in the middle of something. Can I pass
him a message,” Angel said. “Tell him it’s Carrie. He left something here last
night before he left. Thought it might be important,” she said. “I could come
pick it up for him if that’s okay,” Angel said. “Well, it’s sort of something I have
to give him in person. Can you get him to call me,” she asked. She gave Angel
the particulars and sat in bed waiting for him to get up.
An hour or so later, his eyes opened. Angel was having some tea. “Well good
morning,” he said moving over to curl up with her. “Carrie called for you
Chase,” Angel said as she sipped her tea. “She said you forgot something and
she has to give it to you in person.” He leaned over to kiss her and she turned
her head. She slipped out of bed and revealed a white satin teddy. She headed
downstairs, slid on her sweater and her slippers and went out to her little writing
cottage.
Chase leaned back in bed. “Shit,” he said to himself. He went in to check on
Lila. She was still out cold. He grabbed the monitor and pulled on his jeans and
sweater and headed for the cottage. She’d locked the door, but Chase had made
a second key and hidden it. He walked in. “Angel,” Chase said. “Don’t bother
saying it’s not what I think it is Chase. Been there and done that,” Angel said
writing in her journal. “I had to drop some papers there on the way back and
she made a move on me. She’s friends with Crystal. The second she found out
we were separating she made a move,” Chase said. He looked over and she had
her earphones in. “Angel,” he said. She ignored him. He walked over and
pulled the earphones out. “Did you hear me,” he asked. “Yep, but my brain
tends to ignore lies,” Angel said. She grabbed the monitor from his hand and
headed back to the house. “Angel,” he said following her. “Don’t bother okay?!
It’s fine. I can do this on my own Chase. Don’t need you,” she replied as she
walked up the steps and into the house.

406. 2
She went inside and headed upstairs. She heard Lila and went into her room.
“Well good morning princess,” Angel said. She got Lila changed and cleaned up
and brought her downstairs to get ready for breakfast. She sat her down with
her toys. Chase was sitting at the table. “Angel, I swear that nothing happened,”
Chase said. “Whatever. You never made a commitment to me Chase. You
aren’t cheating on me,” Angel said. “Angel, I didn’t do anything with her. She
told me that she heard about Crystal and I. She said she was sorry to hear it,
then tried to kiss me,” Chase said. “Oh okay Chase. No ego at all. Every damn
woman wants you in her bed,” Angel said sarcastically. She got Lila’s food and
fed her some breakfast, then as she did the dishes, Chase got Lila cleaned up and
took her over to her toys. He walked back over to Angel as she finished up the
dishes.
“Angel,” Chase said. She tried to ignore him. “You know I would never blow
this. Not after everything we’ve been through.” “I thought you wouldn’t, but
hey. Everyone makes mistakes right,” Angel said sarcastically as she turned to
walk over to Lila. “Angel. You know I wouldn’t do that. Look me in the eye
and tell me that you believe me,” he said. “Whatever Chase,” Angel said. He
pulled her to him. “Fine. You didn’t screw her,” Angel said as she looked in his
eyes. He leaned in to kiss her and she turned away and walked over to Lila.
There was a knock at the door. Chase answered. It was his kids. “PA Day. Can
we bring Lila to our house to play,” they asked. “As long as Crystal is there,”
Chase said. Angel put Lila’s shoes on and they headed across the street.
Angel sat down on the sofa and started up her laptop. “You know I didn’t
Angel. I would never do that,” Chase said. “Fine Chase,” Angel said. She
logged into her email. He pulled the laptop off her lap and put it onto the table.
“What,” Angel said. He kissed her and pulled her into his arms. “I would never
ever jeopardize losing that kiss to anyone. It’s mine, and I don’t intend to ever
let go of it,” Chase said. He kissed her again and leaned her back onto the sofa.
His arms held her close. “I do have to get some work done today,” Angel said.
“It’s not even 10 yet,” Chase said with a smile. “Never thought I would hear
myself say that,” he joked. He kissed Angel again. His hand grazed her thigh,
then slid up to her hips. “Come back to bed with me,” Chase said. “I seriously
have to get work done Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her again then got up and
picked her up from the sofa. “Chase, seriously. I need to get some work done,”
Angel said. “It will wait,” he said carrying her back up the steps.
He pulled her sweater off, and slid the satin teddy off. “Chase,” Angel said
squirming away. “What’s wrong now,” he asked wrapping his arms around her
and pulling her back towards him. “You really telling me the truth that you
didn’t screw someone else,” Angel said. He kissed her and quieted her. “Never

407. 2
would want to be with anyone else,” Chase said. He kissed her neck. “Now
how am I supposed to believe that? You trying to say when you and Crystal
were happy that you still wanted to be with me,” Angel asked. He kissed her
again until he distracted her train of thought. She felt the air coarse through his
lungs as he devoured her lips. Her heart started to race. She felt him slide into
her, and it felt perfect. She hadn’t felt that way in years. Every kiss was perfect.
They kissed and kissed and made love all morning. The minute that Chase
noticed the time, they both started to laugh. “So much for getting work done
today,” he said kissing her again. “We have to get up,” Angel said. She slid out
of bed and headed for the bathroom, turning the hot water on in the shower. He
came in behind her, wrapping his arms around her stomach. “Growing bigger
every day,” Chase said. “Would you,” Angel said stepping into the hot steamy
shower. He followed, wrapping his arms tight around Angel and holding her
close.
The water beaded on their skin as he held her. “I don’t ever want to let go,” he
whispered in her ear. “You never did answer me Chase,” Angel said. “Answer
what,” he replied. “When you and Crystal were together, you really wanted to
be with me,” Angel asked. “At the beginning, everything was perfect. We had
Lily. I couldn’t see us being any happier. Something just broke. The minute I
saw you, I couldn’t help but think about you. I knew I loved you,” Chase said.
“What makes you think it won’t happen again Chase,” Angel said. He turned
her to face him as she rinsed her hair in the water. “Because this was the way it
should have been all along. My first wife, was a mistake. Crystal and I, were
happy, but not together. We were and always have been perfect,” Chase said.
He kissed her again, and she stepped out of the tub. Angel grabbed a towel,
wrapping it around her. Chase finished his shower and headed for the bedroom.
Angel was brushing her damp hair, dressed in her favorite jeans that were now
getting ever so snug. “Now what was it that we were supposed to be doing
today,” Chase joked. “I have to get to work on that stupid document. It’s due in
tomorrow,” Angel said. She pulled on her sweater and headed downstairs. The
minute she logged into her email, she saw 30 emails. Some from friends, and a
pile from Mark. She almost laughed when she read the first one from Mark.
Angel,
Tell me what I have to do to fix this. Please. I can’t be
without you.
I love you baby. Please don’t do this. We both need us. We
need

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each other. You know I won’t leave here without you. Chase
may
be giving you what you think you need, but I know what you
need.
Please.
Mark
Angel deleted it. She went through the others from him and it was just more of
the same. “He just won’t give up,” Angel said laughing. Chase came up behind
her and kissed her. “Shall we email him back and tell him not to bother
anymore,” Chase asked. He nuzzled her ear. “I don’t want to destroy him
Chase. Don’t really need a reenactment of what happened last time,” Angel said.
Chase was in his suit and tie. “Heading into work?” He nodded and kissed her
again. “I’ll be back in a few hours. Just going to get some papers together,”
Chase said. “Okay then,” Angel said. The minute he was about to grab his coat,
the kids came running in the door. Lila was in Missy’s arms. “Well hello there,”
Angel said as they all ran into the back yard. Angel took Lila from Missy and
changed her. Lila was half asleep. “No nap,” Angel asked. “Nope,” Missy
replied. She gave Chase a quick kiss goodbye and he headed off to work. Angel
took Lila upstairs, changed her and put her down for a nap.
The kids played and ran around in the yard until they were completely tired out.
“Come inside and relax for a while,” Angel said. She put in a movie for them,
and made some snacks. She finished up her report and relaxed with the kids. By
the time it got close to dinner, Lila was up and playing with the kids and they
were almost through their movie. Angel put together some homemade pizzas
for everyone, and made a special one for her and Chase.
An hour or two later, Chase came in. The kids were watching another movie and
curled up together on the sofa, and Lila was half asleep in Angel’s arms. Chase
kissed Angel then took Lila upstairs and tucked her into bed. Angel pulled out
their pizza and poured them each a glass of white grape juice. He laughed. “So
this is how you intend to seduce me tonight is it,” he whispered. Angel nodded.
They had their pizza, then curled up and watched the tail end of the movie with
the kids. “Crystal knows you guys are here doesn’t she,” Chase asked. “Told
her before we left,” Missy said. Chase called over to double check that Crystal
knew. “Was wondering where they disappeared to,” Crystal said. “They didn’t
tell you,” Chase asked. “They did but I assumed they would be back by now
since they have to go to their mom’s tomorrow,” Crystal said. “Good point. Will
send them over when the movie’s done,” Chase said. The minute he saw the

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credits roll in the movie, he sent the kids home. Lily was out cold. Chase carried
her across the street to the house and tucked her in.
Angel cleaned up, then headed upstairs and hopped into a bubble bath. The
huge tub gave her space to stretch out. She closed her eyes and leaned back onto
the bathtub pillow. A little while later, she felt like someone was watching her.
She opened her eyes and saw Mark. “What the,” Angel said as she practically
jumped. “Guess this is one way of nailing you down isn’t it,” Mark said. “What
is up with you? You really think that showing up anytime you want is going to
help? We are done Mark. Even if this baby was yours, which it isn’t, that
wouldn’t be bringing us back together. Nothing is going to fix that,” Angel said.
Chase headed up the steps and heard voices. He walked into the bathroom and
found Mark standing over Angel. “What the? What are you doing in here,”
Chase asked staring at Mark. “Talking to my wife,” Mark said. “Mark, just get
out of here. This is not going to be negotiated while I am in the bathtub,” Angel
said. “I’m not giving you the divorce,” Mark said. Chase walked into the
bedroom and grabbed the envelope with the paternity results. “Just go okay.
Not tonight Mark,” Angel said. Chase had the envelope in his hands. Angel
shook her head. He looked at her and she shook her head again. He walked
back and put the envelope into her drawer. “Go Mark okay,” Angel said. “Fine,
but we are talking. Sunday,” Mark replied. “Fine,” Angel said. He left and
Chase walked him out. Chase slipped back upstairs as Angel was adding hot
water to the tub.
He slid his dress pants and shirt off and handed Angel a mug of tea then slid into
the tub behind her. “Now this is better,” he said. His arms wrapped around her.
He looked at his watch, realizing that he had to head into work soon. He
grabbed his cell and called in, letting them know he would be in on the Friday
night. “Now whatever are we going to do with all this time,” Angel joked. He
kissed her neck. “I’m sure we could think of something,” Chase whispered in
her ear. His arms wrapped over her shoulders. She relaxed into his arms. He
held her close and his body heat warmed her head to toe. “Missed me today,” he
asked. Angel nodded then linked her fingers with his. “Why didn’t you just tell
him,” Chase asked. “I couldn’t do it like this Chase. I know he deserves the
pain, but I can’t do it like this,” Angel said. “We have to do this sooner or later
babe,” Chase said. “I have to do it alone Chase. I have to sit him down and talk
to him calmly alone. Somewhere neutral,” Angel said. She turned to look at him
and he kissed her. “As long as you remember that you are my woman now. I
am your man and nobody elses,” Chase said. He kissed her again and she
wrapped her arms around him.
They got up, hopping out of the tub and kissed their way into the bedroom,
closing the door behind them. Angel backed her way to the bed as Chase pulled

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her close to him. She leaned back, and he laid down next to her still pulling her
to him. “Chase,” Angel said. “Don’t even say it Angel,” he replied. She felt a
pain in her stomach. He saw her wincing. “No. Not now,” he said. “I’m fine,”
Angel said. “No you aren’t. Don’t move,” he said. She winced again. “That’s
it,” he said. He got up, threw on his jeans, then handed her a pair of track pants
and a tank top. She slid them on, then grabbed a sweater and her runners.
Chase went in and put Lila in her snuggly, then carried Lila downstairs. He put
her in the car seat in the kitchen, then went upstairs to help Angel. He carried
her downstairs. “I can walk,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Purse,” he asked. She
grabbed it from the railing. He carried her outside, then came in and got Lila
and strapped her into the car.
They got to the hospital and he started to panic. He was pacing the halls with
Lila while they checked Angel out. When the doctor came out, Chase begged to
go in. “Fine, but she’s not in a good mood,” the doctor said. “The baby,” Chase
said. “Is okay for now. She’s not doing the stress-free thing too well,” the doc
said. “I’ll take care of it. Please,” Chase said. He went in and sat down with her
as Lila lay in his arms. The doctor wheeled a crib in and put it beside Chase. He
put Lila down and she was out cold. He held Angel’s hand. “Now what about
tonight would have caused you stress,” Chase said. Angel looked at him. “Not
even saying the name,” Chase said. She moved over and motioned for him to lay
down with her. He laid down beside her and she curled up in his arms.
“Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her. “No. Tonight you rest,” he said. Her arm
wrapped around him and she fell asleep in his arms.
The next morning, the nurse came in and saw them curled up together. She
walked over and checked Angel’s blood pressure. “Okay. It’s back down. You
can probably go home, but he’ll have a million rules,” the nurse whispered.
Angel nodded. About a half hour later, the doctor came in. “I guess you slept
well,” he joked as Chase yawned. “Can I take her home,” Chase asked. “Bedrest
for a week. Then come back for a checkup. Let’s see if that helps,” the doctor
said. Angel nodded. “As long as you do what I said you won’t be back here.
You can go home when you’re ready,” he said. Chase slipped out of the bed, got
Lila and Angel slid her track pants and sweater back on. The nurse came in with
a wheelchair for Angel and they headed out.
They got back to the house and Mark was sitting on the porch. “Where the hell
have you two been,” Mark asked. “Carry Lila in,” Chase said as Mark took Lila
from her car seat. He carried Angel into the house and put her upstairs in their
bed. “Chase,” Angel said. “Until he goes,” Chase said as he kissed her. He
walked back into the hall and changed Lila, slipping her into some fresh clothes
and a new diaper. He carried her into the bedroom where Angel was. Mark was
sitting on the edge of the bed.

411. 2
“What is going on with my baby,” Mark said. “You just aren’t hearing me. I
can’t do this right now. I need to lower my stress not raise it,” Angel said.
“Where the hell were you,” Mark asked. Chase grabbed his shoulder. “Let me
talk to you out here for a minute,” Chase said. Mark followed him.
“We just got back from the hospital. She was cramping last night. The doctor
said no stress. She has to go back at the beginning of next week. Can you give
her that time? No stress. No pressure for a week?” Mark nodded. “Anything
for my baby,” he said. They went back in and Lila was curled up with Angel as
she read her a story. “That little girl is yours Mark. Not the other one,” Chase
said. “Don’t believe it until I see the proof. She loves me Chase. We just need
some time to figure this all out,” Mark said. “Just leave her be okay. She just got
back,” Chase said trying to hold back from kicking Mark’s butt. “Fine. Do you
want me to look after Lila for today,” he asked. “Ask Angel,” Chase said. Mark
went in and sat down beside Angel. He leaned in and kissed her. “I know you
love me,” he whispered. Angel went back to reading the book. He took her face
in his hands and kissed her again. She tried to push him away and he kissed her
deeper. She came up for air and pushed him away. “Please,” Angel said. “I
know you still love me,” Mark said. “Go,” Angel pleaded. He went to leave.
“Do you want me to look after her today,” Mark asked. Angel nodded. “I want
her back in the morning though. No taking off Mark,” Angel said. Chase
handed him the baby bag with her change of clothes and blankets etc.
“Lunchtime tomorrow,” Mark asked. Angel nodded.
Mark left with Lila, and Chase locked up and came upstairs to bed with Angel.
“So since you are stuck in bed,” Chase said. Angel smiled and motioned for him
to come closer. His arm wrapped around her and she kissed him. It was so
different with Chase. With Mark everything was forceful. Chase was seductive,
romantic, funny. Everything she wanted in a man and more. His kisses were
perfect. He slid her sweater off, kissing up her torso as he slid it off. He laid a
kiss on her that took her breath away. “You sure you’re okay,” Chase asked as
they came up for air. She pulled his tank top off. “Definitely,” she replied. He
wrapped his muscular arm around her torso. She wrapped a leg around his.
“You promise me if you start cramping again,” he said. She kissed him and
pulled him to her. She slid her track pants off, then wrapped her leg around him
again, unbuttoning his jeans. “Promise me,” he said as she slid his jeans off.
Angel nodded.
He could feel how wet she was. His hand slid between them and touched her.
Turned him on even more. He kissed her again then slid inside her. This had to
be the hottest he had ever felt. He made love to her, taking his time and making
the most of every second, every moment. He could feel her starting to come.

412. 2
Her legs pulled him closer to her, deeper. He couldn’t hold back and either
could she. Her muscles clenched, holding him close and tight inside her. He
couldn’t hold back. He let go, then kissed her. “I love you baby,” he said. “I
love you too,” Angel replied. “You sure you’re okay,” Chase said as he laid his
head on her chest. “Much better now,” Angel said as he kissed her breast. He
laid down beside her and wrapped his arm around her. “Angel,” Chase said.
“Chase, ask me again,” Angel said. “Ask you what,” he said. She slid off her
wedding rings. “Promise to be mine forever, no matter what, and be with me
every night,” Chase said. “Yes,” Angel replied. “Marry me the minute that
divorce is final,” he asked. “Anywhere,” Angel replied. He kissed her again.
“We have to tell him about the results,” Chase said. “Next week when the doctor
gives me the out of bed okay,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Anything as long as
you’re really going to go through with it,” Chase said. Angel went to get out of
bed. “Where do you think you’re going,” Chase asked. “Shower,” Angel
replied. “Stay here,” he said. He got up and Angel heard water running.
She could smell the scent of lilac. He came back into the bedroom and picked her
up, carrying her to the bathtub. He slid in with her. “You don’t have to baby me
you know,” Angel said. “Babying my baby,” Chase said wrapping his arms
around her. She leaned back in his arms and enjoyed her nice quiet bubble bath.
Once the water cooled, they stepped out and slipped on some clothes. Chase
wouldn’t let her lift a finger. He carried her downstairs to the sofa, and made
them some lunch, then relaxed with Angel all day. “You have to go to work
tonight Chase,” Angel said. “I am not leaving you here by yourself,” Chase said.
“Go,” Angel joked. “No,” he replied. He kissed Angel. “Not leaving my babies
here alone,” Chase said. He kissed her again. “Go. I’m just going to be in bed
anyway,” Angel said. “We’ll talk about it later,” Chase replied as he got up and
made them lunch. Angel was craving some quiet time alone. She had to figure
out what to do about Mark. Chase handed her mango and peaches and a
sandwich, then sat down with her and they had lunch together.
By the time it got to 7:30, Chase was more determined than ever to stay home,
and Angel promised him that she wouldn’t move a muscle if he went. “I
promise I won’t get out of bed. Just go,” Angel said. “And if anything
happens,” Chase said. “If anything happens, I will call you , then the bar, then
not move until you get here okay,” Angel said. “I’ll be worried about you all
night,” Chase said. “Go for a few hours. I’ll be right here,” Angel said. He
picked her up, wrapping her legs around him and carried her upstairs to bed.
He laid her on the bed, then kissed her. “You sure,” he asked. Angel nodded.
“Go,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “Not a muscle,” he said. “If anything I
will be asleep when you get here,” Angel said. He sat down beside her. “I don’t
want anything to happen,” Chase said. “Nothing will baby. Don’t worry,”

413. 2
Angel said. He kissed her again. “A few hours tops,” he said. Angel nodded.
He handed her the TV remote, her journal, her book, the cell phone and the
cordless. “There’s an ice water on the counter, fruit on the table beside it,” Chase
said. “Go already,” Angel said. He kissed her again then headed out, locking
the door behind him.
He got to work that night and couldn’t help but think about her. No matter who
he talked to, danced for or was distracted by, he wanted to be by her side. The
minute it got close to the end of the night, he packed up and headed for the door.
Crystal was there. “Chase,” she said. He turned and saw her. “Hey,” he said.
“Thought you weren’t working anymore,” she said. “I needed the distraction
tonight,” Chase replied. “Sure,” Crystal said. “What are you doing here or do I
have to ask,” he said. “Here for my friend’s birthday,” she replied. “Have a
good night then,” Chase said. “Where you headed,” she asked. “Home to
Angel,” Chase replied as he opened the door and headed up the steps. He got to
the truck, throwing his bag in the back and Mark approached him.
“You left her home alone,” Mark said. It was obvious he had been drinking.
“Who’s taking you home,” Chase asked. “Going home with Crystal and her
friend,” Mark said. “Fine. She’s at home in bed asleep Mark. I’m going home
now,” Chase said. He hopped in the truck and undid the window. “She’s my
damn wife. Not yours,” Mark said. “You screwed up and you lost her. She
doesn’t want to be with you. She wants to be with me, and the baby is mine. We
got the damn test results. Got it,” Chase said. He pulled out and headed home.
Mark slumped down against Crystal’s car. He lit a cigarette as his hand shook.
Chase kicked himself all the way home. When he got there, Angel was curled up
asleep in bed. She’d slipped on her satin lingerie as a surprise for Chase. He slid
off his jeans, and got ready for bed. He showered, then climbed into bed next to
her, wrapping his arms around her. He kissed her neck, then nibbled her ear.
“How was work,” Angel said mid-yawn. “Good. Crystal was there, and so was
Mark. He was wasted,” Chase said. “You didn’t say anything did you,” Angel
said. “I told him the baby was mine,” Chase said. Angel turned to face him.
“You said what,” Angel asked. He kissed her hard. She pushed him away.
“You said that when he was drunk? How drunk was he,” Angel asked. “He’d
probably had quite a few. He slumped down against the car after I left,” Chase
said. “Chase,” Angel said rolling back over. She shook her head. Now she
would really have to talk to him.
Chase tried to snuggle up to her. She felt bad for Mark. God only knows why.
He’d put her through so much. Chase wrapped his arms around her torso. “I’m
sorry. I didn’t mean to say it to him like that. He was acting like an idiot,” Chase
said. “That’s not how I wanted him to find out Chase,” Angel said. “What’s

414. 2
done is done. Now he’ll go,” Chase said. “No. Now he’ll get 50 times worse,”
Angel replied. “He may not even remember,” Chase said. Her cell phone rang.
“Yeah right,” Angel said. She grabbed the phone and answered it. “Angel,”
Mark said. “Aren’t you supposed to be looking after Lila,” Angel asked. “She’s
with Missy. Crystal said I needed a night out. Is what he said true? Did the test
come back,” Mark asked. “It did, but it has to be repeated in a few months,”
Angel said. “Then it’s not 100%,” Mark asked. “More like 70,” Angel said. “I
want to see you. Alone,” Mark said. “No. Not after you have been drinking
okay. Go to bed,” Angel said. “I want you,” he said. “Go to bed Mark,” Angel
said hanging up.
Chase pulled her close to him. “Now what was that about 70,” Chase asked.
“It’s not 100% until they test in the 5th or 6th month,” Angel said. “But,” he
replied. “As far as the doctor is concerned, the results are definite,” Angel said.
“Then I can tell everyone that I am the dad then,” Chase said. “Why Chase?
Why does it matter so much right now,” Angel said. He turned her around to
face him. “Why? You’re asking me why it’s so important that this is my baby?
Because I love you that’s why,” Chase said. “Why is it so important that you tell
everyone right now,” Angel said. “Because I want my friends and family to
share this with us,” Chase replied. “This baby is ours. Mine and yours. A baby
made out of love. We wanted this. Why can’t we tell everyone? Scream it from
the rooftops even?” “You know you are crazy right? I’m still married to him
Chase. You’re still married to Crystal,” Angel said. “Legally separated thank
you very much,” Chase replied. “Since when,” Angel asked. “As of Thursday
night. Got the call when I was at the hospital with you,” Chase replied. “Oh
really,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. “I told you. I’m yours,” Chase said. He
pulled her leg around his. “Just do me one favor,” Angel said. “Anything,” he
replied as he leaned in for a kiss. “No more being mean to him okay,” Angel
said. He kissed her. “Okay,” he replied.
He devoured her lips with his. He couldn’t get enough of her. She was his
addiction. Thoughts of this night and what would happen ran through his mind
all night. His arms wrapped around her as he drew her in with the scent of his
cologne. He slid her lingerie off, kissing her torso, her breasts and her neck.
“Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her again as their tongues mingled. She
wrapped her legs around him as he leaned her onto her back. He slid inside her.
She was so warm. The feel of her was enough to cause an addiction. He made
love to her. Her moans told him she felt the same. She wanted him, craved him
at all times. Especially now. He kissed her over and over until he could feel
himself nearing orgasm. He could feel her muscles starting to tighten. He kissed
her again, devouring her lips and her heart was racing. He came then kissed her
breasts, her neck. “Chase,” Angel said. “Yes baby,” he replied still trying to
catch his own breath. “How the heck do you have all this energy,” she asked.

415. 2
He kissed her again. “There’s more where that came from,” Chase teased. “Oh
really,” Angel joked. He kissed down her torso. “You aren’t doing what I …..”
He kissed her hip. “Chase,” Angel said. She felt his tongue against her. She
knew there was no resisting. She felt his hands against her skin, his fingers
sliding into her. “Shit,” Angel said. He kept going as she got wetter and wetter.
She came again and he slid back up her torso, kissing every inch of her skin. He
kissed her lips again and devoured her, taking her breath away. “Now what was
that about energy,” Chase asked as he held her close. “Ignore what I said,”
Angel said as they came up for air. “So, you ready for bed now,” Chase asked.
Angel nodded. He curled up next to her, holding her close to him. “I love you,”
he said. “I love you too,” she said with her heart still racing.

416. 2
Chapter 45
The next morning, Chase woke up and Angel wasn’t in bed. He got up and
walked into the bathroom, then slipped his jeans on and headed downstairs. She
was on the sofa downstairs reading. “You do realize you’re supposed to be on
bed rest? That means no wandering off,” Chase said as he walked towards the
sofa. He looked and saw that she was fast asleep. He smiled. He turned on the
coffee and put the water on for Angel’s tea. Once it was made, he walked over to
the sofa and sat the tea down on the counter. He kissed her and she opened her
eyes. “Now what are you doing down here,” Chase asked. “Got up and didn’t
want to wake you. I guess I’m just too used to Lila getting up early,” Angel said.
He kissed her. “Now back to bed with you,” Chase said. As he leaned down to
kiss her, there was a knock at the door. Chase walked over to answer it. Mark
was at the door with Lila in his arms. He walked in and walked over towards
Angel. Chase took Lila from his arms. “So how are you,” Mark said sitting on
the edge of the sofa next to her. “I’m fine. I thought you weren’t coming until
lunch,” Angel said. He leaned down and kissed her. She backed up. “Mark.
Stop,” Angel said. “I miss you,” he said. “It’s over Mark. Please just don’t do
this,” Angel said. “I want to take you home where you belong,” he said. “I am
where I belong,” Angel replied. “No you aren’t. You belong with me. In our
house on the beach in California. Please Angel,” Mark said. “No. Just sign the
papers and let me go,” Angel replied. “I can’t do that. I can’t walk away from
you. I love you too much,” Mark replied. “Then you love me enough to let me
go and be happy,” Angel said. She went to try to get up. “Stop trying to walk
away. I can’t let you leave me,” Mark said. “I have to Mark. It’s done. I can’t do
this back and forth stuff anymore. You can see Lila whenever, but I can’t be with
you,” Angel said.
He got up and sat down at the kitchen table. Chase came downstairs from
putting Lila in her crib. Angel went to try to get up, and Chase walked over to
her. “Angel,” he said. “I am going out to the cottage,” Angel said. She got up
and walked across the lawn, then went into the cottage, closing the door behind
her.
“Chase, I need to be with her. I have to be with her,” Mark said. “No you don’t
Mark. Just leave her be. She’s not permitted any stress. Just leave her be,”
Chase said. “I don’t care how long it takes. I am not giving her up,” Mark
replied. “The best thing you can do is let her go Mark. Maybe someday things
might change, but she’s not going to be changing her mind anytime soon.
Especially with the baby coming,” Chase said. “But,” Mark said. “She cares
about you Mark, but not enough to stay,” Chase said. Mark got up and walked
towards the cottage. Chase put on some breakfast for Angel.

417. 2
Mark walked into the cottage and Angel looked up. “Angel, I don’t care how
long it takes. I am not letting you go,” Mark said. “Why can’t you just let me be
happy? I don’t want to go back to that Mark. Can’t you just let me be happy
here,” Angel asked. “No. Not without me,” he said. He sat down on the sofa
with her. “Mark, you just don’t get it do you,” Angel said. “Get what? That you
want to be with Chase? That you don’t want this baby to be mine,” he said.
“Mark, it’s just better this way. Can’t you see it,” she asked. He kissed her. “No,
I can’t,” Mark said. He kissed her again. He undid the belt on her robe. “Mark,”
Angel said. She pushed him away. “What are you doing? You think that’s
going to cure everything don’t you? I don’t want you Mark. Got me,” Angel
said. She tried to calm herself, but got a twinge. “Angel. How can you say that?
Not 2 months ago, we were at that resort and were the happiest we have been.
How the hell can you say you don’t want me,” Mark asked. “Because it was a
lie. You aren’t capable of being faithful to me and I can’t be with someone that
isn’t,” Angel said. She went to get up. “You aren’t supposed to be up. Lay
down,” Mark said. “Then go. Leave me be,” Angel said. “You really want me to
sign the damn papers? I told you how long ago that I never wanted to get
divorced ever again in my life. How can you ask me to do that knowing me that
well,” Mark asked. “You were the one that caused this. The doctor told me the
baby isn’t yours Mark. That he was 70% sure with the test and that the later
result ends up the same as the first 90% of the time. That means it’s mine and
Chase’s. Please just go,” Angel said. “Just because it’s his doesn’t mean I am
letting go,” Mark said. Angel got up and walked back towards the house. Mark
followed.
Chase came running outside. “You aren’t supposed to be on your damn feet
woman,” he said picking her up. He carried her inside and back to the sofa.
“Don’t move. I am getting breakfast,” Chase said. “I can walk Chase,” Angel
said. “No you can’t. Sit,” he said. Mark came inside. “I am not going home
until the baby is born and I have real proof,” Mark said. “I told them I would be
working offsite for a while. End of discussion,” Mark said. “Then sign it. You
can see Lila whenever you want. If it turns out to be yours, which it won’t, then
we’ll figure something out. Good enough,” Angel said. “Separation only.
Nothing else,” Mark said. “Fine,” Angel said. She grabbed the cordless phone
and called the lawyer. She explained what she wanted and the lawyer agreed to
get it sent right over. Chase handed Angel some fruit and sat down with her.
“Angel,” Chase said. She linked her fingers with Chase’s. He knew what she
was thinking. “Can you let her relax now,” Chase asked. “Fine. I’ll sign them
when I get them,” Mark said as he headed out the door.
Chase kissed Angel the second the door closed. “One step closer,” Chase said.
“We talked Chase,” Angel said. “He knows and he still won’t go,” Chase said.
Angel nodded. She got up from the sofa and went upstairs, locking the

418. 2
bathroom door behind her. She drew herself a bath and laid down in the tub.
She closed her eyes, remembering those moments they’d spent at the beach. The
romantic moments, the surprise getaways, the passion she’d felt. She loved him
so much. Everything that had happened between them was up in smoke now.
He pushed her too far. She should be with Chase. At least she knew he would
never do that to her. She thought back to before they were married. They were
so happy together. Everything was so right. Is that the way it was going to be
every time? Maybe just living with Chase was a better idea. She tried to think of
the better things. The better times in her life. She leaned her head back and let
the bubbles do their thing. She opened her eyes what felt like minutes later, and
the water was barely warm. She pulled the plug and wrapped herself in a towel
and headed for the bedroom. She opened the door and Chase was in the hall.
“Are you regretting this,” Chase asked. “No. I am just nervous about the whole
thing Chase. Why wouldn’t this turn out like it did with Mark and I,” Angel
asked. She started to walk towards the bedroom. “Because. You two were
screwed the minute he showed you his true colors Angel. You already know
mine,” Chase said. He stood up and followed her into the bedroom and kissed
her. “You tried to tell me before Crystal and I got together, and I tried to stop
you before you and Mark got married. We know what was right, and we both
made the wrong decision. We are supposed to be here. In this house, in this
relationship. I love you. I always have. Don’t ever regret this,” Chase said. He
kissed her again and wrapped his arms around her. She wrapped her arms
around his torso. Somehow, everything seemed better when she was in his arms.
Her doubts were gone.
An hour or so later, there was a knock at the door. The documents had arrived.
Angel signed them and got them taken to Mark. Once they were signed, they
called Angel. “All settled then,” the lawyer said. “Thanks,” Angel replied.
“And when you decide to sign the divorce papers, let us know. We’ll file this
first thing Monday,” the lawyer said. They hung up. “It’s done,” Angel said.
Chase kissed her. “One step closer to just us,” he said. “Chase,” Angel said.
“What baby,” he said. “Shh,” she replied and kissed him. He picked her up and
laid her on the bed. “And just what has got into you,” Chase said. “Freedom,”
Angel replied. He slid her towel off and held her in his arms. “I love the new
you,” Chase said. “I love you,” Angel replied. He kissed her and pulled the
covers over them. “To bed this early,” Angel joked. “Who said I was letting you
go to sleep,” Chase replied kissing her again.
Her back arched as his fingers caressed the small of her back. He kissed down
her torso, then kissed her stomach. “Now you behave baby. No coming out
early just cause you want to meet your daddy,” Chase said. He looked up at
Angel and saw the silly smile on her face. “Talking the baby into it are you,”

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Angel joked. “Just making sure,” he said kissing her stomach. He moved back
up, kissing her. “Now that we have that arranged,” he teased. “What might you
be having on your mind,” Angel joked. He was about to say something when
the phone rang.
“Chase, Lily is in the hospital,” Crystal said. Chase got up with a start and
grabbed his jeans. Angel went to get up and grab her jeans, and Chase told her
to stay. “I have to go and make sure she’s okay,” Chase said. “And I am damn
well going with you Chase,” Angel said. She grabbed her jeans and pulled them
on, then grabbed her sweater and headed into Lila’s room. Chase got the rest of
the info on what was happening, and Missy headed over to keep an eye on Lila.
They pulled out in the truck and headed for the hospital.
“Is she okay,” Chase said running down the hallway towards Crystal. Angel
was walking slowly behind Chase. “She has a really high fever is all. They want
to keep her until it goes down. They said she had bronchitis,” Crystal said.
Angel was wheeled down the hall in a wheelchair. “What’s wrong with Angel,”
Crystal asked. “Nothing. She’s supposed to be off her feet, but she’s so damn
stubborn she refused to stay home,” Chase said walking down the hall towards
Angel. “I can’t just sit by and not be here,” Angel said. Chase took over the
wheelchair and brought her down the hall. The doctor came out from checking
on Lily. “How is she,” Angel asked. “Crystal,” the doctor said. She followed
him into the room. Chase followed. Chase came out a little while later looking
slightly relieved. “And,” Angel asked. “She has an infection that is causing the
fever. She’s getting a little better now. She can go home tomorrow,” Chase said.
Angel went to get up. “Nope. In the chair or you’re going home,” Chase said.
Angel sat back down. “She can only have one visitor at a time anyway,” Chase
said. “You sure she’s okay though,” Angel asked. Chase nodded and kissed her.
“I told you everything would be okay. You didn’t need to come,” Chase said.
“Yes I did Chase. She is your family, and she’s going to be mine,” Angel
whispered in his ear. He kissed her ear and pulled her to a chair beside him.
“That she is,” Chase said.
A few hours later, Chase and Angel headed home after a couple of hours on
rotating shifts with Lily. Chase carried Angel to bed as she’d fallen fast asleep in
the truck. The minute her head touched the pillow, her eyes opened. “Guess I
was a little more tired than I thought,” Angel said. He kissed her. “Sleep,”
Chase said. “Not without you,” Angel said. “One sec,” Chase said heading for
the hallway. He went into the guest bedroom to check on Missy. She was out
like a light. He closed the door quietly and headed back to bed with Angel.
When he got there, she was curled up under the covers and her sweater and
jeans were on the floor. Chase slid his jeans and his shirt off and slid into bed
beside her.

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His arm wrapped around her torso and pulled her against him. She could feel
every breath entering his lungs. “Now where were we again,” Chase whispered.
Angel linked her fingers with his and held them against her stomach. “Telling
baby to behave,” Angel said quietly. His hand slid up her torso to her breast and
fondled it. “And we were just about here,” Chase said. She could feel him
against her. “Chase,” Angel said. “Yes baby,” he replied. “Now just how many
were we talking,” Angel asked. “How many what,” he replied. “Tell me that
this is the last one okay,” Angel said. “Guess we could still just practice after,”
he teased. He kissed her neck. “Definitely. Lots of practice,” Angel said.
The next morning, Angel woke up and headed downstairs. Missy was curled up
on the sofa, and Chase was sitting with her. “So what you two up to,” Angel
said. Chase turned. “Off your feet doesn’t mean walking around,” Chase said.
“Needed some exercise. What you two talking about,” Angel asked. “Daddy
told me about the baby,” Missy said. Angel gave Chase one of those looks. “Sort
of glad that you make my dad happy. I like seeing him happy,” Missy said.
Chase grabbed Angel’s hand. “That she definitely does baby,” Chase said. His
daughter hugged him. “I try Missy. Your dad and I have always been best
friends. Don’t know what I would ever do without him,” Angel said. “Dad
loves you. So do we,” Missy said. “Thank you baby. I love you guys too,”
Angel said. A little while later, the other kids came over. “Hope you don’t
mind,” Crystal said with Lily in her arms. “So she’s okay,” Chase said. Crystal
nodded. Chase got up and went with her to help her with Lily. Missy headed
upstairs and got Lila and brought her downstairs. “She’s finally up,” Missy said
handing her to Angel. “Can we tell them,” Missy asked. “So there’s some news I
think you guys might want to hear,” Angel said as Missy sat down with her.
She told the kids, and to say the least, they were ecstatic. “So you really are
going to have a baby? Does that mean we are going to be a family now that
Crystal and Dad aren’t together anymore,” they asked. “Yes,” Angel said. They
hugged Angel. “And you promise you won’t leave,” they asked. “I promise.
Always and forever,” Angel said. They curled up on the sofa with her and
cuddled for a while. When Chase came back in, they were all giggling. “So
what’s going on in here,” Chase asked. The kids all ran over to him and hugged
him. “Angel said we could tell them,” Missy said. He walked over to Angel and
kissed her. “Not fair that one knows and the others don’t right,” Angel said. He
sat down with her. “So when do we get to see the new baby,” His youngest two
asked. “About another 5 and a half months or so,” Chase said. “Is it a girl or a
boy,” his son asked. “Not sure, but working on that one for you,” Chase joked.
They all spent the day together. They relaxed outside, played a few games, then
the kids headed home to bed, and Chase and Angel headed inside to put Lila to
bed.

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He walked into Lila’s bedroom behind her. Angel laid Lila down, then headed
for the hall. “Angel,” Chase whispered. “Yes,” Angel replied. “Why the change
of mind,” Chase asked. She walked into the bedroom and slid her slippers off.
“Figured they would figure out soon enough,” Angel said. “Sure there wasn’t
more to it,” Chase asked as he slid his jeans and t-shirt off. “You’d already told
Missy. It wasn’t fair that she knew and the other kids didn’t,” Angel replied.
“Real reason,” Chase asked. “Well, real reason…Mark knows now, so it isn’t a
secret anymore. Besides. I do love you,” Angel said. Chase kissed her. “And I
wouldn’t know what I would do or where I would be without this face to wake
up to every morning,” Angel said. “Me neither,” Chase said. “And since it’s
only a matter of time,” Angel said. “And he’s already signed the separation
papers,” Chase said. “That too, I don’t see why we couldn’t tell them,” Angel
said. He kissed her again and bowled her over onto the bed.
“So here’s a question,” Angel said. “What’s that,” Chase asked kissing her neck
and wrapping his arms around her. “How are you going to break the news to
Crystal,” Angel asked. “Good point,” Chase asked. He paused, then kissed her
again. “Figure that out later,” Chase said. “No seriously. I am almost 3 months
Chase. She probably thinks it’s Mark’s,” Angel said. “We’ll deal with that
tomorrow,” he replied. He kissed her again and devoured her lips as though it
was the last time he’d ever kiss her lips. She was definitely under his spell that
night. He caressed her from head to toe, massaging, fondling, licking and
teasing her until she gave into him. He made love to her as if it were the first
time. The first time they were alone, and it was so intense they could barely look
straight at each other. Every kiss was more and more intense and passionate.
Every touch of her skin lit her on fire. Every thrust he made drove her deeper
and deeper into ecstasy. He didn’t want this feeling to end or to go away. He
held her close to him all night, and after a few naps between them finally fell
asleep in a deep slumber. His arms held her tight, his legs wrapped around hers
and his heart raced in time with hers.
The next morning, Angel snuck out of bed and made breakfast for Chase. When
he woke up, the smell of coffee was on his side table. Angel had snuck back into
bed before he’d noticed. Lila was in her arms. Chase woke up, noticed the
coffee, then turned and wrapped his arm around Angel. “Good morning,”
Chase said as he kissed her neck and slid his hand around her torso to her
breasts. “Hi Cay,” Lila said crawling over Angel’s hip. “Well hello there
princess,” Chase said. Lila climbed into his arms and Angel rolled over. “Well
am I the luckiest guy in the world or what. I get two girls that love me giving me
good morning kisses,” Chase said. “Have your coffee,” Angel said. “Weren’t
you supposed to be on bed rest? I am the one that should be bringing you

422. 2
breakfast,” Chase said. “Not today you aren’t,” Angel replied. Lila gave Chase
kisses, then hopped off the bed and went to play with her toys.
“Now seriously. You are supposed to be staying in bed,” Chase said. “Oh I
intend to later,” Angel said. He kissed her and she pinned him to the bed. “So I
am confined to the bed now am I,” he joked. “If I am so are you,” Angel replied.
He kissed her. “So what time do you have to go to the office,” Angel asked.
“What time is it anyway,” Chase asked. “8:30,” Angel said. “Should be there in
the next half hour,” Chase said. Angel shook her head. “What,” he asked. “Just
thinking of what we could be doing if you didn’t have to go into the office,”
Angel said. He tried to flip her onto her back to no avail. “Tease,” Chase said.
“Always,” Angel replied. She leaned back and he sat up. She handed him his
coffee. “So what’s your plan for today,” Chase asked. “Entertaining Lila,
working on a presentation, conference call around naptime. That’s about all,”
Angel said. “I think I may be coming home around 3 this afternoon. You aren’t
supposed to be up and around. I don’t want you over doing it,” Chase said.
“Relax. My mom is coming down this afternoon to entertain Lila. I’m going to
tell her,” Angel said. He put his coffee down and kissed her. “So you are really
making it official,” Chase asked. Angel nodded. “Then we are going out to
dinner to celebrate,” Chase said. He kissed her and pinned her to the bed.
“Then tomorrow, you can tell your mom,” Angel said. “Or we could just have
them all at dinner with us and tell them all at the same time,” Chase said.
“Could,” Angel replied. He kissed her again then slid out of bed and headed for
the shower.
Angel went and brought Lila downstairs to the playroom, then made Lila her
breakfast and fed her. Chase came downstairs a short time later in his dress
pants and shirt. Angel headed upstairs and showered and got dressed and
headed downstairs for her day. She logged into her computer and went through
emails, then finished the presentation. Chase came over and kissed her goodbye.
The scent of his cologne lingered in the room. Angel got some work done, then a
short time before the conference call, her mom showed up to spend some time
with Lila. “So you never told me why you were on bed rest,” she said. “Was in
the hospital last week and they said my blood pressure was thrown off and they
wanted me to lower my stress and see how I was after a week or so,” Angel said.
“Are you okay now,” she asked. “Definitely,” Angel replied. She had a grin ear
to ear. “I haven’t seen a smile like that in a while. Guess Mark is treating you
well,” she said. “Mom, I have something I need to tell you,” Angel said. Her
mom stopped and sat down. “What,” she said. “Mark and I are legally
separated. I asked him for a divorce,” Angel said. “So what are you up here for
then,” her mom asked. “Chase and I are together now,” Angel said. “As in your
friend Chase? I thought…” “Chase and Crystal are in the process of getting a
divorce and we are together now. We’re raising Lila together,” Angel said. “You
sure you and Mark can’t fix this? He never said anything about this to us,” she

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said. “What do you mean,” Angel replied. “He was at our place the other night.
He said he got in and you weren’t around,” her mom said.
“Mark has been cheating over and over since we got married. Fact is that it
should have been over a long time ago. I finally made the decision to be here
instead of on the other side of the country. This is what I want Lila to see when
she grows up. People who love each other. Memories that I can share with her
from when I was little. I don’t want her growing up there in that kind of
atmosphere,” Angel said. She got up and ran for the washroom. She wondered
why they called it morning sickness when it was all damn day.
“What else is going on with you,” her mom asked. “Flu?” “Nope,” Angel said.
“Don’t tell me,” she said looking at Angel. “Almost 3 months,” Angel replied.
Her mom jumped up and kissed Angel. “How,” her mom asked. “Things
haven’t been good with Mark and I for a long while. It’s Chase’s,” Angel said.
“And he asked me to marry him. It was a while ago that he asked. Years and
years ago. He told me the last time I saw him in California that he wanted me to
be with him no matter what, and here I am.” Her mom hugged her. “He makes
you happy doesn’t he,” she asked. Angel nodded. “Don’t tell dad yet. We’re all
going out for dinner tonight to tell everyone else. Just get him down here for
dinner,” Angel said. “Anything else you need me to do,” she asked. “Look after
her while I have my conference call, then I am going to try to get ready for
dinner. I want to look nice,” Angel said. “I’ll take care of the princess. If you
need any help just let me know,” her mom said.
After her call, she got showered, and put on her make up and did her hair, then
headed downstairs. “Wow,” her mom said as she put the finishing touches on
Lila’s hair. Angel came downstairs in a black dress that looked like it was made
for her. “So I guess I don’t have to ask if it looks okay,” Angel said. “Definitely
not. You look beautiful,” her mom said. About a half hour later, Chase came in
from work. “Hey babe. I’m….” He stopped the minute he saw Angel. “Home,”
he finished. “Well hello,” Angel said. He walked towards her. “Hello Chase,”
her mom said. “Hi,” he replied not taking his eyes off Angel. “You look
beautiful.” He kissed Angel, wrapping his arms around her. “Surprised,” Angel
asked as he let her up for air. “You said we were going out for dinner, but
whoa,” he said. “We are going for dinner. My parents and your parents are
coming too,” Angel said. “What’s the occasion,” Chase asked. She smiled.
“Really,” he said. Angel nodded. “Okay then. Want to come…help me pick out
something to wear,” Chase asked. Her mom giggled. “Why don’t I take Lila,
and we will meet you at the restaurant,” her mom suggested. “Sure. But don’t
forget. 7pm,” Angel said. “See you there,” her mom replied. She left with Lila,
and Angel headed upstairs with Chase.

424. 2
“You telling me what I think you are,” Chase asked. “I thought that the three
month mark was as good a time as any to tell them,” Angel said. He kissed her
again, pulling her against him. “You know that’s how we got this one in the first
place,” Angel joked. “Damn good practicing then,” Chase said. He went to
undo the zipper. “Chase, we have to go meet them in an hour,” Angel said. He
unzipped the dress. “Chase,” Angel said. He slid his shirt and tie off, throwing
them into the laundry bin. “I spent the past hour doing my hair Chase,” Angel
said. “No prob. Won’t mess it up,” Chase said kissing her again. He slid her
dress off and laid it across the counter. “You know you are incorrigible,” Angel
said. He kissed her hard. “I know what you are going to say Chase,” Angel
said. “All mine,” he replied as they both laughed. “Definitely,” Angel replied.
He backed her up to the bed. He slid out of his dress pants, dropping them to
the ground. “Seriously,” Angel said. He turned her around, pinning her back
against his rock hard abs. She knew what he was about to do. His promise to
not mess her hair was a good one.
She felt him against her. “That’s one way of not messing my hair,” Angel joked.
He kissed her neck and held her breasts in each hand. “Wanted you all day,”
Chase said. “Bet you I wanted you more,” Angel said seductively. “How
much,” Chase said. “Feel,” Angel replied. His hand slid down her torso as the
other held both breasts. His hand slid between her legs. “Damn,” he said.
Angel bent over and he slid inside her. It felt so urgent. He wanted her so badly,
and she craved the feeling of him inside her. He went from slow and steady to
faster and faster, until they both neared orgasm. “I love you Angel,” he said as
he got faster. “I love you Chase,” Angel said. He orgasmed, and she followed.
“Holy shit,” he said. She slowly stood back up, leaning against him. She turned
and kissed Chase. “You know, we better get ready,” Angel said. He kissed her
again, holding her against him. “Don’t want to share,” Chase said. “All yours
anyway Chase. Just have to share me with family for a few hours,” Angel said.
He kissed her again. “Go shower, then we are out of here,” Angel said. “Damn,”
Chase said. “What,” Angel replied. “All mine,” he said. He turned to head for
the shower, and Angel got herself cleaned up then got re-dressed.
She picked out her favorite suit that Chase had and laid it out. He came into the
bedroom in his towel. “So tempting,” Angel teased. “You’re the one that had
the crazy dinner idea,” Chase joked. “Later,” Angel said standing up and
wrapping her arms around him. She slid off his towel. “Don’t start unless you
intend to finish,” Chase said. “Was just going to hang up the towel to dry,”
Angel teased. She hung up the towel then fixed her lipstick. Chase stood behind
her, sliding his shirt, suit pants and tie on. “My sexy man,” Angel said. “Damn
right and don’t you ever forget it,” he said. He kissed the back of her neck. “Suit
jacket,” Angel said. He grabbed his jacket and they headed downstairs. Angel
went to slide on her heels. “No you don’t,” Chase said. “I’m fine Chase.

425. 2
Really,” Angel said. She put her heels on. Chase grabbed her flats, slipping
them into a bag and they headed to the restaurant.
They walked in and headed for the table. Chase gave his mom and dad a hug,
then made his way around the table and said hi to Angel’s dad. Chase’s mom
gave Angel a hug, and so did his dad. Lila was giggling in Angel’s mom’s arms.
“You two picked a nice place,” Chase’s dad said. “Thanks,” Chase said holding
Angel’s hand under the table. “So when’s Mark coming,” his mom asked.
“That’s what we sort of wanted to tell you,” Chase said. His mom and dad
looked at each other. Angel’s dad looked at Angel. “What is going on,” he
asked. Chase looked at Angel. She nodded. “Angel and Mark are separated and
are getting a divorce,” Chase said. “Since when,” her dad asked. “Since the past
3 or 4 months,” Angel said. “So that’s why you moved up here,” his mom said.
“Partly,” Chase replied. “What do you mean partly,” his dad asked. “Crystal
and I are getting divorced as well. I’m living with Angel at her place,” Chase
said. “No wonder we can never get in touch with you at the house,” his dad
said. “And,” Chase said. “There’s more,” her dad said. “We’re having a baby,”
Angel said. “What? Oh my goodness,” his mom said. Lila giggled. “I guess
Lila’s going to be a big sister,” her dad said. “Definitely,” Angel replied. “How
far along,” his mom asked. “Three months,” Angel replied. The waiter came
and took their dinner orders. “Wine with dinner,” he asked. “Sparkling water,”
Chase said. Angel giggled. They enjoyed the rest of their night and talked and
laughed. They got home around 10 and Lila was out cold. Chase tucked her in,
while Angel got changed for bed.
“So now that everyone knows,” Chase said. “Then we can share all of this,”
Angel said. She brushed her long blonde hair before bed. He stood behind her.
“I can’t believe you did all of this,” Chase said. “Well, you said you wanted to
tell everyone. Figured we’d start with the family,” Angel said.
He kissed her neck, and slid her satin robe off. “I see what kind of mood you’re
in,” Angel said. His arms slid around her waist. “Now you’re really all mine,”
Chase said. He slid her satin teddy straps from her shoulder and dropped the
lingerie to the floor. “Chase, you….” He kissed her hard. His tongue delved into
her mouth and entangled itself with hers. He pulled her close to him and backed
her up onto the bed, not breaking the kiss for a moment. She laid down and he
followed as she wrapped her legs around him. He let her up for air. “Now what
were you saying,” he said. “Can’t remember,” Angel said. His kisses trailed
down her torso. “Good,” he replied. He kissed her again. She could feel his
muscles against her skin. Everything about him turned her on, and now he was
all hers. He slid inside her and made love to her. Every movement was
methodic, planned and more arousing. “It’s all mine,” Chase said staring in her
eyes. “Mmm,” Angel replied. Her body gave into him over and over again. He

426. 2
came and kissed her hard as his muscles shook. “Chase,” Angel said. “Yes
sexy,” he replied. “Love you,” Angel said. “Love you too baby,” he replied as
he kissed her again. He got up and she followed, heading for the shower.
The hot water beaded against them as the soap bubbles covered them. She
washed his back, and he did hers. “I think I am still in shock,” Chase said.
“About what,” Angel asked wrapping her arms around him. “Is this really
happening? Did we really tell them? We’re really going to be together for
good,” Chase asked. Angel kissed him. “Feel real,” Angel said. “Yeah,” he said.
“Then it’s real,” Angel said. She turned the water off and they headed back to
bed. Angel slid the ring he gave her onto her ring finger and turned out the
light. She wrapped her arm around his torso and they linked fingers. He kissed
her hand. “Better,” she asked. He looked at the ring. “Exactly where it’s
supposed to be for good,” Chase said. He rolled over and wrapped his arm
around Angel. He rolled her over and pulled her against him. “This is how it’s
supposed to be. As soon as that divorce is done, I’ll show you what our lives
were supposed to be like,” Chase said. “I know you will. Been trying to prove it
to me for months,” Angel said. He kissed her neck. “Sweet dreams,” Chase said.
“Already came true,” Angel replied as she nodded off.

427. 2
Chapter 46
The next morning, Angel woke up to cramping. She reached for Chase. “What’s
wrong,” he asked. He saw her wincing. “Angel,” he said. “Back is just sore,”
Angel said. For once it wasn’t her stomach. He rubbed her back for her.
“Better,” Chase asked. “A little,” Angel replied. He grabbed his lotion from the
side table and rubbed it into her back. “Probably just the baby,” Chase said. “Or
maybe my body’s way of saying that I should stay in bed today,” Angel replied.
“That could be arranged,” Chase said kissing her. He massaged her back until
the pain subsided. “So what time you heading in to work,” Angel said. “Have a
meeting at 8,” Chase said. He looked over at the clock. He had 2 hours. He
kissed Angel again, then got up and started getting ready for work.
The minute his toe touched the water, Lila woke up. Angel went in to check on
her. She carried her back to her bed and sat with her. When Chase came out, he
smiled. “My two favorite ladies,” he said. Lila giggled. He got changed for
work, then Angel and Lila headed downstairs with him for some breakfast. He
fed Lila, and Angel put together breakfast for the two of them. “I take it your
back’s feeling better,” Chase said. “Getting there. Thanks for that this morning
by the way,” Angel said. “No problem. Anything for my lady,” Chase joked.
He cleaned Lila up, then they had breakfast while Lila played with her toys. “So
what are your plans today beautiful,” Chase asked as he had his breakfast.
“Working on another presentation, then another conference call,” Angel said.
“Fun day,” Chase said. “I know how it could be more fun, but you have to go
into the office,” Angel teased. “And just what did you have in mind,” Chase
asked. “Picnic lunch on the beach,” Angel said. “It will be a perfect day for it on
Saturday,” Chase said. “It’s a date then,” Angel said. Chase washed up, then
headed out to the office after a quick kiss goodbye from Angel.
“Now that it’s just you and me,” Angel said to Lila. She walked over and sat
down with her, then logged onto her computer. She turned on Lila’s favorite
show, then started on her presentation. By the time it got to Lila’s naptime,
Angel was almost done. She tucked Lila in for her nap, showered, then headed
downstairs to finish and have her conference call.
“Look forward to discussing it with you more,” Angel said hanging up from the
call. She put something together for lunch for herself and Lila, then snuck
upstairs to check on her. She woke up as Angel was half way up the steps.
“How was your nap princess,” Angel asked. Lila put her head on Angel’s
shoulder. “I la you mama,” Lila said. “I love you too sweetheart,” Angel
replied. “Where Dada,” Lila said. “Dada is at home,” Angel said. “I la dada,”
Lila said. “That’s good,” Angel replied. “Bear,” Lila said. Angel grabbed her
teddy bear from the bed, changed Lila, then took her downstairs for lunch. The

428. 2
minute she put Lila in her high chair, there was a knock at the door. Angel
looked. “Great,” she said to herself. “What Mark,” Angel said. “We need to
talk,” Mark said. Angel went to close the door and Mark stepped into the house.
She sat down to feed Lila. “Dada,” Lila said. “Hello princess,” he said. Angel
fed Lila. “I heard what you did last night,” Mark said. “That’s nice,” Angel
replied. She finished feeding Lila, then put her in the playroom with her toys.
“Angel,” Mark said. “What,” Angel replied cleaning up from lunch. He grabbed
her arm. “Angel. Why did you tell them we were getting divorced,” Mark
asked. “Because we are Mark. As soon as you get your damn proof, we are done
for good. Got it,” Angel said. He pulled her close to him. “No. We never will
be,” Mark said kissing Angel and leaning her against the counter. She pushed
him away. “I am not a toy for you to pick up and play with Mark. Leave me
alone,” Angel said. “You’re still my wife. End of discussion,” he said. “Not for
long I’m not,” Angel said. “You want to spend time with Lila fine. You want to
spend time with me, you can walk out right now,” Angel said. She went to walk
to the playroom and he grabbed her hand. “Angel, enough of the cold shoulder.
I want my wife back,” Mark said.
Angel went and sat down, going through her emails again. “What do I have to
do to convince you to come back,” Mark asked. “There’s nothing you can do.
I’m not going back, I’m not coming back to you, and I am certainly not sleeping
with you ever again as long as I live and breathe on this planet,” Angel said.
Mark took her laptop and put it on the table. “I swear. Why do you have to
make everything so damn difficult,” Mark said. He sat down beside her. “Yeah
okay Mark. I’m the one who was playing around with every woman in the
damn city,” Angel said. She went to get up and he pulled her back to the sofa.
“Mark, quit it,” Angel said. He reached over and kissed her. She gave in for a
split second, then pushed him away. “What did I just say to you Mark,” Angel
asked. “You know you are just being mad. We always knew how to fix it before
didn’t we,” he said. He kissed her again. She went to get up and he refused to
let her out of the kiss. He leaned her against the wall. She tried to push him
away, but he held her hands.
The memories came rushing back to her. The nights she had spent in his arms.
The evenings they’d spent on the water, on the beach, in the water, watching the
sunsets. She pushed him away as he undid the last button of her sweater. “No
Mark. No more. I am done with this. No more coming here and trying to talk
me out of what I want. Go,” Angel said. He kissed her again. A single tear fell
from her eyes. She pushed him away and took Lila in her arms and carried her
upstairs. She put her in her playpen upstairs. “Angel. Goddammit. Get back
here,” Mark said. He followed Angel up the steps. “Not one more step Mark.
You are not coming up here,” Angel said. She went into her room and grabbed
her cell. She sent Chase a text. Mark grabbed the phone as she pressed send.

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They had a code for these moments. He put the phone away. “We are going to
discuss this like adults. No disruptions,” Mark said. “Discuss what? You
screwing every damn woman in the entire city? You lying to me for over a year?
What,” Angel said. She sat down on the edge of the bed. “I don’t know why
you won’t listen,” Mark said. “To what? More lies? You’re acting like you
haven’t done a damn thing wrong,” Angel said. He sat down beside her. “Why
can’t you see that I am sorry. I made a mistake. Forgive me,” Mark said. “No,”
Angel said. “What the hell do you mean no,” Mark said. “Just what I said Mark.
No,” Angel replied. “You mean no you won’t forgive me or no you can’t see that
I am sorry,” Mark said. “You’re sorry you screwed up because now you can’t
get me back in your bed to lie to and deceive again,” Angel said. She got up and
he grabbed her hand. “I can’t let this go on anymore Angel,” Mark said. “Let
what go on? Me being happy without you,” Angel asked. “You not being with
who you should,” Mark said. He stood up and pulled her to him again. He
kissed her and wrapped his arms around her. “I am your husband, and that is
one thing that won’t be changing,” Mark said. He went to slide her sweater off
and she broke free of him. “No Mark. You can’t have me anymore. Don’t you
get it? I am in love with Chase. I have been for years. No matter how much you
try, that won’t go away. The minute he reappeared in my life, you started
screwing up. Your fault, not his. He reminded me why we shouldn’t have been
together at all. Fact is, he was right. What’s done is done Mark. Let it go,”
Angel said walking away. He grabbed her arm as she got to the door.
He pulled her to him and kissed her again. “You and I are supposed to be
together forever. It’s a long time from now,” Mark said. “Not for you it isn’t.
You forgot about that after a damn week of being married,” Angel said pushing
him away and bringing Lila back downstairs. The minute she put Lila in her
playpen, Chase walked in. Angel wrapped her arms around him. “Got your
message,” he said. “Get out Mark. Now,” Chase said. “She’s my wife Chase. I
will damn well stay if I want to,” Mark said. Chase went to throw a punch. “No.
Not in the house,” Angel said. “Fine. Outside,” Mark said. “Would you two
stop? This isn’t going to solve anything,” Angel said. “Yes it will,” Mark said.
He went to walk towards the door. “If you two even think about it, don’t think
you are coming back in this house,” Angel said. Chase turned around and
pinned her into the wall kissing her. It was so intense, she got weak in the knees.
He walked away. “Chase,” Angel said. He kissed her again. “That’s what she
wants Mark. She wants me,” Chase said. Angel wrapped Chase’s arms around
her and stood between him and Mark. “Enough,” Angel said. “He wants a fight,
that’s what he’s gonna get. I am not giving you up,” Mark said. “She isn’t yours
to fight for anymore Mark,” Chase said. “Enough,” Angel said. “It isn’t over
Angel. You’re my wife. Not his,” Mark said. “She wants me Mark. You blew it
big,” Chase said. “Enough,” Angel said. “You two can’t be civilized, then both
of you can get the hell out.” Angel went and got Lila, grabbed the baby bag and

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walked out of the house. She put Lila in her car seat and pulled out of the
driveway.
Angel headed down to the beach, parked the car and went and sat in the sand
with Lila. Lila played. Angel sat and thought about what had just happened.
Mark had been a part of her life, but how could he even think that after all of that
she would stay? He had to be really seriously not thinking. After all the things
he’d done. She watched Lila in the sand. She was the most important thing. She
had to be. It started getting dark. Angel packed up and put Lila back in her
carseat then headed out for dinner. She relaxed and played with Lila then
thought about heading home. She hadn’t brought her cell. She waited then
headed back to the house. She came inside with Lila asleep in her arms. Chase
was sitting on the sofa. She came in and headed upstairs to tuck Lila into bed.
She slid her into a clean diaper and slid on her sleeper, then tucked her in. She
came out into the hall and closed the door. Chase was still downstairs.
Angel walked back downstairs. “Where did you go,” Chase asked. “The beach,
then to amore,” Angel said. “I was worried about you,” Chase said. “You two
settle things? See whose dick was bigger,” Angel asked getting herself a glass of
ice water. “He wants you just as bad as I do,” Chase said. “So you didn’t give
me an answer,” Angel said. He got up and walked towards her. “Angel. He
said he wants you to be happy, but he wants it to be with him,” Chase said. “I
know that,” Angel said. “Fact is that I can’t let him do that,” Chase said.
“Meaning,.” Angel asked. “Meaning that I told him that you two were done. If
he loved you he would let you go and be happy,” Chase said. “And that
worked,” Angel asked. She sipped her water. “Yes. He said he loves you and
will wait forever for you to come back to him,” Chase said. Angel put her glass
in the sink and went upstairs. She went into the bedroom, locking the door
behind her.
He walked up the steps. “Angel,” he said knocking on the door. He heard her
sniffling. “Angel, open the door,” Chase asked. She opened it and she was in
her jeans, her sweater and her boots and her eyes were puffy and red. She
grabbed her purse and walked past him. She walked down the stairs and he
followed. “Where are you going,” he asked. She was still sniffling. She walked
out the door and hopped in the truck. She pulled out. “Angel,” he said. She
headed for the highway. She got down to the park they’d always gone to. She
parked. She opened the window and breathed in the fresh air. She leaned back
and turned the truck off.
Chase got Missy to the house to look after Lila and headed straight for the park.
She had to be there. He got a friend to drive him. They pulled in. “Stop here.
I’ll get out. Go,” Chase said. He walked across the street and his friend headed

431. 2
home. He got to the truck and she wasn’t there. The keys were gone, alarm was
on and her purse was gone. He walked towards the boardwalk. She was
standing there watching the water. Her hair was shining in the moonlight.
“Angel,” he said pulling his jacket off. He saw her wiping the tears away. He
put his jacket on her shoulders and wrapped his arms around her. “Baby,”
Chase said. “I can’t believe you said that Chase,” Angel said sniffling and still
crying. “What,” he said. “If you love someone set them free,” Angel said.
“Why? I did and you came back to me. I let go a long time ago, but we found
our way back to each other. We were meant to be together,” Chase said. Angel
turned towards him. He wiped her tears away. “Baby.” He wrapped his arms
around her and held her close. “It’s just so….so….” Angel tried to stop the
crying. “He’s letting go of you and him. He just wants to be close to Lila and
once he realizes that the baby is mine for sure, he’s going to leave us alone,”
Chase said. Her head was tight against his chest. “Everything’s going to be okay
baby.” He kissed her forehead. “Can I take you home?” She nodded. He
walked to the car with her and opened the door for her. He hopped in and took
the long scenic route home.
His arm was around her all the way home. She fell asleep the minute they got to
the highway. He pulled into the driveway and carried her upstairs to bed.
Missy headed home, yawning all the way. “Thanks baby,” Chase said. Missy
gave him a kiss goodnight and walked home. He headed back upstairs and got
undressed. He slid Angel’s boots and jeans off, then slid her sweater off. He
wrapped his arms around her. She linked her fingers with his. “You awake,” he
said. She wrapped his arm around her torso. “Take it that’s a yes.” “I love
you,” Angel said. “Loved you forever already,” Chase said. He kissed her neck.
“Faked being asleep didn’t you,” Chase asked. She giggled. “Was actually
asleep until the truck stopped,” Angel said. Her body curved into his. “Tease,”
he said. “Not teasing,” Angel said. “Really,” he said. Angel moved his hand
from her torso, downwards. “Oh really,” he joked.
He felt how wet she was and it got him aroused. She turned her head to kiss
him. She felt him against her. She turned to face him and he wrapped her legs
around him. “I want you baby,” Chase said. “Want you too,” Angel said as he
kissed her neck. She exhaled and it felt like a weight had been lifted. He made
love to her and finally all the tension was gone. She didn’t have to worry that
Mark was going to freak out, or walk in. She didn’t have to worry that someday
she’d wake up and it would all be a dream. He was real. He was hers. For
tonight, they were together for good.

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A few months later

433. 2
Chapter 47
Chase got up in the morning, and as per usual, got Lila ready for her day. He
headed upstairs to check on Angel. “Everything okay,” Chase asked. “Would
you stop. I am not due for another week Chase,” Angel joked. She rolled out of
bed and headed for the shower. “Just getting anxious is all,” he said. Lila was in
her room with her toys. She had been the perfect little princess through
everything. She was calling Chase dad.
Angel enjoyed her hot shower, letting the water bead down onto her skin. She
couldn’t wait to see the baby. They still had no idea whether it was a boy or girl.
They both wanted the surprise. She felt a hard kick. “Well good morning to you
too baby,” Angel said. She stepped out and into her towel. Another kick.
“Guess someone wants to play soccer when they grow up,” Angel said. Chase
kissed her. “As long as the baby has 10 fingers and 10 toes we are good,” Chase
said. “Why are you getting so nervous Chase. You have other kids. You know
what’s coming,” Angel said. “Just don’t want to miss anything,” Chase said.
Angel went and got dressed then had breakfast. About 10 minutes in, she felt a
sharp pain. When it came back every 5 minutes, Angel grabbed her bag.
“Chase,” Angel said. He’d taken the week off knowing that the baby would
probably be early. He picked up Lila and came downstairs. “What’s up babes,”
he asked. “Truck,” she said. “Now,” he asked. Angel nodded. She slowly
made her way to the truck and Chase dropped Lila off with Crystal.
They made it to the hospital in 15 minutes. “You are definitely in labor,” the
doctor said. Chase paged his parents, Angel’s parents and Mark. In a few hours,
everyone was there. By 5pm, Angel had a baby boy in her arms. “I can’t believe
this,” Angel said. “He’s perfect,” Chase said. He had his arms around Angel and
their eyes were set on the perfect little boy. “What did we decide for the name,”
Angel asked. “Jason Marcus,” Chase said. “He even looks like a Jason,” Angel
joked. He was the spitting image of Chase. The doctor took a sample to do the
DNA testing again. Angel’s mom snuck in. “Well,” they asked. “Jason Marcus
Lockheart,” Angel said. “A boy? Oh my goodness,” they said. Her parents
came in, followed by his parents, Mark, Angel’s friends from California and the
doctor. “I’ll have those results you wanted in the morning,” the doctor said.
Angel nodded and he headed out. Jason got passed from family member to
family member, then Mark got a hold of the baby. “Has your eyes Angel,” Mark
said. Chase curled up on the bed with her. “That he does,” she replied. Chase
held her in his arms. There was a little knock at the door. Crystal showed with
the other kids. They ran in and saw the baby. “So what did you decide to name
him,” she asked Chase. “Jason Marcus Lockheart,” Chase said. Mark looked up.
Angel smiled. The kids all welcomed the baby, then Lila curled up on the bed
with Chase and Angel. “Baby,” Lila said. “Your little brother,” Angel replied.

434. 2
She hugged Angel. “Why don’t I take care of her for a little while so you two can
get settled,” Angel’s mom asked. “Thanks,” Angel said. “No problem,” she
replied. She headed out with Lila, and all the other parents and friends left. It
was just Mark, Chase and Angel. Angel and Chase started nodding off. Mark
was enamored. Angel and Chase napped and Mark took care of the baby.
An hour or two later, Angel woke up. Mark had tears in his eyes and was
talking to Jason. “You are so lucky to have her. She loves you more than
anything already and it’s only been a few hours. You’ll see me around. I’m
Lila’s daddy. One little secret, I wish I was yours too,” Mark said looking out the
window at the sunset. “Mark,” Angel whispered. He turned around and tried to
wipe away the tears. “Thought you were napping,” he whispered. “I was.
Think the instincts kicked back in. He’s going to be up any second wanting
milk,” Angel said. Mark handed her the baby. “You okay,” she asked quietly.
He nodded. The baby’s eyes opened and Angel fed him. “How did you know,”
Mark said. “Know what? That he was hungry,” Angel asked. “That he wasn’t
mine,” Mark asked. “I just knew Mark. At one point I almost wished he was,
but I knew better. Not that I didn’t love you, but things are better this way,”
Angel said. “I just want to see you smile. I want you to be happy no matter
what,” Mark said. “I am,” Angel replied. “I have a baby gift for you,” Mark
said. He handed her an envelope. “What’s this,” she asked. “Read it later. Not
important right now,” he said. He kissed Angel. The way he used to kiss her
every morning, every night and every second of the day. He headed out the
door and closed it behind him.
He leaned against the wall in the hallway and slid to the floor. “I really have lost
her,” he said to himself. “It’s all my damn fault. I lost the best thing that ever
happened to me. The best part of me is in there with a baby. “Are you okay sir,”
a nurse said passing by. “I don’t know, but I will be,” Mark said. She handed
him some Kleenex. He looked up. She was kind and caring. Something about
her was so familiar…the eyes. “So how do you know Angel,” she asked. “She’s
my….um…” he said. “You must be Mark right,” she asked. “Yes,” he replied.
“I’m Ava. I’m her cousin,” she said. “Really,” he said. “Well, a cousin she
hasn’t seen in a while, but still. I am her cousin,” she replied. “Think she’s
taking care of Jason. Did you want to go for a coffee,” he asked. “Sure,” she
replied as they headed off down the hall.
The minute he heard the baby, Chase was awake. “What’s wrong,” he said.
“Nothing. He just finished dinner,” Angel said. “Oh,” Chase replied. He
wrapped his arms around Angel. “Well well. Finally we have another man in
the house,” Chase joked. “Ha ha very funny,” Angel teased. “He is pretty
handsome isn’t he.” “Has those Lockheart fingers,” Chase said. “Looks like his
dad,” Angel replied. “After all of this, he doesn’t know how much he’s loved,”

435. 2
Chase said. “Think he might,” Angel said. “What’s in the envelope,” Chase
asked. “Something for me,” Angel replied. “Hand my little man over then,”
Chase said. He took Jason and Angel opened the envelope. There was a CD in
it. It said “press play” on it. She put it in the CD player. It started to play.
‘Three times a lady’ by Lionel Richie came on. Angel smiled. She took the other
things out. There was a letter addressed to her.
Dear Angel:
I am so glad that you found what makes you happy. I
wish it could have been me, but I understand why it
can’t now. I am so sorry for everything I have done
and all the pain I have caused you. To be honest, I
love you so much that it scares me sometimes. Since
the day that we met, I was in love with you. I really
don’t know what I would ever do without you. I guess
I am going to have to learn.
What Chase said all that time ago must have been
right. I was fighting a battle I had no right to be in.
When you walked out, it was my rock bottom. I think I
hit something that told me that I was making the
biggest mistake of my life. Something made me fight
for you. Honestly, I would give up my life to make you
happy. That’s all I ever wanted.
I have put you through a million things that would
make you walk away. I don’t know why I did them.
Maybe because I was somehow testing you. Maybe
because I was trying to control something that I
couldn’t. I should have cherished you like Chase does.
We should have had what you two have. I guess it’s
like 20/20 hindsight now. I am so sorry for what I
have done to us.

436. 2
I know that you can never accept me back into your
life as anything more than a friend and a dad to Lila,
but I hope you can accept my apology. I really am
sorry. I love you so much that I really can’t go on
without you. I can’t forget what we have gone
through, and I can’t forget that it was my fault. I
hurt you so badly that you felt the need to run, and I
won’t forgive myself for doing it.
Whether the baby is mine or not, I want to make sure
that you will be okay. You, Lila and the new baby are
my priority. I set up a trust fund over the past few
months for Lila and you. I don’t ever want you to not
be able to do something you want to. I want you to
have everything and for Lila to have everything she
ever wanted. I enclosed the bank book.
I love you. Don’t ever forget that I do. If you ever
change your mind, I’ll be waiting for you to come home.
Love Mark
She had tears streaming from her eyes. She looked in the other envelope and
saw the bank book. She opened it. She almost dropped it when she saw the
amounts. “What’s in that envelope,” Chase asked noticing an unopened
envelope in her lap. She opened it. She only saw one line…..PETITION FOR
DIVORCE.
Chase looked over. “You have to be kidding me,” he said. “He signed them,”
Angel said. She opened them and they had been delivered to the court in
California. She read through them. He wanted shared custody of Lila, visitation
with the new baby, if it was his, and would give her a lump sum of money every
month for spousal and child support. The house in California would be hers to
visit whenever she asked, the cottage was hers and he agreed to fly them both
out there once or twice a year for a visit. That’s all. Nothing else. No loopholes,

437. 2
no nothing. That was it. She folded them back up and put them into the
envelope. “Before his first birthday,” Chase said. “Before his birthday what,”
Angel said. “They’re both final at the same time,” Chase said. “Then we have
lots of time,” Angel replied. “It’s really going to happen,” Chase said.
When they finally got to come home from the hospital, Chase walked Jason to his
new room. He’d finished the redecorating and put everything together. He laid
Jason down in the bed and tucked him in. Angel sat downstairs on her sofa. She
stared out the window. The sun was just starting to set. It was a perfect clear
evening. No storms, no clouds. She leaned back. Chase came downstairs and
curled up with her. “You’ve been kind of quiet,” Chase said, “Just thinking,”
she replied. “About what,” he asked. “Us,” Angel said. She linked her fingers
with his. “What about us,” Chase asked.
They’d been through so much over the long time they’d known each other. The
ups and downs, their marriages, the troubles. Somehow he was right. He let her
go so long ago and they found their way back to each other. To the one thing
that was meant to last forever. Chase heard Jason wake up, and he ran upstairs
to get him. He changed him and brought him back downstairs. She watched
Chase with Jason and smiled. Her mom snuck in and brought Lila home. Lila
was already half asleep and demanded to curl up with Angel. They all sat
together after her mom left and watched the labor day fireworks from their
window. Once the fireworks were done, Angel sat and still stared out the
window. There was just the stars outside. She saw one shoot across the sky.
“Don’t need to wish anymore,” Angel said to herself. She smiled and looked at
her little family. “ How could I ever top this? It couldn’t be more perfect.”