Um, I'm iffy about this but trippie Ang loves it so that's a HUGE sigh of relieve, big up to trippie Mika for the name :heart:. An Exq exclusive I just hope ya'll like it. Here it goes: please leave your thoughts good bad ugly but gentle ugly. K I'll shut up now. :wub:

LIKE NURI'S JUST A GODDESS! THANKS doesn't begin to describe THIS gorgeous banner



*Prologue*


Whitney Russell, loved by all, anything she put her mind to was a complete success. It was no surprise Whitney received straight A’s. At age 6 she started playing the violin and was so exquisitely graceful the top prestigious schools in New York got quick word on the lovely Ms. Russell they quickly wanted to get their grips on her. Eve refused to let either of her daughters grow up too fast, something she unfortunately couldn’t escape growing up. Vowing history wouldn’t repeat itself Eve was determined to keep her word to her prides and joys. While growing up, Whitney also mastered playing the piano, ballet, and horse back riding. It helped a great deal that Eve Johnson instilled in her girls that ‘no star was unreachable or too bright to shine down on you’. Growing up with the mentality of having it all, Simone and Whitney left very little room for disappoint. In fact, that word wasn’t even apart of their vocabulary. Especially Whitney’s, thankfully she was grounded with the help of her two favorite girls, behind her mother of course, her older sister Simone and her childhood best friend, Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald.




You could say Simone was better at grounding her littler sister, Theresa needed some grounding herself, even though she was indeed a big part and a big help in the modesty department. Whitney Russell was use to results, quickly no less, and Simone and Theresa would have to *remind* their beloved Whitney that the world was just not created in a day. College years were quickly approaching Whitney, normally she’d share the excitement of the next step, another stage in growing up with Theresa but she had demons she just wasn’t ready to share with her nearest and dearest; and even though Whitney knew something was haunting Theresa, she wouldn’t dare press the issue, she too had a skeleton she desperately wanted to keep suppressed, all the while struggling with the constant battle of deciding whether to come clean or not. Simone was only a year older than Whitney, she was an expecting newlywed that just didn’t have college on her immediate time tables…leaving Whitney to prepare for something she never had to before, the idea of a solo act. Going far-far away seemed sweeter by the second. How sweet she was yet to find out.



Across America just wasn’t far enough for Ms. Russell she needed a body of water as well. Shoot if she could she’d live on another planet but this is the real world. Her body of water led her to Oxford University in London, England. Oxford is where she meets what eventually became her other best friend Gwendolyn Hotchkiss, heiress to Hotchkiss Enterprises, along with her younger sister Jade, one of the largest stock broker companies and one of the biggest internationally in the world, right along side Crane Industries. Whitney and Gwen were inseparable; you could say they were one another’s escape to the real reason why they were both overseas. Learning they were both Harmony natives ironically developed their friendship. Both Whitney and Gwen thought they would be friends forever that was until sophomore year arrived…second semester to be exact, Dylan Banning took the liberty of assigning himself the elephant between Whitney and Gwen.



Dylan was a star point guard with grades sinking faster than Titanic ever could; so when the Provost ordered Dylan immediate tutoring, straight A ace Whitney was on becking call. All it took was two encounters and Whitney fell so hard her jaw is still on the ground. Whitney would never admit her feelings, for several reasons but mainly because she was shy, fearless Russell was actually shy. When she thought she was making headway with Dylan, her fantasy came crashing down when he took one look at her best friend Gwen, adding salt to her injury, Dylan asked for Whit’s assistance in bringing him and Gwen together. Let’s find out how this oversized grey trunk was down sized.




Meanwhile in Harmony, Nicholas Foxworth Crane, second in line to the Crane throne was trying desperately to mend a broken heart. He really thought Gwen returned his feelings and that they could actually be a couple, happy, grow old together. The imagery was so vivid in his mind; he knew it was a long shot because Gwen was also his big brother’s longtime love. They were childhood sweethearts, ‘destined’ according to outsiders but to the Cranes and Hotchkiss’ they were a business merger that would make two of the most powerful families in the world…UNSTOPABLE.




That’s why Fox thought he had a shot, since Gwen was stuck with obeying ‘duties’ but he didn’t bank on Gwen actually falling in love with Ethan. Over the years the love dimmed, but Ethan and Gwen’s relationship always lacked one important factor, passion. Fox’s friends always thought he was insane to be hung up on Gwen when he could easily have Jade. He just brushed them off because he was convinced and still is that Gwen is her soulmate…she has to be right?

~1~
Just Pray…

“Just forget it…” Dylan roughly ran his right hand through his dirty blond, shoulder length locks.

“There’s just too many rules to this grammar crap.” Dylan got up, walked out the study den and headed straight down the mahogany spiral stairs.

“Dylan wait…” Whitney immediately took after him.

“Don’t give up.” Finally reaching her parquet floor in the home she shared with Gwen. Whitney quickly skipped in front of Dylan, stopping his power walk to the exit.

“I mean look at how great you felt when you finally understood statistics…” “That’s because you compared it to basketball stats.” Dylan finished, slouching slightly.

“Ok…so I’ll do that again.” Whitney unconsciously started pacing in front of Dylan, tugging away at her favorite curly lock, located right behind her left ear. “Not sure how to incorporate English with basketball but I’ll find away…not to worry.” Whitney rubbed his arm, hoping her reassurance helped him. Dylan just grabbed her in hug. At first she was resilient but who was Whitney kidding? Dylan’s arms are the only place she wants to be. Whitney just accepted the embrace and rested her head on his firm chest.

“No one’s ever believed in me the way you do.” Releasing their embrace, Dylan brushed away a strand of hair from Whitney’s face that seemed to bother him more than her. It’s bad enough Whitney has to resist her urges when hugging him, but now this man is touching her. Oh no, Whitney Russell knowing she wouldn’t be in complete control, especially is such close proximity to his intoxicating smell, inches away from his piercing blue eyes and seconds away from those lips. God those lips…how she ached for them. Nope, Whitney Russell knew better. That’s why she quickly walked into the foyer, trying desperately to shake this powerful hold that Dylan Banning has on her. Or at least hide it as best she could, Whitney took a deep breath.

“Well it’s easy believing in you, just wish you saw how easy…well I’ll work on one miracle at a time.” Dylan laughed; Whitney turned around and shared his laughter. “After all I’m not Ghandi. So how bout’ another go at this?” “Actually I was thinking of heading…”

“WHIT!” Gwen excitedly ran into the foyer not even closing the door, dropping everything.

“GUESS what? I did it!!! I Gwendolyn Hotchkiss got an A on my quantum physics exam!!!” Jumping up and down, she grabbed Whitney in a bear hug.

“All thanks to you…what would I do without you?” Gwen released her hold. “Um…you’d be pretty lost.” Whitney playfully finished.

“Damn right. I’m so glad you talked me into staying pre-med.” Gwen hugged her once again, this time a little tighter, shaking her back and forth. “Gw….Gw…can’t breathe”

Dylan thought it was refreshing to see such an amazing friendship displayed. He loved it. It even made him a bit envious. He thought nothing will come between this bond. If he only knew…“She’s the best indeed, a true gem.” Dylan added.

“Oh sorry….I got a little too excited…oh hi Dylan, didn’t see you. How’s it going?” Fully releasing Whitney, Gwen turned around to face Dylan. She asked while, hugging him, Dylan’s 6’5 ¼ frame caused Gwen to slightly tip toe. Dylan buried his head in Gwen’s equally blond hair and closed his eyes, slightly rattling Whitney’s nerves.

“Yeah…DYLAN…why don’t I walk you out.” Insinuating herself between them, she grabbed Dylan’s arm.

“You’re leaving? And miss witnessing my first attempt at cooking.” She beamed. “I was hoping you’d stay.” Gwen finished. “I’d love to.” Dylan gave Gwen an assuring smile.

“Didn’t you have something to take care of?” blurted Whitney. Dylan squinted his eyes, trying to recollect if he indeed told Whitney alone those lines, and was almost positive he didn’t. But Whitney would never lie to him; she’s the purist person he knew.

“I guess it wasn’t that important because I can’t remember.” Dylan softly nudged Whitney on her shoulder blade, apparently not soft enough. Whitney lost her balance a bit.

“Whoa…I got ya…guess I’m stronger than I realized.” Dylan winked at Whitney then turned his attention back to Gwen. “Do you mind if I watch?” Dylan asked shyly, almost proud he was that bold, but surprised more than anything. He’s finally taking Whitney’s advice. She reluctantly told him to just be himself, as natural as possible because it’s the easiest way for Gwen to see his genuine side. Even if Whitney longed for Dylan, and his choice wasn’t her, she still wanted him happy. BUT Whitney did rely on the fact that Gwen was still hung up on her ex. The infamous nameless ex, she’s still, after two years mysterious about. Whitney felt this man was the key to snagging HER man. Whitney wouldn’t dare pry, she knows her friend will confide in her at the right time…Oxford taught Whitney its all about timing. So she’ll wait…impatiently of course. This is Whitney Russell we’re talking about, baby steps…baby steps. She made a self vow, the moment Gwen developed feelings for Dylan, she would officially drop out as a contender in the race to Dylan Banning’s heart.

“Of course I don’t mind…coming Whit?” She broke the glare she shared with Dylan to make eye contact with Whitney. Whitney knew Dylan was just waiting for an opportunity like this to arrive, the chance to be alone with Gwen.

“In a bit, I have to do something, would you excuse me.” Gwen nodded and headed to their kitchen, while Dylan mouthed ‘Thank You’ and quickly followed Gwen.

Desperately trying to fight back the tears, she gritted her teeth, clasping her jaw, almost numb to the fact that she bit part of her tongue to the point of breaking the skin. Whitney just gave him a half smile and headed straight to her room. Finding herself pacing rapidly in front of her bed, feeling like a volcano seconds away from erupting thousands degrees of deadly heat, dying to be unleashed. Whitney knew she needed an enormous amount of water that will create harmless ashes. Only one person can provide her that, her lord and savior, Jesus Christ. Whitney went to her nightstand and opened the drawer to take out her gold and onyx rosary she’s had since birth. Something her mother gave her and her sister, after getting them blessed by Father Lonigan. Whitney kneeled down in front of her bed and just started speaking from the best place she knew, her heart.

“Hey big guy, I know its been a while and I won’t even try and make up excuses.” She took a deep breath.

“See the truth is I just wasn’t motivated enough…and I was honestly mad at you.” Exhaling what seemed like a breath of bricks sitting comfortably on her shoulders.

“You’re probably wondering why I was so mad huh? Whitney brushed away her baby hair she’s not too fond of.

“Well as cliché as this sounds…Why me? Flinching her shoulders expecting an answer.

“I mean why not me? Why her? I’m the one that brought slight confidence back in his system, academically of course. We all know that enormous unbreakable bubble Dylan created about being the best basketball player on Earth is safely secure. Don’t worry I’m trying to trim or pop it but he’s just so cute.” She chucked the sighed.

“And I know self praise is no praise EVEN if I’m the best at anything I try as if I was officially dubbed Goddess of Greatness.” Smiling a bit.

“Riiiiiiiiiight Whit, so if that’s the case why don’t you have this love thing down pack?” She started rubbing her rosary with her index finger.

“That’s another thing I desperately need an answer, sign, something…do I love this man? I haven’t known him long, only two months. TWO months…can that be enough. I sadly wouldn’t trade these two months for anything else in the world…well…except…NO Whitney that part of your life is in the past it has to be and God will help me keep it that way.”

“Ok God back to our one on one, I really don’t like the fact that I have these ill thoughts about my friend, who’s also my roommate. It’s just not right. I mean before this man came into our lives, well mine before Gwen stole his attention away…see what I mean! Anyway Gwen and I were like peanut butter and jelly like nappy hair and a hot comb…that perfect mix. Now I catch myself giving her dirty looks and I’m begging you to help me stop this evil so I don’t lose a great friend. She’s the only family I have out here.” Whitney slightly opened her right eye and made direct eye contact with her clock displaying right above her bed head. 2:15 pm on the dot.

“Well its 9ish in the morning back home…speaking of home, as always can you do me the favor of watching over everyone I love. Like my parents, my sister, my niece, my brother-in-law and his family. Of course Theresa, Pilar and Paloma, even though I haven’t touched base with them in a while, that’s my home away from home. Theresa will always be my sister. I truly hope she’s worked out her demon’s…I know I haven’t. Of course keep guiding my girl Gwen. Even watch out for the two people I can’t bring myself to name…please watch over them too.”

“Thank you for the precious gift of life, my health I try very hard not to take for granted, and the blessing of knowing my family and friends as well as their lives and health. Oh thanks for listening, caring and loving me. Amen.”

Whitney made the sign of the cross and she crawled to her nightstand to put away her rosary, staring at her cordless phone. Contemplating. “Might as well.” Picking up the phone, now sitting in Indian style, Whitney started dialing. “Come on pick up…”

“Hello?”

“Oh thank goodness you picked up, I did what…”

“Wait who is this?”

“Who is this?” Unconsciously mimicking her, “Its your sister Mone.” Almost insulted Simone didn’t recognize her voice; Whitney caught herself giving her phone a dirty look.

“WOW” was all Simone could utter as she held the phone with one hand, and trying to feed an impatient Dominique Grace with the other. Domi just hated carrots, in fact that child didn’t do veggies, and normally she feeds herself but her parents knew veggies needed assistance getting in that stubborn mouth of hers. In fact Domi thought she could outsmart her mother, if she made her mother laugh, her mother would forget all about feeding her carrots. Domi didn’t know what she was in for.

“I know…I suck, I haven’t called in months but…”

“No its not that, well that too, I’d lay in you right now but I’m trying to feed your annoying niece. Who is working my last.”

“AWWWWWW how’s my baby doing? Gosh she must be cuter than the last time I saw her…” Twirling her hair, smiling at the thought of her amazingly niece.

“Just a tad…I mean its only been a year.” Simone put the phone under her ear. Finally, round one, Domi vs. Mommy was over. Mommy 1, Domi 0. Simone knew from previous altercations this next task would take two hands. The second thing Domi hated more than anything was a clean face. Simone just came to the conclusion that her daughter loved the results of her much thought out project of playing with her food. To Domi being clean just defeats that purpose. Domi started screaming as she smacked her mother in the face, causing the phone to fall to the ground. Domi started giggling hysterically. The score, dead even…not for long.

“HAHAHA GO DOMI!!” joked Whitney.

“I heard that you A fill in the middle S, be right back.” She left the kitchen with screaming Domi in tow.

Whitney heard movement like the phone was being picked up from the ground. “That was quick.”

“My oh my…sexy Brit voice. How’d I get so lucky?”

“Jack?”

“Wait do I know you? Of course I do, you’re sexy. So remind me of how I rocked your world?”

Whitney just rolled her eyes. “I see you haven’t changed one bit.” Simone came back into the kitchen and tried grabbing the phone from Jack but he was quicker.

“Whitney? My goddess?” Jackson Henry grabbed his heart.

“Yeah I bet I am.”

“So when are we getting married?”

“Not sure but I cleared my schedule on hell freezing over. So don’t you worry, a promise is a promise and when that day arrives we’ll happily graduate from the school of holy matrimony.”

Jack found Whitney the most amazing woman he’s ever meet. Growing up he’s always had a crush on her, and their siblings being high school sweethearts and getting married only helped solidify his feelings. Sure Jack was a player but he’d drop that lifestyle if he knew he even had a chance with Whitney Russell.

“So you’re just going to let our daughter cry at the top of her lungs like that? Simone stopped struggling with her brother-in-law to face her husband.

“Yup, why you plan on taking her to work with you because that’s the only way she’s being removed from that playpen.”

“No, and stop doing that, asking a question with a question such a chick…”

“Don’t you dare finish that thought Noah Samuel Bennett.” Simone warned.

“Hold on gorgeous, Noah finish it, I DARE you.” Jack added egging on his older brother.

“You shut that lid of yours before I make you sleep with Isis.”

“That’s fine, I’ll even swap her room is bigger than mine and she’s a DOG…oops sorry baby I’m back.” Whitney laughed, and Jack walked into the living room.

Simone went after him but Noah stopped her, “What?”

“I was thinking about going to see my dad later on.”

“Ok, so what’s the problem? I know you’re not waiting for my ok…”

“Hell no…” Simone arched her eyebrow and folded her arms. “I mean not that I wouldn’t mind it…but I’m not looking for it.” Noah half smiled, Simone returned it with a fake one and Noah knew this too.

“Oh I get it; you want me to decide for you…sorry not going to happen.” Simone pecked her husband on the lips. “Only you know whether it’s a good idea to go see him or not. Now will you excuse me I have a sister to save.” Simone finally got the phone away from Jack and shoved him in the kitchen.

Simone sat on her burgundy L shaped leather chair in her living room. The Victorian house she shared with her husband and free loader brother-in-law had three beautiful gigantic bay windows in the front, where the living room was. Simone decided on a combination of warm and cool colors for the room. The walls were a rich burnt orange with a gold finish, on her windows she had burgundy drapes that were never closed and were skinned open by golden tassels, which matched the sporadic floral arrangement on the drapes as she had plants all over her room, to enhance the beautiful sunlight that evaded that room everyday, the perfect touch and combination to the naturally homey feel, she successfully achieved.

“Ok Ms. Brit what’s up?” Simone was lazily lounging on the couch, hugging a beige pillow.

“Oh no, not you too…I don’t sound British.”

“Whatever, time is money I know you love me and all BUT…what do you want? Why did you call?”

“WOW. No ‘I miss you’ or ‘how’s life’ or even ‘when am I going to see you’. I’m hurt Mone…just hurt.” Whitney is fully lying on her very fluffy and comfortable white carpet.

Her room had a goddess theme. Walls hand painted with facial portraits of Whitney posing as her favorite Greek goddess’ Aphrodite, and Athena. Her walls were a very pale enchanting green, one of the many colors Whitney adores. Her rectangular three dimensional windows allowed the perfect sunlight to help make her white phi mica furniture stand out even more. Whitney saw no use for bulbs since her lights came from each corner of the roof creating a fading effect. Whitney went for bold; her night stand was squarely slanted, with a cut out in the middle, where the drawer was located. Her Chester drawer was the carbon copy only larger. She also had a walk in closet that led to the master bathroom she shared with Gwen. Even though the two floor condo had three bathrooms and four bedrooms they were both too lazy to go all the way downstairs where the other bathrooms were. Her canopy bed had silk drapes on all four poles, and Whitney loved the fact she had the option of closure but choose not to because she loved how freely the greenish fabrics moved with the right about of wind touching it.

Simone just glanced at her phone giving it ‘THE FACE’ as if her baby sis could see it. “Did you sing that lovely song of bullshit to me? I think not.”
“Alright fine, there’s this guy…”

“I KNEW IT” Simone sat up. “Ok. What did the guy do? Is he your boyfriend? Did he cheat on you…so HELP me or should I say HIM, I’m on the first flight there to beat some ass…”

“You done? I mean is it ok for me to speak now…its not even like that. I tutor him…”

“He’s dumb? NEXT”

“Simone…”

“Alright fine, you left yourself open for that but I’ll be good now.”

“Yeah as I was saying before you rudely interrupted me, I tutor him; have been for about two months now and I think I love him.”

“Whoa…wuv him, luv him or looooooooooooooooove him?” Whitney shook her head and went on her waterbed.

“You’re stupid.”

“This isn’t like when…”

“No its worse, but worse in a good way, at least I hope so, I don’t know.” Kicking her feet up and down like she was throwing a tantrum.

“Take a deep breath, well sweetie I don’t really see the problem. Just let the chips fall as they may. Oh crap he’s taken isn’t he?”

“Well…”

“Whitney! I cannot condone or support such irresponsible choices, I’m disappointed in you young lady.” Simone slapped her mouth.

“Yeah…that’s right you just stepped into the role of Eve Johnson, so slowly pick up your jaw because you said you’d NEVER do that.”

“Oh shut up, I’m a mother now, it comes with the territory, and I said that when I was young and dumb.”

“Exactly, now you’re not as young and still dumb. Delve in that, sounds like a personal issue.”

“Oh shut up, so explain your ‘well’ crap.”

“He’s not taken per say.”

“So what’s seems to be the problem?”

“He’s single, but he’s got a thing for Gwen…”

“YOUR Gwen, as in Gwen Hotchkiss Gwen? Wait a second isn’t she still hung up over Ethan Harrison Crane or something?”

“Would you stop cutting...Crane? As in Crane Industries Crane? She was involved with him?”

“OMG do you live under a rock? Yes! They were not only involved they were childhood sweethearts and he’s also her former fiancée…now he’s…”

“Don’t tell me anymore because I want her to tell me. Yes she’s still hung up on him but Dylan Banning is determined…”

“WHOA the heir to Séduire…like the sexiest clothing line EVER, Dylan Banning?”

“What happened to him being dumb?”

“I told you never to dumb down, this is dumbing up. This is a different story. Score and a half for you.”

“Whatever, like I said Dylan wants her, I want him and this is starting to jeopardize my friendship with Gwen I’m starting not to like her, well I’m very envious.”

“Aww don’t worry, you’ll still have Theresa.”

“Come on be serious dork.”

“Fine, then tell Gwen how you feel about Dylan.”

“I can’t do that…”

“OK then fight for Dylan.”

“I can’t do that either…”

Simone took a deep breath and started choking the phone imaging it was Whit’s throat. “Alright sparkie, show him what he’s missing.”

“I can’t…wow that might actually work. Thanks you’re the best.”

“I know…let me go and try utilizing these two hours this child just blessed me with, she just cried herself to sleep.”

“PLEASE tell me you’re joking? You did not just let my Gracie cry herself to sleep. That is just wrong, Simone..”

“You are more than welcome to hop your black ass on a plane and come save her…yeah I didn’t think so, let me go, talk to you later, love you.”

“Yeah love you too, kiss everyone for me. Bye.” Whitney placed the phone on her charger.

“Everything ok?” Gwen knocked with a tray of two glasses of milk and slightly warmed oatmeal cookies. “Oops I forgot you don’t want food in here…”

“No its fine, come on in lets sit on the floor. Yeah I’m fine why?”

“Because you disappeared for over two hours.” Gwen took a sip of her milk and Whitney looked at her clock and sure enough it was 4:45 pm.

“Wow I had no idea, guess I just lost track of the time, I called back home, I was talking to my sister. Sorry I missed your dinner.” Burping after she gulped down her milk.

“Pig. Its ok I basically ruined my poor attempt at lasagna. Dylan was so sweet he just laughed it off with me. He had to go, he told me to tell you bye. He totally doesn’t fit the typical jock profile. Such a gentleman, unlike…”

“Ethan Crane…” Whitney regretted saying that as soon as it left her mouth, she cursed under her breath.

“How do you know?” Gwen finished the last of her milk, both only eating half a cookie, Whitney went in her mini fridge under her bed and grabbed two Evian waters.

“I wasn’t prying. Honest; my sister told me you two were together or getting back together, I can’t really remember.” Whitney started fiddling with her bottle. Eventually taking a few sips.

“Isn’t your sister married to Noah Bennett, who works and owns stocks for CI?” Whitney nodded ‘yes’. “Then her husband has or had contact with both Ethan and Nicholas. So she would know that’s not true. I mean she should…no he’s now engaged to the bitch that stole my life, Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald.”

Whitney nearly choked, quickly spitting out her water. “OMG are you ok?” Gwen started smacking Whitney’s back. “Did you just say Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald?”
~*~
“Bennett you have visitors.” “Vistors?” Echoing the man, who guided him to the lobby where his two boys sat, the same boys while growing up thought Sam Bennett was their everything, person on the planet, both Noah and Jack loved the dirt he walked on. Now they hate him…more than that, they pity him. The man responsible for the Bennett’s losing the heart and soul of this family.

“So how are my boys doing?” Jack formed a fist.

“That’s it I’m outta here…” Noah grabbed his brother’s arm and stopped him from leaving.

“Sit down, we agreed to come here to find out what he wants remember, the faster we find out the faster we leave. FYI never call my house again, my daughter’s talking and I don’t want her to accidentally picking up the phone and hearing your voice. I want her to have no recollection of you whatsoever.”

“Can we get the ball rolling on this charade?” Jack put his legs on the table, trying his best to get comfortable, how comfortable can he get visiting a father he considered dead? The Correction Officer came and slapped Jack’s feet to the ground.

“HEY I didn’t break any damn laws!” C.O. about faced. “Want to repeat that young man?” C.O. was tapping at his nightstick. “No he doesn’t have a nice day sir.” Noah added.

“DO you want your son to die? If that’s a no hurry up and tell us what you couldn’t say over the phone or in a damn letter.”

“I’m getting out soon.” Sam said with excitement.

“How…you know what I don’t even want to know. I’m outta here.” “Henry WAIT.” Sam yelled causing Jack to come to a complete stop.

“You have the NERVE to call me by my middle name? How dare you? I could kill you with my bare hands.” “Easy…” Noah stood in front of Jack creating a shield with his body.

“Mr. Bennett you have a phone call…its Mr. Crane.” A female C.O. came and told him. “Great I’ll make one thing and leave….oh Sam when you come out, act like you don’t know where to find Jack and I….in fact pretend we’re dead because you’re certainly dead to us.
~*~
“What are you doing?” “Who me? Just calling my right hand man to tell him I’m not coming to work today.” Fox was sitting in the kitchen at the table, with is feet on the chair next to him. As he knit picked at his cherries. Paloma slapped his legs from the chair, sat down, grabbed the phone from Fox’s ear and sat down.

“What the heck did you do that for?” Fox snatched the phone back from Paloma.

“There will be no pining after Gwendolyn Hotchkiss…you had enough time for that.”

“Paloma…”

“No I’m not done; you said part of the reason why I’m such a good friend is because I tell you the brutal truth.”

“Paloma…”

“Did I not jus say I’m not done? Chew on this.” She stuffed a green apple in his mouth. “Well I sat around hoping, and PRAYING you’d wake up and realize that Gwen just missed the boat with you. She doesn’t even realize what an amazing man you are. And I also told you not to worry. Your soul mate is out there…you haven’t meet her yet. Yes the Crane DNA is swimming inside but to pick up the Crane lifestyle Fox? You’re better than that too…and as for Jade, won’t even comment. She just speaks for herself. I hope you just see what I already see someday.” Fox took a bite of the apple, letting it fall.

“You’re right…”

“I’m sorry I’m what!?!?” Grabbing her ear, and pretending something caught inside. “Say who? May I please have that in writing?”

“Haha, I know how to admit when someone other than me is right. It’s just, it’s not my fault that 99.99% of the time I just happen to be that someone.” Picking up the apple, dusting it off on his shoulder he took another bite and winked his eye at Paloma.

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAND there’s Fox Crane.” She messed up his hair then snuffed him. Outsiders looking in would automatically assume that Fox and Paloma were some hot and heavy item, they were that inseparable. The only relationship they had was platonic, a brother-sister bond that was so strong, sometimes they even thought they were closer to each other than their siblings. Plain and simple, Fox and Paloma were just each other’s rocks and constant reminders that it will be ok.

“Why touch the hair?”

“Because I know it irks you and that gives me great pleasure.” Paloma got up and went to the fridge. “So why did you call Noah if it wasn’t to free your schedule to mourn a very alive Gwen Hotchkiss?”

“I planned a full day for us.” “Uh uh I don’t do surprises you know that…” Fox flashed his million dollar smile. “Precisely…”

“Nicky! Oh there you are…oh its you.” “It’s always a pleasure seeing you Jade.” Paloma batted her eyes. “Later Fox, we’ll just reschedule that *fun* day you have planned.” “NO, you stay…you come with me.” Fox grabbed Jade before she could answer. They went to the library.

“Just the way…” “STOPIT, I didn’t bring you here for that, listen to me and listen good, you’re never to talk to Paloma or any of my friends like that ever again do you understand me?”

“I love it when…” “I see its going to be one of those days…look we had a few laughs and some fun nights but that was it. You and I both know this was never going to the next level far less be considered serious. The faster you realize that the better off you’ll be. I have to go. See yourself out.” Fox got as far as the door knob to the library.

“I can’t believe you just treated me the same way my sister treated you. Something you vowed you’d never do. You hypocrite.” Fox had no problem hearing Gwen’s name, or so he thought but when he heard it from the lips that knew her the best, it felt like fire…burning away his heart as he watched helplessly not able to do anything. Fox slowly turned around.

“Gwen and I are nothing like you and me. I love…loved her. We were friends first, and I never slept with her…” “Now you never will after getting her sister in the sack.” Jade finished. Hit Fox where it hurts…two can play that game.

“You were just a warm body that was lucky enough to last longer than three nights in my bed.” Seeing red, Jade with all her might formed a fist, swinging forcefully with her tiny frame, praying she left a lasting impression on his pretty boy face and image. Fox immediately fell to the ground. Jade bent down and whispered. “And you were just blessed with my right hook. Congratulations wear it proudly.”

:heart: :heart: **BIG SHOUT OUT to TRIPPIE Ang for all her help!!**



WARNING: Its long, wasn't very sure about it until Ang read and loved it. Gives me a sigh of relief. Hope the rest of you enjoy. Feedback is greatly appreciated :)


~2~
Godsend…


“¿Paloma usted aquí? Regreso. ..I tiene una sorpresa…” Pilar stopped dead in her tracks as soon as she saw boxes leaning flatly against her walls in the foyer. “What’s this?” Pilar sees a letter in what seems like her youngest daughter’s handwriting.


“Pilar…” Seeing her name so formally gave Pilar all the proof she needed. In this case, absence didn’t make the heart grow fonder…


“…you asked me for a second chance after ripping out my heart and just when I was getting use to the idea of forgiveness you up and leave. To go God knows where for as long as you did. Well I hate you I hate you as much as I did that day, in fact I hate you more.” Catching the single tear that got away, Pilar tried to grab hold of herself. She walked over to the recliner in her the living room and slowly sat down.


“The pretentious letter you sent finally telling me where you were after six months was a weak touch, too little too late. And I really don’t give a damn about this so called surprise you have. You can just keep it. I’m moving out. But have no fear maybe you’ll be lucky enough to know my whereabouts in six months with a pretentious letter. So long and don’t take care.”


“What have I done to my girls?” Holding her head Pilar pondered to herself.


“Ethan stop playing we gotta get Loma’s stuff packed…” Theresa stopped mid sentence, standing in the doorway dividing the kitchen and living room. Frozen. Pilar sat the letter down on the coffee table and walked to her daughter. She tried to make eye contact but something caught Theresa’s attention. Pilar traced Theresa’s eyes. “Who’s that?” The only words Theresa could muster up.


“Oh she’s my surprise.” Pilar gave her the biggest reassuring smile, as she signaled her to come over.


“This seems like a family matter…”


“You are family…mine we’re engaged.” Theresa said, cutting Ethan off.


“ENGAGED? But what about Gwen…?” Pilar asked suddenly.


“Of course Gwen’s the one you study…well scre…”


“Theresa watch it” Ethan added, warning Theresa. Theresa took a deep breath and continued.


“Well you still didn’t answer my question…who’s she?”


“This is Cali…go on say hi sweetheart.” Pilar coached her but Theresa’s cold tone stare scared the little three year old. Cali simply buried her head behind Pilar’s thigh and snuggled at her teddy a little tighter.


“Theresita you scared her…” Pilar turned around and picked Calista up.


“Right…because I’m the big bad guy…”


“Ease up T” Ethan whispered, as he rubbed her shoulders. Theresa was not having that. She slapped his hand down.


“To hell…”


“ARRABBIATO!” Cali shouted angrily in Italian, her native tongue and pointed to Theresa finally making eye contact as she gave her the biggest smile that totally melted Theresa’s heart. Theresa couldn’t help but return her smile.


“Bella!” Theresa laughed, she walked over to Cali and bent down.


“I’m sorry…I was a little mean. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?” Theresa asked Cali. To show all is well, Cali stretched out her arms as Theresa took her.


“Guess you got your answer Resa.” Added Ethan, as he and Theresa laughed at Cali’s cute giggles. Cali was playing with Theresa’s hair.


“Bella!” “So that’s my new name?” Theresa tickled Cali as she giggled and nodded in agreement.


“Beautiful…it fits.” Ethan agreed.


“I take it that’s Italian…when did you have the chance to learn it?”


“I’m a Crane remember…”


“How can I forget.” Theresa pecked him on the lips.


Cali smacked her eyes. “YUCK!” Theresa and Ethan laughed.


“Oh so you speak English huh?” Theresa asked her as Ethan tickled her. Pilar knew Cali was the answer to her prayers; the glue that would fix the very broken Lopez-Fitzgerald clan.


“Here are the final papers for the adoption…”


“Adoption? Theresa’s smile suddenly faded. To top that the person that consumed her sight made her blood boil.


“I told you to wait in the car since you were persistent in staying.” Pilar repeated.


“Do me a favor and take Cali in the kitchen please…” Theresa said to Ethan.


“Vaya por favor con él.” Pilar pleaded, cutting Theresa off.


“No I want answers.” Ethan knows better then to make the colossal mistake in putting his two cents in, so he did what he was told and took Cali from Theresa as she went willing. The two headed for the kitchen.


“So mama why do you need adoption papers?” Theresa made direct eye contact with only her mother.


“It’s the finalized step in making Calista Giselle a Lopez-Fitzgerald…”


“I wasn’t talking to you. Can you please leave.”


“Theresita he’s the reason why everything went so smoothly with adopting Calista.” Added Pilar


“Gosh Mama why would you think this is the solution to our problems!?!?” Theresa rubbed her temples in total utter frustration and continued.


“If you were lonely adopt a damn dog and why did you go to Jonathan Hotchkiss of all people for help?!? He destroyed this family...”


“That’s not fair…” Pilar cut in.


“You’re right your lies did. I’m outta here…”


“What about your little sister. She needs good role models, like you and Paloma to look up too…”


“Because she certainly wouldn’t get it from you. Paloma…does she even know about all of this?”


~*~


Jade came storming down the hallway, her prophetical vision caught Paloma. “So he tells you to jump and you say how high?” Jade scolded.


Paloma was sitting up with her legs stretched out on the bench in the kitchen by the windowsill. Paloma got up and walked to the marble surface island where she sat her banana-kiwi juice down. “You know make-up is suppose to be warm on the eyes…the whole gothic look just doesn’t cut it even if you have the pale skin down packed.” She smirked.


“SHUT THE HELL UP!” Jade shouted.


“What’s the matter? The infamous Crane-Hotchkiss nuptials were postponed two weeks from never?” Paloma chucked taking a sip of her juice.


“I ended things with Fox.” Jade defended.


“Ok hun…” Paloma took a glass from the bar above the island and poured some juice for Jade.


“What are you doing?” Jade asked, hesitantly taking the glass and sipping it.


“Oh I figured the least I can do was pour your tall official glass of shut the f*ck up juice.”


Paloma grinned as Jade choked, causing Paloma to laugh hysterically. Her laughter added to the already mixed emotions Jade was feeling. “HEEEEHUH” Gasped Paloma as she started wiping her chest.


“That’s the thanks I get…I’m hurt. Watch me cry now Jade…boo hoo.”


“I hope you and Fox burn in hell.” Jade stormed off.


“Oh come on Jade the juice wasn’t that bad!” Paloma gulped down the rest of her juice.


“Now where’s that fool…?”


“That chick has one serious left hook.” Fox thought out loud, lightly tapping his eye. Fox not only felt enormous pain but felt a bump forming.


“Bet you deserved it too.” Paloma added, walking right into the library and sat right next to Fox on the floor.


“You’re the one that told me to stop acting like a little bitch.” Fox defended, snatching the icepack from Paloma’s hand.


“No…”


“Why do you have a towel on your head?” Fox asked, cutting Paloma off.


“Oh…” Paloma forgot she had it on her head as she took it off.


“That would be courtesy of your ex psycho bedmate.”


“I see…”


“Yup she just snapped. Just because I told her about herself. I mean talk about going to the extreme…”


“That’s horrible.... we should go to the police station right away so you can press charges. Come on I’ll go get the car. Crazies like that need to be locked up.”


Paloma slapped his hand. “Ass. So why did you get that black eye…”


“Its BLACK!?!?” Fox immediately cleared the silver tray located on the coffee table and used it as a mirror.


“Relax Reject Fabio…it’s not black…not yet. Keep that pack on your eye.” She assisted him on where the pack should really go.


“Geesh talk about being vein…”


“Yeah that’s right. This is my fortune.” Fox showcased his face as if it were a priceless work of art.


“Ugh” Paloma grabbed the icepack and snuffed Fox with it.


“So on a scale of 1 to 3…”


“Three Loma!?!? Couldn’t give her a ten heck not even a five…”


“No damnit it’s Jade! So how bad?”


“Pretty bad I told her she was blessed to be in my bed or something like that…”


“And all she did was punch you?”


Fox started searching through papers on the coffee table. “What are you doing?”


He scratched his head and glanced at Paloma. “I’m looking for the papers…”


“What papers?”


“The one’s you clearly signed making you Jade Hotchkiss’ new champion…I know they’re here somewhere.”


Paloma rolled her eyes. “I still hate her but you crossed the line. That was disrespectful as a woman and I can totally understand why she punched you.” Paloma cringed at the thought of understanding anything Jade.


~*~


“That’s it…”


“Hear your mother out.” Jonathan cut in Theresa and Pilar’s agrument. Theresa shot Jonathan a dirty look.


“You’re right I thought Calista would somehow magically fix everything, allowing me to easily reconnect with you and your sister.” Pilar attempted to caress Theresa’s cheek but she immediately moved.


“So you think it’s fair to use a three year old. Brilliant mama…”


“No, Calista is a Godsend. And Jonathan did this…”


“Because he’s a guilty bastard that thought flashing money would somehow erase killing my dad.” Theresa refused to let Jonathan see her shed a tear.


“Mija that’s not what…”


“…happened I know it really doesn’t matter does it, the outcome is the same.” Theresa completed her mother’s thought.

~*~

“Stop my head…” Whitney covered her ears. She and Gwen decided to stay up late and talk, paint their toe nails, do facials and anything else that popped in their pretty little heads. They were both in their favorite PJ’s. The girls were in matching slippers and oversized tees, Whitney in everything Big Bird and Gwen in everything Elmo.

“Where did I lose you?” Oh how much I hate Theresa…”

“No that was spelled out, perfectly defined, excellently acted out and whatever else you did brilliantly starring the hate fest of Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald.” Whitney started playing with her chopsticks. They ordered two of everything from their favorite Japanese take out spot. At the time they thought it was genius to have that many rolls of Sushi. Perhaps their eyes were bigger then their bellies.

“Well if you’re not going to eat that I will.” Gwen popped two pieces of sushi in her mouth.

“Oink oink piglet. Take it easy, I know you’re not that hungry…”

“You’re right. Well I’m beat…”

“UH huh. You don’t get away that easy. Now I sat here and heard your declaration of hate, and I know there’s more to all this anger. But I don’t wanna push you so…”

“Ok I’ll tell you everything.”

~*~

“Hey you asleep?” Jack asked an obvious sleeping Simone. She was laying on the sofa in the living room and she was hugging the baby monitor in case Domi woke up.

“I’m bored.”

“Mmmm…of course you’re bored you jobless bum.” She replied in a hoarse voice with her eyes still closed.

“Oh you’re up.”

“Yeah I wasn’t sleeping…I snore to sound cute.”

“Oh to spice things up between you and my brother…”


“Exactly you jackass…ISIS!”

“What are you calling her for?”

“I think its time I teach her to bite on command.” Simone replied, rubbing her eyes and lazily sitting up.

“What did you expect me to do?”

“Gee I don’t know…find a job, find a job…oh yeah then there’s find a damn job.” She said stretching the last of her sleepy out.

“We went and saw Sam…”

“Aaah I see, so which one of you snapped at your father? Hold that thought let me go check on Domi…”

“I am changing our last name.” Noah blurted, cutting off his wife. He barged into the living room as if his life depended on it.

“Unless you’re about to deal with a witness protection type case…” Simone got up and walked over to her husband.

“Then it’s not happening. And why aren’t you at work? I just finished telling your brother he needs to be certified for his bumhoodship. What are you trying to make it a Bennett Tradition?” Noah knew better than to join his brother in laughter because his wife was cranky. Not just any cranky the ‘beat a bitch just cause’ cranky, which only meant Jack was dumb enough to disturb his wife’s slumber. Poor Jack…

“I’ll go check on Domi, why don’t you go lay down ok sweetheart.” Noah kissed Simone on the forehead.

“Whatcha tryin’ to say…I look like crap?” shouted Simone as she watched her husband ascend the stairs.

“Yeah” Jack snuck up behind Simone and tapped her shoulders. “In fact you look worse.” Simone glared at Jack then elbowed him in the stomach.

“Sawee daddy…teach mommy lesson. Hehe” Domi looked at her dad from the closet. Her poor father was spinning around like a dog chasing its tail and Domi had her hand over her mouth to prevent herself from laughing.

Noah immediately went downstairs. “She’s gone…”

“What do you mean she’s gone?” asked Simone.

“She’s not in her crib…” Simone took a deep breath.

“Move.” Simone headed upstairs and Domi heard her.

“Uh oh, mommy’s marter…time to muv.” Domi ran from the closet and behind the door. She waited until her mother checked the closet then ran out the room and to the back stair case. Noah and Jack went upstairs and into Domi’s room just missing the little tike.


“See I told you she’s not in here…”


“Chill bro she’s probably just hiding from you guys.” Jack added, cutting off his brother.


“Yeah Jack’s right…”


“I am?” Jack interrupted Simone, shocked she agreed.


“Yeah, she’s just trying to work my nerves. Now help me look for her.”


“Haha suckers…” Domi said, running into the kitchen.


“No…go way icy.” Domi waved Isis away because she knew Isis wanted to play catch and Domi was on a mission.

“How bout a deal. I go out der” Domi pointed to the door.

“And you go shush” Isis gave Domi a confused look, causing Domi to shake her head.

“K how bout dis?” Domi walked to the fridge and gave Isis the steak. “Good dog…quiet dog.” Domi patted Isis then crawled to the backyard through Isis’ entrance.


~*~


“Paloma you gotta…” Ethan walked into the library with Calista in his arms.


“Hey Ethan…who’s the cutie pie…?” Paloma asked. Ethan glanced at Paloma, nodded at his brother, and then looked at a sleeping Calista resting her head on his chest.


“Uh…a little girl named Calista. You have to come back to your house with me.” Ethan urged.


“Why what’s going on?” Paloma got up and walked over to Ethan.


“Um…just come back with me to your house…your sister and mom are there…”


“Oh no are they fighting?” Cut in a concerned Paloma.


“Yeah and Jonathan…”


“That bastard is in my house? When will he get you can’t buy love…I don’t care if he’s…”



~continued~

~*~


“YOUR FATHER…you and Theresa have the same father… like biologically!?!” Whitney had her hand to her mouth; she got up and walked to the balcony.


“Yes, isn’t it out of this world?”


“It’s something alright…” Whitney mumbled.


“Yeah her and Paloma…”


“WHOA Loma’s your sister too…no wonder…” Whitney said, immediately turning around and facing Gwen as she cut her off.


“UGH! Gwennie where are you…?”


“Jade…?” Gwen said, staring at the door.


“As in your sister Jade?” Whitney asked, mimicking Gwen. Gwen walked out the first floor den and followed the direction of Jade’s voice, Whitney soon followed.


“Hey sis I took the Concord…I just had to see my favorite person in the world.” Gwen was just at a lost of words. She hasn’t seen her sister in two years and in that time, her and Jade seldom spoke.


“Awww you’re so happy to see me that you’re at a lost of words…!” Jade said as she ran into her big sis’ arms.


“I’m something alright…” Gwen mumbled still trying to grasp the fact her sister was standing in her foyer as if a rainbow forms everyday in the sky.


Gwen and Jade broke their embrace and Jade finally made eye contact with Whitney. “Who’s she? The maid…”


“Maid? You better know your role…”


“Hey…” Whitney was about to walk to Jade but Gwen stopped her.


“Know my role! Do you KNOW you’re talking to!?!? Jade HOTCHKISS. Need me to spell it out…?”


“Stop it Jade!” Gwen reprimanded.


“ME! She started first with the threats!” Jade whined, pouting.


“Oh please I wouldn’t waste my time threatening you. TRUST.” Whitney cracked her knuckles, scaring Jade, although she’d never admit that.


“So why are you here Jade?” asked Gwen.


“I have to have a reason to visit my mentor/favorite sister?”


“DEFINITELY…so what did you do now?”


“I think you guys need alone time…”


“But we’re not done.” Gwen cut in on Whitney.


“I know…but you should catch up with your sister. Besides you’re always saying how much you want to anyway so now is your chance…”


“Well would you look at that, my sister never mentioned you to me, yet you know ALL about me. Just shows you how important you are.”


“JADE DAMNIT!”


“No its fine Gwen.” Whitney patted Gwen on the arm.


“Yeah perhaps but this really shows how ‘close’ you are with your favorite sister right? Excuse me.” Whitney walked right in between Gwen and Jade to walk to the sliding doors exiting the den. She could have easily went around the sofa but choose not to. Wonder why…?


Whitney slightly closed the doors. “Oh Jade…”


Jade turned around and made eye contact with Whitney, like an obedient student to a teacher. “Gwen didn’t tell me THAT much too much about you…I mean you’re not THAT important.” She smirked then finally left, going up the spiral stairs leading to her bedroom.


“You’re just gonna let her talk to me like that?” Gwen went back into the den. She bent down on the coffee table to collect the empty sushi trays, still not acknowledging her sister. She started walking towards the kitchen.


“Um hello…” Jade started following her.


“You deserved every single word Whitney told you…and if I were her I would have smacked you.” Gwen finally went through the swinging doors leading to the kitchen. Jade rolled her eyes and continued following her sister.


“Alright fine I was wrong…I was sort of a bitch.” Gwen stopped dead in her tracks. She turned around and staring at her sister. She folded her arms while arching her right eyebrow waiting for that thought to finish.


“Ok…a mega bitch happy? I am going to apologize…”


“Omigosh…apologizes…admissions of being WRONG…what or should I say who has you in this funk?” Jade wasn’t even going to try lying at her sister, Gwen would see right through it anyway.


“Fox Crane…”


“Oh Jay…I told you not to go after him. You knew what he felt for me. I always tried to instill in you that…”


“Hotchkiss women aren’t sloppy seconds’ blah.” Jade finished as if mocking her sister, propping on the island.


“I’m tired of that damn song…because it’s a lie.” Jade continued, walking towards the kitchen table.


Gwen turned around and eventually sat across from her. “Oh yeah how so?”


“Like you don’t know…but I’ll play along. Mother pines for father who pines for Peepeelar…”


“Hey Pilar is wonderful, don’t hate.” Gwen interrupted.


“Don’t hate? Wow. Anyway, father acts like we don’t even exist like we’re not even his family. I sadly pine after Fox who’s still hung up on you, which he made abundantly clear…”


“Oh no…what did he say?” Gwen caressed Jade’s arm, which she jerked away. Jade tries very hard to be mad at her sister but always comes up short.


“It doesn’t matter…” she shrugged. “…and you my lovely sister, you pine after Ethan…”


“I do not pine after him.” Gwen defended.


“Whatever. Anyway he’s now love sick for that thing…she’s so….and just…UGH. I hate that bitch for what she’s done to you.”


~*~


“Theresa just let me…”


“Let you what exactly? Pick up where you just ‘left off’? Umm… you can’t do that because you were never here in the first place. You think you’re just gonna sweep in here and play daddy of the year. Mainly to impress my mother, I don’t think so. Go be a father to the brats you abandoned.” Theresa finished, snapping at Jonathan and cutting him off.


“No more!” Domi came running in the living room with her hands to her ears. The front door was wide open. Pilar’s house was about four houses down from Simone and Noah’s house. Domi crawled through all the backyards until she reached Pilar’s house.


“Quiet time…evreboddie go shush. Tee P!!” Domi ran into Pilar’s hands as she hugged her.


“Hello sweetheart how are you?” Pilar asked.


“Sponge Bob!! Accuse me Tee P.” Domi wiggled her way out of Pilar’s hands and sat on the sofa, turning to the cartoon network.


Pilar and Theresa exchanged glares and Theresa sat next to Domi. “Sweetheart where are your parents?”


“Oh hi re re, daddy go around like doggie. Hehe and time to show mommy. Gimmie food puweese.” Domi finished, shooing Theresa into the kitchen. Theresa picked Domi up, who was fighting her grip.


“No, bring food, sponge bob.” Domi pointed to the TV.


“You forgot who you’re talking to huh?” Theresa started tickling her. “Nooooo!”


“Hey…”


“What are you doing here?” asked Theresa, cutting her sister off. She walked into the kitchen and put Domi in the chair booster.


“Well after Ethan came to the mansion…”


“Wait you just left Cali…?” She asked looking directly at Ethan. “…where is Cali?” continued Theresa, once again cutting her sister off. She realized after not seeing Cali in both Paloma and Ethan’s arms she began to worry.


“Oh she’s coming…”


“The tiniest big mouth I’ve ever seen.” Said Fox, he was holding Cali and just walked into the back door.


“Yeah it’s cut off Paloma day…” mumbled Paloma, making Ethan laugh.


“But you’re so cute it doesn’t really matter now does it?” Fox looked at Cali, and she just giggled. She took an immediate liking to Fox.


“Ethan why did you think bringing my sister here was necessary?”


“Um because that…” Paloma stopped mid sentence, answering for Ethan but more importantly, realizing there’s children present.


She took a deep breath “Because I thought you needed help with Jonathan. I know how pushy and relentless he can be.” Finished Paloma and she was gritting her teeth.


“I can handle him…”


“Helwoa…I miss Spongebob! Where my food?” Domi waved her hand and pouted.


“SPONGEBOB!” Cali shouted, trying to wiggle her way out of Fox’s hand.


“Hey not so fast kiddo…”


“Give me her.” Paloma said, taking Cali from Fox.


“Ok Theresa so try to breakdown how this cutie pie is our new sister? On second thought Ethan and Fox should take them in the living room…”


“No, I don’t want them around him.” Ethan knew not to say anything especially around two flaring tempers that were women…sister women at that. Yeah he definitely knew better. Fox however, didn’t…


“Can you tell me the date I became your little…”


“Fox!” Ethan cut in, giving his little brother a look that read, ‘not a good idea’. So Fox obliged and left his thought incomplete, mainly because of the tots.


“We’ll stay here, and feed the girls so you guys can step outside and talk.” Ethan completed. Fox sat Cali in the seat next to Domi.


“I want big girl chair!” Domi demanded she saw Cali was in one and thought why she shouldn’t be in one.


“Wow is she always like that?” asked Ethan.


“Yeah that sounds about right…from all the stories Noah told me.” Fox said as he picked Domi up, while Ethan removed the booster.


“Tank u.” Domi beamed.


“Ok food time.” Domi pointed both Fox and Ethan to the fridge and Cali giggled.


“Fine princesses…” replied Ethan.


“Ok what the heck do you feed a child?” whispered Fox, Ethan shrugged.


“Soe…who do u like the bestest?” asked Domi, propping her head.


“I likes Sandy…the marter friend of Sponge Bob.” Cali replied grinning.


Ethan warmed up canned spaghetti and placed it in bowls and placed the bowls in front of the girls. “Yeah Sandy’s way cooler than Patrick.” Ethan added, sitting down next to Domi on the circular kitchen table.


“Tank u” the girls said in unison.


“Yeah tobally uncle E. I likes spongebob cuz he has a lassie.” replied Domi. Fox sat on the remaining chair and gave the girls apple juice in sippie cups as the girls smiled at Fox.


“Its totally squirt.” Fox corrected Dominique. “And what is a lassie?” asked Fox.


“So she gets English huh?” Fox pinched Calista’s cheek, making her laugh.


“Gotta like dat. U don’t.” Domi finished, doing the cabbage patch…her version anyway.


“You know what a lassie is Uncle Fox, a person that acts like a doggie!” Domi took a spoonful but missed her mouth.


“Its ‘I got it like that’ genius and you mean lacky.” Fox stuck his tongue out.


“Egg head!” Domi retaliated, frowning.


“You guys are such babies…”


“Uh huh!” Cali agreed, shaking her head up and down and cutting Ethan off. Cali pushed her empty plate in front of Ethan. “More.”


~*~


“HELLO…”


“Hey Mone what’s wrong?” asked Whitney hearing the panic in her sister’s voice.


“We’re gonna check the remainder of the house…don’t worry we’ll find her.” Jack assured Simone as he and Noah split up. Whitney heard Jack’s voice.


“What’s going on?”


“You’re precious Gracie took hiding-go-seek to a whole new god damn level.” Replied Simone as she headed for her bedroom one last time.


“See I’d laugh but you sound like you’re out for blood…”


“I am. Your nieces for that matter. Girl you better PRAY I don’t find her before Noah and Jackson.”


“Mone…”


“Don’t you Mone me, she has NO business scaring me like this, it’s not cute or funny.”


“We did it to mom all the time when we were little. And if memory serves me correctly you were the ring leader.”


“So what? That’s different…”


“Why cause Karma’s a bitch? Suck it up and embrace it, you have many more moments like this to come.” Whitney finished, cutting her sister off.


“Oh gee you made me feel SO much better thanks sister dearest. Oh how I love these little expensive pick me up calls.” Simone replied in a sarcastic tone.


“What you are you complaining about? I called you. Don’t worry your five cents will stay safely tucked.” Whitney teased.


“Haha…NOT.” Replied Simone, sticking her tongue out at the phone like Whitney could see it.


“Oh and you better not be plotting…”


“Plotting what?” Ended Simone, cutting her sister off, she realized what Whitney was talking about.


“Oh I’m definitely plotting her long overdue beat down.”


“Mone…” Whitney whined.


“No I should have never agreed to you and mom’s stupid demand of not hitting her until she’s five. FIVE that’s three YEARS away damnit, if I can’t beat her ass she’ll give me gray hair. THEN I’ll be forced to kill her and she’s just too cute to die.”


Whitney shook her head. “You’re retarded.”


“Yeah whatever wait until your turn. And IF you sing this praise of bullshit then you can tell me all the ‘I told you so’ your little heart desires.” Simone replied. Hearing that made Whitney drift off and she immediately stared at the jewelry box on her vanity; subconsciously, she picked it up and took out her star necklace locket. She started tracing her hands on the detail.


“U WHO earth to Whitney!!!!!” Simone screamed, she realized her sister wasn’t paying attention to her when she started bitching about Jack and didn’t hear Whitney’s habit of coming to his defense.


“Huh? Oh I’m sorry. You were saying?” asked Whitney.


“That can wait. Where were you just now?”


“It doesn’t really matter…”


“Yes it does. Now tell me don’t make me come there woman.” Simone warned.


“Fine. I was thinking about around the time I left Harmony…back when I was so determined to forget it was home.” Whitney replied. She knew her sister wouldn’t let up but wasn’t ready to open old wounds that weren’t fully healed and she can’t lie to her big sister so she told her parts… to Whitney, that’s a vast improvement. She’s really trying at this ‘baby steps’ theory.


“I’m coming home for the weekend.” Whitney blurted, she was desperate to change the subject.


“Why?” asked a shocked Simone.


“Yeah…I can’t wait to see you either.” Replied Whitney.


“That’s not what I meant, I mean classes end in a month why not wait then to come for the summer?” Wondered Simone.


“It’s actually three weeks and I’m not sure if I want to spend my summer in Harmony. I guess I just need a little break, with classes and the Gwen/Dylan drama I should take a break. Plus Jade came here…”


“Oh lord, what did that human leech do now?” asked Simone, cutting off her sister, unintentionally but she knows what Jade is capable of. Simone hears enough from Paloma.


Whitney laughed. “She’s really not that bad, she looks like she has problems so I hope her sister helps her. Anyway let me finish packing see you in a bit.”


“Ok see ya.” Simone replied. Whitney hung up and put the phone on the charger.


“You’re going back home?” asked Gwen, hearing the end of Whitney’s conversation.


“I’m sorry I didn’t mean to listen to your conversation. Don’t worry I only heard the end.” Assured Gwen, and she made Whitney feel very relieved.


“It’s fine, yeah only for the weekend, figure I could go check out my family that way you have more time to bond with your sister…not worry about dividing your time...”


“How do you do it?” asked Gwen, cutting off her friend.


“Do what?” asked a clueless Whitney, as she continued to pack.


“How can you be so nice in regards to my sister after she was so rude to you?” Gwen walked over to Whitney’s bed and helped her pack.


“Oh well I wasn’t very nice to her either…”


“Yeah but she started it.”


Whitney smiled. “True but I didn’t have to add to the obvious pain she’s feeling.”


“How did you know?” Wondered an amazed Gwen.


“It’s written all over her face, nothing says pain like a woman scored…”


“Amen sister…” Gwen shook her head back and forth


“Amen sister?” Whitney mimicked her friend, throwing a shirt at Gwen.


“I’m rubbing off on you too much.” Whitney continued, scrunching her nose and squinting.


“Yeah you are!” Gwen threw a pillow at Whitney, being the sports fanatic that Whitney is she caught, a natural instinct, dropping the locket.


“Hey what’s that?” Gwen picked up the locket and almost opened it.


“Oh nothing…” Whitney snatched it from her hand.


“I’m sorry didn’t mean to upset you.” Gwen said, walking towards the door.


“No you didn’t, it’s just from my time in Italy and those weren’t the best memories for me.” Whitney replied, going after Gwen and guiding her back in the room.


“Its fine, and I know you’ll tell me when you’re ready no rush.” Gwen winked at Whitney.


“Hey use my family’s jet, its half the time like the Concord but a little faster.” Gwen offered.


“No I couldn’t…”


“I insist, I’d come with you but considering the circumstances…”


“Yeah totally get it, thanks you’re the best.” Whitney said.


“So I’ve been told.” Gwen smiled. Whitney and Gwen finished packing Whit’s stuff.


~*~


Fox, Ethan, Domi, and Cali were all laughing and conversing with one another as they ate their hot fudge sundaes, well Domi and Cali shared one and Fox and Ethan both had their own.


Jonathan walked into the kitchen. “Where are my daughters?”


“Well you should know where Gwen and Jade are…oh you’re talking about your bait daughters…yeah they’re hiding from you.” Smirked Fox.


“Aren’t you the comedian Nicholas…?”


“Its Fox only my parents call me Nicholas or people I generally respect, and you don’t fall in either category.” Fox finished, cutting Jonathan off.


Paloma and Theresa walked in the kitchen; they were in the patio outside in the backyard. “Thanks Fox but we got it, can you…?”


“Yeah come on ladies lets go see Sponge Bob.” Ethan finished, as if reading Theresa’s mind. He grabbed both their hands and walking them in the living room.


Fox stood, leaning on the counter. “You can go with Ethan…”


“I’m not leaving you guys with this…”


“I’m their father!” Snapped Jonathan cutting off Paloma and Fox’s conversation as they both acted like Jonathan wasn’t standing there.


“No you’re not! You wouldn’t know the meaning of the word if the definition hit you on your head! You’re just a sperm donor. Its really unfortunate I have your DNA running through my veins.” Theresa added.


Fox’s phone rang. “Would you ladies excuse me…?” This was the call Fox was waiting for, he stepped outside in the backyard.


“The Hotchkiss jet just left Airport Express…the destination Harmony, Mass.”


“You sure it was a Hotchkiss jet?” Fox asked, cutting off his PI.


“Yes Mr. Crane I’m positive. Looks like Gwen Hotchkiss is coming home.”


“Excellent work.” Fox hung up. Fox stepped back inside.


“Guys I have to step out for a bit but I’m a phone call away if you need me.” Fox guaranteed.


“No its fine, go handle your business we’ll catch up later.” Paloma replied.


“Ok see ya snot face.” He messed up Paloma’s hair and she punched his arm.


“Later Theresa. Tell the girls I’ll see them later.” He kissed her on the cheek.


“Jonathan it’s always an unfortunate experience seeing you.” He saluted Jonathan. Fox left and went into his car and drove off. “You won’t escape this time Gwen.”

~3~
Facing the music…


“Everything alright Ms. Russell?” asked the stewardess.


Once again, Whitney stared out the window, safely buckled in the chair of her Gwen’s family jet, in deep thought. “Oh I’m sorry I’m fine.”


“Can I get you anything?”



“No…thank you.” She was about to leave until she heard Whitney’s voice.


“How long until we land?”


“About fifteen minutes Ms. Russell.”


“Please call me Whitney.” Whitney smiled as she returned Whitney’s sincerity with a smile. “Well Harmony here I come…” The plane finally arrived at Harmony Airport. Everything was set up for Whitney courtesy of her friend Gwen; Gwen had a limo waiting for Whitney, much to Whitney’s surprise.


“Welcome home Ms. Russell.” Said the limo driver.


“This way to your car…”


“My car? Gwen what did you do…” Whitney mumbled.


“Please let me hold these…” The limo driver grabbed her suitcases and put them in the trunk. He opened the door for Whitney as she got in.


“I’ve waited so long for this…” He grabbed Whitney, as the both fell to the ground of the limo. Whitney was on top and he ran is index finger on the outline of her cheek. He cupped her face and connected their lips, Whitney gasped at his aggression as he pulled her even further into his body. He passionately kissed her like his life depended on it. Whitney taken aback, wanted to know the identity of this mad man…this great kissing mad man. She finally broke their kiss.


“You’re not Gwen…” Fox started a little out of breath, he half opened his eyes seeing the most beautiful black curly long locks he’s ever seen, knowing they’re not the short blond locks he’s been dying to run his hands through.


“Wow and they say men are dumb.” Replied Whitney, cutting him off, and trying very hard not to let him see just how much that kiss got to her. She crawled off him and sat on the circular black leather interior of the six-seater. She waited until Fox sat down then she slapped him.


Fox finally turned the light on to see the obnoxious woman that just worked his nerves. “Who are you? And why did you smack me?” He asked with a demanding tone, expecting an answer.


Whitney rolled her eyes, amazed he was dumb enough to ask such a stupid question, like he didn’t deserve that slap. “Don’t you think I should be asking you that?” Whitney shot back, not intimidated in the least.


“Excuse me…”


“Are you just deaf or plain dumb?”


“Where do you get off?”


“Get out of my limo…” Whitney demanded pointing at the door but the limo driver started driving off.


Whitney immediately turned the window down, revealing the front where the driver was. “Excuse me, can you please stop the car there’s an intruder in my limo.”


“Your limo!” Fox put the window back up.


“Ignore her.” Fox politly waved as the window went back up.


“This is Gwen Hotchkiss’ limo. I should have you arrested…”


“Well you’ll feel like a moron because Gwen’s my best friend. She arranged all of this.” Fox just started at her, questioning her recent admission but somehow he believed her. His stares made her feel uncomfortable.


“Not that’s any of your business. So how long have you been stalking her?” Whitney finished, figuring the staring would stop.


“Don’t you think you’re cute…?”


“Correction I know I’m cute.” He picked up the car phone and started dialing.


“What are you doing?” Whitney asked.


“I’m minding my business…try it.” Fox winked, completely ignoring Whitney’s attitude.


“NOT in my car, you’re not because it becomes my business.” She grabbed the phone and hung up his call.


Fox wasn’t in the mood to take her on, so he took out his phone. “Hey Loma…change of plans…I’m on my way back. Things didn’t work out…ok see ya then.” He put the phone down.


The sound of Loma made Whitney immediately think of ‘her Loma’. “No way we know the same Loma…” Whitney mumbled unaware he heard her.


“Maybe we do…Loma, short for Paloma Lopez-Fitzgerald, who’s my best friend.” Whitney wasn’t in the mood to be nice, especially not to such an arrogant jerk but couldn’t resist for whatever reason…


“Omigosh…” Amazed at how small the world is.


“I take it we do know the same Paloma Lopez-Fitzgerald. Goodie you’re not psychotic after all. I’m Fox.” He put out his hand but she just stared at it.


“If I’m so damn psychotic, and you stayed in this limo with me, what does that make you?” Whitney asked, looking at him as if he was a complete retard.


“I hit a nerve?” Fox asked, attempting to caress her face but she smacked his hand away.


“Well…”


“IT was a rhetorical question Fox.” Whitney finished, cutting off Fox and half smiling.


“Ok, nameless beauty…wait is that an actual smile?”


“It’s Whitney. And no, my face gets stuck sometimes…” They both started laughing. The limo finally drove up to her sister’s house. Whitney was about to open the door but Fox stopped her.


“You know the Bennett’s too…?”


“Too? How do you know them?” Whitney asked cutting him off but before she could wait for a response she saw Isis running from the backyard to the front.


“That damn dog…” Whitney was about to go after her but Jack beat her to it.


“I think he’s got it.” Fox finished. “So how do you know the Bennett’s?” Fox repeated.


“I’m Simone’s sister…”


“I knew she had a sister but I had no idea…”


“Ms. Russell…” The limo driver opened the door extending his hand, to collect hers so he can escort her out.


“Here let me…” Fox insisted on taking the bags from the driver and tipping him for his fine service. Fox escorted her Whitney to the door.


“Thanks you didn’t have to…” Whitney started fumbling with the copy of keys Simone gave her.


“I know besides I’m headed to Pilar’s anyway after I….” Before Fox could finish Simone opened the door.


“That was fast…OMGOSH WHIT!!!!!!!!” Simone screeched jumping up and down. She grabbed Whitney and Whitney started jumping up and down as they formed a small circle. They released their embrace.


“Turn around…let me get a full view…ooh nice, you finally have curves…still no ass, that’s ok do the butt lifts I told you about. What’s this boobage action…London did you wonders my love.” Simone grabbed Whitney’s chin. “I’m so proud!”


“Simoooooone.” Whined an embarrassed Whitney as Fox smirked.


“My bad I forgot he was here…what are you doing here?” asked Simone


“It’s nice to see you too Simone…”


“Whoa déjà vu…” Simone stated moving both her hands in a circular motion, one each in Whitney and Fox’s face. Whitney and Fox exchanged confused glares. “…that’s not what I meant and you know it.”


“I was escorting your gorgeous sister safely to your home.”


“Sure you were…” Simone looked at him up and down.


“Noah’s not here; he went to the office…” Simone waved them both in the living room.


“WHY? I told him to take a vacation, take you guys away courtesy of Crane Industries…”


“You did what? And he forgot to tell me that….oh he gets a beat down too.” Simone made a fist.


“You still didn’t find Gracie…” Whitney walked towards the sofa, removing her coat and sitting down.


“Who’s Gracie?” Fox asked, cutting off an annoyed Whitney as he densely sat next to her .


“DO you always do that?” snapped Whitney.


“Do what? I get it you’re back to angry mode…small request, next time can I get a heads up.” Fox teased. Whitney rolled her eyes.


Simone smirked and shook her head. “Oh lord…here we go.”


“What?” Fox and Whitney asked in unison, and then identically stared at each other.


“Yup this is going to be a long weekend…” Simone mumbled.


“I said, do you guys want anything to drink, I mean I hate to disturb whatever this is called.” Simone grinned. Whitney shot her sister a glare.


“Yes I’d love some pink ice tea…”


“PINK ice tea?” Whitney and Simone burst in hysterical laughter.


“What’s wrong with pink ice tea? It’s good.” Fox defended.


“I bet it is…but I just never heard such a manly man…”


“You think I’m manly?” Whitney gave Fox a look. She had no answer, she refused to cave so she thought silence would work…WRONG.


“Gracie is what I call my niece, after her middle name Grace.”


Simone shook her head, rolled her eyes amazed at how clueless her sister is. She sighed heavily. “I’m gonna go get the pink ice tea…as if you can hear me.” Simone said looking at Whitney and Fox locked eyes, staring at each other like they were the only ones in the room. “Yup I’m just invisible in my own damn house. Lovely.”


Fox laughed. “Thanks for answering my first question ten minutes later. SO I take it I have to wait ten more for this one?”


Whitney started twirling her favorite piece of hair behind her ear. “Uh…I’m going to help my sister.” Whitney got up and power walked into the kitchen. Fox went after her.


“Not so fast…” He grabbed her arm and spun her around, pined her to the wall in the foyer and putting both arms up, blocking her from escaping.


“This is just rude….” Whitney started.


“Look at me.” Fox said, and Whitney made eye contact with his lips. Whitney could do this, he’s just a guy. Right?


“Ok I’m looking at you. So now what?” She whispered, already knowing the answer.


“Breakdown what makes me so manly…?” Fox asked flashing that Crane million dollar smile.


“I didn’t mean that, it was a slip…so I…”


“Want me, I know, I’m just irresistible. It’s ok.” He moved closer to her, bent his head down making it look like he was going to kiss her, so she closed her eyes but he went for her ear and whispered, “Admitting is the first step to recovery.”


Popping open her eyes…that just made Whitney’s blood boil. Payback’s a bitch… “You’re right…” Fox was surprised she said that, he was prepared for more hardball tactics.


He made eye contact with her. She smiled then slapped him again. “So the moment you realize your problem the better off you’ll be.” She pushed him off her and went into the kitchen. He laughed finding Whitney Russell very amusing as he soon followed.


“Ok pink ice tea…” Simone placed the tray on the table as she stared at her sister walking directly to the freezer, opening the door. She grabbed a bunch of the crushed ice, stuffing it in her mouth as if the cool drops of water going down her throat were pure heaven.


“Fox what did you do to my sister?” asked Simone. Whitney stopped dead in her tracks; she didn’t think he’d follow her to the kitchen. She slowly turned around and looked directly at her sister.


“What makes you think he did anything?”


“It’s actually the opposite Mone…” Fox made direct eye contact with Whitney.


“Only I call her Mone.” Whitney bickered, like a little two year old, using it as a poor excuse to break eye contact.


“Sorry…didn’t know you had ownership to the nickname Mone.” Fox put his hands up as like Whitney the cop told Fox the lawbreaker to freeze, never breaking his gaze.


“I’ll let you two get reacquainted…”


“Don’t leave on my behalf.” Whitney cut in, staring at her nails.


“I’m not don’t worry.” He kissed Simone on the cheek not breaking eye contact with Whitney.


“Hey would you like me to bring Gracie…I mean Domi back here? Whitney probably owns the name Gracie too. Can’t upset her now can we?” He said, talking to Simone as if Whitney wasn’t in the room, which worked her very last. Simone found it very amusing.


“No its fine, I agreed for her to stay over there until I’m completely calm and I’m not. Thanks though, here.” Simone handed him his pink ice tea in disposable cup.


“Aah pink express…you’re the best” He hugged her.


“UM excuse me. Both of you knew where my niece was and you didn’t bother letting me know!?!” Snapped Whitney.


“Did you bother asking one of us? No. I can’t speak for Simone but I’m not a mind reader.” Fox replied.


“Nope I’m not one either…Fox is right.” Simone agreed, looking at her sister. Whitney blinked, and just looked at her sister blankly.


“Well I’m off…” Fox walked towards the backdoor, passing Whitney…of course. “That’s a great look for you.” Whitney pushed Fox outside, and slammed the door in his face.


“Somebody’s got a crush” Simone taunted.


“Who me?”


“Nah the other flushed faced chick standing right behind you.” Simone pointed and Whitney actually looked.


“Omigosh! She looked…I…I…got nothing. Just give up.” Simone shook her head.


“Oh shut up, um did you forget about Dylan Banning…?” Whitney looked at her sister then took the pitcher of ice tea and put it in the fridge. She turned around. “…you know the reason I’m here in the first place.” Whitney ended.


“Oh I didn’t forget but you did, shame on you what is the object of your affection going to think? Especially since he has no clue you even care?” Simone mocked.


“Ass…so how do you know Fox Crane?”


“Uh huh…forget that, I need to know how you two ended up at my front door acting like dogs in heat. Well you did for damn sure.”


“Would you look at that, its dinner time…? Let’s go get Gracie and Jack…”


“You rang my love?” asked Jack sliding in the kitchen, swearing he’s some Don Juan.


“Ugh…gag me; she doesn’t want your ass!” Simone snuffed Jack.


“Did you get Isis?” Jack nodded his head.


Simone glared at Whitney. “This conversation isn’t over missy.” Simone was about to leave the kitchen.


“Where are you going?” asked Whitney.


“I’m going to get your Gracie.” Simone replied.


“What? You’re afraid I’ll bite….I will only if you want me too.”


“Yeah its time vomit now.” Simone left the kitchen.


Whitney laughed. “Oh Jackie, I forgot how special our moments were…so how are you?” Whitney was unfazed by Jack’s stares yet Fox’s got to her? Hmmm…


“I’m good…now that you’re back in town…”


“On second thought, I think you should go get Gracie…I’m not ready to face that child.” Simone said, interrupting Jack’s constant attempt to snag Whitney.


“Ok, I’m leaving now…Jack want to come with me?”


“NO…uh he can’t come with you because I need him to go to the store and get Noah’s juice…we’re all out and you know Noah can’t drink anything but Ocean Spray.” Simone finished.


“So why can’t we just make one trip together?” asked Jack


“Yeah why Simone?”


“Be…cause Noah is coming home soon and I’d like us all to be ready for supper. GOSH is that too much to ask!!?!?” Simone grabbed her head, acting like she was in pain. Whitney walked over to her sister and hugged her.


“After the day I had…is it just too much to ask a few small favors from my family??? Is it???” Whitney looked at Jack as they both felt so bad.


“Of course not, I’ll go to the store, Whit go bring Gracie home. Simone why don’t you go upstairs and lay down.” Finished Jack.


“Ok…” Simone sniffed. They both went to their destinations.


“Suckers…yeah Whit lets see ya front on Fox now.” Snickered Simone.


~*~


Whitney was about to knock on the door but it was open ajar. “Hello…” slowly opening Pilar’s door and walked inside.


“NENE!!!!” Domi jumped off the couch and ran to her favorite aunt.


“GRACIE!” Whitney scooped her up and swung her around.


“How are you gorgeous…?”


“Gooder cuz of you. Home forever?” Domi asked.


“No sweetheart just for the weekend this time but I promise I’ll come back for a longer visit.


“AWWW man! No fair. No fun.” Domi pouted. Domi started wiggling her way out of Whitney’s grip. Whitney took the hint and kneeled down as Domi stayed in Whit’s arms…leaning against her thigh.


“Hey Cali come…meet NENE.” Domi waved Cali over as Cali skipped to Domi. “Dis is NENE. NENE dis is Cali.”


“Hello Cali.” Whitney smiled


“HAIR like me!” Cali beam, and then ran her pint size hand through Whitney’s hair. Then she hugged her.


“Yes pretty hair like you.” Whitney returned Cali’s hug.


“See cute like me!” Domi added. Whitney laughed, while she was hugging Cali she immediately thought about her star locket. Both of the girls jumped at the sound of something shattering, they both ran into Whitney’s arms.


“Its ok girls…I’m here now.” Whitney rubbed both of their backs.


“There you guys are…” Slightly out of breath, Ethan thought he lost the girls again. They were playing hide-go-seek.


“I’m…”


“I know who you are. You’re Ethan Crane.” Whitney finished for Ethan.


“How’d you know?” Whitney stood as both girls held onto Whitney’s leg, one child on each leg. Actually Cali grabbed Whitney's leg first and Domi followed her saying, "My NENE!" Cali stuck her tongue out at Domi making her laugh.


“Well your ex Gwen is my roommate/best friend…” Domi and Cali both looked at Ethan waiting for his reply.


“That means you didn’t hear such good things about me huh?” The girls now darted their little heads back in Whitney’s direction.


“Not so much…but hey maybe your fiancée Theresa, my childhood best friend can work on that.”


“Wait that makes you Whitney Russell…wow I’ve heard so much about you from Theresa…oooh you did just say you’re Gwen’s roommate/friend. You’re in my prayers.” They both laughed. Now the girls looked at each other, both shrugging like they just don’t have a clue.


“So…what’s going on in there?” Whitney pointed to the kitchen.


“Um…well there’s no tea party going on in there.” Ethan chuckled. Whitney bent down to face the girls


“Ok girls I’m gonna need you to go with Uncle Ethan to my sister’s house.


“NO MOMMIE…please NENE! Mommy mad.”


“Its ok Domi, your mom isn’t mad anymore; now go on with your new friend Cali.” Cali hugged Whitney and whispered “Madu” and kissed her cheek. Whitney caressed her hair.


“So she gets English instead of Italian…” Ethan tickled Cali before holding her hand.


“She speaks Italian?” asked Whitney stopping them from leaving.


“Yeah she was born in Italy. This is Pilar’s adopted daughter. See you later” Ethan and the girls left, and headed for Simone’s house. Whitney headed for the kitchen.


“You can now all scream at the top of your lungs…the girls are at Mone’s.” All eyes followed Whitney’s voice.


“OMG!!! WHIT!!!!!!!” Theresa screeched and ran straight into Whitney’s arms making both of them fall to the ground.


“Ok Theresita, stop cutting off her oxygen supply. And stop being greedy.” Paloma pushed Theresa off Whitney and pulled Whitney to her feet.


“Hey girl, long time! You look great.” Finished Paloma hugging Whitney.


“Hey Loma…you look amazing…you both do!” Whitney grabbed Theresa in the hug this time. They released their embrace.


Whitney walked over to Pilar and hugged. “Hi Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald, you look great.”


“Thank you darling, so do you. How’s London…and Gwen?”


“Its great I’m almost done with school.” “Gwen?” Jonathan and Theresa said in unison.


“How do you know Gwen Whit?” asked Theresa.


“She’s my roommate and a very dear friend...”


“A dear friend?!?! When did you get a chance to drive a stake through my heart?”


“Theresa PLEASE.” Whitney finished, not even in the mood.


“Sorry I took so long, I was with this chick that rocked my world…” Fox started saying but was cut off.


“Oh yeah? Did you rock hers???” Whitney teased.


“Probably not.” She finished. They just stared at each other, which Paloma caught.


“FORGET Fox…tell me when you had time to stab me in the back?” Theresa swung her around.


“Theresa por favor, Whitney must be tired.” Pilar added.


“You’re mother’s right…” Jonathan interjected.


“I KNOW you’re not talking. You absolutely can’t be. Sperm donors don’t have rights. Far less opinions why are you still here anyway.” Paloma snapped. And the vicious cycle started again, Jonathan speaking, Pilar picking up for him and Theresa and Paloma rotating biting off their heads.


Whitney knew she should try and intervene but somehow couldn’t bring herself to. “So I rocked your world? Impressive…who knew two slaps made your day?” Whitney sneered. She moved closer to him.


“What makes you think I was talking about you?” asked Fox.


“Well if you weren’t…rocking someone’s world for only 14 minutes, then there wasn’t much rockin’…don't you think?”


Fox chuckled. "You tell me...you counted." Fox wanted directly in front of her, Fox and Whitney were now sharing the same oxygen...inches away from each other. He stroked her cheek then whispered. “You really need to get over yourself…”


Once again Whitney was suckered, third time will not be the charm. “The same self that ‘rocked’ your world…? So being cocky only works when it stars you? Touché…” Whitney teased; they once again shared a smile. Whitney and Fox were acting as if four grown people weren’t surrounding them screaming at the top of their lungs. Once again Paloma saw their interaction.


“This is insane…we shouldn’t be acting like barbarians in front of our guests.” Paloma shouted, finally got Fox and Whitney’s attention.


“Please Loma, they’re not guests…best friends don’t count as guests.” Theresa replied. “But you’re right I’m just too damn tired of repeating myself to this…”


“I’m your father...”


“Funny how you want to be her dad but can’t be a dad to your other children…you know the ones that you raised…at least you were suppose to. So why don’t you leave because they don’t need your charity.” Whitney added, almost regretting she was so bold but realized it wasn’t a mistake after seeing Theresa and Paloma’s smile.


“And on that note you should get out, I’ve got to play catch up with my best friend.” Theresa was guiding Jonathan to the back door in the kitchen.


“I’m not giving up on you guys…” Jonathan said.


“TOO bad…” Said Paloma, and she slammed the door in his face. Theresa waved him off.


Theresa hopped around and grabbed Whitney’s arm. “Chatterbox time…”

“What happened to the stake I stabbed through your heart?”


“Premature accusation….now come on lets go. Mama we’ll be in my old room.”


“I’m mama again…”


“Yeah Mrs. LF just like I’m best friend again.” “Is she always that…?”


“Crazy? Yes.” Pilar and Paloma said in unison finishing Fox’s thought.


“Ok missy you have some explaining to do…” Theresa said as she closed the door to her childhood bedroom.


“ME??? I’m not the future Mrs. Ethan Crane…how did THAT happened?” Whitney sat on Theresa’s bed.


“Ok how bout we play speech serum…?”


“No Resa…I don’t feel like playing that.”


“I knew it!”


“You know nothing, be quiet. Fine I’ll play I’m first.” Whitney grabbed her hair clip and clamped her hair back.


“Why Ethan?”


“Because he was with Gwen.”


“Wow I didn’t think you’d answer so easily.”


“It’s our game Whit…I’ll never lie…” Whitney gave her a ‘bullshit’ look.


“Ok I’ll never lie with this, especially since this is our sacred game.” Theresa gave Whitney a look that said ‘happy?’


“My turn. Why did you leave?” The infamous question, Whitney knew she had to face the music sooner or later. She took a deep breath.


“Because I had an affair with a married man.” Releasing the breath, she was holding in for what seemed like for years. She sat in Indian style on Theresa’s bed hugging Unicorn, Theresa’s stuffed Frog.


“SHUT UP, with whom!?!?” Theresa shouted, pushing Whitney’s elbow.


“Its not your turn…its mine. Gosh don’t sound too excited now…you might pass out.” Whitney hit Theresa with Unicorn.


“Sorry…” Theresa whispered, taking the hint.


“Why did you pull away right before I left?”


Theresa laughed. “Because I had an affair with a married man.”


Whitney laughed “I see why you laughed…”


“Yeah, talk about two of a kind. Did you love him?”


“You don’t want to know who he is?”


“Not yet, its me remember what’s my middle name…?”


“Nut job?”


“HA my other middle name…”


“Oh drama queen…of course how can I forget?”


“Its ok, I’ll let this slip slide…just this once!” Theresa warned, waving her index finger in Whitney’s face.


“Thank for your kindness.” Whitney bowed. They both laughed.


“Now answer my question.”


“I thought loving him was the equivalent of being insane…like nothing and everything made sense. Up was down, right was wrong, day was night. IT was that intense.”


“Wow…” Theresa said with great admiration in her voice.


“I don’t think I’ve ever loved like that.” Whitney smiled.


“I’m not wasting a question on your feelings for Ethan, nice try though, you get an E for effort.” She patted Theresa on the back.


“What drove you to have an affair?”


“My mother having the hots for the guy…”


“WOW T”


“Yeah I know I was young and dumb back then…”


“You mean dumber back then…say it right.”


“HA. Anyway, it was right after I found papers…letters actually that were addressed to my sister and I stating that Jonathan Hotchkiss was our biological dad and my mother only married papa, have him raise us as his own just so she can stick it to Jonathan because he choose Rebecca over her.” Theresa brushed off like it was no big deal.


“I’m so sorry Resa…”


“Its fine, it’s over and done with, who cares.” She waved it off.


“I do, why did you push me away when you needed me the most?” Whitney asked as she hugged Theresa.


“The same reason you did…I just didn’t know how to tell you such life
altering news.” She replied, releasing their hug.


“I never pushed you away…” Whitney defended


“Sure you did, you couldn’t even tell me you had an abortion…yeah I knew all this time, minus the affair. Your sister told me about it so don’t be mad at her.”



”I’m not mad at her, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you, I was just so ashamed I
was having an affair with a married man that resulted in a pregnancy I just thought I had all the answers by running away. I didn’t even tell Mone about the affair. In fact you’re the first person I told.”


“My turn…”


“NO its my turn.” Whitney corrected.


“NO its mine! Because you asked me why I pushed you away…”


“OH come on! That’s a cheap shot and you know it! Fine. Cheater ask away.”


“Thank you. How close are you to Gwen?” Whitney knew Theresa was going to ask this question too.


“I was waiting for this one; she’s my other best friend…”


“LIKE you and me best friend?”


“Yes Theresa. Now I get two in a row.” Whitney stuck her tongue out.


“Hey that’s not fair I was just finding out devastating news my best friend was stolen by that bitch! I was thrown off guard!”


“Stop it; I don’t encourage her to talk badly about you so I won’t let you do it with her.” Whitney warned. Theresa looked at Whitney with a ‘fine for now’ look.


“Don’t test me Fitzgerald…”


“Wow you only call me that when you’re about to deck me…”


“Whatever, I hit you once! By accident at Ms. Fuller’s funeral and you still hold that crap over my head. We were EIGHT. LET it go!”


“You hit me more than once but we won’t go down memory lane…in fact you were a walking accident when it came to my face.”


“What are you talking about?”


“Roseland Tournament rings a bell?” Whitney busted out in hysterical laughter.


“Yeah I thought you’d like that one.”


“Oh come on I TOLD you to move, but you insisted in standing in that specific spot, you know I’m skilled when it comes to acing a tennis ball. But noooooooo stubborn ass Resa HAD to check out my assistant coach Tyson, I think. And he was way older than you, might I add…”


“So he was just good to look at...MMMMHMMMMMM. He isn’t too old now…wonder if he’s still sexy.” Theresa closed her eyes and nibbled on her bottom lip.


“You’re still a hussy…”


“That’s right and damn proud. Just because I’m getting married doesn’t
mean I’m blind. Now I’ll just be a hussy for Ethan.”


“OH you think you’re so slick changing the topic, I still remember I have two questions for you. Why did you set out to go after what Gwen had?”


“Because my mother always admired her, like she was some perfect friggin daughter, I guess I was jealous. Then when I found out that she was a person I share similar DNA with I put all the pieces together. My mom’s brilliant logic was she thought if Jonathan sees her treating Gwen and Jade as her own then he’d leave Hobo and marry my mother.”


“Now what did Hobo…I mean Rebecca ever do to you? YOU can’t call this a question called it! HA.”


Theresa shook her head, “You and your last minute rules…and you call ME a cheater. Shame on you.” Theresa sighed.


“Oh please, answer my question before your bullshit suffocates me….the walls…they’re closing in….” Whitney started choking herself.


“Assclown. Rebecca created Gwen and Jade that’s more than enough reason to hate her.”


Whitney rolled her eyes. “Whatever, next question…hmm I got to make this good…why not, why are you marrying Ethan if you don’t love him?”


“I have to but I do love him, just not the way I love Hank…”


“Bennett!?!” Whitney started laughing and Theresa nodded her head yes. “Finish your sentence, why do you have to?”


“Cause I’m pregnant.”


“Does he know?”


“No, I get two questions. Who did you have an affair with?”


“Sam Bennett”


“Wow, two years and we’re still two peas in a pod. If you loved him as much as you claimed you did, then why did you abort his child?”


“At the time I thought it was best for that baby not to be around, with Grace being murdered, Sam going to jail. I didn’t think it was fair to Noah and Jack, part of the reason why I never told Simone about Sam, that was her future father in law, even back then I knew her and Noah were getting married.” Whitney got up from the bed and walked to the windowsill.


“That’s why I never put Simone in the awkward position of feeling she had to choose between me and Noah.” Theresa walked over to Whitney and rested her chin on Whitney’s shoulders.


“But how did you have the strength to abort your baby?”


“I didn’t have any strength…”


“I don’t understand?”


“Theresa I chickened out, I gave birth to him but gave him up when I was in Italy.”

~4~
Rose Evolution...


"Mmm..." Whitney slightly tossed into the direction of the beaming ray of sunshine, shining on her face.


"Good Lord..." Despite her best efforts to keep her eyes closed, she opened them to cover Theresa's mouth.Whitney smiled at her friend who was sleeping peacefully.


"Some things never change." Whitney mumbled referring to Theresa's morning breath. Granted everyone has morning breath but Whitney was convinced Theresa's case was special. So special, she should have a 'Caution: Toxic' permanently attached her lips. Whitney slowly raised Theresa's hand, which was hanging across Whitney's stomach and rolled off the bed...


"Ow..." Well falling off the bed is more like it. She tip toed to the door hoping she didn't wake up Theresa. Whitney figured her jungle breath remained the same then the fact she's a light sleeper probably did as well.


"Yes. Mission accomplished Whit." She soundlessly closed the door.


"Where the HELL...." The hairs on the back of Whitney's neck shot up and she jumped, turning around.


"Shhh..."


"Don't you shush me!" Simone slapped Whitney's hand away from her mouth because Whitney was presumptuous enough to put it there.


"What's your problem?" Simone folded her arms.


"What's my problem?" Simone repeated. "You're the one acting like Theresa's the only person on the planet." Simone finished, unintentionally raising her voice about two octaves.


"Ugh..." Whitney frustratedly spat. She snatched Simone's arm and dragged her to Migs' old room. Miguel was Theresa and Paloma's baby cousin. Pilar took him in after his parents died in a fire and his older sister bolted a year prior to the accident. Maria, Miguel's mother was Pilar's baby sister.


"Don't be snatching me. You must have forgotten..." Simone yanked her hand from Whitney once they were inside Mig's room.


"Ok drama queen..." Whitney folded her arms.


"You can't be this mad just because I spent the night here catching up with Resa and didn't come back home. So you mind telling me what's wrong?" Whitney finished staring at Simone.


"Nothing..." Simone shrugged and walked to the bed, playing with the mahogany bed head. While Miguel stayed there he wasn't big on decorating so the room's décor was your average mixture of browns and creams with a cheetah theme, completing the causal jungle vibe it has. Migs had a thing for cheetah's....


Whitney followed her and made Simone face her. "Nothing my foot...you better tell me what's wrong and I'm not playing either." Whitney warned and Simone laughed.


"Ok keep laughing you no longer have the Altantic Ocean protecting your black ass." Whitney started poking Simone's arms.


Simone shook her head. "Just like you to act like the older sister..." Simone finally sat on the bed.


Whitney sat next to Simone. "Well sometimes you forget..." Whitney nudged Simone's elbow.


"So I just temporarily fill in your shoes, stepping into the wonderful role of you." Whitney grinned batting her eyes and Simone started busted out laughing.


"Wow I didn't think I was was that funny..."


"You're not." Simone promised, cutting off her baby sis.


"That dorky ass grin...gosh Whit prettiness shouldn't be wasted on the foolish like this." Simone finished, teasing Whitney started frowning.


"Hey its not that dorky anymore..." Whitney defended.


"I've been practicing in front of a mirror so..."


"OH GOSH..." Simone grabbed the bed frame stopping her from falling of the bed.


"Don't ever admit that outside of this room, in fact don't ever admit that again."


Whitney snuffed Simone with a pillow. "At least its not plastic looking anymore." Whitney stuck her tongue out.


"Eh...that's debatable, but for now we'll go with your story of improved smile." Simone patted Whitney on the head.


"Ass..." Whitney slapped her hand away.


"NOW tell me what's got you so worked up? But first tell me what your doing here at Pilar's and so early at that matter? 8 am you don't do am..." Whitney continued as Simone made a face.


"You thought I forgot? Negative my memory is as sharp as my vision..."


"Then you're one blind ass retard." Simone laughed but Whitney didn't.


"Oh come on...!! You left yourself WIDE open for that one sparkie." Simone defended.


"I don't remember Migs room being this big...and he always had his own bathroom...? Why is there jeans on the bed..." Simone asked, looking at the jeans as her eyes landed on the bathroom, which was closed but the light appeared to be on...must be the sunlight.


"Forget the bedroom and stop trying to change the blutty subject!" Whitney snapped.


Simone was about to say something. "I know what I just said no need to repeat it I do live in London you know." Simone smirked once again attempting to say something.


"...gosh Mone you ...can't even tell me what's wrong...? Its that bad?"


"Geez no need to try and guilt me I was just about to tell you..." Simone's phone rang.


"Uh uh...don't answer!" Whitney tried to snatch the phone. Simone looked at the ID, sucked her teeth, then silenced the phone.


"You're not even going to find out what Jack wants?" Whitney asked, assuming it was Whacko Jacko fussing over some new 'crisis'.


"That wasn't Jack it was your idiotic brother-in-law. The king of assclowns...well Jack is still the king so that makes Noah the prince or co-king...." Simone rolled her eyes, and Whitney tried not to laugh.


"Ouch. From the sounds of it, it sucks to be him right now. Especially since I know all about the wrath of Simone. But why are you mad at Noah?"


"Don't defend his ass." Simone snapped, getting up from the bed.


"I'm not! Man I can't even ask a question...geesh. I mean let me know how I should communicate with you..."


Simone ran her hands through her hair as her back was to Whitney. "Look I got my pen and paper....ready to take notes."


Simone turned around to find Whitney pretending she was writing something on invisible paper. Simone sat on the chair she was previously leaning on. "You're right." Simone muttered.


"Be still my beating heart...did Simone Dioni Russell-Bennett JUST say I'm right!?!? Oh lord...the walls....they're fading..." Whitney grabbed her heart.


"I'm melting...elting...elting...elt. Dead." Whitney threw herself on the black carpet and Simone started laughing hysterically. Just like Whit to keep a smile on Simone's face always.


"He leaves today." Simone said.


Whitney undeadeded herself and opened her eyes. "He as in your husband?"


"Yeah...remember yesterday I told you about Fox..."


"UGH. Fox..." She sat up and got up.


"Girl don't act like you don't want him."


"I'll never want his..."


"His what? Gorgeous face? God-like physique...voice that just makes you want to purrrrrrrrrr like a kitten...?" Simone shivered at the thought.


"Yeah I can see why you don't want one of the most eligible SINGLE, RICH bachelors in America. What the hell was I thinking?" Simone shook her head.


"I'm a jackass." Simone finished.


Whitney shot a glare at Simone then huffed and puffed. She started pacing back and forth. "Please, you're giving him too much credit. He's not that good looking." Whitney added, as she continued to pace.


Simone chuckled. "Right when you actually believe that, then holla at me." Simone yawned and lazily stretched.


"And you only knew him for a DAY. Just imagine how far gone you'll be if you lived here..." Simone finished.


Whitney stopped pacing and faced her sister. "You're dead..."


"On I know and you too will see in time. In a few it will be all about Dylan Banning who. Watch and see." Simone assured, cutting her sister off.


"I love Dylan that's not fair."


"No you think you love him, I'm convinced after seeing you with Fox yesterday." Simone corrected and Whitney rolled her eyes.


"Granted I've never met Dylan nor have I ever seen you with him but he doesn't top Fox...he just can't. Chemistry that intense doesn't come around twice in a lifetime."


"Whatever Mone." Whitney walked to the other side of the room, where an over sized bay window was as stood there and her back was to Simone.


"See you can't even deny it."


"That's because you'll just railroad me like I'm on trial or something."


"Well my dear, blame that on the hubby..."


"YEAH speaking of..."


"He can wait. The spotlight is now on you so its time to shine. Chop chop." Whitney sat on the windowsill still not facing her sister.


"You've never seen me with Dylan." Whitney rubbed her eyes and then there was a moment of silence.


"Ok for arguments sake...say you act the same way around Dylan as you did with Fox yesterday. Then that means you are in deep ass shama my friend..."


"Shama?" Whitney finally faced her sister.


"Shitted-Drama of course." Whitney shook her head and faced the window again.


"Only you think you have the audacity to create your own words..."


"I do. I'm Simone Bennett." Simone snapped her fingers.


"Oh shut up."


"You're wrong I only have feelings for Dylan. Besides I can't stand Fox and the feeling is very mutual." Whitney pressed her nose against the window.


"And if you believe that you're wasting your time in college."


"Whatever enough about that obnoxious jackass. So What's tickled your fanny?"


"Well Noah is a complete moron..."


"Ok you keep saying that what did he do?"


"Anyway as I was saying..."


"Don't anyway me, you forget I'm the only one in this room. So you can anyway all you want, but just know you'll be talking to yourself nut job. Ok now continue."


Simone rolled her eyes. "As I was saying about Fox before you started with your hissy fit, Fox arranged for Noah to have a paid vacation for two weeks..."


"So...?" Whitney shrugged.


"If you shut your trap for I don't know one minute, I might have a chance to tell you why I'm so irked."


"My bad I'll shut up now."


"Then stop moving your lips allowing words to form. Thanks. So instead of Noah thinking about taking gee his WIFE, that smart ass opted take Jack...."


"Ouch..."


"Fucka ouch. If Calista didn't stay over last night I swear Whitney...Domi was gon' witness the murder of her father."


"That's not funny..."


"Am I cracking a smile? Seriously my lips forming a ghetto ass U right now...?" Simone took off her jacket and papers from her inside pocket fell out.


Whitney saw the papers and grabbed her mouth. "OH NO don't tell me those are divorce papers Simone..."


"Divorce papers? Are you crazy? I'd kill Noah before I'd divorce him. Saves me a fortune."


"Then what are they?"


"Research I did..."


"On what?"


"Oh I heard once from some customer that came in the boutique..."


"Oh how's the boutique?" Whitney asked.


"Fine, Loma's there now, interrupt me again and I'll staple your lips together." Simone warned.


"Anyway... the customer told me that you can smother someone without killing them and all the damage you'll do is make them a little handicap..." Simone beamed.


"So I figured I can do this to Jack, that way he can be the bum he desires just in a nursing home. Am I a genius or what?"


"No you're mentally disturbed. Like seek help pronto. I don't want this crap near my niece." Whitney ordered Simone.


"Why didn't you try the rational approach...say talking to your husband?" Whitney finished.


"You and I both know I just don't do rational. That's why I came here...figured talking to you would help and I brought the girls because they stopped me from having a cuss fest." Whitney laughed.


"Besides I had to bring Calista back here anyway. Question, why didn't you warn me that Domi and Calista are attached at the hip? I'm going to have big problems now...but she's a cutie though." Simone continued.


"Isn't she just adorable...too cute for words." Whitney beamed.


"Like she's got like the best cheeks I wanna squeeze them forever." Whitney gushed at the thought.


"I didn't get to spend that much time with her because of the Jonathan mess but she's so beautiful."


"What Jay mess?"


"BS drama, no worries you missed nothing." Whitney assured.


"Oh ok...but if I didn't know any better I'd say little miss Calista is giving my Domi some competition in your heart."


"Are you kidding me? No one can replace my Gracie."


"Good. You don't want to take on that child."


"Please you forget who you're talking to. One back slap and she'll never walk crooked again." Simone laughed.


"That's true and she knows better than to come up in my face..."


"MAAAAAAAAAAAAAA...!!!" Domi screamed from the kitchen. Whitney chuckled.


"Yeah sounds like you have her in check. You totally show her who's boss." Whitney teased as Simone waved her off.


"You coming?"


"Yeah just let me wash my face."


"Later gator."


Whitney got up from the windowsill and opened the bathroom door. "So I'm an obnoxious jackass?" Fox asked, folding his arms on his bare chest making his defined pecks fully flexed as he leaned in the door way exposing his chiseled chest and eight pact. He was wearing black boxer briefs the sunlight reflecting his pearly white teeth didn't help matters at all. Whitney turned around and mouthed 'oh my god.' She wasn't dressed any better either...poor them. She was wearing spandex black short shorts and a laced black tank top, stopping right above her navel and dangling star diamond belly ring, which Fox found incredibly sexy from the brief glimpse he saw, of course masking much better than Whitney. Dylan and Gwen who anyone...?


"Yyyou..."


"Go on you can do it. Hooked on phonics worked for me. It will definitely work for you." Fox's arrogance snapped Whitney right back to reality as she turned around and faced him. They were now staring into each other eyes. Whitney looked away first.


"You just proved I was being to nice..." Whitney tried walking away but Fox grabbed her arm.


"That's it? I don't get a huff and puff...? I'm hurt." Whitney looked at her arm then yanked it from his grip as Fox chuckled.


"I didn't..." Whitney started defending herself then stopped.


"Why the hell were you listening to a private conversation anyway?" Fox grabbed his jeans from the bed and hopped in them.


"Hello...? An answer would be nice." Whitney waved her hand in his face as he sat down and started dusting off his socks before putting them on. He finally looked up at her.


"It would wouldn't it?" He added agreeing.


"UGH. I can't stand you!!" Whitney proceeded to the door and grabbed the door knob.


"I don't owe you anything." Fox continued as Whitney let go of the door knob and turned around to face him.


"The hell you don't."


"Really? I'm not the one that came barging in here..." Fox stood up to put on his black tank. Whitney walked over to him as they once again stood standing face to face.


"OOPS how stupid of me to forget that Cranes think they own and run everything..."


"Not think, we do. And you should have known someone was in here." Fox added, cutting Whitney off as he nudged her chin.


"How was I suppose to know that?" Whitney asked, slapping his hand away.


"The pants on the bed should have been your dead give away..."


"I thought they were Migs!"


"Oh please! Miguel hasn't stayed in this house in years...nice try. Did you know your nose wiggles when you lie...its very cute." Whitney huffed and puffed then