Know its been a while since I posted my first Billy and Mac offering but the powers that be on Y&R ran me off with their treatment of this pair. But now that they have offically run them into the ground I figured any remaining loyal Billy and Mac fans could use some reminders of their once beautiful story. So here is another one of the stories I wrote about them a while back. Please forgive any grammatical errors and also the format but its an old piece that I haven't read in a while. Be cause of its length I have broken it into parts. I really hope you enjoy!
Disclaimer: All Charatcers are the property of CBS, Sony and Y&R. Any lyrics are also property of that artist.
Prelude . . .
This is a story of destiny and
fate. What if Mac hadn't run away from home and
never came to Genoa City? Would she and Billy
still have met at some point?
Mac and her mother, Amanda, had always
been close and Mac's life was pretty normal in St.
Louis. They pair lived on a small ranch outside of
the city and raised some animals. There were
boyfriends for Amanda but none was ever more
important then her daughter. Mac was pretty quiet
and kept to herself until she went off to college
in New York City. There she discovered a whole new
side of herself and also that fate was about to
began to work it's magic . . .
Billy's history, on the other hand,
was pretty much the same. He had lived with his
dad most of his life, first in Genoa City as a
baby, then in New York, before they came back to
G.C. when he was sixteen. At first, Billy was
less then pleased with coming back but he,
eventually, made friends and fell into line,
somewhat. He soon, though, began messing with the
'in crowd' and getting into all kind of trouble.
His father, and mother, who reentered his life to
his disdain, tried everything they could to steer
him right and managed to see him through high
school.
They then decided it was best, after
some final fallout, for him to go away to college.
He happily headed back to New York to start to
find himself, and as it turned out, find his
destiny, as well . . .
Chapter 1 . . .
"Come on, Mac . . . It's time to
start getting your groove on, Girl," bellowed her
close friend over the loud music in the jamming
club. Mac just shook her head with a sheepish
grin, still not believing she had let her buddy
finally talk her into doing Spring Break in Miami.
Her first couple of years of college, Mac was so
lost in her academics, she didn't bother with
partying and such. However, that all changed when
she and Tanya crossed paths. They met in their
creative writing course and became fast friends.
Next to her mother, Mac considered Tee, as she
called her, her closest friend.
She was actually so unlike Mac, it
made them that much more compatible. While Mac
was not one to back down when challenged, she was
pretty soft spoken until then. Tanya, on the other
hand, was a petite mocha beauty with a very
boisterous outgoing personality and didn't
hesitate to say what was on her mind. Once they
felt each other out, the two ladies began spending
most of their free time together. Slowly, Tanya
brought Mac more and more out of her shell, and
they started hanging at frat parties, going to
concerts and just experiencing all campus life had
to offer. That included dating, to which Mac was a
bit hesitant. She did allow her friend to set her
up a few times but quickly found herself
unimpressed with most college guys. They all
seemed so into themselves and swore they were
players. It annoyed Mac to no end. She, though,
didn't let those experiences damper all the fun
she and Tanya were having and planned to have that
week.
After getting settled into their
hotel, the duo set out to sample the atmosphere.
They got a early dinner before cruising about some
in their fiery red convertible rental car. Then
when darkness fell, they followed the horde of
kids to the 'Hot Spot', a trendy nightclub that
catered to the college masses. They entered to a
booming sound system and people dancing, talking,
drinking, and whatever. The variety of music was
fitting for the mixture of people, rock,r&b and
rap alternated at the exuberant crowd was engrossed
in each tune. The pair found an empty table and
had been sitting there all of ten minutes before
Tanya started in.
Mac didn't consider herself much of a
dancer, which made her weary of her friend's
request. She continued to prod but Mac remained
steadfast, "Tee, you know I'd just embarrass us
both out there . . . you go on and I'll hold our
table." Tanya, though, defiantly shook her head as
she retorted, "Whatever . . . you know you can
move that thang, Girlfriend, and besides, there's
no way I'm leaving you here like a bump on a log.
The whole point of this trip was for us, both, to
let our hair down . . . there's too much partying
and guys to be had. Mac, again, grinned and sighed
lightly at her buddy's persistence. Mac knew,
however, it wouldn't take long for this to turn
into another attempt to hook her up. Tanya told
her she thought a cute, fun loving guy was just
what Mac needed to loosen up more.
Mackenzie didn't see it that way, though.
She wasn't really shy around guys but she never
felt completely comfortable around them. She
didn't have much experience, as her mom had always
tried to keep her from 'complications' she said
came with them. She had gone to an all girl school
until high school and once there she felt so
awkward around boys, she barely hung out with any
and didn't really start dating until college. Mac
had a feeling this went back to her father not
being around. Her mother never divulged much
about him only to say he had a greater calling. It
hurt her to think anything could be more important
then his own flesh and blood. It was from that she
found herself confused about what to expect from
any man and when she brought that confusion to her
mom, she gave her usual, earthy, spiritual advice
. . . when it's right you will know. Well as of
yet, nothing had felt right, so Mac pressed on.
She didn't want to disappoint Tanya, but
the idea of dancing with strange guys just wasn't
doing much for her. So she, again, tried to talk
her friend down, "Trust me, I doubt, highly, I'm
going to find my soul mate out on that crowded
floor." Tanya gave her friend an incredulous
look, "Who said anything about a soul mate . . .
this about us enjoying our youth, Honey. We're
young, intelligent, beautiful women who have our
whole lives to think about that kind of stuff but
for now . . . " She paused briefly and gazed past
Mac, for a long moment, before concluding, "I see
two Mr. Right Now's checking us out from across
the room." Mac followed her gaze and was,
immediately, captured in the most sparkling blue
peepers she had ever seen. For a brief moment, it
was like they were in a vacuum. His bright eyes
only matched by his small but mesmerizing grin.
The blond hair hunk returned her gaze
relentlessly until Mac, attempted to regain
herself and turned back towards her friend.
"How do you even know for sure they're
looking this way?" she asked quietly,
contemplating that notion thoroughly in her mind.
Could a guy that gorgeous really be checking her
out? Tanya stood, this time, and clasped onto her
reluctant friend's arm, pulling her up, as well.
"There's more then one way to find out." Mac's
eyes quickly widened as Tanya began to tug her
across the room towards the two dapper gentlemen .
. .
Chapter 2 . . .
Billy was quietly taking in the chaotic
scene around him, absorbing the energy of the
deafening dance club. The placed was packed with
college students from near and far. All were going
like Energizer bunnies with no signs of slowing
down . . . all except Billy anyway. He wasn't much
into partying anymore. He'd seen the dark side of
it and didn't want to go back. He, though,
promised his buddy, Greg, he'd come out and have
some fun. So as the two friends hung out at the
bar surveying the scene, Billy allowed his mind to
wonder some, finally thinking of just how far he
had come since he'd been away at school.
When he first arrived, he had attempted
to keep up his party guy image that got him into
so much trouble back home but when his grades
suffered and his parents threatened to make him
come back home, Billy settled down quickly. He, at
that time, had no desire to go back to Genoa City.
He loved his family, especially his father and
older brother, Jack, but so much had gone on there
before he left he just wasn't ready to deal with
it all again. The biggest obstacle being his own
mother. While he loved her too, she was always so
meddlesome and controlling when it came to him,
making him not want to be around her at all.
In fact, she was the reason for allot of his
behavioral problems. She had all but bailed on him
when he was a young kid and only made appearances
when it suited her. Billy had still managed to
remain pretty tame though, until she reentered his
life when he was older. By then, he was so
resentful of their lack of a relationship, from
the start, he would constantly do things just
because he knew it would set her off. And back
then and, even some, today, he felt she deserved
the stress.
Then there was the other reason he wanted to
steer clear of GC as much as possible. It was the
place he had his heart utterly destroyed by the
one woman he truly thought cared about and got
him. Those wounds still hurting to this day. So
much pain and strife had come out of that town,
Billy just wanted to be strong enough to face it
when he finally did go back. His thoughts had gone
far away from the club scene and his friend was
doing all he could to bring him back. "Hey, earth
to Billy . . . Did you hear me? " said Greg while
waving a hand in front of his face. Billy,
finally, acknowledged his friend, turning to face
the muscle bound, red head, "I'm sorry . . . what
did you say?" "Where did you just go? You were
completely out of it," was his bewildered
observation. Billy just shook it off, not wanting
to go over the details," Nothing. I was just
thinking . . . anyhow what were you saying?"
Greg quickly let him off the hook as he
turned his focus squarely on a girl that was
eyeing him hard. "I said check out the talent over
there." He pointed towards Tanya and Mac, who had
yet to turn around. Billy smirked at his friend,
knowing he wouldn't stop until he had the lovely
woman's hotel number, "So is she your next mark?"
"Well, my friend, that depends on you," he started
mysteriously. Billy furrowed his brow before
replying, "I know I'm going to hate myself for
asking, but what can I do?" Greg put on a smooth
smile of his own as he slyly replied, "Keep her
friend occupied for me."
Billy quickly shot down that idea, "I don't
think so. I'm only here because you said you just
wanted to hang. I'm not looking to hook up with
anybody." "Come on, Bill. I'm not asking you to
marry the chick just keep her company so I can get
my mack on . . . please. Pretty please," he whined
with a fake pout. Billy sighed heavily at his
friend's antics and was about to shoot him down
again, not even wanting to put himself in position
to possibly be hurt like he had been before, when
the girl's friend turned and locked him in an
almost hypnotic stare. Her soft warm brown eyes
seemed to be peering inside of him. He couldn't
stop himself from smiling, lightly, at the tiny
brown haired beauty.
He held her gaze until she relented
and turned away. His grin never wavered after. He
then faced his friend, once more, and said, "All
right, but how are we going to approach?" Greg was
about to answer when he saw the girls rise and
appear to head towards them. He pointed Billy that
way and confidently said, "Maybe we don't have
to." Both guys then watched as the pair came,
temptingly, close to them only to stop at the edge
of the dance floor and began moving, together, to
a lively tune that was just beginning. Billy and
Greg eyed them for few moments before finally
removing themselves from their perches and heading
towards the two fair ladies . . .
Chapter 3 . . .
'Girl, I know this might seem
strange
But let me know if I am out
of order
For stepping to you this way
See I've been watching you
for a while
And I just gotta let you know
I'm really feeling your style
Tanya had began to dance freely to the
slamming tune, with Mac taking cues from her
buddy. They both were soon allowing the beat to
guide their bodies when Billy and Greg joined the
fray. At first, they casually danced around the
lovely pair, feeling them out. Tanya made sure to
make and maintain eye contact with Greg, sending
silent messages he was picking up loud and clear.
Billy, meanwhile, noticed Mac seemed a bit more
shy and was looking everywhere but at him.
He could sense the interest but didn't
want to push just yet. The floor, though, soon,
got crowded and they were all pressed a little
closer together . . .
Plus I had to know your name
And leave you with my number
And hoped that you would call
me someday
If you want you can give me
yours too
and if you don't, well I aint
mad at you
We can still be cool . . . '
Greg finally made his move, squeezing
between the two friends and dance exclusively with
Tanya. She grinned brightly as he moved closely
behind her, eventually, resting his hand on her
firm stomach that was barely covered by a white
baby doll tee. They proceeded to get to know each
other on the dance floor while Mac and Billy still
worked towards pairing up. She had been bouncing
to the music when she just noticed Tanya grinding
and moving with Greg. All she could do was
chuckle, knowing, her friend was not shy in the
least about stuff like this.
She then turned her focus, finally, to
Billy, who was now dancing before her. Again, the
two locked in a consuming and telling gaze as the
song blazed on . . .
'I'm not trying to
pressure you
Just can't stop
thinking about you
You ain't even really
got to be my girlfriend
I just want to know
your name and maybe
Sometime, we can hook
up, hang out, just chill . . . '
Neither could believe the effect they were
having with just a look. It was like they were
peering into each other's souls and both feeling
more comfortable with what they were finding. They
finally shared a small smile, that seemed to break
the ice, before starting to move more as a couple.
Mac, instinctively, brought her hands to his
shoulders and continued to flow while Billy
reciprocated the motion, placing his hands on her
hips.
The pair never lost eye contact as they
simply let the music and the moment overtake their
reservations and reasoning . . .
'Maybe we could,
go see a movie, Girl
Or maybe we could
hang out, Girl
Whatever you
wanna do
Just let me know
it's up to you."
By the time the song finished playing out,
both Billy and Mac had totally relaxed in each
others hold. They were now dancing like they'd
known each other forever. His hands were traveling
her slender sides from behind now, while Mac moved
more seductively in his embrace. Her hips were
lightly gyrated as her hands ran through her hair,
down her tummy and finally rested upon his.
And when a momentary silence befell the
floor, before the next tune was brought up, Billy
took the opportunity to introduce himself. He
spoke softly near her ear, causing her to shudder,
lightly, "By the way . . . my name is Billy
Abbott." Mac turned, slightly, in his hold and
looked up into his bright beam. She soon joined
him in that glow as she, softly,
replied," Mackenzie Browning."
Song Credit: Just Friends by Musiq
Chapter 4 . . .
Mac, followed by Billy,
casually made their way off the dance floor as
another tune started up. Greg and Tanya continued
to dance on while the other intrigued duo headed
over to the table the girls had occupied earlier.
Though, the club wasn't very conducive to holding
a conversation, the pair attempted to anyhow.
Before a word was spoken, their connection was
revealed with yet another deep gaze that
reverberated through them. Both were confused as
to how someone they had only just met could evoke
such a strong reaction. Just the simple look they
gave each other speaking volumes. The silence was
comfortable but brief until Mac finally broke it
with a pretty blunt question.
"So . . . Billy, do you make it a habit
of picking up strange girls in clubs?" Billy
remained quiet a moment longer, attempting to read
her. He finally figured out how he could proceed
and replied, playfully, "You shouldn't put
yourself down like that . . . I've met much
stranger women." Now had it been anyone else who
said that to her, Mac would have probably took it
as an insult and let them have it. Yet, when he
added that charming smile and a wink to boot, Mac
melted and joined him in the sweet grin.
"Cute, Billy, cute." Billy then took a fake
bow, "Thank you. I try." She laughed this time,
causing his heart to soar with the sweet sound,
and retorted, "You're a cut up, do you know that?
Are you ever serious?" Billy sobered up some with
that question and, again, stared deeply into her
eyes as he replied, "Yeah . . . when it matters
most." The look he was now giving her, though, was
more intense and seemed to be serious. It caused
Mac to shudder, slightly, and had her again,
wondering how this absolute stranger was having
this affect on her. Billy could see his gaze was
getting to her and it made him smile lightly to
know he was having an equally as strong affect on
her.
She was definitely not like the girls he
was used to hanging out with. She was
beautiful, with her deep brown tresses, matching
peepers, cute button nose and sexy full lips, but
she wasn't self promoting about it. No makeup but
still absolutely radiant. He was very interested
to know more about her. Mac, though, finally had
to take a break from his relentless gaze and
turned her attention to the dance floor and her
buddy, who continued to party up.
On occasion, Mac wished she could be
more like Tanya, willing to take risk and be more
outgoing. She, though, just wasn't used to out of
the ordinary things happening to her. Her whole
existence, until moving to New York, was always
pretty routine and comfortable. Things in the Big
Apple were way more fast paced then she was
accustomed to and a time or two, Mac had
considered going back to what she knew and felt
secure in back in St. Louis. However, a
determination she always displayed in tough
situations, prevented her from giving in. Backing
down from any challenge was just not an option,
which brought her thoughts back to Billy.
She now sat across from this gorgeous
young man and quietly wonder if this was an
opportunity for her to take that long over due
chance. Billy was having similar thoughts about
her. He had been hesitant to get involved with any
girl since his last experience in a 'meaningful'
relationship but with Mac, it just felt like a
viable choice now. He finally decided to see how
receptive she really was to him, by first, reaching
across the table and gently stroking her hand.
Mac turned and refocused on his handsome
face as he put on another small glow and
commented, "From the way you're looking out on the
dance floor, I get the feeling you're up for
another round . . . Shall we?" She returned his
beam but respectfully declined, "Honestly, I'm
not much of a dancer. I was only out there because
Tanya dragged me." I can't tell by the way you
were moving out there . . . you've definitely got
skills," he retorted. Mac blushed, brightly, at
his compliment while he kept the conversation
moving towards it's ultimate destination. "So . .
. how long are you in town for, if you don't mind
me asking?"
She quickly returned, "Till the end of
the week." Mac watched as an, obviously, pleased
response covered his sexy mug and Billy then
boldly proceeded with his next question, "In that
case, is there anyway I can see you again?" A bit
floored, not only at the brashness of the inquiry,
but that he was asking like he was unsure she
would agree. Here was this absolutely hot and
charming guy, seemingly, waiting with baited
breath for plain old her to agree to hang out with
him. Mac decided to play down her awe at the
situation and test his resolve, "Well, that
depends on what you mean by 'see' me." Billy gave
her a half smile, reading what she was doing the
second she spoke. He was again, impressed by her
refusal to act over interested in him like so many
girls before, who became giggling buffoons before
his eyes. He could completely understand her
playing her hand close to her chest but he was not
easily turned away.
Billy finally answered her question,
sincerely, "I mean just spending some time
getting to know each other a little better . . .
you know, maybe hangout and see the sights."
Again, Mac thought of how she might have reacted
had any other guy in the place had come to her
like Billy. She knew she would have shut them down
pretty quick but with him everything just seemed
to click. So this time, she easily replied, "I'm
sure that can be arranged." "Great! How about
tomorrow?" Billy came back immediately. Mac
couldn't help but chuckle at his exuberance as she
replied, "Wasting no time, I see." Billy shined
that gorgeous smile again, and responded, "You
know what they say, no time like the present."
She nodded before adding, "I think I
should run this by Tanya first, since we're here
together but if she's cool with it then I'm up for
it." Billy nodded this time and then turned his
gaze, as did Mac, to a curious voice, "Run what by
me?" She looked up into the eyes of her best
friend, momentarily, before glancing back over at
Billy with a bright smile. He reciprocated the
gesture as Tanya observed the exchange along with
something else equally as telling. Billy was
gently stroking Mac's hand on the table and her buddy
wasn't shying away in the least. That vision
quickly got her mind working and thinking this
might be a good chance for her friend to just let
go for a few days.
Yet before she could act on it, Mac
finally answered her question, "Billy mentioned
hanging out tomorrow and checking out the sights
and . . . " Tanya didn't let her finish her
thought, though, as she enthusiastically replied, "I
think that's a great idea. In fact, Greg and I
were just talking about the same thing, right?"
Greg, to busy touching and kissing on her, agreed
without paying much attention, "Yeah . . . uh uh,
what ever you say, Babe." Tanya nodded and grinned
down at the couple seated before her and finished,
"So it's settled. Tomorrow we all check out what
South Beach has to offer."
They all nodded in agreement with Mac and
Billy sharing another deep and telling gaze . . .
Chapter 5 . . .
After deciding to meet at Mac and
Tanya's hotel the following morning, the four new
acquaintances headed off their separate ways.
Tanya, though, grabbed on to Mac's obvious
interest in Billy and pounced on her about it the
second she stepped out of the shower in her night
clothes.
"So . . . you and Billy, was it, . . . you
guys seemed awfully tight earlier," she started
in. Mac cut her friend a little glare as she tried
to cover her true feelings, which were jumbled at
the time, "Whatever. He was being nice and I tried
to return the favor." Tanya rolled her eyes and
continued on, "Girl, please! I saw how he was
touching you on the dance floor and how you two
were vibin' at the table. Looks like you may have
found your Mr. Right after all." This time Mac
picked up one of her pillows on the bed and threw
it at her friend before attempting to laugh off
her assessment.
"Funny, Tee. We barely know each other's
names." Tanya, though, wasn't convinced and
persisted, "Well, the way you two were looking at
each other and touching . . . " "Knock it off, Ms.
Matchmaker. You know that's not how I operate,"
Mac came back even less convincing then before.
Inside, though, she was aware that what her buddy
was getting at was kind of true. When Billy looked
at or touched her, she felt totally overwhelmed .
. . to think someone she just met could have such
power was a bit frightened. Yet, she hadn't even
thought twice when he began to gently caress her
hand at the table. It felt so natural. Mac,
though, was still confused about the strong pull
he seemed to have on her already.
Tanya knew her buddy was in a state of
denial about what she was feeling for this guy, so
she tried to make it easier for to relax and go
with it. "Look, Mac, just have some fun with this,
OK? We have two hot guys ready to spend time with
us while we're here. Don't put so much pressure on
what it could all mean . . . Hell, in a week,
we'll all be going off our separate ways again and
we'll probably never see each other again." Mac
quietly took in her friends words and nodded at
the notion. "Yeah, I guess you're right. I promise
to try and have some fun and not think so much,
all right?" she finally conceded. Tanya was
heading towards the bath when she smiled and
replied, "That's all I ask." Mac returned her grin
before getting ready to settle in for the night.
Once Tanya was gone, Mac laid across
her bed and thought more about her words. It was
crazy, she knew, but the idea of not seeing Billy
anymore was saddening her more then she expected.
Mac wasn't sure how she would react to leaving him
behind after this but she knew, for now, she
needed to find out as much as she could about
Billy Abbott before they did part ways . . .
Chapter 6 . . .
The following morning, Billy and Greg
were in the girl's hotel lobby waiting for them to
join them and talking casually. Greg finally moved
the topic of conversation towards his friend
interest in Mac. Since he and Billy had hooked
back up in college, Greg had noticed how reluctant
his buddy was to get out and party with girls. And
when Billy finally explained about his experience
with his steady girlfriend just before he came to
town, Greg got it and cut him some slack. Not that
he didn't still try to hook his friend up every
chance he could. Billy, though, was nowhere near
as receptive to those beautiful, young things as
he was to a pretty, but not so showy, brunette he
had just met.
Greg eased into the topic, " So you and
this Mac chick seemed to hit it off last night . .
. " Billy cut his friend a knowing gaze. Billy
knew Greg was just dying to know what he really
thought of Mac but he wasn't ready to reveal the
his feelings yet. One, because they were still all
over the place. This alluring beauty had managed
to do something dozens of hot New York chicks had
not . . . get him thinking of hooking up with
someone again. He, though, still couldn't shake
his prior experiences from his thoughts. He had
been burned one time too many by the supposed most
important women in his life. He wasn't gun ho
about setting himself up for that kind of hurt
again. So with a light sigh, Billy finally replied
plainly, "She's a nice girl, and I think it would
be cool to hang out with someone like her. So
let's just leave it at that . . . for now."
Greg knew that tone and quickly backed
off, not wanting to ruin the day before it ever
got started, "Cool." Just as they finished their
little chat, Mac and Tanya came into view. Both
guys caught their breath as the lovely ladies
glided towards them. Tanya was sporting a light
pink velour shorts outfit. The short sleeved
hooded jacket that matched was slightly unzipped
showing off her abundant cleavage in a white crop
top underneath. Meanwhile, Mac went with a more
conservative but equally as attractive outfit. She
dawned a pair of blue jean skorts and a white off
the shoulder ruffled peasant top. Her hair was in
a French braid and her neck adorned a small cross
necklace.
When the duo finally made it over to
them, the guys remained in a quiet state of
appreciation. Tanya, though, quickly changed that
by being her boisterous self, "Hey guys. Cat got
your tongues?" Greg quickly obliged, "Damn, you
look hot." Tanya grinned brighter as she retorted,
"Thanks. I try." He looked her over again while
Billy finally found his voice and commented on
Mac's appearance, with a bit more tact then his
friend. "You look great too, Mac." She smiled
sweetly at him, "Thank you. You look pretty good
yourself." He really did in his blue jean shorts
and crisp white tee shirt, an ensemble that caused
Mac to added, jokingly, " You know, people who
don't know us might think we planned this." She
pointed to his outfit and then her own. Billy
grinned brilliantly as he retorted, "Now who's
cutting up?"
The two then shared a hearty laugh as
their friends watched on. They knew the pair had
connected from the first moment but neither was
ready to take the plunge so they continued to
observe and wait for them to figure it out. "Are
we ready?" chimed in Tanya again, breaking up the
jovial moment between the pair. Mac nodded,
"Whenever you guys are." "Let's do it then,"
replied Greg as he took Tanya by the hand and
began to walk towards the door. Mac and Billy
followed suit, with him guiding her out with his
hand at the small of her back.
Again, the simple action of him touching
her causing her to tremble lightly. They then all
headed out for a street carnival that they heard
about when they arrived.
Chapter 7 . . .
Once the quartet pulled into their
final destination and unloaded from the girl's
convertible, they were immediately engulfed by a
heard of other twenty-something spring breakers.
The crowd flowed like a river towards the many
attractions set up along the street as well as the
nearby beach. The friends sights soon came upon
the carnival festivities and all were pretty
impressed with the set up.
It wasn't some little make shift
affair but an actual fair setting. There were
games, attractions, like free concerts and shows,
and food booths, not to mention a nice variety of
rides, including a large ferries wheel overlooking
the whole scene. Mac, who had only recently gotten
used to the grandeur of New York, was the most
entranced with the energy of the festivities. She
smiled lightly at the beautiful beach back drop to
the activities and the atmosphere it encouraged.
Her thoughts, briefly, floating back to simpler
times when she and her friends would go to the
state fair back home. Billy caught her in her
moment of reflection and her sweet innocent smile
and responded in kind. He, finally, admitting to
himself how much even a simple grin from her
affected him.
The foursome had been standing at the
entrance of the carnival for some time with
people steadily flowing past them when, like
always, Tanya prodded them along. "Well, guys, are
we just going to stand here looking at it or are
we going to get our fun on?" Then without waiting
for a response, she linked her arm with her buddy
and then Greg and started tugging them towards the
action. Mac grinned brightly at her friend as she
allowed her to pull her along. Then instinctively,
before they could get to far ahead, Mac reached
out and snagged Billy's hand, receiving a powerful
but tender jolt from the contact. The two, again,
locked gazes and he squeezed her hand lightly
before following along side the others and into
the hub of the excitement . . .
By the time afternoon finally rolled
around, the gang had been through the whole
carnival, seeing and experiencing just about all
it had to offer from the attractions to some of
the rides and the food. They had goofed off with
some of the games too but as the day began to wind
down, Billy and Greg came across a game both
claimed to be the best at and promptly set out to
prove their point. Mac and Tanya watched in quiet
amusement as the two men went back and forth at
the dart throwing booth, spending ridiculous sums
of money to win a cheesy prize.
In the end, Billy proved to be the
better shot winning a bright blue teddy bear
dressed in a lather jacket and sunglasses, which
he immediately gave to Mac. She and Tanya fussed
over the cute little fuzz ball, causing Greg, who
could only manage to win a dinky pink and white
penguin, to shell out a few more bucks and
purchase Tanya a large purple T rex. Billy, of
course, harassed his friend relentlessly about his
pathetic skills and about having to buy Tee the
stuff animal. Tanya, though, came to Greg's
defense, kissing the dino and then him before
responding, "Don't listen to him, baby, I still
love my prize." "Yeah?" Greg returned. "Yeah . . .
he's a man eater just like me," she shot back
with a blazing grin before planting another
lingering kiss on his lips.
Mac blushed and smiled at her friend's
behavior while Billy quieted down and glanced
Mac's way, momentarily. She was holding on tightly
to the bear he had won for her and that made him
feel good. He really felt like she was something
special and he wanted so much to know more. As
they all strolled down the still crowded area,
their thoughts had turned to heading out and
resting up for the night cap later, but before
they could get all the way out, Mac had one more
thing she wanted to do before. She paused he step
causing everyone else to do the same and put out a
final suggestion.
"I wanted to do on more thing and then we
can go, if that's cool?" "What is it?" asked her
buddy who was wrapped around Greg, who was now
holding her dinosaur. Mac glanced over her
shoulder at the ferries wheel that loomed over the
event. Billy followed her eyes and smiled when he
realized where she wanted to go. He had always
enjoyed that particular ride and was glad to see
she shared his view. "The ferries wheel," he said
softly. She nodded, "I love those and I always
save it for last when I go to fairs and stuff."
They all stared over at the enormous contraption
and then back at Mac who prompted, "So are you
guys up for one more ride?" Billy was the first to
reply, "I'm game. Greg . . . Tanya?" "What the
hell," Greg finally replied and Tanya signed on as
well. "All right, let's get to it," was Mac's
bubbly response as she lead the group over to the
not so busy ride.
They were all soon loaded on, Greg and
Tanya in one of the caged seats and Billy and Mac
in the other. They then started their ascent in
the clear bright sky. Mac and Billy sat in virtual
silence at the beginning of the ride, both content
to just take in the picturesque scene below them.
The beautiful Miami scenery was breathtaking,
especially from so far up and was easy to get lost
in. Billy, though, eventually broke the silence
with a question that was completely out of the
blue but fitting to their situation.
"Do you believe in destiny?" he asked
quietly, bringing Mac's attention from her side of
the ride to him. He thought maybe she'd be put off
by his frank inquiry yet she never flinched as she
retorted, "Actually, I'm not sure what I believe.
My mother is a stark believer in fate and destiny.
She thinks everything and everyone had a path they
must travel that's already set. I'm not sure I can
buy into that, though, the idea is quite
tempting." "I hear you. I was sort of the same way
. . . " Billy started but Mac interrupted. "Was?"
He gave her that killer grin, once more, before
replying, "Yeah but after meeting you here, I have
to wonder . . . don't you think it's odd this
instant repoire we share? It's like we've known
each other for years yet we've only just met." Mac
nodded, cautiously proceeding with the topic at
hand, "Yeah, it is a little strange that we seem
to be drawn to each other just like that."
Billy just nodded to her words this
time as they both, once again, held each other's
gaze. Then just as they had spoke of, the pair
began to gravitate towards each other with little
thought. Mac caught a glimpse of his full sexy
lips and he did likewise with her. They were
inches from making their first physical connection
when the door to their carriage opened and their
friends stood at the door waiting on them. It
took them both a second to regain themselves and
the duo continued to think of what had nearly
happened as they all, eventually, headed back for
the car.
As they cruised back towards the
hotel to rest up and change for the evening, the
ride was pretty quiet with the exception of the
music blaring. Tanya and Mac occupied the front
seats while the guys took up the rear. Mac looked
out the passenger side and let her mind continue
to analyze the previous events with Billy. She
nearly kissed him . . . this guy she had known
little more then a day. Then she thought, why did
it feel like she had known him all her life? He
just seemed to fit. Her mind then flipped again,
but what if this was all her? What if this was
just a spring break fling to him? As sweet as his
words sounded on the ferries wheel, could it have
just been a line? She just wasn't willing to put
her feelings on the line unless she was sure and
right now she was anything but that.
Meanwhile, Billy was having the same
thoughts and, like Mac, he wanted to know if this
was real or just the moment taking control. He
needed more proof before he, too, could let go
completely . . .
Chapter 8A . . .
Mac, as well as Billy, were still
uncertain about what was really going on between
them. Both aware, though, the only way to know for
sure was to spend more time together. Neither was
willing to concede a thing until they were
positive the other was on the same page.
Luckily, it didn't take long for
them to discover just how truly in tune they were
with each other. After having such a great time
the day before, the foursome got together the
following day and, under Greg's suggestion, agreed
to try parasailing. Mac wasn't sure how she, the
least adventurous of them all, allowed herself to
be talked into something so daring. Her gaze then
trailed over to a very handsome Billy sitting at
her side on the speeding boat and knew his
presence was a big reason for her compliance. The
boat, manned by Greg, jetted out to open space and
finally came to a halt in the middle of the ocean.
Billy and his friend then went on
to explain to the girls how everything worked.
They had both done it numerous times and gave
detailed instructions on what the activity
entailed. However, the more they talked about it,
the more edgy Mac became. The thought of floating
in air behind a speeding boat was not an enticing
one for her. The others, though, were stoked and
talking about who would go first when Mac finally
spoke up. Quietly, she stated, "Look, guys, I
don't think I'm up for this . . . " she glanced
over at the chute and harness nervously before
concluding her thought, "this just isn't my sort
of thing." Tanya quickly interceded, chastising her
buddy, lightly, "What happened to going with the
flow and just having some fun, huh?" Mac rolled
her eyes as she dryly returned, "Maybe risking
life and limb is not my idea of fun, Tee."
Tanya sighed heavily as she glanced over
at an interested Billy and Greg. The one thing
that always annoyed her about her good friend was
her inclination to always play things safe. On
more then one occasion she recalled having to
literally force Mac do try something before she'd
get into it, including the dance she initiated
that got Billy and her together. She now had this
hot guy sweating her and it was all because she
took a chance. Tanya was determined not to let her
miss another opportunity being so damn cautious.
So in a firm, almost motherly tone, she went back
at her friend, rationally, "Mackenzie, do you
really think if this was that dangerous we all
would be preparing to do it? It's something lots
of people do everyday . . . it's fun and
different. Don't be a wet blanket." Mac was quiet
this time, contemplating what her friend had just
said. It was very rare when Tanya used her full
name and when she did and used that matter of
fact tone with her, she always made Mac fell like
a stick in the mud.
This time, however, she still wasn't
convinced this was the best idea. Mac's gaze then
trailed from Tee to the other occupants of the
boat. Greg's attention had long since been turned
to Tanya and her maroon two piece thong swimsuit.
Billy though remained interested, his vibrant blue
eyes exposing his sense of curiosity at how this
would all turn out. Mac could almost sense, just
from that look, him urging her on and as strange
as it sounded, she didn't want to disappoint him.
She had known Tanya for years, yet when it was all
said and done, it was the gorgeous stranger she
had only met a few days ago that was causing her
to relent a bit. It was crazy, in her head, to
feel this way but in every other part of her, she
didn't want to do anything to dim those bright
eyes. So finally, she sighed and proceeded to give
in, some.
She soon turned back to Tanya and
compromised, "All right, how about this, I'll see
how everyone else does and if it goes OK, I'll
give it a try. Fair enough?" Knowing she would
give in eventually, Tanya grinned happily as she
reached out and gave her friend a light squeeze
and replied, "Fair enough."
Once the two friends separated, the
were joined by the guys. "OK, now that we have
that settled . . . who's going first?" asked Greg
while now caressing the exposed flesh of Tanya's
back. Billy, who was standing behind Mac, was
about to volunteer when Tanya beat him to it. She
enthusiastically offered to take the plunge first.
"Suit me up." Everyone appreciated her excitement
and Greg lead her over to the harness and chute
and began securing her in the device. While he was
doing that and explaining a few last minute
details to her, Billy continued to quietly study
Mac from behind. He could tell she was still a bit
nervous about this whole thing, so he attempted to
soothe her concerns, some. Gently, he slid his
hands over her curvy, cut off jean clad hips,
causing that familiar jolt of energy to shoot
through them both again. Mac inhaled sharply at
his touch but didn't retreat from his hold, making
Billy more confident in what he did next. He
leaned in closer to her and whispered near her
ear, "It'll be fun . . . trust me." She shuddered
at the intimacy of the moment before slightly
turning in his hold and looking up into his
glowing face. Mac returned the beam, then without
out a thought, she replied, "I do."
That brief exchange pushing them closer
to the answers they sought . . . was this was
just a moment in time or something that was
lasting between them?
Greg soon finished prepping Tanya and
started the boat up again, sending her up into the
clear blue sky. As she contently gazed around and
below herself, Mac watched her friend in quiet,
while sitting at the back of the boat. Again, she
wished she could just be as bold sometimes. Her
thoughts, though, were interrupted by Billy's
sweet husky voice, once more, "Hey . . . " She
turned and gave her attention to him before he
continued, "You know, you really don't have to do
this if you don't want to. It's no biggie." She
gave him another small smile, appreciating his
continuing effort to make her feel comfortable.
Then in a more sure tone of her own, Mac finally
replied, "I know but I don't think it will hurt me
to try . . . after you, of course." Billy's grin
widened at her added levity, "Of course."
The pair then turned their focus back
to Tanya and silently watched her soar for a
while. Finally, though, she was brought back in
and Billy prepared for his turn while Tanya
described the view and feeling of being up there.
Mac knew this was just her way of trying to entice
her further but what Tee didn't know was after
Billy's continued encouragement, she was that much
more determined to give this new experience a try.
Billy took his turn like a pro and shortly after
he returned to the boat, Mac was next up. She took
in a deep breath and went over to let Billy get
her ready. He, though, was a having a few problems
doing just that, as his hands kept grazing the
soft exposed skin of her arms, stomach and legs
as her assisted her in putting on the harness and
chute.
Finally, they got her set up but before
he gave Greg the word, Billy took one of her hands
in his, gave her another killer grin and softly
reiterated, "I promise you'll enjoy it. It's
almost like being on the ferris wheel . . . only
better." Mac, again, reciprocated his glow and
squeezed his hand lightly before anxiously,
concluding, "I guess I'll find out." He gave her a
quick wink and released her as he gave Greg the
signal to go. Slowly, Mac made her ascent with her
eyes closed, at first. But before she could get
too far she heard Tanya's big mouth over even the
boat, "Open your eyes, Chicken! The view is
awesome." Mac smirked as she cautiously began
opening her eyes. By the time she reached the
zenith of her ride she was taking in the entire
scene, much like her friend had earlier. The view
was everything she said it was and more. It was
amazing seeing everything from above, from the
other people to the skyline and the birds in the
sky. Mac was engrossed by and more and more,
happy she decided to do this.
However, that joy would be short lived
and replaced by a moment of terror and then
realization . . .
Chapter 8B . . .
As she floated, comfortably,
through the air, Billy gazed upon her exclusively.
He, too, was having a tough time trying to figure
out how someone he had just met was having such a
profound affect on him. Anything she did and how
she felt touched him like nothing else had. Yet,
before he could delve further into those thoughts,
Tanya joined him and immediately began to sound off
on what she was observing between the pair.
"So . . . you really got it bad for
my girl, huh?" she put out there bluntly. Billy
broke his gaze away from Mac long enough to
respond, "What makes you think that?" "Please
Billy, it's beyond obvious that you are into her
and believe me the feeling is mutual," she
continued forwardly. Billy held her look for a
long moment, knowing she was right about his
feeling for Mac but still not convinced she was
there as well. He finally gave Tanya a sample of
that mind blowing glow as he returned, "She's
great but things are a bit more complicated, from
my point of view. I've had bad experiences, one in
particular, and I'm not sure I'm willing to risk
myself again." Tanya came right back, "Mac isn't
like anyone you've ever been around, though. That
sweet, caring woman you are seeing now is who she
is all the time. There is absolutely no risk in
being a part of her life. Trust me."
Billy nodded at her assessment, not
really needing to be sold on Mac as a person. He
could just feel how real she was. His hesitation
was more about his own past and not wanting to
repeat it, as far as relationship wise. As much as
he felt for her, which was a lot, he just needed
more assurance that this would work out. " I hear
everything you are saying but I still . . . "
Billy never got finish his thought, however, as
Mac caught both his and Tanya's attention with a
chilling screech. The pair looked up just in time
to see, a possible wind gust, whip the chute
holding Mac up around taking a horrified Mac with
it. She was flailing around, franticly, while
Tanya stood petrified watching her buddy freak
out. Panic, quickly set in for Billy, as well, but
he soon recomposed himself and assessed the
situation. He finally managed to get a still
planted Tanya to go tell Greg what was happening
and then Billy turned and began trying to pull Mac
back in. It was really hard with Mac still
struggling and the more he tried to remain calm
outside, was the more scared he was inside. The
thought of something happening to her frightening
him like nothing before.
Greg soon joined his friend, having
Tanya steer the boat while he helped . Together,
he and Billy pulled a terrified Mac to safety. She
had barely touched the deck when Billy immediately
engulfed the teary eyed and trembling beauty in
his arms and held on with everything in him. She
was barely returning the hold, as she was still in
shock. Greg had quickly gone back to relieve Tanya
and stop the boat once Mac was securely on the
board. When he came back to her side, he and Tanya
watched in silence, the continued embrace, Billy
and Mac shared. He was attempting to calm a
distraught and, lightly, sobbing Mac. Her tears
were light but no less heart wrenching to Billy,
who quietly started talking to her, trying to
soothe her more.
"You're Ok. You're Ok . . . I will
never let anything happen to you . . . never," he
whispered while continuing to hold her tightly. He
said those words with such conviction and without
hesitation, that it caused Mac to, for the first
time, return his hold as tenaciously. His words
instantly resonated with her and made her feel
more secure then she had felt with anyone, outside
of her mother. Everything she was feeling about
him at that moment, telling her this thing between
them had just been more defined.
Billy, too, was lost in this instance,
relaxing in her arms, somewhat, and finally
accepting that this was no fluke and that Mac
might just be the exception to what he had
experienced in the past. Both, after what had just
happened, were now open and ready to findout.
Chapter 9A . . .
Over the rest of their stay in Miami,
Billy and Mac used the time to get better
acquainted. Their friends, sensing the growing bond
between them, backed off and gave them space to do
just that. What the couple soon found was that
they had great deal in common. For one, they both
were attending school in New York, Mac at Columbia
and Billy at NYU and after that fact came to
light, the pair realized they also frequented some
of the same haunts in the Big Apple yet had never
crossed paths. Then there were some of the
smaller but still important similarities, like them
enjoying a lot of the same music, both rathering
to hangout with a few friends as opposed to
partying, and each feeling like family, for the
most part, was what was most important.
However, both had an exception to that
last belief. They began to talk on a bit more
personal level about their home lives and
families, a bit. Billy started by talking about
how close he was to his father, who raised him
basically on his own, and his older brother, who was
his closest confident. His face, though, began to
betray just the opposite when he spoke of his
mother. He told of the rocky relationship between
the two that continued even to this day. Though,
he didn't go into great detail, right then, he did
tell of how his mother only seemed to involve
herself in his life when it was convenient to her.
That lack of a stable mother figure in his life
had then set forth a chain reaction that now
affected any relationship he had with women. Mac
was a bit stunned at his revelation about girl
troubles, unable to imagine some one so handsome,
sweet, and charismatic having any problem keeping
a woman's interest. Yet, when he vaguely told of
one girl, in particular, he thought he was falling
for betraying him, it hit her how much of a toll
it had taken on him, his demeanor instantly
tensing up at the mere mention. This caused Mac to
not press further, for now, instead stepping up
and telling some of her own life story.
She started first by explain the tight
relationship she shared with her own mother, a
flower child in her own right. They were more like
best friends then mother and daughter, her mom
having had her when she herself was barely out of
her teens. The two had practically grown up
together solidifying their bond. However, she then
turned her somber thoughts to the other parent she
had never known. Mac couldn't understand why he
left and often wondered if she was the reason. Her
mom had often tried to dispel that notion but
when she refused to really talk of the man Mac
thought she was only trying to spare her feelings.
Billy listened, intently, as she had
done with him, and protectively thought to
himself, how stupid this guy was if that was why
he wasn't around. From what Billy had seen and already
gotten to know of Mac, he couldn't fathom anyone
not wanting such a sweet, loving person in their
life. Yet, the thing that truly caught them both
up and bonded them that much closer during their
talks was Mac's familiar revelation of how one
defective parent had colored her entire view on
the opposite sex. Mac had long since reasoned if
she couldn't depend on and trust the man that gave
her life then how was she to do the same with a
complete stranger.
It was another huge moment of realization
for the duo. Two people, who only just met, shared
so many similarities that it couldn't be a fluke.
That sentiment of fate and destiny they had
discussed in the ferris wheel was resurfacing and
holding more credibility for both now. The
overwhelming feelings they shared upon meeting
added to what Mac's mother had told her before . .
. when it's right, you will just know, and in
that moment of unified awareness, nothing had ever
felt so right for either of them . . .
Chapter 9 . . .
Again, a lot was becoming clearer
for the couple as far as the undeniable draw they
continued to have to each other. Neither, however
was completely convinced that this thing, they
were still weary of labeling, was strong enough to
endure outside of South Beach. Here they had no
distractions and plenty of time to focus in on
each other but back in New York, prior commitments
and pressures awaited to add extra strain to what
they were trying to build.
Billy, however, took it upon himself to
make a move to determine if they both wanted it to
work. He promptly arranged for them to spend their
last night in Florida together sharing a late
dinner and having a candid discussion about what
came next for them or even if there was a them.
Reservations were made at a casual yet quite
elegant beachside restaurant and once they
arrived, Billy knew by the look of complete joy on
Mac's radiant face, he had made the right choice
for setting.
The pair quietly stood at the entry way
of the quaint outdoor bistro and gazed over the
truly majestic scene before them with great
appreciation. As they both continued to survey the
intimate surroundings, both found themselves,
doing things to the other, without a thought.
Billy, blindly, began to caress the silky material
of Mac's stylish knee length peach floral wrap
around dress, while Mac, in return, rested her
head against his taut chest covered in a gorgeous
deep blue Ralph Lauren golf shirt and rested her
arm around his khaki clad waist. Both silently
revealed in the other's embrace and took in all
the sights and sounds of the lovely setting. From
the beautiful, low key set up the small tables for
two, each complete with a candle and small vase of
white lilies in the center, to the natural beauty
that accented the romantic atmosphere. The gentle
whipping of the breeze around them and soft sounds
of music and the lapping waves of the nearby ocean
already making the evening memorable.
As breathtaking as the scene was
and as much as they wouldn't have minded standing
there all night observing it, the waiter finally
came and showed them to their table, which was
right off the lovely little dance area set between
two sections of tables. The soft ballads that
continued to play from an unseen sound system
completed the magnificent evening that had only
just begun for the pair.
Once the waiter took their drink orders
and left them with menus, they soon turned their
focus to each other. Billy gave a glowing Mac a
gentle smile of his own as he dashingly inquired,
"So, do you like?" her eyes brightened at his
husky tone and she playfully retorted, "Beautiful
romantic setting with sweet handsome guy . . .
what do you think?" He grinned brighter and
blushed, a little, at her compliment, which didn't
go unnoticed by Mac. "Well, that has to be a first
for me," she lightly continued. Billy softly
questioned, "What?" "Making a guy blush," she
finished with a luminating grin of her own. Billy
shook his head while still smiling and jovially
replied, "I must be rubbing off on you . . . cut
it out." The two then shared a hearty laugh before
being interrupted by the waiter ready to take
their orders. After he had and left once more, the
pair got quiet again. Billy studied Mac closely as
she did the same. They both knew there was so much
still up in the air that needed to be decided
before they headed back to NY. Yet, neither was
in a rush to get to it as the moment was guiding
them right now.
As if on cue a lovely, tender song
began to roll off the system, prompting both to
react. Billy gave her another killer glow before
slowly rising from his seat across from her and
holding out a hand to her. She never waited for
him to ask her to join him as Mac, too, was
already coming to her feet and taking his
outstretched hand. The couple then glided onto the
dance floor occupied by a few other couples
already and locked in on each other, exclusively,
as the first verse came down . . .
'Lying alone in my room, don't
know what I'm gonna do
Trying to figure out if this
is it this time
Just can't stop thinking
about the way you make me feel inside
I just can't get you off my
mind, no matter how hard I try . . . '
Billy's hand, again, found their way to
the small of her back and tenderly massaged there
for a while before retresting to her curvy hips
and remaining there. Mac, in the meantime, had
moved her hands slowly up his forearms, over his
shoulders and finally locked them behind his neck.
The pair then simply held each other's unwavering
gaze, allowing their eyes and the words to the song
to communicate everything they knew was inside of
them both . . .
'Could you be the one for
me, could we dance the night away
I wanna give you
everything, though, I don't have much
Could you fall in love
with me, could you love me the rest
of my life
Could you forever be
the one for me this time . . . '
Feeling of never being sure they would find
this with anyone, clouded both their minds.
However, now as they tightened their hold, they
became more intrigued by the possibility of having
discover the one they were meant to be with. Their
embrace was becoming more intimate as Mac cuddled
closer to Billy, resting her head on his chest and
inhaling his clean scent. Billy, meanwhile, was
tracking his hands over her entire frame now as he
also nuzzled into the crock of her neck and let
out a sigh of total realization in their hug. Mac
shuddered at the warmth of his breath there and
then let out a breath of her own, knowing this
felt too perfect to be anything but right . . .
'I walk around in a daze, the
ice is melting from my heart
Can I ever know if you feel the
same
Are you the sunshine begging
me, come in from the rain
Or have you come into my life
To turn around and take your
love away . . . '
As though reading each other's
thoughts, both Billy and Mac soon sought and
reclaimed the other's gaze and shared a simple
grin that spoke volumes. They were obviously in
the same place now and as they gently rested their
foreheads together, they were willing to let that
realization stand on it's own for the moment. The
dance taking precedents over any words they could
utter . . .
'When I look into your eyes,
(Oh, oh, oh, oh)
They tell me that you're
mine, but I keep saying to myself
Could you be the one for
me, could we dance the night away
I wanna give yo everything,
though, I don't have much
Could you fall in love
with me
Could you love me the rest
of my life
Could you forever be the
one for me this time
Could you forever be
the one for me
This time.'
Soon after the song ended, they returned to
their table, hand in hand, and remained in a
silent but comfortable state of knowing. Billy
held onto one of her hands and lightly massaged
it, while the pair maintained a telling gaze and
sweet glow, understanding the conversation they
would soon have would change everything for them.
They, however, unanimously decided to hold off on
that talk until they could be completely alone,
instead sharing more light banter until after they
finished their meal. Once they did and paid the
check, Billy suggested a walk on the beach.
Mac agreed and the two were off,
strolling down the shoreline as the sun began it's
descent into the horizon. Mac was contently
carrying her heeled sandals in her hand, allowing
her toes to mingle in the slightly damp sand while
Billy had his arm draped over one of her shoulders
and his focus intently on her as she took in the
gorgeous sunset. He basked in her sweet innocent
radiance which gave him all the resolve he needed
to start this important conversation with her.
As the bright sky began to dim, Billy
paused his progress, causing Mac to do the same.
She glanced over and up at him and gave a
quizzical look that he responded to with another
breath taking smile. He then took both her hands
in his and held her sights as he spoke to her
passionately and sincerely, "Mac . . . I don't
want to lose this." Mac was a bit put off not at
the sentiment but the abruptness of his
proclamation. She shared his view but needed to
know what he thought this was before she replied.
"What do you think this is?" she retorted softly.
Billy relinquished one of her hands and gently
began caressing her cheek with his free hand as he
confidently replied, "I think you know better then
me . . . I have never felt this way about anyone,
especially someone I just met. It seems so unreal
but looking in your eyes and just being with you
tells me it's by far the most real thing I've ever
experienced in my life."
Mac was, again, blown away by his words
and the realization behind them. She was
definitely in the same place. So as his soft
fingertips continued to tenderly rub her face, she
closed her eyes and reacted to his touch as she
replied, "I don't want to lose it either, Billy."
Her eyes then fluttered open again to capture his
relieved and beaming smile. She reciprocated but
also felt the need to add, "But I do need you to
understand, I have never experienced this feeling
with anyone either or been in a true relationship
so I don't know a lot about what it entails." Billy
stopped her right there, not wanting to
overanalyze things right now. "Hey . . . we'll
find our way through together, OK?" he returned
sweetly. Mac nodded, "All right."
The two then turned and continued their
stroll a few steps further before finally taking a
seat in the sand and staring up at the , now,
night time sky. The stars shone brightly in the
pitch black night and both became enraptured in
the simple moment. Mac's head, eventually,
migrated towards Billy's shoulder and rested
there, causing them both to relax more and
continue to take in the flawless beauty around
them.
It wasn't long, though, before Mac had a
thought. Tanya's words about taking chances were
now echoing in her mind for some reason. Mac
decided this time to take her friends advice
without prodding. So in one of her boldest moves
to date, Mac lifted her head from Billy's
shoulder, garnering his attention. She then
reached out and caressed his jaw briefly before
leaning in and engaging him in what started as a
sweet simple kiss. However, the moment their lips
connected both became aware simple would never
describe their exchanges.
Their soft full lips danced intensely,
leaving them wanting nothing more then to stay
like this forever. Finally, though, the pair came
up for air, first sharing a look of amazement at
the feelings the kiss had evoked and then gentle
smiles between them, acknowledging they had found
something truly special in each other.
Song Credit: Could by Brian McKnight
Chapter 10 . . .
"So what do you think?" asked an
anxious Mac. Billy gazed down at the beautiful
creature draped across his chest, as they both lay
in the middle of her dorm room floor, watching a
movie. The question had caught him a little off
guard and quickly had him think back over the
things that happened over the past few months to
get them to this point. After the pair returned to
New York, they immediately grew that much closer
and were beyond happy to be together. The duo
spent as much time together as possible in between
school and other obligations. It took a great
effort, at times, but both found the extra work
only strengthen their bond.
The schedule they managed to forge
was faring well, as the couple took turns
commuting between each other's campuses, though,
mostly only on the weekends and talked on the
phone constantly. It was a refreshing experience
for both and they spent the time they had
together wisely, checking out the culture of New
York, not to mention the occasional hot spot. The
thing that they truly believed made their union
solid, though, was that they were always straight
with each other about everything and taking time
out, at least, once a week to just be together
with no outside distractions.
Which was what they found themselves
in the midst of at the moment. Billy had suggested
they order in and hang around Mac's dorm, since
Tanya was out for the night, and catch a movie.
Mac eagerly agreed, cherishing anytime they spent
alone. Though, their relationship had not yet
reached the physical level, something both felt
could wait until they stabilized their situation a
bit more, the times when it was just them were
always most fulfilling to both. This 'date night'
however was a little different and more somber, as
it was their last before finals. The pair had been
dreading that benchmark for some time, not only
because of the tests but what came after.
Once all the testing was done,
everyone would be packing up and heading home for
the summer, including them. Neither was looking
forward to being apart and had skirted around that
issue as long as possible. It had, though, been on
both their minds a lot. Yet, whereas, Billy had all
but resigned himself to the fact the would have to
play phone tag and email each other because of his
prior engagement in Genoa City, primarily getting
an overall view of his family's business workings,
Mac had been doing some thinking of her own. She
knew of his commitment to his family and, after
her latest chat with her mother, she decided to
run an idea by Billy she hoped he would consider.
"So are you going to answer me?"
she persisted with nerves getting edgy. She knew it
was kind of out of the blue but she thought with a
little tweaking of his itenary, they could swing
it and at least have a little free time together
this summer. It just made sense to her since, if
they were truly to be a couple this had to happen
eventually . . . why not now? Billy still hadn't
replied but did began to rise from the floor,
bringing Mac with him. Once they both ended up in
a sitting position on the fluffily carpeted floor,
he studied her curious face for a brief moment
longer and then finally found his voice and
replied, "You want me to go back to St. Louis with
you and meet your mother?" Mac nodded, glad he was
at least speaking now. "That's a big step, " he
quietly concluded.
Mac, for some reason, couldn't read
this particular look on his face and wonder what
it was all about. He seemed to be intrigued yet
unsure and she immediately wondered, out loud, if
she had pushed too far too soon. She sat up a bit
more, putting some space between them as she
softly, returned, "Look, Billy, I didn't mean to
just spring this on you and if you're not up to
it, I understand. I just thought . . . " She was
really afraid she might have freaked him out with
the whole 'meeting the parent' thing. Billy,
though, quickly laid those concerns to rest,
placing a fingertip over her lips to quiet her and
then tenderly answered, "It's not that I'm not up
to it . . . it's just, you really want me to meet
your mother?"
This time, Mac picked up on his tone that
conveyed, vague disbelief at her request. It was
almost as if he was insecure about her wanting him
to meet her mom. She tried to be as soothing as
possible, when she gently returned, "Yeah . . . of
course I do." She then reached out and cupped his
face in her hands and stared earnestly into his,
now, apprehensive blue pools before continuing,
"My mom has always been the biggest part of my
life and now there's you. I think it's time the
two most important people in my world meet, don't
you?"
Billy's nervous stare was replaced,
slowly, by a soft glow as he reveled in her touch
as well as her words. To not only know but feel
how much she felt for him with just her look ,
touched him like nothing else. She wanted him in
every aspect of her life and, for the first time,
he was almost ready to conceded he felt the same
way. first, though, he needed a little reassurance
from her on this possible trip. He turned his face
and placed a soft kiss in the center of each of
her hands before responding, "Yeah, but as close
as you two are, what if she doesn't like me?" Mac
gave him a sexy smirk of her own, knowing her
mother was just as eager to meet Billy as she was
about it. Then with a straight face but playful
tone she replied, "Then you're history." Billy
immediately broke into that trademark grin and
leaned in for a quick peck before coming back,
"Just like that, huh? I guess I better put my best
foot forward then." She laughed with him before
concluding, with a more serious demeanor, "She'll
adore you because I do . . . so, are we going to
St. Louis after we blow this joint?"
Again, Billy's beam shined bright.
There was no way he would deny her or himself this
opportunity. He'd just let Jack and his dad know
he'd be coming in a week late. "Yeah, you got
yourself a date . . . " He then paused briefly as
she pulled him into a deep hug. A thought of his
own coming to mind, he pulled back, some, and
added, "under one condition." Mac surveyed his
face again and asked for the stipulation, "Which
is?" "That after we go to your place, you come
back with me to mine," he finished happily. She
couldn't hold back her smile, not expecting, but
relishing the invitation, "Seriously?" He nodded,
"I want you to meet my family, too. Honestly, I
have talked you up so much to Jack, he'd kill me
if he didn't get to meet you." Again, with a quip,
Mac retorted, "No pressure there." This time
Billy tickled her until she finally gave him the
answer he wanted, "Yes. Let's do it . . . St.
Louis then Genoa City, here we come!"
Billy gathered her back into his hold,
pulling her up on his lap, and with their faces
barely an inch apart, he sweetly concluded, "It's
going to be great." Mac continued to beam, as
their lips migrated towards each other, and
faintly finished just before they connected,
"Definitely." The two then proceeded to enjoy the
rest of the night just being together, unaware of
all that was about to befall them once they left
New York.