What's up all you Kelso and Jackie fans. Here's another chapter, so I hope you enjoy. Now I have to warn you, this chapter is really, really long. Keep reading though, it will be worth it. Also, I worked real hard on this chapter, so when you are done, can you please review it and tell me what you thought. It would make me so happy. Anyway, I hope you enjoy the chapter.

Chapter 4 Following in His Brother's Footsteps

August 27, 1980

"How we survived that … I'll never know" Kelso said as the two reflected on the moment. He looked at her to find and answer. All he found was a beautiful woman looking back at him. She had not lost any of her beauty since they first started dating; if anything it had actually increased. He was glad things worked out the way they did, but he had no idea how it even worked out between the two. There were so many chances for them to say goodbye to the relationship forever and at times it seemed like it was really over … but it was never really over.

"You have to understand something Michael" Jackie started. "You were my first boyfriend … and when you cheated on me, it opened my eyes. That a man couldn't be perfect all the time … and I was trying to find a man like that, but there is no one like that. At least you come pretty close though."

"Uh … thanks Jackie … you know, that really was an ordeal we went through. It's kind of saddening when you think about it. I'd rather talk about something a bit less saddening."

"Like what?" Jackie was all ears. She was hoping that she didn't upset him about the comment she made; she just wanted to prove a point."

"Remember how I got my sensitive right eye? The one that always seems to get hurt."

"Oh no …" Jackie remembered the story perfectly. It wasn't really her fault, but she was partly responsible and Jackie didn't like to think about it.

"C'mon, it wasn't your fault Jackie … it was my choice."

August 7, 1977

It had been a couple of months since that night at Jackie's Ski Cabin. The two had reconciled and everything seemed to be going along just fine. However, football season was coming around, and Jackie began to feel a certain yearning that she always seemed to feel at this time of year. She was a cheerleader … and cheerleaders dated football players. Her boyfriend Michael was not a football player. This is where the trouble began. Jackie wasn't about to give up the man of her dreams just because he didn't play football, but she secretly wanted him too. It wasn't as if Michael wasn't physically unable to become a star either. Before high school, he was the best player in his grade. Just like his brother, Michael was faster and quicker than everyone else. It looked as though he had a bright future at running back, as he juked and powered though defenses with ease; but all of a sudden, he quit. Many people were stunned by this, for he was supposed to continue and star at football just like his brother. Casey started on the Varsity team his freshman year, and many expected Michael to do the same; but he didn't.

Most people didn't know the reason why he quit. In fact only two people did; himself and Jackie. He had told her why when they started dating. Sure enough, Jackie's suspicions were right. He hadn't quit because he was afraid of disappointing Casey, which most people thought; he had left because he didn't want to disappoint himself. Michael was afraid of failure and he wouldn't have been able to look his brother in the eyes if he couldn't be as good as him. He wanted to be just as good as him, and trained just as hard as his brother did; but for some reason, he never thought he could never be as good or as talented. So he gave up, and tried to forget about football. Jackie knew however that Michael missed football terribly, and that he wouldn't even go to football games because he was afraid that he would want to play again if he saw his brother play. She also knew that it wouldn't be that hard to convince him to play again. If she did Jackie's dream of Michael playing football would come true. She just needed to ask him at the right moment.

"And here's me breaking some guy's ankles as I score the game winning T.D." Michael continued as he flipped through all of his old football photos. Jackie had asked to see them from out of the blue, but he didn't mine; it brought up some pretty good memories. He knew how good he used to be, and it didn't hurt to reminisce about the days of juking, stiff arming and plowing through defenders. It was funny how it seemed so long ago, when in actuality he had only quit for about two years. Kelso never forgot his playing days, and at times wished he was still playing; but for the most part he was comfortable with being an average high school student who was good with the ladies and pretty damn handsome too. Still, there was always a part of him that wondered what might have been if he decided to continue playing. If he was still playing, he would actually be playing with his brother Casey who was just entering his senior year at Point Place. Many people often told him how great Point Place would have been with his brother at quarterback and himself at running back. They went as far as to say that Point Place would have won the State Championship, and often urged Kelso to reconsider; but he had already made up his mind. Kelso was not going to play.

"Wow … Michael you were soooooo awesome" Jackie said with a lot of enthusiasm. She seemed very interested.

"Well thanks Jackie. It's too bad that you didn't know me earlier. You could have seen how good I really was."

"Have you ever thought of playing again" Jackie innocently said.

"It's crossed my mind a couple of times" Kelso responded. "I mean I did play since I was like what … 5 years old."

"Well if you did play again, I could see you play. In fact I could cheer as loud as I wanted too because … well I am a cheerleader."

Kelso was a bit perplexed by this statement. "What are you getting at Jackie?"

Jackie took the album and set it aside. She needed his full attention for what she was going to say.

"Look Michael … I'm a cheerleader. All of my cheerleader friends date football or basketball players. I want one too."

"Wait … what are you saying?"

"I'm saying that I want you to play football again."

"Why … so your damn friends will be happy?" Was she really asking him to play again, just because her friends dated athletes? Why should it matter what her friends think, as long as she's happy with him.

"No, it's not for them … it's for me. Michael I love you, and I'm not gonna leave you for some stuck up jock … it's just that … well … I want to date a football player because I am a cheerleader. It's been my dream for as long as I can remember. I want to cheer for my sweetheart on the sidelines, not some random guy. I don't see why you can't play … I mean c'mon, you were the best player ever since your brother."

"Exactly … I was the best player ever since my brother. Everyone says that I was going to be as good as my brother and all of that other bullshit. Well I don't want it Jackie … I don't need it."

"Well I do Michael … do it for me, not for yourself. Please, can you do me this favor Michael?"

Kelso looked into her deep green eyes. It was impossible to resist them. He had to do it. If it meant that much to Jackie, than he needed to play. Besides, he had been missing football long enough. It was time for him to step back onto the field, and prove to himself that he could be as good as his brother.

"Alright Jackie … I'll do it. I've been running scared for too long. It's time I find out … not just for you, but for myself."

August 13, 1977

"Well Mike Kelso … what a surprise?"

Kelso entered Coach Nickerson's office in a confident, but careful manner. He really wasn't sure if he was ready to tell the coach that he wanted to play football again, but practice started the next day, and he had ran out of time. As he entered the office, he noticed all the old photographs and newspaper clippings the coach had pinned up on his wall. One of them stuck in particular; it was an article of his brother breaking the state record for passing touchdowns in a season. "Perfect" Kelso thought. "Even more to live up to."

"Coach Nickerson, how are you doing?"

"Fine, fine … now what can I do for you?"

Kelso paused, for he was uncertain how to start the conversation. It was so confusing; how was he supposed to tell a coach that had been begging him to play football that he was finally going to.

"Um … you know how this is my brother's senior year?"

"Yes. I know perfectly well that it is Casey's last year here."

"Well, I thought it would be a good idea that for one year … there were two Kelsos in your backfield."

Kelso watched Nickerson's stunned reaction, as he slowly got out of his chair and walked next to him.

"Are you telling me that you want to be Point Place's running back?"

"Yeah … I want to be a Viking … I want to play with my brother this year."

"And you're not bullshitting me?"

Kelso gave him an indignant smirk. "No" was all he could say back.

The coach only gave back a faint smile, and tried to conceal his happiness.

"Alright … we meet tomorrow at 8:00 A.M. on the football field … Don't be late."

"You got it coach." Kelso shook his hand and exited the office. He was going to play football with his brother.

August 14, 1977

Kelso awoke in a daze. He was nervous and confused; confused why he agreed to play football again. Was he really doing this for himself … or was that just an excuse so he could impress Jackie. It wasn't that bad of a concept, for he would do almost anything for her. Then again, he did miss football, so maybe this was for the best. He could make Jackie and himself happy by playing. That was all the motivation he needed. The nervousness came from not playing in so long, but it would all come back as soon as he went to the practice. Satisfied, he quickly got ready, and then hurried over to the high school.

"Mike … what the hell are you doing here" Casey asked as he waited outside with the rest of the football team.

"I'm here to play football, can't let you get all the attention from mom and dad."

"Are you out of your mind … you haven't played in two years, and this isn't Pop Warner either."

"I know … don't worry man, I won't make you look that bad."

"Just don't fuck up and make our family look bad."

"Alright?" Kelso was starting to notice that his brother was worried he was going to embarrass him.

"What the hell" Kelso thought. "Why doesn't he think I'm going to be any …"

His thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice.

"Kelso?"

He turned around to see who it was

"Bry? Holy shit man, what's up?" It was Brian Riley his old teammate from his playing days. Back then, they were the best of friends. Even his friendship with Hyde didn't even compare with Brian. They were almost inseparable; but then Kelso stopped playing football and the two drifted apart. They hung out occasionally, but it wasn't the same as it used to be.

"Dude … it's been awhile" Brian replied.

"It has … I haven't seen you since that party at Forman's house … you know, the one where their parents were gone for the weekend."

"Oh yeah … you were all over Jackie that night. How is she by the way?"

"Oh, it's all good. We've never been closer."

"So, what made you want to play football again?"

Kelso's mind froze instantly. He didn't want to tell his old friend the truth … that Jackie begged him back into football; but then again, he didn't want to be a liar either.

"Jackie said that if I played football again, I could quarterback sneak right into her end zone after every game."

"Oh bullshit."

"Man, would I lie to you."

"No, I guess you wouldn't." The two just looked at each other for a moment, happy to see the other person

"Well anyway, enough about me … how's Tracy doin' Bry?"

"You mean my girlfriend Tracy?"

"Yeah … is their any other Tracy you know?"

Their conversation was interrupted by Coach Nickerson.

"Alright guys, listen up … I want you all to follow me to the Gymnasium so we can hand out all of the equipment … you got one hour. Afterwards you will get lockers and we will start practice at 9:30. Just bring your helmet and shoulder pads. Well, that's all."

Kelso and the rest of the team followed the coach into the gym. He was bombarded by questions by all of his new teammates, ranging from why he decided to play football again did he bang Jackie yet. The thought brought Kelso's attention back to the reason why he was here. If it wasn't for her pressuring him, Kelso wouldn't have even been here. He probably would have been just hanging around in Forman's basement, wasting his summer away. At least football gave him a sense of meaning and order. As Kelso picked up all of his equipment he started think that maybe this wasn't such a bad idea after all. The players were happy he was here, and for the first time in ages, Kelso felt apart of something.

After equipment and lockers were handed out, the players met on the field where Coach Nickerson gave his typical welcoming speech for the new football season. As he went on about how the first two weeks were going to be hell, but were necessary in order to make them champions, Kelso's mind drifted back to his girlfriend. The thought of her dancing around in her cute little cheerleader outfit cheering for him, along with the fact that playing football was going to make her want him even more, made Kelso realize that this was a really, really good idea. He couldn't wait until those Friday nights after the games, when she would be all his, and he could have the pleasure of removing that cute cheerleader outfit from Jackie's amazing body. Yeah … he made the right decision.

There was something that Kelso wasn't ready for; the unbearable torture they call two a days. Two a days; the first two weeks of practices that consisted of two practices in one day. On top of that, drills were even more brutal than normal, and water breaks were few are far between. As Kelso went through the drills, it felt as if his lungs were on fire as sweat poured constantly down his face in the August summer heat. Each new one brought even more pain surging throughout his body, and Kelso really thought that he was going to explode. He was starting to realize that this wasn't going to be as easy as he thought it was going to be.

Finally, the second half of practice began, and the team began to go over plays and team strategy. Plays upon plays were gone over, until finally the players were able to practice them live; that meant full contact, and that meant going all out if Kelso was looking to start. Coach Nickerson called players names and gave them the position he wanted them to play. Eager to see if he was as good as his brother, the coach put Kelso at running back. As he went to the huddle, his brother pulled him aside.

"Don't fuck up … alright?"

Kelso just gave him a stare. It was obvious that his brother was worried that he had lost his skill. It was time for Kelso to man up and prove to Casey and himself that he could be a great football player.

"Alright guys … coach said to run an I-Form 48 Sweep. That means it's going to you Mike. Think you can handle it?"

"Yeah" Kelso responded. He was sure he could handle it.

"Good, don't screw it up now … ready break."

As Kelso got himself ready, he began wondering what his brother's problem was. When Kelso quit two years ago, Casey was devastated. Almost every day, he would tell Kelso that he was a great player, and that he should play again. However, now that Kelso wanted to play, it seemed like his brother didn't want him to be here, as if he was going to embarrass him. Why the sudden change of heart? It was all so confusing that he almost forgot the snap count.

"Ready … set … hut, hut"

The ball was snapped and Kelso's instincts took over. He remembered everything, and all the memories of his playing days came pouring back as he surged to the outside. His brother had given a perfect handoff, and it was Kelso's turn to prove to his brother that he belonged on the football field. He stiff armed the first defender, and then cut in, running to a huge hole that was set up by his blockers. His moves were so fast, that it caught the defense off guard and were in no position to stop him. Kelso raced for the end zone and had scored his first touchdown in two years. He had forgotten the excitement a touchdown brought him. Kelso listened as he heard the cheers from his teammates as they said they were glad he was back. He was too; he belonged here.

The rest of practice was pure enjoyment for Point Place's new running back. As he evaded his would be tacklers, Kelso realized his prowess had not faded at all. His brother seemed to be impressed as well, and it seemed as if his attitude was shifting.

Finally practiced ended, and Kelso who was anxious to tell Jackie how he did began to walk in the direction of her house. As he strolled along, a car pulled up next to him.

"Mike, where you headed?" It was Casey.

"Oh, I'm just headed over to Jackie's house."

"Hop in … I'll take you there."

Kelso obliged and he got in his brother's Trans Am. The two talked about practice and how good their team was going to be this year. Suddenly as if out of the blue, his brother brought up an interesting topic:

"Listen … I was on your case earlier … cuz I didn't want you playing football for the wrong reasons."

"What do you mean" Kelso asked with interest. He wondered what his brother meant by this."

"You know what I mean … playing football just to impress Jackie isn't a reason to play football."

"What the hell" Kelso responded in a bewildered manner. How did Casey know that Jackie wanted him to play … unless she told him.

"Did Jackie tell you this" Kelso asked.

"Yeah … she did."

"When?"

"It was about a week ago. She came over one day, and you weren't there yet, so she started to talk to me. She asked about when you played football, and stuff like how good you were. When I asked her why … she told me that she wanted you to play, and actually asked me if I could try to convince you."

"She asked you?"

"Yeah … it was pretty weird. Look, what I'm trying to get at is if you want to play football, then cool; but this shits dangerous, and I don't want you to get your leg broke over some girl. If the only reason you're playing is because of Jackie, then just quit. The season is long, and it will be hard to get through if you don't truly want to be out there."

Kelso was puzzled. He had never seen his brother act serious, especially when it came to girls. His brother actually seemed to care about his little brother's safety; not like the time when he convinced him to jump off the roof when Kelso was five. Then again, maybe his brother had a point; maybe the only reason he was playing was because of Jackie, and he was just lying to himself about wanting to prove that he was good. No, no he really wanted this. He really wanted to play.

"Casey I loved football a hell of a long time before I loved Jackie. I didn't begin playing just because of her. I missed the game … and I … I realize that I should of never quit. I want to play … alright?"

"Alright." His brother seemed satisfied with the answer, and the two moved on to a different subject; something they could both appreciate – Girls. After a short time, they finally arrived at Jackie's mansion of a house. It was truly beautiful, and also truly proved that she was loaded. Kelso noticed that there were no cars there … which meant no parents. "Perfect" he said to himself as he rang the doorbell.

Jackie heard the doorbell ran down stairs to answer the door. She was curious the see who it was since she hadn't invited anyone over and her parents wouldn't have rang the doorbell. She opened the door, and to her amazement it was her boyfriend.

"Surprise" Michael said as he stood their in his shirt that was dripping with sweat.

"God what is that awful smell?"

"Well damn Jackie I just came from football practice."

"You went?" Jackie said in excitement. "Oh Michael … I couldn't be happier. The smell doesn't matter as long as you're here."

"I missed you." He leaned in to give her a kiss. She quickly backed away in disgust.

"You're not going anywhere near me until you take a shower."

"Well damn Jackie" Michael repeated as he stepped into her house. The two headed upstairs to her room. When they got their, Jackie stopped from letting Michael in.

"I'm serious; you're not going in my room smelling like that."

"Fine." Michael took of his sweaty shirt and took of to the bathroom, leaving the shirt on the ground. Jackie didn't care … even though sweat made him smell, it also showed off Michael's fine body. She carefully watched him from behind as he made his way to the bathroom. Jackie couldn't help it; she was a typical teenager – full of raging hormones.

As the shower turned on, Jackie sat on her bed, and began to think about Michael.
"He went … I'm so happy" Jackie thought as her head touched the pillow. "I'm sure he did well. Just think … in a couple of weeks I'll be able to see my dreamboat play on Friday Nights … and if he get's good enough, then he can play for the Dallas Cowboys, and I'll be able to cheer for him on the sidelines again." If there was a dream job for Jackie, it was to be a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys; and if Michael played for them, it would make the job that much better. "Then again … I am getting a little ahead of myself. At least I convinced him to play." Jackie gave a soft laugh as she thought of this. "I did a pretty good job of convincing him … maybe I should try to do that more often. I mean it is a drag painting your toenails by yourself … I can get Michael to do it for me." Then she thought about when she became so bitchy, that Michael cheated on her. So … maybe the idea wasn't such a good idea … then again, maybe it was.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Michael opening the door. He was only in a towel.

"Jackie … we didn't think this through … I got nothing to change into."

"You could wear one of my skirts" Jackie said, laughing as she said it.

"I'm not going to fit into one of your damn skirts. Although I would like to get into yours right now." He stepped even closer.

"For god sakes Michael; you've been here for ten minutes and you're already thinking of sex."

"When are we gonna do it?" Michael asked. "I mean … we have been together for like eight months. We love each other don't we?"

The question caught Jackie off guard. She wasn't ready to have sex. It was simple as that. It wasn't as if she didn't like to fool around with Michael, for they had done it numerous times in the past … but she was just becoming a sophomore; she thought she was just a little too young for that big of a leap.

"I told you Michael. I want it to be special. I'm just not ready for it."

Kelso noticed the hurt in her eyes. "Jackie I didn't mean it. Please don't get angry."

"Oh don't worry about it. It's not your fault." However, Jackie did realize something. She was alone with Michael and her parents were not home. Jackie wasn't ready to have sex yet, but she was definitely ready for a full blown make out session with Michael.

"Tell you what … change back into your shorts, and we can have some fun before my parents come home."

"Allllright" Kelso yelled, and ran out the door to find his shorts.

September 1, 1977

"Man, I forgot this feeling" Kelso thought to himself as he suited up for the first game of the season. He was nervous, and for good reason. Coach Nickerson had chosen him to be the starting running back, so the offense was pretty much going to be run through him and Casey. That wasn't his only problem; this was Kelso's first game back, and everyone was going to be there; his parents, his grandparents, his friends; but most importantly Jackie. Everyone else paled in comparison to her; if he didn't impress her, than whatever he did didn't matter. To make matters worse, Kelso's heart beat had increased to about a million times per minute, and his legs which he desperately needed for tonight's game felt as if ice were coursing through them. He tried to combat this by getting himself pumped up so much that the nervousness would go away; but it wouldn't. It seemed that no matter what he did, the icy fear persisted throughout his body. He finally managed to put on his equipment and join the rest of the team. As they were starting to head toward the field, his brother came over to him.

"Mike … don't let the pressure get to you alright … we need you. I was wrong to have ever doubted you. When you go out there, kick some ass and make up for all the lost time. I believe you."

This was the side that Kelso rarely saw of Casey. He was a good brother sure, and they got along well, but Casey was usually never serious around him; but this was coming straight from the heart, and Kelso appreciated it. It calmed him, as he realized that he would still be loved if were to fail. The nervousness was replaced by a rush of adrenaline that left Kelso with as much self confidence as he needed.

"Thanks Casey … now let's both kick some ass." His brother gave him a sure look of confidence and they both stepped of the locker room ready for the game.

The warm ups for Kelso seemed to blow by, for it seemed like no time at all passed before the National Anthem started playing. As he heard the music play, Kelso looked over to Jackie who had been staring at him the entire time. The two locked eyes, almost entranced by the other person. Both knew that this was more than just a football game. It was Kelso's shot at redemption. He gave her a nod, and then turned his attention to old glory.

Finally, the first game of the season was underway. The team they were playing was a preppy school from the other side of town known as Kenosha Heights. Point Place had a bitter rivalry with this school, so this meant that the stands were full to their capacities. If Kelso was going to prove himself, tonight was the night.

The Kenosha Heights Knights received the ball first, but were forced to a three and out by the Vikings ferocious defense lead by Kelso's friend Brian Riley. They punted the ball out of bounds and the Vikings took over at their own 40 yard line. It was time for Kelso to work his magic and impress the hell out of Jackie. This was the first time she was going to see him play, and he wanted to make sure that she left in awe.

"Alright guys, first play of the season" Casey started as they gathered for a huddle. "Coach said to run a strong right 47 toss. It's going to you lil' bro, so make me proud." The team yelled break and took their positions. As Kelso prepped himself for the play, he took a good look at the Knight's defense. Their line backers seemed to be blitzing as they were crowding the line. That meant that if his line blocked for him, Kelso would have a clear line to the outside and he would only have to deal with the secondary. He smiled at this; he knew he could handle the secondary.

"Down … set … hut." The ball was snapped and Kelso took off, catching Casey's pitch in full stride. As he thought, the line backers were in an all out blitz and were sucked up by his lineman. Kelso cut up, and juked the corner back that was on his side. Now all that stood in his way was a string bean safety who seemed scared to be the only one that could save a touchdown, for he wasn't attack, but rather sitting back waiting for him. Seeing this opportunity, Kelso used all of his strength and rammed right into the guy. He fell straight on his back, and Kelso sprinted out of reach of the other players, and scored. Not bad for a person who hadn't played in two years. As he passed the goal line, Kelso stopped and listened to the crowd who had erupted into a frenzy. Oh, how he missed that sound of people screaming at the top of their lungs. He was glad he was back.

"Touchdown by number 21 Mike Kelso" the announcer boomed, as the crowd continued to cheer. They would not be disappointed. Although Kenosha Heights scored on their next possession, the Kelso brothers took over, and lead the Vikings to a 49 – 14 rout over their nemesis. Casey had a good game with three passing touchdowns, but everyone was talking about Kelso, and how a running back that never had played in a varsity game, scored 4 touchdowns; in three quarters. He did so well, that he was able to sit with his brother as they watched the second string control the rest of the game. As the team exited the field, they were met by the fans and cheerleaders congratulating them. Chants such as "we are proud of you" rang throughout the night. Even though he surprised even himself with how we did, all he could think about was being alone with Jackie. He had planned to pick her up after the game, since Casey was letting him borrow the car. What would happen when they were alone Kelso could only imagine. She had seemed to like him even more ever since he had started playing, and now … after what he did, he thought he might even to be able to go all the way; and why not? In his mind it was actually overdue. They had been going out for almost a year, and Kelso was ready. In fact he had been ready for a long time; but it didn't matter if he was ready. The girl is always the deciding factor, and if she doesn't agree, it's not going to happen. Kelso knew that if Jackie didn't agree, they weren't going to do it. After what he just did though … he was feeling pretty good about himself, so he was happy that they were going to be all alone. "It's time to find out" Kelso thought to himself as he entered his car.

Before he could pick up Jackie, Kelso needed to shower, and get ready for the night ahead. He told Jackie he would pick her up later that night, so really he could pick her up at any time he wanted to. However, Kelso decided the sooner he got their, the better, and rushed home. After taking a quick shower, and giving himself a once over, he was ready. Now all he had to do was pick up Jackie and see where the night took them.

When he arrived, Jackie was already outside waiting for him; but that wasn't the only surprise. Jackie was still in her cheerleader uniform, and she was looking fine. If there was one thing that turned Kelso on, it was a hot girl in a cheerleader uniform, and he was about to be alone with one. "This keeps getting better and better" Kelso thought as he made his way towards her.

"What's with the outfit?" Kelso asked innocently.

"Eh, just too lazy to change. You don't mind do you?"

Kelso paused, unsure what to say. The way she asked if he didn't mind … it felt … different. Perhaps he was getting mixed signals, but it seemed as if Jackie was doing this on purpose, almost as if to turn him on … to turn him on? Maybe she wanted it as much as he did. Satisfied Kelso replied with a simple not at all and lead her to his brother's Trans Am.

Passion filled the recesses of the car, as Michael and Jackie went at it. They had driven to a secluded area, and after a brief discussion about the game, were in a full blown make out session. It wasn't as if Jackie minded it, for she was actually hoping to get Michael alone. She was impressed to say the least with Kelso's performance at the game … and especially now in the car. Things were going to plan for Jackie; they would do this for a while, and then go celebrate the win somewhere. Besides, Jackie loved it when the two made out, almost as much as Michael did. Doing it in the uncomfortable dimensions of the car was a small price to pay to have Michael kiss her, and touch her, and say how much he loved her. Yes, things were working out for Jackie. She had the man of her dreams, persuaded him to play football, and it seemed that they cared about each other greatly. What could possibly go wrong for her?

Things quickly turned from slow and romantic, to hot and heavy. Michael had already taken her bra off, and was feeling her up with his left hand. Jackie loved every minute of it. In fact, she was so turned on, she didn't even seem to realize that Michael had put his right hand down her skirt, and began to touch her private area. This only increased Jackie's lust for Michael, and she let out a moan of gratification. Then, he began to pull off her skirt; and this was when Jackie started to worry. If she didn't stop his progress soon, they were going to have sex right in the car. Immediately, an alarm ran through her body. She wanted her first time to be romantic, and magical; not in some car on a Friday Night.

"Michael" Jackie whispered, trying to get his attention. It didn't work, and he continued.

"Michael" she said louder, but to no avail. Jackie was going to have to be forceful.

"Michael, get off me" Jackie yelled, and pushed him away. This got his attention, and he stopped immediately.

"What the hell" Kelso thought as the two sat up in the backseat of the car. "Why'd we stop?"

"Sorry about that" Jackie started. "I guess I let it go too far."

Kelso was confused to say the least by this statement. "I thought she wanted me to." His brain was racing, trying to search for an answer; but he couldn't find one.

Jackie saw this confusion and tried to talk to him about what just happened.

"You're not mad are you?"

"No I'm not mad" Kelso responded, which was an obvious lie. He was horny and he wanted to finish what he had started.

Jackie saw right through his lie.

"Yes you are."

"Well I'm not happy to tell you the truth. I mean we love each other, don't we? I just want to show you that I do."

"Look Michael … I want our first time to be special, and not in a car, just so you can boost your ego."

Kelso was starting to get angry. They had been going out for many months now and knew that they loved each other. Yet, she still didn't trust him to be her first.

"I'm not trying to boost my ego … I just want to prove that I love you."

Jackie saw through that as well, and attacked him with a thought provoking question.

"Did you play football, just so you could do it with me?"

The question ripped though Kelso's brain and left him speechless.
"Answer me Michael …" Jackie was tearing up at this point. "Did you start playing football, just to impress me enough to have sex with me?"

Kelso tried to search for words to say, but nothing was coming out. How did she come up with that idea? That wasn't it at all … was it?

"It's true isn't … You can't answer, because it's true … well let me tell you something Michael. I'll have sex when I'm ready, and if you can't wait with me, then maybe we can't be together."

"Wait a second." Kelso had heard enough. He wasn't going to stand there, and be ridiculed by her. "You were the one to ask me to play … I did it for you. That idea never even crossed my mind, alright? I … I just wanted to make you happy. That's all I want … I just want to make you happy. That's also the reason why I wanted to do it tonight … because I thought that was what you wanted. I would never do anything you wouldn't want me to do … don't you trust me?"

Jackie was silent, for she didn't know what to believe. He needed convince her.

"I'm sorry O.K. … I didn't know that you weren't ready yet. I promise that I won't even bring up the issue of sex with you, until you tell me you're ready … Jackie please believe me … I love you. I wouldn't do anything to hurt you."

Jackie looked over to him, her stare almost scaring Kelso. It was almost as if she was searching in his eyes for the truth.

"I know you love me … and I love you too. I guess we both got carried away."

The two continued to look at each other. They knew that they were in love and that they only wanted what was best for the relationship.

"Let's get out of here" Kelso said, as he crawled back over to the driver's seat to turn on the engine.

November 30, 1977

This was it; the moment Point Place had waited for fifteen years for. Only one more game stood between the Vikings becoming state champions. All the predictions of how great the team would be with both Kelso's playing were true. Throughout the season, no team could stop the high octane offense the Vikings had, for if they tried to stop the pass, Kelso would run all over them; and if they tried to stop the run, then Casey would light up the scoreboard with his precision passing. Every week the Vikings would find a way to win against their opponent. Casey had continued to impress the fans with his passing ability, but it was Kelso who really gave the Vikings their boost. In the past, the team never really had a strong running game which always seemed to lead to their downfall; but now, with Kelso at running back, nobody in town thought they could be stopped.

They had been doing so well, that they were currently ranked second in the state. Problem was the team they were facing was the number one team in the state. The Ampipe Bulldogs had been state champions for the past three years. Led by strong coaches, and backed by the entire town, the Bulldogs were able to create an unstoppable powerhouse. To make matters worse for Point Place, Ampipe boasted a tough, hard hitting, smash mouth defense that had only given up two touchdowns the entire season. They were stacked on both sides of the ball, having an unprecedented three All -Americans and two more All – State players. Outside the town of Point Place, most predicted that Ampipe would win their fourth consecutive state title.

The whole team was silent as they began to dress. They knew that winning this game was not only their hope, but the entire town's hope as well. A win tonight would be something that would be talked about in Point Place for years to come. It was much more than a football game … it was a battle for pride and dignity which would stay in the town forever.

As Kelso began to put his shoulder pads on, Brian unexpectedly came up and tapped him on the shoulder.

"Yeah what" Kelso said as he began lacing the shoulder pads together.

"I need to talk to you man." Kelso looked up in surprise. The Brian had said it … it just didn't sound like Brian. He was always the one who was yelling at the top at his lungs before a game, so pumped up, that it sounded as if he was going into battle. Yet it wasn't there. It was replaced by a look of worry, and futility.

"What" Kelso answered back, wondering if he was just imagining the whole thing.

"I got to talk to you" Brian replied, his expression meek and feeble. Kelso knew that this had to be important, because Brian wasn't a person who showed weakness.

"What is it?"

Brian paused, as if confused by what to say. Whatever it was, it was extremely important.

"Tracy's pregnant."

"What" Kelso repeated. He must have heard something wrong. There was no way that was possible.
"Tracy's pregnant. I took her to the clinic up in Madison."

"Well … what does she think about an abortion" Kelso said back, hoping that there was some way out for Brian.

"You know Tracy, not real good."

"What are you gonna do?" Kelso replied.

"What am I supposed to do?" He was right. What was he supposed to do? The only thing that Kelso could do was hug him, and told him it was going to be all right.

After this brief moment of compassion, Kelso turned from Brian, and continued to dress. However, all Kelso could think about was Brian's situation and pregnancy. What if that was him? What if he had gotten his girlfriend pregnant? Sure sex was all fun and pleasure, and that's why Kelso had wanted it. To him, and any other male teenager, sex was awesome. However, most don't realize the possibility of impregnating the girl they have sex with, until it actually happens. If it could happen to Brian, it certainly could happen to him as well. The very thought of pregnancy made Kelso remember that time in the car with Jackie. He didn't have a condom with him that night. If they had gone all the way, then it would probably be Kelso right now who was the one telling Brian that he had gotten his girlfriend pregnant. If Jackie hadn't stopped him that night … his life could be so much different. "Maybe she had a point" Kelso thought to himself, continuing to ponder the situation. "Maybe we should wait." However, he decided he had spent enough time on this issue, and went back to focusing on the game.

It was finally here. The last game of the season was finally here. As kickoff neared, the stands were full of Ampipe and Point Place fans. Both desperately wanted the state championship, but only one could have it. Coach Nickerson tried his best to fire the team up with a riveting speech, because they were the ones who were going to have to prove that they belonged on that field. Everyone was ready; including Kelso. When he took the field, he couldn't believe the sight. It was if the whole town had come to watch them play. This was more than he had ever expected when he decided to play in August. The roar of the crowd was almost deafening, as they cheered at the top of their lungs. Jackie and the rest of the cheerleaders were leading the crowd; now it was Kelso's turn to lead his team.

Point Place won the coin toss and elected to receive, and try to shock the Bulldogs by scoring on their first possession, a feat that hadn't been done all year. The kick sailed into the crisp autumn night. It was high, but not accurate, and the Bulldogs ended up kicking the ball out of bounds, which put Point Place at their own forty yard line. This great field position had to be capitalized by the Vikings, for chances like these were going to be few and far between. The Vikings started off with a toss to Kelso, hoping that he would catch the defense off guard by his lightning fast speed. The result; a two yard loss, and Kelso felt as if the air had been taken out of him as two Bulldog defenders picked him up and drove him into the ground. It wasn't going to be that easy. Kelso was slow to get up, and Jackie started to get worried. She had seen him take hits before, but this team seemed to hit on a whole different level. It didn't cross her mind until now that he could get seriously hurt. The next play, Casey somehow managed to escape the Bulldogs aggressive defensive front, and connected with one of his receivers for a forty two yard completion. It would be their only first down of the first quarter. On the next three plays, the Vikings were hammered on every side, and were forced to kick a field goal. It wasn't that many points, but scoring on the Bulldogs was an accomplishment in itself.

However, the rest of the half was dominated by Ampipe. On their opening possession, the Bulldogs stormed down the field and scored a touchdown with relative ease. Then, during the second quarter, a linebacker on Ampipe stripped Casey of the football as he dropped back to pass, and the Bulldogs recovered it, setting up another touchdown. By the end of the first half, Ampipe was leading 14 – 3, and had manhandled Point Place on both sides of the ball. It seemed as if the Vikings' season was going to end in a brutal and humiliating loss to the best team in the state. If they wanted the championship, they were going to have to prove that they belonged out there.

Kelso started them on that track early on in the third quarter with an eighty yard touchdown, cutting the Bulldogs' lead to only 14 - 10. For a game that seemed dominated mostly by Ampipe, it seemed that the Vikings could not only stay with them, but win the game all together. However, Ampipe took over the game again, and by the end of the third quarter, were up 21 – 10. The Vikings were in an unlucky predicament; they needed to score twelve points against a team that had only give up two touchdowns all season. It would have to take all quarter, and the Viking's defense could not allow Ampipe to score.

For the first six minutes of the quarter, both teams stalemated each other, neither of them making much progress. However, out of nowhere, Casey came alive, and ran fifty yards on a quarterback keeper to get the Vikings to the ten yard line. On the next play, he through a screen pass to his little brother for a touchdown. After the extra point, the game's score was 21 – 17. The Bulldogs were leading, but people's thoughts about Point Place were starting to shift. They started to believe that the Vikings could actually win the game. All Point Place had to do was stop Ampipe on their next possession, and they would have one final shot to win the game.

Ampipe tried desperately to run out the clock, and seal the victory, but Brian, who had finally woken up out of his trance – like state, came alive, and personally ended the drive with three minutes to go. The Vikings would have time, but not a lot of it, and could not afford any mistakes. Starting from their own thirty yard line, the Vikings were seventy yards away from being state champions. With only three minutes left, it was now or never for the Vikings.

Things started out smoothly; a screen for about eight yards, and then a sweep to the outside for ten. Then the appraised Ampipe defense came to life, and sacked Casey for a ten yard loss, and on the next play forced him to throw an incomplete pass. Third and twenty was never a situation the Vikings wanted to get into. With only a minute and a half remaining, they were going to have to make their move now. The ball was snapped … Casey dodged a would be tackler, and searched downfield trying to find a man. Then, out of the corner of his eye … he spotted his little brother streaking down the sidelines. Evading another defender, Casey gave a mighty heave. He was under so much duress that the ball was somewhat off target, and Kelso had to jump in mid air to try and grab it. If that wasn't bad enough, the safety had come over, and leaped into the air with Kelso … only one person came down with the ball … It was Kelso, and he had just put the Vikings at the twenty yard line with just over a minute remaining.

Twenty yards didn't seem long; but it was considering that the defense at that point was now completely pissed, and realized that they could lose. Neither team wanted that to happen; to come so close, and in the end fall short. This game was going to go down right to the wire.

Fifty seconds had passed, and Point Place had battled their way to the four yard line. If it didn't go in now, they were only going to have one more chance. Casey handed the ball off to Kelso and … a gain of two yards. Coach Nickerson immediately called his last time out, of the last half, of the last game to talk to his players on what play to call. Their decision was unanimous; a lead handoff to Kelso. It was all up to him; the whole season. In a million years, he never dreamed of being in this situation. Yet it was happening right now. All the players, including his brother looked at him with confidence, for they were sure he would somehow find a way in the end zone. The time out ended, and the team went over to huddle.

"Guys …" Casey started.

"It's right here. The state championships right here if we want it … O.K., we are going with the I – form 42 lead. Mike … it's all up to you lil bro … make me proud."

Casey's talk gave Kelso an instant shot of adrenaline that he drastically needed for this play. Between him and the state championship were eleven pissed of Bulldogs who wanted it as bad as he did. He was just going to have to show he had more heart.

"Down … set …" Kelso looked around. Ampipe was clogging the middle. If he was going to score, his line was going to have to block the best they had ever done before.

"Hut." The ball was snapped, and Casey gave the ball to Kelso. His line did their job and took out the defense's linemen. He started running, hoping like hell it was going to be this easy. Then … out of the corner of his eye … he saw this gigantic linebacker sprinting at him. He was going to have to jump, and sacrifice his body. The linebacker saw this, and leaped into the air, hoping to stop Kelso dead in his tracks. They collided head first, and came crashing down, Kelso landing on his head … into the end zone. Touchdown Vikings!!! Problem was however, that Kelso didn't know he had landed in the end zone. The combination of colliding with the linebacker head first and landing head first on the ground left him unconscious. His teammates came over to celebrate with him, only to find him not moving. They quickly called over the referees. Something was wrong.

"Oh god … it's all my fault" Jackie thought as she waited to see Michael in the hospital. After everyone realized that he wasn't getting up, people stopped their cheering to see if he was alright. He was still breathing … so that was a good sign, but they wouldn't know how bad the injury was until he was examined at the hospital. The win was bittersweet for Point Place. If Michael hadn't heroically leaped into the end zone, he would have never scored, but then he would have never gotten hurt. Jackie didn't even care about the win and go out celebrating the victory with everyone else. Instead, she went to the hospital to see Michael, where she was starting to put the blame on herself.

"If I had never told him to play football, he would have never been in this situation. What if he's paralyzed? What if he's in a coma? … I should have never let my stupid girlhood dream from coming between my love with Michael; and now I might have just let my boyfriend get seriously hurt … I am such a …"

"Jackie, you can see Michael now" Kitty said. She was a nurse at the Point Place Hospital, and was luckily on duty when Michael got hurt.

"How is he Mrs. Forman?" Jackie asked as the two walked to his room.

"Well … he'll live. I'm not really sure how severe it is. You'll have to ask the doctor."

The word "severe" ran like a blade through Jackie's mind. He could be seriously hurt. "It's all my fault" Jackie repeated as she stepped in Michael's room.

"Hey beautiful" Michael said in almost a dream like state, as Jackie entered the room.

"Oh Michael, you're alive" Jackie yelled and went over to hug him.

"Ow … that's my eye" Michael responded, apparently hurt by the hug.

"What" was all that Jackie could respond with.

"It's his right eye" the doctor said as he entered the room.

"When he was hit head on by the player and landed on the ground, the trauma of both impacts gave him a severe concussion. Also, the optic nerve that attaches to his eye was partially detached. He'll still be able to see, but the eye will always be a little tender."

"My eyes have nerves?" Michael responded, the stupidity of the question not crossing his mind.

"Yes … everyone does. Well, he'll be alright, but I don't think he will be able to play football again … I'll leave you two alone, so you can talk." The doctor exited the room, leaving only Jackie and Michael in the room.

Jackie let her emotion pour out. "Oh Michael, I'm so sorry. It's all my fault, I should have never pressured you into playing football. Please forgive me."

"Forgive you?" He wondered why it was necessary. "Why do I need to forgive you Jackie? You did nothing wrong."

"Yes I did. If I never asked you to play, you would have never gotten hurt."

"True … but let me tell you something else. If you never asked me to play, I would have never experienced being in a varsity football game. I would have never known what it was like to be the star. I loved it all, and wouldn't have known this excitement if it wasn't for you … and Jackie, this experience helped us too … because of football, we've grown closer right?"

I guess" was all that Jackie replied.

"Yes we have … and" Michael paused, as if searching for the right answer.

"And because of this experience, I realize that I can wait until you're ready to have sex. I love you Jackie … when you're ready, I will be glad to show you how much I love you."

The words sent a rush of emotions into Jackie. Michael always had an answer for everything. She was never gladder than now to call him her boyfriend … and when she was ready, she hoped that the person she made love with was Michael. It was meant to be him.

"Oh Michael" was all she could say, and she leaned over to kiss him. The two embraced each other, both glad that their love was never stronger.

"So …" Michael said as the two stopped to look in each other. "Wanna do it?"

"Michael!"

"Just kidding beautiful."

Happy to see that it was a joke, Jackie leaned in to kiss him again.

"Ow, my eye" Michael said, still in pain from the concussion.
"Oh my god, you are such a baby" Jackie exclaimed.

"Augh" the infamous high pitched sound was all that Michael could respond with, not sure whether to be insulted by the comment"

"But, you're my baby … I love you Michael."

"I love you too Jackie." The two connected together with a hug, managing not to hurt Michael's eye. They held each other in that hospital bed, as if nothing was ever going to go wrong. As long as they had each other, what else did they need? Love was all that they would ever need.

So, whad ya think? For all of you wondering why Kelso is playing football, his brother played, so ist isn't that much of a stretch. It was pretty long, but I hope you enjoyed all of it. Please, if you can take the time, can you review my story? I know I sound like a dick, but it would make me so happy if you reviewed it. Well, hope you enjoyed it so far Kelso/Jackie fans.