I DO NOT OWN THESE CHARACTERS. THEY BELONG TO THE CW NETWORK. THIS IS A WORK OF FANFICTION BY OMEGABEAST.

LONELY HEARTS CHAPTER 13

Vincent's grip began to slip. Beads of sweat materialized, making a beeline for his eyes. He blinked rapidly, hoping to clear the blur from his vision. His hands itched to wipe away the wet distraction. His eyes looked upward, accessing the bleak scene above. Tanner was hanging by a thread, with only minutes to go before he fell to his rocky grave. Vincent expelled a sigh. If he could just scale the wall, he could rescue his friend. Time dwindled away as his grasp on the rock became more unsteady. Only a few inches of granite stood between him and a fatal fall. He made the mistake of looking down and his life flashed before his eyes. The things he could have done. All his dreams would perish along with him. He was going to die! The realization hit like a ton of bricks, almost forcing him to release his grip and end his agony. Life would go on and the church bell would toll for the fool of the worst kind. No family, few friends and no legacy to leave behind. A few raindrops and a light breeze, and his imprint would disappear forever. The scene began to fade. He anticipated the spotlight that would soon shine upon him and guide him to his eternal home. He wasn't a man prone to crying or even one to display any form of emotions, but his traitorous eyes deceived him and opened the floodgates, freeing all the pain he had held inside for far too long. He cried for the little boy who had grown up to be lonely, bitter, and cold. A heart fortified by ice, slowly warmed, melting the barrier of protection. He braced himself as his imminent demise drew closer. But as his resolve settled in, one name entered his mind and his world or what was left of it, tilted, shifted, and he knew the end would have to wait. His internal strength summoned for reinforcements while his courage arose from its languorous bed. With his league of formidable companions in place, his body had a fighting chance. He reached out, grasping for hope, wishing for a miracle, praying this wasn't the end of his story. He thought about Catherine and that was all he needed. He closed his eyes and strength manifested from out of the blue. He grabbed the rocks as if he had claws attached and pulled himself up. He was going to make it! If Tanner could just hold on a little while longer, he could save him. Sweat poured off him in buckets, but that was of little relevance, and he couldn't let something so minute hinder him. With every move, his heart soared with triumph. 'I can do it' became his mantra and a mental image of Catherine's face became his motivation. Out of the blue, the atmosphere changed and he opened his eyes. Disoriented, he perused his surroundings. Everything became crystal clear when he looked at his bed. Claw marks with torn sheets left little to decipher. He had been dreaming, again.

CATHERINE

Catherine entered the Winston Diner to pick up her order for the picnic. Almost immediately the familiar smells of burgers and fries permeated her nose. As a teenager, it had always been a treat to get a milkshake there on her way home from school. Many regrets came to mind, but the biggest of all was her lack of friends growing up. Now she had been given a second chance in her hometown and she promised herself she wouldn't make the same mistakes this time around.

"Catherine." Surprised at hearing her name, she looked around, wondering who could possibly know her in the diner. It had been years since she'd been there, but maybe one of her classmates were dining there and had recognized her. Looking around, she spotted a brunette waving from a booth in the middle of the establishment. Catherine walked over, realizing at the last minute it was Alicia. She hadn't seen her since the parade and was a little shocked Alicia remembered her at all. Being that it was a small town, she shouldn't be so surprised. After all, to most of the residents she was a new face, and certainly by now, the talk of the town.

"Hey, Catherine, how are you?" Alicia drawled.

"I'm fine. Just picking up my order," Catherine replied, hoping their encounter would be quick. She had a sexy man waiting on her, and she wouldn't be late. By her next words, obviously, Alicia had read her mind.

"I won't hold you up, but I want to remind you about my barbecue this weekend. I hope you can make it."

Before Catherine could respond, the bell over the door chimed, prompting her to glance in that direction. Her eyes locked with Vincent's gorgeous blue eyes, giving her excited heart a reason to speed up the tempo. He smiled before heading in her direction. Without preamble, he slid his arm around her waist, pulled her close and kissed her right in front of everyone in the diner. Catherine knew her face was beyond red, but she couldn't find it in herself to care. She ignored that nagging voice in her head, allowing her body to relax in his embrace and returned his kiss. All her life she'd been the good girl. And look where that had gotten her. Besides, who in their right mind would refuse a kiss from the most handsome man in town. No one. And she sure wouldn't be the first. But one thing was certain, the rooster could take a personal day off tomorrow, because the tongues would be wagging so early in the morning, even the rooster wouldn't dare rise up out of his slumber at such an ungodly hour.

Alicia looked on as if she were watching a movie on TV, while several people gasped, undoubtedly taken aback by the public display of affection. Vincent released her and walked over to the register. "I believe my girlfriend, Catherine, called in an order," he informed the wide-eyed cashier. Vincent knew he was causing quite a stir, but he remembered how upset Catherine had been at the parade and after today no one would have any doubts about their status. After finally collecting herself, the cashier brought the order out to Vincent. He paid the bill and turned around to face a still shell shocked Catherine.

"Baby, are you ready for that picnic you promised me?" He asked, extending his hand to her.

And in that moment every eye in the place rested on Catherine. Talk about being put on the spot. But like a true Southern belle, she rose to the occasion and responded accordingly. "Darling, I thought you would never ask," she said, taking his hand. He led her outside to an enormous Black Ford F-250 truck. Catherine paused for a moment, and as if he could read her mind, he opened the passenger side door, quickly placing the bag on the back seat before swooping her up in his arms and depositing her in the passenger seat. Unbeknownst to Catherine and Vincent, they were being watched by everyone in the diner. Women secretly coveted Vincent, while men secretly envied him. They weren't in Hollywood, but the gossip mill was just as bad in a small town. By tomorrow the sun would rise on a new "it" couple and possibly their own nickname.

Ten minutes later, Vincent pulled in a parking space at Turkey Creek Lake. Catherine looked around, wondering why they were at the lake instead of the park.

"I'll be right back," Vincent stated before jumping out of the truck. A few minutes later he returned. "You ready?" He asked as he grabbed the food from the backseat.

"Are you going to tell me why we're at the lake?" Catherine asked from the passenger seat.

"Not big on patience are you?" Vincent asked, stopping to look at her. "It's a surprise. Now move your butt, because you'll have to see for yourself."

Catherine bit back a smart reply, before jumping down out of the truck. She wasn't accustomed to relinquishing control to anyone. She knew a relationship was about compromise and being considerate of the other person's feelings, but this was her first relationship, so she was still a work in progress.

She followed Vincent to a launching area where a jon boat was moored near the bank. In the distance, moss covered cypress trees lined the lily pad filled water. Several boats filled with people sat idle with fishing lines cast in the water, waiting on a bite from the fish. The setting was peaceful and serene and Catherine soon found herself excited.

"I take it from your smile, you've guessed we're going fishing."

"That's correct, Mr. Keller," she said, shading her eyes with her hand, as she looked toward the sky. "The sun will be setting soon, so we better get a move on."

Vincent gestured toward the boat. "Your chariot awaits, My Lady."

Soon they found their own spot and prepared to cast their lines. Vincent produced three small buckets.

"I have minnows, worms, and rage toads. I prefer rage toads, because the bass tend to gravitate towards that particular lure."

"No worms. I despise snakes and worms remind of them. Yuck," Catherine said, frowning. "Let me try the toad."

Vincent didn't say anything, but he wasn't surprised at her choice. Very few women chose worms over other bait.

Vincent grabbed a rage toad from his supply. "I'll help you bait your hook the first time, because the legs on the toad are very temperamental."

After their lines were cast, a companionable silence ensued. Everything was perfect as the sun slowly made its descent toward the horizon, with its glint reflected in the dark waves, creating the most romantic backdrop. Catherine didn't care if she caught one fish, because the view was spectacular and sharing it with Vincent made it even better. And if the day couldn't get any better, she spotted some pelicans in the distance. Totally deserting her fishing pole, she retrieved her phone and began snapping pictures of the beautiful scenery. So engrossed in her photo session, she completely forgot about Vincent until she turned around. A frown creased his forehead, while his eyes conveyed his thoughts. She looked down sheepishly.

"Sorry. The scenery is so beautiful, I simply couldn't resist," she muttered. She berated herself silently. Men took fishing serious and here she was showing little regard for the kind gesture Vincent had made by sharing his world with her. She slowly raised her head, only to find a smile on Vincent's face. Unable to contain her own smile, she shook her head and grabbed her pole. Oh, but payback would be sweet and quite gratifying.

"You looked so adorable as your eyes and camera captured the view. Don't be upset with me. I couldn't help myself," Vincent stated apologetically. "Besides you don't have time to sulk, you're about to get a bite on your line. Remain calm and watch your bobber. If it moves or goes below the surface, it's time to pull it in. I'll be right behind you to guide you every step of the way."

"And let me guess, you know this because of your newly heightened senses."

He smirked. "Yes."

She turned around to face him. "Are we going to talk about your little show at the diner?"

"I don't think there's anything more to say."

"You marched into the diner, kissed me in front of half the town and then claimed me as your girlfriend. And you think there's nothing more to say."

"Are you my girlfriend?"

Catherine looked at him shyly. "Yes."

"Then that's all that matters." He raised his brow. "Are you trying to pick a fight with me, so we can have a reason to make up later? If so, there's no need. I was planning on ravishing you later anyway," he said confidently.

A smile spread across her face. "You are incorrigible."

"I may be, but you love me anyway." He smiled and she had to remind herself she was in a boat to keep from swooning.

"As much as I love making you blush, I must put a pause on it, since you have a bite. Let's see what you're made of, then we'll have our picnic."

SOUTHERN FLAIR BED AND BREAKFAST

Early Saturday morning, Catherine made her way to the B & B. Dread wrapped around her mind, but the time had come to face her mother. If she hoped to have a loving and happy relationship with Vincent, then she had to say her piece to her mother and let the past go for good. As she climbed the steps, her mind worked overtime compiling her thoughts on what she would say.

"Morning little lady. You look like someone with a lot on their mind."

Surprised, Catherine looked up to find Charlie in his usual spot. "Good morning, Charlie." She gave him a weak smile. "You've figured me out. I carry the weight of the world on my shoulders and I hope when I leave my load will be much lighter."

Charlie didn't respond immediately and Catherine had to look at him more than once to make sure he hadn't fallen asleep.

"Catherine, I hope I'm not overstepping my boundaries, but I would like to give you a bit of advice.

Catherine nodded her head and took a seat on the top step. Charlie didn't waste any time and got straight to the point.

"You can't teach an old dog new tricks. You think about that and the next time we talk, I'm sure you'll know what I mean."

"Good Morning, Catherine. I didn't realize you were out here," Avery said from the door.

"I haven't been here long. I came to see my mother and I was just having a friendly chat with Charlie before I came inside."

"I was just coming to get Charlie for breakfast. Can I get you anything?"

Avery sensed Catherine had a lot on her mind and would probably decline breakfast.

"No, thank you. I need to speak with my mother before I lose the willpower to do so," Catherine stated with a half smile."

"I'm sure everything will work out. Be honest about your feelings and you can't go wrong. I'll go get her for you. Come on and eat Charlie."

Charlie used his cane to raise up off the swing. He glanced over at Catherine before heading in the house. Her face said it all, but he knew there was nothing he could do. This was a lesson she had to learn on her own.

Catherine watched Avery and Charlie go in the house. Deep inside she felt like she was waiting on her last meal before being led to the electric chair. She didn't have any idea what she would said say to her mother. Well she had a few questions, but beyond that she was clueless.

Within minutes, her mother breezed out the door, her perfume reached Catherine's nose before the screen door closed.

"You finally remembered you had a mother," Evelyn said, taking a seat on the swing.

"I could say the same about you, but I didn't come here to argue." Catherine knew she couldn't build up to her question, so she just blurted it out. "What are your plans? You can't stay here forever and it's quite obvious we can't live under the same roof. And before you go there, I don't have any money. All my resources went into renovating Grammy's house. If it wasn't for Vincent, I would be in dire straits right now."

"Then why are you wasting your time and money in this one-horse town?" Evelyn asked, turning her nose up.

"Same reason you keep coming back. It's home. Grammy loved it here and she loved me. That alone endears the town to me."

"Well you can have your town and its people. I never liked it here. You will be going nowhere fast if you stay here. But If that's what you want, then it's your life."

"You're right. It's my life. It's not like you ever cared anyway. I can't even get you to tell me who my father is, so I'm not surprised you don't care about my life."

Catherine knew her eyes were on the verge of betraying her.

"Why would you want to know about a deadbeat anyway? Believe me, I'm doing you a favor. I'm done with this pointless conversation. You're just like your grandmother, too sentimental." And with her parting shot, Evelyn left Catherine with unanswered questions and a bruised heart. One thing was painfully clear and Catherine couldn't ignore it anymore. Her mom wasn't capable of loving anyone, but herself.

Sitting alone on the front steps of the B & B, Catherine's dam broke. Tears spilled out of her eyes, running down her face. She knew she looked a mess, but she couldn't move, couldn't think, she was trapped in a sea of emotions. She wasn't surprised by her circumstances, because from day one of her life, she was unloved and shipped off to Grammy.

Out of the blue a small hand touched her back. So engrossed in her pity party, she didn't see Luke take a seat beside her.

"Are you okay, Catherine?" He asked, concern written all over his little face.

That one simple question nearly did Catherine in. If only he could stay young and ignorant to the troubles of the world.

"I will be, Luke. I feel like you did the other day. I wish I had a father. But now I'm just glad I have a friend like you."

Luke studied her for moment, while the cogs rotated in his head.

"Stay here. I'll be right back. Don't leave, okay," he said, before making a hasty retreat in the house.

A few minutes later he returned, taking his previously vacated seat on the step. He handed Catherine an action figure along with a roll of toilet paper.

"That's Optimus Prime. I told him to take care of you until you feel better."

Catherine didn't stand a chance against Optimus Prime and Luke. She cried in earnest, because a nine-year little boy had more love for her than her own mother.

Through sobs and sniffles, she said, "I appreciate you trying to help me, but I can't take your toy."

"Please. I know he can make you feel better. He'll protect you too. You're my friend and I want to help you," Luke pleaded.

When Catherine looked over at Luke and saw the unshed tears in his eyes, she knew Optimus Prime would be going home with her.

Thank you for reading. I hope you enjoyed and if so leave me a review letting me know. I love reading your feedback. Thanks Debbie Green for your invaluable insight.

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