New Start
By Didi
Disclaimer: I do not own the Power Rangers or any of the characters.
Summary: They're all grown up and separated. Just when you thought it was all over for the old gang, fate throws them together once more.
Rating: R for language and content at times.
Acknowledgements: Ozmadayus (Shawn), you are the best. Your writing has always been an inspiration to us all that want to write a little better. Thanks for everything.
Note: I am writing this story so I'm not tempted to throw something hard and deadly in frustrating moments. I'm not sure where I want to take this story but I promise to try to make it fun and interesting for everyone that reads it.
~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Twenty-Six
~~~~~~~~~~
July 18, 2004
The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada
Trini laid on her side and studied Jason's face in the moonlight and neon strip lights from the window. It was almost dawn but the moon was still glowing strong, throwing a wonderful light across the bed on Jason's features. He was a beautiful man. Not simply his handsome features, but the way he was kind and gentle. It was the way he could always put people at ease, be they young or old, beautiful or less than pleasant to the eyes, strong or societies' most vulnerable. Everyone could trust Jason Lee Scott with his big gentle hands and ready smile.
She trusted him. She trusted him with her life more than once more than a lifetime ago. They've shared secrets, fears, understanding, and experiences. Trini remembered a conversation with him some time ago, after he had left her in Switzerland with the Peace Conference while he was called back into action by Tommy to fulfill the role of the much-needed Gold Ranger. Jason had bitterly complained about the life he lead where secrecy was a way of life.
It had never been easy for any of them. Being Power Rangers had meant sacrificing much of their social life to battles and hours in the Command Center being patched up after combat. Dates were hard to keep due to unexpected attacks always cropping up at the most inopportune times. Heck, Trini had basically given up dating in high school while she was the controller of the Sabertooth Tiger Zord. Jason had complained that it was killing his love life, always having to run out on his dates or missing dates due to a sudden attack by their enemies.
The worse part was the secrecy. None of them had ever been good liars. It was usually so obvious to see when of them was telling less than the truth. It made for difficulties. The lame excuses were less than ideals when dealing with emotions of those you are interested in. And not being about to share their lives completely? It made for even worse communication.
But with Jason, Trini didn't have to hide her past. He shared it with her. All the battles, the victories, the defeats, and Zordon. They had shared the wonderful sense of being a part of something so special. She could talk to him so easily about her days as a Ranger, the problems they shared, and the sense of wonder when first encountering their zords. It was so good to be able to be so free with someone that you...
She gasped, not quite believing her own thoughts.
"Penny for your thoughts?" Jason asked with a quiet smile on his face. "What's wrong?" as she stared at him in disbelief. "Trini?"
She blinked salty tears back.
"Hey," sitting up slowly, he reached for her, pulling her up and into his arms. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing," she shook her head and sniffed. "I'm sorry I woke you. Go back to bed."
"Hey," he rubbed her back. "You know that I'm going to be able to rest if I don't find out what's wrong."
She pulled back and smiled at him through watery eyes. "Really, I'm fine. Just remembering some things from the past.
"Good or bad?" he asked slightly cautious, not trusting a woman's tears. He was never good at gauging whether tears were of joy or upset.
"Good," she smiled and kissed his lips. "Really they are." She kissed him again. "Make love to me, Jason."
He didn't need to be asked twice. His lips sought hers out even as his mind whirled. She had said that she wanted to make love, not have sex. If I'm not mistaken, she's definitely warmed up considerably to the idea of being with me. Life is good again.
~~~~~~~~~~
July 18, 2004
Trini Kwan's Condo
168 Apple Grove Drive #A
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"Come on, Aisha. This is ridiculous." Kimberly said as she shifted on the couch. Tommy had gone back to his place for more clothes plus to get some milk and eggs since they were out. The only thing either one of them knew to make without creating a disaster area out of the kitchen was scramble eggs. "You have to come."
"Kim, did you forget who else moved to New Jersey with the rest of you people?"
"Look, you were excited about coming here only a week ago." Kimberly argued. She was determined to bring the girl here since there was no chance of her leaving the East Coast any time soon. "You can stay with Trini and me and never have to see him."
"Right," Aisha rolled her eyes. "You guys are practically living next door to one another. Plus from everything I hear, you and your man are getting it on."
"Okay, why does everyone seem so interested in my life all of a sudden?"
"Not your life my dear. It's your sex life that we want the juicy details about."
"Shut up." Kimberly laughed with amusement. "Now, back to what we were talking about before. By the way, where's Tanya?"
"Sitting next to me grinning like a fool."
"I resent that!" Tanya yelled from the back ground before grabbing the phone from Aisha's hands. "Don't worry, if I have to tie her up and drag her to New Jersey myself, I'll do it. I can't wait to see you all."
"Well we'll be glad to see you. Just tell me when and where and I'll be there to pick you up." Kimberly laughed as she could hear Aisha protesting in the background. "And you can tell Aisha that Rocky is not seeing anyone that we know of."
"Really?" Tanya laughed. "Did you hear that Sha? Rocky's still on the market."
"Why did I ever tell anyone about that night?!?" Aisha said before throwing up her arms. "Fine, but if there is bloodshed, you are both to blame."
"Bloodshed?" Tanya grinned at her companion. "Hardly. You two will probably try to jump each other's..."
"Enough, enough!"
Kimberly laughed.
"Oh come on," Tanya teased. "Since I don't have a man of my own to play with and haven't been on a date in what seems like forever, I have to get my thrills vicariously through you guys."
"Well get them through Kimberly then cause this girl is not going anywhere near a..."
"Okay, you two." Kimberly shook her head and glanced about the living room, noting that she had to remember to feed the fishes before they starved to death. If Trini came home to find her very beautiful and very expensive tropical fishes dead, there will be bloodshed. And I'd be the one to shed the blood. "You two have definitely been spending too much time together. Come here and spend some time with us."
"You bet," Tanya grinned. "We'll call you once we get the details."
"Okay, see you soon."
"Bye."
"Bye."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 18, 2004
Jason Scott's Resident
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"So you'd have no problems converting the gazebo back?" Rocky asked the quiet little man with the two pencils behind his ears. "Jason said to call you and that..."
"Mr. Scott and I have talked extensively on the phone." Mr. Wilson smiled slight, wrinkling up his already well-lined face. "Good solid young man, that Mr. Scott."
"Jason is a very good guy." Rocky grinned, glancing at the little sketchpad in Mr. Wilson's hands. "What's that?"
"Mr. Scott's designs. He wanted something very special and asked that we build it specifically to his blueprints. It's going to be a real beauty."
"I'll bet." Rocky should have known that Jason would have it all covered. When it came to his house, Jason wanted the best. "So, when can you get started."
"Right away. We'll have this puppy up and running in a week's time. Cleared up my schedule and all that." Mr. Wilson tore off a pink slip of paper. "Give this to Mr. Scott when he returns from his trip. We've already agreed on the price and all the materials. This should cover everything."
"All right, thank you."
"You know," Mr. Wilson looked at the magnificently restored Victorian Mansion. "He did a wonderful job with the house. The boy needs to get himself a good wife though. Don't know why you youngsters wait so long these days."
"Just haven't found the right one, I guess." Rocky shrugged his shoulder.
"Then you keep looking boy cause there's nothing like a good woman to complete a man's life. My Linda and I have been married for over thirty years and we couldn't be happier." The old man smiled fondly at the thought of his wife. "Didn't know what life was until I knew her."
Rocky was touched that even after all this time, the man seemed very much in love with his wife. "You're a lucky man then."
"Don't I know it."
~~~~~
"What's up?" Tommy asked as he sipped the coffee on the table.
"Looks like Jason covered everything before he told me to meet with Mr. Wilson. They are going to turn the sauna into a enclosed gazebo with glass windows and a hot tub inside. They are going to expand the gazebo so that it would have room in there for some decorations. The man is going to go all out with this one."
"Sounds like Jason." Tommy grinned. "He's never happy unless he's doing something interesting. Did you know he bought a house in Chicago and completely redid it before selling it for a profit and moving here."
"Damn."
"He's eccentric that way."
"I'd say." Rocky shook his head and took a seat across from the table from his former leader. "So, what are you doing here? I thought you and Kimberly were practically living out of each other's pockets these days."
"Came to get some clothes and to get some stuff from the market. We need to eat too you know."
Rocky grinned. "And here I thought the two of you can survive on sex alone."
"You're just jealous cause you're not getting any lately." Tommy laughed good naturally.
Rocky sighed with resignation. "I can't even remember a time when my life was normal. And dates? Who's got time for that when you're trying to track down the bank records of certain statesman or congressional misconduct? God, what I won't give for a less than 'exciting' life."
Tommy frowned in sympathy. "What's wrong?" It was unlike Rocky to be so sad.
"Nothing. Nothing at all."
"Please, I know you better than that."
"He's anticipating the arrival of a certain former yellow ranger we both knew from childhood." Adam offered from the doorway. He looked ready to drop for several hours. "Any coffee left?"
"Where have you been?" Tommy asked as he got up and poured his friend a cup of strong java left in the pot.
"Just got off a power shift. In serious need of sleep." He sipped the coffee slowly and knew instantly who made it. "God Rocky, do you always have to brew it to death."
"I like mine strong." Rocky piped up.
"Strong? This is lethal." Adam sighed and poured the black mud down the sink. "Wake me for dinner someone. I need to drop for a while. And Rocky, for goodness sakes, I'm sure Aisha would not be so tacky as to bring up your one-night-stand. Just let it go." Then walked out the kitchen door toward the back stairs.
Tommy sat there stunned, "What one-night-stand?"
Rocky groaned and put his face in his hands. "Adam and his stupid mouth."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 18, 2004
The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada
"Dinner in or out?" Jason asked as he pushed the blue prints away. He was tired to looking at them.
"In," Trini answered as her fingers continued to fly across the key board. "I want to finish this brief and notice of complaint before we hit the courts tomorrow. If we can get it filed tomorrow, we can be out of this place in a week's time."
"Okay, room service it is then." He picked up theone and wavered a moment. "You want anything special?
"A big pot of vanilla favored coffee." Trini mumbled, her mind still on the task at hand. "And ask them to bring a big pint of Brayer's Vanilla ice cream."
"Would you like to go down to the kitchen and make something?" Jason teased remembering her sweet tooth when she gets busy.
"If I didn't think the chief would freak out, I'd ask." She grinned at him.
"Okay, ice and coffee. Stake and potatoes okay?"
"Lots of carrots and cream corn soup too."
"Sounds good."
"Jason?" she looked up with bright eyes.
"What?"
"I like this."
He knew exactly what she was talking about. "Me too, darling. I like this a whole lot."
She smiled.
~~~~~~~~~~
July 19, 2004
Robert Cranston's Home
579 Willow Brook Ave.
Angle Grove, CA 94531
"So, you're moving again?" Mrs. Maria Cranston looked at her son fondly. The boy had grown up nicely and knew his own mind. "You've certainly do a lot of traveling. There was that time when you disappeared for almost three years. Darling, I hope this isn't going to be anything like that again."
"No Mom," Billy smiled reassuringly. He could hardly tell his parents that he did a stunt on another planet for a time. "I'm just going to relocate into an area a little more populated by my friends." He stirred the tea that his mother served after every meal. "Did I tell you that Kimberly and Tommy are back together again?"
"Now let me see," Mr. Robert Cranston scratched his head. "Kimberly was your childhood friend that went to the Olympics right? And Tommy is the architect?"
"No dad, Jason is the architect and Tommy is the stock broker." Billy smiled; his father could never seem to get his friends straight. "And yes, Kim went to the Olympics. She's fashion critic now with Vogue magazine."
"Oh, that's so nice." His mother smiled. "I remember when Tommy and Kimberly were dating in high school. They were such a sweet couple. But you kids always seem to be running off to do something or other at that time."
"Dear," Mr. Cranston smiled at his wife of thirty years fondly. "They were teenagers, they always had something to do back then."
Billy would have laughed if he hadn't thought it completely rude of him. His parent's memories aren't what they use to be but they still had that wonderfully charming bond between them that was so beautiful to behold. He missed them more than he had thought he could. As Dorothy of Kansas once said, there's no place like home.
"Hey, Mom, Dad, I'm going to go out now. I'm going to meet up with Zack and spend some quality time with him."
"Oh I remember Zack." Mrs. Cranston smiled fondly. "Such a nice man. Remember him, darling? He did that wonderful dance number for the talent show when Billy was....oh he must have been only sixteen or so."
"Yes dear," Mr. Cranston nodded his head with a smile.
Billy smiled and shook his head as he headed for the door. They were so wonderfully charming that he couldn't help but be amused just spending time with him. He missed them so much, especially those years that he spent away from Earth. Technology wise, the aliens certainly had one up on earth but food wise...there's nothing like a big fat burger with too much oil and greasy beyond belief.
Taking his time, he drove down to Charlie's Heath and Happiness Bar, the site of where Ernie's old place used to be. He missed Angel Grove with all it's familiar sites and old stomping grounds.
"Billy," Zack laughed as he pulled his friend into a hug worthy of a bear. "How's my favorite genius?"
"Same as always," Billy grinned and sat down at a table. "How are you doing Zack?"
"I'm healthy and ready to got the mile." Zack nodded his head. "And I missed you all."
"Being in training didn't exactly give you a lot of time to come see us in the various cities that we were all stationed at for a time." Billy glanced over the list of health drinks. "Of course now that we're all conjugating in the East..."
"I'll make sure to come visit more." Zack laughed. "Man, I haven't been away from all you guys this long in what seems like forever. I always had at least one of your around with me. Peace Conference was Trini and Jason, then college was Kimberly, dance school had Kat and Tommy near by but this Broadway training thing...."
"But it's well worth it," Billy motioned to the waitress. "I've seen you dance, Zack. You have certainly moved into your elements."
"And you've learned to talk less like computer, when did that happen?" Zack grinned.
Billy shook his head. "I had to learn sooner or later. Trini use to say that if I'd just relax..."
"Speaking of Trini, heard anything from her lately? I know that she and Jason are in Denver together and..."
"Wait a minute," Billy shook his head not sure he heard correctly. "They're in Denver? Togther?"
"Work related." Zack explained. "From Kimberly, they were ironically assigned together and... what? What?"
Billy grinned. "I wonder how things are going between those two."
"What are you saying?" Zack asked, frowning in confusion. "Billy?"
"No, I was just wondering," Billy smiled at the waitress as she brought them their drinks. "Be kind of interesting don't you think if the old group suddenly had another couple?"
"But Trini and Jason?" Completely disbelief crossed over the original black ranger's face. "I don't think so. They're too good of people and too old of friends to get together like that."
"You think so?" Billy asked with some surprise. "I would think a romantic like you would be more than willing to believe that two of our best friends are finding happiness in each other's arms."
"I would be more that willing to believe if it were any two but those two. Trini is too reasonable and Jason is too responsible to do something like that." Zack shook his head. "No, I don't see it."
Billy smiled. "Okay, I guess it is kind of hard to imagine those two together. So, tell me about your new lady love."
Zack choked on his drink. "How did you..."
"You'd be surprised at what you learn through the Internet." Billy grinned. "Now that I've succeeded in getting your attention, how about we talk about why I really asked you to meet me for lunch."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 19, 2004
The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada
"Hand me that folder," Trini asked as she pushed another one into her briefcase. "The one with all the green papers in it."
"You need to relax. We don't leave for court until morning." Jason said handing her the big white binder.
"I want everything ready so I get some sleep tonight." Trini said pushing a lock of hair out of her face. "Hey, did you want to get dinner?"
"Yeah, I made reservations for us at the MGM Grand. They have a little restaurant there call the Gatsby. It's suppose to be a wonderful little place that serve meals to die for."
"We're going out?" She looked at him surprised.
"Yes, on a date." He grinned at her.
"A date?"
"Yes, a real one." Jason pulled the closet open and pulled out a blue suit. "I don't think we've actually been on one yet."
Trini's eyes were big. "No, I guess we haven't."
"Well, then this will be our first date." He grinned at her. "Did you bring a nice dress?"
"Yes, I have a..." she shook her head. "A date? Doesn't that seem kind of..."
"What?"
"Normal?"
He laughed. "Yeah, I guess it does. But we can do normal every once in a while, can't we?"
"I guess," she pulled a bronze toned dress from a garment bag. "It's just..." She appeared to be having a little trouble wrapping her mind around the idea. "Can we have sex later anyways since I generally don't sleep with a guy on the first date?"
Jason reached over and pulled her into a tight hug. "You can have whatever you want."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 20, 2004
Jason Scott's Resident
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"I hate you." Rocky said with a growl. "I really really hate you."
"Yeah I know," Adam grinned as he propped his feet on the coffee table. "But you know, I didn't do it to annoy you. Tanya asked if they could stay here and I said sure since I'm pretty sure Jason would be more than happy to let them stay here with us."
"I totally despise you." Rocky muttered as he sat down with the bottle of vodka and a nice little crystal glass that had been a gift from his mother.
"Get over it." Adam said holding out his coffee mug toward the bottle. "And pour some of that here."
Rocky reached over and poured the liquor. "How could you? And after you 'accidentally' told Tommy about that night."
"Sorry about that," not looking one bite sorry about it at all. "My brain was all muddy from the lack of sleep."
"I'll bet." Rocky sulked in his seat and poured the red-hot liquid down his throat.
"When are you going to admit wanting another taste?" Adam said quite seriously now. "I've known you all my life, Rocky. And I've never seen you as hung up on anyone as I've seen you with Aisha. You two are just so..."
"Don't," Rocky shook his head. "I don't want to hear your opinions on my states of being where Aisha Campbell is concerned."
"You were half in love with you when you took her to Monte Carlo." Adam stated with complete conviction. "I know you were. Then when you guys ended in bed together, it just confirmed what I thought Aisha's feelings were and..."
"Stop it, Adam," Rocky looked up sharply. "I don't want to talk about that night or any kind of possibilities associated with it. I just want to forget and..."
"You're lying through your teeth and we both know it." Adam frowned at Rocky. His friend had never been this stubborn before. "You can tell yourself all kinds of nice explanations and rationalities but we both know the truth. You simply have to face up to it before it tears apart what has been a very long and very good friendship."
"And you don't think our night together has already done that?!?" Rocky asked, his face contorted in pain. "God, what the hell was I thinking taking her to bed like that?"
"You were in lo...."
"Shut up, Adam." Rocky got up. "Just shut the hell up."
Adam shook his head. "If I ever fall in love, I sure the hell hope that I'm nothing like you. You're an idiot, Rocky. And that's a fact."
Rocky muttered as he headed up the stairs toward his room, "Like I didn't know that."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 21, 2004
Trini Kwan's Condo
168 Apple Grove Drive #A
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"When?" Kimberly shouted into the phone.
"I'd say we would be landing in Angel Grove in about two hours time." Tanya said with a quick grin for Aisha who was having some trouble keeping her amusement to herself.
"Boy, you weren't kidding when you said that you'd be spontaneous when you move." Kimberly shook her head and glanced at Tommy. "So when do you head this way?"
"We're hoping by the end of this week. Maybe Saturday or Sunday." She took a sip of the soda in front of her, the first carbonated anything in over a year now. "My parents are going to try to keep me there for at least this full week. But we'll see about swinging your way hopefully by Sunday at the latest."
"Well, you know that you're welcomed here." Tommy rolled his eyes at Kimberly and shook his head. "Tommy wants to know if he needs to pick you guys up at the airport."
"Maybe, I'm not sure yet." Tanya said as she watched Aisha out of the corner of her eyes. "And as for accommodations, Adam offered up the futons in Jason's family room for us." Aisha's eyes went big and she choked on her drink. "Aisha is thrilled, as you can hear."
Gasping for air, Aisha was anything but thrilled. In fact, she looked ready to murder her flight companion. If she could ever caught her breath again.
Kimberly put a hand over her mouth to keep from laughing out loud. "Oh Tanya, you're so bad."
"I know." She grinned and helpfully patted Aisha on the back as the girl continued to cough and wheeze. "I'll talk to you when we've got our plans more patted down. Bye."
"Bye, behave yourself."
"Don't I always?" Tanya asked sweetly.
"Like right now?" Kimberly laughed. "Bye."
Tommy grinned as he watched his little darling laugh until there were tears in her eyes. "Okay, you want to share the news?"
"Oh god," Kim took a deep breath to calm herself. "Rocky is going to get a jolt worth time times his weight in gold."
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teaser line from the next chapter: "Dates, movies, dancing, and of course the sex will definitely have to continue."
By Didi
Disclaimer: I do not own the Power Rangers or any of the characters.
Summary: They're all grown up and separated. Just when you thought it was all over for the old gang, fate throws them together once more.
Rating: R for language and content at times.
Acknowledgements: Ozmadayus (Shawn), you are the best. Your writing has always been an inspiration to us all that want to write a little better. Thanks for everything.
Note: I am writing this story so I'm not tempted to throw something hard and deadly in frustrating moments. I'm not sure where I want to take this story but I promise to try to make it fun and interesting for everyone that reads it.
~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Twenty-Six
~~~~~~~~~~
July 18, 2004
The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada
Trini laid on her side and studied Jason's face in the moonlight and neon strip lights from the window. It was almost dawn but the moon was still glowing strong, throwing a wonderful light across the bed on Jason's features. He was a beautiful man. Not simply his handsome features, but the way he was kind and gentle. It was the way he could always put people at ease, be they young or old, beautiful or less than pleasant to the eyes, strong or societies' most vulnerable. Everyone could trust Jason Lee Scott with his big gentle hands and ready smile.
She trusted him. She trusted him with her life more than once more than a lifetime ago. They've shared secrets, fears, understanding, and experiences. Trini remembered a conversation with him some time ago, after he had left her in Switzerland with the Peace Conference while he was called back into action by Tommy to fulfill the role of the much-needed Gold Ranger. Jason had bitterly complained about the life he lead where secrecy was a way of life.
It had never been easy for any of them. Being Power Rangers had meant sacrificing much of their social life to battles and hours in the Command Center being patched up after combat. Dates were hard to keep due to unexpected attacks always cropping up at the most inopportune times. Heck, Trini had basically given up dating in high school while she was the controller of the Sabertooth Tiger Zord. Jason had complained that it was killing his love life, always having to run out on his dates or missing dates due to a sudden attack by their enemies.
The worse part was the secrecy. None of them had ever been good liars. It was usually so obvious to see when of them was telling less than the truth. It made for difficulties. The lame excuses were less than ideals when dealing with emotions of those you are interested in. And not being about to share their lives completely? It made for even worse communication.
But with Jason, Trini didn't have to hide her past. He shared it with her. All the battles, the victories, the defeats, and Zordon. They had shared the wonderful sense of being a part of something so special. She could talk to him so easily about her days as a Ranger, the problems they shared, and the sense of wonder when first encountering their zords. It was so good to be able to be so free with someone that you...
She gasped, not quite believing her own thoughts.
"Penny for your thoughts?" Jason asked with a quiet smile on his face. "What's wrong?" as she stared at him in disbelief. "Trini?"
She blinked salty tears back.
"Hey," sitting up slowly, he reached for her, pulling her up and into his arms. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing," she shook her head and sniffed. "I'm sorry I woke you. Go back to bed."
"Hey," he rubbed her back. "You know that I'm going to be able to rest if I don't find out what's wrong."
She pulled back and smiled at him through watery eyes. "Really, I'm fine. Just remembering some things from the past.
"Good or bad?" he asked slightly cautious, not trusting a woman's tears. He was never good at gauging whether tears were of joy or upset.
"Good," she smiled and kissed his lips. "Really they are." She kissed him again. "Make love to me, Jason."
He didn't need to be asked twice. His lips sought hers out even as his mind whirled. She had said that she wanted to make love, not have sex. If I'm not mistaken, she's definitely warmed up considerably to the idea of being with me. Life is good again.
~~~~~~~~~~
July 18, 2004
Trini Kwan's Condo
168 Apple Grove Drive #A
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"Come on, Aisha. This is ridiculous." Kimberly said as she shifted on the couch. Tommy had gone back to his place for more clothes plus to get some milk and eggs since they were out. The only thing either one of them knew to make without creating a disaster area out of the kitchen was scramble eggs. "You have to come."
"Kim, did you forget who else moved to New Jersey with the rest of you people?"
"Look, you were excited about coming here only a week ago." Kimberly argued. She was determined to bring the girl here since there was no chance of her leaving the East Coast any time soon. "You can stay with Trini and me and never have to see him."
"Right," Aisha rolled her eyes. "You guys are practically living next door to one another. Plus from everything I hear, you and your man are getting it on."
"Okay, why does everyone seem so interested in my life all of a sudden?"
"Not your life my dear. It's your sex life that we want the juicy details about."
"Shut up." Kimberly laughed with amusement. "Now, back to what we were talking about before. By the way, where's Tanya?"
"Sitting next to me grinning like a fool."
"I resent that!" Tanya yelled from the back ground before grabbing the phone from Aisha's hands. "Don't worry, if I have to tie her up and drag her to New Jersey myself, I'll do it. I can't wait to see you all."
"Well we'll be glad to see you. Just tell me when and where and I'll be there to pick you up." Kimberly laughed as she could hear Aisha protesting in the background. "And you can tell Aisha that Rocky is not seeing anyone that we know of."
"Really?" Tanya laughed. "Did you hear that Sha? Rocky's still on the market."
"Why did I ever tell anyone about that night?!?" Aisha said before throwing up her arms. "Fine, but if there is bloodshed, you are both to blame."
"Bloodshed?" Tanya grinned at her companion. "Hardly. You two will probably try to jump each other's..."
"Enough, enough!"
Kimberly laughed.
"Oh come on," Tanya teased. "Since I don't have a man of my own to play with and haven't been on a date in what seems like forever, I have to get my thrills vicariously through you guys."
"Well get them through Kimberly then cause this girl is not going anywhere near a..."
"Okay, you two." Kimberly shook her head and glanced about the living room, noting that she had to remember to feed the fishes before they starved to death. If Trini came home to find her very beautiful and very expensive tropical fishes dead, there will be bloodshed. And I'd be the one to shed the blood. "You two have definitely been spending too much time together. Come here and spend some time with us."
"You bet," Tanya grinned. "We'll call you once we get the details."
"Okay, see you soon."
"Bye."
"Bye."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 18, 2004
Jason Scott's Resident
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"So you'd have no problems converting the gazebo back?" Rocky asked the quiet little man with the two pencils behind his ears. "Jason said to call you and that..."
"Mr. Scott and I have talked extensively on the phone." Mr. Wilson smiled slight, wrinkling up his already well-lined face. "Good solid young man, that Mr. Scott."
"Jason is a very good guy." Rocky grinned, glancing at the little sketchpad in Mr. Wilson's hands. "What's that?"
"Mr. Scott's designs. He wanted something very special and asked that we build it specifically to his blueprints. It's going to be a real beauty."
"I'll bet." Rocky should have known that Jason would have it all covered. When it came to his house, Jason wanted the best. "So, when can you get started."
"Right away. We'll have this puppy up and running in a week's time. Cleared up my schedule and all that." Mr. Wilson tore off a pink slip of paper. "Give this to Mr. Scott when he returns from his trip. We've already agreed on the price and all the materials. This should cover everything."
"All right, thank you."
"You know," Mr. Wilson looked at the magnificently restored Victorian Mansion. "He did a wonderful job with the house. The boy needs to get himself a good wife though. Don't know why you youngsters wait so long these days."
"Just haven't found the right one, I guess." Rocky shrugged his shoulder.
"Then you keep looking boy cause there's nothing like a good woman to complete a man's life. My Linda and I have been married for over thirty years and we couldn't be happier." The old man smiled fondly at the thought of his wife. "Didn't know what life was until I knew her."
Rocky was touched that even after all this time, the man seemed very much in love with his wife. "You're a lucky man then."
"Don't I know it."
~~~~~
"What's up?" Tommy asked as he sipped the coffee on the table.
"Looks like Jason covered everything before he told me to meet with Mr. Wilson. They are going to turn the sauna into a enclosed gazebo with glass windows and a hot tub inside. They are going to expand the gazebo so that it would have room in there for some decorations. The man is going to go all out with this one."
"Sounds like Jason." Tommy grinned. "He's never happy unless he's doing something interesting. Did you know he bought a house in Chicago and completely redid it before selling it for a profit and moving here."
"Damn."
"He's eccentric that way."
"I'd say." Rocky shook his head and took a seat across from the table from his former leader. "So, what are you doing here? I thought you and Kimberly were practically living out of each other's pockets these days."
"Came to get some clothes and to get some stuff from the market. We need to eat too you know."
Rocky grinned. "And here I thought the two of you can survive on sex alone."
"You're just jealous cause you're not getting any lately." Tommy laughed good naturally.
Rocky sighed with resignation. "I can't even remember a time when my life was normal. And dates? Who's got time for that when you're trying to track down the bank records of certain statesman or congressional misconduct? God, what I won't give for a less than 'exciting' life."
Tommy frowned in sympathy. "What's wrong?" It was unlike Rocky to be so sad.
"Nothing. Nothing at all."
"Please, I know you better than that."
"He's anticipating the arrival of a certain former yellow ranger we both knew from childhood." Adam offered from the doorway. He looked ready to drop for several hours. "Any coffee left?"
"Where have you been?" Tommy asked as he got up and poured his friend a cup of strong java left in the pot.
"Just got off a power shift. In serious need of sleep." He sipped the coffee slowly and knew instantly who made it. "God Rocky, do you always have to brew it to death."
"I like mine strong." Rocky piped up.
"Strong? This is lethal." Adam sighed and poured the black mud down the sink. "Wake me for dinner someone. I need to drop for a while. And Rocky, for goodness sakes, I'm sure Aisha would not be so tacky as to bring up your one-night-stand. Just let it go." Then walked out the kitchen door toward the back stairs.
Tommy sat there stunned, "What one-night-stand?"
Rocky groaned and put his face in his hands. "Adam and his stupid mouth."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 18, 2004
The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada
"Dinner in or out?" Jason asked as he pushed the blue prints away. He was tired to looking at them.
"In," Trini answered as her fingers continued to fly across the key board. "I want to finish this brief and notice of complaint before we hit the courts tomorrow. If we can get it filed tomorrow, we can be out of this place in a week's time."
"Okay, room service it is then." He picked up theone and wavered a moment. "You want anything special?
"A big pot of vanilla favored coffee." Trini mumbled, her mind still on the task at hand. "And ask them to bring a big pint of Brayer's Vanilla ice cream."
"Would you like to go down to the kitchen and make something?" Jason teased remembering her sweet tooth when she gets busy.
"If I didn't think the chief would freak out, I'd ask." She grinned at him.
"Okay, ice and coffee. Stake and potatoes okay?"
"Lots of carrots and cream corn soup too."
"Sounds good."
"Jason?" she looked up with bright eyes.
"What?"
"I like this."
He knew exactly what she was talking about. "Me too, darling. I like this a whole lot."
She smiled.
~~~~~~~~~~
July 19, 2004
Robert Cranston's Home
579 Willow Brook Ave.
Angle Grove, CA 94531
"So, you're moving again?" Mrs. Maria Cranston looked at her son fondly. The boy had grown up nicely and knew his own mind. "You've certainly do a lot of traveling. There was that time when you disappeared for almost three years. Darling, I hope this isn't going to be anything like that again."
"No Mom," Billy smiled reassuringly. He could hardly tell his parents that he did a stunt on another planet for a time. "I'm just going to relocate into an area a little more populated by my friends." He stirred the tea that his mother served after every meal. "Did I tell you that Kimberly and Tommy are back together again?"
"Now let me see," Mr. Robert Cranston scratched his head. "Kimberly was your childhood friend that went to the Olympics right? And Tommy is the architect?"
"No dad, Jason is the architect and Tommy is the stock broker." Billy smiled; his father could never seem to get his friends straight. "And yes, Kim went to the Olympics. She's fashion critic now with Vogue magazine."
"Oh, that's so nice." His mother smiled. "I remember when Tommy and Kimberly were dating in high school. They were such a sweet couple. But you kids always seem to be running off to do something or other at that time."
"Dear," Mr. Cranston smiled at his wife of thirty years fondly. "They were teenagers, they always had something to do back then."
Billy would have laughed if he hadn't thought it completely rude of him. His parent's memories aren't what they use to be but they still had that wonderfully charming bond between them that was so beautiful to behold. He missed them more than he had thought he could. As Dorothy of Kansas once said, there's no place like home.
"Hey, Mom, Dad, I'm going to go out now. I'm going to meet up with Zack and spend some quality time with him."
"Oh I remember Zack." Mrs. Cranston smiled fondly. "Such a nice man. Remember him, darling? He did that wonderful dance number for the talent show when Billy was....oh he must have been only sixteen or so."
"Yes dear," Mr. Cranston nodded his head with a smile.
Billy smiled and shook his head as he headed for the door. They were so wonderfully charming that he couldn't help but be amused just spending time with him. He missed them so much, especially those years that he spent away from Earth. Technology wise, the aliens certainly had one up on earth but food wise...there's nothing like a big fat burger with too much oil and greasy beyond belief.
Taking his time, he drove down to Charlie's Heath and Happiness Bar, the site of where Ernie's old place used to be. He missed Angel Grove with all it's familiar sites and old stomping grounds.
"Billy," Zack laughed as he pulled his friend into a hug worthy of a bear. "How's my favorite genius?"
"Same as always," Billy grinned and sat down at a table. "How are you doing Zack?"
"I'm healthy and ready to got the mile." Zack nodded his head. "And I missed you all."
"Being in training didn't exactly give you a lot of time to come see us in the various cities that we were all stationed at for a time." Billy glanced over the list of health drinks. "Of course now that we're all conjugating in the East..."
"I'll make sure to come visit more." Zack laughed. "Man, I haven't been away from all you guys this long in what seems like forever. I always had at least one of your around with me. Peace Conference was Trini and Jason, then college was Kimberly, dance school had Kat and Tommy near by but this Broadway training thing...."
"But it's well worth it," Billy motioned to the waitress. "I've seen you dance, Zack. You have certainly moved into your elements."
"And you've learned to talk less like computer, when did that happen?" Zack grinned.
Billy shook his head. "I had to learn sooner or later. Trini use to say that if I'd just relax..."
"Speaking of Trini, heard anything from her lately? I know that she and Jason are in Denver together and..."
"Wait a minute," Billy shook his head not sure he heard correctly. "They're in Denver? Togther?"
"Work related." Zack explained. "From Kimberly, they were ironically assigned together and... what? What?"
Billy grinned. "I wonder how things are going between those two."
"What are you saying?" Zack asked, frowning in confusion. "Billy?"
"No, I was just wondering," Billy smiled at the waitress as she brought them their drinks. "Be kind of interesting don't you think if the old group suddenly had another couple?"
"But Trini and Jason?" Completely disbelief crossed over the original black ranger's face. "I don't think so. They're too good of people and too old of friends to get together like that."
"You think so?" Billy asked with some surprise. "I would think a romantic like you would be more than willing to believe that two of our best friends are finding happiness in each other's arms."
"I would be more that willing to believe if it were any two but those two. Trini is too reasonable and Jason is too responsible to do something like that." Zack shook his head. "No, I don't see it."
Billy smiled. "Okay, I guess it is kind of hard to imagine those two together. So, tell me about your new lady love."
Zack choked on his drink. "How did you..."
"You'd be surprised at what you learn through the Internet." Billy grinned. "Now that I've succeeded in getting your attention, how about we talk about why I really asked you to meet me for lunch."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 19, 2004
The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada
"Hand me that folder," Trini asked as she pushed another one into her briefcase. "The one with all the green papers in it."
"You need to relax. We don't leave for court until morning." Jason said handing her the big white binder.
"I want everything ready so I get some sleep tonight." Trini said pushing a lock of hair out of her face. "Hey, did you want to get dinner?"
"Yeah, I made reservations for us at the MGM Grand. They have a little restaurant there call the Gatsby. It's suppose to be a wonderful little place that serve meals to die for."
"We're going out?" She looked at him surprised.
"Yes, on a date." He grinned at her.
"A date?"
"Yes, a real one." Jason pulled the closet open and pulled out a blue suit. "I don't think we've actually been on one yet."
Trini's eyes were big. "No, I guess we haven't."
"Well, then this will be our first date." He grinned at her. "Did you bring a nice dress?"
"Yes, I have a..." she shook her head. "A date? Doesn't that seem kind of..."
"What?"
"Normal?"
He laughed. "Yeah, I guess it does. But we can do normal every once in a while, can't we?"
"I guess," she pulled a bronze toned dress from a garment bag. "It's just..." She appeared to be having a little trouble wrapping her mind around the idea. "Can we have sex later anyways since I generally don't sleep with a guy on the first date?"
Jason reached over and pulled her into a tight hug. "You can have whatever you want."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 20, 2004
Jason Scott's Resident
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"I hate you." Rocky said with a growl. "I really really hate you."
"Yeah I know," Adam grinned as he propped his feet on the coffee table. "But you know, I didn't do it to annoy you. Tanya asked if they could stay here and I said sure since I'm pretty sure Jason would be more than happy to let them stay here with us."
"I totally despise you." Rocky muttered as he sat down with the bottle of vodka and a nice little crystal glass that had been a gift from his mother.
"Get over it." Adam said holding out his coffee mug toward the bottle. "And pour some of that here."
Rocky reached over and poured the liquor. "How could you? And after you 'accidentally' told Tommy about that night."
"Sorry about that," not looking one bite sorry about it at all. "My brain was all muddy from the lack of sleep."
"I'll bet." Rocky sulked in his seat and poured the red-hot liquid down his throat.
"When are you going to admit wanting another taste?" Adam said quite seriously now. "I've known you all my life, Rocky. And I've never seen you as hung up on anyone as I've seen you with Aisha. You two are just so..."
"Don't," Rocky shook his head. "I don't want to hear your opinions on my states of being where Aisha Campbell is concerned."
"You were half in love with you when you took her to Monte Carlo." Adam stated with complete conviction. "I know you were. Then when you guys ended in bed together, it just confirmed what I thought Aisha's feelings were and..."
"Stop it, Adam," Rocky looked up sharply. "I don't want to talk about that night or any kind of possibilities associated with it. I just want to forget and..."
"You're lying through your teeth and we both know it." Adam frowned at Rocky. His friend had never been this stubborn before. "You can tell yourself all kinds of nice explanations and rationalities but we both know the truth. You simply have to face up to it before it tears apart what has been a very long and very good friendship."
"And you don't think our night together has already done that?!?" Rocky asked, his face contorted in pain. "God, what the hell was I thinking taking her to bed like that?"
"You were in lo...."
"Shut up, Adam." Rocky got up. "Just shut the hell up."
Adam shook his head. "If I ever fall in love, I sure the hell hope that I'm nothing like you. You're an idiot, Rocky. And that's a fact."
Rocky muttered as he headed up the stairs toward his room, "Like I didn't know that."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 21, 2004
Trini Kwan's Condo
168 Apple Grove Drive #A
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"When?" Kimberly shouted into the phone.
"I'd say we would be landing in Angel Grove in about two hours time." Tanya said with a quick grin for Aisha who was having some trouble keeping her amusement to herself.
"Boy, you weren't kidding when you said that you'd be spontaneous when you move." Kimberly shook her head and glanced at Tommy. "So when do you head this way?"
"We're hoping by the end of this week. Maybe Saturday or Sunday." She took a sip of the soda in front of her, the first carbonated anything in over a year now. "My parents are going to try to keep me there for at least this full week. But we'll see about swinging your way hopefully by Sunday at the latest."
"Well, you know that you're welcomed here." Tommy rolled his eyes at Kimberly and shook his head. "Tommy wants to know if he needs to pick you guys up at the airport."
"Maybe, I'm not sure yet." Tanya said as she watched Aisha out of the corner of her eyes. "And as for accommodations, Adam offered up the futons in Jason's family room for us." Aisha's eyes went big and she choked on her drink. "Aisha is thrilled, as you can hear."
Gasping for air, Aisha was anything but thrilled. In fact, she looked ready to murder her flight companion. If she could ever caught her breath again.
Kimberly put a hand over her mouth to keep from laughing out loud. "Oh Tanya, you're so bad."
"I know." She grinned and helpfully patted Aisha on the back as the girl continued to cough and wheeze. "I'll talk to you when we've got our plans more patted down. Bye."
"Bye, behave yourself."
"Don't I always?" Tanya asked sweetly.
"Like right now?" Kimberly laughed. "Bye."
Tommy grinned as he watched his little darling laugh until there were tears in her eyes. "Okay, you want to share the news?"
"Oh god," Kim took a deep breath to calm herself. "Rocky is going to get a jolt worth time times his weight in gold."
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Teaser line from the next chapter: "Dates, movies, dancing, and of course the sex will definitely have to continue."