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: Hanspam, you poor thing. I hope you are feeling better and here's a little something to help you pass the time.
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 Thirty-Six
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Jason Scott's Residence
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
Jason awoke to the sensation of warm lips pressed softly against his own. "Hum... Now this is the way to wake up."
"Like it?" Trini asked as she smiled gently at him as she leaned over the side of the bed lazily looked into his misty eyes.
"Oh, you better believe it." He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into the bed with him. She was a warm bundle in the morning. "When did you wake up?"
"About half an hour before? I thought I would make something for everyone this morning." Her fingers ran themselves through the thick disheveled hair. "When did I fall asleep last night? Last thing I remember was that you were going to make tea for me."
"That's pretty much it." He brushed a lock of hair away from her face and tucked the strand behind her ear. "I went into the kitchen to make tea and talk to Billy and Zack. I came back; you had your head on top of your notes, a pen still in hand, and sleeping sound as a baby. You didn't even stir when I picked you up." He frowned with concern. "Definitely time for you to see that doctor of yours."
She nodded her head. "I guess so. My energy level seems to be dropping. But if it's any consolation, I had a really good night's sleep even if it was without you next to me."
He smiled. "I missed you too."
Trini stared into his eyes. It was strange how quickly she became use to having his warm body next to her at nights. He was a quiet sleeper, he didn't particularly move much except to cuddle her. She enjoyed being able to fall asleep to the sound of his heartbeat and waking up with him smiling at her in his usual quiet manner. "Are you always this cheerful in the morning?"
The grin was accompanied by a nod of the head. "Especially when I have you to wake up to."
"Hey, I have a question for you."
"Why didn't I sneak into your room last night?"
She chuckled. "No, you silly though that was a question that was in my mind this morning when I find myself not thirty feet from your bedroom and no lover in sight."
"Okay, if that's not yet, what did you want to know?"
"What was all that about conspiracy last night?"
Jason blinked at her startled then his eyes twinkled and an explosion of laughter came from his lips.
"Did I say something funny?"
~~~~~
"Hi, Southwestern Airline? I'm sorry that I'm calling so early but I would like to book a seat for Flight 32 next Friday the 7th."
"To Australia, sir?"
"Yeah."
"Will that be round trip or one-way?"
There was a pause. "One-way."
~~~~~
Rocky woke up with the sensation of a warm body cuddled next to him, a small delicate hand callused from many hours of good willed work curled into a fist on his chest. I'm either in heaven or in hell. Either way he hadn't gotten much sleep last night. The hours spent staring at Aisha's sleeping form had been wonderfully blissful but also reminded him that he couldn't never have what his heart desperately wanted.
Aisha knew the minute he was awake. She could feel his warm breath on her hand and knew that she should probably move. But god, it felt so good to lie next to him like this again. Her heart ached with knowing that she could be this close but be so far away. Life sucks like hell.
Rocky wondered for a moment what Aisha was thinking. He could sense that she was awake but was making no move to break away from him. Considering he is the one on the bottom right now, he really didn't have much of a choice but lay there and wait for her next move.
She realized that with all the years Rocky spent studying martial arts, he probably was very good at sensing subtle movements, like her coming awake. She lifted her head and looked into big wide-open eyes. "Hi." Lame beyond belief.
He smiled almost glad that she hadn't moved from him yet. "Good morning."
"What time is it?" Waiting for him to tell her to move.
"I think it's just after dawn so it should be almost seven o'clock."
She nodded her head. "Guess that our imprisonment is about to end." Am I glad or sadden that I'm losing this time of being alone with him?
"I guess," he wanted to say something but was too afraid that she would pull back from him. "You okay?"
"Yeah," she sighed and got up slowly, already missing the warmth of his body. "You?"
"Yeah," he sat up and frowned at the window though not seeing it at all. He had thought that he could keep it inside, but sitting here with her, still smell her scent on his hand, he knew that it was going to be hard. Perhaps once she goes back to work and I'm away from her again, I'll forget and be... Who the hell am I kidding?
"We should get ready to go then," Aisha wanted to weep. She wanted to say something, anything to make him stay with her. To make him accept her and want to be with her, to love her forever the way she loved him. "The others will probably want to know what we talked about."
He gave a weak laugh. "How much you want to bet that Adam and Tanya spent all night trying to second guess what was actually being said in here?"
"Do I look stupid enough to do that?" Aisha gave him a smile that spent his heart soaring.
He knew that if could have her with him, then he would at least have her happy. If even I am not. "So, we tell them that we talked and that our friendship is back on track, right?"
She forced her face to remain in a smile and pray that she can gag Tanya. "Yeah, that's right."
He nodded his head, wondering how he was going to keep Adam from spilling his guts out.
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Trini Kwan's Condo
168 Apple Grove Drive #A
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"You know," Tommy commented as he stepped out of the shower with nothing but a white towel around his hips. "Since we're up so early, we can go over to Jason's and get some breakfast."
"Why can't we have breakfast here?" Kim asked as she searched through her messy closet. "Have you seen my pink blouse?"
"The one with the pearl buttons?"
"Yeah."
"You're stepping on it."
"Oh," she picked up her foot and shook out the blouse. "Thanks."
"Cause Trini is probably cooking it."
"Cooking what?"
"Breakfast." He grinned as he pulled on clothes. "We were talking about breakfast."
"Yeah, I know." She answered distractedly. "White suit or blue?"
"I like the red one." He pointed to the only other suit still on a hanger in the closet.
"I can't wear pink with the red suit. They clash." She impatiently pushed a lock of hair back. "And I think we need to be... oh, here's the gray suit."
"Wear that," he buttoned his shirt and tucked it neatly into his pants before belting it. Unlike Kimberly, he may be a messy person but he kept his eyes on his clothes. "The soft pink would be a nice feminine touch to the mannish gray suit.
She snorted. "You won't think it's mannish if you see how short that skirt is."
"How short?" he asked wiggling his brows wolfishly.
"Ally McBeal short." She grinned.
"Oh, now that I've got to see."
Kimberly shook her head in exasperation. Men always seem to find her choice in wardrobe interesting. "Honey, you were saying something last night that I couldn't concentrate on. What was it?" She glanced over her shoulders at him.
He was a little too busy watching her dress to pay any attention to what was being said.
"Tommy?"
He blinked, trying to get the image of her in nothing but lace out of his head. "What did you say, beautiful?"
With a shake of her head, she dressed quickly. "I asked what it was that you wanted to talk to me about last night."
"Oh that," he smiled. "I want to tell you later. Somewhere where the setting is a little more appropriate."
"Appropriate setting?" She eyed him with curiosity. "What are you up to Thomas Edward Oliver?"
He winced. "You sound exactly like my mother when you do that."
"Wise woman." She said sagely.
"She loved you." He watched her stand in front of the mirror and chose jewelry. "Do you always dress up so much to work?"
"Do you always wear a suit?" she replied then turned as she inserted her earrings. "And what do you mean she loved me?"
"I mean she really loved you. Thought you were good for me," he grinned as he tied his tie on. "And yes, I have to wear a suit to work everyday. It is for the professional look that they want for the company."
"I work at a company that deals with movie stars, models and fashion. You don't think that I have a image that must be promoted?" She chose simply gold chains for her throat and wrist along with a clever lady bug watch on a chain around her neck. "Your mother thought that I was good for you? Even after that whole letter incident?"
"Believe it for not, yes." He grinned and hugged her from behind, watching them together in the full-length mirror that threw back their reflections. He thought they looked perfect together. "She even offered to pay airfare for me to go see you in Florida and win you back."
"No way," her eyes were wide in the mirror.
"Yeah, boy would she have had egg on her face if she knew that I could have teleported there in an instant."
"Tommy," she turned and looked at him seriously. "You serious?"
"About?"
"Your mother."
"Yes," he grinned at her. "She loved you. Really loved you. She was really upset when I got together with..." He clamped his mouth shut.
Kimberly touched his face. "It doesn't bother me to hear you say her name. You've shared a past together, I don't want you to feel like you have to hide that from me."
He nodded, thankful of her understanding. "I love you. My mother loves you. My dad thinks you're great. My aunt Helen thinks you're too skinny. Ouch." He rubbed his stomach where Kimberly's fist had driven itself into. "I still love you though."
She rolled her eyes then kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Let's go see if Trini will feed us."
"Sounds good to me."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Jason Scott's Residence
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"You're kidding?" Trini's mouth was hanging open in a rather unbecoming expression.
"Nope," Jason shook his head and whipped the eggs up for her.
"Kat?" She grinned, more amusement than shocked. Her hand paused over the skillet where French toast was turning golden brown. "He told you that?"
"Yup!"
"And he's going to go see her, right?"
"Yeah, that's what he said." he nodded his head and pointed to the pan on the stove. "You still want to make the waffles?"
"No," she shook her head. "I think French toast and light scramble eggs should be enough. Anyone that doesn't like it can have cereal. So Billy is going to take the plunge, huh?"
"Okay, not waffles." He reached into the frig and pulled out the orange juice. "Yeah, I think we inspired him a little."
She rolled her eyes at him.
"So, you think Billy is going to spill his guts to the others now?"
"Billy?" she shook her head. "Nay. He can keep a secret. Probably enjoys it more than we do since he's in on it."
"Thank goodness someone knows me well," Billy grinned from the doorway at the little scene between the two. "Trini, I always knew you were a woman of extraordinary intelligence."
Trini leaned over and gave him a quick peck on the cheek before offering some coffee. "So?"
"So what?" Billy answered and sighed with delight. "God, what is this coffee? I have got to get me some of this stuff."
"Vanilla bean." She answered and flipped the toasts. "And the question is what are you going to do with the information currently at your disposal?"
He smiled rather deviously until Trini brought her spatula up threateningly. He backed up quickly. "Okay, I guess I won't be saying anything unless I want my life to end in a rather nasty way."
"You better believe it." Trini said as Jason laughed. "So?"
"So what?"
"Kat?"
He sighed. Jason grinned at him and sat down a plate of French toast in front of him along with a bottle of maple syrup and powder sugar. "I booked a seat to Australia for next Friday."
Trini bit her lips to keep from squealing with delight. "Impulsive. Have some more coffee."
"Thank you."
Jason grinned at Trini who returned with twinkling eyes. "Hey, Billy. I wanted to ask you something."
"Go ahead."
He glanced at the door and paused to see if he could hear food steps. "Okay. What gave us away?"
Trini turned to watch Billy as well, curious beyond belief.
Billy grinned then twirled a finger encompassing him, her and the kitchen. "This."
"This?"
"Yeah," Billy dug into the wonderful breakfast. I can definitely get use to Trini's cooking. "You and Trini cooking, talking, laughing around the kitchen. All that lack was you to turning to one another and kissing every once in a while. It was all just way too..."
"Too what?" Trini asked, her brows coming into a frown.
"Too domestic."
Jason blinked. He never really thought of it. Everything he did with Trini has always been natural but he never really thought about it as being domestic. Of course, everything with Trini was so comfortable and easy that he never really thought about it much at all.
"Well, that's something we're going to have to watch out for then." Trini shook her head and dropped nothing dripping toast into the frying pan. "Thanks for the observation, Billy."
"Anytime," he grinned as Jason sat down across from him. Leaning forward and keeping a keen eye on Trini, he whispered, "You pop the question yet?"
Jason shook his head then pointed his fork at him for good measure. "Do not even think about it cause I can still kick your ass into October if I have to, Billy."
"What are you two whispering about?" Adam asked as he yawned and dropped himself into a chair. "Trini! You're a goddess. Can I have some too?"
Trini smiled and nodded her head. "But only if you've unlocked the attic door for Rocky and Aisha cause you know he's got to..."
"He has and we're out." Rocky said rather disgruntled. "And you and I, my friend, are going to have to have a long talk."
Adam merely smiled and dug into his hearty breakfast.
Tanya came in just as Trini sat more plates out for Aisha and Rocky. "I smell coffee."
"Hey," Zack pushed the door open and watched in still wearing a nice pair of black silk pajamas. "Hey, that was my line."
Trini laughed and pointed to Jason. "Since you and Billy are done, why don't you come over and take over this thing while I grab some eggs before we're late for work." She could feel her stomach turn just at the thought of food but she needed to eat something. Her appetite has been less than wonderful as of late.
"I'll get it while Jason gets changed for work unless they decided to really let down the dress code at his company." Adam offered as he shoved the last of his French toast into his mouth. "Someone load up the dishwasher."
"Not until we get breakfast," Kimberly called out as she and Tommy came through the back door. "I smell something wonderful."
"Eggs or French Toast guys." Adam asked as he took the spatula from Trini and Billy grabbed more cups from the cupboard for juice.
Trini grimaced as she shoved some light eggs into her mouth and chewed gingerly. She hated the taste of it so decided against any more. Gulping down a cup of orange juice, she headed upstairs for change.
Adam watched Trini for a moment then turned quietly to Billy. "Hey, what's up with Trini?"
Billy kept his expression neutral. "What are you talking about?"
"She had one bite of egg and some juice then left. She seeing that doctor yet?"
"Today, I believe Jason mentioned."
"Oh, okay." Adam glanced over at the door again. "I wanted to ask you something."
"Yeah?"
"Jason and Trini, is it true about them keeping each other's secrets? Cause that's what Tommy said according to Rocky the other night." He tilted his head and scooped up the French toast before it could burn.
Billy bit the inside of his cheek to keep the grin from his face. "You can say that."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Dr. Nancy Chabay's Office
8934 Cadillac Avenue
New York City, New York
"Okay, that's pretty much it." Dr. Chabay was a pretty woman in her early fifties with a smile that immediately put her patient's at ease. "You look to be in perfect health, once again Trini."
"Thanks, Doctor Chabay." Trini buttoned her shirt. "Actually, I wanted to talk to you about something."
"Go ahead." She was scribbling indecipherable notes on Trini's charts.
"I've been feeling really tired lately. No lack of sleep or any real significant change in weight. I've lost some appetite but nothing major there either. I thought it might be the summer flu."
"Hum..." She frowned and tapped the pen against her lower lip. "Have you had any other symptoms other than being run down?"
"Nothing." She shook her head. "I thought it could be stress cause I recently switch jobs but the work loads has actually be lighter since coming to the new firm yet I'm more tired that when I was handling three or four cases at once."
The good doctor nodded her head. "Why don't we do some blood works first then? We'll see what we can find out through that first then work on other options. I don't want to prescribe anything to you cause flu medicines tends to be pretty strong and rather harsh on your system."
"I understand."
"Okay then. Drink lots of fluids and get plenty of rest. We'll draw blood today and I'll put a rush on it."
"Thanks, Doc."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 29, 2004
Katherine Hallard's Residence
58 Pondarosa Road
Sydney, Australia
Kat rushed through the door to pick up the phone before her damn answering machine could get it. "Hello?"
"You sound out of breath, did I interrupt something?" Billy asked with a grin of amusement as Katherine laughed.
"Sorry, I just walked through the door when then phone rang. My arms were full of grocery and I didn't want who ever it was to hung up the phone or leave an annoying message on my machine. Or worse yet, wait until you've head the entire message on the machine then hung up the phone."
Billy could easily imagine her slightly disheveled and breathless from her rush to the phone. She was probably just sitting down with her jacket still on and her purse hanging off her shoulders. "I'll have to remember not to do that then."
"What's up? Did you let Rocky and Aisha out yet?"
"Yeah but I can tell by the way they were both avoiding each other's eyes this morning that things aren't resolved yet."
"Oh, those two really are idiots." She shook her head more at herself then her too shy friends. You are one to talk. You haven't had a decent relationship in what feels like a lifetime now.
"And don't we all know it. Actually, that's not what I called you for." Billy took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart. He had worked out the entire conversation in his mind a hundred time last night and this morning until he couldn't stand it anymore.
"Oh, what's up then?"
"How would you feel about having a visitor for a while?" He asked as causally as he could while holding his breath for the answer. I'll simply die if she says no.
"Visitor?" She prayed to god that she didn't sound as desperate as she felt. "Are you coming to see me, Billy?" Oh please, please, please....
"If you've got room on your couch for me." The day suddenly became blindingly beautiful.
"My couch! Heck you can have my bed." She winced and bit down hard on her lip. "I didn't mean for that to sound the way it did."
Billy laughed lightly but blushed a deeply for his mind had wondered to places that it shouldn't yet. "I'm not Rocky, Kat. I know what you meant by that." As much as I hope that you had meant the other.
She laughed, glad that she hadn't scared the poor fellow away. "When?"
"Next Friday?"
"Sounds great. I'll show you the beauty of down under."
You already have, Kat. You already have.
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Jason Scott's Residence
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"You know, that was just a little too good for me." Tanya sighed and leaned back in her chair. "Trini, I'm going to get fat if you keep this up."
"Yeah right," Aisha tossed her napkin at her friend. "You couldn't gain weight if you decided to eat a whole bakery yourself."
"What is it with former Power Ranger women that keeps them from putting a decent amount of weight on their bodies?" Zack asked with a laugh. "I mean, look at the four of you. You guys don't weigh enough together to tip the scale on a desk set."
"Must be the fast metabolism that the morphing grid used to keep our..." Billy started before everyone pelted him with napkins. "Or maybe it's just because they keep themselves in great shape."
Kimberly laughed and bussed his cheek. "I knew you could redeem yourself there."
"Okay," Trini got up and started to clear the plates. "I propose that we..."
"Hey," Adam grabbed the plates from her. "You cooked, we wash."
"Yeah, house rules here." Rocky nodded and helped to clean the table. "You were saying?"
She threw up her hands in defeat. "I was going to suggest that we break up the is group for a little talk. Ladies to my place and gentlemen here?"
"Wait, didn't we do that same sex thing just the other day?" Zack asked with laugh. "And let's not forget that they say that women keep men civil."
"Oh we don't mind if you guys try to beat each other in." Kimberly said grabbing her purse. "And I agree with Trini. We ladies need to get some good girl talk in tonight. We'll have tomorrow and all weekend to play around."
"Sounds like fine idea to me." Billy agreed with a significant look at Rocky's back, signaling the others. "We should have a nice evening with just guys to brag and belch."
Jason nodded but kept his laughter to himself. "Okay. Agreed then. See you ladies later."
"Hey, Tommy. You going to come see Kim later?" Tanya asked with a sly look in her eyes. "Cause you know..."
"He won't be coming." Kimberly answered with a kiss for her man. "You behave and I'll see you tomorrow."
He hugged her for a moment and pouted. "Are you sure that I can't..."
"No," she smiled and kissed him again. "Bye."
Tommy sighed. "Bye."
"See you guys." Trini waved her hand and glanced quickly at Jason. "Oh, I left the contract file in your library. Could you take it to the partners tomorrow?"
"Yeah." Jason wanted to kiss her goodbye as Tommy had gotten to do but knew it would be wiser to not. After all, he wasn't sure if he could stop at just one kiss. "See you tomorrow."
"Bye guys."
"Hey Trini?" Adam suddenly turned. "How was the doctor's appointment?"
Trini shrugged. "I'm apparently in perfect health but they're going to run a blood test to be sure. I should have the results in a few days."
"Don't forget to get a copy for your own records."
"Yes doctor." She smiled. "Bye."
"Bye."
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teaser line from the next chapter: "Are we talking about the big M here?"
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: Hanspam, you poor thing. I hope you are feeling better and here's a little something to help you pass the time.
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 Thirty-Six
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Jason Scott's Residence
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
Jason awoke to the sensation of warm lips pressed softly against his own. "Hum... Now this is the way to wake up."
"Like it?" Trini asked as she smiled gently at him as she leaned over the side of the bed lazily looked into his misty eyes.
"Oh, you better believe it." He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into the bed with him. She was a warm bundle in the morning. "When did you wake up?"
"About half an hour before? I thought I would make something for everyone this morning." Her fingers ran themselves through the thick disheveled hair. "When did I fall asleep last night? Last thing I remember was that you were going to make tea for me."
"That's pretty much it." He brushed a lock of hair away from her face and tucked the strand behind her ear. "I went into the kitchen to make tea and talk to Billy and Zack. I came back; you had your head on top of your notes, a pen still in hand, and sleeping sound as a baby. You didn't even stir when I picked you up." He frowned with concern. "Definitely time for you to see that doctor of yours."
She nodded her head. "I guess so. My energy level seems to be dropping. But if it's any consolation, I had a really good night's sleep even if it was without you next to me."
He smiled. "I missed you too."
Trini stared into his eyes. It was strange how quickly she became use to having his warm body next to her at nights. He was a quiet sleeper, he didn't particularly move much except to cuddle her. She enjoyed being able to fall asleep to the sound of his heartbeat and waking up with him smiling at her in his usual quiet manner. "Are you always this cheerful in the morning?"
The grin was accompanied by a nod of the head. "Especially when I have you to wake up to."
"Hey, I have a question for you."
"Why didn't I sneak into your room last night?"
She chuckled. "No, you silly though that was a question that was in my mind this morning when I find myself not thirty feet from your bedroom and no lover in sight."
"Okay, if that's not yet, what did you want to know?"
"What was all that about conspiracy last night?"
Jason blinked at her startled then his eyes twinkled and an explosion of laughter came from his lips.
"Did I say something funny?"
~~~~~
"Hi, Southwestern Airline? I'm sorry that I'm calling so early but I would like to book a seat for Flight 32 next Friday the 7th."
"To Australia, sir?"
"Yeah."
"Will that be round trip or one-way?"
There was a pause. "One-way."
~~~~~
Rocky woke up with the sensation of a warm body cuddled next to him, a small delicate hand callused from many hours of good willed work curled into a fist on his chest. I'm either in heaven or in hell. Either way he hadn't gotten much sleep last night. The hours spent staring at Aisha's sleeping form had been wonderfully blissful but also reminded him that he couldn't never have what his heart desperately wanted.
Aisha knew the minute he was awake. She could feel his warm breath on her hand and knew that she should probably move. But god, it felt so good to lie next to him like this again. Her heart ached with knowing that she could be this close but be so far away. Life sucks like hell.
Rocky wondered for a moment what Aisha was thinking. He could sense that she was awake but was making no move to break away from him. Considering he is the one on the bottom right now, he really didn't have much of a choice but lay there and wait for her next move.
She realized that with all the years Rocky spent studying martial arts, he probably was very good at sensing subtle movements, like her coming awake. She lifted her head and looked into big wide-open eyes. "Hi." Lame beyond belief.
He smiled almost glad that she hadn't moved from him yet. "Good morning."
"What time is it?" Waiting for him to tell her to move.
"I think it's just after dawn so it should be almost seven o'clock."
She nodded her head. "Guess that our imprisonment is about to end." Am I glad or sadden that I'm losing this time of being alone with him?
"I guess," he wanted to say something but was too afraid that she would pull back from him. "You okay?"
"Yeah," she sighed and got up slowly, already missing the warmth of his body. "You?"
"Yeah," he sat up and frowned at the window though not seeing it at all. He had thought that he could keep it inside, but sitting here with her, still smell her scent on his hand, he knew that it was going to be hard. Perhaps once she goes back to work and I'm away from her again, I'll forget and be... Who the hell am I kidding?
"We should get ready to go then," Aisha wanted to weep. She wanted to say something, anything to make him stay with her. To make him accept her and want to be with her, to love her forever the way she loved him. "The others will probably want to know what we talked about."
He gave a weak laugh. "How much you want to bet that Adam and Tanya spent all night trying to second guess what was actually being said in here?"
"Do I look stupid enough to do that?" Aisha gave him a smile that spent his heart soaring.
He knew that if could have her with him, then he would at least have her happy. If even I am not. "So, we tell them that we talked and that our friendship is back on track, right?"
She forced her face to remain in a smile and pray that she can gag Tanya. "Yeah, that's right."
He nodded his head, wondering how he was going to keep Adam from spilling his guts out.
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Trini Kwan's Condo
168 Apple Grove Drive #A
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"You know," Tommy commented as he stepped out of the shower with nothing but a white towel around his hips. "Since we're up so early, we can go over to Jason's and get some breakfast."
"Why can't we have breakfast here?" Kim asked as she searched through her messy closet. "Have you seen my pink blouse?"
"The one with the pearl buttons?"
"Yeah."
"You're stepping on it."
"Oh," she picked up her foot and shook out the blouse. "Thanks."
"Cause Trini is probably cooking it."
"Cooking what?"
"Breakfast." He grinned as he pulled on clothes. "We were talking about breakfast."
"Yeah, I know." She answered distractedly. "White suit or blue?"
"I like the red one." He pointed to the only other suit still on a hanger in the closet.
"I can't wear pink with the red suit. They clash." She impatiently pushed a lock of hair back. "And I think we need to be... oh, here's the gray suit."
"Wear that," he buttoned his shirt and tucked it neatly into his pants before belting it. Unlike Kimberly, he may be a messy person but he kept his eyes on his clothes. "The soft pink would be a nice feminine touch to the mannish gray suit.
She snorted. "You won't think it's mannish if you see how short that skirt is."
"How short?" he asked wiggling his brows wolfishly.
"Ally McBeal short." She grinned.
"Oh, now that I've got to see."
Kimberly shook her head in exasperation. Men always seem to find her choice in wardrobe interesting. "Honey, you were saying something last night that I couldn't concentrate on. What was it?" She glanced over her shoulders at him.
He was a little too busy watching her dress to pay any attention to what was being said.
"Tommy?"
He blinked, trying to get the image of her in nothing but lace out of his head. "What did you say, beautiful?"
With a shake of her head, she dressed quickly. "I asked what it was that you wanted to talk to me about last night."
"Oh that," he smiled. "I want to tell you later. Somewhere where the setting is a little more appropriate."
"Appropriate setting?" She eyed him with curiosity. "What are you up to Thomas Edward Oliver?"
He winced. "You sound exactly like my mother when you do that."
"Wise woman." She said sagely.
"She loved you." He watched her stand in front of the mirror and chose jewelry. "Do you always dress up so much to work?"
"Do you always wear a suit?" she replied then turned as she inserted her earrings. "And what do you mean she loved me?"
"I mean she really loved you. Thought you were good for me," he grinned as he tied his tie on. "And yes, I have to wear a suit to work everyday. It is for the professional look that they want for the company."
"I work at a company that deals with movie stars, models and fashion. You don't think that I have a image that must be promoted?" She chose simply gold chains for her throat and wrist along with a clever lady bug watch on a chain around her neck. "Your mother thought that I was good for you? Even after that whole letter incident?"
"Believe it for not, yes." He grinned and hugged her from behind, watching them together in the full-length mirror that threw back their reflections. He thought they looked perfect together. "She even offered to pay airfare for me to go see you in Florida and win you back."
"No way," her eyes were wide in the mirror.
"Yeah, boy would she have had egg on her face if she knew that I could have teleported there in an instant."
"Tommy," she turned and looked at him seriously. "You serious?"
"About?"
"Your mother."
"Yes," he grinned at her. "She loved you. Really loved you. She was really upset when I got together with..." He clamped his mouth shut.
Kimberly touched his face. "It doesn't bother me to hear you say her name. You've shared a past together, I don't want you to feel like you have to hide that from me."
He nodded, thankful of her understanding. "I love you. My mother loves you. My dad thinks you're great. My aunt Helen thinks you're too skinny. Ouch." He rubbed his stomach where Kimberly's fist had driven itself into. "I still love you though."
She rolled her eyes then kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Let's go see if Trini will feed us."
"Sounds good to me."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Jason Scott's Residence
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"You're kidding?" Trini's mouth was hanging open in a rather unbecoming expression.
"Nope," Jason shook his head and whipped the eggs up for her.
"Kat?" She grinned, more amusement than shocked. Her hand paused over the skillet where French toast was turning golden brown. "He told you that?"
"Yup!"
"And he's going to go see her, right?"
"Yeah, that's what he said." he nodded his head and pointed to the pan on the stove. "You still want to make the waffles?"
"No," she shook her head. "I think French toast and light scramble eggs should be enough. Anyone that doesn't like it can have cereal. So Billy is going to take the plunge, huh?"
"Okay, not waffles." He reached into the frig and pulled out the orange juice. "Yeah, I think we inspired him a little."
She rolled her eyes at him.
"So, you think Billy is going to spill his guts to the others now?"
"Billy?" she shook her head. "Nay. He can keep a secret. Probably enjoys it more than we do since he's in on it."
"Thank goodness someone knows me well," Billy grinned from the doorway at the little scene between the two. "Trini, I always knew you were a woman of extraordinary intelligence."
Trini leaned over and gave him a quick peck on the cheek before offering some coffee. "So?"
"So what?" Billy answered and sighed with delight. "God, what is this coffee? I have got to get me some of this stuff."
"Vanilla bean." She answered and flipped the toasts. "And the question is what are you going to do with the information currently at your disposal?"
He smiled rather deviously until Trini brought her spatula up threateningly. He backed up quickly. "Okay, I guess I won't be saying anything unless I want my life to end in a rather nasty way."
"You better believe it." Trini said as Jason laughed. "So?"
"So what?"
"Kat?"
He sighed. Jason grinned at him and sat down a plate of French toast in front of him along with a bottle of maple syrup and powder sugar. "I booked a seat to Australia for next Friday."
Trini bit her lips to keep from squealing with delight. "Impulsive. Have some more coffee."
"Thank you."
Jason grinned at Trini who returned with twinkling eyes. "Hey, Billy. I wanted to ask you something."
"Go ahead."
He glanced at the door and paused to see if he could hear food steps. "Okay. What gave us away?"
Trini turned to watch Billy as well, curious beyond belief.
Billy grinned then twirled a finger encompassing him, her and the kitchen. "This."
"This?"
"Yeah," Billy dug into the wonderful breakfast. I can definitely get use to Trini's cooking. "You and Trini cooking, talking, laughing around the kitchen. All that lack was you to turning to one another and kissing every once in a while. It was all just way too..."
"Too what?" Trini asked, her brows coming into a frown.
"Too domestic."
Jason blinked. He never really thought of it. Everything he did with Trini has always been natural but he never really thought about it as being domestic. Of course, everything with Trini was so comfortable and easy that he never really thought about it much at all.
"Well, that's something we're going to have to watch out for then." Trini shook her head and dropped nothing dripping toast into the frying pan. "Thanks for the observation, Billy."
"Anytime," he grinned as Jason sat down across from him. Leaning forward and keeping a keen eye on Trini, he whispered, "You pop the question yet?"
Jason shook his head then pointed his fork at him for good measure. "Do not even think about it cause I can still kick your ass into October if I have to, Billy."
"What are you two whispering about?" Adam asked as he yawned and dropped himself into a chair. "Trini! You're a goddess. Can I have some too?"
Trini smiled and nodded her head. "But only if you've unlocked the attic door for Rocky and Aisha cause you know he's got to..."
"He has and we're out." Rocky said rather disgruntled. "And you and I, my friend, are going to have to have a long talk."
Adam merely smiled and dug into his hearty breakfast.
Tanya came in just as Trini sat more plates out for Aisha and Rocky. "I smell coffee."
"Hey," Zack pushed the door open and watched in still wearing a nice pair of black silk pajamas. "Hey, that was my line."
Trini laughed and pointed to Jason. "Since you and Billy are done, why don't you come over and take over this thing while I grab some eggs before we're late for work." She could feel her stomach turn just at the thought of food but she needed to eat something. Her appetite has been less than wonderful as of late.
"I'll get it while Jason gets changed for work unless they decided to really let down the dress code at his company." Adam offered as he shoved the last of his French toast into his mouth. "Someone load up the dishwasher."
"Not until we get breakfast," Kimberly called out as she and Tommy came through the back door. "I smell something wonderful."
"Eggs or French Toast guys." Adam asked as he took the spatula from Trini and Billy grabbed more cups from the cupboard for juice.
Trini grimaced as she shoved some light eggs into her mouth and chewed gingerly. She hated the taste of it so decided against any more. Gulping down a cup of orange juice, she headed upstairs for change.
Adam watched Trini for a moment then turned quietly to Billy. "Hey, what's up with Trini?"
Billy kept his expression neutral. "What are you talking about?"
"She had one bite of egg and some juice then left. She seeing that doctor yet?"
"Today, I believe Jason mentioned."
"Oh, okay." Adam glanced over at the door again. "I wanted to ask you something."
"Yeah?"
"Jason and Trini, is it true about them keeping each other's secrets? Cause that's what Tommy said according to Rocky the other night." He tilted his head and scooped up the French toast before it could burn.
Billy bit the inside of his cheek to keep the grin from his face. "You can say that."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Dr. Nancy Chabay's Office
8934 Cadillac Avenue
New York City, New York
"Okay, that's pretty much it." Dr. Chabay was a pretty woman in her early fifties with a smile that immediately put her patient's at ease. "You look to be in perfect health, once again Trini."
"Thanks, Doctor Chabay." Trini buttoned her shirt. "Actually, I wanted to talk to you about something."
"Go ahead." She was scribbling indecipherable notes on Trini's charts.
"I've been feeling really tired lately. No lack of sleep or any real significant change in weight. I've lost some appetite but nothing major there either. I thought it might be the summer flu."
"Hum..." She frowned and tapped the pen against her lower lip. "Have you had any other symptoms other than being run down?"
"Nothing." She shook her head. "I thought it could be stress cause I recently switch jobs but the work loads has actually be lighter since coming to the new firm yet I'm more tired that when I was handling three or four cases at once."
The good doctor nodded her head. "Why don't we do some blood works first then? We'll see what we can find out through that first then work on other options. I don't want to prescribe anything to you cause flu medicines tends to be pretty strong and rather harsh on your system."
"I understand."
"Okay then. Drink lots of fluids and get plenty of rest. We'll draw blood today and I'll put a rush on it."
"Thanks, Doc."
~~~~~~~~~~
July 29, 2004
Katherine Hallard's Residence
58 Pondarosa Road
Sydney, Australia
Kat rushed through the door to pick up the phone before her damn answering machine could get it. "Hello?"
"You sound out of breath, did I interrupt something?" Billy asked with a grin of amusement as Katherine laughed.
"Sorry, I just walked through the door when then phone rang. My arms were full of grocery and I didn't want who ever it was to hung up the phone or leave an annoying message on my machine. Or worse yet, wait until you've head the entire message on the machine then hung up the phone."
Billy could easily imagine her slightly disheveled and breathless from her rush to the phone. She was probably just sitting down with her jacket still on and her purse hanging off her shoulders. "I'll have to remember not to do that then."
"What's up? Did you let Rocky and Aisha out yet?"
"Yeah but I can tell by the way they were both avoiding each other's eyes this morning that things aren't resolved yet."
"Oh, those two really are idiots." She shook her head more at herself then her too shy friends. You are one to talk. You haven't had a decent relationship in what feels like a lifetime now.
"And don't we all know it. Actually, that's not what I called you for." Billy took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart. He had worked out the entire conversation in his mind a hundred time last night and this morning until he couldn't stand it anymore.
"Oh, what's up then?"
"How would you feel about having a visitor for a while?" He asked as causally as he could while holding his breath for the answer. I'll simply die if she says no.
"Visitor?" She prayed to god that she didn't sound as desperate as she felt. "Are you coming to see me, Billy?" Oh please, please, please....
"If you've got room on your couch for me." The day suddenly became blindingly beautiful.
"My couch! Heck you can have my bed." She winced and bit down hard on her lip. "I didn't mean for that to sound the way it did."
Billy laughed lightly but blushed a deeply for his mind had wondered to places that it shouldn't yet. "I'm not Rocky, Kat. I know what you meant by that." As much as I hope that you had meant the other.
She laughed, glad that she hadn't scared the poor fellow away. "When?"
"Next Friday?"
"Sounds great. I'll show you the beauty of down under."
You already have, Kat. You already have.
~~~~~~~~~~
July 30, 2004
Jason Scott's Residence
138 Haven Ave.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
"You know, that was just a little too good for me." Tanya sighed and leaned back in her chair. "Trini, I'm going to get fat if you keep this up."
"Yeah right," Aisha tossed her napkin at her friend. "You couldn't gain weight if you decided to eat a whole bakery yourself."
"What is it with former Power Ranger women that keeps them from putting a decent amount of weight on their bodies?" Zack asked with a laugh. "I mean, look at the four of you. You guys don't weigh enough together to tip the scale on a desk set."
"Must be the fast metabolism that the morphing grid used to keep our..." Billy started before everyone pelted him with napkins. "Or maybe it's just because they keep themselves in great shape."
Kimberly laughed and bussed his cheek. "I knew you could redeem yourself there."
"Okay," Trini got up and started to clear the plates. "I propose that we..."
"Hey," Adam grabbed the plates from her. "You cooked, we wash."
"Yeah, house rules here." Rocky nodded and helped to clean the table. "You were saying?"
She threw up her hands in defeat. "I was going to suggest that we break up the is group for a little talk. Ladies to my place and gentlemen here?"
"Wait, didn't we do that same sex thing just the other day?" Zack asked with laugh. "And let's not forget that they say that women keep men civil."
"Oh we don't mind if you guys try to beat each other in." Kimberly said grabbing her purse. "And I agree with Trini. We ladies need to get some good girl talk in tonight. We'll have tomorrow and all weekend to play around."
"Sounds like fine idea to me." Billy agreed with a significant look at Rocky's back, signaling the others. "We should have a nice evening with just guys to brag and belch."
Jason nodded but kept his laughter to himself. "Okay. Agreed then. See you ladies later."
"Hey, Tommy. You going to come see Kim later?" Tanya asked with a sly look in her eyes. "Cause you know..."
"He won't be coming." Kimberly answered with a kiss for her man. "You behave and I'll see you tomorrow."
He hugged her for a moment and pouted. "Are you sure that I can't..."
"No," she smiled and kissed him again. "Bye."
Tommy sighed. "Bye."
"See you guys." Trini waved her hand and glanced quickly at Jason. "Oh, I left the contract file in your library. Could you take it to the partners tomorrow?"
"Yeah." Jason wanted to kiss her goodbye as Tommy had gotten to do but knew it would be wiser to not. After all, he wasn't sure if he could stop at just one kiss. "See you tomorrow."
"Bye guys."
"Hey Trini?" Adam suddenly turned. "How was the doctor's appointment?"
Trini shrugged. "I'm apparently in perfect health but they're going to run a blood test to be sure. I should have the results in a few days."
"Don't forget to get a copy for your own records."
"Yes doctor." She smiled. "Bye."
"Bye."
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Teaser line from the next chapter: "Are we talking about the big M here?"