Chapter 3

Theresa smiled and shook her head. That Fox, she thought to herself. I got him good. Theresa sighed. Fox was certainly fun to be around. She could honestly say that she enjoyed his company.

Walking down the hallway with spirits high, she abruptly stopped when she heard Gwen and Ethan. "Ohh Ethan," Theresa heard Gwen moan. It made her sick to her stomach. She stood there frozen, unable to move. She wanted to get away from the sounds as fast as possible, but her body wouldn't respond to her brain's urgent commands to get away. 

"I love you, Gwen." Theresa heard Ethan say. 

No! Theresa's heart cried. You love me! Theresa's eyes watered with tears threatening to spill down her cheeks. She felt a sob welding in her throat ready to escape at any moment.

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Fox was walking down the hall and stopped in his tracks when he saw Theresa. This is my chance to work my charms again he thought smiling.

Before he approached her, Fox observed Theresa. Something wasn't right. He could automatically tell something was bothering Theresa. She looks like she's about to cry. Fox thought. I wonder what's gotten her so upset.

Then he heard what was making Theresa upset. Sounds of Gwen and Ethan making love were filling his ears. Disgusted Fox shook his head. He looked at Theresa and immediately felt sorry for her.  This must be devastating her. I should do something. He thought to himself. But what?

Still trying to figure out how to help Theresa,  Fox walked over to her. "Hey" he said softly touching her shoulder.

Theresa unable to speak raised her head and looked Fox in the eyes.

Fox could see the pain that Theresa was feeling. Her eyes were proof that she felt wounded and defeated. In reaction to her gaze, Fox put his arms around Theresa and held her. It felt like the right thing to do at the moment.

Immediately feeling his arms around her, Theresa's statue-like posture went limp. She sank into Fox's arms. Theresa  let out all her emotions that were welding inside her. She sobbed while Fox tried to comfort her. "Shhh, it's okay. Just let it out." Fox said softly.

After a few minutes, Theresa's sobs subsided. "Feel better now?" asked Fox in a gentle tone.

"Yes" Theresa said weakly. She immediately felt guilty. "Oh, Fox. Your shirt. I'm sorry. I-"

"It's just a shirt, Theresa. Besides, I'm a Crane. I can buy 50 other shirts just like this one if I wanted to." Fox smiled and hoped he could make Theresa smile again.

Theresa smiled feebly at Fox. "Thank you Fox."

"You're very welcome. Anything to help my beautiful step-mommy." Fox began to release his hold of Theresa when she stopped him.

"No, don't let go Fox. Not yet. Please." Theresa felt protected and comforted in Fox's arms. She didn't want him to let go of her for fear that she would fall apart again.

Surprised, Fox granted her request and held her. Bonus points for me he thought.  He didn't mind holding this beautiful woman in his arms.

Suddenly an angry Ethan rudely interrupted Fox and Theresa.

"GET YOUR DAMN HANDS OFF OF HER!"