Chapter 13: Song of the Past
Philip, Mimi, Chloe, Shawn and Belle sat at a table in the Salem High courtyard. Music was blaring from a set of speakers as a deejay played the most popular hits. The courtyard was crowded and loud because of it. It may have also had to do with the fact that tonight was the homecoming game and the homecoming dance. Excitement filled the air and not even the slightly chilly weather could put a damper on everyone's mood.
Mimi was actually enjoying the weather, liking the crispness in the air and seeing the leaves of various fall colors litter the ground. It was a nice familiar reminder of living in the New England area. It also meant she could start wearing warm sweaters, boots and the list went on. Today she was wearing blue and yellow as most of Salem High was, showing off their school spirit. She had on her block jacket from soccer, a blue sweater and jeans. She looked over at Philip wearing blue jeans, his Salem High football jersey and his block jacket. Belle had on her Salem High cheerleading outfit, of course finished off with Shawn's block jacket. Shawn himself, was wearing his football jersey, blue jeans and his leather jacket. As for Chloe, she was wearing blue jeans, a yellow mock turtleneck and a blue jacket. And Mimi wondered how on earth the five of them actually ended up sitting together.
Actually, Shawn and Belle sat down together first when a little later Philip popped by and sat with them. Then came Mimi and when Chloe came to talk to Belle, room was quickly made for her. Shawn and Belle were sitting together and Mimi was sitting next to Belle. Across from them, with some distance between them, sat Chloe and Philip. They were all in a celebratory mood, not only because of homecoming, but because Philip was actually going to be playing his first game of the season.
"Okay you guys the K-man's back and tonight's game is going to rock!" Philip had a smile of pure delight on his face.
"And why is that? I mean what's so different about tonight's game? I don't see anything different about it."
Shawn teased his friend with a straight face.
Philip gave him a dirty look and then continued. "I told you! I'm back! And Kiriakis is going to rule the field!" The girls laughed and smiled.
"Uh, aren't you getting ahead of yourself, Phil?" Shawn asked him, only half-joking. He was psyched about the game too, but he hoped his friend wouldn't get over-confident. After all, it was his first game in a long time. What if Philip didn't play well? Sure he was getting better every day of practice, but.......
He just hoped the game wouldn't be a letdown.
Shawn's comment made Philip angry at first, but he knew deep down that he was just concerned about him and truth be told, Philip was kind of scared about the upcoming game himself. What if he played miserably?
He saw Mimi look at him with some unease in her eyes. She knows, he thought. She knows that I'm unsure too. Of course she did. She was one of his closest confidantes lately and they had talked about his football problems. He smiled at her, quickly and reassuringly, then with a grin responded to Shawn.
"No I'm not Shawn. I mean what's wrong with a little boasting, huh? But I'm not going to get all over excited. I'm just going to play my best tonight. And I know I'm going to score a touchdown. I can just feel it." Philip smiled at his friends.
"You're right Philip. I have a great feeling about tonight's game. I just know you guys are going to play well, all of you!" Belle said inspirationally.
"What would we do without you Belle, our number one inspirational cheerleader?" Chloe teasingly smiled at her friend.
Belle rose to the occasion, making all of her friends break out into laughter as she stood up on the bench and began to cheer. "WE"RE NUMBER ONE! WE"RE NUMBER ONE! GO PANTHERS! GO PANTHERS! GO PANTHERS!" Students turned around to look, some laughing and some just watching, amused.
Shawn stood up on the bench and gently helped Belle down, teasing her. "Okay, okay. Down girl." Everyone laughed, watching Shawn and Belle sit back down on the bench. Then the whole courtyard exploded into applause and chants of "SALEM HIGH! SALEM HIGH!"
Eventually, the chanting died down.
"Got it all out of your system, Belle?" Mimi jokingly asked her friend.
"Yes, I did." Belle said with a cute little grin. "Until tonight that is. Just wait until tonight! OH, I'm so excited!"
"Is one of the reasons you're so excited because you and Shawn are a shoe- in for homecoming king and queen?" Philip lightheartedly asked.
"Oh come on Philly. You're the king of Salem High." Shawn said.
"Yeah, but you and Belle are the most popular couple now; there's no way you guys aren't going to win!" Mimi replied with conviction.
Philip smiled. "Meems is right. You guys are going to win, no doubt about it."
Chloe spoke up also. "Besides, it's your turn. You guys deserve it."
Belle and Shawn just smiled at each other.
Then Belle said, "Now look who are being cheerleaders. You guys are the best, but I'm really looking forward to seeing Philip play tonight. All the cheerleaders have missed you." She said directly to him.
"And what about me?" Shawn asked with a sad puppy dogface.
"You know you're my number one guy." Belle said in a sweet voice. He gave her a sweet kiss in return.
"AAAAAAAWWWWWWW!" Philip, Mimi and Chloe said in unison.
"Ah, knock it off you guys!" Shawn replied with a touch of embarrassment. "I agree with Belle. Seriously Phil, it'll be great to have you on the team again."
"I'm looking forward to seeing you play tonight." Chloe said happily.
Philip was shocked. Was that enthusiasm he heard in her voice? About him? Sometimes when they had gone out he felt like she was bored or not entirely happy, but now she sounded different. She must be going to the game with Brady. Or maybe by not spending so much time together they were actually growing closer. Maybe just being friends with each other wouldn't be so bad.
"You're going to the game?" He asked her.
"Of course she is!" Belle responded.
"Yes. With Brady." Chloe said a little tentatively, not sure what Philip's reaction would be.
Philip noticed all of his friends looking at him, waiting to see what his response would be. Fine he would reply with total calmness. Let's see how they would react to that.
"Oh, that's good. It'll give me a bigger cheering section!"
Chloe smiled warmly at him and the rest of his friends gave him a look of approval.
"Chloe's even going to get ready at my house. Meems you have to come too and we."
Belle's voice broke off awkwardly as she remembered.
Philip sought out Mimi's face, locking eyes with her for a minute. She looked so sad at first, but she quickly covered it up. He saw it though. He wasn't sure who else saw it, but he definitely did. Part of Mimi's punishment for the internet prank was that she couldn't attend any school functions unless they were academic in nature. Philip knew that it was better than going to jail, but it was their senior year. It couldn't be easy for her.
"Mimi, I'm so sorry." Belle apologized, feeling horrible. Not only did Mimi look a little sad, but Chloe also looked uncomfortable.
"Hey Belle it's alright. I can spend more time with my family and catch up on any movies I've missed. It's no big deal."
Mimi's voice broke off a little sadly. She really wished she could come to tonight's game. She wanted to see Philip play and what a treat it would be to see Shawn and Belle be crowned and dance together as homecoming king and queen. Instead, she'd be spending the first part of the night with Jan complaining and the second part....
NO! No feeling sorry for herself.
Looking at everyone's faces and feeling the awkwardness, Shawn decided that a change of subject was in order. "Hey you guys, did you hear what's planned for Halloween this year?"
"Trick or treating?" Philip questioned dryly.
"The latest Salem witch convention?" Chloe asked spookily.
"The Frankenstein look-alike contest?" Mimi chimed in.
"My Birthday!" Belle jubilantly replied."
"NO!"
Shawn looked at them and shook his head. "They're doing this thing this year where they're going to decorate these old houses like haunted houses."
"Yeah, and you can tour them." Mimi joined in.
"They're going to make them look all spooky." Philip added his part.
"With witches and ghosts and spider webs." Chloe added.
"And the houses are going to be all close together so you can visit one after the other!" Belle said excitedly.
"Yeah, that's what I'm talking about you guys. What do you think? Doesn't it actually sound kind of cool?" Shawn asked his friends.
"I'm for it and we can all go because it's not a school thing." Philip responded and looked over at Mimi with a wink.
Mimi smiled. "I'm there then."
"Me too. It sounds like fun and Brady's been saying he's interested." Chloe added.
"And we can celebrate my birthday!" Belle chimed in.
Everyone just laughed.
****
Philip stood on the field, waiting. He was getting ready for the last play of the night and he was anxious. The score was nearly tied. It was up to him to score the winning touchdown. Ha, ha, ha! No pressure there!
Philip looked over at Shawn who gave him an encouraging glance. Shawn had actually played great tonight, scoring two touchdowns. Now it was Philip's chance. He was glad he got to play in the game, even though his time on the field was limited, thanks to his doctor. He had to admit, he was somewhat tired too. He looked over across the field and saw Belle with the other cheerleaders leading a cheer all about him: The K-man. Earlier they had cheered specially for Shawn. Now it was his turn. He looked up into the stands and saw Chloe and Brady sitting together, signaling to him encouragingly. He smiled back at them. And even though she wasn't there, Philip could feel Mimi there with him in spirit. Too bad she really couldn't be there. He missed her enthusiasm.
Okay, enough musing. It was up to him now. He had to do it. For the team and for himself.
The final play of the night started. Philip ran down the field with the ball and......................................................................... .........
Shawn had done his part and now he could just watch. "Come on buddy, you can do it. Come on."
Belle and all the other cheerleaders stood watching in total silence. "Go Philip. Go Philip." Belle chanted silently in her mind.
Brady could feel Chloe holding onto his hand tightly as they watched in anticipation. "Come on Uncle Phil, you got it. It's in the bag." Brady thought to himself.
Chloe clutched Brady's hand watching Philip nervously. "Please, please let him do it." She thought, knowing it was important to Philip.
And Mimi was at home glued to the radio with her own thoughts. "You can do it Philly, I know you can! Just believe in yourself!" She closed her eyes and pictured him in her mind, running down the field with the ball, with the grace and speed of a panther. Because that's what he had always looked like to her when she saw him play.
Philip ran down the field with the ball, feeling a surge of energy and a rush of adrenaline as the crowd chanted "KIRIAKIS, KIRIAKIS!" over and over again. He raced down the field, barely noticing the opposing players charging towards him.
And his friends at the game watched, waited and hoped, as one of them at home, kept picturing him in her mind, leading the team to victory.
Philip didn't even know what happened until he heard the roar of the crowd and saw his teammates running towards him. He looked up at the scoreboard telling the story. They won!! And he scored the winning touchdown!! He actually did it!! Philip whooped with joy and threw the ball down on the field, feeling himself being picked up as his teammates carried him on their shoulders. He threw back his head in abandon and let out a jubilant cry. Then he looked over and noticed his friends.
Belle was with the other cheerleaders, jumping up and down for joy.
Chloe was up in the stands hugging Brady victoriously and then the two of them looked down at Philip and gave him a big thumbs up.
At home, Mimi was screaming out "YES, YES, YES!!" not caring who saw her and how crazy she might look.
Little did she know that Philip as he joined hands with Shawn (who was also being carried) was thinking of her, somehow knowing that she had been there with him, in his mind, cheering him on.
"Thanks Meems," he said silently with a smile.
****
Philip walked into the gym, all decked out for the homecoming dance, the music once again blaring from the speakers. He was now wearing a tight navy blue sweater and black jeans with black boots. He walked in to applause from the whole school. "Thanks you guys", he said with a little modesty. "Now, enough of this! Get back to dancing!" He called out lightheartedly.
Everyone resumed dancing and soon he noticed the homecoming king and queen off in their own little world.
Philip watched Shawn and Belle dance, Shawn fiddling with his crown, as they danced to their song and he chuckled at the sight. He knew Shawn wasn't crazy about wearing it, but they sure looked good together.
When the dance ended, they walked over to him. Belle nearly ran, giving him a big hug. "Philip, I'm so, so, so happy for you! You were wonderful!"
Philip smiled and thanked her returning the hug.
"Hey what about me?" Shawn replied jokingly.
"Ooohh! You are so demanding sometimes!" Belle responded with a laugh. "I guess I'll just have to SHOW you how much you mean to me." And with that she gave him a kiss, straightening out his crown afterwards.
Shawn frowned a little, looking up at the irritating crown. Oh, what he had to do for his Belle sometimes.
Philip laughed. "What's wrong, Shawn? Having problems with that crown?"
"Problems? He loves it!" Belle snuggled up against her boyfriend and he happily held her close in return.
Philip softly laughed again with a smile. "Okay you guys, two's company, three's a crowd. I think it's time for me to get lost."
"I know a lot of girls that are just dying to dance with you!" Belle teased.
Philip just smiled and softly laughed.
"Isn't this great you guys?" Belle enthusiastically asked. "I just wish Meems could be here. I miss her." She said a little sadly.
"Yeah, it is kind of too bad she couldn't come. Other than you Belle, no one yells better." Philip replied.
"Yeah it's different without Mimi. Anyways, great touchdown tonight Phil." Shawn tried to lighten the mood.
"You too, Bro. Two touchdowns in one night! But don't worry, I'm on the mend." Philip challenged.
"Yeah, well-" Shawn retorted.
"Okay, okay that's enough you two." Belle broke in. "OOhh, I love this song! Let's go dance, baby!" Belle grabbed Shawn's arm as one of her favorite songs came on.
Philip laughed, watching as Shawn waved back at him helplessly as Belle pulled him out to the dance floor. However, he knew they were both happy now, blissfully happy.
Next Philip scoped out Brady and Chloe dancing together, very close. She sure looked beautiful and happy..
With him. He didn't want to admit it, but it was true. It didn't actually make him happy, but he felt none of the previous outrageous jealousy and anger he used to feel at seeing them together. Chloe noticed him and smiled and he smiled back at her and returned Brady's thumbs up sign.
Suddenly, he felt a hand brush over his chest and then lightly land on his shoulder as he looked and saw Gretchen, one of the cheerleaders, looking at him with a flirtatious smile. She definitely looked good. There was a time that good looks would have been enough for Philip, but not anymore. He returned her smile politely, but not with much warmth.
"Oh my gosh, Philip you were so wonderful tonight. Everyone's talking about it." She looked at him enticingly.
"Thanks Gretchen." Philip managed to respond, sounding somewhat bored.
"Since it looks like we're both alone here tonight would you dance with me?" She ran her hand up and down his arm, smiling coquettishly.
Philip smiled back charmingly. "Sure. Why not?"
And with that he took her outstretched hand and led her out to the dance floor, feeling her holding him closely as a slow song started. He held her more loosely looking down at her smiling face and then looking away, feeling her rest her head against his shoulder. He just sighed and stared blankly ahead. After that finished they danced to a fast song. He didn't really want to, but she insisted and he wasn't in the mood to say no.
What happened to his good mood? Out on the field tonight he felt wonderful, but then he came to the dance and felt.
He was glad that Shawn and Belle were so happy, but it was hard too, seeing how wonderful they felt together. He had that at one time. He thought of Chloe and how close she and Brady seemed to be growing. All of it just made him feel so left out.
The song ended, the beginning beats of the next song started, and Philip closed his eyes for a second in disbelief. He would know that opening anywhere, the guitar cords, the violins.
{I don't need a lot of things
I can get by with nothing
Of all the blessings life can bring
I've only needed one thing}
That song! Holding her in his arms at the Last Blast Dance.
Calling her Ghoul Girl.
He felt sick inside. He scanned the room, but she was nowhere to be found. They must have left earlier. And right now he had to get out of there.
Gretchen took his hand for him to dance with her, but with a painful look Philip let go and walked away, not saying a single word to her. Then he grabbed his jacket and walked out of the gym.
{But I've got all I want
When it comes to loving you}
Shawn and Belle saw it all.
"What, what did I do?" Gretchen asked them.
"It wasn't you." Belle sadly replied.
"It was the song." Shawn finished.
{You're my only reason,
You're my only truth.}
****
Philip walked out of the gym, speeding up his pace little by little, rushing until he could hear the song no longer. He didn't care where he was going; all he knew was he needed to be away from that song.
The memories it brought.
Some Beautiful.
Some Painful.
He found himself back at the football field where he had been so happy later. Now he felt.
Empty
How did things get so messed up?
He sat down on one of the bleachers and let his head fall to his knees. He should be ecstatic now, but.
That song, that song just had to be playing. At one time it caused him such joy; now it just caused him pain.
He lifted his head and leaned back against the bleachers.
Enough of this. He was alive. ALIVE. There was a time, a horrible time that he thought he would never see the people he loved and cared about again. He was afraid he might die and now here he was alive and well, with friends and family that loved and cared about him.
Friends.
Hmmm. There was one friend who lately made him laugh and feel good.
Meems, why can't you be here? I wish.
He looked up at the sky for a moment and then took out his cell phone, punching in the number, then speaking after someone answered on the other side.
"Hey, it's me. Listen, do you want to do something?"
Song Credit: I Need You: By Le Ann Rimes
Chapter 14: Reinforced
Mimi looked up at the sky, crossing her arms over her legs. She was sitting on her porch, feeling in a pretty good mood. Philip scored a touchdown!! She heard it on the radio and was overwhelmed with happiness. She was proud of him. He did it! He must be feeling wonderful now. Sure, she didn't get to go to the dance or game, but at least something good happened. She leaned her head back against the wall and closed her eyes.
****
Earlier.
Philip almost rushed to his car from the bleachers, well his Dad's car. He got in and started on his way. . The game had been the best, but the moment he entered the dance and saw Chloe and Brady and even Shawn and Belle so happy together, he had felt.empty. Dancing with Gretchen if anything, only made him feel more so. Then hearing that song was the breaking factor. He had to get out of there. Therefore, he went somewhere that he could be by himself, but thinking of the past he knew wasn't going to get him anywhere. So he made the decision to call someone.
****
Mimi opened her eyes at the sound of a car and smiled at the person getting out of it. Her smile got bigger and bigger and before she was even aware of what she was doing, she ended up running to the person and hugging him, nearly knocking him over.
Philip chuckled. "Meems, are you trying to knock me over AGAIN? I'm going to have to start taking inventory of how many times you have tried or succeeded in getting me down on the ground. He laughed again and then returned the hug.
The moment Mimi had hugged Philip she screamed "TOUCHDOWN!" making Philip laugh. She laughed with him now feeling gloriously happy and not even minding his teasing..that much.
"Don't you try to make me mad, you, not when I'm so happy!"
He could feel her arms wrapped around his neck and her cheek against his shoulder. He moved his hands up and down her back a little and then felt her pull back.
Mimi loosened her hands from around his neck and looked up at him.
Philip felt her grip loosen and then was looking down into her face, into her eyes that shined in the night.
Then he pulled away from her completely, taking a step back.
"What was that you said, you know when you let out that yell, what were you yelling about?" Philip asked innocently.
"Bend down a little Philip."
"What?"
"Bend down."
"Why?"
"Just do what I say." Mimi answered in a no-nonsense tone, waving her finger at him.
Philip warily bent his knees and slouched a little so he was closer to Mimi's height. Then he nearly gasped as she grabbed his arms and stood on tiptoe, holding onto him.
"Touchdown."
She whispered in his ear, causing him to tense up a little. She pulled back and looked at him.
"Now, did you hear what I said or should I repeat it?"
"Maybe you should." He winked at her.
"Not a chance!" Mimi remarked. She wondered why he hadn't stayed at the dance, but she didn't really want to talk about it now. She cared more about what they were going to do. "So where are we going? Am I dressed appropriately?" She asked teasingly, hoping she could get him to reveal where he was taking her.
Philip looked at her disapprovingly. "UH, uh, uh. Now, now, now I told you it's a SURPRISE and what you're wearing is fine." He took in her brown casual slacks, maroon sweater, her chocolate colored coat, brown boots and her hair falling down loosely around her face. "No trickery allowed." Philip said authoritatively.
"And what if I do try to trick you?" Mimi asked Philip sweetly.
Philip just smirked and led the way to the car.
****
Mimi sat next to Philip in the car, still wondering where he was taking her. She was surprised when he called her earlier and asked her if she wanted to go somewhere with him. Wasn't he at the dance? Then when she asked him where he wanted to go he said nothing. She asked him again and he told her she'd find out later.
Now they were on their way and he still hadn't given her even a hint. She thought back to the call. She congratulated him and his voice sounded a little surprised that she knew about the touchdown. She told him she was listening on the radio and he sounded pleased about that. She asked about Shawn and Belle and he happily told her that the last he saw of them, Shawn was fiddling with his crown while Belle had a 100-watt smile. Then he got quiet and said he'd be at her house soon and he hung up.
Mimi looked over at Philip, noticing that he was wearing a dark blue sweater, a very snug fitting sweater. And he looked.he looked good in it. All hail, King Kiriakis. He must be feeling like one right now with that winning touchdown.
"So Phil, tell me about the game. How was it? How did it feel to score your first touchdown in a while?"
"Awesome, Mimi. It felt awesome. I barely even remember running down the field. I was just feeling so great and the crowd was wild. It was just.I can't even describe it!" Philip smiled at Mimi excitedly.
"And I bet the reason why it felt so wonderful was because you worked so hard for this touchdown, right? You had to -"
"Struggle for it, fight for it?" Philip finished for her in words she had used about him before.
"Yeah."
"You're right, totally. I've scored so many touch downs.not that I'm bragging mind you." He gave her one of his roguish grins.
"Oh no Philip, not you." Mimi said teasingly.
Philip laughed softly. "Yeah, well..all those times it was great, but, ALL of my touchdowns put together can't even measure up to how great this ONE made me feel. I knew I had to WORK for this one so it was-"
"Special?" It was her turn to finish a sentence.
"Yeah, special." He smiled at her.
"So now will you tell me where we're going?"
"Not a chance."
"Well, you can't blame a girl for trying."
****
Philip got out of the car and Mimi followed suit, looking at where he had taken her. She scanned the area, taking in the rides, food stands, game booths and the whole spooky set-up.
"Ah-ha, the annual Salem Witches and Ghouls Carnival. I remember coming here as kids. So this was the surprise?" She asked him with a smile.
"Yep, like the idea?" He asked her with a grin. It felt good being with her. He felt relaxed now and happy, in contrast to how he felt at the dance.
"Yeah. Just don't you dare try to scare me. You know like on any of the rides or anything." She stopped and looked at him pointedly, sternly.
Philip stopped too, barely suppressing a grin at how serious she looked. Then he asked innocently "Would I do that?"
"YES. And if you try anything, you.well, you just better watch out."
"Ooohhh, I'm scared." Philip waved his arms in mock fright making a face.
Mimi grabbed his arm and pulled him along with her. "Come on."
"Hey!" Philip protested.
****
After walking around for a bit, Philip led Mimi over to a roller coaster type ride that had a steep incline that went straight up and a huge loop next to it Around the outside of it there were spider webs, mummies, witches and other eerie looking decorations. The ride was new. It was similar to the ones that you could see at major amusement parks, just a lot shorter.
Mimi looked at the ride, thinking it looked VERY unstable. And that part of the track that went straight up .a little steep there? What if it got stuck? She pulled her hand back. Uh-uh. No way was she getting on THAT.
Philip felt her hand leave his and looked back at her. "What ? What's wrong?" He asked her breezily.
"I'm not getting on that.that thing! I'd have to be crazy. She looked at the ride's name: "CAST A SPELL" Maybe it was witches that operated it. "Look at that crazy name."
"What's wrong Meems, you scared?" Philip teased, trying to entice her to go on the ride.
"Don't you even dare try to tease me Philip Robert Kiriakis. I'm not going and that's final. They probably cast spells on you or something."
"Who?" Philip asked with a curious frown.
"I don't know. The witches."
"Oh please, Mimi. You've got to be kidding."
"I'm not going." Mimi resolutely crossed her arms and stood her ground.
"Come on."
"NO."
"I'll buy you some cotton candy after."
"I'm not hungry."
"I'll win you a stuffed animal."
"I already have enough."
"They have NSYNC posters. I could win you one of those."
"I said no and no means-Wait a minute.did you say NSYNC?"
Philip smiled impishly. "Mmhm. And they're special for Halloween. See they're over there at that game where you throw the football through the tire. It'd be easy for me to get you one of those."
"I don't have enough money."
"It'll be my treat. Deal?"
Mimi looked at him weakly.
NSYNC.
THAT INCLINE .
NSYNC.
THAT LOOP.
Oh, what should she do?
Philip saw her debating about it in her mind, but he could also tell that she was very nervous about getting on the ride. He wanted her to go with him, but he didn't want her to be scared. He bent down a little so his eyes were level with hers.
"Hey, I'll be right there. You don't have to be scared, but I'm not going to force you. If you don't want to go we don't have to."
"But-" Mimi feebly protested.
"And I'll try to win you the poster anyway, all right?"
That did it. He was willing to get her the poster even if she didn't go with him. She looked at him and decided once and for all.
"I'll do it. I'll go with you."
Philip grinned and they got in line.
****
They were now near the end of the line and Mimi's fears were returning and she was feeling somewhat shaky. Philip saw it and placed his hands on her shoulders reassuringly.
"Hey, it'll be fun. You'll see." He rubbed her shoulders gently, noticing how tight her muscles felt. "Relax." He told her softly from where he was standing behind her.
Mimi was feeling scared, but Philip's gentle massage made her feel a little better.
Oh-oh. It was their turn to get on. She looked at Philip and he smiled back at her encouragingly. Then he got on and she followed his actions, surprised that there was nothing that went over their shoulders and head. There was just this flimsy looking bar that they pulled towards their stomach. THAT'S IT? There was no way that contraption was going to hold them in. She started to panic.
Philip noticed. "What, what is it?" He asked anxiously. She looked absolutely terrified. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all.
"This, this bar is it?! How is this THING going to keep us from falling out?" She asked him desperately.
Philip answered calmly and assuredly, like a parent speaking to a frightened child. "Mimi this bar IS enough. We are not going to fall out. Everything's cool. Don't worry so much." The expression on her face told him that nothing he just said was getting through to her. She was still scared stiff. "Look, if you really don't want to do this I'll get the operator and tell him we're getting off."
Philip started to call the operator, but Mimi stopped him.
"You would do that?"
"Sure I would."
"But you want to go on the ride. And some of these people that run the rides aren't very friendly. What if he says no?"
"Then I'll fight for you! Your well being comes first Miss Lockhart." Philip told her dramatically, imitating a hero from one of those old movies.
Mimi giggled. "You're nuts!" She smiled at him. "Well I've tried to be a better person this year and taking chances should be part of that. So.I'm not chickening out..I'm going on this ride." Mimi tried to sound determined, but she knew the fear in her voice was still coming through.
Philip had to smile in appreciation at how brave she was acting. She was putting up a good front, but he knew she was still uneasy.
"That's it Meems, face your fears! And here, if it'll make you feel better, I'll hold your hand all the way, okay?" He took his hand away from on his knee and placed it over her hand that was holding onto the bar tightly. He squeezed it gently.
Mimi looked at him, a little shakily. "Okay."
And the ride started. They started to move towards the loop and Mimi started to close her eyes.
"Keep them open! ", Philip called out. "Trust me all right."
Mimi reluctantly kept them open.
They went through the loop and Philip watched Mimi closely to see her reaction. She was smiling. She looked somewhat scared, but she was smiling and soon she was yelling with him and the other riders. Philip had his free hand up in the air and he felt Mimi start to move her hand that was under his and she started to move her other hand too as they went up the steep incline. Before he knew it, she was raising her hands up in the air as they went backwards down the incline and back through the loop.
Then it was over.
"That's it?" Mimi asked, sounding a little disappointed even.
"What, that wasn't enough?" Philip jokingly asked as they got off.
"It was short!" Mimi exclaimed as they walked out the gates to the carnival area.
"Yeah. But did you like it?"
"At first I was really scared."
"But after."
"I loved it!!"
"I could tell!"
"How?"
"You yelled right along with me and you had the biggest smile on your face." Philip squeezed her shoulders for a second and smiled contentedly at her.
"All right let's go." Mimi grabbed Philip's hand and pulled him along with her. "You owe me a poster Mr.K-man." Philip chuckled and followed along.
"You know Meems, I would think you already have enough NSYNC posters. Why do you want more? Feel like covering your room with them?" Philip joked as she kept hold of his hand and headed towards the game booths.
"Uh, I used to have a lot. But, after we lost our house, I also lost most of my things. I just held onto what I needed most and unfortunately, I couldn't keep everything. There really wasn't enough room in a tiny tent for posters and such."
She responded quietly while still walking, but Philip stopped and pulled back at her hand to get her attention and to get her to face him.
"Meems, I'm sorry. Can you forgive me for being a selfish jerk? It must have been so hard on you, not having anywhere to live, not having a house. I mean, when my house caught on fire I lost all my stuff too, but in no time I had a new house and new things. I've never had to deal with money problems." He looked at her earnestly.
"Well, losing your house in a fire couldn't have been easy either Philip. And my family's never been rich so it's never been something that's upset me that much, except when Connor was sick and my dad had to leave to find work. I'm used to it, not having that much money." She said seriously.
Then she jokingly replied "Hey, don't think you're going to get out of winning me my poster by stalling! You owe me buddy." She pointed her finger at him. "I went on that crazy ride with you, now it's your turn to do something for me." She looked at him sternly, noticing how he smiled at her gently.
"Mimi."
"Yes."
"Let's go win you that poster." With that, Philip led her off to the booth that had the posters.
****
Mimi now had two posters in her hand. Philip insisted on winning her two so she could decorate her walls. He also bought her some cotton candy that she was sharing with him. She pulled off another piece of it and handed it to him. He pulled at it, but it was sticking to her hand and when he pulled, it brought her much closer to him. Her hand hit his chest and for one tense second they just stared at each together. Then he nervously laughed.
"Ooops. Sorry. I didn't mean to practically yank your arm off."
His voice was soft and he looked at her with some shyness.
"And I didn't mean to hit you and get your sweater all sticky."
She started to wipe at it with her napkin a little shakily. Even with his black jacket on, she could see how good he looked in that sweater. Hmmm.
"Uh, Mimi."
She was so close to him and her hand kept wiping at his sweater, making him feel a little uneasy. He had to stop this! He took the napkin from her abruptly, trying to not be rough about it. "Uh, it's okay. I can do it. You didn't get that much on me anyways." He pulled back away from her, a little shakily. He wiped his sweater quickly and then said, "Uh, let's go play some more games."
****
"Okay Meems, your turn to pick a ride." Philip said to Mimi. They had gone to play some more games and then went on some more rides, though nothing as scary or exciting as the "Spell" ride as Mimi liked to call it. She now had, in addition to her posters, a cute little stuffed black cat wearing a witch's hat that she was carrying. Philip won it for her by knocking down some milk bottles.
Mimi looked around for a ride that would be fun, then saw one that was kind of old fashioned and original too.
"Let's go on the "Full Moon Hayride."
"You sure you want to go on that? What if we run into a werewolf? He might try to take away one of your posters or cat." Philip jokingly replied.
"Oh Phil, you're a laugh a minute." Mimi replied dryly. "It's my choice and that's what I pick."
"Okay, Miss." Philip said with a little salute.
It didn't take them long to get on the ride because the line was short. The ride was simply a wagon pulled by horses with hay in the back and blankets. The driver started letting people on and when it was their turn, Mimi got on first followed by Philip. They sat down against the side of the wagon. Philip handed Mimi a blanket and settled himself against the side.
"What about you? Don't you need a blanket?"
Mimi asked Philip, from where she was sitting next to him.
"I'm okay."
Truthfully, Philip was a little cold. The fog had settled in, typical of Salem nights, and it brought with it a chill.
"No Philip. It's a lot colder. We can share."
Mimi spread the blanket out over both of them, making sure that it covered their legs.
Philip smiled a little.
"Thanks."
The ride started and they settled in. The wagon made its way down a dirt path, surrounded by trees. A person looking like a ghoul jumped out. Mimi jumped a little herself. The fog and trees hid the person from view and she hadn't been ready for the shock.
Philip moved in a little closer.
"You alright?"
He asked softly. Most of his joking sense from earlier had gone. He was feeling kind of tired now and he could tell that Mimi might be a little jumpy, but that she also was getting somewhat drowsy.
She nodded her head, but stayed near him.
More things and people jumped out along the way, usually causing Mimi to jump a little. Actually, the more she saw the fog and had things jumping out at her, the more she started to remember the night on the pier and the stranger.
She thought of his eerie words and trembled, causing Philip to become concerned.
"Meems, what's wrong?"
He looked at her for a second and then gestured with his hand.
"Come here."
He didn't wait for her though. He took his arm and gently wrapped it around her shoulder, letting his hand rest lightly against her forearm. Then he moved her a little so her head was against his shoulder.
Just as he did so, the wagon turned onto another dirt path that seemed much quieter and settled.
Mimi was glad there wasn't anything jumping out at then anymore. It was nice that this part of the ride was peaceful. She rested her head against Philip's shoulder, feeling him move the blanket around her more. Warmed by the blanket and his close proximity, she sighed contentedly.
Philip spoke softly.
"I don't think you cared too much about all those things and people jumping out at you, huh, but you're the one who chose this ride." He laughed very softly and then spoke in a whisper.
"You feel better now?"
"Mhmm."
"Good. You must be tired from cleaning out those locker rooms this afternoon and walking with Jan probably didn't help?"
"Yes to both parts. Philip?"
The ride continued, the wagon slowly moving down the dirt path.
"Yeah?"
"Are you tired too?"
"Kind of. The game made me feel a little drained, you know?"
He spoke softly, his head close to hers as he wearily rested it against the side of the wagon.
Around them, the sky was dark and the only sounds, other than people talking on the ride, were of the wagon rolling along the trail and the clip clopping sound of the horses.
Mimi answered him in a whisper.
"I thought so. I was so happy for you tonight."
"Thanks. But a lot of it's because of you."
"What do you mean?"
"You made me realize that I wasn't invincible, that if I wanted to play better I was going to have to work at it and not give up. You inspired me."
He spoke to her very softly, her head against his shoulder keeping him warm. Then slowly he looked down at her. Snuggled up in that blanket she looked so young and vulnerable. A tired smile came to his face.
"You did everything; you made it happen, not me."
Mimi quietly responded, feeling very comfortable right now and at ease. It felt good having his arm around her and his hand that was resting lightly against her forearm took away from the cold air.
Philip shook his head in response.
"No. You had a lot to do with it."
Mimi was too tired to argue. Besides, she wanted to know the answer to something else.
"Philip?"
"Hmmm?"
"How come you didn't stay at the dance?"
He thought back to how unhappy he had been at the dance and how he felt now. Sighing quietly, he answered her.
"Because I wasn't enjoying myself."
She wondered about his answer and how he turned somewhat quiet earlier when she talked to him on the phone. Something seemed to make him unhappy, but what she really wanted to know was how he felt at the present time.
"Are you enjoying yourself now?"
Philip thought about her question, feeling her hair tickling against his neck a little and smiled.
"Yes I am."
Mimi's face lit up a little at his answer.
The darkness of the night surrounded them as the wagon started to return to its starting point.
Both stopped talking, closing their eyes as they rested against each other. Warm and content in their friendly closeness.
Neither was aware of the shadowed figure watching them, especially watching her, smiling an eerie smile.
They simply enjoyed the company of each other and their friendship being renewed as it grew even stronger.
Unaware of any danger.
Philip, Mimi, Chloe, Shawn and Belle sat at a table in the Salem High courtyard. Music was blaring from a set of speakers as a deejay played the most popular hits. The courtyard was crowded and loud because of it. It may have also had to do with the fact that tonight was the homecoming game and the homecoming dance. Excitement filled the air and not even the slightly chilly weather could put a damper on everyone's mood.
Mimi was actually enjoying the weather, liking the crispness in the air and seeing the leaves of various fall colors litter the ground. It was a nice familiar reminder of living in the New England area. It also meant she could start wearing warm sweaters, boots and the list went on. Today she was wearing blue and yellow as most of Salem High was, showing off their school spirit. She had on her block jacket from soccer, a blue sweater and jeans. She looked over at Philip wearing blue jeans, his Salem High football jersey and his block jacket. Belle had on her Salem High cheerleading outfit, of course finished off with Shawn's block jacket. Shawn himself, was wearing his football jersey, blue jeans and his leather jacket. As for Chloe, she was wearing blue jeans, a yellow mock turtleneck and a blue jacket. And Mimi wondered how on earth the five of them actually ended up sitting together.
Actually, Shawn and Belle sat down together first when a little later Philip popped by and sat with them. Then came Mimi and when Chloe came to talk to Belle, room was quickly made for her. Shawn and Belle were sitting together and Mimi was sitting next to Belle. Across from them, with some distance between them, sat Chloe and Philip. They were all in a celebratory mood, not only because of homecoming, but because Philip was actually going to be playing his first game of the season.
"Okay you guys the K-man's back and tonight's game is going to rock!" Philip had a smile of pure delight on his face.
"And why is that? I mean what's so different about tonight's game? I don't see anything different about it."
Shawn teased his friend with a straight face.
Philip gave him a dirty look and then continued. "I told you! I'm back! And Kiriakis is going to rule the field!" The girls laughed and smiled.
"Uh, aren't you getting ahead of yourself, Phil?" Shawn asked him, only half-joking. He was psyched about the game too, but he hoped his friend wouldn't get over-confident. After all, it was his first game in a long time. What if Philip didn't play well? Sure he was getting better every day of practice, but.......
He just hoped the game wouldn't be a letdown.
Shawn's comment made Philip angry at first, but he knew deep down that he was just concerned about him and truth be told, Philip was kind of scared about the upcoming game himself. What if he played miserably?
He saw Mimi look at him with some unease in her eyes. She knows, he thought. She knows that I'm unsure too. Of course she did. She was one of his closest confidantes lately and they had talked about his football problems. He smiled at her, quickly and reassuringly, then with a grin responded to Shawn.
"No I'm not Shawn. I mean what's wrong with a little boasting, huh? But I'm not going to get all over excited. I'm just going to play my best tonight. And I know I'm going to score a touchdown. I can just feel it." Philip smiled at his friends.
"You're right Philip. I have a great feeling about tonight's game. I just know you guys are going to play well, all of you!" Belle said inspirationally.
"What would we do without you Belle, our number one inspirational cheerleader?" Chloe teasingly smiled at her friend.
Belle rose to the occasion, making all of her friends break out into laughter as she stood up on the bench and began to cheer. "WE"RE NUMBER ONE! WE"RE NUMBER ONE! GO PANTHERS! GO PANTHERS! GO PANTHERS!" Students turned around to look, some laughing and some just watching, amused.
Shawn stood up on the bench and gently helped Belle down, teasing her. "Okay, okay. Down girl." Everyone laughed, watching Shawn and Belle sit back down on the bench. Then the whole courtyard exploded into applause and chants of "SALEM HIGH! SALEM HIGH!"
Eventually, the chanting died down.
"Got it all out of your system, Belle?" Mimi jokingly asked her friend.
"Yes, I did." Belle said with a cute little grin. "Until tonight that is. Just wait until tonight! OH, I'm so excited!"
"Is one of the reasons you're so excited because you and Shawn are a shoe- in for homecoming king and queen?" Philip lightheartedly asked.
"Oh come on Philly. You're the king of Salem High." Shawn said.
"Yeah, but you and Belle are the most popular couple now; there's no way you guys aren't going to win!" Mimi replied with conviction.
Philip smiled. "Meems is right. You guys are going to win, no doubt about it."
Chloe spoke up also. "Besides, it's your turn. You guys deserve it."
Belle and Shawn just smiled at each other.
Then Belle said, "Now look who are being cheerleaders. You guys are the best, but I'm really looking forward to seeing Philip play tonight. All the cheerleaders have missed you." She said directly to him.
"And what about me?" Shawn asked with a sad puppy dogface.
"You know you're my number one guy." Belle said in a sweet voice. He gave her a sweet kiss in return.
"AAAAAAAWWWWWWW!" Philip, Mimi and Chloe said in unison.
"Ah, knock it off you guys!" Shawn replied with a touch of embarrassment. "I agree with Belle. Seriously Phil, it'll be great to have you on the team again."
"I'm looking forward to seeing you play tonight." Chloe said happily.
Philip was shocked. Was that enthusiasm he heard in her voice? About him? Sometimes when they had gone out he felt like she was bored or not entirely happy, but now she sounded different. She must be going to the game with Brady. Or maybe by not spending so much time together they were actually growing closer. Maybe just being friends with each other wouldn't be so bad.
"You're going to the game?" He asked her.
"Of course she is!" Belle responded.
"Yes. With Brady." Chloe said a little tentatively, not sure what Philip's reaction would be.
Philip noticed all of his friends looking at him, waiting to see what his response would be. Fine he would reply with total calmness. Let's see how they would react to that.
"Oh, that's good. It'll give me a bigger cheering section!"
Chloe smiled warmly at him and the rest of his friends gave him a look of approval.
"Chloe's even going to get ready at my house. Meems you have to come too and we."
Belle's voice broke off awkwardly as she remembered.
Philip sought out Mimi's face, locking eyes with her for a minute. She looked so sad at first, but she quickly covered it up. He saw it though. He wasn't sure who else saw it, but he definitely did. Part of Mimi's punishment for the internet prank was that she couldn't attend any school functions unless they were academic in nature. Philip knew that it was better than going to jail, but it was their senior year. It couldn't be easy for her.
"Mimi, I'm so sorry." Belle apologized, feeling horrible. Not only did Mimi look a little sad, but Chloe also looked uncomfortable.
"Hey Belle it's alright. I can spend more time with my family and catch up on any movies I've missed. It's no big deal."
Mimi's voice broke off a little sadly. She really wished she could come to tonight's game. She wanted to see Philip play and what a treat it would be to see Shawn and Belle be crowned and dance together as homecoming king and queen. Instead, she'd be spending the first part of the night with Jan complaining and the second part....
NO! No feeling sorry for herself.
Looking at everyone's faces and feeling the awkwardness, Shawn decided that a change of subject was in order. "Hey you guys, did you hear what's planned for Halloween this year?"
"Trick or treating?" Philip questioned dryly.
"The latest Salem witch convention?" Chloe asked spookily.
"The Frankenstein look-alike contest?" Mimi chimed in.
"My Birthday!" Belle jubilantly replied."
"NO!"
Shawn looked at them and shook his head. "They're doing this thing this year where they're going to decorate these old houses like haunted houses."
"Yeah, and you can tour them." Mimi joined in.
"They're going to make them look all spooky." Philip added his part.
"With witches and ghosts and spider webs." Chloe added.
"And the houses are going to be all close together so you can visit one after the other!" Belle said excitedly.
"Yeah, that's what I'm talking about you guys. What do you think? Doesn't it actually sound kind of cool?" Shawn asked his friends.
"I'm for it and we can all go because it's not a school thing." Philip responded and looked over at Mimi with a wink.
Mimi smiled. "I'm there then."
"Me too. It sounds like fun and Brady's been saying he's interested." Chloe added.
"And we can celebrate my birthday!" Belle chimed in.
Everyone just laughed.
****
Philip stood on the field, waiting. He was getting ready for the last play of the night and he was anxious. The score was nearly tied. It was up to him to score the winning touchdown. Ha, ha, ha! No pressure there!
Philip looked over at Shawn who gave him an encouraging glance. Shawn had actually played great tonight, scoring two touchdowns. Now it was Philip's chance. He was glad he got to play in the game, even though his time on the field was limited, thanks to his doctor. He had to admit, he was somewhat tired too. He looked over across the field and saw Belle with the other cheerleaders leading a cheer all about him: The K-man. Earlier they had cheered specially for Shawn. Now it was his turn. He looked up into the stands and saw Chloe and Brady sitting together, signaling to him encouragingly. He smiled back at them. And even though she wasn't there, Philip could feel Mimi there with him in spirit. Too bad she really couldn't be there. He missed her enthusiasm.
Okay, enough musing. It was up to him now. He had to do it. For the team and for himself.
The final play of the night started. Philip ran down the field with the ball and......................................................................... .........
Shawn had done his part and now he could just watch. "Come on buddy, you can do it. Come on."
Belle and all the other cheerleaders stood watching in total silence. "Go Philip. Go Philip." Belle chanted silently in her mind.
Brady could feel Chloe holding onto his hand tightly as they watched in anticipation. "Come on Uncle Phil, you got it. It's in the bag." Brady thought to himself.
Chloe clutched Brady's hand watching Philip nervously. "Please, please let him do it." She thought, knowing it was important to Philip.
And Mimi was at home glued to the radio with her own thoughts. "You can do it Philly, I know you can! Just believe in yourself!" She closed her eyes and pictured him in her mind, running down the field with the ball, with the grace and speed of a panther. Because that's what he had always looked like to her when she saw him play.
Philip ran down the field with the ball, feeling a surge of energy and a rush of adrenaline as the crowd chanted "KIRIAKIS, KIRIAKIS!" over and over again. He raced down the field, barely noticing the opposing players charging towards him.
And his friends at the game watched, waited and hoped, as one of them at home, kept picturing him in her mind, leading the team to victory.
Philip didn't even know what happened until he heard the roar of the crowd and saw his teammates running towards him. He looked up at the scoreboard telling the story. They won!! And he scored the winning touchdown!! He actually did it!! Philip whooped with joy and threw the ball down on the field, feeling himself being picked up as his teammates carried him on their shoulders. He threw back his head in abandon and let out a jubilant cry. Then he looked over and noticed his friends.
Belle was with the other cheerleaders, jumping up and down for joy.
Chloe was up in the stands hugging Brady victoriously and then the two of them looked down at Philip and gave him a big thumbs up.
At home, Mimi was screaming out "YES, YES, YES!!" not caring who saw her and how crazy she might look.
Little did she know that Philip as he joined hands with Shawn (who was also being carried) was thinking of her, somehow knowing that she had been there with him, in his mind, cheering him on.
"Thanks Meems," he said silently with a smile.
****
Philip walked into the gym, all decked out for the homecoming dance, the music once again blaring from the speakers. He was now wearing a tight navy blue sweater and black jeans with black boots. He walked in to applause from the whole school. "Thanks you guys", he said with a little modesty. "Now, enough of this! Get back to dancing!" He called out lightheartedly.
Everyone resumed dancing and soon he noticed the homecoming king and queen off in their own little world.
Philip watched Shawn and Belle dance, Shawn fiddling with his crown, as they danced to their song and he chuckled at the sight. He knew Shawn wasn't crazy about wearing it, but they sure looked good together.
When the dance ended, they walked over to him. Belle nearly ran, giving him a big hug. "Philip, I'm so, so, so happy for you! You were wonderful!"
Philip smiled and thanked her returning the hug.
"Hey what about me?" Shawn replied jokingly.
"Ooohh! You are so demanding sometimes!" Belle responded with a laugh. "I guess I'll just have to SHOW you how much you mean to me." And with that she gave him a kiss, straightening out his crown afterwards.
Shawn frowned a little, looking up at the irritating crown. Oh, what he had to do for his Belle sometimes.
Philip laughed. "What's wrong, Shawn? Having problems with that crown?"
"Problems? He loves it!" Belle snuggled up against her boyfriend and he happily held her close in return.
Philip softly laughed again with a smile. "Okay you guys, two's company, three's a crowd. I think it's time for me to get lost."
"I know a lot of girls that are just dying to dance with you!" Belle teased.
Philip just smiled and softly laughed.
"Isn't this great you guys?" Belle enthusiastically asked. "I just wish Meems could be here. I miss her." She said a little sadly.
"Yeah, it is kind of too bad she couldn't come. Other than you Belle, no one yells better." Philip replied.
"Yeah it's different without Mimi. Anyways, great touchdown tonight Phil." Shawn tried to lighten the mood.
"You too, Bro. Two touchdowns in one night! But don't worry, I'm on the mend." Philip challenged.
"Yeah, well-" Shawn retorted.
"Okay, okay that's enough you two." Belle broke in. "OOhh, I love this song! Let's go dance, baby!" Belle grabbed Shawn's arm as one of her favorite songs came on.
Philip laughed, watching as Shawn waved back at him helplessly as Belle pulled him out to the dance floor. However, he knew they were both happy now, blissfully happy.
Next Philip scoped out Brady and Chloe dancing together, very close. She sure looked beautiful and happy..
With him. He didn't want to admit it, but it was true. It didn't actually make him happy, but he felt none of the previous outrageous jealousy and anger he used to feel at seeing them together. Chloe noticed him and smiled and he smiled back at her and returned Brady's thumbs up sign.
Suddenly, he felt a hand brush over his chest and then lightly land on his shoulder as he looked and saw Gretchen, one of the cheerleaders, looking at him with a flirtatious smile. She definitely looked good. There was a time that good looks would have been enough for Philip, but not anymore. He returned her smile politely, but not with much warmth.
"Oh my gosh, Philip you were so wonderful tonight. Everyone's talking about it." She looked at him enticingly.
"Thanks Gretchen." Philip managed to respond, sounding somewhat bored.
"Since it looks like we're both alone here tonight would you dance with me?" She ran her hand up and down his arm, smiling coquettishly.
Philip smiled back charmingly. "Sure. Why not?"
And with that he took her outstretched hand and led her out to the dance floor, feeling her holding him closely as a slow song started. He held her more loosely looking down at her smiling face and then looking away, feeling her rest her head against his shoulder. He just sighed and stared blankly ahead. After that finished they danced to a fast song. He didn't really want to, but she insisted and he wasn't in the mood to say no.
What happened to his good mood? Out on the field tonight he felt wonderful, but then he came to the dance and felt.
He was glad that Shawn and Belle were so happy, but it was hard too, seeing how wonderful they felt together. He had that at one time. He thought of Chloe and how close she and Brady seemed to be growing. All of it just made him feel so left out.
The song ended, the beginning beats of the next song started, and Philip closed his eyes for a second in disbelief. He would know that opening anywhere, the guitar cords, the violins.
{I don't need a lot of things
I can get by with nothing
Of all the blessings life can bring
I've only needed one thing}
That song! Holding her in his arms at the Last Blast Dance.
Calling her Ghoul Girl.
He felt sick inside. He scanned the room, but she was nowhere to be found. They must have left earlier. And right now he had to get out of there.
Gretchen took his hand for him to dance with her, but with a painful look Philip let go and walked away, not saying a single word to her. Then he grabbed his jacket and walked out of the gym.
{But I've got all I want
When it comes to loving you}
Shawn and Belle saw it all.
"What, what did I do?" Gretchen asked them.
"It wasn't you." Belle sadly replied.
"It was the song." Shawn finished.
{You're my only reason,
You're my only truth.}
****
Philip walked out of the gym, speeding up his pace little by little, rushing until he could hear the song no longer. He didn't care where he was going; all he knew was he needed to be away from that song.
The memories it brought.
Some Beautiful.
Some Painful.
He found himself back at the football field where he had been so happy later. Now he felt.
Empty
How did things get so messed up?
He sat down on one of the bleachers and let his head fall to his knees. He should be ecstatic now, but.
That song, that song just had to be playing. At one time it caused him such joy; now it just caused him pain.
He lifted his head and leaned back against the bleachers.
Enough of this. He was alive. ALIVE. There was a time, a horrible time that he thought he would never see the people he loved and cared about again. He was afraid he might die and now here he was alive and well, with friends and family that loved and cared about him.
Friends.
Hmmm. There was one friend who lately made him laugh and feel good.
Meems, why can't you be here? I wish.
He looked up at the sky for a moment and then took out his cell phone, punching in the number, then speaking after someone answered on the other side.
"Hey, it's me. Listen, do you want to do something?"
Song Credit: I Need You: By Le Ann Rimes
Chapter 14: Reinforced
Mimi looked up at the sky, crossing her arms over her legs. She was sitting on her porch, feeling in a pretty good mood. Philip scored a touchdown!! She heard it on the radio and was overwhelmed with happiness. She was proud of him. He did it! He must be feeling wonderful now. Sure, she didn't get to go to the dance or game, but at least something good happened. She leaned her head back against the wall and closed her eyes.
****
Earlier.
Philip almost rushed to his car from the bleachers, well his Dad's car. He got in and started on his way. . The game had been the best, but the moment he entered the dance and saw Chloe and Brady and even Shawn and Belle so happy together, he had felt.empty. Dancing with Gretchen if anything, only made him feel more so. Then hearing that song was the breaking factor. He had to get out of there. Therefore, he went somewhere that he could be by himself, but thinking of the past he knew wasn't going to get him anywhere. So he made the decision to call someone.
****
Mimi opened her eyes at the sound of a car and smiled at the person getting out of it. Her smile got bigger and bigger and before she was even aware of what she was doing, she ended up running to the person and hugging him, nearly knocking him over.
Philip chuckled. "Meems, are you trying to knock me over AGAIN? I'm going to have to start taking inventory of how many times you have tried or succeeded in getting me down on the ground. He laughed again and then returned the hug.
The moment Mimi had hugged Philip she screamed "TOUCHDOWN!" making Philip laugh. She laughed with him now feeling gloriously happy and not even minding his teasing..that much.
"Don't you try to make me mad, you, not when I'm so happy!"
He could feel her arms wrapped around his neck and her cheek against his shoulder. He moved his hands up and down her back a little and then felt her pull back.
Mimi loosened her hands from around his neck and looked up at him.
Philip felt her grip loosen and then was looking down into her face, into her eyes that shined in the night.
Then he pulled away from her completely, taking a step back.
"What was that you said, you know when you let out that yell, what were you yelling about?" Philip asked innocently.
"Bend down a little Philip."
"What?"
"Bend down."
"Why?"
"Just do what I say." Mimi answered in a no-nonsense tone, waving her finger at him.
Philip warily bent his knees and slouched a little so he was closer to Mimi's height. Then he nearly gasped as she grabbed his arms and stood on tiptoe, holding onto him.
"Touchdown."
She whispered in his ear, causing him to tense up a little. She pulled back and looked at him.
"Now, did you hear what I said or should I repeat it?"
"Maybe you should." He winked at her.
"Not a chance!" Mimi remarked. She wondered why he hadn't stayed at the dance, but she didn't really want to talk about it now. She cared more about what they were going to do. "So where are we going? Am I dressed appropriately?" She asked teasingly, hoping she could get him to reveal where he was taking her.
Philip looked at her disapprovingly. "UH, uh, uh. Now, now, now I told you it's a SURPRISE and what you're wearing is fine." He took in her brown casual slacks, maroon sweater, her chocolate colored coat, brown boots and her hair falling down loosely around her face. "No trickery allowed." Philip said authoritatively.
"And what if I do try to trick you?" Mimi asked Philip sweetly.
Philip just smirked and led the way to the car.
****
Mimi sat next to Philip in the car, still wondering where he was taking her. She was surprised when he called her earlier and asked her if she wanted to go somewhere with him. Wasn't he at the dance? Then when she asked him where he wanted to go he said nothing. She asked him again and he told her she'd find out later.
Now they were on their way and he still hadn't given her even a hint. She thought back to the call. She congratulated him and his voice sounded a little surprised that she knew about the touchdown. She told him she was listening on the radio and he sounded pleased about that. She asked about Shawn and Belle and he happily told her that the last he saw of them, Shawn was fiddling with his crown while Belle had a 100-watt smile. Then he got quiet and said he'd be at her house soon and he hung up.
Mimi looked over at Philip, noticing that he was wearing a dark blue sweater, a very snug fitting sweater. And he looked.he looked good in it. All hail, King Kiriakis. He must be feeling like one right now with that winning touchdown.
"So Phil, tell me about the game. How was it? How did it feel to score your first touchdown in a while?"
"Awesome, Mimi. It felt awesome. I barely even remember running down the field. I was just feeling so great and the crowd was wild. It was just.I can't even describe it!" Philip smiled at Mimi excitedly.
"And I bet the reason why it felt so wonderful was because you worked so hard for this touchdown, right? You had to -"
"Struggle for it, fight for it?" Philip finished for her in words she had used about him before.
"Yeah."
"You're right, totally. I've scored so many touch downs.not that I'm bragging mind you." He gave her one of his roguish grins.
"Oh no Philip, not you." Mimi said teasingly.
Philip laughed softly. "Yeah, well..all those times it was great, but, ALL of my touchdowns put together can't even measure up to how great this ONE made me feel. I knew I had to WORK for this one so it was-"
"Special?" It was her turn to finish a sentence.
"Yeah, special." He smiled at her.
"So now will you tell me where we're going?"
"Not a chance."
"Well, you can't blame a girl for trying."
****
Philip got out of the car and Mimi followed suit, looking at where he had taken her. She scanned the area, taking in the rides, food stands, game booths and the whole spooky set-up.
"Ah-ha, the annual Salem Witches and Ghouls Carnival. I remember coming here as kids. So this was the surprise?" She asked him with a smile.
"Yep, like the idea?" He asked her with a grin. It felt good being with her. He felt relaxed now and happy, in contrast to how he felt at the dance.
"Yeah. Just don't you dare try to scare me. You know like on any of the rides or anything." She stopped and looked at him pointedly, sternly.
Philip stopped too, barely suppressing a grin at how serious she looked. Then he asked innocently "Would I do that?"
"YES. And if you try anything, you.well, you just better watch out."
"Ooohhh, I'm scared." Philip waved his arms in mock fright making a face.
Mimi grabbed his arm and pulled him along with her. "Come on."
"Hey!" Philip protested.
****
After walking around for a bit, Philip led Mimi over to a roller coaster type ride that had a steep incline that went straight up and a huge loop next to it Around the outside of it there were spider webs, mummies, witches and other eerie looking decorations. The ride was new. It was similar to the ones that you could see at major amusement parks, just a lot shorter.
Mimi looked at the ride, thinking it looked VERY unstable. And that part of the track that went straight up .a little steep there? What if it got stuck? She pulled her hand back. Uh-uh. No way was she getting on THAT.
Philip felt her hand leave his and looked back at her. "What ? What's wrong?" He asked her breezily.
"I'm not getting on that.that thing! I'd have to be crazy. She looked at the ride's name: "CAST A SPELL" Maybe it was witches that operated it. "Look at that crazy name."
"What's wrong Meems, you scared?" Philip teased, trying to entice her to go on the ride.
"Don't you even dare try to tease me Philip Robert Kiriakis. I'm not going and that's final. They probably cast spells on you or something."
"Who?" Philip asked with a curious frown.
"I don't know. The witches."
"Oh please, Mimi. You've got to be kidding."
"I'm not going." Mimi resolutely crossed her arms and stood her ground.
"Come on."
"NO."
"I'll buy you some cotton candy after."
"I'm not hungry."
"I'll win you a stuffed animal."
"I already have enough."
"They have NSYNC posters. I could win you one of those."
"I said no and no means-Wait a minute.did you say NSYNC?"
Philip smiled impishly. "Mmhm. And they're special for Halloween. See they're over there at that game where you throw the football through the tire. It'd be easy for me to get you one of those."
"I don't have enough money."
"It'll be my treat. Deal?"
Mimi looked at him weakly.
NSYNC.
THAT INCLINE .
NSYNC.
THAT LOOP.
Oh, what should she do?
Philip saw her debating about it in her mind, but he could also tell that she was very nervous about getting on the ride. He wanted her to go with him, but he didn't want her to be scared. He bent down a little so his eyes were level with hers.
"Hey, I'll be right there. You don't have to be scared, but I'm not going to force you. If you don't want to go we don't have to."
"But-" Mimi feebly protested.
"And I'll try to win you the poster anyway, all right?"
That did it. He was willing to get her the poster even if she didn't go with him. She looked at him and decided once and for all.
"I'll do it. I'll go with you."
Philip grinned and they got in line.
****
They were now near the end of the line and Mimi's fears were returning and she was feeling somewhat shaky. Philip saw it and placed his hands on her shoulders reassuringly.
"Hey, it'll be fun. You'll see." He rubbed her shoulders gently, noticing how tight her muscles felt. "Relax." He told her softly from where he was standing behind her.
Mimi was feeling scared, but Philip's gentle massage made her feel a little better.
Oh-oh. It was their turn to get on. She looked at Philip and he smiled back at her encouragingly. Then he got on and she followed his actions, surprised that there was nothing that went over their shoulders and head. There was just this flimsy looking bar that they pulled towards their stomach. THAT'S IT? There was no way that contraption was going to hold them in. She started to panic.
Philip noticed. "What, what is it?" He asked anxiously. She looked absolutely terrified. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all.
"This, this bar is it?! How is this THING going to keep us from falling out?" She asked him desperately.
Philip answered calmly and assuredly, like a parent speaking to a frightened child. "Mimi this bar IS enough. We are not going to fall out. Everything's cool. Don't worry so much." The expression on her face told him that nothing he just said was getting through to her. She was still scared stiff. "Look, if you really don't want to do this I'll get the operator and tell him we're getting off."
Philip started to call the operator, but Mimi stopped him.
"You would do that?"
"Sure I would."
"But you want to go on the ride. And some of these people that run the rides aren't very friendly. What if he says no?"
"Then I'll fight for you! Your well being comes first Miss Lockhart." Philip told her dramatically, imitating a hero from one of those old movies.
Mimi giggled. "You're nuts!" She smiled at him. "Well I've tried to be a better person this year and taking chances should be part of that. So.I'm not chickening out..I'm going on this ride." Mimi tried to sound determined, but she knew the fear in her voice was still coming through.
Philip had to smile in appreciation at how brave she was acting. She was putting up a good front, but he knew she was still uneasy.
"That's it Meems, face your fears! And here, if it'll make you feel better, I'll hold your hand all the way, okay?" He took his hand away from on his knee and placed it over her hand that was holding onto the bar tightly. He squeezed it gently.
Mimi looked at him, a little shakily. "Okay."
And the ride started. They started to move towards the loop and Mimi started to close her eyes.
"Keep them open! ", Philip called out. "Trust me all right."
Mimi reluctantly kept them open.
They went through the loop and Philip watched Mimi closely to see her reaction. She was smiling. She looked somewhat scared, but she was smiling and soon she was yelling with him and the other riders. Philip had his free hand up in the air and he felt Mimi start to move her hand that was under his and she started to move her other hand too as they went up the steep incline. Before he knew it, she was raising her hands up in the air as they went backwards down the incline and back through the loop.
Then it was over.
"That's it?" Mimi asked, sounding a little disappointed even.
"What, that wasn't enough?" Philip jokingly asked as they got off.
"It was short!" Mimi exclaimed as they walked out the gates to the carnival area.
"Yeah. But did you like it?"
"At first I was really scared."
"But after."
"I loved it!!"
"I could tell!"
"How?"
"You yelled right along with me and you had the biggest smile on your face." Philip squeezed her shoulders for a second and smiled contentedly at her.
"All right let's go." Mimi grabbed Philip's hand and pulled him along with her. "You owe me a poster Mr.K-man." Philip chuckled and followed along.
"You know Meems, I would think you already have enough NSYNC posters. Why do you want more? Feel like covering your room with them?" Philip joked as she kept hold of his hand and headed towards the game booths.
"Uh, I used to have a lot. But, after we lost our house, I also lost most of my things. I just held onto what I needed most and unfortunately, I couldn't keep everything. There really wasn't enough room in a tiny tent for posters and such."
She responded quietly while still walking, but Philip stopped and pulled back at her hand to get her attention and to get her to face him.
"Meems, I'm sorry. Can you forgive me for being a selfish jerk? It must have been so hard on you, not having anywhere to live, not having a house. I mean, when my house caught on fire I lost all my stuff too, but in no time I had a new house and new things. I've never had to deal with money problems." He looked at her earnestly.
"Well, losing your house in a fire couldn't have been easy either Philip. And my family's never been rich so it's never been something that's upset me that much, except when Connor was sick and my dad had to leave to find work. I'm used to it, not having that much money." She said seriously.
Then she jokingly replied "Hey, don't think you're going to get out of winning me my poster by stalling! You owe me buddy." She pointed her finger at him. "I went on that crazy ride with you, now it's your turn to do something for me." She looked at him sternly, noticing how he smiled at her gently.
"Mimi."
"Yes."
"Let's go win you that poster." With that, Philip led her off to the booth that had the posters.
****
Mimi now had two posters in her hand. Philip insisted on winning her two so she could decorate her walls. He also bought her some cotton candy that she was sharing with him. She pulled off another piece of it and handed it to him. He pulled at it, but it was sticking to her hand and when he pulled, it brought her much closer to him. Her hand hit his chest and for one tense second they just stared at each together. Then he nervously laughed.
"Ooops. Sorry. I didn't mean to practically yank your arm off."
His voice was soft and he looked at her with some shyness.
"And I didn't mean to hit you and get your sweater all sticky."
She started to wipe at it with her napkin a little shakily. Even with his black jacket on, she could see how good he looked in that sweater. Hmmm.
"Uh, Mimi."
She was so close to him and her hand kept wiping at his sweater, making him feel a little uneasy. He had to stop this! He took the napkin from her abruptly, trying to not be rough about it. "Uh, it's okay. I can do it. You didn't get that much on me anyways." He pulled back away from her, a little shakily. He wiped his sweater quickly and then said, "Uh, let's go play some more games."
****
"Okay Meems, your turn to pick a ride." Philip said to Mimi. They had gone to play some more games and then went on some more rides, though nothing as scary or exciting as the "Spell" ride as Mimi liked to call it. She now had, in addition to her posters, a cute little stuffed black cat wearing a witch's hat that she was carrying. Philip won it for her by knocking down some milk bottles.
Mimi looked around for a ride that would be fun, then saw one that was kind of old fashioned and original too.
"Let's go on the "Full Moon Hayride."
"You sure you want to go on that? What if we run into a werewolf? He might try to take away one of your posters or cat." Philip jokingly replied.
"Oh Phil, you're a laugh a minute." Mimi replied dryly. "It's my choice and that's what I pick."
"Okay, Miss." Philip said with a little salute.
It didn't take them long to get on the ride because the line was short. The ride was simply a wagon pulled by horses with hay in the back and blankets. The driver started letting people on and when it was their turn, Mimi got on first followed by Philip. They sat down against the side of the wagon. Philip handed Mimi a blanket and settled himself against the side.
"What about you? Don't you need a blanket?"
Mimi asked Philip, from where she was sitting next to him.
"I'm okay."
Truthfully, Philip was a little cold. The fog had settled in, typical of Salem nights, and it brought with it a chill.
"No Philip. It's a lot colder. We can share."
Mimi spread the blanket out over both of them, making sure that it covered their legs.
Philip smiled a little.
"Thanks."
The ride started and they settled in. The wagon made its way down a dirt path, surrounded by trees. A person looking like a ghoul jumped out. Mimi jumped a little herself. The fog and trees hid the person from view and she hadn't been ready for the shock.
Philip moved in a little closer.
"You alright?"
He asked softly. Most of his joking sense from earlier had gone. He was feeling kind of tired now and he could tell that Mimi might be a little jumpy, but that she also was getting somewhat drowsy.
She nodded her head, but stayed near him.
More things and people jumped out along the way, usually causing Mimi to jump a little. Actually, the more she saw the fog and had things jumping out at her, the more she started to remember the night on the pier and the stranger.
She thought of his eerie words and trembled, causing Philip to become concerned.
"Meems, what's wrong?"
He looked at her for a second and then gestured with his hand.
"Come here."
He didn't wait for her though. He took his arm and gently wrapped it around her shoulder, letting his hand rest lightly against her forearm. Then he moved her a little so her head was against his shoulder.
Just as he did so, the wagon turned onto another dirt path that seemed much quieter and settled.
Mimi was glad there wasn't anything jumping out at then anymore. It was nice that this part of the ride was peaceful. She rested her head against Philip's shoulder, feeling him move the blanket around her more. Warmed by the blanket and his close proximity, she sighed contentedly.
Philip spoke softly.
"I don't think you cared too much about all those things and people jumping out at you, huh, but you're the one who chose this ride." He laughed very softly and then spoke in a whisper.
"You feel better now?"
"Mhmm."
"Good. You must be tired from cleaning out those locker rooms this afternoon and walking with Jan probably didn't help?"
"Yes to both parts. Philip?"
The ride continued, the wagon slowly moving down the dirt path.
"Yeah?"
"Are you tired too?"
"Kind of. The game made me feel a little drained, you know?"
He spoke softly, his head close to hers as he wearily rested it against the side of the wagon.
Around them, the sky was dark and the only sounds, other than people talking on the ride, were of the wagon rolling along the trail and the clip clopping sound of the horses.
Mimi answered him in a whisper.
"I thought so. I was so happy for you tonight."
"Thanks. But a lot of it's because of you."
"What do you mean?"
"You made me realize that I wasn't invincible, that if I wanted to play better I was going to have to work at it and not give up. You inspired me."
He spoke to her very softly, her head against his shoulder keeping him warm. Then slowly he looked down at her. Snuggled up in that blanket she looked so young and vulnerable. A tired smile came to his face.
"You did everything; you made it happen, not me."
Mimi quietly responded, feeling very comfortable right now and at ease. It felt good having his arm around her and his hand that was resting lightly against her forearm took away from the cold air.
Philip shook his head in response.
"No. You had a lot to do with it."
Mimi was too tired to argue. Besides, she wanted to know the answer to something else.
"Philip?"
"Hmmm?"
"How come you didn't stay at the dance?"
He thought back to how unhappy he had been at the dance and how he felt now. Sighing quietly, he answered her.
"Because I wasn't enjoying myself."
She wondered about his answer and how he turned somewhat quiet earlier when she talked to him on the phone. Something seemed to make him unhappy, but what she really wanted to know was how he felt at the present time.
"Are you enjoying yourself now?"
Philip thought about her question, feeling her hair tickling against his neck a little and smiled.
"Yes I am."
Mimi's face lit up a little at his answer.
The darkness of the night surrounded them as the wagon started to return to its starting point.
Both stopped talking, closing their eyes as they rested against each other. Warm and content in their friendly closeness.
Neither was aware of the shadowed figure watching them, especially watching her, smiling an eerie smile.
They simply enjoyed the company of each other and their friendship being renewed as it grew even stronger.
Unaware of any danger.