Never Imagined Possible

Chapter Four

Samantha, you don't mean that, Brandon stepped forward reaching out towards her as she pulled out of his touch, after what we just

Brandon, that wasn't supposed to happen, she answered firmly, what we just did was a mistake. It got too out of hand and it won't happen ever again.

Samantha, you can't deny how right we feel together, he challenged seeing the confusion behind her eyes, about how good things feel when we're in each other's arms.

Brandon, sex won't heal what's wrong with us, she blurted out with a sigh, I don't deny the fact that yes you still can turn me on in ways that no one else can, but sex isn't going to fix what's wrong nor will it change the way things are.

Samantha, I wasn't looking to have our making love be a solution for the way things are, Brandon began surprised at her words.

Sex Brandon, Sami shot back at him, that's all it would've been had the kitchen not called upon you. It wasn't anything about love or any real emotion. We have nothing between us and that's exactly what it would've been had anything gone any further.

Samantha, you don't mean that, his eyes spoke volumes about the weight of her words over him, I know that you don't

Don't what? Don't mean it when I tell you that you are nothing to me? she questioned harshly, well get it through your head Brandon Walker. I don't love you and I don't want to be with you. You lost any chance of being with me the day you walked out on our wedding. I'm over you.

You're full of it Samantha, Brandon insisted watching her eyes, you and I both know that what just happened between us was something more than just physical. Whether you like it or not we're connected and we'll always be connected on some spiritual level.

Oh please, she rolled her eyes fighting the intense pounding of her heart, Brandon, you were just a great pleasure ride, but when you left, I realized that real relationships take work and they need more than just a good connection in bed.

I can't believe I'm hearing this, he waved his hands in the air wildly, Samantha, listen to what you're saying. You're taking our relationship and turning it into something that it wasn't.

It wasn't anything and you proved that on the day you walked out on me, she hissed back at him, you hurt me Brandon and for that I won't ever be able to forgive you. You're nothing to me.

he began the hurt now obvious in his features as he lowered his arms to his side, I don't believe that and I won't believe that.

Brandon, you need to face the facts that I'd be on my honeymoon right now if you hadn't butted in, she reminded him, I moved on with my life without you and whatever possessed you to come back into it, well it was just some stupid impulse that you'll get over the moment I walk out that door.

No I won't get over it, he shook his head, Samantha, I'll never get over you. Not now, not ever and I know in my heart that you aren't over me either.

Yes, I am, she replied biting on her lip, I've been over you for a long time.

If that were true, then you wouldn't have said the things you'd said back at that church, Brandon sighed, you wouldn't have talked about missing me, about our wedding day

How did you she gasped in surprise.

Samantha, I heard you talking to Eric. Hell, I heard you talking to me when you thought it was your mother, Brandon stepped towards her, I know that you had your doubts when I took you from the church, he nodded towards the bracelet on her arm, that also speaks volumes about the way you feel about me.

she motioned towards the bracelet, was just too beautiful to let go of and besides I wear it as a reminder not to get involved with a jerk like you.

Samantha, don't lie, he pleaded with her, just be honest with yourself for once in your life. Don't hide from your heart.

My heart always leads me astray and it damn near killed me Brandon, she argued with him, I'm done with those days of impulsive romance and wondering if love will set me free. The truth to the matter is that love doesn't and won't set you free. It won't make your life what you want it to be and it certainly won't keep you warm on a cold winter's night. To hell with love and to hell with you, she pushed past him making her way up the winding staircase as the tears flooded her eyes bringing back all the painful memories of how it felt in losing him before.

Words, they don't mean nothing
So tell me why they hurt so much
I meant to tell you something
It was on the tip of my tongue

Brandon watched her retreat and his heart sank as she realized just how his actions had hurt her. He'd always hated how he left before, but now as she was lost in the pain he's caused her, her vowed to himself that one way or another he'd find a way to make it up to her. He had to. His future was riding on it.

Words rush by so quickly
And it's too late to take them back
I tried to say I'm sorry
And that goodbye was just an act

Samantha locked the door to the bedroom behind her refusing to let Brandon inside. She wouldn't let him penetrate the room or her heart as she collapsed on the bed overcome by tears. Damn him for ruining the best day of her life. Damn him for telling her that he believed they still were meant to be together and most of all damn her for wanting to believe him.

But all my words got in the way
And all the things I meant to say
Were not the things you heard
Oh, why'd you have to go
And take me at my word

Brandon opened the doorway leading to the deck in the back as the sun began to set off over the horizon. While he'd had such plans about this time alone with Samantha, he feared that there had been so much damage done already that perhaps he wouldn't be able to repair it all. How he'd hated the way he'd lashed out at her, the way he'd abandoned her, walked away from his heart and said all the wrong things when it had been her love that changed his life around. He'd wanted to give it all to her, his everything and now as he stood alone feeling the summer breeze sweeping over him, he thought back to all the things he should've said, should've done, but in one moment of confusion and anger, he destroyed one of the most beautiful emotions he'd ever experienced and now he wondered if there was still a way to find himself in Samantha's heart again.

Words come back to haunt you
Yeah, they just keep hanging around
I still can hear the echo
I still can hear their angry sound

To hell with love and to hell with you, Sami heard her words echo in her mind as the tears spilled down her cheeks. How she'd wanted to mean those things, how she'd wanted to hate him, but the truth was that she didn't. Even now as she was lost in her misery, she wanted nothing more than to run down the stairs and embrace Brandon--to tell him that he was the only man she'd ever wanted to give herself completely to--to let him know that she was still very much in love with him, but pride wouldn't allow her to take that step.

Sitting up after a long pause, Samantha looked around the room feeling the walls closing in around her as the weight of her emotions hung over her. Turning towards the windows, she could see the setting sun in the distance and she found herself instinctively drawn to it, as she opened the doors to the balcony and she stepped out into the evening wondering how her life had lead her so far astray.

But all my words got in the way
And all the things I meant to say
Were not the things you heard
Oh, why'd you have to go
And take me at my word

Brandon looked up at the sky, seeing the stars appearing as he said a silent prayer hoping that he'd find the strength to reveal his heart to Samantha completely. While he'd vowed no more deceptions or games with her, he'd slipped back into his shell not showing her that she was everything to him. Images of their wedding day swirled in his mind as he hated the way he'd left things. He wanted nothing more than to reclaim that moment in time, to step back into his position at the altar and commit his life to the one woman who'd ever meant anything to him.

Oh Samantha, he sighed looking to the moon overhead as his heart sank, how did things get so out of hand for us? How could I ever have convinced you that letting you go was what was best for us?

Words can say I love you
Oh, words can break a heart
I should have stopped you leaving
And told the truth right from the start

Samantha felt the tide bring in a breeze sweeping over her as her heart sank. She was lost in paradise with the man of her dreams, yet they were a world apart. While she'd wanted so desperately to bring order to her life, to become Lucas's wife and life a quiet life in Salem, there was nothing calm or ordered about the way she was feeling in this moment in time. Her heart was tying her emotions in knots as she found herself in more of a conundrum than she'd ever anticipated. Why did Brandon return now? Why hadn't she just stayed out of the ordeal with Lexie? Why hadn't she gone to him in the first place when Nicole had blackmailed her? Why weren't they able to find a way to make it against the odds and why oh why didn't she want to let go of him now that they were together again? So many memories came back to haunt her on this night when she was forced to face herself for the first time in a long time--if ever. Before it had been so easy, but now, well now everything was complicated--far more than she could ever do on her own.

Maybe they're all right, she reasoned to herself, maybe you are your own worst enemy, Sami, she sighed heavily as her gaze traveled down to the water, to the shadows that filled the night. She wondered what it would be like to have that inner peace she'd always craved in her life, that happiness that everyone else seemed to find, but more so she wondered what it would be like to have all those things with Brandon.

As if her heart was trying to be her guide, Samantha's eyes were drawn to the deck out back where Brandon stood beneath her, looking up to the same lonely moon that she had been lost in. He looked so handsome in the moonlight, so beautiful to her as she longed to reach out to him, to tell him how much she still needed and wanted him in her life even after all this time, but how could she? How could she open herself up to his love again when she knew where love took her? With Austin, she'd fought so hard to win him over, to manipulate him at every twist and turn, but with Brandon she'd wanted him to love her for who she was. He was the one who would be there for her in spite of what she was, yet when the going got rough, he'd abandoned her too. He'd left without a trace and she'd moved forward in her life. She'd lost all hope of ever finding happiness again after he'd walked out on her and now she found it hard to believe she could even embrace the idea of love again.

As though Brandon could hear her internalizing, Samantha noticed he lifted his head turning his eyes towards hers and for one brief moment in time their eyes locked. Her pulse quickened as she saw the same feelings of sorrow and uncertainty sweeping over him. Could he be feeling it too? Could he be lost in the sea of regret that had haunted her for most of her adult life? Had he too truly regretted all the ways in which they'd fallen apart? Could his love be the one to bring her out of the darkness and back to life again? How she'd sought after the truths hidden beneath those dark eyes of his, but the more she looked at him, the harder she fell and in falling, she was weak. Weak was one thing that Samantha Brady would never allow herself to be, even if her heart tried to lead her astray.

A breeze swept over Samantha once again causing her to turn away from the night, to step out of the darkness into the safety of the bedroom as she refused to let Brandon see through her. She couldn't let him see how deeply being this close to him again had effected her. Closing the doors behind her, she shut out the night as Brandon watched her retreat.

I love you Samantha, Brandon whispered poignantly watching her fade away into the house once again as he vowed to find a way to fix the damage he'd done in walking away. He had to find a way to reach out to her. Too much was riding on their future for him to let go.


But all my words got in the way
And all the things I meant to say
Were not the things you heard
Oh, why'd you have to go
And take me at my word

Lyrics used Sherrié Austin's Words (Note, I was listening to this song the other day and it so fits Brami. If you haven't heard it, you should listen to it because it really does fit their current situation)


Chapter Five

Samantha opened her eyes stretching out over the plush comforter as the morning's rays flooded through the bedroom. Letting out a tiny yawn, she rolled over on the bed forgetting for a moment that she'd cried herself to sleep in this place that she'd been taken too. Suddenly as the previous night came back to her, her eyes opened wider and she sat upright wondering how she'd managed to let her emotions get the best of her.

Looking around the room, Samantha decided that she wouldn't let this go on any longer as she made her way towards the adjoining bathroom. She would get cleaned up and then demand that Brandon take her home immediately. Yes, that was what she would do indeed, she decided as she heard a knock on the door causing her to stop in her tracks. The tapping continued for a moment, before she reluctantly turned towards the source of the sound.

Opening the door, Samantha scowled as she prepared to tear into Brandon for his keeping her at this place. However, much to her dismay, she realized Brandon wasn't on the other side of the door. Instead she found a single red rose laying upon a silver tray beside what appeared to be breakfast. Stepping out into the hallway, she looked around for any trace of Brandon before she scooped up the tray before her. Locking the door behind her, she crossed the room returning to the bed as she took a seat.

Oh Brandon, she sighed reaching for the rose and inhaling it's sweet scent as she tried to find the strength to still be furious with him. Closing her eyes as the intoxicating scent of the flower seduced her senses, she thought of the sentiment behind the gesture and how she'd dreamt about him the previous night after her tears had died down. Wishing that she could get some kind of clarity in the situation, she turned her attention to the tray again as she reached for the muffin upon it.

Smiling as she lifted the tasty treat to her lips, Samantha took a bite realizing that she was in fact quite hungry after her time away from the world. Last night when she'd refused dinner with Brandon, she'd been too angry to care about her aching stomach, but now, well now she was well aware that the not eating had taken it's toll on her. She eyed the rest of her breakfast eagerly as she remembered how good Brandon's cooking had been in the past. Reaching out for one of the pieces of bacon, she noticed the tiny white piece of paper on the tray.

What in the she questioned as she lifted the paper from the tray and she unfolded it carefully reading aloud, Dearest Samantha. I know that last night things didn't turn out like I'd hoped for between us. Yes, I'm sure that you have a lot of questions about why I brought you here, about how I could walk back into your life after all this time and just expect you to take me back and the truth is that I don't have any answers that would be good enough for you. You deserve more than what mere words could offer you and that's why I've decided that perhaps we could start over again. Now before you toss this note into the trash, just hear me out. I know you were going to marry Lucas and I know that you planned to have a future with him, but if you give me a chance to show you who I am--really prove to you what it is that's in my heart, then I promise you that you'll see that we are meant to be together. Samantha, before we did things the wrong way, but I'd like another chance to make things right, to give our relationship a chance to evolve into something it was always meant to be. I realize that I'm the last person who should be asking you for second chances considering all that's happened between us, but if you could find it in your heart to face me again, to come to me without all the walls between us and if you give this a chance, then I guarantee you won't regret it. I'm ready to be honest with my heart and all I ask is that you do the same. Spend the day with me and see if you're really ready to give up on our being together. If after one day you still feel that I have no place in your heart, then you'll be free to leave, but after one day should you find that there is a hint of feeling inside you for me, a shred of emotion between us, then all I ask is that you give it a chance, give us a chance to see where it could take us. As I said before, this is in your hands Samantha. I won't push you, but if you should find it in your heart to allow me this day with you, I promise you that you'll see all the things I was too afraid to show you before. You have my word on that. Love, Brandon.

Setting the page down, Samantha expelled a breath that collected in her throat as she thought of his words. Would it be worth the risk? Would one day be something she could go forward with Brandon and if she didn't agree to it what then? Could she go back home without giving him a chance and return to her life with Lucas never knowing what might've been? Then again could she find something with Brandon that could turn her world upside down all over again? As all the questions raced through her mind, she realized that either way after she left this room, her life was about to change. In some ways it already had.


Brandon finished cleaning the dishes from the previous evening's failed attempt at dinner when he heard the footsteps from behind him. Wiping his hands dry on a towel, he turned to find Samantha standing in the doorway looking beautiful as ever as she watched him closely. Leaning against the doorframe, her angelic face was shadowed with lines of confusion and a mask of skepticism as he set his towel down.

Thank you for breakfast, she broke the silence keeping her gaze lingering upon him.

It was my pleasure, Brandon spoke softly, I thought you might be hungry after last night

I was, she nodded eagerly, and I appreciate your doing that for me.

I would've done more, but

No, it was perfect, she offered a light smile, I loved it.

I'm glad, he responded as a long silence filled the air surrounding them.

I was going to bring the tray down here, but

I'll get it later, Brandon replied seeing the uneasiness behind her eyes as she turned away.

Really I can go get it right now, she started as he stepped forward reaching out to her.

he spoke her name causing her to cease movement as the touch of his fingers over the bare skin of her arm awakened a great many sensations throughout her body.

she raised her eyes up towards his seeing the question behind them.

Did you read my letter, he asked gently as his breath carried over her.

I did, she nodded.



she bit her lower lip momentarily before expelling a soft sigh, just one day.

One day, he repeated with a nod, that's all I ask.

And if I refuse? she challenged arching a curious brow.

Is that really what you want to do? he countered as her silence hung over him for a long moment before she shook her head.

she answered lightly, I'm not going to refuse, but it's just one day.

One day it is then, Brandon agreed feeling a new hope racing through him as the faintest flicker of promise sparked behind her eyes.

Brandon, don't get any ideas about this, she warned simply, I'm only doing this because it's my way of letting you see how things truly are.

I wouldn't have it any other way, he nodded eagerly, I want you to see the truth and nothing but the truth

Why does it sound like I've just committed myself to a life sentence here, she questioned with a nervous laugh.

No life sentences required, Brandon offered gently, unless of course you're willing to volunteer to it.

Brandon, it's just one day, she reminded him firmly, that's all I'm giving you.

Then I shall make the most of it, Brandon decided hanging on to the idea of winning her over, for the next twenty four hours you're all mine.

I said one day, not twenty four hours, her lip curled into a frown.

One full day is twenty four hours Samantha, Brandon reminded her with a playful wink, and the time begins once our adventure does, so perhaps you should go pack a few things for a day on the beach because you're going to need them.

Brandon, what do you have in mind? she eyed him curiously.

I have a swimsuit, some sun block and a few essentials in the Jeep, but if there's anything else you'd like to bring with you Brandon offered.

Speaking of things, Samantha frowned slightly, how is it that you've managed to get your hands on my clothes like you have? I'd assume they are mine, yes?

Brandon nodded in response, They are, but wouldn't you rather talk about this later considering that we have a full day ahead of us?

What happened to only truths? she challenged.

Samantha, as much as I'd like to dive into truths between us, your wardrobe isn't really the top of my mind right now, Brandon paused seeing the burning intensity behind her eyes as he added, I had some help in getting some of your things, but for now that's all I'm saying. If you want to know more, well then meet me in the Jeep in five minutes and perhaps we can talk about it on our way to our adventure.

You aren't going to just offer me any information without my asking for it, now are you? she gave him a pointed look.

Where would be the fun in that, Brandon winked back at her, besides for the next twenty four hours I'm going to show you a world that you've never known Samantha. We won't have time to worry about the trivial stuff.

So you keep saying, she provided him one last look before turning towards the stairs to collect a few things for her day of adventure with Brandon Walker. Somehow she had a feeling these next twenty four hours were going to change everything.

Chapter Six

Samantha made her way out of the beach house, a small tote bag draped over her shoulder as she'd opted to change into something a bit more comfortable on her day with Brandon. Now wearing a pair of relaxed jeans and a white tank top with her long blonde hair tied loosely back into a pony tale, she was ready to face the world of adventure that Brandon had set out before them. Stepping out onto the front porch, she realized this was the first time she'd actually taken a look around anything other than the kitchen, the bedroom and the room she and Brandon had almost made love in. As her eyes surveyed the grand home before her, she noticed the classical architecture and style of the house as she realized that she most certainly wasn't in Salem anymore.

Ready Samantha? Brandon's voice beckoned her from the drive as she turned around to find him leaning up against the side of his Jeep Grand Cherokee, his arms folded over the chest of his very nice form fitting black shirt that hugged all the lines of his body inviting her eyes to take a closer inspection as he tilted his head in her direction. While his eyes were covered by the dark sunglasses he was wearing, there was no mistaking that remarkable smile or the way his lips curled in such a fashion that they set her heart aflutter without a word. She took in a breath, feigning a casual stride as she approached the Jeep.

Nice wheels, she commented walking around towards the passenger side as Brandon hurried ahead of her opening the door for her.

Only the best for our adventure, Brandon smiled in response as he helped her into the Jeep, closing the door once she'd settled in. As he walked around the Jeep, Samantha noticed the bounce in his walk as she was starting to anticipate their day together.

So just where are you taking me, she questioned curiously as he slid in beside the wheel and buckled himself in.

That's part of the adventure, Brandon playfully winked at her, keeping it a surprise will make it all the more exciting.

You know how I feel about surprises, she began.

You love them, Brandon offered with a tiny laugh, I didn't forget that Samantha.

Only if they're good surprises, she pointed out.

Only the best, Brandon promised starting the car as they left the house heading out for their first adventure.

Samantha shifted on the seat trying to find some comfort in the silence between her and Brandon as they drove along the empty winding road. She turned her attention to the view of the ocean, watching it's tide rolling forward. This place was so beautiful and far from where she'd imagined herself being right about now as she turned her attention back to Brandon.

So are you going to share with me what exactly you think is going to happen today or what you believe you're going to accomplish by having me here like this?

Well for starters, I'd hope that we could carry on a civilized conversation without yelling like we did last night, Brandon confessed giving her a quick look, and so far, so good.

That's because you're not saying much of anything, she cut back sharply.

Ah, but let's face it, we really don't want to fight, Brandon decided turning off the road they were on.

Maybe, maybe not. I guess it all depends on what stupid thing comes out of your mouth next, Samantha frowned slightly, so go for it. Tell me what you're really thinking about.

What I'm thinking about? he arched a teasing brow, why it's quite simple Samantha. I'm thinking about you.

she laughed haughtily, if you were truly thinking about me, you wouldn't have taken me off on this little caper of yours nor would you have made it seem like I've abandoned my son and my future husband.

Brandon frowned as he pulled the car over on the side of the road, I thought we were going to spend the next twenty four hours on this adventure before us and not thinking about whats back in Salem. No more dwelling on the past.

I never agreed to that, she argued with him, and now that I've just disappeared Lucas will think that I am in fact an unfit mother and he will take Will away from me.

Will knows that you're safe, Brandon sighed after a long pause, he knows that you didn't abandon him.

And just how would he know that? she questioned with a slight frown.

Because Samantha, I made sure that your son was well aware of the fact that you were in good hands, Brandon confessed, I wouldn't dare leave him to think that you just up and left him. I care too much about him, to just let him believe you'd abandoned him.

Oh right like kidnapping me leaves him any room to be anything but concerned about me, she glared at him, then again you didn't seem to think about what it would do for him when you walked out on me on our wedding day, now did you?

Samantha, look I didn't mean to hurt you or Will, Brandon hesitated, and I realize that in my leaving it upset him. I never, ever wanted him to get burned by this

And just how do you think he's going to feel knowing that you took me away on my wedding day when I was going to be marrying his father and making us a family at long last? she challenged, I'll bet that thought never crossed your mind, now did it?

Actually, it did cross my mind Samantha and time and time again I wondered if I should do this, wondered if I should try to reach out to you again and then it hit me, Brandon explained simply, Will knows that you and Lucas aren't in love. He's known that for a long time and having come from a family where two people stayed together just for the sake of the children when they weren't even remotely in love, I can tell you just how much that will destroy a kid, especially a good one like Will.

Brandon, don't you dare tell me just how my son feels considering that you haven't been around to see him. You don't know what's been going on in his life and you certainly can't tell me what it is that he feels about my marrying Lucas, Sami shot back at him, just because your mother wasn't strong enough to stay true to her marriage vows and commit herself to the man she was with, doesn't mean I'm like her. Lucas isn't a child abuser who knocks his kids around just because his mother can't stay faithful?

That wasn't what you were saying a while ago, now was it? he pointed out giving her a knowing look, I mean isn't that what got us into this mess to begin with?

You're changing the subject, she huffed back at him, this is about your mother and your screwed up childhood and you know it. You haven't taken a moment to think about my son.

That's not fair, Brandon argued with her, and you know it.

Neither is pushing your feelings about your parents marriage off on my son, Samantha argued with him.

Samantha, Will is part of the reason I'm back again, Brandon blurted out shaking his head after a long moment, look he didn't want me to be telling you this, but after I left, I hated the idea of hurting him. I hated the idea of hurting you, but I didn't have enough courage to find my way back to you. Once I'd seen how wrong I was, Nikki told me about you and Lucas so I stayed away. I tried to pretend that loving you and losing you didn't matter, but I was wrong. I wanted to believe that you'd found happiness in your life, but then when I took a look

You've been watching me? her eyes widened in surprise, How long have you been watching me?

Long enough to see your completely miserable and Will sees it too, Brandon blurted out in frustration, that's exactly what he's been saying all along

Wait a second, she placed her palm out as if to keep a distance between them, are you saying you've spoken with my son?

Brandon nodded, He didn't want me to tell you that we were still talking to one another, but yes I've kept the lines of communication open with Will. He's too good of a kid for me to have just abandoned him.

But you'd abandon me? her eyes narrowed with anger, Brandon, of all the spiteful, evil, hurtful

he reached out to her drawing her into his arms, listen to me. I know I made a mistake, and I've paid for it. Hell, I'm sure I deserve to pay for it long after this day passes us by, but right now, In this time--this moment, it's about us and about the way we feel for one another. That's all that matters and I refuse to walk away from you without a fight. I made that mistake once before and I WONT make it again!

What if you don't have a choice anymore? she questioned after a long moment passed between them.

Life is full of choices, Brandon replied watching her blue eyes dark and intense with a mixture of emotions, some good and some bad. While we both have a history of making bad choices that have caused us pain in our lives, maybe if we take this chance, this risk together we'll see that this time we can make up for the past. We can find a way to move beyond the mistakes we've made and maybe just maybe we can start over again.

Brandon, so much has happened, she offered faintly.

There's still time, Brandon encouraged her, and I have over twenty three hours left to prove it to you and speaking of which, he pulled away from her turning the car on once again as he continued down the gravel pathway that lay before him, we do have an agenda here.

So I'm seeing, she replied watching him closely as she wondered if they'd ever be able to come to any kind of terms about the state of things between them.


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And we're here, Brandon announced pulling the car to a stop as Samantha looked to the emptiness ahead of her and a frown crossed over her lips.

Brandon, where exactly is here? she questioned giving him a curious look as he offered a cryptic smile before opening the passenger side door and extending his arm out to her.

This is phase one of our adventure, Brandon explained simply, there's something I'd like you to see.

Um, okay, she eyes him curiously before looking to his hand as he offered it to her.

Just trust me, his eyes pleaded with her as she reluctantly accepted his hand and allowed him to help her out of the Jeep.

That's asking quite a lot, now isn't it? she muttered as he pulled her out of the Jeep straight into his arms. Her breath caught in her throat as she collided against him tumbling forward into his arms.

I think it's worth the risk, Brandon leaned in closer to her his lips a breath away from hers as she lifted her chin wanting to bridge the distance between them before he drew back leading her down the trail before them

Samantha's eyes traveled over the lavish vegetation as she noticed this place had a serene quality to it, which appeared to be a great contrast to the ocean front property he'd had her at earlier. Trying to still the furious pounding of her heart, her gaze lingered to Brandon's fingers still laced with hers as the familiarity of the touch brought a smile to her face. Somehow the beauty of their surroundings took a back seat to the sensations lingering over her fingers as his index finger casually brushed against the center of her palm.

We're here, Brandon announced interrupting her thoughts as she swiftly withdrew her hand causing him to frown, is something wrong?

Of course not, she shook her head, but I am a grown up after all and I don't need you to hold my hand like I'm a child.

Of course you don't, Brandon mused with a lighthearted smile, you're an incredible, beautiful woman which is why I wanted to share this with you.

What is this exactly, she looked beyond Brandon seeing what at first glance seemed to be a pile of old, worn down stones up ahead of her, a pile of rocks?

Not just any pile of rocks, he stepped forward glancing over his shoulder and curling his finger at her to follow, it's a well. A wishing well.

Brandon, you don't honestly expect me to believe in wishing wells, she gave him a pointed look.

I'm not asking you to believe in anything, but can't you just feel the magic of this place, Brandon questioned motioning to the colorful array of flowers surrounding them, this place is filled with enchantment.

Okay, I'll admit the flowers are beautiful and this place does have a certain serenity to it, but magic, well that's a bit of a leap, Sami offered skeptic of the idea of real magic being alive around her.

Well then if you're willing to listen, maybe I can convince you it's not that great of a leap, Brandon urged as he circled around closer to the well. Setting down the blanket he'd carried with him from the Jeep, he glanced over towards her, I thought maybe we could use a nice picnic and maybe enjoy a bit of the scenery. You know away from the rest of the world, Brandon explained stretching out over the blanket as he patted an empty spot beside him, what do you say?

she stepped forward, okay, I suppose I picnic would be nice.

Brandon watched her take a seat beside him as the obvious tension still lined her shoulders, of course I had planned to tell you about the legend behind this place, but if it really isn't of interest to you

No go ahead, she interrupted eagerly before her tone shifted once again, that is if you really want to. I mean it beats fighting.

That it does, he smiled at her enjoying her attempts at being casual as he motioned over towards the well once again, legend has it that anyone who makes a wish at this well will find their greatest desires come to life. It's said that once upon a time two young lovers found their way to this very spot long ago.

Oh really? Sami arched a curious brow, and what is said to have happened to them in this place? Did they have happily ever after?

Well, that's where the story begins to get interesting, Brandon continued noting her interest, you see the woman was by far the most beautiful woman alive and she clearly could've had any man she'd wanted, but alas the poor gal doubted herself. She was a princess you see and as legend has it with princesses they are blessed with the great beauty of this world

I see, Sami nodded in response, so this is a story about a princess and her prince?

Not exactly, Brandon shook his head, you see this princess was always comparing herself to her older, somewhat wiser sister and in feeling that the light was always shining in on her sister, she felt that she had nothing to offer to the world, so she ran from those who might've noticed her.

Gee, that sounds promising, Sami rolled her eyes, so she lived in her sister's shadow her entire life?

Something along those lines, Brandon leaned up on his arm, however, what the beautiful princess failed to see was that while her older sister did have great beauty and wisdom, it paled in comparison to that of the younger princess. You see the princess had always been known to take risks, to do whatever it took to find what she wanted from life and while it had been known to blow up in her face and give her a less than angelic reputation, it still was part of the princess--the very part that made her so alluring and appealing to a peasant boy who'd been working at the stables at the castle.

A peasant boy? Sami repeated repositioning herself on the blanket, do tell?

From the first time he'd been out at the stables, when he'd first laid his eyes upon her, he knew in his heart that she was by far the most beautiful creature he'd ever laid eyes upon. While others boasted about the other princess and her great virtues, this peasant boy found that the other, younger and far more beautiful princess had so much more to offer. She wasn't afraid to live life or to take risks and embrace her wild ways in the hopes of finding happiness. That alone made her far more appealing and more amazing than any other woman he'd ever laid eyes upon, he paused seeing the amused smile that touched over her lips, however there were a great many drawbacks for this ill fated relationship.



Unfortunately yes, Brandon nodded, you see when the peasant boy gathered up the courage to tell the princess just how much she'd moved him, the princess had begun a relationship with one of her sister's previous suitors and despite the ways in which the peasant boy would try to capture her attention, she only had eyes for the prince that was beside her. Time and time again the peasant boy would watch in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to arrive when he could make his way into the heart of the beautiful princess. It seemed as though he was destined to live his life alone without the woman he'd secretly longed for, but alas fate had other plans for them. It seemed that while the princess appeared to be contented with her new prince companion, she was still restless, longing for the excitement and adventure she once embraced. One night, she happened to make her way down to the stables as recklessness set in. She made her way into the stables, to ride a stallion that had been forbidden for her to ride. It had been the one great risk she'd longed to take in her life and as she prepared the magnificent beast for riding, she found herself free at long last. She no longer had to live by the standards which everyone had thrust upon her. With that horse she could life vicariously and be liberated at long last and as she rode that night, the wind whipping through her hair, the power of the horse setting her free at long last, it brought a change in her--one that she never dreamt possible and that night when she'd returned the horse to the stables again, she hated to leave that freedom behind and in her heart she wondered how she could ever go back to the way things once were. It was then that the stable boy made his move. You see hed watched her that night as shed been on the stallion. Hed kept his eyes closely on her and was in awe of how shed embraced her wild side at long last. Seeing her so carefree offered him hope that perhaps she would see that he had been moved by all that she was.

Hence the beginning of their romance? Samantha questioned curiously.

Not exactly, Brandon let out a hearty laugh, when she realized he'd been watching her, her first reaction was to deck him, but then after that night in the stables something changed. She would return to her day at the castle, to the life she was supposed to lead, but at night she would return to the stable boy, to the horse and together they would go off riding. Each night they would experience the freedom together and along the way the peasant boy found the courage to reveal to her what was in his heart.

And what did she say to him? she leaned in closer to him.

She was surprised, Brandon reached out lazily to tuck a strand of her blonde hair behind her ear, and a little reluctant, he swept his thumb over her cheekbone smoothly, but our loyal peasant boy refused to give up. He would hold on until the moment in time when his princess would see that she too had fallen in love with him. Days went by, months even and the princess was left broken hearted when her prince had left her all alone choosing to move on to greener pastures. After that the peasant boy promised that he would never allow the princess to be lonely or in pain again. He made his move and this time rather than receiving her reluctance, she welcomed him with open arms and finally admitted her love. She too had been falling deeper in love with this peasant boy and by now despite her protests, he had captured her heart completely. The two vowed to never turn away from love after that night they'd finally revealed their hearts to one another and it was on that evening that they made their way over to that wishing well, pledging their eternal love to one another, with this gold coin, Brandon withdrew a coin from his pocket, it was given to the peasant boy by a local oracle who vowed should two young lovers make a wish at this well with one another, their love and happiness would always remain joining their souls together for always.

And that's what happened? Samantha questioned as her gaze traveled over to the coin in Brandon's hands, they tossed the coin into the well and they were able to be lost in love forever?

Unfortunately, no, Brandon shook his head with a sigh, the two young lovers were forbidden to be together and her father, the king pushed him away because no peasant was to marry his daughter, the princess. However, the night that the peasant boy was to be sent away, he and the princess made their way down here one last time vowing that they would find a way to keep their love alive, that in their being soul mates nothing would ever tear them apart--not even her father, Brandon paused seeing the anticipatory questions behind her eyes.

So what happened to them, she urged reaching out to tug on his arm, Brandon, come on. Tell me.

That night they returned to the well, it is said that they made one last wish to be together again and the gods looked down upon them granting them that very wish, Brandon motioned towards the ocean ahead as he pointed towards the island in the middle of the water, it's said that night they were transformed into those trees over there, ever intertwined in one another together forever.

The trees, Sami's gaze swept over two tangled limbs out in the center of the ocean away from all else, but how? You dont really believe that they were turned into those trees, do you?

It's not to question how or why, Brandon confessed looking to her once again as he brushed his finger tips over her cheek gently, just to know that true love will find a way and nothing, not even forces of nature can tear it apart, he whispered as she turned her eyes towards his, when love is written in the stars, nothing else matters.

she leaned in closer to him feeling his breath over hers as she closed her eyes savoring the chaste touch of his lips over hers as he cupped her face in his hands. A soft sigh spilled over her lips as he slowly withdrew from the kiss dropping the gold coin in the palm of her hand.

This is for you, Brandon whispered still holding her close to him, when you make a wish Samantha, I want it to be a good one. A wish that will bring you happiness and everything you've ever desired.

Brandon, I she found herself at a loss as he squeezed her hand once more.

I'm going to get the picnic basket, Brandon explained giving her a quick kiss before getting up off of the blanket, but if you'd like to give the wishing well a try, he motioned towards the well, then I'll give you a moment.

Brandon, I she shook her head, okay, fine.

I'll be right back, he waved at her before heading back towards the Jeep.

Samantha's gaze lingered over to the wishing well and then down to the coin in her hand as she wondered if perhaps wishes and dreams could come true for her. Hearing Brandon step away, she thought of his tale, of the way her life had gone and if perhaps this could be a new beginning for her. Gently running her thumb over the coin one last time, she stepped forward looking down into the well wondering if there was any truth to Brandon's story as she dropped the coin into the well hoping that perhaps her dreams and wishes of happily ever after could finally come true.

Chapter Seven

Brandon carried the picnic basket back with him from the Jeep as he thought of the story he'd told Samantha. The way her eyes lit up with curiosity, the wonderful feelings that came along with kissing her--how he'd wanted that to remain for always between them, but alas he had only twenty four hours to prove to her how they were meant to be together. He couldn't waste a moment of it now that he'd come so close to having heaven with her once again. As he approached the picnic area, he noticed she sat on the edge of the well, lazily tracing the stones with her index finger. A smile touched over his features as he thought of how beautiful she was. Something about the way the morning blossomed over her and truly captured her beauty made his heart flutter. As if feeling his eyes upon her, Samantha turned her eyes towards Brandon, a smile touching over her lips as she waved at him.

I was wondering when you'd return, she replied gently, her mind a bit more at ease than it had been earlier as Brandon leaned over setting the picnic basket down before he reached out to one of the bright, blossoming rose bushes and he plucked a deep, crimson bud lifting it out towards Samantha.

For you milady, he smiled offering her the rose as he leaned forward in a bow.

Why thank you, my handsome prince, she couldn't help but feel the mood sweep over her as she accepted the flower, it's beautiful.

Not nearly as beautiful as you are, my fair princess, he extended his hand out to her once again, shall we dine?

I suppose we shall, she accepted his hand as he lead her back over to the blanket helping her take a seat. She looked up at him, a genuine smile rising over her features as he circled around to take a seat beside her.

Now this is what I've longed to see, Brandon confessed reaching out towards her.

What's that? she questioned curiously.

Your smile, Brandon admitted with a magnificent smile of his own before he turned his attention to the picnic basket, now for lunch

Brandon wait, Sami reached out to him capturing his hand.

he looked up at her.

Did you really mean what you said before? she began inquisitively.

About the legend? he arched a curious brow.

No, not about the legend, she shook her head as her ponytail swung with each movement she made, about you believing that nothing else matters when love is written in the stars?

he nodded in response, nothing can stand in the way of true love, not even mistakes.

Even when the mistakes are so hurtful that they leave both people in so much pain, she questioned again.

Especially when the mistake hurt, he shifted to his knees as he reached out to her. Caressing the soft skin of her shoulder, he lifted his free hand to her face collecting her smooth cheek with the palm of his hand, if there was no love, then the mistakes would never hurt as deeply as they have. Without love, there would be no feeling good or bad.

Still, after all this time, she began doubtful.

Time never changes what's inside here Samantha, he reached for her hand placing it over the center of his chest over his heart, this heart beats full of love for you with every breath I take. Every waking minute of the day, it's you that completes me--you that gives me reason in this world.

Brandon, I'm just so she began as he leaned forward kissing her gently.

he whispered against her mouth, you don't have to say anything just yet. In fact, it's best that you don't. Not until you're absolutely sure about what it is you're feeling, he reluctantly eased away from her, let's just enjoy the morning together.

she nodded wondering if perhaps this was a new beginning for them as he turned his attention to the picnic basket.

I hope you like strawberries, Brandon announced withdrawing a container of the red ripe fruit.

You know I do, she smiled back at him, When Eric and I were kids, I used to eat them by the dozens. Of course back then he and I would drench them in, her eyes widened as Brandon pulled out another container, whipped cream!

You didn't think I didn't pay attention, now did you Samantha? he replied seeing the way her eyes lit up with excitement.

I just, she watched him open the container of strawberries before reaching over to open the whipped cream. Eagerly she reached for a berry plucking it away from the others before dipping it in the whipped cream. Raising it to her lips, she took a hearty bite before letting out a soft moan,

That it is, Brandon reclined back onto the blanket, I've always enjoyed watching you eat those. You have this look on your face when you've gotten pleasure from something

Do I? she inquired surprised by his choice of words as she finished off her berry.

You do, he nodded, and I find it very alluring.

Yes, well when you try one of these for yourself, you'll see that, well, here have one, she held a berry out towards him, it's really good.

I have no doubt about that, he leaned forward accepting the bite as his tongue swept over her finger tip before he offered a playful kiss upon it, very good indeed.

Samantha's breath collected in her throat as she watched him taste the strawberry she'd offered him. Noticing a thin line of juice had collected in the corner of his mouth, she captured it with her finger before involuntarily dipping her finger between her lips tasting the juice. Seeing the way Brandon's eyes fell upon her, her pulse quickened, her heart raced as he reached for another berry plummeting it into the thick whipped cream.

Have some more, he urged moving in closer to her, allowing the sweet treat to caress her lips, leaving it's sweet flavor upon her lower lip before she eagerly accepted the bite.

Saying nothing, Samantha reached for a berry, returning the favor as she offered it to Brandon, watching his reaction to her as she fed him. Something about his eyes, about the intimate gesture between them fueled a fire between them as she finished off her berry. Watching him take the last bite of the strawberry she'd held out to him, she reached for the bowl of strawberries, bringing it into her lap as Brandon reached for another berry. She swatted at his hand playfully, shaking her head in refusal as she pressed her palm into the center of his chest pushing him back fully onto the blanket. With a wicked smile playing over her lips, she collected the whipped cream as well holding it nearer to her as she scooted in closer to Brandon.

If you'd like some more, she teased gently, you'll have to ask for it.

I see, Brandon's lips curled in a smile, Samantha, may I please have another strawberry?

Hmm, let me think about this one, she pretended to think it over, um, nope, not yet. I'm afraid you'll have to do better than that, she reached for a berry sinking it into her mouth as he let out a tiny chuckle.

Samantha, may I please have a berry, he asked again, pretty please?

You're getting a little better, she set the bowls down again as she watched his fingers fan out across the blanket towards the strawberries. Swatting at his hand lightly, she reached for it, holding it against her face as she leaned in over him, I told you before you have to ask nicely.

How's this for nice, Brandon questioned threading his fingers through her hair as he pulled her down in a heated kiss catching her off guard.

Samantha felt the heat of his kiss, tasting the strawberry juice remaining over his lips as their kiss deepened. She placed her palm into the center of his chest, stopping the kiss abruptly as her eyes fixed upon him and she spoke again in a mocking tone.

You'll have to do better than that, she crawled into his lap, hovering over him as a rush over power flooded through her. Now with Brandon laying beneath her, she was calling the shots and somehow in feeling his lack of resistance, she was at ease with herself in this moment. She settled in over him noting the curiosity burning behind his eyes as she reached out to capture another plump, ripe berry between her fingers.

Now, let's try this again, she began smothering the berry in whipped cream before lifting it to his lips. He parted his lips anticipating a taste as the berry hovered over him, but as he leaned forward, she pulled the strawberry just out of his reach.

Uh uh, she shook her head playfully as she took a bite of the berry, it's mine, she mumbled as she began to finish off the berry.

Brandon demanded tugging her down against him as his mouth moved in upon hers claiming the berry from between her lips.

The strawberry soon became secondary to the kiss as Brandon captured her mouth with hungry urgency. Her fingers threaded into his hair holding him tightly against her as his fingers lazily tapered off over her thighs enjoying the feel of her body wrapped around him. Sliding his hands up over her waist he squeezed her as their kiss continued and he found himself absorbing her essence into his very cells with each heated flick of her tongue against his coaxing him into sweet surrender.

Brandon murmured as his gaze lazily traveled back up to her eyes once again.

That was very nice, she smiled down at him as his fingers collected her pony tail tie removing it with one quick tug and her hair cascaded over her shoulders tickling his face as her eyes sparkled with something that Brandon almost thought was happiness.

I want more, she whispered dragging another berry over his mouth before leaning down to lick a hot, wet line over his lower lip.

he breathed her name feeling her hands over his body, fanning out over the hardened contours of his muscled chest robbing him of any protest as things had taken an unexpected turn between them.

Help me take your shirt off Brandon, she urged further as her fingers curled under the bottom of his t-shirt dragging it up his body, I want to touch you.

Samantha, I want you too, he confessed lifting his arms over his head as she eagerly tore his shirt over his head,

she whispered against his mouth as he sat up collecting her in his arms. Her fingers fanned out over the muscular planes of his body as her trembling, swollen lips beckoned him into another kiss.

Samantha's urgent kisses were all the motivation Brandon needed to take her into his arms, offering her a hint of the desire he'd had locked away for her for so very long. Her hands traced over the hard smoothness and the strength of the muscled thighs before he scooped her up in his arms turning her onto her back on the blanket. Now hovering over her, he could see his own desire reflected in her eyes as he whispered words of love.

I love you Samantha, he whispered wanting nothing more than to share with her the depth of his emotions for her.

Brandon, I she met his eyes hearing the love filling his impassioned voice as she curled her leg around him holding him closer to her, I've missed you, she breathed collecting his mouth once again as she drank up kiss after sensual kiss allowing the moment to take them both away when a sudden piercing sound interrupted the two of them and she felt Brandon's hold on her constrict.

Well what the a man's voice growled as Samantha buried her head in Brandon's chest as he started to pull away.

Brandon, don't leave me, she whispered taking a quick peek out from beneath him as she saw a man in a park ranger's uniform with a rifle in hand standing no more than five feet away from them.

Don't you kids know this isn't a good area for that kind of stuff, the man shook his head with a deep frown, there have been four animal attacks out here in the last week and we still haven't caught the beast that did all the damage, he continued with obvious disapproval in his voice, and you'd think that you'd have enough sense not to be playing kissy-face in the woods here.

We were just having a picnic, Brandon answered smoothly as he untangled himself from Samantha's arms. Sliding in front of her as it to protect her from the man's scrutinizing eyes he continued, we weren't aware of any animal attacks, but if they are as serious as you say the are, then we'll just be on our way.

See that you do, The man scowled shaking his head once more before leaving the two of them alone again.

Samantha groaned burying her head in Brandon's shoulder, why is it that something keeps coming up like that?

Samantha, it's okay, he wrapped her arms around his body squeezing her against him as she leaned into his muscled spine, in fact, things got a little too hot this morning, he turned in her arms facing her once again, I would hate to miss any of the other things we have ahead of us for today.

What could possibly be any more important than us getting closer like this, she motioned to the discarded berries.

You'll see, Brandon turned fully claiming her lips in a quick kiss before offering a playful wink as he reached for his shirt, and trust me, you'll love it, he finished thinking of his plans for Samantha as he vowed not to get too side tracked too soon yet again. He wanted to show her a day she'd never forget and while this morning did have a very positive beginning, there was still so much more on the road to happiness between them and he intended to see it through completely.

To Chapter Eight