TUESDAY (1:30pm) - HC Emporium
"Excuse me, Gwen can I have a slice of apple pie and a glass of milk?" I asked my friend who waitressed there as she walked by.
"Sure Toni. I'll be right back" she said then walked away.
A minute later, I went to the ladies room.
After that episode a few days ago, I didn't go back to work. I felt that since I had the time off, why waste it.
When I left the ladies room, I noticed a billboard advertising different cosmetics and "take-one" coupons on a variety of things from the nearby supermarket and shoe stores as I browsed.
"Excuse me" someone said but I ignored them not realizing that they were speaking to me until I felt someone squeeze past me.
"Oh....." I said then I turned as the pressure of them passing by caught me by surprise and I was bumped.
"I'm sorry to have brushed past you like that but I really have to run to the men's room" the guy who had brushed me said.
"That's ok" I said as I saw him smile then watched as he retreated through the door of the men's room.
He was huge - almost gigantic and most definitely larger than Sean was.
Just then, I thought about him.
"Whatever", I thought but that was just the pissed off me talking.
A minute later I went back to my table and was just in time to receive my dessert so I thanked Gwen before she left again.
She also left my bill as well.
"Wow, she's a knockout" Brock thought after he looked at her.
He didn't mean to be so brisk because he almost knocked her down and though he knew that she didn't hear him when he excused himself the first time, he couldn't wait any longer so he automatically squeezed past without realizing how big he was and in essence he ended up bumping her.
"Mr. Lesnar and Mr. Heyman, your dessert is ready" Gwen informed them.
Brock had just returned to the table when she said that.
"Thanks" Paul said.
"Thank you" Brock said.
"I saw that" Paul said as they started eating.
"You saw what??" Brock asked.
"That little encounter of yours over by the washrooms" Paul said.
"Oh you mean when I brushed past the woman who was standing there?" Brock asked.
"Yes, that's exactly what I mean. What's up man?" Paul asked.
"Nothing. Paul don't start ok. You know that I practically ran over there a while ago because I was filled with all that damn water that I've been drinking so by sheer accident, my big bulky self bumped her when I passed and I told her that I was sorry that's all" Brock explained.
"Whatever. Anyway, since we're leaving Friday did you still want to go to that party over at the Forum Club tonight?" Paul asked.
"Yeah man but I still would prefer to bring someone with me even though it's short notice" Brock said.
"I know but in the meantime, is there anything that you want to do?" he asked.
Just then Brock looked over at the table of the woman he brushed and saw that she was about to leave.
"Yeah, there is something that I want to do. I'll be right back" Brock said.
With that, he got up from their table and went over to the woman who he brushed up against as she was just paying her bill.
Paul watched after him and smiled.
The pie was so good that I could have had another slice but a lady has to watch her girlie figure.
I got up from my table and took the check to the front counter where Gwen was standing.
"Hey there, I'm all done. As usual, everything was outstanding" I informed with a smile.
Just then, I noticed that her eyes shifted up to something behind me.
I turned..........
"Hi there again. I'm sorry and I know this may sound strange but I was wondering if you could please accompany me to a party over at Forum Club in Gainesville this evening?" the guy who had bumped me earlier asked.
"Wow, he sure is really big", I thought as I watched him.
"You're right - that does sound strange because I don't even know you" I responded then smiled at Gwen.
"That's right - I'm sorry. The name is Brock Lesnar ma'am but you can't blame a guy for trying. It's just that I would love to have you on my arm" he said.
"Oh, as a "show-piece" huh?" I asked then looked at Gwen again and winked.
"No....... not like that. It's just that I hate going to parties alone and since I'm just passing through to Atlanta, I figured that it wouldn't hurt to ask you, that is unless you have a boyfriend or husband" he said.
I soon realized that I didn't have any plans and wouldn't be returning to work until next Monday. So I figured "To hell with it - why not?", I thought.
"You're not going to kidnap me or anything like that, are you?" I asked.
"Of course not. Look over at that table there. That's my boss Paul Heyman and he'll be there as well. If anything should happen to you while you're in my presence, then he'll make sure that I take full responsibility" he said.
With that, I looked over at his table and noticed a pretty decent looking man smiling back over and waving at us.
"He's right you know. Mr. Lesnar and Mr. Heyman come through here every time they pass through town Toni" Gwen said from my right side.
"That may be true but a girl can't be careful enough these days but you know what? I think that it would be grand if I got out of the house tonight especially since I'm off until next Monday even though I don't usually date strangers on chance meetings like this" I informed.
"I know what you mean but I'll be on my best behavior and promise you no harm" he said then held his hand out.
"Mr. Brock Lesnar, I'm Toni Barnhart of Hales Corners, GA" I updated then we shook hands.
"So Ms. Barnhart, I can pick you up at 7:00pm tonight or if you'll feel safer, we can meet somewhere if that'll make you feel better" Brock said.
"I'll tell you what, let's meet at the Bancorp Meridian Parking Center near the highway that way when all is said and done, you can drop me off there and I'll get my car and hightail it on home with no obligation just because I'm helping you out in your dilemma since it's so last minute" I updated.
"Yeah, you're right so it's only fair" he said then smiled.
"You have a nice smile Brock" I said.
"Thanks" he answered.
"I drive a Chevy Malibu and I'll be waiting in it near the entrance of the garage. It's easier that way and thank god it's 24-hrs" I updated.
"Ok, I'm driving a Escapade SUV so don't get scared when you see that monster pull up to the lot" he said.
"Oh my, I might jump out of my skin" I said while feining being scared.
Brock and Gwen laughed.
Just then I paid my bill and received my change.
"See you around 7pm tonight Ms. Barnhart" Brock said.
"Yes you will, Mr. Lesnar" I added as he walked away.
"Goodnight Gwen. I'll see you next time" I said.
"Toni before you leave, I didn't want to bring this up before but I thought that you were spending the week with Sean" she said.
I just looked at her.
"It's a long story Gwen but to make a long story short, we aren't together anymore" I updated.
"I'm sorry to hear that sweetie but I think that you'll be seeing him tonight" she said.
"Why would you say that?" I asked.
"Let's just say that you should believe what I say. Have a great time tonight" she added.
With that, I turned to leave and looked back one last time but she had gone back to attending to other customers.
"Hummmm, I wonder why she said that", I thought to myself as I left the restaurant.
Sean was straightening up prior to getting ready for the party.
He had finally gone through his chest drawers. That's when he realized that there was a black bra deep in the back corner of the third drawer.
He pulled it out and looked at it then put it up to his nose and smelled.
"My God, I have been a fool" he said when he pulled Toni's bra away from his nose, "I have to get her back but she's never in life going to forgive me for what I've done" he said.
With that, he got up and put her bra on his pillow then went to shower.
5:15pm
"Where is my Victoria's Secret bra?", I wondered as I started dressing.
I had the panties but the bar was nowhere to be found.
I prayed that I didn't leave it at Sean's house though that was the last place that I remembered seeing it when I had unpacked while there.
Regardless, I grabbed my dark blue bra and panty set instead and continued to dress.
Strangely enough, I wondered if Brock had hang-ups over women who were older than him but it didn't matter because we were just going to a party for heaven's sake.
Though I still planned to ask him later anyway.
5:30pm
If it weren't for this company party, he would have been better off doing what he'd been doing since he and Toni broke up and that was staying at home moping over her.
He was finally dressed and ready to leave so he set his answering machine and locked up.
"I should consider returning to Louisville earlier than expected", he thought as he started the truck.
That would be something that he would most definitely think about more especially since there was no one keeping him in Georgia any longer.
Sean drove to Gainesville and made a mental note to think on that one further in the morning.
6:15pm
I left and drove over to the Bancorp Meridian Parking Center, which was right off US 23 that would take me to Gainesville or Atlanta.
When I finally arrived, I retrieved my parking ticket and parked as close to the entrance as I could so that I could see when Brock's truck pulled up.
I had approximately 15 minutes to spare so I turned on my overhead light to look in the mirror and check myself.
Afterwards while looking through my purse, I realized that I hadn't even checked to make sure that I had enough cash to pay for parking so when I looked, I found that I had well over $200. I was ok.
I was just closing my wallet when I saw it...... it was the wallet picture of Sean that he gave me some time ago.
He was posing for a photo shoot with his clothes on. I just stared at it.
A minute later, I looked up into the overhead mirror again and realized that my eyes had watered.
I looked down again and kissed his picture.
"I miss you Sean" I said then finally closed my wallet and put it away again.
I next grabbed one of the tissues on the side panel and dabbed at my eyes.
I surely didn't want Brock to see that I was crying so I did the best cover-up job that I possibly could.
I even used some Visine to "get the red out".
I laughed after that one then finally closed the mirror and turned the light out again.
Just then, I saw a large SUV stop at the curb outside of the parking lot.
Brock was rushing as fast as he could while trying his best not to attract the attention of any of the highway patrol that seemed to be all over the place tonight.
Eventually he saw the BM Parking Center off the highway then exited.
He looked at his watch. It was now 6:55pm.
"Just cutting it close man", he said out as he ascended the ramp.
He went over to the main entrance to the lot and looked around.
Just then, he saw her coming toward him.
"Beautiful", he sad out loud then jumped out of the truck and went around to greet her.
"Hi there Sir" I said after I left the parking lot and approached Brock.
"Wow, you look magnificent" he said as he approached me also.
"Thanks" I said as he opened his arms for a hug.
We hugged and he opened the door for me.
Since it was just about 70 out, I just brought my shawl with me just in case.
He helped me in and closed the door then raced around to the driver's side.
We took to the highway and headed into Gainesville.
"So Brock, what kind of party is this? I hope that I'm not overdressed" I said as I noticed his casual suit.
"You're just perfect. This is a party for the organization I work for. Everyone is either bringing their spouse or significant others as well so you can see why I didn't want to come alone. We usually do this twice a year and again I'm sorry for the short notice because it's so out of character for me but when Paul asked if we were still going to the party tonight, I asked you because you were the first person I thought of at that time since you were alone" he explained.
"I can live with that. So I take it that there will be dancing and all not just your average get together and talk about company policies and things of that nature, right?" I asked.
"For sure. The last thing I want to hear tonight is company talk because I want to show you a good time as well as show your beautiful self off" he updated then smiled.
"Thanks for the compliment" I said.
"It's well deserved" he added.
"I have a question for you Brock" I said.
"Shoot" he answered.
"How old are you?" I asked.
"Why I'm 25" he answered.
"If we were dating, would you have a problem if you found that I was older than you?" I asked point blank.
"Me? No way - especially if we were really getting to know each other and the feelings are mutual. Regardless, age isn't everything as long as you're grown and there are no age issues that exist. It's all-good then. Why do you ask?" he asked.
"Oh, no special reason. It's just a question I was thinking of that's all" I said.
We continued on into Gainesville until we arrived at the Club Forum.
Sean finally arrived at the club and parked.
He checked in and greeted a few people on his way over to the bar.
When we parked and Brock escorted me from the truck, I saw something that made my heart stop for a few seconds.
I read the banner above the entranceway of the club..........
"WELCOME TO OUR WWE FAMILY MEMBERS"
I could have died when I saw that.
"My God. Of all the party's in the world, why the WWE of all places. Why did this have to be the one that I attended?", I wondered as I stopped and just stared at it. I wanted to cry.
The timing was definitely off here because I had a strange feeling that I was going to run into Sean sooner or later as Gwen had told me earlier. Obviously she knew.
I also realized that Brock had to be one of their wrestlers as well.
"I should have known because he is so humongous", I thought.
"Why me God? Why me?", I asked the lord up above.
"Brock, do you work for the WWE or are you a guest of Paul's?" I asked.
"Why sweetie I'm a wrestler for the company. I came up from OVW for this as well as to visit my family in Augusta" he answered.
I could have died again.
Next, he escorted me over to the entrance and checked in then found Paul and introduced us.
I could hear music thumping through the place.
"Paul Heyman, I'd like to introduce you to my date for the evening, Ms. Toni Barnhart" Brock introduced.
"Well, Ms. Barnhart, you're even more lovely up close and personal" Paul said then reached for my hand.
"Mr. Heyman, it's a pleasure to meet you" I responded.
I was suddenly thinking of how a person would feel had he or she had a hot spotlight beaming down on them.
"Hey man, I'm glad that you made it" Chuck said when he came up behind Sean.
"Hey guy, what's happening?" Sean asked after he drank from his beer.
"Nothing much. So where's Toni? Did you bring her with you?" he asked.
"No. It's a long story" Sean answered.
Just then, Mike, Shawn, Reno and Mark walked up.
"Hey man" "Long time O'Haire" "What's up man?" were some of the greetings along with dapp and handshakes.
"Hey guys" Sean responded.
"So where is she man?" Mike asked.
"It's a long story" Sean answered.
"Man, I think you guys had better see who Brock brought tonight" Reno said out of nowhere.
"Where is he?" Chuck asked.
"He's over with Heyman near the entrance" Reno responded.
Just then, they all left the bar and went toward the entrance.
As I watched the couples dancing, I suddenly felt a chill like a ghost had just walked through me.
Right after that, I turned but didn't see anything out of the ordinary.
I remembered a few days ago when the phone rang a few times but no one had left a message.
I figured that it was Sean but I didn't dwell on it because I didn't want to mope no matter how much I missed him.
I wasn't sure what the cold chill meant but I had a strange feeling that Sean was somewhere around.
"Oh My God!" Mark said.
"What man? Let me see" Sean said.
He made his way to the front of his friends just as he looked over and saw Brock who also had a date with him.
Sean could have died - his heart dropped.
"What the fuck is going on here man?" Mike asked.
"Yeah man, I thought that you two were dating" Shawn said.
They had seen her of course - all of them saw her.
She was on Brock's arm - as his date.
Sean was livid.
They looked at him then at each other.
"Whoa man. Let it go Sean. Don't get stupid here because we're here with the brass and everyone else with the company" Chuck said.
"Yeah man, what the hell happened? Aren't you two still together?" Mike asked.
Before anything could start, they took him over to a nearby corner and sat him down at one of the vacant tables there.
"Look guys, everything was all good but as soon as she told me how old she was, I freaked out because I have never dated a woman older than me let alone been in love with one" he explained.
"That's all. Are you saying that you have some kind of hang-up or something over a woman being older than you?" Mark asked.
"Yes, I did but not anymore" Sean said.
"What in the hell is that supposed to mean? I thought that you loved her" Shawn said.
"I do. I just freaked out after she told me" Sean said.
"Well, how old is she? She can't be 10 year's older than you or something like that" Reno said.
"She's 31 and you know how you guys are. You would have never let me live it down" Sean said.
They all looked at each other again.
"You mean to tell us that though she's only two year's older than you, your ass let her go because you thought that we would joke you to death about it?" Reno asked.
"Damn Sean. And after all you went through to get with her you let her go just like that" Chuck said as he snapped his fingers together for emphasis.
"Yes, I did. But I made a mistake. Her exact words when I told her that I couldn't deal were "you're just like my "asshole ex-fiancée" and I guess that just goes to show me that "all men are the same" - they just come in their own different packaging of race, color and creed and finally that the strangest thing about our relationship is that you had no problem with our difference in race but you have a problem with our age? I don't get it and for the life of me as long as I live on this earth, I will never understand that" he explained to his friends.
"Well, she's right about that man" Chuck said.
"Yeah, I fell in love with her because of her but I didn't know that she was older than me" he said.
"That's stupid. If you say that you love her then you should love everything about her" Shawn said.
"Age isn't everything but it is sure damn hard to find love these days and you had love right in the grasp of your hands and you let it go as if it never existed yet it may be too late to make things right" Mark said.
"I know and realize that it's too late because the basic connection we had has been broken and the trust is probably gone as well. I can't imagine how she'd ever feel that I could protect her let alone that she'd be able to trust me again" Sean said.
Just then, he looked back over his shoulder but there was a crowd behind them so he didn't get the chance to see her and Brock again.
"You know, I really wonder how in the hell she knows Brock at all" Sean said.
"They could have met somewhere along the line. We don't know each and every person that our friends know" Mike said.
"I know but do you think that she planned to be with him here tonight so that she could rub it in my face?" Sean asked.
"No way man. It could be a spur of the moment thing because she doesn't seem like that kind of person" Chuck said.
"How long ago has it been since you two split up?" Mike asked.
"Saturday" Sean responded.
They looked at each other once again.
"Damn man, I'm sorry. I guess I can feel your pain on this one but don't be surprised if she's just as surprised to be here as she is to know that you're here as well especially since she's with another guy" Mark said.
"I hear you there" Sean said.
"Though in all essence should it really matter since you're not together anymore?" Mike asked.
"Hell yeah it does man because I still love her no matter what" Sean said heatedly.
"Don't go off the handle tonight man" Mark said.
"Yeah man, just be kool tonight" Chuck added.
"I will but if he makes a move on her, I'm going to........" Sean started.
"You're gonna what? Kill him?" Chuck asked.
"It'll be lonely in jail Sean" Mike added.
Sean turned around again and looked back.
He was really pissed especially because she looked beautiful for another man who was not him.
"Have you even tried to contact her since?" Shawn asked.
"Yes but I didn't leave a message. I just hung up because she didn't answer" he explained.
"Oh boy. Guys, we better watch out or Muscles here will probably blow tonight" Shawn said while pointing to Sean.
"I'm going to go over and say "Hi" Reno said.
"Same here" Mark said.
"Keep him at bay guys" Reno said as got up and left the rest of them at the table.
Brock had introduced me to quite a few other people as we mingled but I also realized how close he stayed to me during the first 35 minutes there as well.
I was kind of relieved in a sense that I hadn't run into Sean at all though a small spot in my heart wanted to see him again.
That was all short lived when I turned and saw Mark and Reno coming toward us when we went over to the bar for something to drink.
"Hey guys, what's up?" Brock asked when he saw them approaching.
"Hey man. Hi Toni. Wow, you look good-od" Mark said then gave Brock dapp.
"Hey guy. Hi Toni, you're very pretty tonight" Reno said as he focused on me.
"Hi Mark, Reno. Thanks for the compliment" I responded then smiled.
This was no time for questions - it was time for pleasantries just in case Sean was around and just in case they didn't know what had happened.
Regardless, I had a strong feeling that they knew.
"So you guys know Toni?" Brock asked.
"Yeah, we have mutual friends" Mark said.
"Yeah, Mark and Reno are friends of two of my friends. Brock and I met at the HC Emporium earlier today" I updated while making light of the situation.
"That's right. Paul and I were having lunch in HC and I had to run to get to the bathroom something awful. Worse thing about that was that I almost knocked her down in the process and she was nice enough to forgive me. So since I didn't want to come here alone, I asked her to be my date for tonight and she accepted on short notice to put me out of my misery. Strangest thing about it was that she didn't even know that we were coming here. You should have seen the look on her face when we got here" Brock explained.
Mark and Reno just looked at each other.
I turned my head and looked around at some of the other people.
"That's right. You couldn't even imagine my shock when we got here but I was glad to help Brock out in his spur of the moment dilemma" I updated.
"Understandable" Reno said then smiled.
"Hey, the rest of the guys are here as well. Mike, Chuck, Sean and Stasiak are over at a table on the other end of the bar. Why don't you two come over and say "Hi"?" Mark asked.
Just then, I could have died when he asked that.
He and Reno were watching me then played if off when I looked at them.
"Man look, I can't just sit here all night and wait for the world to come crashing down" Sean said.
"Yeah and you can't go out there and make an ass of yourself either. What if you embarrass yourself out there or better yet, what if she embarrasses you in front of everyone?" Mike asked.
"I'd feel completely and totally humiliated for sure" Sean answered defeatedly.
"Right!! That's the ticket" Chuck said.
"So just sit here and act like a gentleman man" Shawn said.
"Excuse me gentlemen, I'll be right back. Brock why don't you go and visit with your friends. I'll be over soon" I said.
"Take your time but don't run out on me" Brock said then smiled.
Mark and Reno just watched after me.
I walked away and could have kept on going because I sure didn't want an encounter with Sean now that I found that he was here as well.
"Hey guys" Brock said when Mark and Reno brought him to the table.
They all stood and greeted him.
"Hey man, good to see you" Sean said and gave dapp but he looked over Brock's shoulder to see if Toni was behind him. He didn't see her.
"Hi man" "Hey there" "What's up?" Chuck, Shawn and Mike said in greeting.
"Excuse me, I'll be back in a minute" Sean said then walked away.
The rest of them looked at each other while they watched him.
Brock noticed how they were looking at each other and all but didn't think much of it.
Mark knew that this was a great opportunity for Sean to make his move to speak to her because he hadn't since they broke up.
"I brought someone with me but I take it that you guys already know her. She said that she'll be over soon" Brock said.
"Yeah, we know her alright" Mike said.
"Have a seat man. I'm sure that she's not far off" Chuck added.
Brock sat with them and they made small talk.
Sean saw her immediately when he cleared past the group of people near the washrooms.
She looked up at him and stopped dead in her tracks....... she almost looked as if she'd run off.
"Hi Toni. You look very pretty tonight" he said.
"Hello Sean" I said.
"So you're here with Brock Lesnar, huh?" Sean asked.
"Yes, I'm here as his date" I answered while wondering where this was leading.
I wanted to jump into his arms but I was more levelheaded than that.
"I won't keep you from him but I just have one question for you. Did you sleep with him?" he asked.
I just looked at him and realized that he had a lot of nerve to ask something so personal and I really didn't want to answer him.
"Would it make or have made a difference Sean?" I asked him.
It was his turn to look at me now. He didn't say anything.
It looked as if his eyes had started to water a little as well.
"How could you just go out with someone that you hardly even know?" he asked.
"What does it matter to you anyway. It's none of your business anymore Sean so don't worry about it, ok?" I asked.
"It's not that easy. I can't just let it go like that" he said.
"I'm surprised to hear you say that because you sure didn't have a problem turning your back on me and letting me go because of your ego" I explained as I looked at him.
"What choice did I have?" he asked me sadly.
"Obviously only one and you made that one very crystal clear. You did what your head told you to do because that one decision clearly mattered more than your love for me Sean" I explained.
"I know and that's what I came over here to tell you. I do love you Toni - I've never stopped loving you. I've been a complete asshole over this age thing and I want to make things right between us again" he explained.
"If things never turned sour between us so fast, I never would have even been put in the middle of this "guy-thing" in the first place Sean. I didn't know that he was bringing me to a WWE party of all places until we got here let alone did I know that he was a professional wrestler like yourself. But I guess you can understand my dilemma especially since the same thing pretty much happened between us when we met because I didn't know that you were famous either. Regardless, when I got here, I had a strong feeling that you'd be here as well and believe me, that one revelation made me want to run for the border. I'm only sorry that under those circumstances, that a WWE function is the first place that I'd next see you at after we broke up especially with my being here with one of your very own co-workers so imagine how I'm feeling overall. If we'd never split in the first place things would have been different but I can't sit around waiting for someone who has hang-ups over age issues especially since I'd have to look at them everyday and wonder if they hate me because I'm two years older than they are. But regardless of my being here tonight and regardless of us seeing each other again, it doesn't change things between us no matter what because you made your decision, which led me to make mine. Overall, I think it best if you go your way and I go mine because as I've said before, no matter which way you look at it, I'll always be older than you are" I explained.
"I didn't come over here to fight with you Toni. I just thought that I should let you know that I love you no matter what but I also know that I realized that too late" he said.
"If you want me on your arm just to prove to yourself that you could get me back then you should keep on stepping. Though if it's because you know that you can't live without me and honestly/truly love me unconditionally, then I'll definitely think about and consider seeing you again. If you've come to terms with my age then I'm happy for you but for now, I'd love nothing better than to be left alone to enjoy the rest of my evening with the person I came with" I explained as I stared at him.
Just then Brock came over.
"Hey there you two. So I see that you've met each other" he said as he put his arm around my shoulder.
I could see that Sean automatically tensed up when he saw that.
"Yeah, we've met alright. Sean and I dated once upon a time. Isn't that right Sean?" I asked snidely.
"Well, yes - we did" Sean said with a look of embarrassment on his face.
"Oh.... well, uh....." Brock started as he removed his arm.
"Excuse me gentlemen, I have to go and powder my nose" I said as I excused myself with a weak smile.
I walked away before anyone could say a word.
"What the hell man? Did you say something to upset her?" Brock asked Sean after Toni walked away.
Sean just looked at him. He wasn't sure if he wanted to kill him for interfering or if he should just leave.
"We were just talking that's all. I didn't say anything to upset her" Sean answered.
"Whoa, whoa guys! This is a party remember?" Mike asked as he and the guys walked up.
"Yeah and I didn't come here to fight tonight" Sean said.
Brock just looked at him.
"Neither did I but I did bring a date with me who is a very pretty woman that I plan to show a good time to tonight. So if you guys don't mind, please let me do that and please respect her because she didn't know that I was bringing her here. The last thing she needs is a confrontation between grunts" Brock explained.
Sean had been seething all night. Not because Toni was there but because she was there with Brock Lesnar of all people.
"How in the hell did that ever happen?", he wondered.
More than anything, it was worse when Brock came up and mentioned that she and Sean had finally met.
He could have punched him right in the nose on the spot then and there especially when he put his arm around her.
But he knew that Brock hadn't done anything to him. It's just that the timing of everything that had taken place was so terribly off as he hadn't expected to see her again anytime soon after their breakup.
"Look guys, I want to talk to Sean alone for a minute, ok?" Brock asked.
"Sure man but you two better not get into anything" Mike said.
Brock spoke up after they walked away......
"You know Sean, you're a fool to let a good woman like that get away from you. When I met her, she didn't seem to be broken hearted or unhappy but I guess women can hide those things well. I don't know if I'm a better man than you are but I do know how to treat a woman. At least I don't have hang-ups over age differences because as long as we both have a certain groove going on that no one can break, neither age nor anything else makes a difference" Brock explained to Sean.
"Look man, just take care of her and keep a smile on her face. Even though I love her, she'll never truly believe that I no longer have a hang-up over age though I know that I've been a fool over the entire situation in the first place but just keep her happy" Sean said.
"I hear 'ya man and though things like that just don't change overnight, don't expect her to believe you anytime soon. Though we're just here together for this party, I'm not one to come between two people even though I know that you two have recently broke up. Don't ask me how I know - I can just tell. You should be honored and proud to be with her because she's a knockout man. I wish I could turn her head the way you do. I saw how she looked at you and how you look at her - there's something special still there man" Brock explained.
"That may be true and though you and I know it, she doesn't" Sean said.
"Stubborn could be a good word for it but I wouldn't be too sure of that if I were you about her not knowing it if I were you. Just one other thing, you probably don't know this but I'm actually younger than you are man - I'm 25 year's old. As soon as I saw her, age was the last thing on my mind and when she told me how old she was, I just hunched my shoulders because I could care less" Brock explained.
"Again that may be true but you two aren't dating. We were in a relationship and maybe I should have "checked out the merchandise before I put in a purchase" as she put it, I know that I was foolish because I realized how that's just something I have to live with no matter what if I want to be with her and I definitely want that" Sean explained.
"Right! That's just my point. Whether you're dating, together as a couple or whatever, it shouldn't matter one bit regardless but I guess like you, there are a lot of people out there who have hang-ups over age issues. It's a sad situation because a lot of people miss out on love because of it" Brock said.
"I know and it took a hard lesson for me to learn that. Now, it looks like I've lost her forever" Sean said.
"I believe that you're pretty wrong about that man. Sooner or later she'll come around - you'll see. In the meantime, I'll make sure that she gets home safe so don't worry" Brock said.
"Thanks man. Not a lot of men would look out for another guy in a situation like this" Sean said.
"That's just the kind of man that I am" Brock explained.
They shook hands and Sean went back over to his friends.
I sure prayed that they wouldn't get into some kind of altercation tonight.
I washed my hands after I finished in the ladies stall then went over to the makeup mirror to check myself.
I was fine and I know that I said some pretty harsh words to Sean but they were well deserved because of how he was to me the last time we were together and tonight as well.
I didn't want to go over with Brock because I knew that I would have to see Sean but for him to come up on me like that was pure shock in itself.
I didn't want to leave the party because it was still pretty early and I didn't want to be in the same room with Sean unless we were actually together.
So now I was torn between two dilemmas - I wanted to stay and I wanted to leave all at the same time.
Regardless, I decided to seek Brock out and talk to him.......
Sean met up with the guys again.
"So what did he say?" Chuck asked.
"Well to get right down to the nitty gritty, he put me in my place by telling me that I was a fool to let her get away, he told me to give her some time and finally he told me that he would show her a good time and make sure that she got home safely tonight so I had nothing to worry about" Sean explained.
"Sounds like Mr. Lesnar is a pretty decent fellow to me" Mark said.
"I figured that he was myself also but the overall shock of seeing them was something else" Reno said.
"Well, I've had enough fun for tonight. So with that, I'm outta here" Sean said.
"Look man, don't sweat it. Just remember that if it wasn't for you two, Munchie and I and Mark and Pepper wouldn't be seeing each other. Don't forget that man. It's because of you guys that we're happy so don't give up man" Reno said.
"Damn right I won't" Sean said.
They all stood and gave dapp then Sean left the club and went home.
Brock saw when Sean left and nodded when he looked in his direction on the way out.
I found Brock with Paul then tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention.
"Hi sweets. Everything ok?" he asked when he turned.
"Sure. I was wondering if you'd like to dance?" I asked.
"I was going to ask you the same thing" he said.
Just then, he led me out to the dance floor.
"Time, Sean my boy. Time heals all wounds" he said to himself as he hit US 23 to connect back on I-85 to Atlanta.
He turned on the radio and drove the rest of the way listening to love songs as his eyes watered slightly.
As they danced, Brock could see that she was pondering over something.
He could also see her looking around every now and then.
He knew that she was thinking about Sean as well as he knew that she was looking for him but he wanted her to feel comfortable because after all he was the one who pretty much dragged her out and the last thing he wanted was to see her moping.
Since he and Sean had talked, he decided that he would continue to do the honorable thing and make sure that he kept his promise and that was that he would make sure that she wouldn't forget about him.
He wished and prayed that when he fell in love that if things ever went awry between him and his woman that someone would do the same for him in return.
He smiled as he thought about the good deeds that he was doing.
"Hey beautiful lady" he said then grabbed her and swung her around and around while they danced until she started smiling.
"Ooooouuu weeeee" Brock shouted as they danced.
Brock was a fantastic dancer but the more I danced with him the more I thought about Sean.
I think that he realized what I was doing because he grabbed me and shouted out as he was having a good time.
Unfortunately, soon it had gotten late and the evening came to an end.
"Wow Toni, you danced my feet off" Brock finally said.
"I know but now it's time that we bid ado to this place" I chimed in.
"Let's get out of here then" he said.
With that, Brock went to say goodnight to some people there.
I saw Mike and the guys getting ready to leave also so I waved to them just as Brock came over.
"Ready to go ma-lady?" he asked.
"Yes, kind Sir I am" I answered.
With that, he escorted me outside and over to his truck then helped me inside.
We hit US 23 back to HC and I dozed a bit.
"Toni, sweetie we're here" I heard Brock say as he roused me awake.
"Wow, you must have flew here" I said as I woke groggily.
"No, I did the speed limit and drove safe" he said.
"Brock, I had an outstanding time. Thanks for inviting me" I said.
"Same here and thank you for being my date" he said.
With that, he escorted me to the parking lot and even paid for my parking.
When I got inside my car, I drove out of the lot and over to meet him back at his truck.
"Thanks again Brock" I said.
"Will you be ok? You're not sleepy are you?" he asked.
"No but you can follow me home if it'll make you feel better" I said.
"No problem" he said.
He got behind the wheel of his truck and did just that.
35 minutes later........
"Goodnight sweetheart" Brock said as our vehicles sat side by side outside of my parking garage.
"Goodnight Brock and thanks again. I had an outstanding time and I think that I needed it more than you did" I said.
"That may be true but I know in your heart that you wish that Sean was with you instead of me" he admitted.
"I'm sorry Brock but I did have an outstanding time tonight" I admitted.
"That Sean O'Haire is one lucky SOB. Just make sure that he takes care of you or I'll take care of him" he said.
"Thanks Brock. You're a wonderful sort of guy" I said.
"That's me alright. Now you go on and get inside sweetheart before I have to kill somebody for going after your fine self" he said.
"I hope that I see you again Brock" I said.
"No you don't. Just be happy because that's all I want for you. One last thing. I know that you were looking for Sean while we were dancing but I saw when he left earlier before we got to the dance floor" he said then smiled.
"Do you forgive me?" I asked with concern.
"Of course and though you don't know what the future holds, just make sure that he treats you right when you two get back together for me, ok?" he asked.
I looked at him and smiled.
"Most definitely it's a done deal Sir" I said.
"Take care of yourself" he said.
"I will and you drive safe" I said.
With that, I went into the garage while waving then parked.
Finally I high-tailed it on up to my apartment.
"Home Sweet Home" Sean said when he got inside. He went to shower then hit the hay.
"Home Sweet Home" I said then went up to shower and hit the hay.
WEDNESDAY, July 24, 2002 (8:15pm - Atlanta, GA)
"I'm crazy for trying and crazy for crying"
"And I'm crazy for loving youuuuuuuuuu"
That was the end of Patsy's song "Crazy" that had just ended on my car radio as I pulled up to the Hyatt Regency valet in downtown Atlanta.
"Good evening ma'am and welcome to the Hyatt" the valet said as he opened my door.
"Thank you Sir" I said after I hit the button to open my trunk.
My bags were taken out and I was handed a ticket for my car then I went around to the other side and followed the bag cart inside to the front desk.
"Reservation for Toni Barnhart please" I informed the clerk.
"One moment Miss" he said then went to his computer.
"Yes, I'm definitely crazy for loving you Sean O'Hare" I said out loud.
The desk clerk looked at me but he just smiled.
Someone tapped me on the shoulder.
I turned and looked directly into the eyes of who it was.
He was holding my garment and duffel bags.
"Come on baby - come with me doll" he said.
I hesitated.......
"Come on sweetheart. Don't be scared" he added.
I turned back to the clerk and cancelled my reservation.
He just nodded his head and smiled.
"Good luck ma'am" he said.
I turned back to him and watched as he backed up toward the front entrance with a look on his face that begged me to follow.
I did without hesitation or argument.
I saw his vehicle at the curb as it waited for him to enter it.
"Please get Ms. Barnhart's car asap" he instructed.
"Yes Sir" the valet said.
I just watched him yet I didn't say a word.
Something was guiding me but I don't know what.
Regardless, I couldn't do anything but follow as he instructed.
He kept my bags to make sure that I would follow him as well.
When my car arrived, I got inside and let the window down.
Just then his vehicle pulled up beside me with the passenger window down.
He leaned out and spoke.........
"Follow me" he said.
Those were his only spoken words.
To that effect, I followed without hesitation.
20 minutes later, we arrived at his home............
I didn't move as my car was behind his in the driveway.
He got out with my bags and disappeared inside of his home.
A minute later he came back out and over to my car and opened my unlocked door.
I'm sure that the blast of Patsy Cline music that was blaring on my car radio hit him hard.
"Ms. Barnhart you're not crazy for loving me. I'm crazy for letting you go and for as long as I live I'll regret that for the rest of my life" he said.
Just then "Walking After Midnight" came on........
He stood there and smiled.
"That's our song" he said.
"Yeah that's right. This is OUR song alright" I responded.
"May I have this dance?" he asked.
"Yes you may" I answered then stood.
He put his arms out in our couple's stance and this time she was there with him to share that special moment that was just so right and pulled her close to him........
Walkin' After Midnight
(Patsy Cline)
I go out walkin' after midnight
Out in the moonlight
Just like we used to do
I'm always walkin' after midnight searchin' for you
I walk for miles along the highway
Well, that's just my way
Of sayin' I love you
I'm always walkin' after midnight, searchin' for you
CHORUS:
I stop to see a weepin' willow
Cryin' on his pillow
Maybe he's cryin' for me
And as the skies turn gloomy
Night winds whisper to me
I'm lonesome as I can be
I go out walkin' after midnight
Out in the moonlight
Just hopin' you may be
Somewhere a-walkin' after midnight, searchin' for me
After the song ended we stopped and looked deep into each other's eyes.
He grabbed me to him and we kissed.
Suddenly I heard a burst of clapping and shouts of excitement and joy around us.
I took it for what the effects of the kiss was doing to me but when we parted it became louder and I noticed that he was grinning widely.
Next I turned and saw that people were all around us as they had viewed the entire scene that we'd created for them.
I was immediately embarrassed with excitement as they applauded us, I just stepped away from him and took a bow.
He did the same.
"Get her loverboy" "Sean, you 'da man" "That was lovely" people were shouting around us.
"Thank you everyone. Thank you" I said out to the crowd.
Sean just stood there waving to them and continued to smile.
His neighbors dispersed just as fast as they came into view.
He locked up my car and guided me into the house while holding my hand.
He led me into the livingroom after he'd locked the front door.
I knew that this was going to be a long night as we had some things to hash out once and for all because we'd been apart for so long.
A long night indeed.............
That was 3 1/2 months ago.........
It wasn't easy and as a matter of fact I thought about it so hard once that I almost walked out on him again but I endured because love was there. But I guess once the seed had been planted in my head over the issues in the first place, it just gave me reason to think about it all the time. Moreso if it got to me, I would be able to jump up and bolt whenever I wanted to.
Regardless, eventually I finally put that to rest and moved on.
TUESDAY, November 12, 2002
"Happy Birthday baby. I have a surprise for you" Sean said when he picked me up from work.
We went to the HC Emporium and he presented me with the best gift that I could ever want in life - a gift of my dreams.
No it was not an engagement ring because I knew that we were way far from that and I was not ready.
It was someone who I hadn't seen in a while.
Someone who helped make our reunion sweet.
"Happy Birthday To You, Happy Birthday To You, Happy Birthday Dear Toni, Happy Birthday To You"
Everyone there sang when we entered.They started screaming and clapping afterward.
"Thanks everyone" I said as I smiled and was greeted with hugs and warm wishes.
"Thanks baby" I said over to Sean who was standing with Gwen.
"This is not your birthday present. That's it behind you. Turn around" Sean and Gwen said.
I looked at them in confusion as the entire place got quiet then I turned.......
"Brock!!!!" I screamed with excitement when I looked behind me.
"Toni! Happy Birthday sweetheart" he said as I jumped up into his open arms.
"I'm so glad that you're here. Oh God thank you for coming" I cried.
"Thank you for having a birthday. I wouldn't miss it for the world" he said as we hugged each other tight.
I started crying.
"Oh baby don't cry. You're gonna make me cry and that's not gonna look good in front of all these people" Brock said.
"But it's my party and I'll cry if I want to" I said then everyone started laughing.
Just then, Sean and Gwen came over.
When I got a really good look around, I saw so many people that I knew. Munchie, Reno, Mike, Chuck, Mark, Pepper, Shawn, Paul, Mr. Dithers, some other people from my office, Gwen of course and her boss Hank who was the owner, others from WWE who I had met along the way with Sean and on the night of their party.
"My God, everyone thanks for being here. I didn't know that you all were here" I said as I really took a good look around.
"This is all for you sweetie - we love you" they all said in their own way.
"Baby, thank you for all of this" I told Sean when I turned to him.
He hugged me and held me tight.
"Awwwwwww" "Look at the lovebirds" "Alright O'Haire better keep her happy this time because we're not gonna forgive you again" "I'm gonna cry" were some of the responses as well as a lots of laughs after some of the comments around us.
I realized that the entire restaurant was shut down for the evening especially for my party.
Hank and Gwen along with some of the employees had setup a buffet and even had a lovely birthday cake made.
"Gwen made your cake baby" Sean said.
I looked at it and read.
"Happy Birthday, Toni
(Psycho Sexy's Woman Forever)"
I cried when I saw that inscription.
"Forever. For sure" I said as I wiped my eyes.
"With no doubts and no fears, no hang-ups and no issues sweetheart" Sean whispered in my ear as he stood over me.
I motioned to everyone to quiet down because I wanted to speak........
"Everyone, I know that with all of you being here to help me celebrate tonight that you have to know in your own special way that Sean and I split up for a while. It was a split that was pretty devastating to me - one which never should have happened but I'm glad to say that we're back together for the duration. Be it life or death or be it until we really can't handle being with each other anymore. Regardless, of that fact I know in my heart that I have myself a man who loves and cherishes me with all of his heart. I mean he has to right? Because what other kind of man would invite someone as big and sexy as Brock to their woman's party - pretty much as her birthday present?" I asked and explained.
"Whoooo Hooooo" everyone shouted.
I looked over at Sean and Brock. They were blushing like crazy.
"That kind of man would either have to be a fool or most definitely be in love and I know for pure fact that Sean O'Haire is no fool. So I guess that he really does love me, yeah?" I asked.
"Yeah" "Most definitely" "Sean's in love" "Damn, I wonder if when I do that for my woman, will she love me more?" were some of the answers around me.
"You guys are crazy" I said while laughter rang out around me.
I had to cover my face on that last one or I would have burst.
"With that being said, let's eat" I added.
There was applause and cheers then everyone went to fill up on that scrumptious buffet that was prepared.
"Time and patience helped us both endure after that night man. You were a lifesaver" Sean told Brock.
"Anything to help my friends out man" Brock told him.
"Hey tough guy" I said to Brock from his left side.
"Hey sweetie. I almost shit when O'Haire called and invited me here" Brock said.
"Well something obviously clicked and he came to his senses though I wish I were a spec on the wall when you guys were talking that night" I informed.
He just looked at me.
"Don't worry, no one told me anything about your conversation. Its a man's secret oath to each other but I do know that you two talked. Thanks Brock. Thanks for being there and for being my friend" I said.
"Brock Lesnar, at your service" he said as he reached down to hug me.
I finally cornered Sean again......
"I remember telling you that I wished that you never returned for me baby. Big, big mistake on my part. I'm definitely truly happy to know that Psycho Sexy has definitely returned" I said.
"I did, didn't I?" he asked.