Emma walked into The Computer Man and Brent was at the counter, filling out
an invoice. He looked up and a cheery smile advanced across his face.
Stan had always worn a pleasant expression when any mention of Emma was
made. "Hey, Emma, is the boss expecting you?"
"No." Brent noticed she didn't look as happy as usual, maybe a bad day at school.
"I'll go get him." And he disappeared into the backroom.
Those few seconds he was gone, Emma paced around the floor of the shop. There were various computers set up and accessories on shelves, which she knew nothing about. She was starting to feel nervous and the palms of her hands felt sweaty.
Stanley came out of the backroom with an extra bounce in his step. "This is a surprise." He looked pleased to see her as a smile lit up his features. Then he noticed her expression was one of a reluctant messenger. He moved towards her, putting his arm around her waist, "Something's happened...Emma what is it?"
She noticed Brent looking at them both, and Stanley noticed her apprehension to speak, "We can go in my office. Come on back." He gave her a little push as she walked past Brent into the backroom. Turning to Brent, "I don't want to be disturbed."
"Righty-O, boss, no worries."
He rarely used the office, preferring more open space...ever since his time in prison this had been the case. And it was apparent as they walked in. The desk was immaculate, in fact there was not one thing on it that gave the impression someone actually worked there...he preferred the work area in the backroom where he could spread out and see the comings and goings of customers in the shop. He shut the door, pulling up a chair for Emma and he sat on the edge of the desk leaning towards her, taking hold of her hand,
"It can't be that bad." He tried to make light of it, and she pulled her hand away from him. He was startled. "I guess it is that bad."
She stood up and turned her back towards him not wanting to face him, "They are talking about us." There wasn't much room to pace with.
He looked a bit confused, "Who?"
"The whole school. A parent has complained."
"I am not following you. I can't understand what anyone would have to complain about." This was a little perplexing.
"My inappropriate behavior."
"I need more information here, Emma...as far as I know, there has been no inappropriate behavior." His arms crossed in front of his chest.
She began to get agitated at the whole ludicrous situation. Both arms rose in a V formation above her head to vent. "Well, that is not how they see it. You are a parent, and your child is a student in my classroom..." Both arms came to her side with a double soft plop. She kept speeding up, "And something is obviously going on and the kids saw you take my hand the other day..." Now both hands were presented out to the front palms up, still venting. "And Christina's mother swears that we are making bedroom eyes in front of the students and Mr. Henderson says it has to stop." Double dipped soft plop.
He stood up and went over to her, taking her by the shoulder, bringing her attention to his face. "Okay, okay,. slow down...someone complained to the principal?" He smiled at the thought of bedroom eyes, was that what they were? Then shook that thought out of his mind.
".That I am playing favorites." She finished, quite exasperated. ". that I treat Holly different than the other kids, and that something is going on between us."
He looked into her eyes, "Well, is it?"
"Is it what?" she was surprised by this comment.
"Is something going on between us?"
She paused at the frankness of the question. "Stanley, this is serious. I could lose my job."
"You didn't answer my question."
"I don't know" she searched his eyes then they fell down to her feet, feeling the room getting incredibly hot and stuffy. She was so ashamed of her next words "I can't see you anymore."
He felt a bit angry by this last comment, "Now wait a minute, your principal has every right to reprimand you for something happening in front of your students, but outside of the classroom, he has no control of what you do, Emma."
Her feet still held her gaze. This was a very unwanted task but she continued on. "A lot of your clientele have kids at the school, as well as your neighbors. I can't see you outside of school either. He made that perfectly clear."
"This is ridiculous." He walked away from her and around the other side of the desk, in the small office. He sat down in the chair and clasped his fingers together, tightly on the desk. Anger was broiling just under the surface. He hesitated then looked up. "Do you want to see me?"
She hesitated, "Yes, but...."
"Then that's all that's important. Fuck, your principal." Emma had never seen Stanley so upset.
"I can't lose this job."
"So basically it's me or the job."
"No, it's not like that."
"I'll go talk to him. He has no right."
Emma could see the disastrous results of that action. "Stanley, you can't do that. Holly is doing so well right now. It will only make matters worse."
"So I am suppose to sit back and let this guy control my personal life? I don't think so, Emma. And you shouldn't stand for it either. It's none of his god damn business what either one of us do outside of his precious little school."
Emma had never seen him so upset and she wasn't sure how to react to him. The fact that he cared for her enough to fight seemed a gallant gesture but at the same time, she didn't like conflicts. And Stanley was obviously willing and able to cause one over this matter. She tried to organize her thoughts. What to say, what to do. No matter what, it wouldn't be right. She knew that. She couldn't risk her job, not at this time.
Stanley looked across the table at her and saw her deep in thought. It didn't look good.
"Stanley...I just feel for now, that we should slow down."
"I believe we were already taking that path, Emma." a little irritated. He was not ready for what might be coming.
"I know...what I mean is not seeing each other for awhile, wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing."
He looked up surprised, "For whom? I want to see you, Emma."
"It's only temporary."
Those words rang an empty hollowness within his heart. His desire for this lady grew daily. It was not a future he was willing to embrace even for a short duration. "Am I supposed to wait until summer, when Holly is out of your class? Because I don't know if I can do that." His voice raised above his normal vocals.
"I didn't say that. Stop yelling at me. You seem to think that you are the only one that this is effecting. But I will tell you something Stanley Jobson, this effects me more than you." Unknown to them, Meg's domino effect was ripping through their closeness that had grown over the months. "And you could at least be a little bit understanding about my position. I have only been working since September, if something happens to me at this job, it will be in my records and I don't think you realize how hard it will be for me to get another job." She had said enough, she just wanted to go home. She felt he had no idea how humiliating it would be for her to loose this job. Her children. her life. A lot depended on her. That simple thought struck a raw nerve. What little she had accomplished was teetering in the balance. It is so easy for men to demand this and want for that. They had it so much easier in the financial world. A simple lame waggle of the finger in her face and out the door by someone's manipulation of the facts went her whole pathetic life as she new it.
It was more than she could bear.
With tears seeping, she picked up the pieces of her torn feelings for this man and exited as hastily as she could, stage left.
Stan sat there staring at an empty chair. He couldn't believe what she had forced herself to do and come tell him.
After she left Stanley walked slowly out to the floor where Brent had a look of bewilderment on his face, he looked at Stanley who looked devastated. This guy had been so happy, the last few days. Emma had put a spark into his life and after Friday night, it really seemed that something was happening, but she had left the shop crying and now Stanley's look confirmed that whatever happened in the backroom wasn't good.
"Hey, Stan, is she okay?"
He shook his head, "No, I don't think she is."
"Then go after her, man. Don't let her leave in that state."
Stanley didn't budge and Brent found it odd. He was the type to make things right. He watched her drive off from the front window and then backed off, passing Brent and went into the back and finished the repair he had started earlier.
* * * * * * *
Emma got on with her life, the minute she got home. There were bills to pay and kids to feed. She had promised Melody they could go shopping after dinner. Kyle was going on and on about the car his dad was going to get him for his 16th birthday...only a few weeks away ,at the dinner table. Emma tried to seem interested the best she could. Kyle sensed something was up after a few moments, but his mom was hiding it. Probably for Melody's sake. She did that a lot. Emma knew this was right. She had to raise her kids, keep her job, and even though the thought of possibly losing Stanley devastated her, she had to get her priorities right. She just wanted to put this whole day behind her.
* * * * * * * *
Tuesday morning, Stanley felt like shit. He hadnt' slept and he kept replaying the words she had said..."I can't see you anymore." After Friday night, he had been in such high spirits. Everything seemed to be falling into place. Now it felt like he had been hit head on by a truck, and pulling himself together after such a impact, wasn't going to be an easy task But for Holly's sake, life had to go on. He headed out towards the kitchen and Holly was pouring him his coffee. She handed it to him, as he managed one of his half smiles and kissed the top of her head. She knew right away he was not in a good mood.
"Dad, are you okay?"
He sat down on the bar stool and took a sip of the coffee. Wondering how he was going to make it through the day in his state, then looked up and put on the face for Holly, "Sure, baby, why do you ask?"
"You just seem different today."
"I had a bad night's sleep. I'll be fine." He looked at the clock on the microwave, "The bus will be here soon, you better get your stuff together."
She picked up her lunchbox on the counter, "I'm coming by the shop today, that's okay right?" He was deep in thought and hadn't heard her, staring off into the distance.
"Dad?" She snapped her fingers in front of him.
"What?" once again smiling at her.
"Maybe you need a day off. I think you're working to hard." He nodded, took another sip of coffee and wished he could go back to bed.
"That's probably it."
"So are you going to take a day off?" she questioned him.
"I wasn't thinking about it..."
"Well, you should. We could take the motor home away for a weekend." She became animated and excited as she climbed up on the bar stool next to him, " I"ve got an even better idea, we could ask Emma and her kids to go with us. Dad that would be so much fun, don't you think."
How was he going to tell Holly? She was so happy with the prospect of her Dad and Emma dating. And now was already planning family camping trips. He was glad when he heard the horn of the bus outside, "You're going to miss your bus." He got up and grabbed her backpack off the coat rack by the front door and handed it to her, leaning over and kissing her cheek. "Now run along." He gave her a pat on the bottom.
She turned around at the door, "Can I ask her if she'd like to go camping with us sometime?"
Stanley didn't mean to raise his voice, but the idea of Holly mentioning him at all to her, put him on edge, "No, definitely not."
"But Dad...:"
The bus horn beeped again, "Go on now." He pushed her out the door and she reluctantly made her way to the bus, turning and looking at him every step of the way, wondering what had happened yesterday to make her dad in such a bad mood.
* * * * *
Stanley got to the shop before Brent and today was glad to have the peace and quiet. Brent was usually in his face about something and today Stanley didn't want to talk about much of anything. He was glad of the work load he had for the day. It would keep him busy and his mind off Emma...although he knew that was highly unlikely. He put on his headphones and started on a motherboard that needed some work on. It was a more detailed job and it was just what Stanley needed at this time....but after only a few minutes of Bruce Springsteen blaring in his ears, he became irritable and couldn't concentrate. He tore the headphones off his ears and looked down at the board. Damn, he couldn't do this. What was wrong with him? He stood up and walked over to the desk he occupied in the center of the room and flicked through his roll a dex. He found M...and Holly's school number. He took the card off the file and fingered it, turning it over and over....He wanted to call her. Just leave a voice mail. Probably not the wisest choices, then it came to him. He could call Rachel....Jacobs wasnt' it? She might be able to give him some answers. He sat down at the desk and dialed the number. It kicked into the system and he had to press 2 and the pound key to get the teachers voice mail listings. He then punched in Rachels and waited to hear the message...."This is Rachel Jacobs...please leave a message at the tone and I will get back to you as soon as I can. Have a great day." He heard the tone and hesitated slightly, "Ms. Jacobs, this is Stanley Jobson.....could you call me back at the shop as soon as you can." He then hung up. He realized he hadn't left a number, damn...he redialed and left a number.
He felt all morning he was waiting for the phone to ring, Brent noticed his anxiety but left him to finish up the motherboard job. Staying far away. He had now realized Stanley wasn't a nice person to be around when he was upset. This was rare, mind you. But the guy, had a temper.
At 10:30 the phone rang and Stanley took it in his office, closing the door. "Ms. Jacobs, thanks for calling me back."
"Mr. Jobson, I don't know if I can help..."
"You know what's happened right?"
"Yeah, I do. And I think it stinks."
"Not half as much as I do." he paused, "Look, I just need to know if she's okay. She left here yesterday, crying. I'm afraid I wasn't very supportive." He began fiddling with the rolladex, flipping through cards, not paying any attention to them.
Rachel knew he was reaching out and treading on this ice, "Emma understands. Look, I think it will blow over. I think there will be something new to talk about in a couple of weeks and this will be all behind us and we can laugh about it."
"You are saying to back off. Give her some space."
Rachel was calling from her room, but looked around making sure no one around in the halls to overhear her, "I think that's all you can do right now. Just don't give up on her. You have been the best thing that has ever happened to her and I don't care if she kills me for saying this."
Stanley felt a bit embarrassed. "I feel very similar, Ms. Jacobs."
"Please, call me Rachel."
He appreciated the sign of friendship, "Rachel, I don't want to give up on her."
"Well, that is a good sign. Now I have to work on Emma." Her gears were turning again, "She tends to want to do everything by the book. I told her you could see each other away from the beach...no one would know. But the thought of losing her job is too much for her. She needs time to work this out." She wasn't sure how much she should be saying to him, although there was plenty more to tell.
Stanley knew he could not force this issue, without hurting Emma, so he was careful in what he said, "Tell her I can give her that."
"I will, Mr. Jobson."
"Stanley, please." A smile hinted at the accusation her boss had described "Or could you calling me by my first name cause another scandal at Madison Elementary?"
Rachel laughed, "I quite like the thought of a scandal, Stanley."
He lightened up, "I bet you do." This thought actually made him chuckle slightly..
A thought popped into Rachel's head, she was looking out the window of her classroom and saw Emma heading back to her classroom, recess was nearly over. She seemed so sad, so alone, unlike the last few weeks where she had become a different person. Stanley had made Emma feel alive.
Rachel continued to keep the conversation light, "You know Stanley, I am surprised at both of you, if you're going to cause a scandal, don't you think you should have gone all out, give them something to really talk about. That would have been my approach anyhow."
Stanley was quiet on the other end and a little embarrassed. Rachel realized she might have overstepped her boundary. "Forgive me, Stan. Maybe that was a bit crass." She paused, "I just wish Emma could see a little clearer, maybe take a few chances....that what she wants is right on the end of her nose and she just can't see it."
"And what is it she wants, Rachel?" He was curious now.
"A happier life...some kind of a future... ," Rachel felt she needed to be honest, "She wants you, Stan...I have no doubt in my mind about that."
Stanley was quiet. Not knowing how to respond to that. He heard the bell ring in the background. And Rachel continued, "I got to to, Stan. Please feel free to call me, if you want to talk. Hang in there."
"Thanks. You've been a great help." He hung up, feeling a tad better but still things were a far ways from being perfect.
* * * * * *
So the weeks flew by. For Stanley keeping busy was a key to get him through this. He had not contacted Emma what so ever. He worked longer hours at the shop and spent his one day off, remodeling his house. When he bought the place he had wanted to add another bathroom off the master bedroom and sliding glass doors and a porch off his bedroom. He liked the idea of having more open space, his room seemed rather confining most of the time. Holly was getting invited over to friends houses on the weekend and now had a social life. He was more alone than ever.
* * * * * *
The school was preparing for the State testing, a very stressful time for all teachers. Emma felt she was getting through this better than she would have imagined. She made sure Holly wasn't singled out in class and that no parent would be able to complain about anything going on in her classroom. At home Gary had gotten Kyle a car, and now at 16, Kyle was ready to take on a weekend job to make some money. Emma was all for this. Melody was busy with her 8th grade science fair project on the differences in dogs paw prints, so the house was all go. It was chaotic, but there was little time to focus on the loneliness she had been feeling once again since she had stopped seeing Stanley. Nights were hard, the silence in the house once the kids had gone to bed, and Emma was alone.
* * * * * *
Kyle was not your average 16-year-old. Getting a job in his neighborhood at the local Jack 'N the Box or Seven-11 wasn't for him. He was only interested in working with computers. Even though he had never met him, Kyle figured that Stanley Jobson's shop would be a good place to start. He had done some checking on the Internet and although some of the information he wasn't' so sure his mom would be pleased with, he knew Stanley Jobson knew more about computers than anyone. And Kyle wanted to know everything about computers, so he headed to Pacific Beach and to "The Computer Man" to plead for a job of any kind.
When Kyle walked into the shop, Brent was at the counter with a customer so he browsed around, until he was free.
"Can I help you?"
Kyle had tried to look as presentable as possible for a 16 year old. He made an effort, tying his long hair back and wearing a button up the front shirt instead of his usual band T-shirts. He felt very confident.
"I'd like to talk to Stanley Jobson, if I could."
Brent kind of eyed him, what would this kid want with Stanley. It was a bit strange.
"Just a sec, I'll go get him."
Brent popped into the back where Stanley was going over a supply order, it was kind of slow today. "Hey, boss, there's a kid here to see you."
Stanley looked up perplexed, "A kid?"
"Well, a teenager...asked for you by name." Stanley got up, curious who this kid was and headed out to the shop floor with Brent. When he saw Kyle, he looked vaguely familiar, but couldn't place where he had seen him.
He held out his hand to the boy, "Hi, I'm Stanley Jobson."
Kyle took his hand and shook it, "I'm Kyle Faulkner." Stanley didn't recognize the name, then Kyle continued, "I'm Emma Heyward's son."
Stanley's eyes brightened, yes, he had seen him at the street fair when Emma and Kyle had had an argument. "Kyle...right,"
"I know it's weird, my mom took her maiden name when my Dad left. You don't know how many people think I am Kyle Heyward. Which would be okay by me, but I don't think Dad would like that much." Just by this comment, Stanley figured the relationship between father and son was possibly a bit strained..
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Emma talks..." he corrected himself since he hadn't seen her in weeks, "I mean talked about you a lot when we were working together at the school."
"She probably told you that all I do is eat, drink and sleep computers."
He nodded, "Hey, I understand...I was there once."
"I kind of figured, that's why I'm here." Stanley looked a bit confused. "I'm here for a job. And before you say, no....or give me some lame excuse, here me out. There are plenty of reasons you need me here."
Stanley smiled at him. He liked the kid. "Come on back and we can sit down and I can hear you out Kyle Faulkner."
Kyle gave a pleasing smirk, "Cool." They went into the back and Stanley offered him a seat across from his desk, he sat down, sat back in his chair and plopped his feet up on the desk. Kyle thought he was cool. This was the kind of guy he could work for.
"Okay, shoot. I'm all ears."
Kyle cleared his throat and didn't feel nervous at all. He had been thinking about all the things he was going to say for the last few days. "You see, you may think you don't need another body around here. But I could do all the crummy jobs that you and...." he waved towards the door.
Stanley added, "Brent.."
"yeah, Brent. Anyhow, as I was saying. I would do all the crummy jobs you guys don't want to do. Going out to pick up lunch, making coffee.. I make a great cup by the way...answering and screening phone calls, dusting and cleaning the shop. I can use a vacuum.."
"I can't see that you would get much out of doing those menial jobs, Kyle."
" I would get a chance to watch the best in action. That is you. I know that."
Stanley sat forward in his chair, looking at him surprised, "How do you know this?"
Kyle didn't want to say what he had managed to hack into. Classified information he had found. "I just know." He looked around the room wondering how he might get out of this without indulging what he actually knew. He had Stanley's attention now, that was for sure.
"Anyhow, I would be cheap. I can work all day Saturdays, after school I don't mind the drive. I have to work with computers, it's the only thing I want to do. And I could watch you work, which would mean more to me than anything. I'd do that on my own time as well, so you wouldn't even be paying me."
Stanley raised his eyebrows and stood up, Kyle's earlier comment about being the best had thrown him a bit. What did this kid know about him,if anything. He eyed Kyle cautiously, and then decided what could he possibly know. There was no way he could have gotten into those confidential files, ones that Roberts had assured him had no chance of resurfacing. he wouldn't mind an extra body actually. And Kyle obviously knew about computers, and was eager. Not a bad thing. He had liked that about Brent as well. And then there was Emma. He couldn't help but think he would have a connection to Emma again. Surely she would be pleased that he hired him.
"Okay, Kyle, be here Saturday morning at 9a.m. and Brent will show the ropes. I only work half day on Saturdays, but I'll be in in the afternoon. And I insist you get paid when you watch me, that is part of hands on learning, an asset in the workplace."
Kyle stood up and shook his hand, "I swear you won't regret it."
"I hope you're right."
"This is so cool, you don't even know. My mom is going to be amazed I found a job so fast."
"how is your mom by the way?"
Kyle noticed the uneasiness in his voice. He knew something had been going on, but he wasn't sure what. It now seemed fairly clear that it had something to do with Stanley Jobson.
"She's really busy. State testing at school. Kind of stressed." He realized he hadn't painted a very nice picture at all. "You should call her."
"No, that's not a good idea." He definitely wasn't going to get into this conversation with her son, "Look, Kyle, I have a lot of work to do, so I'll see you on Saturday."
Kyle didn't think twice about his reaction. He was in his own little world...just landing a job with the greatest computer hacker of all time...it was going to be brilliant.
* * * * * *
But at home, he wasn't prepared for his Mom's reaction to his new job. Emma had wondered where he had rushed off to after school, and then he was late showing up for dinner.
"Sorry, I didn't call, Mom." As he scooted into his chair at the kitchen table. They had only just sat down, so he wasn't that late. "I got stuck in traffic."
Melody looked up, expecting her mom to say something, but she didn't. Lately her mom had been really quite subdued. Not really seeming to care about much of anything. She still seemed stressed but it was different. It was hard to pinpoint.
"Well, at least your home."
"You're not even going to ask me where I've been or what I've been doing?" His fork strolled around the dinner plate, assembling the food in order.
"I trust you, Kyle." She said matter of factly, not really seeming to care.
"Okay, well, I'm going to tell you....I got a job today. I start on Saturday."
Her arm stopped in midway to the salt shaker. He now had her interest. "I didn't know you had started to look."
"I just started today."
She was surprised, "You got the first job you applied for? Kyle that is great. So give us some details."
"It's probably at McDonalds and he will have to wear one of those stupid uniforms." Melody laughed imagining her brother having to run around in one of those dorky hats.
He turned to his sister, "It's not at McDonalds. And I don't have to wear a uniform."
"Well, that rules out all fast food joints then. And Wal-Mart and Target...who else would hire you?" Images of an apron, dishsoap, tons of dirty dishes, and soap bubbles did not suit her brother either.
"Melody, enough. So tell us, Kyle."
He wasn't sure how his mom would react to this, but he really didn't care. He had made a decision, stuck with it and got the job. So he just blurted it out, "Stanley Jobson hired me."
Emma nearly choked on her water when she heard him. She glared at him, "Kyle you can't work there!" Her napkin had to catch the spill over.
Surprised by her reaction, he went on the defense. It took a lot of effort on his part to get this job. "Why not? I want to work with computers, Mom. I don't want some crappy job at a fast food joint, or bag boy at a grocery store."
Emma was becoming flustered at Stan's name even being mentioned. Words were flowing without thinking. "I don't care, you can call him and tell him you can't take the job."
"Mom, I'm not going to do that. What do you have against Stanley Jobson, anyhow?" He placed his utensils down, insisting on standing firm. "As I recall you were friends a short while ago."
"I have nothing against him, it's the drive and the gas....it's too far." One of those rules pulled from the mother's owner manual quickly came to mind.
"This is a great opportunity for me, Mom. He is an incredible computer technician. He knows everything. Think of what I will learn! I will be one step ahead of the game when it comes to working in this field." Kyle really didn't understand this. People drove miles to attend college and night classes just to learn this stuff. "I really thought you would be pleased that I have made a huge effort to land myself a job doing something I like." He got up from the table somewhat determined not to let this slip by. "I'm not passing this up. I'll call Dad. He'll back me up."
Emma was really surprised at the 'ex' situation being thrown into the lot. "Why are you bringing him up. He has never really cared about anything you've done for a long time."
"Mom, normally I agree with you, but I can't imagine him going on like you are. He would be glad for me. Why can't you be happy about this? Something that means a lot to me." There's more going on than just this job discussion Kyle realized. "You've been so selfish lately, Mom."
Emma was shocked, "What?"
"The only thing that matters to you is school." That's all Kyle had seen her throw her attention into lately, that and a box of Kleenex.
"I have the state testing coming up, Kyle. You know that."
"It's not just that." He wasn't sure what else he should say. He knew something had been going on with Stanley. She had been happy, and then overnight she had changed. Only caring about her lesson plans and the principals visit and the testing. Why was she acting like everything was normal, went it wasn't? It hadn't been normal for weeks. In frustration, he threw down his fork, and stood up, "I got a lot of homework to do." And he left the table.
She called after his retreating form, "Kyle" but he didn't turn around.
Melody looked over at her mom. She looked like she was going to cry. What was going on? This wasn't like her mom to hold things in.
Emma got up from the table and went to her room. Melody heard the door shut, and started picking up the plates. Kyle and Emma's food was barely touched.
* * * * * * *
The next day at school, Emma called Stanley during recess. He answered the phone instead of Brent and it threw her, hearing his voice again after so long. She closed her eyes, and took in the sound that it was like music to her ears.
"The Computer Man. This is Stanley Jobson, can I help you?"
"Stanley." she said timidly.
He knew exactly who it was and changed his position in his chair, ready to hang on to every word she spoke. Why was she calling? Could she possibly be ready to see him again? He was hopeful. "Emma, this is a surprise."
His voice actually sounded as if he was glad she called. And for a few brief seconds Emma wanted to tell him she missed him. But she didn't. She remembered her reasoning behind the call and Stanley was not prepared for what came next.
Too much pent up emotion was tearing at her. Unknowing how to handle all of the conflicting feelings, anger breaks to the front. "Are you? My god, Stanley, what were you thinking hiring Kyle?" she shouted across the phone line.
Stanley held the phone away from his ear, shocked by her outburst. He decided to remain calm, "Oh, I see...this is about Kyle."
"Yes, why else would I be calling you?" Pent up emotion followed frustration.
"Oh, I forgot, you don't want to see me anymore....as far as you are concerned I don't exist." he said sarcastically.
"That isn't how it is and you know it. And anyhow this has nothing to do with me." Frustration begat aggravation.
"Could've fooled me." he paused, "So I take it you aren't pleased with Kyle's job."
"Did you think I would be? He is 16. It's a 30 mile drive to your store." Her palm was sweating on the handle of the phone.
"It's a job, Emma. A job he wants to do. A job, I believe he will be good at." Brent peered around from the floor, hearing Stanley's raised voice. Stanley managed to smile at him. "You know, this is a conversation I'm not prepared to have over the phone. If you have issues with it, you want to discuss with me... you can talk to me to my face...you know where I am" He hung up the phone. Brent looked surprised.
"You hung up on her."
"It's not the first time." Stan was a little disgruntled with his eaves dropping this time. "Don't you have something to do, Brent. I thought there was that installation...you were working on."
"Working on it as we speak, boss." Brent knew to stay away in this case. And he wondered what had he been thinking hiring Emma's son.
Emma got off the phone and was fuming, Rachel stood in her doorway. "you must have been talking to Gary."
"I wish." The receiver slammed with uncertainty that it would remain in the cradle.
Rachel looked surprised.
"At least Gary never hung up on me. That man has horrible telephone manners."
Rachel still had no clue what she was talking about. "Who was that?"
"Stanley Jobson." She said frustrated as she began to pace the room. IT was the first time she had said his name in weeks.
Rachel tried to piece the part of the conversation she had heard with Stanley and it didn't make sense. She watched quietly as her friend slowed the tempo, stopped and look at her upset.
Emma noticed her confusion. "He hired Kyle. Do you believe it? He didn't even consult me. Just hired him!" Ranting substituted her pacing.
"I thought you wanted him to have a job?" Rachel was trying to make amends for the unusual phone call. "This sounds great, Emma. Kyle loves computers. What a great experience for him. That was really nice of Stanley."
"I knew you would be on his side." She sulked.
"I'm on Kyle's side, Emma." Rachel had come in at a bad time and was trying to help. She watched as Emma grabbed a few Kleenexes from the counter and dabbed at her eyes.
Feeling her world start to crumble even more, she continued pacing the floor. Rachel went over to her and took her by the arm to get her to stop. Emma was shaking. "You're a wreck. My god, Emma, it is amazing you haven't had a nervous breakdown." Rachel got her to sit down. She watched her friend's forehead fall on her hand. Her hair fell forward covering her face. Dry sobs began racking her body. "Take deep breaths. Calm down."
"He has no right, Rachel." She wasn't quite crying but it was near.
"Okay, maybe he should have called you. But you can't deny Kyle this opportunity. He will never forgive you, Emma."
Now Emma was crying. Rachel looked at the clock, recess was nearly over. "You are in no state to teach a class. Look, I will go talk to the principal. He will understand that you are stressed about the tests starting tomorrow. There are plenty of bodies around here that can sub for you. You need to go home." She had already encompassed arms around her shoulder. Rachel wanted to say so much more. This was much more than Kyle's job obviously.
"I want to go home." Was muffled behind the mound of Kleenex.
"Good. Stay put and I will go make arrangements, pronto."
Emma sat in the child's desk and continued to cry. Thinking of Stanley. Why did it have to be this way? She shouldn't have to be so nasty. Tears of remorse were falling.
Rachel came back and grabbed Emma's jacket and purse, "All sorted. Come on, I'll walk you to your car." Emma seemed in a daze and didn't speak. Rachel was starting to worry about her. She had been acting like nothing had happened and it obviously had caught up with her. When she got in the car, Rachel leaned down to the window, "I think this is more than just Kyle, Em."
"What do you mean?" She had been fumbling the keys to the ignition and looked up through teary eyes.
"I know you miss him."
"Who?"
"Stanley."
There was that name again. Emma looked around nervously expecting Meg to pop up, or the principal. She tried blinking back tears.
"You need to do something about it. Before it drives you crazy. I can't stand seeing you like this."
Emma had no idea what she could do.
* * * * * * *
She drove her car to Grindz, the coffee shop directly across the street from Stanley's shop. She needed to see Stanley, but she needed to get a hold of herself first. So she ordered a coffee and sat at the back of the shop, sorting out what she needed to say to him. Rachel was right, she missed him. She was going crazy thinking about him constantly. She had no idea of the time, her thoughts were elsewhere....
Brent had noticed her car across the street at Grindz. It had been there nearly an hour. That was weird. Stanley had been in back working on a computer and when he came out it was close to noon, "Are you going to get lunch today, or is it my turn?" He said, as he approached Brent, who was staring out the window. Stanley looked at him oddly, "What are you looking at?" Brent moved away from the window quickly. He didn't want to get involved in whatever was going on between the two of them.
"Nothing." Stanley looked towards the coffee shop and saw Emma's car. He looked at Brent suspiciously.
"How long as she been there?"
"How would I know. Do you think I have been keeping tabs on her?"
Stan knew him to well, "Yes."
"An hour or so."
Stanley stood and looked out the window towards her car, "That's odd, she should be in school."
"So are you going to go see her?"
"Not on your life. She has to make the effort to see me." He was still a little sore about the phone call. "And obviously she is thinking about it or otherwise she wouldn't be across the street."
Brent shook his head, "You don't have a clue what you're doing." He picked up his keys, "I'll get lunch, is Chinese okay?"
He started to walk out of the shop, "What do you mean by that?"
"I am not saying a word." Shaking his head as he walked out into the parking lot.
* * * * * *
Emma looked at the clock and couldn't believe it was already 12:30. She stood up and made her way to the parking lot, trying to get the nerve up to walk across the street. Brent was gone, only Stan's suburban was in the parking lot. She got in her car and drove across the street, it was time to face the fire.
When she opened the door, the bell rang, and Stanley strolled onto the shop floor, not at all surprised to see her. She missed the looks that once passed between them. It was not there. Stanley stood so tall and was so sure of himself that Emma felt powerless in his presence. She was about to speak when the shop door opened again and a tall blonde in heels and a Versace suit confidently walked up to the counter.
"Well, hello, Stanley, always a pleasure to see you." She casually flirted. Looking around the room she totally ignored Emma. "And where is the other incredibly handsome man of your employ?"
Stanley smiled at her. Emma noticed it was genuine. She couldn't even get him to smile at her.
"Hey, Monique." He retrieved the paperwork. "Brent is out getting lunch."
"Well, you tell him I missed him, but I am sure your service will be equally as pleasing." Her designer sunglasses had been removed but she had casually used them as a teething ring while flinging conversation towards the owner of the shop.
Stanley nervously chuckled. "Well, Brent just finished up your PC, actually. I'll go grab it." He turned to Emma. "Don't go anywhere." He spoke to her like she was a child.
Both manicured hands tapped the counter while Monique's eyes took in the interior idly, then turned to Emma to rake in her features from top to bottom as if sizing up a leg of lamb.
Emma felt like a child next to her. Wearing a denim skirt, a striped T-shirt and tennis shoes....next to this gorgeous woman dressed to the hilt. Emma smiled but the woman turned around, waiting for Stanley's return. Emma wanted to crawl in a hole.
Stanley brought the computer out and laid it on the counter while he totaled the bill. Monique leaned into the counter and with both hands laced to support her chin she soaked in the scenery of Stan. A sly smile stole across her face as her eyes held appreciation.
Emma couldn't hear their conversation but she heard giggling express another flirtatious remark. Monique seemed quite practiced. She wrote a check. And Stanley offered to take it to her car for her. "How can I refuse? What woman wouldn't want to see you lift just about anything?"
Emma watched them walk out the door and watched as Stanley loaded the computer into her convertible. Brand new. She continued flirting with him, it was obvious. And why shouldn't she? He was attractive and well, Stanley would surely be attracted to her, too. What man wouldn't be? One thing for sure, she had no access baggage...like Emma had. It must be a breath of fresh air having a woman like that flirt with you.Now she began to feel sorry for herself.
Stanley looked up and saw her watching them. Emma stood back and went to the other side of the shop where she thumbed through a computer catalogue. Stanley walked back in.
"Sorry about that. I think you were going to say something when Monique walked in and I got sidetracked."
"Sidetracked?" she said under her breath, "is that what you call that?" The catalog still held her interest.
"What was that you said?"
"Nothing."
He noticed her expression. She was jealous. "So I guess I can assume you are here to talk about Kyle. I am surprised that you aren't at school."
"I went home sick."
"You don't look sick. What's wrong?" There was now a bit of concern in his voice. He began to walk toward her.
"The state testing starts tomorrow, I have a major headache that's all. I'm sure it's just the stress of the tests."
"Do you want to have a seat in back?" He was being civil.
She nodded and surprised herself that she was being civil as well. They went to the back and he pulled out a chair for her. "So, have you come to your senses about Kyle's job here?"
She didn't like the way he worded that and right away it rubbed her the wrong way. "I'm not happy about the way you handled it. I think you should have consulted with me." Friction was evident in her voice. " I'm sure if the tables were turned and I was hiring Holly, well...you would have wanted me to talk it over with you."
"No, I don't think I would've. I know you. I know Holly would be fine working with you. Just like you should know Kyle would be fine working here with me." His answer was without hesitation. "I would think you would be pleased that he is working for someone you know. Or at least that's what I assumed."
"You assumed a lot of things." She paused briefly, "If you care anything about me, Stanley, you'll call him and tell him you changed your mind."
He was offended by that comment, "I do care about you, Emma. But I won't do anything of the kind. Kyle wants to work here. He had a speech prepared to get me to hire him. He's smart, eager and enthusiastic. Just the kind of person I like having around."
"Since when were you even looking for help?" The proverbial grabbing at straws was taking effect.
"I wasn't. But he sold me. And this way, I can free myself up on Saturdays."
She was quiet thinking about what he had been or wanted to be doing on Saturdays. Monique popped into her mind.
Stanley noticed her envious look. For some reason he felt he had to explain himself. "I've been working on my house, adding a bathroom and a porch off the master bedroom. And I want to spend more time with Holly."
She felt stupid that she even thought such a thing, "That's understandable."
"Emma, I won't work him to the bone. I'm flexible with his school schedule and I know he needs to do homework after school. I won't let this job effect his school work."
"You don't know Kyle. This will consume him working with computers. I can't get him to get away from the one at home and now he'll be getting paid to work with them. How could he possibly be interested in his schoolwork or even going to college after working with you."
"I think you should give him the benefit of the doubt, Emma." He was trying to stay matter of fact.
"He's not your son, Stanley." she realized she had raised her voice.
That really cut to the chase. "Where did that come from? God, Emma, all I did was help the kid out and give him a job."
She had promised herself she wouldn't get upset and now she was doing it. She stood up and began pacing the floor.
Stan had been here before, the day she told him she couldn't see him anymore. Watching her movements, the body language began to relay a different message why she was here. Realization began to sink in. "Maybe there's something else you want to say to me."
Emma knew what he was on about, and didn't want to talk about it. "I am here to talk about Kyle. And you don't seem to be looking at this situation the same way I am."
Stanley seemed disappointed. He was hoping she could talk about them.
"I'm listening." He waited for her to speak.
She turned slowly towards him and he was looking at her, "What will they say at school?...my school, when they see him working here? Can't you see this will only make matters worse?"
"As far as I can see, that bit of gossip died as soon as it rose." His voice was calmer knowing what he was really up against. "Emma no one is talking about us. Rachel says it's old news."
Emma had no idea Rachel had been talking to him, "Rachel? You've been talking to Rachel, too?" Her mind started to race with thoughts she had confided in Rachel that now Stanley could possibly be aware of.
"Yes, she's a friend. I'm entitled to friends, aren't I?" Why was she behaving like this, being jealous of Rachel? It was pointless.
She didn't answer him. It upset her that he wasn't falling apart. That everything seemed so right for him...without her. "It's so easy for you isn't it?"
"What?"
"Everything." She couldn't seem to keep her thoughts clear. Every time she looked at him, she became flustered and nervous. The previous pacing continued while outlining the workroom, arms waving frantically. "Your little world is perfect, isn't it? You have a great job and a home and a beautiful daughter. Friends...plenty of them. Everyone likes you. Everyone wants to be around you...Rachel, and now Kyle. It must be great being so popular." Punctuated by thrusts of the arms, she sounded bitter.
Once again she was off on a tangent and he had no idea where it came from or where it was going. "You don't know the first thing about my world, Emma. What it's been like for me." It had taken a long time for him to grasp his fortunate chance to start over, where he came from, what hole he had nearly been buried in by his former ex. "You've been so absorbed in your own problems. You need to get a grip on reality....stop giving a fuck what your damn principal thinks for starters...and you aren't the first woman that has been left by a man....it happens." The response came out a little too heated but it was the truth. After saying this, he felt that maybe he had stepped over the line. Could she take it?
She stood and glared at him briefly, turning away holding back tears. She was not going to cry again.
It was time to clear the table. "I'm not carrying on with Rachel or Monique or anyone for your information...so let's drop the jealousy while we are at it." It had to be said. "And for god's sake you have to let Kyle go. He'll only turn against you if you keep treating him as if he were a child."
She held back tears as she turned away from him. It was there and then she felt she had blown it. She was an emotional wreck and now had allowed Stanley to see it in full force. How could he ever want anything to do with her after today? The floor tile was getting another path worn.
Emma's behavior frightened him. He had never seen her like this. She was pacing the floor, flaying her arms every which way...on the verge of tears. He could take it no longer. Getting out of his chair he moved towards her and grabbed both of her wrists in one swoop of his left hand. They were now locked into his fist. Firmly he pulled her up snug against him. She struggled. "Let go of me." The protest was weak. Her body did not agree.
Towering over her, firm and solid, "Emma. you have to stop this." His grasp was tight, but not uncomfortably. She backed up struggling against him, with no success, running into the metal shelve unit against the wall, knocking over a stack of discs. They scattered to the floor and she looked down, hoping that Stanley would let go and pick them up. But he didn't even flinch. He centered his gaze and did not take his eyes off her. His body now pressed against hers, his face inches away. His body heat, the clasp of his fingers around her wrists, his intense gaze.... it was all too much for her. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, realizing it had become irregular. She had to be in control. She could do this, she could be in control. But then his free hand went to her cheek. His gentle touch slowly opened her eyes. Stanley gazed into the crystal blues and the desire he had been holding back for weeks resurfaced, only, this time, with a vengeance. He was desperate for her that moment. Her struggling now ceased and she felt herself gasp as his hand sensually caressed the contour her face.
She tried to speak. A finger touched softly over her lips, outlining them, as a quieting gesture. A whispered response came close to her ear, "Shhhhh. Emma." He was still grasping her hands with his, afraid she would push him away if he let go. He began to speak in a quiet, soothing voice, "We both know this isn't about Kyle, Emma."
Her eyes closed, not wanting to look at him. Faces were in such close proximity to each other. It was incredibly erotic. He continued to stroke her face and play with her hair that tumbled around her face.
His eyes also wafted shut, inhaling her intoxicating aroma. Gently brushing his lips against her neck, he lay a blind trail. Her body trembled as lips began moving up the side of her neck, caressing her ear lobe. Breath was moist on her skin, he continued moving across her cheek towards the edge of her mouth.
To Emma, an erotic response from her body was almost unheard of. Breasts that were petite and still held themselves well, suckled her children as infants. This resulted in her most embarrassing aspect of how unusually enlarged the nipples extended when erect, rarely only when enticed.
Stanley was an incredible enticer. His touch and the feeling of her own excited body flushed her cheeks crimson. Arms that were folded up and over her chest prevented Stan from feeling the full effect he had on her. Control was no longer an option that her body gave her.
* * * * * *
Brent pulled his VW bug into the parking lot and saw Emma's RAV 4 parked next to the Suburban. So, Emma had made the effort Stan was waiting for. He wondered what was going on in there. He hated to barge in on them but he was curious and incredibly hungry. The Stanley and Emma saga had become intriguing to say the least. Brent had never known a relationship to come so far and then have various stumbling blocks thrown in it's way, the way theirs had. It had obviously been rough on both of them. He thought he could probably sneak in the back without
them even noticing. That was his best bet. He fumbled for the backdoor key on his key ring, and in his other hand juggled the bag of Chinese food.
The door opened quietly but Brent was not prepared for the sight that lay before him. He stood in shock, watching Stanley in a heated moment. They hadn't heard the door open. Emma's face was one of pure rapture and her shirt revealed extensive and intense interest. And Stan wasn't even touching her there. Brent had to admit the whole scenario turned him on more than slightly. He had forgotten about the door behind him, caught up in observing the excitement. It slammed shut just as Stan's lips were about to close over Emma's.
Stanley jumped and his hand freed hers. Emma, being startled once again, backed up. Her now free hands managed to fling backwards and knock another stack of discs to the ground in a crash.
Brent stood planted in the spot.
Turning towards the noise, Stanley saw Brent with the bag of food nervously smiling.
Brent tried to salvage his untimely entrance. "Foods here." This was not good.
Stan's look of frustration was obvious. Emma nervously knelt down and began to pick up the discs scattered at her feet. Stanley knelt down next to her and put his hand over hers, "You don't have to do that." She looked at him and he saw the passion behind her eyes, the glow on her face. God, if only Brent hadn't walked in. Always one-step forward, two steps back.
She got up and grabbed her purse wanting to quickly depart.
Unsure what to do next, Brent began to babble. "I bet you guys are hungry." He realized it wasn't the best choice of words. And Stanley looked at him, raising his eyebrows in aggravation. Brent continued, "There's plenty of food, Emma. Your welcome to stay."
She fumbled in her purse for her keys. "I couldn't' possibly. I have a headache. I just want to go home and lie down. Thanks anyhow, Brent. That was sweet of you to ask." Her skin was still flushed an exasperated pink
Stanley had managed to pick up the discs, stood up, and placed them on the shelf. Emma and he exchanged glances, accepting the other's response, but nothing was said. She turned to walk out the front of the shop and Stanley followed her.
When she got to the front door, Stanley spoke her name. "Emma."
She turned. "I shouldn't have come." She looked down at her feet trying to find something to say on a positive note. "You're right. I need to let go of Kyle. He'll be good here with you and Brent. I know he'll love it and I was wrong in trying to interfere." She was calm but Stanley knew what had just happened between them was playing heavily on her mind. She once again needed some time to sort out where she wanted this to lead.
Hand pushing the front door, she walked out. Glancing at him, her eyes saying much more than she realized.
Stanley sighed as he watched her car leave the parking lot and headed into the backroom. Seeing Brent had the food cartons laid out on his desk and was already digging in. "Well, you're hungry obviously."
"Not as hungry as you, I'm sure." Once again, Brent spoke without thinking.
A glare was cast from Stanley. He walked over to the repair counter and started working on a computer.
"Aren't you going to eat?"
"Lost my appetite, the minute you walked in." He said sarcastically. A small wrench bore the brute of his grip. A screw twisted off.
"Hey, I'm sorry. How was I to know the two of you were...? well, you know... anyhow, it was lucky I showed up, really."
Setting the tools down he turned to him, "How so?"
"Any second later and you would have had her on the desk.... Come on, Stanley, that isn't how you want it to be."
He actually began to lighten up and laughed at the thought. He had to admit it had crossed his mind. He moved over to the desk and leaned over picking up a handful of crispy noodles, then pulled a chair up and grabbed a pair of chopsticks. "I doubt that would have happened."
Brent was glad to see him smiling, "She's pretty hot, Stan."
Stanley blushed wondering what possibly Brent saw between them.
"And....whew..."he made a gesture of the heat with his hand sweeping over his forehead, "I can still feel the electricity in the air...god, man, the sparks were flying off both of you." He continued eating like it was nothing, which Stan found amazing. To be young and 21, he thought. Life would be so easy.
Stanley was quiet and found he was hungrier than he thought as he began to dig into some fried rice and lemon chicken. Brent had been so right about one thing, she was hot. He had never felt this with any woman before, this driving desire and passion that passed through his whole body every time she was in the room.
Brent saw the look in his eyes, "You have got it so bad, man. Don't you think it's time the two of you sorted this out? You got chemistry..for god's sake, Stan... just take her to bed...you know it's what both of you want."
He really didn't want to go into details of his private life. He knew Brent wouldn't shut about it either."She's not ready." Shooting daggers across the desk reinforced that he didn't want to continue this discussion, but Brent paid no mind.
"From where I stood, man, she was so ready." Reflecting back to his girlfriend, he wished he could produce that type of reaction with her at the drop of a hat.
Stanley looked up from his food, contemplating what Brent had seen. Stan had felt it too. She seemed ready but she was still holding back. He knew there were a lot of things weighing heavily on her mind that he couldn't possibly truly understand. But after this afternoon, Stanley knew that it was time he did something. He couldn't stand back any longer.
"
"No." Brent noticed she didn't look as happy as usual, maybe a bad day at school.
"I'll go get him." And he disappeared into the backroom.
Those few seconds he was gone, Emma paced around the floor of the shop. There were various computers set up and accessories on shelves, which she knew nothing about. She was starting to feel nervous and the palms of her hands felt sweaty.
Stanley came out of the backroom with an extra bounce in his step. "This is a surprise." He looked pleased to see her as a smile lit up his features. Then he noticed her expression was one of a reluctant messenger. He moved towards her, putting his arm around her waist, "Something's happened...Emma what is it?"
She noticed Brent looking at them both, and Stanley noticed her apprehension to speak, "We can go in my office. Come on back." He gave her a little push as she walked past Brent into the backroom. Turning to Brent, "I don't want to be disturbed."
"Righty-O, boss, no worries."
He rarely used the office, preferring more open space...ever since his time in prison this had been the case. And it was apparent as they walked in. The desk was immaculate, in fact there was not one thing on it that gave the impression someone actually worked there...he preferred the work area in the backroom where he could spread out and see the comings and goings of customers in the shop. He shut the door, pulling up a chair for Emma and he sat on the edge of the desk leaning towards her, taking hold of her hand,
"It can't be that bad." He tried to make light of it, and she pulled her hand away from him. He was startled. "I guess it is that bad."
She stood up and turned her back towards him not wanting to face him, "They are talking about us." There wasn't much room to pace with.
He looked a bit confused, "Who?"
"The whole school. A parent has complained."
"I am not following you. I can't understand what anyone would have to complain about." This was a little perplexing.
"My inappropriate behavior."
"I need more information here, Emma...as far as I know, there has been no inappropriate behavior." His arms crossed in front of his chest.
She began to get agitated at the whole ludicrous situation. Both arms rose in a V formation above her head to vent. "Well, that is not how they see it. You are a parent, and your child is a student in my classroom..." Both arms came to her side with a double soft plop. She kept speeding up, "And something is obviously going on and the kids saw you take my hand the other day..." Now both hands were presented out to the front palms up, still venting. "And Christina's mother swears that we are making bedroom eyes in front of the students and Mr. Henderson says it has to stop." Double dipped soft plop.
He stood up and went over to her, taking her by the shoulder, bringing her attention to his face. "Okay, okay,. slow down...someone complained to the principal?" He smiled at the thought of bedroom eyes, was that what they were? Then shook that thought out of his mind.
".That I am playing favorites." She finished, quite exasperated. ". that I treat Holly different than the other kids, and that something is going on between us."
He looked into her eyes, "Well, is it?"
"Is it what?" she was surprised by this comment.
"Is something going on between us?"
She paused at the frankness of the question. "Stanley, this is serious. I could lose my job."
"You didn't answer my question."
"I don't know" she searched his eyes then they fell down to her feet, feeling the room getting incredibly hot and stuffy. She was so ashamed of her next words "I can't see you anymore."
He felt a bit angry by this last comment, "Now wait a minute, your principal has every right to reprimand you for something happening in front of your students, but outside of the classroom, he has no control of what you do, Emma."
Her feet still held her gaze. This was a very unwanted task but she continued on. "A lot of your clientele have kids at the school, as well as your neighbors. I can't see you outside of school either. He made that perfectly clear."
"This is ridiculous." He walked away from her and around the other side of the desk, in the small office. He sat down in the chair and clasped his fingers together, tightly on the desk. Anger was broiling just under the surface. He hesitated then looked up. "Do you want to see me?"
She hesitated, "Yes, but...."
"Then that's all that's important. Fuck, your principal." Emma had never seen Stanley so upset.
"I can't lose this job."
"So basically it's me or the job."
"No, it's not like that."
"I'll go talk to him. He has no right."
Emma could see the disastrous results of that action. "Stanley, you can't do that. Holly is doing so well right now. It will only make matters worse."
"So I am suppose to sit back and let this guy control my personal life? I don't think so, Emma. And you shouldn't stand for it either. It's none of his god damn business what either one of us do outside of his precious little school."
Emma had never seen him so upset and she wasn't sure how to react to him. The fact that he cared for her enough to fight seemed a gallant gesture but at the same time, she didn't like conflicts. And Stanley was obviously willing and able to cause one over this matter. She tried to organize her thoughts. What to say, what to do. No matter what, it wouldn't be right. She knew that. She couldn't risk her job, not at this time.
Stanley looked across the table at her and saw her deep in thought. It didn't look good.
"Stanley...I just feel for now, that we should slow down."
"I believe we were already taking that path, Emma." a little irritated. He was not ready for what might be coming.
"I know...what I mean is not seeing each other for awhile, wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing."
He looked up surprised, "For whom? I want to see you, Emma."
"It's only temporary."
Those words rang an empty hollowness within his heart. His desire for this lady grew daily. It was not a future he was willing to embrace even for a short duration. "Am I supposed to wait until summer, when Holly is out of your class? Because I don't know if I can do that." His voice raised above his normal vocals.
"I didn't say that. Stop yelling at me. You seem to think that you are the only one that this is effecting. But I will tell you something Stanley Jobson, this effects me more than you." Unknown to them, Meg's domino effect was ripping through their closeness that had grown over the months. "And you could at least be a little bit understanding about my position. I have only been working since September, if something happens to me at this job, it will be in my records and I don't think you realize how hard it will be for me to get another job." She had said enough, she just wanted to go home. She felt he had no idea how humiliating it would be for her to loose this job. Her children. her life. A lot depended on her. That simple thought struck a raw nerve. What little she had accomplished was teetering in the balance. It is so easy for men to demand this and want for that. They had it so much easier in the financial world. A simple lame waggle of the finger in her face and out the door by someone's manipulation of the facts went her whole pathetic life as she new it.
It was more than she could bear.
With tears seeping, she picked up the pieces of her torn feelings for this man and exited as hastily as she could, stage left.
Stan sat there staring at an empty chair. He couldn't believe what she had forced herself to do and come tell him.
After she left Stanley walked slowly out to the floor where Brent had a look of bewilderment on his face, he looked at Stanley who looked devastated. This guy had been so happy, the last few days. Emma had put a spark into his life and after Friday night, it really seemed that something was happening, but she had left the shop crying and now Stanley's look confirmed that whatever happened in the backroom wasn't good.
"Hey, Stan, is she okay?"
He shook his head, "No, I don't think she is."
"Then go after her, man. Don't let her leave in that state."
Stanley didn't budge and Brent found it odd. He was the type to make things right. He watched her drive off from the front window and then backed off, passing Brent and went into the back and finished the repair he had started earlier.
* * * * * * *
Emma got on with her life, the minute she got home. There were bills to pay and kids to feed. She had promised Melody they could go shopping after dinner. Kyle was going on and on about the car his dad was going to get him for his 16th birthday...only a few weeks away ,at the dinner table. Emma tried to seem interested the best she could. Kyle sensed something was up after a few moments, but his mom was hiding it. Probably for Melody's sake. She did that a lot. Emma knew this was right. She had to raise her kids, keep her job, and even though the thought of possibly losing Stanley devastated her, she had to get her priorities right. She just wanted to put this whole day behind her.
* * * * * * * *
Tuesday morning, Stanley felt like shit. He hadnt' slept and he kept replaying the words she had said..."I can't see you anymore." After Friday night, he had been in such high spirits. Everything seemed to be falling into place. Now it felt like he had been hit head on by a truck, and pulling himself together after such a impact, wasn't going to be an easy task But for Holly's sake, life had to go on. He headed out towards the kitchen and Holly was pouring him his coffee. She handed it to him, as he managed one of his half smiles and kissed the top of her head. She knew right away he was not in a good mood.
"Dad, are you okay?"
He sat down on the bar stool and took a sip of the coffee. Wondering how he was going to make it through the day in his state, then looked up and put on the face for Holly, "Sure, baby, why do you ask?"
"You just seem different today."
"I had a bad night's sleep. I'll be fine." He looked at the clock on the microwave, "The bus will be here soon, you better get your stuff together."
She picked up her lunchbox on the counter, "I'm coming by the shop today, that's okay right?" He was deep in thought and hadn't heard her, staring off into the distance.
"Dad?" She snapped her fingers in front of him.
"What?" once again smiling at her.
"Maybe you need a day off. I think you're working to hard." He nodded, took another sip of coffee and wished he could go back to bed.
"That's probably it."
"So are you going to take a day off?" she questioned him.
"I wasn't thinking about it..."
"Well, you should. We could take the motor home away for a weekend." She became animated and excited as she climbed up on the bar stool next to him, " I"ve got an even better idea, we could ask Emma and her kids to go with us. Dad that would be so much fun, don't you think."
How was he going to tell Holly? She was so happy with the prospect of her Dad and Emma dating. And now was already planning family camping trips. He was glad when he heard the horn of the bus outside, "You're going to miss your bus." He got up and grabbed her backpack off the coat rack by the front door and handed it to her, leaning over and kissing her cheek. "Now run along." He gave her a pat on the bottom.
She turned around at the door, "Can I ask her if she'd like to go camping with us sometime?"
Stanley didn't mean to raise his voice, but the idea of Holly mentioning him at all to her, put him on edge, "No, definitely not."
"But Dad...:"
The bus horn beeped again, "Go on now." He pushed her out the door and she reluctantly made her way to the bus, turning and looking at him every step of the way, wondering what had happened yesterday to make her dad in such a bad mood.
* * * * *
Stanley got to the shop before Brent and today was glad to have the peace and quiet. Brent was usually in his face about something and today Stanley didn't want to talk about much of anything. He was glad of the work load he had for the day. It would keep him busy and his mind off Emma...although he knew that was highly unlikely. He put on his headphones and started on a motherboard that needed some work on. It was a more detailed job and it was just what Stanley needed at this time....but after only a few minutes of Bruce Springsteen blaring in his ears, he became irritable and couldn't concentrate. He tore the headphones off his ears and looked down at the board. Damn, he couldn't do this. What was wrong with him? He stood up and walked over to the desk he occupied in the center of the room and flicked through his roll a dex. He found M...and Holly's school number. He took the card off the file and fingered it, turning it over and over....He wanted to call her. Just leave a voice mail. Probably not the wisest choices, then it came to him. He could call Rachel....Jacobs wasnt' it? She might be able to give him some answers. He sat down at the desk and dialed the number. It kicked into the system and he had to press 2 and the pound key to get the teachers voice mail listings. He then punched in Rachels and waited to hear the message...."This is Rachel Jacobs...please leave a message at the tone and I will get back to you as soon as I can. Have a great day." He heard the tone and hesitated slightly, "Ms. Jacobs, this is Stanley Jobson.....could you call me back at the shop as soon as you can." He then hung up. He realized he hadn't left a number, damn...he redialed and left a number.
He felt all morning he was waiting for the phone to ring, Brent noticed his anxiety but left him to finish up the motherboard job. Staying far away. He had now realized Stanley wasn't a nice person to be around when he was upset. This was rare, mind you. But the guy, had a temper.
At 10:30 the phone rang and Stanley took it in his office, closing the door. "Ms. Jacobs, thanks for calling me back."
"Mr. Jobson, I don't know if I can help..."
"You know what's happened right?"
"Yeah, I do. And I think it stinks."
"Not half as much as I do." he paused, "Look, I just need to know if she's okay. She left here yesterday, crying. I'm afraid I wasn't very supportive." He began fiddling with the rolladex, flipping through cards, not paying any attention to them.
Rachel knew he was reaching out and treading on this ice, "Emma understands. Look, I think it will blow over. I think there will be something new to talk about in a couple of weeks and this will be all behind us and we can laugh about it."
"You are saying to back off. Give her some space."
Rachel was calling from her room, but looked around making sure no one around in the halls to overhear her, "I think that's all you can do right now. Just don't give up on her. You have been the best thing that has ever happened to her and I don't care if she kills me for saying this."
Stanley felt a bit embarrassed. "I feel very similar, Ms. Jacobs."
"Please, call me Rachel."
He appreciated the sign of friendship, "Rachel, I don't want to give up on her."
"Well, that is a good sign. Now I have to work on Emma." Her gears were turning again, "She tends to want to do everything by the book. I told her you could see each other away from the beach...no one would know. But the thought of losing her job is too much for her. She needs time to work this out." She wasn't sure how much she should be saying to him, although there was plenty more to tell.
Stanley knew he could not force this issue, without hurting Emma, so he was careful in what he said, "Tell her I can give her that."
"I will, Mr. Jobson."
"Stanley, please." A smile hinted at the accusation her boss had described "Or could you calling me by my first name cause another scandal at Madison Elementary?"
Rachel laughed, "I quite like the thought of a scandal, Stanley."
He lightened up, "I bet you do." This thought actually made him chuckle slightly..
A thought popped into Rachel's head, she was looking out the window of her classroom and saw Emma heading back to her classroom, recess was nearly over. She seemed so sad, so alone, unlike the last few weeks where she had become a different person. Stanley had made Emma feel alive.
Rachel continued to keep the conversation light, "You know Stanley, I am surprised at both of you, if you're going to cause a scandal, don't you think you should have gone all out, give them something to really talk about. That would have been my approach anyhow."
Stanley was quiet on the other end and a little embarrassed. Rachel realized she might have overstepped her boundary. "Forgive me, Stan. Maybe that was a bit crass." She paused, "I just wish Emma could see a little clearer, maybe take a few chances....that what she wants is right on the end of her nose and she just can't see it."
"And what is it she wants, Rachel?" He was curious now.
"A happier life...some kind of a future... ," Rachel felt she needed to be honest, "She wants you, Stan...I have no doubt in my mind about that."
Stanley was quiet. Not knowing how to respond to that. He heard the bell ring in the background. And Rachel continued, "I got to to, Stan. Please feel free to call me, if you want to talk. Hang in there."
"Thanks. You've been a great help." He hung up, feeling a tad better but still things were a far ways from being perfect.
* * * * * *
So the weeks flew by. For Stanley keeping busy was a key to get him through this. He had not contacted Emma what so ever. He worked longer hours at the shop and spent his one day off, remodeling his house. When he bought the place he had wanted to add another bathroom off the master bedroom and sliding glass doors and a porch off his bedroom. He liked the idea of having more open space, his room seemed rather confining most of the time. Holly was getting invited over to friends houses on the weekend and now had a social life. He was more alone than ever.
* * * * * *
The school was preparing for the State testing, a very stressful time for all teachers. Emma felt she was getting through this better than she would have imagined. She made sure Holly wasn't singled out in class and that no parent would be able to complain about anything going on in her classroom. At home Gary had gotten Kyle a car, and now at 16, Kyle was ready to take on a weekend job to make some money. Emma was all for this. Melody was busy with her 8th grade science fair project on the differences in dogs paw prints, so the house was all go. It was chaotic, but there was little time to focus on the loneliness she had been feeling once again since she had stopped seeing Stanley. Nights were hard, the silence in the house once the kids had gone to bed, and Emma was alone.
* * * * * *
Kyle was not your average 16-year-old. Getting a job in his neighborhood at the local Jack 'N the Box or Seven-11 wasn't for him. He was only interested in working with computers. Even though he had never met him, Kyle figured that Stanley Jobson's shop would be a good place to start. He had done some checking on the Internet and although some of the information he wasn't' so sure his mom would be pleased with, he knew Stanley Jobson knew more about computers than anyone. And Kyle wanted to know everything about computers, so he headed to Pacific Beach and to "The Computer Man" to plead for a job of any kind.
When Kyle walked into the shop, Brent was at the counter with a customer so he browsed around, until he was free.
"Can I help you?"
Kyle had tried to look as presentable as possible for a 16 year old. He made an effort, tying his long hair back and wearing a button up the front shirt instead of his usual band T-shirts. He felt very confident.
"I'd like to talk to Stanley Jobson, if I could."
Brent kind of eyed him, what would this kid want with Stanley. It was a bit strange.
"Just a sec, I'll go get him."
Brent popped into the back where Stanley was going over a supply order, it was kind of slow today. "Hey, boss, there's a kid here to see you."
Stanley looked up perplexed, "A kid?"
"Well, a teenager...asked for you by name." Stanley got up, curious who this kid was and headed out to the shop floor with Brent. When he saw Kyle, he looked vaguely familiar, but couldn't place where he had seen him.
He held out his hand to the boy, "Hi, I'm Stanley Jobson."
Kyle took his hand and shook it, "I'm Kyle Faulkner." Stanley didn't recognize the name, then Kyle continued, "I'm Emma Heyward's son."
Stanley's eyes brightened, yes, he had seen him at the street fair when Emma and Kyle had had an argument. "Kyle...right,"
"I know it's weird, my mom took her maiden name when my Dad left. You don't know how many people think I am Kyle Heyward. Which would be okay by me, but I don't think Dad would like that much." Just by this comment, Stanley figured the relationship between father and son was possibly a bit strained..
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Emma talks..." he corrected himself since he hadn't seen her in weeks, "I mean talked about you a lot when we were working together at the school."
"She probably told you that all I do is eat, drink and sleep computers."
He nodded, "Hey, I understand...I was there once."
"I kind of figured, that's why I'm here." Stanley looked a bit confused. "I'm here for a job. And before you say, no....or give me some lame excuse, here me out. There are plenty of reasons you need me here."
Stanley smiled at him. He liked the kid. "Come on back and we can sit down and I can hear you out Kyle Faulkner."
Kyle gave a pleasing smirk, "Cool." They went into the back and Stanley offered him a seat across from his desk, he sat down, sat back in his chair and plopped his feet up on the desk. Kyle thought he was cool. This was the kind of guy he could work for.
"Okay, shoot. I'm all ears."
Kyle cleared his throat and didn't feel nervous at all. He had been thinking about all the things he was going to say for the last few days. "You see, you may think you don't need another body around here. But I could do all the crummy jobs that you and...." he waved towards the door.
Stanley added, "Brent.."
"yeah, Brent. Anyhow, as I was saying. I would do all the crummy jobs you guys don't want to do. Going out to pick up lunch, making coffee.. I make a great cup by the way...answering and screening phone calls, dusting and cleaning the shop. I can use a vacuum.."
"I can't see that you would get much out of doing those menial jobs, Kyle."
" I would get a chance to watch the best in action. That is you. I know that."
Stanley sat forward in his chair, looking at him surprised, "How do you know this?"
Kyle didn't want to say what he had managed to hack into. Classified information he had found. "I just know." He looked around the room wondering how he might get out of this without indulging what he actually knew. He had Stanley's attention now, that was for sure.
"Anyhow, I would be cheap. I can work all day Saturdays, after school I don't mind the drive. I have to work with computers, it's the only thing I want to do. And I could watch you work, which would mean more to me than anything. I'd do that on my own time as well, so you wouldn't even be paying me."
Stanley raised his eyebrows and stood up, Kyle's earlier comment about being the best had thrown him a bit. What did this kid know about him,if anything. He eyed Kyle cautiously, and then decided what could he possibly know. There was no way he could have gotten into those confidential files, ones that Roberts had assured him had no chance of resurfacing. he wouldn't mind an extra body actually. And Kyle obviously knew about computers, and was eager. Not a bad thing. He had liked that about Brent as well. And then there was Emma. He couldn't help but think he would have a connection to Emma again. Surely she would be pleased that he hired him.
"Okay, Kyle, be here Saturday morning at 9a.m. and Brent will show the ropes. I only work half day on Saturdays, but I'll be in in the afternoon. And I insist you get paid when you watch me, that is part of hands on learning, an asset in the workplace."
Kyle stood up and shook his hand, "I swear you won't regret it."
"I hope you're right."
"This is so cool, you don't even know. My mom is going to be amazed I found a job so fast."
"how is your mom by the way?"
Kyle noticed the uneasiness in his voice. He knew something had been going on, but he wasn't sure what. It now seemed fairly clear that it had something to do with Stanley Jobson.
"She's really busy. State testing at school. Kind of stressed." He realized he hadn't painted a very nice picture at all. "You should call her."
"No, that's not a good idea." He definitely wasn't going to get into this conversation with her son, "Look, Kyle, I have a lot of work to do, so I'll see you on Saturday."
Kyle didn't think twice about his reaction. He was in his own little world...just landing a job with the greatest computer hacker of all time...it was going to be brilliant.
* * * * * *
But at home, he wasn't prepared for his Mom's reaction to his new job. Emma had wondered where he had rushed off to after school, and then he was late showing up for dinner.
"Sorry, I didn't call, Mom." As he scooted into his chair at the kitchen table. They had only just sat down, so he wasn't that late. "I got stuck in traffic."
Melody looked up, expecting her mom to say something, but she didn't. Lately her mom had been really quite subdued. Not really seeming to care about much of anything. She still seemed stressed but it was different. It was hard to pinpoint.
"Well, at least your home."
"You're not even going to ask me where I've been or what I've been doing?" His fork strolled around the dinner plate, assembling the food in order.
"I trust you, Kyle." She said matter of factly, not really seeming to care.
"Okay, well, I'm going to tell you....I got a job today. I start on Saturday."
Her arm stopped in midway to the salt shaker. He now had her interest. "I didn't know you had started to look."
"I just started today."
She was surprised, "You got the first job you applied for? Kyle that is great. So give us some details."
"It's probably at McDonalds and he will have to wear one of those stupid uniforms." Melody laughed imagining her brother having to run around in one of those dorky hats.
He turned to his sister, "It's not at McDonalds. And I don't have to wear a uniform."
"Well, that rules out all fast food joints then. And Wal-Mart and Target...who else would hire you?" Images of an apron, dishsoap, tons of dirty dishes, and soap bubbles did not suit her brother either.
"Melody, enough. So tell us, Kyle."
He wasn't sure how his mom would react to this, but he really didn't care. He had made a decision, stuck with it and got the job. So he just blurted it out, "Stanley Jobson hired me."
Emma nearly choked on her water when she heard him. She glared at him, "Kyle you can't work there!" Her napkin had to catch the spill over.
Surprised by her reaction, he went on the defense. It took a lot of effort on his part to get this job. "Why not? I want to work with computers, Mom. I don't want some crappy job at a fast food joint, or bag boy at a grocery store."
Emma was becoming flustered at Stan's name even being mentioned. Words were flowing without thinking. "I don't care, you can call him and tell him you can't take the job."
"Mom, I'm not going to do that. What do you have against Stanley Jobson, anyhow?" He placed his utensils down, insisting on standing firm. "As I recall you were friends a short while ago."
"I have nothing against him, it's the drive and the gas....it's too far." One of those rules pulled from the mother's owner manual quickly came to mind.
"This is a great opportunity for me, Mom. He is an incredible computer technician. He knows everything. Think of what I will learn! I will be one step ahead of the game when it comes to working in this field." Kyle really didn't understand this. People drove miles to attend college and night classes just to learn this stuff. "I really thought you would be pleased that I have made a huge effort to land myself a job doing something I like." He got up from the table somewhat determined not to let this slip by. "I'm not passing this up. I'll call Dad. He'll back me up."
Emma was really surprised at the 'ex' situation being thrown into the lot. "Why are you bringing him up. He has never really cared about anything you've done for a long time."
"Mom, normally I agree with you, but I can't imagine him going on like you are. He would be glad for me. Why can't you be happy about this? Something that means a lot to me." There's more going on than just this job discussion Kyle realized. "You've been so selfish lately, Mom."
Emma was shocked, "What?"
"The only thing that matters to you is school." That's all Kyle had seen her throw her attention into lately, that and a box of Kleenex.
"I have the state testing coming up, Kyle. You know that."
"It's not just that." He wasn't sure what else he should say. He knew something had been going on with Stanley. She had been happy, and then overnight she had changed. Only caring about her lesson plans and the principals visit and the testing. Why was she acting like everything was normal, went it wasn't? It hadn't been normal for weeks. In frustration, he threw down his fork, and stood up, "I got a lot of homework to do." And he left the table.
She called after his retreating form, "Kyle" but he didn't turn around.
Melody looked over at her mom. She looked like she was going to cry. What was going on? This wasn't like her mom to hold things in.
Emma got up from the table and went to her room. Melody heard the door shut, and started picking up the plates. Kyle and Emma's food was barely touched.
* * * * * * *
The next day at school, Emma called Stanley during recess. He answered the phone instead of Brent and it threw her, hearing his voice again after so long. She closed her eyes, and took in the sound that it was like music to her ears.
"The Computer Man. This is Stanley Jobson, can I help you?"
"Stanley." she said timidly.
He knew exactly who it was and changed his position in his chair, ready to hang on to every word she spoke. Why was she calling? Could she possibly be ready to see him again? He was hopeful. "Emma, this is a surprise."
His voice actually sounded as if he was glad she called. And for a few brief seconds Emma wanted to tell him she missed him. But she didn't. She remembered her reasoning behind the call and Stanley was not prepared for what came next.
Too much pent up emotion was tearing at her. Unknowing how to handle all of the conflicting feelings, anger breaks to the front. "Are you? My god, Stanley, what were you thinking hiring Kyle?" she shouted across the phone line.
Stanley held the phone away from his ear, shocked by her outburst. He decided to remain calm, "Oh, I see...this is about Kyle."
"Yes, why else would I be calling you?" Pent up emotion followed frustration.
"Oh, I forgot, you don't want to see me anymore....as far as you are concerned I don't exist." he said sarcastically.
"That isn't how it is and you know it. And anyhow this has nothing to do with me." Frustration begat aggravation.
"Could've fooled me." he paused, "So I take it you aren't pleased with Kyle's job."
"Did you think I would be? He is 16. It's a 30 mile drive to your store." Her palm was sweating on the handle of the phone.
"It's a job, Emma. A job he wants to do. A job, I believe he will be good at." Brent peered around from the floor, hearing Stanley's raised voice. Stanley managed to smile at him. "You know, this is a conversation I'm not prepared to have over the phone. If you have issues with it, you want to discuss with me... you can talk to me to my face...you know where I am" He hung up the phone. Brent looked surprised.
"You hung up on her."
"It's not the first time." Stan was a little disgruntled with his eaves dropping this time. "Don't you have something to do, Brent. I thought there was that installation...you were working on."
"Working on it as we speak, boss." Brent knew to stay away in this case. And he wondered what had he been thinking hiring Emma's son.
Emma got off the phone and was fuming, Rachel stood in her doorway. "you must have been talking to Gary."
"I wish." The receiver slammed with uncertainty that it would remain in the cradle.
Rachel looked surprised.
"At least Gary never hung up on me. That man has horrible telephone manners."
Rachel still had no clue what she was talking about. "Who was that?"
"Stanley Jobson." She said frustrated as she began to pace the room. IT was the first time she had said his name in weeks.
Rachel tried to piece the part of the conversation she had heard with Stanley and it didn't make sense. She watched quietly as her friend slowed the tempo, stopped and look at her upset.
Emma noticed her confusion. "He hired Kyle. Do you believe it? He didn't even consult me. Just hired him!" Ranting substituted her pacing.
"I thought you wanted him to have a job?" Rachel was trying to make amends for the unusual phone call. "This sounds great, Emma. Kyle loves computers. What a great experience for him. That was really nice of Stanley."
"I knew you would be on his side." She sulked.
"I'm on Kyle's side, Emma." Rachel had come in at a bad time and was trying to help. She watched as Emma grabbed a few Kleenexes from the counter and dabbed at her eyes.
Feeling her world start to crumble even more, she continued pacing the floor. Rachel went over to her and took her by the arm to get her to stop. Emma was shaking. "You're a wreck. My god, Emma, it is amazing you haven't had a nervous breakdown." Rachel got her to sit down. She watched her friend's forehead fall on her hand. Her hair fell forward covering her face. Dry sobs began racking her body. "Take deep breaths. Calm down."
"He has no right, Rachel." She wasn't quite crying but it was near.
"Okay, maybe he should have called you. But you can't deny Kyle this opportunity. He will never forgive you, Emma."
Now Emma was crying. Rachel looked at the clock, recess was nearly over. "You are in no state to teach a class. Look, I will go talk to the principal. He will understand that you are stressed about the tests starting tomorrow. There are plenty of bodies around here that can sub for you. You need to go home." She had already encompassed arms around her shoulder. Rachel wanted to say so much more. This was much more than Kyle's job obviously.
"I want to go home." Was muffled behind the mound of Kleenex.
"Good. Stay put and I will go make arrangements, pronto."
Emma sat in the child's desk and continued to cry. Thinking of Stanley. Why did it have to be this way? She shouldn't have to be so nasty. Tears of remorse were falling.
Rachel came back and grabbed Emma's jacket and purse, "All sorted. Come on, I'll walk you to your car." Emma seemed in a daze and didn't speak. Rachel was starting to worry about her. She had been acting like nothing had happened and it obviously had caught up with her. When she got in the car, Rachel leaned down to the window, "I think this is more than just Kyle, Em."
"What do you mean?" She had been fumbling the keys to the ignition and looked up through teary eyes.
"I know you miss him."
"Who?"
"Stanley."
There was that name again. Emma looked around nervously expecting Meg to pop up, or the principal. She tried blinking back tears.
"You need to do something about it. Before it drives you crazy. I can't stand seeing you like this."
Emma had no idea what she could do.
* * * * * * *
She drove her car to Grindz, the coffee shop directly across the street from Stanley's shop. She needed to see Stanley, but she needed to get a hold of herself first. So she ordered a coffee and sat at the back of the shop, sorting out what she needed to say to him. Rachel was right, she missed him. She was going crazy thinking about him constantly. She had no idea of the time, her thoughts were elsewhere....
Brent had noticed her car across the street at Grindz. It had been there nearly an hour. That was weird. Stanley had been in back working on a computer and when he came out it was close to noon, "Are you going to get lunch today, or is it my turn?" He said, as he approached Brent, who was staring out the window. Stanley looked at him oddly, "What are you looking at?" Brent moved away from the window quickly. He didn't want to get involved in whatever was going on between the two of them.
"Nothing." Stanley looked towards the coffee shop and saw Emma's car. He looked at Brent suspiciously.
"How long as she been there?"
"How would I know. Do you think I have been keeping tabs on her?"
Stan knew him to well, "Yes."
"An hour or so."
Stanley stood and looked out the window towards her car, "That's odd, she should be in school."
"So are you going to go see her?"
"Not on your life. She has to make the effort to see me." He was still a little sore about the phone call. "And obviously she is thinking about it or otherwise she wouldn't be across the street."
Brent shook his head, "You don't have a clue what you're doing." He picked up his keys, "I'll get lunch, is Chinese okay?"
He started to walk out of the shop, "What do you mean by that?"
"I am not saying a word." Shaking his head as he walked out into the parking lot.
* * * * * *
Emma looked at the clock and couldn't believe it was already 12:30. She stood up and made her way to the parking lot, trying to get the nerve up to walk across the street. Brent was gone, only Stan's suburban was in the parking lot. She got in her car and drove across the street, it was time to face the fire.
When she opened the door, the bell rang, and Stanley strolled onto the shop floor, not at all surprised to see her. She missed the looks that once passed between them. It was not there. Stanley stood so tall and was so sure of himself that Emma felt powerless in his presence. She was about to speak when the shop door opened again and a tall blonde in heels and a Versace suit confidently walked up to the counter.
"Well, hello, Stanley, always a pleasure to see you." She casually flirted. Looking around the room she totally ignored Emma. "And where is the other incredibly handsome man of your employ?"
Stanley smiled at her. Emma noticed it was genuine. She couldn't even get him to smile at her.
"Hey, Monique." He retrieved the paperwork. "Brent is out getting lunch."
"Well, you tell him I missed him, but I am sure your service will be equally as pleasing." Her designer sunglasses had been removed but she had casually used them as a teething ring while flinging conversation towards the owner of the shop.
Stanley nervously chuckled. "Well, Brent just finished up your PC, actually. I'll go grab it." He turned to Emma. "Don't go anywhere." He spoke to her like she was a child.
Both manicured hands tapped the counter while Monique's eyes took in the interior idly, then turned to Emma to rake in her features from top to bottom as if sizing up a leg of lamb.
Emma felt like a child next to her. Wearing a denim skirt, a striped T-shirt and tennis shoes....next to this gorgeous woman dressed to the hilt. Emma smiled but the woman turned around, waiting for Stanley's return. Emma wanted to crawl in a hole.
Stanley brought the computer out and laid it on the counter while he totaled the bill. Monique leaned into the counter and with both hands laced to support her chin she soaked in the scenery of Stan. A sly smile stole across her face as her eyes held appreciation.
Emma couldn't hear their conversation but she heard giggling express another flirtatious remark. Monique seemed quite practiced. She wrote a check. And Stanley offered to take it to her car for her. "How can I refuse? What woman wouldn't want to see you lift just about anything?"
Emma watched them walk out the door and watched as Stanley loaded the computer into her convertible. Brand new. She continued flirting with him, it was obvious. And why shouldn't she? He was attractive and well, Stanley would surely be attracted to her, too. What man wouldn't be? One thing for sure, she had no access baggage...like Emma had. It must be a breath of fresh air having a woman like that flirt with you.Now she began to feel sorry for herself.
Stanley looked up and saw her watching them. Emma stood back and went to the other side of the shop where she thumbed through a computer catalogue. Stanley walked back in.
"Sorry about that. I think you were going to say something when Monique walked in and I got sidetracked."
"Sidetracked?" she said under her breath, "is that what you call that?" The catalog still held her interest.
"What was that you said?"
"Nothing."
He noticed her expression. She was jealous. "So I guess I can assume you are here to talk about Kyle. I am surprised that you aren't at school."
"I went home sick."
"You don't look sick. What's wrong?" There was now a bit of concern in his voice. He began to walk toward her.
"The state testing starts tomorrow, I have a major headache that's all. I'm sure it's just the stress of the tests."
"Do you want to have a seat in back?" He was being civil.
She nodded and surprised herself that she was being civil as well. They went to the back and he pulled out a chair for her. "So, have you come to your senses about Kyle's job here?"
She didn't like the way he worded that and right away it rubbed her the wrong way. "I'm not happy about the way you handled it. I think you should have consulted with me." Friction was evident in her voice. " I'm sure if the tables were turned and I was hiring Holly, well...you would have wanted me to talk it over with you."
"No, I don't think I would've. I know you. I know Holly would be fine working with you. Just like you should know Kyle would be fine working here with me." His answer was without hesitation. "I would think you would be pleased that he is working for someone you know. Or at least that's what I assumed."
"You assumed a lot of things." She paused briefly, "If you care anything about me, Stanley, you'll call him and tell him you changed your mind."
He was offended by that comment, "I do care about you, Emma. But I won't do anything of the kind. Kyle wants to work here. He had a speech prepared to get me to hire him. He's smart, eager and enthusiastic. Just the kind of person I like having around."
"Since when were you even looking for help?" The proverbial grabbing at straws was taking effect.
"I wasn't. But he sold me. And this way, I can free myself up on Saturdays."
She was quiet thinking about what he had been or wanted to be doing on Saturdays. Monique popped into her mind.
Stanley noticed her envious look. For some reason he felt he had to explain himself. "I've been working on my house, adding a bathroom and a porch off the master bedroom. And I want to spend more time with Holly."
She felt stupid that she even thought such a thing, "That's understandable."
"Emma, I won't work him to the bone. I'm flexible with his school schedule and I know he needs to do homework after school. I won't let this job effect his school work."
"You don't know Kyle. This will consume him working with computers. I can't get him to get away from the one at home and now he'll be getting paid to work with them. How could he possibly be interested in his schoolwork or even going to college after working with you."
"I think you should give him the benefit of the doubt, Emma." He was trying to stay matter of fact.
"He's not your son, Stanley." she realized she had raised her voice.
That really cut to the chase. "Where did that come from? God, Emma, all I did was help the kid out and give him a job."
She had promised herself she wouldn't get upset and now she was doing it. She stood up and began pacing the floor.
Stan had been here before, the day she told him she couldn't see him anymore. Watching her movements, the body language began to relay a different message why she was here. Realization began to sink in. "Maybe there's something else you want to say to me."
Emma knew what he was on about, and didn't want to talk about it. "I am here to talk about Kyle. And you don't seem to be looking at this situation the same way I am."
Stanley seemed disappointed. He was hoping she could talk about them.
"I'm listening." He waited for her to speak.
She turned slowly towards him and he was looking at her, "What will they say at school?...my school, when they see him working here? Can't you see this will only make matters worse?"
"As far as I can see, that bit of gossip died as soon as it rose." His voice was calmer knowing what he was really up against. "Emma no one is talking about us. Rachel says it's old news."
Emma had no idea Rachel had been talking to him, "Rachel? You've been talking to Rachel, too?" Her mind started to race with thoughts she had confided in Rachel that now Stanley could possibly be aware of.
"Yes, she's a friend. I'm entitled to friends, aren't I?" Why was she behaving like this, being jealous of Rachel? It was pointless.
She didn't answer him. It upset her that he wasn't falling apart. That everything seemed so right for him...without her. "It's so easy for you isn't it?"
"What?"
"Everything." She couldn't seem to keep her thoughts clear. Every time she looked at him, she became flustered and nervous. The previous pacing continued while outlining the workroom, arms waving frantically. "Your little world is perfect, isn't it? You have a great job and a home and a beautiful daughter. Friends...plenty of them. Everyone likes you. Everyone wants to be around you...Rachel, and now Kyle. It must be great being so popular." Punctuated by thrusts of the arms, she sounded bitter.
Once again she was off on a tangent and he had no idea where it came from or where it was going. "You don't know the first thing about my world, Emma. What it's been like for me." It had taken a long time for him to grasp his fortunate chance to start over, where he came from, what hole he had nearly been buried in by his former ex. "You've been so absorbed in your own problems. You need to get a grip on reality....stop giving a fuck what your damn principal thinks for starters...and you aren't the first woman that has been left by a man....it happens." The response came out a little too heated but it was the truth. After saying this, he felt that maybe he had stepped over the line. Could she take it?
She stood and glared at him briefly, turning away holding back tears. She was not going to cry again.
It was time to clear the table. "I'm not carrying on with Rachel or Monique or anyone for your information...so let's drop the jealousy while we are at it." It had to be said. "And for god's sake you have to let Kyle go. He'll only turn against you if you keep treating him as if he were a child."
She held back tears as she turned away from him. It was there and then she felt she had blown it. She was an emotional wreck and now had allowed Stanley to see it in full force. How could he ever want anything to do with her after today? The floor tile was getting another path worn.
Emma's behavior frightened him. He had never seen her like this. She was pacing the floor, flaying her arms every which way...on the verge of tears. He could take it no longer. Getting out of his chair he moved towards her and grabbed both of her wrists in one swoop of his left hand. They were now locked into his fist. Firmly he pulled her up snug against him. She struggled. "Let go of me." The protest was weak. Her body did not agree.
Towering over her, firm and solid, "Emma. you have to stop this." His grasp was tight, but not uncomfortably. She backed up struggling against him, with no success, running into the metal shelve unit against the wall, knocking over a stack of discs. They scattered to the floor and she looked down, hoping that Stanley would let go and pick them up. But he didn't even flinch. He centered his gaze and did not take his eyes off her. His body now pressed against hers, his face inches away. His body heat, the clasp of his fingers around her wrists, his intense gaze.... it was all too much for her. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, realizing it had become irregular. She had to be in control. She could do this, she could be in control. But then his free hand went to her cheek. His gentle touch slowly opened her eyes. Stanley gazed into the crystal blues and the desire he had been holding back for weeks resurfaced, only, this time, with a vengeance. He was desperate for her that moment. Her struggling now ceased and she felt herself gasp as his hand sensually caressed the contour her face.
She tried to speak. A finger touched softly over her lips, outlining them, as a quieting gesture. A whispered response came close to her ear, "Shhhhh. Emma." He was still grasping her hands with his, afraid she would push him away if he let go. He began to speak in a quiet, soothing voice, "We both know this isn't about Kyle, Emma."
Her eyes closed, not wanting to look at him. Faces were in such close proximity to each other. It was incredibly erotic. He continued to stroke her face and play with her hair that tumbled around her face.
His eyes also wafted shut, inhaling her intoxicating aroma. Gently brushing his lips against her neck, he lay a blind trail. Her body trembled as lips began moving up the side of her neck, caressing her ear lobe. Breath was moist on her skin, he continued moving across her cheek towards the edge of her mouth.
To Emma, an erotic response from her body was almost unheard of. Breasts that were petite and still held themselves well, suckled her children as infants. This resulted in her most embarrassing aspect of how unusually enlarged the nipples extended when erect, rarely only when enticed.
Stanley was an incredible enticer. His touch and the feeling of her own excited body flushed her cheeks crimson. Arms that were folded up and over her chest prevented Stan from feeling the full effect he had on her. Control was no longer an option that her body gave her.
* * * * * *
Brent pulled his VW bug into the parking lot and saw Emma's RAV 4 parked next to the Suburban. So, Emma had made the effort Stan was waiting for. He wondered what was going on in there. He hated to barge in on them but he was curious and incredibly hungry. The Stanley and Emma saga had become intriguing to say the least. Brent had never known a relationship to come so far and then have various stumbling blocks thrown in it's way, the way theirs had. It had obviously been rough on both of them. He thought he could probably sneak in the back without
them even noticing. That was his best bet. He fumbled for the backdoor key on his key ring, and in his other hand juggled the bag of Chinese food.
The door opened quietly but Brent was not prepared for the sight that lay before him. He stood in shock, watching Stanley in a heated moment. They hadn't heard the door open. Emma's face was one of pure rapture and her shirt revealed extensive and intense interest. And Stan wasn't even touching her there. Brent had to admit the whole scenario turned him on more than slightly. He had forgotten about the door behind him, caught up in observing the excitement. It slammed shut just as Stan's lips were about to close over Emma's.
Stanley jumped and his hand freed hers. Emma, being startled once again, backed up. Her now free hands managed to fling backwards and knock another stack of discs to the ground in a crash.
Brent stood planted in the spot.
Turning towards the noise, Stanley saw Brent with the bag of food nervously smiling.
Brent tried to salvage his untimely entrance. "Foods here." This was not good.
Stan's look of frustration was obvious. Emma nervously knelt down and began to pick up the discs scattered at her feet. Stanley knelt down next to her and put his hand over hers, "You don't have to do that." She looked at him and he saw the passion behind her eyes, the glow on her face. God, if only Brent hadn't walked in. Always one-step forward, two steps back.
She got up and grabbed her purse wanting to quickly depart.
Unsure what to do next, Brent began to babble. "I bet you guys are hungry." He realized it wasn't the best choice of words. And Stanley looked at him, raising his eyebrows in aggravation. Brent continued, "There's plenty of food, Emma. Your welcome to stay."
She fumbled in her purse for her keys. "I couldn't' possibly. I have a headache. I just want to go home and lie down. Thanks anyhow, Brent. That was sweet of you to ask." Her skin was still flushed an exasperated pink
Stanley had managed to pick up the discs, stood up, and placed them on the shelf. Emma and he exchanged glances, accepting the other's response, but nothing was said. She turned to walk out the front of the shop and Stanley followed her.
When she got to the front door, Stanley spoke her name. "Emma."
She turned. "I shouldn't have come." She looked down at her feet trying to find something to say on a positive note. "You're right. I need to let go of Kyle. He'll be good here with you and Brent. I know he'll love it and I was wrong in trying to interfere." She was calm but Stanley knew what had just happened between them was playing heavily on her mind. She once again needed some time to sort out where she wanted this to lead.
Hand pushing the front door, she walked out. Glancing at him, her eyes saying much more than she realized.
Stanley sighed as he watched her car leave the parking lot and headed into the backroom. Seeing Brent had the food cartons laid out on his desk and was already digging in. "Well, you're hungry obviously."
"Not as hungry as you, I'm sure." Once again, Brent spoke without thinking.
A glare was cast from Stanley. He walked over to the repair counter and started working on a computer.
"Aren't you going to eat?"
"Lost my appetite, the minute you walked in." He said sarcastically. A small wrench bore the brute of his grip. A screw twisted off.
"Hey, I'm sorry. How was I to know the two of you were...? well, you know... anyhow, it was lucky I showed up, really."
Setting the tools down he turned to him, "How so?"
"Any second later and you would have had her on the desk.... Come on, Stanley, that isn't how you want it to be."
He actually began to lighten up and laughed at the thought. He had to admit it had crossed his mind. He moved over to the desk and leaned over picking up a handful of crispy noodles, then pulled a chair up and grabbed a pair of chopsticks. "I doubt that would have happened."
Brent was glad to see him smiling, "She's pretty hot, Stan."
Stanley blushed wondering what possibly Brent saw between them.
"And....whew..."he made a gesture of the heat with his hand sweeping over his forehead, "I can still feel the electricity in the air...god, man, the sparks were flying off both of you." He continued eating like it was nothing, which Stan found amazing. To be young and 21, he thought. Life would be so easy.
Stanley was quiet and found he was hungrier than he thought as he began to dig into some fried rice and lemon chicken. Brent had been so right about one thing, she was hot. He had never felt this with any woman before, this driving desire and passion that passed through his whole body every time she was in the room.
Brent saw the look in his eyes, "You have got it so bad, man. Don't you think it's time the two of you sorted this out? You got chemistry..for god's sake, Stan... just take her to bed...you know it's what both of you want."
He really didn't want to go into details of his private life. He knew Brent wouldn't shut about it either."She's not ready." Shooting daggers across the desk reinforced that he didn't want to continue this discussion, but Brent paid no mind.
"From where I stood, man, she was so ready." Reflecting back to his girlfriend, he wished he could produce that type of reaction with her at the drop of a hat.
Stanley looked up from his food, contemplating what Brent had seen. Stan had felt it too. She seemed ready but she was still holding back. He knew there were a lot of things weighing heavily on her mind that he couldn't possibly truly understand. But after this afternoon, Stanley knew that it was time he did something. He couldn't stand back any longer.
"