Emma dove into housework over the weekend to keep busy and to
keep her mind off Stanley. He hadn't called and she was not going to call
him. She knew she was being childish, but she really felt she hadn't done
anything wrong. All she wanted was answers, and he wasn't willing to give
them. It hurt so much. They had become so close, and he still was holding
so much back.
Saturday evening came around and Kyle was expecting Amy to come over, but he couldn't help but notice his mom frantically tidying up the house. Something she was never overly zealous about. But this weekend she had become a whirlwind, and the house looked immaculate. His door was open and Emma entered not even acknowledging him.
"Did you have a fight with Stanley?" Kyle asked as Emma pushed passed him in a hurry, as she frantically picked up dirty socks and boxers off the floor of his room, and threw them into the laundry basket.
She didn't ;t look at him but continued, "why would you say that?"
"Because you have been frantically cleaning all day. And Stan had his head buried in a computer with headphones all day, I don't even think he broke for lunch. Didn't speak to a soul to anyone."
She stopped and sat down on the edge of his bad in frustration, "It wasn't a fight. I don't know what it was. Somethings wrong."
"With Stan?"
"You work with him. You must have seen the change in him lately."
"He's not getting much sleep,I know that." Kyle felt a bit on the spot. He didn't really have a clue what was going on with him. But he was pretty certain, Stanley was trying to figure out what he was going to say to Emma about his past. Kyle had seen the progress on the house. As far as he knew, he still wanted them to move in. Of course his mom didn't know anything about that either. "You should just call him."
"I won't. "
"Oh, come on , Mom. You are having a rotten weekend and no doubt he is too. You know whatever it is, it will sort itself out."
"I don't know if it will this time." She was serious. Kyle didn't like the look on her face. She looked at the clothes in the basket, she fingered them. She just wanted to cry. What was happening. She didn't want to lose Stanley. But she felt him slipping away from her. And it scared her.
The doorbell rang and brought her back to reality, "That's Amy isn't it?"
Kyle hesitated not wanting to leave her, "you know we should all play a game or something. Trivial Pursuit. I know Melody would love that."
"I have too much to do." She picked up the basket and headed back out into the hall. Kyle followed her and watched her head out to the garage, shaking his head. He didn't like what was happening one bit.
He opened the door, and Amy was smiling at him. Her presence was just what he needed, his worry and concern put on the back burner as she reached out and kissed his cheek. "Kyle, are you alright?"
"I am now."
"It's your mom isn't it?"
God, what a jerk he was. He had this beautiful girl standing here and every time he was with her, he was concerned about his mom. It was becoming a bad habit, and how long would she put up with it. "Why do you say that?"
"Just the vibe I got from today at the shop. And I overheard Brent talking to his girlfriend on the phone. Stanley hasn't broken up with her as he?"
"No...he's just being a guy...not telling her some things." He took her hand, "Don't let me every do that." He lead her into his room.
"What kind of things?" She now seemed concerned too.
He was tempted to show her the disc, to tell her everything. "No one really knows about Stanley before he moved here."
"But you do, don't you?"
"Look, it's none of my business. He's my boss, and he's been good to me."
"This sounds serious, Kyle." Kyle went to his backpack and pulled out the disc. Amy stared at it in confusion.
"I don't have a clue what this means." He popped it into the computer and sat down, he motioned for Amy to shut the door. After she did she stood over him as he began to open the file, absorbed by the images appearing on the screen and Kyle's agility as his fingers flew over the keys. He then abruptly stopped. This time he had accessed the account with no problem and Amy looked at the numbers that appeared on the screen in dollar amount.
"That's a hell of a lot of money. What is this?"
"I was hoping you could tell me. I found it in Stan's desk....by accident."
She looked at it more closely. "It looks like bank accounts in Monte Carlo, Lucerne, Geneva...Luxomberg" All of a sudden a box flashed across the screen...TRANSFER OCCURING ON MAY 4, 2002 DELAYED...SYSTEM ERROR...
Kyle looked back at Amy,"What does that mean?"
"Kyle, have you been playing around with this?"
"No...I'm not stupid."
"It just looks like someone transferred some money and there was some malfunction in the program, so it didn't take place."
"Well, I didn't do it."
"How long have you had the disc?"
Kyle tried to remember when he had taken it. It was going on two weeks. "2 Weeks, I guess." Amy looked at the Japanese Anime calender hanging by the computer and counted back two weeks, she then leaned over him looking into his eyes.
'Kyle that is May fourth. Maybe you hit transfer by accident."
Kyle thought about that day in the shop, with Brent checking up on him and the first time he had hacked into a program. It was the day he had met Amy, he was a bit preoccupied. "I suppose that could have happened." She nudged him out of the chair, and he obliged and she sat down.
Kyle leaned over her as she started opening up files on the program. They meant nothing to her, but she tried to make heads or tales out of them. "Who's money is this?"
"I don't know."
"It's got to be illegal, Kyle. Do you think Stanley would be involved in something illegal?" She was still so amazed the amount of money she saw in front of her on the screen, "No one should have this much money, it's disgusting. They should be giving it to some charities, to people that need it."
Amy was very strong in her beliefs, she was a firm supporter in animal rights, and set aside part of her allowance every week to go to that cause. Kyle rolled his eyes, to him this was much more than than the amount of money. He thought about the possibility of Stanley being involved in something illegal. . He had hacked into the Carnivore program, he had been in Levinworth for 2 years. It was definitely a possibility. She looked up at him and he turned his head, "You know something don't you? About Stanley?"
"Amy, let's just forget about this." He started to take the disc out and she put her hand over the eject button. Their eyes met.
"You wanted to show me this. I'm involved now, so you better tell me what's going on."
He let out a sigh and then sat on the edge of the bed putting his head in his hands. She swiveled the chair around to face him. She took hold of his hands and pulled them away from his face, "It can't be that bad, can it? He's a nice guy."
He looked into her eyes and decided he needed someone to confide in. He had been keeping this to himself for months. "Stan was in prison. He was a hacker....what am I saying ..he was THE hacker. He hacked into some government programs and set them back years. "
Amy didn't seem to shocked, instead found it intriguing, "Really? Good for him." Kyle was a bit surprised. "hey, I think it's great when people stand up for what they believe in...obviously Stanley had strong beliefs and did something about them. Most people are full of talk. Of course he got caught, but he managed to put a fly in the ointment so to speak." Kyle didn't look incredibly happy with her response.
"It's all well and good, you think he's some kind of hero, but he hasn't told my mom."
Amy realized she had said the wrong thing."Kyle, I'm sorry."
"I don't know what to do. I shouldn't know about this stuff," he flung his arm toward the computer screen. "I don't want to find out he's doing something illegal. That he's going to break my mom's heart." Amy moved over to the bed and put her arm around him.
"That's not going to happen. I believe love can conquer all, I know that is so silly. But I do. And they love each other, so things are going to work out. In the meantime, this whole mess...." she waved her hand at the screen. "I think you're damn lucky that transfer didn't go through, because who knows what kind of trouble you would have put yourself and Stanley in." she then smiled, turned back to the screen and pushed a transfer button.
Kyle tried to stop her, "Amy, what are you doing? You just said I was lucky that transfer didn't go through....so what the hell are you up to?" His hand grabbed hers, and she turned looking up at him.
"They won't miss a measly couple thousand, I'm donating it to an Animal Rights group."
"No...Amy, this isn't our money, and it's not a game. This effects my family."
She saw how serious he looked, a message appeared on the screen expecting another command, either continue or cancel. "I'm being selfish, I'm sorry, Kyle. It's just too tempting. I hate seeing this kind of money sitting around, what do you think they are using it for?"
Kyle wondered too, and he had to admit he agreed with her. He started thinking about the possibility of them missing that small amount of money. He leaned over her clicking the mouse to continue...the next command wanted to know the account to transfer to. Amy looked puzzled.
"I thought...."
"You're right, they won't miss it. Go ahead."
"Are you sure?"
He nodded, not really sure at all, but what the hell. Things were already a mess. Amy continued the transfer, and when it was finished she stood and went over to him, putting her arms around him, "Hey, we're in this together. Okay?" He managed a smile, blushing, "and you know something, Mr. Computer Genius, Stanley has some stiff competition here, you hacked into that program Kyle..."
"It's not right, Amy...I did it, and now I feel like shit." she kissed him gently on the lips and it surprised him. He looked tenderly into her eyes.
"Why are you staring at me?" She smiled coyly.
He blushed, "You're something else and I'm so glad I told you... I hated knowing all this stuff, keeping it inside."
"I want to help...anyway I can." She started to kiss him and Kyle nearly melted when there was a pound on the door.
"I'm going to tell Mom, you have the door closed and a girl is in your room. She is going to be so mad!" Melody shouted from the other side. Kyle pulled away from Amy and went to the door, where Melody stood smiling evilly. Satisfied, Melody strolled down the hall to her room.
* * * * * * * *
Emma's weekend went from bad to worse when she got a phone call from Rachel, the following day. "Thank god you're home, Em...." Rachel's voice was frantic, higher pitched than usual, talking very fast, "I thought you might be having a Sunday afternoon rendevous with Stanley...."
Emma sighed. "Not this weekend." Emma wondered if there would ever be another weekend. She hadn't heard from him at all. It was silent for a few seconds, then Rachel continued.
"You aren't going to ask me what's going on? Where I am?"
Emma was in no mood for guessing games, "Okay, where are you?" She said with no enthusiasm.
"Well, don't sound so excited." Rachel said sarcastically.
"How can I sound excited when I don't know what you are talking about?"
Rachel could sense a sharp edge in Emma's voice. Something was wrong, but Rachel couldn't contain herself, "I don't know what's wrong with you, but you aren't going to spoil my day. I called you....you were the first person I thought of."
"what are you talking about...your day?"
Rachel almost felt like crying. "Josh and I are in Las Vegas...we got married 15 minutes ago. But I guess you aren't interested." This hurt her. Emma was her best friend, the one person she shared everything with.
"Married?" Emma was in shock. She wanted to be happy for her, but deep inside she was jealous. Everything seemed to be pointing that way for her, and then Stanley just started behaving differently. She quickly snapped out of her selfish thoughts. "Rachel, of course I'm interested...I can't believe it. But I'm dissapoitned that I'm not there with you."
"I know. It just happened. I wasn't expecting it. Josh just did something so spontaneous....bringing me here, we spent the whole day in bed yesterday, didn't even go down for lunch or to hit the slots. And you know, Josh loves the slot machines." Emma now was holding back tears. What had happened to her and Stanley in the last week, where was their spontaneity, that chemistry they had together?
"Are you really happy for me, Emma? You don't sound it."
"Just having a bad weekend. I am ecstatic for you. So can I have a belated shower for you? I want to do something. You are coming back tomorrow right?"
It was silent on the other end, Emma couldn't help but make out the sound of a kiss. Josh was there with her. Rachel started to giggle, "Sorry, Josh, wants me to get off the phone."
"I can't imagine why." Emma was trying to act as normal as possible. "You better go. I'll see you at school." She closed her eyes, holding back tears, "I am so happy for you, Rachel, really I am."
"You're next. I know it....Stanley is just waiting for the right moment."
Emma didn't say a word. They said their goodbyes and Emma hung up the phone. She sat down on the edge of her bed and slowly laid back. Rolling to her side she clutched the pillow and buried her face in it crying. She cried over everything these days. It was like how it had been when Gary left. She should never have gotten her hopes up about Stanley. Of course, she wasn't meant to have a man like him in her life. Why had she ever thought it could possibly be? She had to get a grip on herself. Life went on, Stanley or no Stanley. But Emma didn't really believe this. For the last few weeks, she had imagined her life with Stanley. It was all she wanted. And now, with every passing day, he seemed to be slipping away from her.
* * * * * * *
Somehow Emma got through the week, despite Rachel's newly wedded glow, and Meg's snide comments about Stanley's absence. Meg was in her face nearly every free moment at school, talking about how crazy he was and that she had every intention of pressing charges. Emma ignored her, knowing she just wanted attention. So she got on with what was important...the last few weeks of school. Wanting to make them extra special for her students. When she was at school, she was happy. At home, another story. Both of her kids sensed something wrong. But she wasn't offering any information. She cried a lot. Over little things. Melody hated it. She worried her mom would fall into the same patterns after her dad had left. It had taken her months to pull herself together and finish up her schooling. Kyle tried to reassure her, that things would work out. But Melody wasn't so sure.
There were only two weeks left of school. The father/daughter dance was the last event of the year. Emma sat quietly in the media center, doodling on her notepad. It was 10 past 7, and they were all waiting for Stanley. Emily secretly hoping he wouldn't show up. The other women were too busy chatting, not really caring about the time. Stanley had been a great addition to the committee, and they were willing to wait.
By 7:30, Emma finally spoke up, "I don't think we should wait. He's not coming." The women all were silent and stared at Emma. All of them were fairly sure something was going on between these two. And found Emma's demeanor very odd.
"I think he'll be here, Emma. He probably was quite busy at work."
She stood up, "Well, I have other things to do. I don't want to wait." She sounded snappy. So not like the Emma Heyward they all knew. She began to pace the floor, and they continued with their inane babble.
* * * * * * * *
It was close to 7pm. Stanley had Mary come over to watch Holly. He had gotten home late, and really shouldn't even go to the damn meeting. But it was the last one. The dance was this Friday and there were still some loose ends to tie up. And he had to admit, he wanted to see Emma. Ever since their last encounter in the shop, Stanley had been going over and over in his head, how he was going to tell her everything. He had refrained from calling her until he had it all sorted out, but so many other things were going on....the shop was extremely busy, there had been a few glitches in the house addition, that needed working out as well. But she was in his thoughts every minute. He was just about to get into the shower, when Mary knocked on the door. He rebuttoned his shirt and went to the door,
"Holly won't come out of the bathroom."
"What?" This was really strange.
"She's crying, I've tried to talk to her. I don't know what it is."
Stanley pushed past her and tried the door handle of the bathroom, it was locked. "Holly, open the door." He hadn't really talked to her since coming home from work, so he was wondering if something had happened at school to cause this scene.
"No, I won't. Go away."
He could hear her sniffling, "What is it, baby?"
"I want Emma." This only frustrated him, what the hell was she playing at.
"Well, I'm sorry, you're stuck with me and Mary."
"Well, I want you both to go away. I'm not coming out."
Stanley looked at Mary confused, "Do you have any idea what's going on?"
Mary shook her head. Stanley took a deep breath, "Holly, you're being ridiculous. I can't help you if I don't know what's going on."
There was silence. He looked at his watch, he was already late for the meeting. Emma was more than likely there. He contemplated going to get her. But his pride won over. He was her father, he could handle this.
"I don't have to go to the meeting. If that's what you want."
"I want you to go away. I don't want you. I told you. I want Emma."
He once again turned to Mary, "So what do I do?"
"I think you should go get Emma." He pondered his next move. "I know you try your best, Stanley, but sometimes a young girl needs a mother figure."
"She won't talk to you either."
Mary chuckled, "Me a mother figure? You have to be kidding. Emma has filled that place for Holly, Stanley. I don't know what has happened between the two of you lately and it's really none of my business, but Holly has become incredibly attached to her."
"We both have." He knew what his decision was that minute. "Could you stay with her for a bit? Give me a call on my cell if you need me." Mary nodded as He headed out to the living room, grabbed his keys and headed out the door.
* * * * * * *
Emma was getting more frustrated by the minute. Why did everyone bow and scrape to this man? She was still pacing the floor when the media center door swung open and a disheavled Stanley walked in. He waltzed straight over to Emma and took her by the arm.
"I need you at home. It's Holly." Emma met his gaze, the concern in his eyes evident. He then realized the ladies staring at him and he managed to smile at them. "I'm sorry, ladies...family crisis. I'm just going to borrow Ms. Heyward here for a few minutes. Shouldn't be long." He began to pull her out of the room, she didn't fight him until they were outside.
She shook free from his grasp, "You just assume I'm going to jump at your beck and call, don't you?"
"This has to do with Holly. I tried to handle the situation but she wants you. Are you going to disappoint her? Do you think you can put whatever it is you're feeling for me aside for Holly's sake?"
Emma felt bad, Stanley was very upset. "What's happened?"
"I don't know. She won't come out of the bathroom for me or Mary. You're the expert on pre-teenagers, you tell me what's wrong."
Emma smiled, "locked herself in the bathroom? I've been there before, and so has Melody." Stanley looked at her confused, "I'll meet you at your house."
"You can ride with me."
"I just need to pick something up at the store. I won't be a minute. Just go back to Holly."
"She doesn't want anything to do with me."
"You'd be surprised what she wants." Stanley had no idea what she was talking about. As she opened her car door, Stanley called her name.
"I appreciate this, Emma."
"I'm glad to help out. You know how I feel about Holly."
"But after the other day..."
She put her hand up, "We're not going to get into that now. Holly is what is important now." She was looking at him, their eyes locked onto each other for a brief moment...she wasn't imagining it. That look she had seen time and time again. The one that made her melt, the one that sent shivers down her spine. The thoughts that had run through her mind the last few days put aside, she wasn't going to give up on him. Not yet.
She smiled at him as she closed the car door and drove off down the street.
When Stanley got back to the house, the situation hadn't changed. Mary was surprised he was alone, "No luck with Emma?" she questioned as she picked up her purse to leave.
He smiled, "She's on her way."
She patted Stanley's shoulder smiling, "Good. You two belong together, Stanley and whatever problems you're having, work them out, for all your sakes...not just for Holly.:"
Stanley saw her out and then headed back to the bathroom door, Holly was crying. He leaned up against the door, hoping Emma would get there soon. "Baby?"
"Is she here...Emma?"
"She's on her way." Stanley heard a rap at the door and went to open it. Emma stood there with a small bag in her hand, she had seen the mess out front and now as she entered the living room, saw the construction still in progress.
"You're adding onto your house again?"
He nodded. "Finding it a bit cramped." Emma found this hard to believe. It was a perfect house for two people and a dog.
"It's going to be nice."
"I think so..." he felt a bit awkward, "Holly....she's..:"
Emma walked past him, "I know where the bathroom is." She went to the door and Stanley followed.
"Holly, it's Emma."
The whimpering had stopped and Emma could tell she had come towards the door, "Is my Dad there?"
Emma turned to look at Stanley, and he shook his head, not wanting her to say yes. "He's here. He's worried about you."
"I won't open the door until he goes away." Emma turned to Stanley.
"Go on, make yourself scarce. Maybe go back to the meeting."
Stanley put up a protest, "I'm not going anywhere until I find out what's going on. I'm her father remember?"
"No one has forgotten that fact." She could tell he was feeling like a failure as a father at this moment. "And a good one." she added to reassure him.
"Right." he commented sarcastically. "I can't even get my daughter out of the bathroom."
She gave him a little push, and he headed down the hall reluctantly and into his room. He turned as he entered the room, "You'll come and get me if you need anything."
"Of course." He then disappeared into the bedroom. Emma refocused on Holly, "He's gone."
"You're not just saying that?"
"No, he's really gone." Emma heard the click of the lock, and the door slowly opened. Emma pushed it open and found Holly crouched on the floor clutching her legs up against her. Her blood stained underpants lying on the floor. Holly bent her head in shame. And Emma crouched down next to her, smiling and pushing her hair off her face. "It's okay, Holly." She opened the bag and pulled out the sanitary pads inside.
"How did you know?" Holly was amazed.
"I hid myself in the bathroom too when it happened to me. And Melody did as well. It's pretty traumatic the first time. But you get used to it and it's nothing to be ashamed of."
"I don't want my dad to know. He thinks I'm his baby."
"Well, you are. You'll always be his baby. And he'll have to know, Holly, I can tell him, if you want." She stroked her face, "Why don't you get in the shower, and I'll go get your pajamas and some clean underwear and then we can talk."
"but Dad..."
"I'll get rid of him."
"You think you can?":
"I think so."
"I'm glad you came, Emma. I just didn't want to talk to Dad about this."
"That's understandable. This is a girls thing. And an important day in your life, one men don't really understand." Holly managed a smile. Relieved to have Emma there. There had been so many questions, ones she hadn't felt comfortable talking to her dad about. All of her friends had moms to talk to. And now she had Emma.
Emma left her to take a shower and went to Holly's room. She wasn't surprised when she found Stanley had joined her, "So is she okay?"
"She's okay. She just needed a woman that's all."
"Is that all your going to tell me." Emma pulled out some pajamas and underwear from her top drawer and then turned to face him.
"You're daughter started her period."
Stanley was in shock, "She's only 11...that can't be."
"Melody started at 11 too. It's happened Stanley and Holly is a bit overwhelmed, not having a mother...or a woman she can talk to."
"I need to go talk to her." He began to leave the room and Emma moved towards him grabbing his arm.
"No, she doesn't want you around right now. You need to respect her privacy. Her body is changing and she's finding your presence a bit uncomfortable right now."
"That's ridiculous. I'm her father."
"I know it's not what you want to hear. But you better start getting used to it."
"So what am I supposed to do?"
"Give her some space, I told her I'd get rid of you. So we can talk."
"She wants to be with you." he said a little jealous, feeling shut out. "She needs a mother, is that right?"
Emma was a bit embarrassed. "Well, she needs a woman, that's all."
"Then why couldn't Mary deal with it? She wanted you. Explain that to me."
"I'm her teacher, she spends more time with me than any other female. It's only natural she would turn to me." She wanted to get out of the room but he was blocking the doorway. His hand raised above his head resting on the door frame. Her eyes at his chest, she looked down at her feet, trying to recompose herself. He looked so incredibly enticing. "You go to the meeting. I'm sure when you get back everything will be fine."
"With Holly?" he had been watching her the last few minutes, he missed her touch, he missed having his arms around her. He couldn't get over how great she looked in those jeans and that spaghetti strap top, showing just the slightest amount of cleavage. Of course she was trying to cover it with her sweater, but it didn't work. Stanley took in a deep breath, he already knew what lie underneath and found himself getting turned on.
"yes, of course with Holly. Who else would I be talking about?" Emma was fully aware of the looks he was throwing her way, she tried to avoid his gaze, pulling her sweater around her chest, after noticing his gaze falling upon her breasts.
"And what about you?" trying to get those thoughts out of his mind, it was so hard with her standing so close.
"What about me?"
"I was just wondering how you are? Are you fine?" He was doing it again, that soft sexy voice....those eyes, his eyebrows raised.
"I just want to make sure Holly is situated and comfortable. It's a very traumatic thing she's going through. I'll stay with her til you get back."
"That's not what I asked you?" Emma heard the shower turn off.
"I need to get to Holly. Are you going to let me go through?" inches away from him he moved a little closer his body rubbing against hers. He wasn't about to budge.
"Emma..." Holly's voice called out from the bathroom. Stanley returned to reality....his daughter...that is why Emma was here, not for him. He turned towards her voice. Perfect opportunity for Emma to duck under his arm and escape into the bathroom. Quickly closing the door behind her, leaning against it she sighed. That was too close. Holly wrapped in a towel, looked at her strangely. Emma smiled, handing her the things in her arms, when there was movement on the other side of the door.
Stanley's voice sounded a little disappointed and distant, "I guess I'm going to the meeting." There was a pause, "If that's what you want, Holly."
"I'm fine, Dad. Emma's here. You go ahead to the meeting."
There was an awkward silence for a brief moment, Emma could tell by the sound of Stanley's voice he wasn't extremely pleased with being kicked out of his own house by his daughter.
Then he spoke, "Emma, open the door." She cracked the door and his face was now inches from hers. His hand went up and stroked her cheek. Emma closed her eyes, his touch that she had missed in the past few days, making her feel alive again. "I have so much to say to you."
"Stanley, this isn't the time."
"I know. We can work this out right? Us?"
Emma paused, she wanted that more than anything. "It's highly possible..." he leaned in, not knowing if she would let him kiss her or not. But pleasantly surprised when her lips met his. As they parted he stood there smiling at her, and she lowered her head briefly feeling the blush rise in her cheeks. Lifting her head slowly his gaze still fixed on her.
She gave him a shove through the door, "You need to go. What would the Dance committee do without your wit and charm and those incredible leadership skills you possess. They hang on your every word."
He laughed, "Very funny, Em."
"I'm not exagerating. They do."
He gave her the evil eye and headed down the hall, from the front door he called out, "I'll make sure they know what your duty is Friday night."
He was not surprised to find her standing in the entry way eying him, "What's that suppose to mean?"
He raised his eyebrows, "you'll just have to wait and see, won't you?" With a skip in his step he headed out the door.
The meeting lasted longer than expected and when Stanley entered the house, he found Emma and Holly on her bed, both asleep. There were teen magazines, Xmen comics and various pieces of paper with some of Holly's newly acquired drawing skills(ala Melody). Across Emma's chest was one of Holly's fairy tale books about knights and princesses. Holly was clutching her rabbit tightly. He smiled at the sight. She was still his little girl. All night the thought of this new change in her, scared him. What the hell did he know about girls and this kind of thing? Emma had saved the day,...Emma...He smiled at her sleeping figure. Tonight just brought him one step closer to getting everything out in the open. He desperately wanted her in his life full time. And this little scenario only heightened those feelings.
He began picking up the magazines and comics and placed them in a neat pile on her dresser, then he gently took the book from Emma's hands, and was surprised to see a piece of paper with Holly's doodles underneath. He closed the book, putting it on the bedside table and looked at the paper. A heart took up most of the page, written inside, EMMA LOVES MY DAD...but a line was through the MY DAD bit and written directly underneath...WOLVERINE. He couldn't help but find this rather amusing. He touched her shoulder gently, "Emma."
A little disoriented, she awoke, and rubbed her eyes, finding his smiling face gazing upon her. She looked at her side, to find Holly sound asleep. She looked at the clock and noticed it was after 10. "The ladies got a little winded I take it." she whispered.
She started to get up, probably to quickly, and wobbled slightly. Stanley caught her in his arms and she felt a bit awkward, but Stanley felt just the opposite, "You know that bunch." referring to the ladies, "incredibly fussy. I really didn't know you could have a discussion about balloons for nearly an hour. The kids won't care what color the damn things are." Emma smiled up at him, then looked back at Holly. She stirred slightly.
Emma motioned her head towards the door, and Stanley followed her lead, not wanting to wake Holly. Once outside the door, Stanley took a last peek and shut it quietly.
"She's okay?"
"Fine. We had a girls night. Laughed and giggled about all sorts of things, and talked about what's happening to her body. It's a little scary for her, but she'll be fine."
He held up the piece of paper he was still holding, "So what's this about?" Emma embarrassed tried to grab it out of his hands and he dodged her and darted into the kitchen. He was laughing. "Wolverine, huh? It's the hair obviously, those mutton chops...I could grow some of those." his hand rubbing his chin, "Might suit me."
"Don't be ridiculous."
"I'm dead serious. If it would endear you to me."
She was slightly embarrassed and headed towards the door picking up her purse, "I should go."
He got a beer out of the fridge. He didn't want to push it. She was obviously still upset about the other day. "I guess I'll see you Friday then."
"Holly asked for me to come over after school. She wants me to help her get ready for her big date with her dad. If that's okay with you."
"I'm all for it. I know how much it would mean to her." He paused, "And me. Having you here tonight....well, I couldn't have dealt with this on my own."
She looked up at him, noticing he still looked like he hadn't been getting much sleep. "Are you still having the nightmares, Stanley?"
He nodded. "not as bad, but they're there. I have been thinking about a lot of things since last week....about the nightmares, things you should know about me."
"Stanley, this can wait."
"I know tonight isn't good. But this weekend...."
She interrupted him, "I don't know what my schedule's like. I only have one more week of school left. And Gary is talking about taking the kids to England for a few weeks during summer vacation...so much is going on."
He was silent. He took a swig of beer and just stared at her. He had pushed her away. He knew that. And now he was trying to fix it, but she didn't seem to be buying it. He didn't blame her. She watched the expression on his face change. He was trying to open up to her....she closed her eyes and moved towards him. This wasn't a good way to leave. She placed a hand on his cheek, stroking it.
"I'm sure I can juggle something around."
"You don't have to do that."
"I want to do that." She pulled his face closer to hers, taking his chin and drawing his mouth towards hers. Kissing him gently on the lips. He managed a smile.
"I don't deserve you."
"I know that...." she teased. There was an awkward silence. She needed to go, but it seemed so hard to leave him. "I'll see you Friday." She slowly walked out to the car and he stood at the door watching her. She turned before she got in the car, he waved. There was still hope. She had to believe that.
* * * * * *
Gail walked into the large sprawling house, laden down with shopping bags...she had spent probably to much, but Jake had insisted on her treating herself. She plopped the Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom's bags onto the floor of the hallway, and listened for any activity. The study door was opened but no sign of Jake. She looked up the staircase and heard some sounds coming from the master bedroom. She followed the sounds.
As she entered the room, she saw Jake packing a suitcase, an empty one lying next to his on the bed. Rod, Bruce and Tim standing off to the side, while he was giving them instructions,
"I want a comfortable, centrally located place near the beach....isnt that what I told you, Bruce?" He waved a piece of paper in the air, "This is not exactly what I had in mind..."
"Well, boss, it's hard to find a rental at this time of year, San Diego is a popular tourist spot."
"Nothing is hard to find, if you are looking in the right place, Bruce. Now get me what I want."
Bruce left the room, passing by Gail. She watched him leave and then looked back at Jake, "What's going on? Are we going somewhere?"
"Gail...Gail....we have a plane to catch in a couple hours, get your bags packed."
She moved closer to him, "Jake, what's this about?"
He looked over at Tim, "Tell her what are friend, Stan has been up to, Tim."
Tim pushed his glasses up his nose, "Well, their was some malfunction in the program, a transfer was made....the funds are gone...and to top it off a few thousand dollars have been donated to an Animal Rights group in Los Angeles. They are incredibly grateful for our generous contribution."
"Nice touch don't you think, Gail? The guy loves animals. How sweet."Jake smiled at Gail, "I'm going to take care of him myself this time."
"Jake, really. I'm sure there is some logical explanation."
"Okay, if there is, I'm ready to hear it. I'll give Stanley the benefit of the doubt. Of course if there isn't, I'll have Rod and Bruce take care of him. For good this time." Gail couldn't believe this was happening. "If you are uncomfortable with this, Gail, you stay here. I should be back by Sunday."
Jake didn't believe in wasting time. "No, I'll go. Let me talk to him first."
"I don't know about that. You didn't get very far last time."
She went to the closet and began to pack some things into the suitcase. "That won't happen again. I won't let you down, Jake." He moved over to her and took her in his arms.
"Well, I hope not. I hope your loyalties are in the right place." He began to kiss her.
"You don't trust me?" She pulled back from him slightly.
He looked straight into her eyes, "Trust? That's good, Gail, coming from you. But you know, I will give you a second chance. Show me the stuff you are made of. Make Stanley suffer. Hit him where it hurts. Let him know he can't play games with me."
"You won't touch his daughter, you have to promise me." He held her really tight, tight enough that it hurt.
"I won't touch his daughter." He kissed her hard and then let her go, continuing his packing, "There are plenty of other ways to make him suffer. He's made it a lot easier to get to him this time around."
"Jake."
He shook his head, "You'll find out soon enough. Come on , we have a plane to catch. Leave it to a woman to hold us up." He latched his case and Rod moved over to it picking it up. Jake just smiled at Gail, patting her on the behind as he left the room, "I have some calls to make. I want you downstairs in 10 minutes. Don't keep me waiting."
Gail knew she had to get out of this situation. But she was so involved. And somehow she had to make sure nothing happened to Stanley. She saw how happy he was. Quite a difference in the Stanley she had met only a year ago living in a trailer, working on oil derricks, desperately trying to get his daughter back. Stanley deserved a good life. She had to get to him before Jake's thugs did.
Saturday evening came around and Kyle was expecting Amy to come over, but he couldn't help but notice his mom frantically tidying up the house. Something she was never overly zealous about. But this weekend she had become a whirlwind, and the house looked immaculate. His door was open and Emma entered not even acknowledging him.
"Did you have a fight with Stanley?" Kyle asked as Emma pushed passed him in a hurry, as she frantically picked up dirty socks and boxers off the floor of his room, and threw them into the laundry basket.
She didn't ;t look at him but continued, "why would you say that?"
"Because you have been frantically cleaning all day. And Stan had his head buried in a computer with headphones all day, I don't even think he broke for lunch. Didn't speak to a soul to anyone."
She stopped and sat down on the edge of his bad in frustration, "It wasn't a fight. I don't know what it was. Somethings wrong."
"With Stan?"
"You work with him. You must have seen the change in him lately."
"He's not getting much sleep,I know that." Kyle felt a bit on the spot. He didn't really have a clue what was going on with him. But he was pretty certain, Stanley was trying to figure out what he was going to say to Emma about his past. Kyle had seen the progress on the house. As far as he knew, he still wanted them to move in. Of course his mom didn't know anything about that either. "You should just call him."
"I won't. "
"Oh, come on , Mom. You are having a rotten weekend and no doubt he is too. You know whatever it is, it will sort itself out."
"I don't know if it will this time." She was serious. Kyle didn't like the look on her face. She looked at the clothes in the basket, she fingered them. She just wanted to cry. What was happening. She didn't want to lose Stanley. But she felt him slipping away from her. And it scared her.
The doorbell rang and brought her back to reality, "That's Amy isn't it?"
Kyle hesitated not wanting to leave her, "you know we should all play a game or something. Trivial Pursuit. I know Melody would love that."
"I have too much to do." She picked up the basket and headed back out into the hall. Kyle followed her and watched her head out to the garage, shaking his head. He didn't like what was happening one bit.
He opened the door, and Amy was smiling at him. Her presence was just what he needed, his worry and concern put on the back burner as she reached out and kissed his cheek. "Kyle, are you alright?"
"I am now."
"It's your mom isn't it?"
God, what a jerk he was. He had this beautiful girl standing here and every time he was with her, he was concerned about his mom. It was becoming a bad habit, and how long would she put up with it. "Why do you say that?"
"Just the vibe I got from today at the shop. And I overheard Brent talking to his girlfriend on the phone. Stanley hasn't broken up with her as he?"
"No...he's just being a guy...not telling her some things." He took her hand, "Don't let me every do that." He lead her into his room.
"What kind of things?" She now seemed concerned too.
He was tempted to show her the disc, to tell her everything. "No one really knows about Stanley before he moved here."
"But you do, don't you?"
"Look, it's none of my business. He's my boss, and he's been good to me."
"This sounds serious, Kyle." Kyle went to his backpack and pulled out the disc. Amy stared at it in confusion.
"I don't have a clue what this means." He popped it into the computer and sat down, he motioned for Amy to shut the door. After she did she stood over him as he began to open the file, absorbed by the images appearing on the screen and Kyle's agility as his fingers flew over the keys. He then abruptly stopped. This time he had accessed the account with no problem and Amy looked at the numbers that appeared on the screen in dollar amount.
"That's a hell of a lot of money. What is this?"
"I was hoping you could tell me. I found it in Stan's desk....by accident."
She looked at it more closely. "It looks like bank accounts in Monte Carlo, Lucerne, Geneva...Luxomberg" All of a sudden a box flashed across the screen...TRANSFER OCCURING ON MAY 4, 2002 DELAYED...SYSTEM ERROR...
Kyle looked back at Amy,"What does that mean?"
"Kyle, have you been playing around with this?"
"No...I'm not stupid."
"It just looks like someone transferred some money and there was some malfunction in the program, so it didn't take place."
"Well, I didn't do it."
"How long have you had the disc?"
Kyle tried to remember when he had taken it. It was going on two weeks. "2 Weeks, I guess." Amy looked at the Japanese Anime calender hanging by the computer and counted back two weeks, she then leaned over him looking into his eyes.
'Kyle that is May fourth. Maybe you hit transfer by accident."
Kyle thought about that day in the shop, with Brent checking up on him and the first time he had hacked into a program. It was the day he had met Amy, he was a bit preoccupied. "I suppose that could have happened." She nudged him out of the chair, and he obliged and she sat down.
Kyle leaned over her as she started opening up files on the program. They meant nothing to her, but she tried to make heads or tales out of them. "Who's money is this?"
"I don't know."
"It's got to be illegal, Kyle. Do you think Stanley would be involved in something illegal?" She was still so amazed the amount of money she saw in front of her on the screen, "No one should have this much money, it's disgusting. They should be giving it to some charities, to people that need it."
Amy was very strong in her beliefs, she was a firm supporter in animal rights, and set aside part of her allowance every week to go to that cause. Kyle rolled his eyes, to him this was much more than than the amount of money. He thought about the possibility of Stanley being involved in something illegal. . He had hacked into the Carnivore program, he had been in Levinworth for 2 years. It was definitely a possibility. She looked up at him and he turned his head, "You know something don't you? About Stanley?"
"Amy, let's just forget about this." He started to take the disc out and she put her hand over the eject button. Their eyes met.
"You wanted to show me this. I'm involved now, so you better tell me what's going on."
He let out a sigh and then sat on the edge of the bed putting his head in his hands. She swiveled the chair around to face him. She took hold of his hands and pulled them away from his face, "It can't be that bad, can it? He's a nice guy."
He looked into her eyes and decided he needed someone to confide in. He had been keeping this to himself for months. "Stan was in prison. He was a hacker....what am I saying ..he was THE hacker. He hacked into some government programs and set them back years. "
Amy didn't seem to shocked, instead found it intriguing, "Really? Good for him." Kyle was a bit surprised. "hey, I think it's great when people stand up for what they believe in...obviously Stanley had strong beliefs and did something about them. Most people are full of talk. Of course he got caught, but he managed to put a fly in the ointment so to speak." Kyle didn't look incredibly happy with her response.
"It's all well and good, you think he's some kind of hero, but he hasn't told my mom."
Amy realized she had said the wrong thing."Kyle, I'm sorry."
"I don't know what to do. I shouldn't know about this stuff," he flung his arm toward the computer screen. "I don't want to find out he's doing something illegal. That he's going to break my mom's heart." Amy moved over to the bed and put her arm around him.
"That's not going to happen. I believe love can conquer all, I know that is so silly. But I do. And they love each other, so things are going to work out. In the meantime, this whole mess...." she waved her hand at the screen. "I think you're damn lucky that transfer didn't go through, because who knows what kind of trouble you would have put yourself and Stanley in." she then smiled, turned back to the screen and pushed a transfer button.
Kyle tried to stop her, "Amy, what are you doing? You just said I was lucky that transfer didn't go through....so what the hell are you up to?" His hand grabbed hers, and she turned looking up at him.
"They won't miss a measly couple thousand, I'm donating it to an Animal Rights group."
"No...Amy, this isn't our money, and it's not a game. This effects my family."
She saw how serious he looked, a message appeared on the screen expecting another command, either continue or cancel. "I'm being selfish, I'm sorry, Kyle. It's just too tempting. I hate seeing this kind of money sitting around, what do you think they are using it for?"
Kyle wondered too, and he had to admit he agreed with her. He started thinking about the possibility of them missing that small amount of money. He leaned over her clicking the mouse to continue...the next command wanted to know the account to transfer to. Amy looked puzzled.
"I thought...."
"You're right, they won't miss it. Go ahead."
"Are you sure?"
He nodded, not really sure at all, but what the hell. Things were already a mess. Amy continued the transfer, and when it was finished she stood and went over to him, putting her arms around him, "Hey, we're in this together. Okay?" He managed a smile, blushing, "and you know something, Mr. Computer Genius, Stanley has some stiff competition here, you hacked into that program Kyle..."
"It's not right, Amy...I did it, and now I feel like shit." she kissed him gently on the lips and it surprised him. He looked tenderly into her eyes.
"Why are you staring at me?" She smiled coyly.
He blushed, "You're something else and I'm so glad I told you... I hated knowing all this stuff, keeping it inside."
"I want to help...anyway I can." She started to kiss him and Kyle nearly melted when there was a pound on the door.
"I'm going to tell Mom, you have the door closed and a girl is in your room. She is going to be so mad!" Melody shouted from the other side. Kyle pulled away from Amy and went to the door, where Melody stood smiling evilly. Satisfied, Melody strolled down the hall to her room.
* * * * * * * *
Emma's weekend went from bad to worse when she got a phone call from Rachel, the following day. "Thank god you're home, Em...." Rachel's voice was frantic, higher pitched than usual, talking very fast, "I thought you might be having a Sunday afternoon rendevous with Stanley...."
Emma sighed. "Not this weekend." Emma wondered if there would ever be another weekend. She hadn't heard from him at all. It was silent for a few seconds, then Rachel continued.
"You aren't going to ask me what's going on? Where I am?"
Emma was in no mood for guessing games, "Okay, where are you?" She said with no enthusiasm.
"Well, don't sound so excited." Rachel said sarcastically.
"How can I sound excited when I don't know what you are talking about?"
Rachel could sense a sharp edge in Emma's voice. Something was wrong, but Rachel couldn't contain herself, "I don't know what's wrong with you, but you aren't going to spoil my day. I called you....you were the first person I thought of."
"what are you talking about...your day?"
Rachel almost felt like crying. "Josh and I are in Las Vegas...we got married 15 minutes ago. But I guess you aren't interested." This hurt her. Emma was her best friend, the one person she shared everything with.
"Married?" Emma was in shock. She wanted to be happy for her, but deep inside she was jealous. Everything seemed to be pointing that way for her, and then Stanley just started behaving differently. She quickly snapped out of her selfish thoughts. "Rachel, of course I'm interested...I can't believe it. But I'm dissapoitned that I'm not there with you."
"I know. It just happened. I wasn't expecting it. Josh just did something so spontaneous....bringing me here, we spent the whole day in bed yesterday, didn't even go down for lunch or to hit the slots. And you know, Josh loves the slot machines." Emma now was holding back tears. What had happened to her and Stanley in the last week, where was their spontaneity, that chemistry they had together?
"Are you really happy for me, Emma? You don't sound it."
"Just having a bad weekend. I am ecstatic for you. So can I have a belated shower for you? I want to do something. You are coming back tomorrow right?"
It was silent on the other end, Emma couldn't help but make out the sound of a kiss. Josh was there with her. Rachel started to giggle, "Sorry, Josh, wants me to get off the phone."
"I can't imagine why." Emma was trying to act as normal as possible. "You better go. I'll see you at school." She closed her eyes, holding back tears, "I am so happy for you, Rachel, really I am."
"You're next. I know it....Stanley is just waiting for the right moment."
Emma didn't say a word. They said their goodbyes and Emma hung up the phone. She sat down on the edge of her bed and slowly laid back. Rolling to her side she clutched the pillow and buried her face in it crying. She cried over everything these days. It was like how it had been when Gary left. She should never have gotten her hopes up about Stanley. Of course, she wasn't meant to have a man like him in her life. Why had she ever thought it could possibly be? She had to get a grip on herself. Life went on, Stanley or no Stanley. But Emma didn't really believe this. For the last few weeks, she had imagined her life with Stanley. It was all she wanted. And now, with every passing day, he seemed to be slipping away from her.
* * * * * * *
Somehow Emma got through the week, despite Rachel's newly wedded glow, and Meg's snide comments about Stanley's absence. Meg was in her face nearly every free moment at school, talking about how crazy he was and that she had every intention of pressing charges. Emma ignored her, knowing she just wanted attention. So she got on with what was important...the last few weeks of school. Wanting to make them extra special for her students. When she was at school, she was happy. At home, another story. Both of her kids sensed something wrong. But she wasn't offering any information. She cried a lot. Over little things. Melody hated it. She worried her mom would fall into the same patterns after her dad had left. It had taken her months to pull herself together and finish up her schooling. Kyle tried to reassure her, that things would work out. But Melody wasn't so sure.
There were only two weeks left of school. The father/daughter dance was the last event of the year. Emma sat quietly in the media center, doodling on her notepad. It was 10 past 7, and they were all waiting for Stanley. Emily secretly hoping he wouldn't show up. The other women were too busy chatting, not really caring about the time. Stanley had been a great addition to the committee, and they were willing to wait.
By 7:30, Emma finally spoke up, "I don't think we should wait. He's not coming." The women all were silent and stared at Emma. All of them were fairly sure something was going on between these two. And found Emma's demeanor very odd.
"I think he'll be here, Emma. He probably was quite busy at work."
She stood up, "Well, I have other things to do. I don't want to wait." She sounded snappy. So not like the Emma Heyward they all knew. She began to pace the floor, and they continued with their inane babble.
* * * * * * * *
It was close to 7pm. Stanley had Mary come over to watch Holly. He had gotten home late, and really shouldn't even go to the damn meeting. But it was the last one. The dance was this Friday and there were still some loose ends to tie up. And he had to admit, he wanted to see Emma. Ever since their last encounter in the shop, Stanley had been going over and over in his head, how he was going to tell her everything. He had refrained from calling her until he had it all sorted out, but so many other things were going on....the shop was extremely busy, there had been a few glitches in the house addition, that needed working out as well. But she was in his thoughts every minute. He was just about to get into the shower, when Mary knocked on the door. He rebuttoned his shirt and went to the door,
"Holly won't come out of the bathroom."
"What?" This was really strange.
"She's crying, I've tried to talk to her. I don't know what it is."
Stanley pushed past her and tried the door handle of the bathroom, it was locked. "Holly, open the door." He hadn't really talked to her since coming home from work, so he was wondering if something had happened at school to cause this scene.
"No, I won't. Go away."
He could hear her sniffling, "What is it, baby?"
"I want Emma." This only frustrated him, what the hell was she playing at.
"Well, I'm sorry, you're stuck with me and Mary."
"Well, I want you both to go away. I'm not coming out."
Stanley looked at Mary confused, "Do you have any idea what's going on?"
Mary shook her head. Stanley took a deep breath, "Holly, you're being ridiculous. I can't help you if I don't know what's going on."
There was silence. He looked at his watch, he was already late for the meeting. Emma was more than likely there. He contemplated going to get her. But his pride won over. He was her father, he could handle this.
"I don't have to go to the meeting. If that's what you want."
"I want you to go away. I don't want you. I told you. I want Emma."
He once again turned to Mary, "So what do I do?"
"I think you should go get Emma." He pondered his next move. "I know you try your best, Stanley, but sometimes a young girl needs a mother figure."
"She won't talk to you either."
Mary chuckled, "Me a mother figure? You have to be kidding. Emma has filled that place for Holly, Stanley. I don't know what has happened between the two of you lately and it's really none of my business, but Holly has become incredibly attached to her."
"We both have." He knew what his decision was that minute. "Could you stay with her for a bit? Give me a call on my cell if you need me." Mary nodded as He headed out to the living room, grabbed his keys and headed out the door.
* * * * * * *
Emma was getting more frustrated by the minute. Why did everyone bow and scrape to this man? She was still pacing the floor when the media center door swung open and a disheavled Stanley walked in. He waltzed straight over to Emma and took her by the arm.
"I need you at home. It's Holly." Emma met his gaze, the concern in his eyes evident. He then realized the ladies staring at him and he managed to smile at them. "I'm sorry, ladies...family crisis. I'm just going to borrow Ms. Heyward here for a few minutes. Shouldn't be long." He began to pull her out of the room, she didn't fight him until they were outside.
She shook free from his grasp, "You just assume I'm going to jump at your beck and call, don't you?"
"This has to do with Holly. I tried to handle the situation but she wants you. Are you going to disappoint her? Do you think you can put whatever it is you're feeling for me aside for Holly's sake?"
Emma felt bad, Stanley was very upset. "What's happened?"
"I don't know. She won't come out of the bathroom for me or Mary. You're the expert on pre-teenagers, you tell me what's wrong."
Emma smiled, "locked herself in the bathroom? I've been there before, and so has Melody." Stanley looked at her confused, "I'll meet you at your house."
"You can ride with me."
"I just need to pick something up at the store. I won't be a minute. Just go back to Holly."
"She doesn't want anything to do with me."
"You'd be surprised what she wants." Stanley had no idea what she was talking about. As she opened her car door, Stanley called her name.
"I appreciate this, Emma."
"I'm glad to help out. You know how I feel about Holly."
"But after the other day..."
She put her hand up, "We're not going to get into that now. Holly is what is important now." She was looking at him, their eyes locked onto each other for a brief moment...she wasn't imagining it. That look she had seen time and time again. The one that made her melt, the one that sent shivers down her spine. The thoughts that had run through her mind the last few days put aside, she wasn't going to give up on him. Not yet.
She smiled at him as she closed the car door and drove off down the street.
When Stanley got back to the house, the situation hadn't changed. Mary was surprised he was alone, "No luck with Emma?" she questioned as she picked up her purse to leave.
He smiled, "She's on her way."
She patted Stanley's shoulder smiling, "Good. You two belong together, Stanley and whatever problems you're having, work them out, for all your sakes...not just for Holly.:"
Stanley saw her out and then headed back to the bathroom door, Holly was crying. He leaned up against the door, hoping Emma would get there soon. "Baby?"
"Is she here...Emma?"
"She's on her way." Stanley heard a rap at the door and went to open it. Emma stood there with a small bag in her hand, she had seen the mess out front and now as she entered the living room, saw the construction still in progress.
"You're adding onto your house again?"
He nodded. "Finding it a bit cramped." Emma found this hard to believe. It was a perfect house for two people and a dog.
"It's going to be nice."
"I think so..." he felt a bit awkward, "Holly....she's..:"
Emma walked past him, "I know where the bathroom is." She went to the door and Stanley followed.
"Holly, it's Emma."
The whimpering had stopped and Emma could tell she had come towards the door, "Is my Dad there?"
Emma turned to look at Stanley, and he shook his head, not wanting her to say yes. "He's here. He's worried about you."
"I won't open the door until he goes away." Emma turned to Stanley.
"Go on, make yourself scarce. Maybe go back to the meeting."
Stanley put up a protest, "I'm not going anywhere until I find out what's going on. I'm her father remember?"
"No one has forgotten that fact." She could tell he was feeling like a failure as a father at this moment. "And a good one." she added to reassure him.
"Right." he commented sarcastically. "I can't even get my daughter out of the bathroom."
She gave him a little push, and he headed down the hall reluctantly and into his room. He turned as he entered the room, "You'll come and get me if you need anything."
"Of course." He then disappeared into the bedroom. Emma refocused on Holly, "He's gone."
"You're not just saying that?"
"No, he's really gone." Emma heard the click of the lock, and the door slowly opened. Emma pushed it open and found Holly crouched on the floor clutching her legs up against her. Her blood stained underpants lying on the floor. Holly bent her head in shame. And Emma crouched down next to her, smiling and pushing her hair off her face. "It's okay, Holly." She opened the bag and pulled out the sanitary pads inside.
"How did you know?" Holly was amazed.
"I hid myself in the bathroom too when it happened to me. And Melody did as well. It's pretty traumatic the first time. But you get used to it and it's nothing to be ashamed of."
"I don't want my dad to know. He thinks I'm his baby."
"Well, you are. You'll always be his baby. And he'll have to know, Holly, I can tell him, if you want." She stroked her face, "Why don't you get in the shower, and I'll go get your pajamas and some clean underwear and then we can talk."
"but Dad..."
"I'll get rid of him."
"You think you can?":
"I think so."
"I'm glad you came, Emma. I just didn't want to talk to Dad about this."
"That's understandable. This is a girls thing. And an important day in your life, one men don't really understand." Holly managed a smile. Relieved to have Emma there. There had been so many questions, ones she hadn't felt comfortable talking to her dad about. All of her friends had moms to talk to. And now she had Emma.
Emma left her to take a shower and went to Holly's room. She wasn't surprised when she found Stanley had joined her, "So is she okay?"
"She's okay. She just needed a woman that's all."
"Is that all your going to tell me." Emma pulled out some pajamas and underwear from her top drawer and then turned to face him.
"You're daughter started her period."
Stanley was in shock, "She's only 11...that can't be."
"Melody started at 11 too. It's happened Stanley and Holly is a bit overwhelmed, not having a mother...or a woman she can talk to."
"I need to go talk to her." He began to leave the room and Emma moved towards him grabbing his arm.
"No, she doesn't want you around right now. You need to respect her privacy. Her body is changing and she's finding your presence a bit uncomfortable right now."
"That's ridiculous. I'm her father."
"I know it's not what you want to hear. But you better start getting used to it."
"So what am I supposed to do?"
"Give her some space, I told her I'd get rid of you. So we can talk."
"She wants to be with you." he said a little jealous, feeling shut out. "She needs a mother, is that right?"
Emma was a bit embarrassed. "Well, she needs a woman, that's all."
"Then why couldn't Mary deal with it? She wanted you. Explain that to me."
"I'm her teacher, she spends more time with me than any other female. It's only natural she would turn to me." She wanted to get out of the room but he was blocking the doorway. His hand raised above his head resting on the door frame. Her eyes at his chest, she looked down at her feet, trying to recompose herself. He looked so incredibly enticing. "You go to the meeting. I'm sure when you get back everything will be fine."
"With Holly?" he had been watching her the last few minutes, he missed her touch, he missed having his arms around her. He couldn't get over how great she looked in those jeans and that spaghetti strap top, showing just the slightest amount of cleavage. Of course she was trying to cover it with her sweater, but it didn't work. Stanley took in a deep breath, he already knew what lie underneath and found himself getting turned on.
"yes, of course with Holly. Who else would I be talking about?" Emma was fully aware of the looks he was throwing her way, she tried to avoid his gaze, pulling her sweater around her chest, after noticing his gaze falling upon her breasts.
"And what about you?" trying to get those thoughts out of his mind, it was so hard with her standing so close.
"What about me?"
"I was just wondering how you are? Are you fine?" He was doing it again, that soft sexy voice....those eyes, his eyebrows raised.
"I just want to make sure Holly is situated and comfortable. It's a very traumatic thing she's going through. I'll stay with her til you get back."
"That's not what I asked you?" Emma heard the shower turn off.
"I need to get to Holly. Are you going to let me go through?" inches away from him he moved a little closer his body rubbing against hers. He wasn't about to budge.
"Emma..." Holly's voice called out from the bathroom. Stanley returned to reality....his daughter...that is why Emma was here, not for him. He turned towards her voice. Perfect opportunity for Emma to duck under his arm and escape into the bathroom. Quickly closing the door behind her, leaning against it she sighed. That was too close. Holly wrapped in a towel, looked at her strangely. Emma smiled, handing her the things in her arms, when there was movement on the other side of the door.
Stanley's voice sounded a little disappointed and distant, "I guess I'm going to the meeting." There was a pause, "If that's what you want, Holly."
"I'm fine, Dad. Emma's here. You go ahead to the meeting."
There was an awkward silence for a brief moment, Emma could tell by the sound of Stanley's voice he wasn't extremely pleased with being kicked out of his own house by his daughter.
Then he spoke, "Emma, open the door." She cracked the door and his face was now inches from hers. His hand went up and stroked her cheek. Emma closed her eyes, his touch that she had missed in the past few days, making her feel alive again. "I have so much to say to you."
"Stanley, this isn't the time."
"I know. We can work this out right? Us?"
Emma paused, she wanted that more than anything. "It's highly possible..." he leaned in, not knowing if she would let him kiss her or not. But pleasantly surprised when her lips met his. As they parted he stood there smiling at her, and she lowered her head briefly feeling the blush rise in her cheeks. Lifting her head slowly his gaze still fixed on her.
She gave him a shove through the door, "You need to go. What would the Dance committee do without your wit and charm and those incredible leadership skills you possess. They hang on your every word."
He laughed, "Very funny, Em."
"I'm not exagerating. They do."
He gave her the evil eye and headed down the hall, from the front door he called out, "I'll make sure they know what your duty is Friday night."
He was not surprised to find her standing in the entry way eying him, "What's that suppose to mean?"
He raised his eyebrows, "you'll just have to wait and see, won't you?" With a skip in his step he headed out the door.
The meeting lasted longer than expected and when Stanley entered the house, he found Emma and Holly on her bed, both asleep. There were teen magazines, Xmen comics and various pieces of paper with some of Holly's newly acquired drawing skills(ala Melody). Across Emma's chest was one of Holly's fairy tale books about knights and princesses. Holly was clutching her rabbit tightly. He smiled at the sight. She was still his little girl. All night the thought of this new change in her, scared him. What the hell did he know about girls and this kind of thing? Emma had saved the day,...Emma...He smiled at her sleeping figure. Tonight just brought him one step closer to getting everything out in the open. He desperately wanted her in his life full time. And this little scenario only heightened those feelings.
He began picking up the magazines and comics and placed them in a neat pile on her dresser, then he gently took the book from Emma's hands, and was surprised to see a piece of paper with Holly's doodles underneath. He closed the book, putting it on the bedside table and looked at the paper. A heart took up most of the page, written inside, EMMA LOVES MY DAD...but a line was through the MY DAD bit and written directly underneath...WOLVERINE. He couldn't help but find this rather amusing. He touched her shoulder gently, "Emma."
A little disoriented, she awoke, and rubbed her eyes, finding his smiling face gazing upon her. She looked at her side, to find Holly sound asleep. She looked at the clock and noticed it was after 10. "The ladies got a little winded I take it." she whispered.
She started to get up, probably to quickly, and wobbled slightly. Stanley caught her in his arms and she felt a bit awkward, but Stanley felt just the opposite, "You know that bunch." referring to the ladies, "incredibly fussy. I really didn't know you could have a discussion about balloons for nearly an hour. The kids won't care what color the damn things are." Emma smiled up at him, then looked back at Holly. She stirred slightly.
Emma motioned her head towards the door, and Stanley followed her lead, not wanting to wake Holly. Once outside the door, Stanley took a last peek and shut it quietly.
"She's okay?"
"Fine. We had a girls night. Laughed and giggled about all sorts of things, and talked about what's happening to her body. It's a little scary for her, but she'll be fine."
He held up the piece of paper he was still holding, "So what's this about?" Emma embarrassed tried to grab it out of his hands and he dodged her and darted into the kitchen. He was laughing. "Wolverine, huh? It's the hair obviously, those mutton chops...I could grow some of those." his hand rubbing his chin, "Might suit me."
"Don't be ridiculous."
"I'm dead serious. If it would endear you to me."
She was slightly embarrassed and headed towards the door picking up her purse, "I should go."
He got a beer out of the fridge. He didn't want to push it. She was obviously still upset about the other day. "I guess I'll see you Friday then."
"Holly asked for me to come over after school. She wants me to help her get ready for her big date with her dad. If that's okay with you."
"I'm all for it. I know how much it would mean to her." He paused, "And me. Having you here tonight....well, I couldn't have dealt with this on my own."
She looked up at him, noticing he still looked like he hadn't been getting much sleep. "Are you still having the nightmares, Stanley?"
He nodded. "not as bad, but they're there. I have been thinking about a lot of things since last week....about the nightmares, things you should know about me."
"Stanley, this can wait."
"I know tonight isn't good. But this weekend...."
She interrupted him, "I don't know what my schedule's like. I only have one more week of school left. And Gary is talking about taking the kids to England for a few weeks during summer vacation...so much is going on."
He was silent. He took a swig of beer and just stared at her. He had pushed her away. He knew that. And now he was trying to fix it, but she didn't seem to be buying it. He didn't blame her. She watched the expression on his face change. He was trying to open up to her....she closed her eyes and moved towards him. This wasn't a good way to leave. She placed a hand on his cheek, stroking it.
"I'm sure I can juggle something around."
"You don't have to do that."
"I want to do that." She pulled his face closer to hers, taking his chin and drawing his mouth towards hers. Kissing him gently on the lips. He managed a smile.
"I don't deserve you."
"I know that...." she teased. There was an awkward silence. She needed to go, but it seemed so hard to leave him. "I'll see you Friday." She slowly walked out to the car and he stood at the door watching her. She turned before she got in the car, he waved. There was still hope. She had to believe that.
* * * * * *
Gail walked into the large sprawling house, laden down with shopping bags...she had spent probably to much, but Jake had insisted on her treating herself. She plopped the Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom's bags onto the floor of the hallway, and listened for any activity. The study door was opened but no sign of Jake. She looked up the staircase and heard some sounds coming from the master bedroom. She followed the sounds.
As she entered the room, she saw Jake packing a suitcase, an empty one lying next to his on the bed. Rod, Bruce and Tim standing off to the side, while he was giving them instructions,
"I want a comfortable, centrally located place near the beach....isnt that what I told you, Bruce?" He waved a piece of paper in the air, "This is not exactly what I had in mind..."
"Well, boss, it's hard to find a rental at this time of year, San Diego is a popular tourist spot."
"Nothing is hard to find, if you are looking in the right place, Bruce. Now get me what I want."
Bruce left the room, passing by Gail. She watched him leave and then looked back at Jake, "What's going on? Are we going somewhere?"
"Gail...Gail....we have a plane to catch in a couple hours, get your bags packed."
She moved closer to him, "Jake, what's this about?"
He looked over at Tim, "Tell her what are friend, Stan has been up to, Tim."
Tim pushed his glasses up his nose, "Well, their was some malfunction in the program, a transfer was made....the funds are gone...and to top it off a few thousand dollars have been donated to an Animal Rights group in Los Angeles. They are incredibly grateful for our generous contribution."
"Nice touch don't you think, Gail? The guy loves animals. How sweet."Jake smiled at Gail, "I'm going to take care of him myself this time."
"Jake, really. I'm sure there is some logical explanation."
"Okay, if there is, I'm ready to hear it. I'll give Stanley the benefit of the doubt. Of course if there isn't, I'll have Rod and Bruce take care of him. For good this time." Gail couldn't believe this was happening. "If you are uncomfortable with this, Gail, you stay here. I should be back by Sunday."
Jake didn't believe in wasting time. "No, I'll go. Let me talk to him first."
"I don't know about that. You didn't get very far last time."
She went to the closet and began to pack some things into the suitcase. "That won't happen again. I won't let you down, Jake." He moved over to her and took her in his arms.
"Well, I hope not. I hope your loyalties are in the right place." He began to kiss her.
"You don't trust me?" She pulled back from him slightly.
He looked straight into her eyes, "Trust? That's good, Gail, coming from you. But you know, I will give you a second chance. Show me the stuff you are made of. Make Stanley suffer. Hit him where it hurts. Let him know he can't play games with me."
"You won't touch his daughter, you have to promise me." He held her really tight, tight enough that it hurt.
"I won't touch his daughter." He kissed her hard and then let her go, continuing his packing, "There are plenty of other ways to make him suffer. He's made it a lot easier to get to him this time around."
"Jake."
He shook his head, "You'll find out soon enough. Come on , we have a plane to catch. Leave it to a woman to hold us up." He latched his case and Rod moved over to it picking it up. Jake just smiled at Gail, patting her on the behind as he left the room, "I have some calls to make. I want you downstairs in 10 minutes. Don't keep me waiting."
Gail knew she had to get out of this situation. But she was so involved. And somehow she had to make sure nothing happened to Stanley. She saw how happy he was. Quite a difference in the Stanley she had met only a year ago living in a trailer, working on oil derricks, desperately trying to get his daughter back. Stanley deserved a good life. She had to get to him before Jake's thugs did.