Note: My husband asked if he could guest-write a scene. Since he pays for my website I obliged (LMAO the writer sells out to fund her project!). You may have to read multiple times to identify his contribution as it meshes seamlessly with my prose ;-)
Feasibility Study
Written by: Ms Maggs / Edited by: KJT
Chapter 102: Getting It Back – Part 13
August 27, 2005 (Day 127)
The Bellagio Pool
11:55 a.m.
The three ladies had been sunning by the picture-perfect pool for thirty minutes when Sara's cell phone rang. "It's Gil." She stood to leave the pool area for privacy. "I'm going to take this inside. If the waitress comes back would you order me a bottle of water, please?"
"Sure thing, Honey," Jillian replied while flipping to the next page of A Voice for the Dead, A Forensic Investigator's Pursuit of the Truth in the Grave. When she had spoken to Nick on the phone the previous day, he mentioned buying a copy. Later, when she saw it at the airport she bought it so she could read it and discuss it with him during the visit.
"So what is that book about exactly?" Tawny asked as she rubbed another dose of lotion on her bronzing skin. "If it's good, maybe I should pick up a copy for Greg."
"It's about exhuming bodies and using cutting edge forensic technology to solve cold cases, I'm sure he'd love it." Jillian lowered the hardcover book and explained, "It's very similar to what Nick, Gil and Greg did when working the Rodgers case. I read all the court transcripts. That case itself would make a fascinating book. Hmm…maybe I should write it and make my boy, your man, and Sara's husband look like forensic superheroes."
Tawny gushed with enthusiasm. "Ooh that would make Greg look great in his dad's eyes. Do you really know how to write a book?"
"I've had two published already. They weren't bestsellers because of the subject matter, but they did well in legal circles."
"Then you have to do it!"
"I wouldn't feel right without Wendy Blake's blessing," Jillian remarked. "It is her family's story. But…I'll run it by Carrie and see if she thinks Wendy would be open to the idea. I could arrange for all the proceeds after expenses to go to Wendy's family."
"Oh!" Tawny bolted straight up. "I was babysitting for her Thursday and it was really clear they could use a little financial help."
"Now I'm even more enthused."
"But it doesn't seem fair for you to do all the work and not get any money for it."
Jillian patted the youngster's arm. "When you're my age and you're financially comfortable with a successful career behind you and bevy of kids and grandkids to be proud of, you're motivated differently. I'd be doing it to keep busy and challenge my brain." She snickered before confessing, "Plus it would give me great joy to see the pissed off look on my son Andy's face when he learns I've written a book bragging about Nicky."
"He's on your shit list, huh?"
"Somethin' fierce." Standing up she placed her book on the lounger. "I'm tired of waiting. I'm going to rustle up some bottles of water for us. Be right back, Sugar."
Deciding it was time to sun her flipside, Tawny turned on her belly and closed her eyes.
"You'll burn if you don't put something on your back," The thirty-seven year old man with a perfect tan and a killer smile commented, while taking a seat in the empty lounge chair. "How about I put some of this lotion on for you?" He picked up the tube sitting on the table.
Turning over, Tawny removed the tube from the man's hand. "Thanks, but I put some on earlier."
"Can I get you a drink?"
"My mama is gettin' me one right now," She informed the pervert leering at her breasts. "You should mosey before she returns, she don't like me talkin' to strangers." Tawny returned to lying on her belly to block his view.
"How about going out with me tonight once mama goes to bed?" He asked while staring at the goddess's ass. "My name is Dan and I'm in town on business. I've been looking for a beautiful woman to spoil and when I saw you I knew you were the one."
"Sorry, I'm in a serious relationship and my boyfriend wouldn't like that."
"I don't see a ring on your finger so, he can't be too serious."
Tawny wished she was still wearing Mrs. Stokes's ring so she could shove it in the guy's face and yell, taken. Taken! It would be even better if she had a ring of her own to prove she had a man in her life.
"Come on…give me a chance. We'll order room service and a great bottle of champagne. You're too young to be tied down to a guy. Have a little fun."
"Look …"
"Excuse me," Mrs. Stokes snipped at the man hovering over Tawny. "You're in my spot and you're bothering my daughter. Beat it before I call security."
Tawny smiled and waved at the man. "I told you Mama don't like me talkin' to strangers."
Dan stood and winked at Tawny. "Too bad…I think we'd have a lot of fun together."
The Excalibur
12:14 p.m.
Since Sofia and Irving were hitting it off due to mutual interests in workouts, motorcycles and Thai food, Greg decided his work was done. "Okay, kids," He teased as he stood. "Have fun, and should the opportunity arise…don't forget to practice safe sex."
Grissom, who just returned from talking to Sara, cringed at the terribly forward assumption.
"What?" Greg laughed at his uptight friend. "I'm obligated to preach what I didn't practice."
Sofia sat back laughing. "Don't worry, Sanders, I'm a much better boy scout than you. I'm always prepared and I'm not afraid to sleep in the woods."
"You like camping?" Irving asked. Sofia was getting more attractive with each topic change.
"Love it." Tossing her long golden hair off her shoulder she explained, "Growing up that's all we did for vacations. I love hiking, climbing and mountain biking too."
Irving nodded enthusiastically. "I'm a volunteer big brother and I just helped chaperone for the Boys and Girls Club. I love camping and I led some of the older kids on a ten mile hike in the Spring Mountains. It was great."
"You're a volunteer big brother?" Sofia couldn't believe how much they had in common. "I volunteer at the girl's shelter on Main and Conley."
Greg tossed his arm around Grissom's shoulder and led him away singing from Fiddler on the Roof. "Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match…find me a find…catch me a catch."
"Very nice."
"My mom's high school did that play when I was growing up. I know every song by heart."
"Chuckles!" Theo Valentine, Greg's neighbor and top Court Jester for the Excalibur, called out. "I knew it was you. I'd recognize that golden voice anywhere!"
"Theo!" He looked very different dressed in his clown attire.
Theo cracked a sunny smile. "So you ditched the Diva for a Sugar Daddy...smart choice."
Greg removed his arm from Grissom's shoulder. "Actually…"
"Hey!" Theo stared at Greg's new love. "You're that freaky guy with the bugs who lived in 17 before Greg." Glancing back at his newest friend Theo advised, "I'm not sure this is a trade up from the Diva. This guy's a real wingnut."
"I know…he was my boss for six years." Greg laughed. "Now we're buddies."
"Or so Greg would like to think," Grissom groaned, more than ready to return to the Bellagio and most of all, Sara."
In between hard coughs Greg taunted, "Life in danger…how quickly they forget…thanks a lot."
"Greg's my best friend," Grissom announced with a lilt in his voice. "Why don't you sing some more?" He spoke directly to Theo. "I can't get enough of his melodic voice."
"Duet with me, Theo," Greg enthused. "Matchmaker, matchmaker, I'll bring the veil."
Theo batted his eyes and grabbed Greg's arm. "You bring the groom. Slender and pale."
Trying not to laugh he sang the next line. "Bring me a ring for I'm longing to be…the envy of all I see."
The Bellagio
Outside the South Chapel
12:21 a.m.
After Tawny's uncomfortable encounter by the pool, the ladies had opted to go inside the hotel to cool off while waiting for Gil and Greg to return.
"Look how happy they are," Tawny declared to Sara and Mrs. Stokes before releasing a wistful sigh. The bride and groom who just emerged from the ceremony were beaming from ear to ear. "They look just as happy as the couple I saw coming out of the chapel at the Mandalay Bay last week. I hope Greg and I are just like them."
Jillian placed her arm around the hopeless romantic's shoulder. "They always look happy on the wedding day, Sugar. You want to be like the couples who are still wearing smiles after twenty years."
"How long have you and Judge Stokes been married?" Sara quizzed. She was always looking for a success story since her parents were the ultimate failures at the endeavor.
"Forty-seven years. That's three-hundred and twenty nine dog years. The grandkids always get a chuckle out of that." She gave Tawny's shoulders a squeeze. "I got married at twenty-one, in between college and law school and I had my first baby during my break between years two and three. So, don't you let anyone tell you that you can't get an education after getting married and having babies. You dig in your heels and go for it, Darlin'."
"I promise." She bathed in the maternal attention Mrs. Stokes had been lavishing. "Do you think they'd let us peek inside the chapel now that it's empty?"
Jillian headed right for the chapel door. "Doesn't hurt to try."
Following the women, Sara reminisced about her own chapel wedding a month ago. As hard as she tried, she couldn't recall anything other than the blissful look in Gil's eyes and the beautiful words they exchanged. Even with all the excitement surrounding Carrie's big wedding and now Tawny's, Sara realized if she could go back, she wouldn't change a thing about the ceremony with Gil. It was beautiful, private and perfect in her eyes…just like her husband.
"It's beautiful!" Tawny exclaimed as she wandered down the aisle. "Sara, don't you think it matches the style of my dress? And the colors of these flowers match the ones embroidered in it. They would be perfect!"
"I think you're absolutely right." Sara strolled closer and took in the ambiance. "This place is very you, Tawny. Romantic, well-appointed and eye-catching."
Just then the chapel coordinator bounded over. "I'm sorry but you need to make an appointment if…"
"Really?" Jillian stared authoritatively and read the woman's nametag. "We didn't at The Mandalay Bay but, perhaps they're more focused on customer service over there. We're sorry for the inconvenience, Ruth. We'll take our business elsewhere. I'm sure there are numerous other beautiful locations in this town that would love to take some of my family's Texas oil money for a big 'ol catered reception following an elegant chapel ceremony." Grinning, she turned and took Tawny's hand, placing her diamond ring on the girl's finger. "You have a nice day."
Sara stepped aside, watching Mrs. Stokes work her magic.
"Wait!" Ruth hurried after the three women. "Forgive me…please!"
"I'm sorry, did you say something, Dear?" Jillian paused, waiting for a bit more sucking up.
"I'd love to run through what we have to offer and afterwards, the three of you can have lunch anywhere in the hotel you'd like, compliments of the house."
Jillian turned to Tawny. "It's up to you, Sweetheart."
"Well…" She made sure Ruth saw the rock on her left hand.
Sara looked on in disbelief when she heard Tawny speak with a perfect Texas drawl.
"I think I need to know what it would be like here at night." She glanced over at Ruth and tucked her hair behind her ears to show off her diamond studs. "You see…we're fixin' to hold a real ritzy evenin' affair."
Ruth stepped closer and smiled brighter. "Give me a moment and I'll see if we have a suite available for you tonight. I'll be right back."
"Unbelievable," Sara remarked when they were alone in the chapel again.
Tawny giggled as she clutched Mrs. Stokes's hands. "Ruthie don't know I'm all hat, no cattle."
Jillian was thoroughly charmed by the girl. "Sugar, you said you were from Kansas so, where is that accent and the lingo coming from?"
"Pleeeease don't tell Nick," Tawny begged as she cringed. "I dated a teasip from 'that other school' when I was eighteen and really stupid. Nick's fine with me being an ex-dancer and party girl, but he'd never look at me the same if he knew I slept with the enemy."
"You've got that right."
When she saw Sara was lost, Tawny filled in the blanks. "Nick's an Aggie. A teasip is a student from University of Texas."
"Let's hope Carrie doesn't havethat skeleton in her closet too." Jillian belly laughed. "No matter how far gone my son is over her, he'll be asking for his ring."
Big Sky Ranch
12:26 p.m.
Leaning against the wood fence of the main corral, Nick wore an endless smile as he watched Carrie slowly trot Shy. "You're lookin' awfully good there, Darlin'." He had taken off the lunging rein ten minutes ago when he saw how in control she was of her emotions and the horse.
"I think that was my best lap yet!" She boasted, thrilled with her success. "Do you think I'm ready to go a little faster?"
"No, I think you need to stay where you're at." He loved her enthusiasm but knew first hand the danger of too little knowledge and too much desire. "Don't worry, you'll get to feel some speed real soon. Take her around a few more times at the same pace."
Ren's father, Bo Clarke, came up to the fence. "She may be a natural."
"She's determined that's for sure," Nick replied through a grin. "Already wants to gallop."
"She's spunky, so was my wife…God rest her soul." Bo leaned on the fence. "Ren and I lost her two years back. It was rough on us both."
"My condolences," Nick said softly. "Carrie lost her mom when she was twenty-one and she's still hurting. Two years must still feel like yesterday."
"Yeah…" Bo adjusted his hat a little lower.
"Is that how you ended up leaving Montana?" Nick posited. "Carrie and her dad moved to Seattle to get a fresh start after her mom died."
"No, we've been down here ten years now. Came down when Ren was eighteen." He pointed to the mini-van in the distance. "We came here for Whispering Pines." Bo caught Nick's eyes. "You see…we were embroiled in a bit of a scandal back in Montana."
"Sorry…I didn't mean to pry."
"Your job requires you to be curious." Bo patted his guest on the back. "Don't worry, you didn't offend me. And it's no secret, so Ren won't mind me tellin' ya. You've got to be honest about your past he'd say. He tells the story to all the rehab groups hoping it helps them somehow."
Nick's smile returned. "I bet that's why he and Carrie make natural friends."
Bo continued the story. "Ren and his girlfriend got heavy into drugs. You know…small town Saturday nights get boring and everyone parties when they're young. They however, took it to an extreme. Once we caught on and helped him, Ren shook the habit, but Kelly couldn't. We brought her here when her family kicked her out. She was four months pregnant at the time."
With his eyes on Carrie, Nick listened intently. "I'm guessin' it didn't work out between them because Ren's single."
"No, she cleaned up." Bo's voice sobered a little further. "It was too late though. The baby, a little girl, was born still about three months early…effects of the drug abuse. We knew Kelly was taking it hard but…" He shook his head. "One day the guilt overwhelmed her and she rode out to the woods and took her life."
"That's horrible," Nick blurted, not expecting the heartbreaking ending. "Sorry…I should have been more tactful but…"
"It's okay. There's not much else you can say." Bo nodded. "That's why it's a good story for the rehab patients…it's shocking. Sure as hell shocked us at the time," He somberly stated. "We knew something was wrong when the horse came back with blood on her. We figure, she had been trying to rouse Kelly for a while. Those were some black days around here but, we made it through."
"Is that why Ren volunteered to run this program?"
"Yeah…he's still trying to save her I suppose. Now he helps save them…or some of them anyway." Bo sighed. "They don't all make it. They come here nine times during their twenty-eight days, you'd think that wouldn't be enough time to care about them but you do…especially the young ones who can't grasp they have their whole life ahead of them."
"My boss's daughter is checking into Whispering Pines today," Nick informed the solemn man. "Carrie and I took a tour before we came here. Seems like a real good place with a good philosophy and solid post-care program."
"One of the best. That's why we chose it." Bo glanced up. "What's the girl's name? I'll make sure Ren makes an extra effort with her."
Jim Brass's Car
12:31 p.m.
"Ellie?"
She sat forward, leaning towards the front seats. "Yeah, Dad?"
"I was asking which drive-thru you wanted."
"Taco Bell. Three crunchy and a large diet soda." She glanced over at Heather. "So you and my dad are spending the night in Flagstaff, huh? Isn't Saturday night your biggest money maker? Shouldn't you be there cracking the whip?"
"Actually, Thursdays are the busiest most weeks due to convention business. The men think about taking a little adventure during the week and then get the nerve up to come in before leaving to return home on Fridays." She smiled. "We always staff up for plenty of walk-ins."
"Maybe I could work for you when I'm clean."
Jim quipped, "Right after I enter the priesthood."
Both women eyed him with contempt and Heather pointedly remarked, "So, it's good enough for me but not your daughter?"
"I think she needs something a little more mainstream after getting out of rehab."
Heather couldn't have disagreed more. "I can guarantee you there are no drugs on my premises. You won't find that guarantee at any restaurant, office or casino in this town. And if it's the work you're worried about, she could take a support job."
Ellie laughed. "Hell no. I want to dominate some assholes…get a little payback for the shit I've taken."
Hodges's Apartment
12:45 p.m.
Lying under the covers, Celeste held up her frosty mug of cream soda. "Here's to the asshole who ruined my life."
"And to the bitch who ruined mine!" He clanked his mug to hers. "Thanks for doing us a favor, losers."
"Exactly." She leaned in for a cream-flavored kiss. "Oh no!"
"What?" Hodges slapped the unscarred side of his head. "I should have brushed."
"No, I need to go home and feed my ferrets. I'm not used to staying out all night." Just as she was about to toss the sheet and jump out of bed she froze. "Um…I'm naked."
"I know. I am too." He radiated from joy as he recalled the memories. "Wait! Are you having regrets?" Hodges panicked. "I swear I don't think poorly of you because it was our first date. It was kismet…fate…destiny..."
"Mr. Thesaurus!" She chuckled. "To quote Bridget Jones, I just don't want you to see my wobbly bits."
"But I love your body."
"You do?"
Grinning he assured her, "I loved it all night long and this morning, after we ate Fruit Loops in bed watching episode fourteen of The Six Million Dollar Man, I loved it even more."
"Really?" She swooned. "You don't think I need to lose those thirty pounds I've gained since getting dumped at the altar?"
"Not for me."
"But what about my ferrets?" She saddened. "You're so allergic…not to mention deathly afraid of them. You'll never be able to come to my place."
"I'll get shots! I'll do some desensitization therapy!" Taking her hand he whispered, "You're worth needle pokes and ferret trauma."
Celeste's eyes twinkled in the midday sun streaming into the room. "Wow…"
The Bellagio
Pool Café
1:32 p.m.
"Whoa…" Greg clutched the key card Tawny gave him. "You scored a luxury suite without gambling a dime?" Upon returning with Grissom, he headed to the poolside restaurant as Tawny had instructed when she called his cell. Grissom however, opted to reunite with his wife in their room for a lunch time romp.
"That's right, Chuckles! We're running with the big dogs tonight!" Tawny squealed with delight. "And room service dinner is included because they want us to sample their food."
"And they're buying us lunch too," Jillian informed the stunned young man with the goofy hair as she sipped her Cosmopolitan. "Don't feel guilty. It serves them right for being a bunch of elitist snoots. They only showed us respect once they believed we had my family's old oil money to burn. What they don't know is…the only oil money my family ever had when I was growing up, was the kind used to buy a quart for the car." She snickered, "Tawny and I make a fabulous team. She's going to be one hell of a Public Defender some day because she's a girl who understands a book's cover doesn't tell the whole story and not everyone is guilty when charged."
Tawny raised her virgin Mai-Tai and clinked it against her newest mentor's glass.
Greg nodded while trying to comprehend what he just heard. "You're um…planning on going to law school, Sweetie?"
"Yes!" Tawny bubbled as forcefully as the hot tub nearby. "I've found my true calling."
"But you're gifted in math," Greg countered after sipping his ice water. "And that's another three years after you get your bachelor's."
"She's twenty-two and has her whole life ahead of her." Jillian relaxed in her chair. "And she's suited for the courtroom because she has the gift of the gab…like you, Greg. You two must wear each other's tongues out and I don't mean that in the Parisian sense."
Tawny looked over at her grinning man. "She's way funnier than Nick, isn't she? He must take after his dad."
"Nick used to be funnier," Greg replied. "He's got a lot more responsibility now and it's made him very serious."
Jillian couldn't resist. "Maybe my ex-man-slut of a son will be funnier again if he gets the sex-a-thon cure you think he needs."
"Tawny!" He couldn't believe his ears. "You told her what I said! You do remember Nick is my boss, right?" Suddenly he was relieved that he still had that California job offer to consider.
"Chill out, Chuckles." Tawny stood to answer her tenth restroom calling of the day. "I didn't tell her, she overheard Sara and me chatting in the spa. And she's not ticked. She thought it was funny…and most likely accurate. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to powder my nose."
Once he was alone with his girlfriend's partner in wedding planning crime, Greg nervously cleared his throat and asked, "With all due respect, Mrs. Stokes…don't you think it's putting the cart before the horse to help Tawny plan a wedding before I propose?"
Jillian removed her sunglasses and eyed the young man curiously. "That's a rather hypocritical statement coming from a guy who ate supper before saying Grace." Jillian patted his hand. "It's time to shell down the corn, Romeo."
Greg cocked his head. "Huh? I haven't even ordered."
She gladly translated. "Honey, you got your girlfriend knocked up and asked her to live with you before walking her down the aisle, so I'm a bit surprised to hear you getting ruffled over the proper order in which events should occur. Time's up. That girl needs a ring on her finger before her belly is as big as her boobs."
"Got it!" He began enthusiastically looking at the brochures Tawny had thrust at him when he arrived at the table. "She probably told you that I haven't spilled the beans to my dad yet because I've been too nervous."
"Yes, she did." Jillian sipped her drink then followed up. "Funny how you don't have a problem delaying some things but not others."
"I have a plan. I just uh…haven't quite figured out how to phrase things yet. It's not me I'm worried about," He confessed. "I don't want to cheapen Tawny in my dad's eyes…but I can't figure out a way to say it and make her look good."
Never one to mince words Jillian replied, "The longer you delay, the cheaper she feels, Honey."
"I was afraid of that." His shoulders slumped. "We get there on Thursday, but I don't want to tell him until I golf with him on Sunday. I want to have a few days to show Tawny a really great time in California. She's never been there and she's so excited. If I tell him on Thursday and it ruins the whole trip, I'll feel awful."
She read between the lines. "And you're hoping your daddy will be so smitten with her and the two of you as a couple, after a few days he'll be more accepting."
"That too." Gripping his water glass Greg asked, "Do you think he'll know Tawny is pregnant right away when he sees her? You're an expert after having seven kids…do you think her belly looks like she's already showing?"
Jillian returned her sunglasses to her face and cracked up. "Are you kidding? It will take at least another ten pounds before the girl even starts to look mortal."
Greg couldn't help smiling like the cat that ate the canary.
"You do realize she won't always look like that, right?" It was currently a sensitive topic for Jillian. "I have a son who seems to think his ex-model wife should have the same perfect body she did before birthing his babies."
Greg lifted his eyes from the brochure. "Actually…Tawny already looks a little different than when I met her because she's not tanning or coloring her hair, and she's gained a few pounds from not dancing for hours every night."
Jillian raised her drink. "Goodness…I can't imagine her lookin' better than she does right now."
Greg glanced around at the men in the crowd. "I know every guy here was gaping at her when she headed for the restroom in that bikini and sarong, but I love her for who she is, not what she looks like."
"Now give me a reason to think that's not bullshit."
Greg dug a little deeper. "She's having a breast reduction after the babies are born. She's going to back to her B's. If I was shallow, when she brings it up I'd discourage that, not encourage it. But I know her body wasn't built for Ds long term, and it's going to end up hurting her back. And it's not only that…she doesn't get the respect she deserves because people see her boobs first and make judgments." He deflated. "Like I did when I first met her. It's not fair, but it's the way society is, and in this town people will always assume she was in the business when they look at her. Honestly, right now it's fun for me know guys are drooling over my girl but, I don't want the mother of my kids propositioned when she's taking the kids for a stroll…and I don't want the other women whispering about her behind her back and getting catty. Lastly, if Tawny really wants a career in the courtroom, I know she'll be taken seriously if she looks more…mortal."
"Very persuasive speech, Greg." Jillian smiled at the young man.
"So am I guilty or not guilty of being shallow?"
"Not guilty." Leaning in she pointed to a picture of the Monet room. "That was her favorite. I'm sure I don't have to tell you she gets a little carried away when she's excited." Jillian winked. "Then again from what I've heard, you do too."
He nodded. "That is how I got into this situation."
"It wasn't my place to ask how much your parents are willing to spend, so I encouraged her to explore a variety of options for the two of you to present to them."
"Thank you."
Jillian told him, "With five weddings to pay for, Bill and I kept them elegant but simple…not like this extravaganza Carrie's planning. Each of our daughters was offered the same, and if she wanted to go above and beyond it was up to her and her fiancé to come up with the difference."
"Since my folks only have to do this once, they won't have a problem with this." He studied the photo and imagined the event.
Watching the smile spreading on Greg's face Jillian offered, "You want me to outline some talking points for breaking the news to your father?"
"A kick ass attorney like you wants to help me write a persuasive speech?" He lit up like a Christmas tree. "Hell yes! Or am I supposed to say Yee Haw right there?"
Big Sky Ranch
1:46 p.m.
After having lunch with Ren and his dad, Nick and Carrie returned to the stable to gear up for one last ride.
"Put your backpack on, Darlin'." Nick handed it over smiling then led a gorgeous black stallion out of its stall.
"But this is for when we we're hiking later."
"We're riding to our hike." He did one last check to make certain the saddle was secure. While Carrie was using the bathroom earlier, Ren detailed exactly where to go.
Tensing, Carrie confessed, "I don't think I'm ready to control a horse out in the open. What if Shy takes off and won't stop?"
Nick mounted the stallion. "You're not ready." He extended his hand. "That's why you're riding with me on Dane." He removed his foot from the stirrup so she could use it to get up.
Slipping her hand into his she giggled. "Like in the movies when the girl runs off with a guy on his horse. Ooh, like in Braveheart…I loved that scene."
"Jeez…talk about pressure…comparing me to Mel Gibson as a warrior in a kilt."
"You definitely have the thighs for kilt wearing."
"Well, since I don't have a kilt…" He loved it as she slipped her arms around his waist and locked her hands. "…I'll have to sing to make you swoon."
"You'll spook the horse," She teased as he walked the horse down a trail leading to a clearing.
He opted for the oldie, Cattle Call, because he could sing it worse than any other song that came to mind. "The cattle are prowlin' and the coyotes howlin' way out where the dawwwwgies bawwwwwl."
Burying her face in his back Carrie shook with laughter.
"Where the spurs are a-jinglin' a cowboy is singin' the lonesome cattle call..." Glancing over his shoulder he asked, "Are you balanced and holding on tight?" They were at the head of the flat trail that Ren said was perfect for galloping.
"What? My ears are bleeding so I'm having trouble hearing you." Once she was done laughing, Carrie answered his question. "I'm ready."
"Okay, here's that speed you were looking for, Roxie." Nick spurred the horse and Dane relished the chance to pick up the pace.
"Oh my god!" Carrie closed her eyes and hung on for dear life. "Nicky! This is too…" It was simultaneously exhilarating and unnerving, just like several of the sexual experiences they had this week and she hoped after a few minutes, her panic would dissipate like it had when she tried those new endeavors.
Not realizing how much he missed it until he got a taste, it felt fantastic to be riding in the open again. "Are you doin' okay?"
"Uh huh," She responded in a voice more nervous than she wanted.
If she squeezed him any tighter he was certain she'd cut off his circulation. "I can slow down if you're scared."
"Don't!" She loved the rhythm of their bodies pressed together and the primal feel of the ride. "I trust you, Nicky," She assured him when she caught her breath. "Always."
The unprompted validation was much appreciated. "Thanks, Darlin'."
A few minutes later Carrie urged on an exhale, "Faster…"
"Faster?"
"Yes!"
Grinning he said, "I think trust is my aphrodisiac too." Then he signaled Dane to take off. "Oh yeah! Here we go…"
The Bellagio
Room 912
2:02 p.m.
Sara and Gil sat at the table eating a late lunch.
Sara said, "This soup is good."
"It's summer, why are we eating soup?" Gil asked.
"Because."
"Oh."
They finished their soup.
Then they did it…twice.
Celeste's Car
2:23 p.m.
"I can't believe we really did it!" Hodges exclaimed, still buzzing from the moment.
"Me either!" Trying to contain herself, Celeste pulled her BMW into the first parking space she could find. "That was the best drive-thru experience I've ever had."
Once the car was in park Hodges pulled her close. "And now…every time we get drive-thru at McDonalds, or Wendy's or Taco Bell, we'll be reminded of our wedding day."
It was just like Magic and Matrimony – Volume 18. "Do you want to kiss your bride again?"
"Definitely."
Big Sky Ranch
2:31 p.m.
"So are we going to buy a horse?" Carrie asked, still reeling with excitement from the breathtaking ride. While Nick tended to Dane, she was taking cover behind a tree, changing her clothes.
Upon securing the horse's reins to a strong tree branch Nick replied, "No, we're gonna buy two because sometimes I won't want to share." When he realized Carrie was hiding he laughed, "Are you back there peeing like a champ for me, Sweetheart?"
"You want to see the evidence before I bury it, CSI guy?"
"That's okay, I trust you…and I'll smell the mango hand sanitizer on your hands." Turning around, he looked at the natural swimming hole. It was just as Ren described. "This is an amazing piece of property the Clarke's own."
"Ren said they had ten times the land in Montana."
Picking up a rock, he skimmed it across the water. "I'm seriously getting itchy about living in the city after this trip."
"When it gets real bad, we'll have our horses and go riding in the mountains outside of Vegas," She told him from behind the tree.
"Are you having a problem back there, Darlin'?"
"Nope." With that she bounded out dressed in her Indian Princess outfit. "Hey, cowboy! Check out what Catherine gave me. I believe you're supposed to capture me and have your way with me."
Instead he burst out laughing.
"That's what I thought too," Carrie said while grabbing the coil of rope and the camera she had stuffed in the backpack.
"Is this what you meant earlier when you said you wanted to do something and take pictures for Cath?" He took the rope from her hands. "What? You want me to tie you to a tree?"
"That'll work," She giggled and found one with a nice trunk to stand against.
"I can't believe she didn't include moccasins," He teased. "Obviously she doesn't know what turns you on."
"I think she was focusing on what would turn you on."
While tying his fiancée to a tree Nick mused, "Yeah…this really explains why Catherine and I never hooked up over the years. Warrick is a lot more adventurous than me." He took the camera from her hand. "Ready to work it?"
Carrie struggled to break free. "Hey, you really tied me tight."
Nick snapped a couple of pictures. "Are you getting nervous, Pocahontas?"
"Sorry, Pocahontas was way before cowboy times. You have to know that, you're a history buff."
"Are you critiquing my role-play again?" Lowering the camera he revealed his smirk. "I think I will have my way with you after all."
"Untie me right now!"
"How can you speak perfect English if you're an Indian Princess who was just captured? You're not very good at this role-play thing either, Honey."
Carrie curtly informed him, "I can speak English because when I was six my family was killed by a vicious tribe. The chief of a nice tribe found me and took me back to raise me as one of his own."
"You got that from a movie." He moved closer and grinned wider. "I believe it had several love scenes," Nick murmured as he nibbled on Carrie's ear.
"Untie me!" She screamed as she squirmed.
"You're very spunky, what's your Indian name, Princess?"
"Kicks like a Mule When Trapped."
When he felt her position her knee just south of the family jewels he offered, "How about I untie you and we get to know each other better first?"
The Bellagio
Suite C
2:52 p.m.
"You what!" Tawny shrieked into her cell phone. "But you just met. You don't know anything about each other. Are you crazy!" She had called Celeste to see how the rest of the date went, but never in her wildest dreams expected to hear this radical news.
When he heard Tawny hyperventilating, Greg came flying out from the luxurious bathroom, where he had been drawing a bubble bath. "What's going on? What's wrong?"
Covering the phone Tawny heatedly whispered, "Celeste and Hodges got married at a drive-thru wedding chapel earlier today."
"What! They just met less than twenty-four hours ago." Greg gripped his head. "She has no idea how freakin' annoying Hodges is. He was on his best behavior last night and wearing a shirt I bought for him. They obviously didn't think this through. Were they wasted? She works days and he works nights! And they can't even live together because he has a severe ferret allergy and she has a severe love of ferrets."
Tawny spoke calmly into the phone. "Honey, if you haven't consummated the marriage, you can get it annulled." She smacked her forehead when she heard Celeste say, too late, we're in bed at Treasure Island enjoying each other's booty. "Okay then, I know you weren't drunk but, you could still claim you weren't of sound mind!"
"I certainly hope they used protection!" Greg scolded as he left Tawny's side to answer the knock on the suite's door.
"Your bag, Mr. Sanders." The bellhop walked in with the bag Greg had quickly packed when he rushed back to the townhouse after lunch. He had wanted to bring it upstairs himself but, the hotel insisted on giving them the royal treatment. "And I have an envelope from the Events department."
"Thank you."
The bellhop waited.
"Oh!" Greg reached for his wallet and a moment later realized it was empty. "Um…my fiancée is the rich one from the Texas oil family. Let me check her purse." He hurried over to the table and grabbed it. "Here you go." Greg handed over a five. "Thanks."
"Thank you, Sir."
When he saw a note wrapped around a hotel keycard Greg grabbed it and read.
Hey Gorgeous,
Sneak away from mama and come
to Room 652. I'll have a bottle of
Cristal on ice. The only thing you
need to bring is your smile. You
won't remember your boyfriend's
name after we spend the night
together.
- Dan
Greg grabbed the cellphone out of Tawny's hand and yelled into it, "Congratulations. We need to go shopping for a wedding gift, she'll call you tomorrow." With that he hung up.
"Greg! That was so rude."
"What's this?"
Tawny tried to read what Greg was clutching but he wouldn't hold still. "It looks like a note."
"From a guy named Dan and it was wrapped around a room key." He could hear the punchiness in his voice and tried to eliminate it. "I found it in your purse."
"Ugh! Dan is this creep who hit on me at the pool." Tawny stuffed her hands on her hips. "He must have stuck that note in my purse when I wasn't looking."
"Why didn't you tell him you were spoken for?" Greg felt his old insecurities brewing.
"Uh…I did…three times." Tawny's feathers started to ruffle. "He wasn't taking no for an answer." She grabbed the note, crumpled it and tossed it in the garbage. "He was all over me too, until Mrs. Stokes came and chased him off."
"Why didn't you tell him you were pregnant? That would have done it."
"No way."
"Why not?" He couldn't stop the blurt. "Because you liked the attention?"
"No!" She held up her barren left hand and snapped, "Because I don't have a ring on my finger, Greg. It was bad enough the pig wasn't respecting a thing I said, I didn't want to humiliate myself telling him I'm pregnant without even being engaged. Look…if you're so worried about guys hitting on me then why don't you make it clear I'm not available?" She pointed to her empty ring finger.
Greg ran his fingers through his hair and grabbed a tuft. "Tawny, come on…you know it's going to happen real soon."
"I think you're waiting to see how things go in California." She felt her eyes welling and cursed herself for letting the vicious seed Ellie planted in her head take root. "You're waiting to see if I fit in and if I don't…"
"That's crazy!" He gaped at her, shocked she could think such a thing. "We're having babies together. We're totally in love with each other. What the…"
"Then what are you waiting for?"
"We've talked about this…I want to make it special." Reaching out he took her hand. "Country potatoes, remember?"
"I have morning sickness and my belly's getting bigger. I don't need special, Greg." Her voice cracked, "I need a marriage certificate and medical insurance."
"Where is this coming from?" Greg released her hand and paced this room. "Did Mrs. Stokes tell you to corner me?"
"No." A hot tear slipped down Tawny's cheek. "Celeste isn't pregnant and she's married. I'm nine weeks pregnant and not even engaged. Hodges knew what he wanted and went for it. He didn't worry about what his daddy would think. Why can't you?"
"That's what brought this on? Any man and woman can get married on a whim in this town, it doesn't mean they'll live happily ever after."
Tawny sniffled, "Why are you still content introducing me as your knocked up girlfriend and letting strangers think I'm on the market? I'm sick of it, Greg. It's humiliating."
After gulping the lump in his throat he assured her, "I'm telling my dad next Sunday. A week from tomorrow."
"That's not good enough." Wiping her tears she pointed to her phone in his hand. "Call him now."
"No."
"Call him so I don't have to worry about hiding my bathroom trips or my morning sickness from him."
"I won't."
Tawny flashed to anger. "Fine! If you don't have the balls to call him, I will!" She lunged to grab her phone out of Greg's hand.
Instinctively he held the phone behind his back.
"Give me my god damn phone!"
"Stop it! Just stop it!" He pleaded. "Why are you doing this to me? Why are you forcing this when I'm so close?"
"This proves my point! You're still not sure."
"Can you give me a freakin' break! I've had a rough week dammit!" Recalling his promise not to yell he apologized immediately. "Sorry…sorry." Frustrated, he paced the room. "You're not being rational because of this thing with Celeste and Hodges. Can you please be rational? You're not thinking of my mom. If you make that call, you'll get her in trouble with my dad. I don't want to get her in trouble."
"Why is your mother still covering for you? It was supposed to be temporary but it's been a month."
"She's helping," He quietly replied.
"She's lying to her husband." Suddenly a new fear consumed her. "If you're letting her do it on your behalf, you must approve. I don't want lies in my marriage, Greg…no matter how good the intentions. And your mom's lies aren't little white ones. They're big. My god Greg…she hid your suicide attempt from him. He had a right to know."
"Tawny…please…I know it's screwed up. It's one of the things I need to work through with Dr. Myers." Watching her cry, his eyes welled. "I've always been straight with you…even when it would have been much easier to lie. I promise I won't change when we're married…and we will be Tawny…very soon."
Sinking into the nearest chair, she let her tears flow. "I was just sunbathing by the pool minding my own business. I…the truth is…getting propositioned makes my skin crawl because it makes me think of all the ones I accepted that I should have turned down. I want them to see a ring on my finger and leave me alone and if they don't, I want to be able to lift my hand and say taken. Can you understand that? I'm tired, Greg. I'm really tired."
Kneeling in front of her, Greg brushed away his tears then hers. "I'm sorry I didn't tell my dad when he was out here. It was the perfect opportunity and I blew it. I didn't know how to say it and I don't want him to think less of you because of my mistake. I'm trying to say it right."
"You can put your boots in the oven but it doesn't make 'em biscuits." A faint smile played on her lips. "That's from hanging with Mrs. Stokes. The rest was due to surges in hormones, insecurity and jealousy. The point is… you can say it however you want to your dad but, it is what it is and we can't change it."
"Tawny, if you want to go to a drive-thru chapel and say I do right now I will." Reaching into his pants pocket he pulled out the keys. "I'm ready. But if we do then there's no beautiful dress, no elegant ceremony, no Monet room reception, and there still won't be a gorgeous diamond ring on your finger because it's in California. My mom has it hidden there so you wouldn't find it before I popped the question next week."
Tawny's hands flew to her mouth. "You really bought a ring?"
"I shouldn't have told you but, I already ate supper before saying Grace so…" Cupping her tear soaked face in his trembling hands he assured her, "It's beautiful, just like you and I can't wait to slip it on your finger."
Now her tears were motivated by joy.
"Tawny…" He was right there crying with her again. "I got you pregnant before we even went out on a date…before I even knew your last name. I've been doing things wrong since the day I met you. Please trust me and give me a chance to do the rest of it right." When she nodded and threw her arms around his neck, Greg breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you."
"Greg..."
"Yes?" His eyes were clamped tight as he savored the embrace.
"Sweetie, did you leave the tub running in the bathroom?"
"Oh shit! Another thing I screwed up." He took off running.
Big Sky Ranch
3:21 p.m.
"You can't catch me, Tex!" Carrie yelled as she bolted from her position behind a tree. "Give it up!" After hiking around the area for a while, she had initiated a chase in the forest…after giving herself a two minute head start.
"It's wide open here, Sweetheart, so you have nowhere to hide, and we both know I can outpace you." They were back at the swimming hole and she was headed to the north side where the water dumped in from a four foot waterfall.
"Time out!"
"Time out?" He stopped when she did. "Who calls time out during a chase?"
"It'll be worth your while." She decided to let the visual she was about to bestow upon him explain her intentions.
"What…" When he saw her peeling off her boots, socks and jeans, Nick smiled. "Really?" Having each done the five things on their lists, it appeared Carrie was determined to do the hidden eleventh activity.
"Really." Stripped down, she walked into the swimming hole and once there, she dove under the water, swimming to the center. By the time she came up for air she saw Nick was tossing off his boxer briefs. "It's nippy."
"Maybe I can help with that."
"It's deep enough for a shallow dive."
He did just that and covered the distance in a heartbeat. "It's not nippy, it's freezing." Tentatively he wrapped his arms around her. "Is this okay?"
Nodding, she reciprocated the gesture. "Feels perfect."
In the center of the pristine water they clung to each other in silence, trembling slightly from the chills running through their bodies, some caused by the water's temperature, others from the significance of the breakthrough.
"I love you, Sweetheart," Nick whispered. He followed the soft words with a tender kiss to her cheek and then joined his lips with hers.
"Keeping moving your hands," She urged through lightly chattering teeth. "To warm me up."
He knew there was more to the request. Gently he explored her quivering body.
"It all feels good, Nicky." Her voice rang with a combination of relief and delight.
He kissed her deeper, thrilled her fear was gone.
Trailing her fingertips over his chest she whispered, "Your tattoo is coming off a little…from showering, sweating and swimming I suppose."
"We have more for tomorrow." Nick lowered his forehead to hers while Carrie wrapped her legs around his waist..
"I still want us to get real ones. What about you?"
"Tell me when and where and I'm there."
They exchanged knowing smiles.
"We're still shivering."
"It's not the water temperature," Nick answered.
"I'm not afraid…I'm not ashamed of my body," Carrie declared, her breath catching in her throat. "I'm back where I was before it happened."
His eyes were locked on hers. "So am I."
"Our work here is done." She smiled brightly. "Take me home, cowboy."
"Yes, ma'am." Carrying her, he walked them out of the water. "I'm ready."
Whispering Pines
5:17 p.m.
In the lobby of the Admitting office Jim Brass held his tears in check as he pulled away from his daughter's tight embrace. "It's time for me to go." He leaned in to kiss her forehead. "Take care, Honey."
"Bye, Daddy." For the first time Ellie felt the reality crashing in around her. This was it. Her last chance to straighten out and fly right. "I love you." Never had she meant it more.
The three words tipped him over the edge. "I love you too." He returned for one more hug. "It's gonna work, Ellie. You'll make it work and I'll be here every Sunday."
"I'm gonna try so hard."
"I know you are." Out of the corner of his eye he saw the Director signaling they needed to make the break. "Okay…I'll see you next Sunday." He smoothed his palm over her brazen red hair. "You can do it."
She nodded as tears slipped down her cheeks. "I'm really scared."
He took a step back. "That makes two of us."
Sensing the difficulty, the Director prodded, "It's okay. It's not goodbye because this isn't the end, it's the beginning."
The Bellagio
Room 912
6:02 p.m.
"So…" Sara smiled at her husband lying in bed under the covers with her. "How do we know it's officially over?"
"We look back and see if all our feasibility study questions have been answered."
Sara propped up on her elbow grinning wider. "Is it technically doable?"
"Yes." He placed his hand on her womb. "And that was the fun part...except the flu sex. And in the very end, even that was fun."
"Will it be rewarding?"
"I think more than we could ever imagine." His smile matched hers in intensity.
"What will it cost us?"
"I'm loaded, money's no object." Gil took his wife's hand and brought it to his mouth for a kiss. "As far as a baby costing us other things…like our jobs, I think we both know there's nothing we could lose that would be worse than losing each other."
"Is it worth doing?"
Gil nodded vehemently. "Absolutely. And I'm looking forward to everything ahead…even if it's worse than flu sex."
"You've come a long way, Baby." Sara snuggled close.
"You have too." He kissed her forehead.
"So…" Looking him in the eyes Sara smiled.
Gil took the cue. "After reviewing the findings of our study, we've determined that the prospective venture is not only feasible…it's going to be the best damn thing that ever happened to us. Dr. Grissom, do you concur?"
"I concur, Dr. Grissom." Sara cleared her throat and used an official tone. "One hundred and twenty- seven days and a lot of stress and happiness later, I declare the feasibility study officially over." After a celebratory kiss Sara whimsically remarked, "It's funny, don't you think…this whole study started because we had the gang over and they gave us an ant farm…which got us thinking about having a baby."
"And now that the study is over, we're all coming together for lunch tomorrow."
"Yeah…it's another reason to celebrate," Sara declared while nuzzling closer to her husband.
"It's has wonderful symmetry."
"Just like us."
Author's Notes:
In case you were wondering, my husband wrote the GS soup/love scene. He felt it captured the essence of their relationship and that the 'love scene' included all relevant information. He didn't think he needed to expound on Gil's thoughts because…"duh…he was psyched". And he didn't think he needed to show what happened after because… "duh, he just had sex twice…Gil fell asleep…and don't kid yourself, so would Nick or Greg." LOL and yes, he did mean it as a joke and is keeping his day job.
There you have it….the last chapter of Feasibility Study. The epilogue chapters (containing the BBQ with the main gang) will be posted next week with the first chapter on late Tuesday, July 19th when I return from vacation. Like the Gravity epilogue set the stage for FS, the FS epilogue will do the same for the next story. (LOL I thought it would be good symmetry.)
My hope is, that even if you don't ship every couple or care for all the characters, you've at least gotten to know them all and understand where they fit in the 'family'. Along the way I'm glad you've found some favorites to cheer for and I hope, that you love them and the series enough, to see them through the rest of their journey.
And now for some thank yous…
I am very grateful to those readers who took the time…to provide encouragement at some point over the course of 102 chapters or now at the end; to post on message boards recommending the story or citing a favorite quote; to politely point out when I got something wrong, so I had an opportunity to correct it; to give honest feedback without being mean, even when disagreeing. All of you contributed to the success of this story and helped me improve personally.
A special thanks to my husband for indulging this hobby,for never getting tired of hearing my plot musings (even the GSR!), for playing with the kids outside when I was desperate for some quiet time to write…and for never failing to make me laugh when I need it.
And lastly, this would never have been possible without KJT who never let me down once (even when her computer connection let her down LOL). It's not easy writing ¾ of a million words and I assure you it's a real pain in the ass editing them…especially when the writer tends to tweak right before going to print LOL. I couldn't ask for a better partner in this endeavor. Even after all this time she still patiently reminds me of things I've consistently done wrong since chapter one LOL (I probably did some of them wrong in these notes!). You can also thank her for talking me down from some of more wacko plot ideas by tactfully asking, "You really aren't going to do that, right?" or calmly saying, "Uh…no way would that happen." Only a few times has she screamed, "NO!" or "You can't get rid of !" LOL she's saved lives of minor players, trust me. For all of this I give her standing ovation! BRAVA!
Thanks so much to all who stuck it out (735,000 words!) and trusted that this WIP would one day be complete!
Maggs