Chapter 9: Always on My Mind

Recapping Chapter 8: The others decided to help Jason and Kimberly celebrate their engagement at Angel Grove High. Kat surprises Kim and Jason at the engagement. But everyone else is stunned especially Kim when Kat's new boyfriend Lucas Wicks shows up at the party as he resembles Tommy. To make matters worse, at Kim's meeting with the Director of Mercian she learns that Lucas is the new Director of Mercian making things worse.

Author's notes: I'm taking a different spin of Tanya Sloan's character in this story. Although in the show she was the former yellow Zeo Ranger, in the story she is one of Kim's co-workers at Polaris. Second, I don't the copyrights to the song "There's Gotta Be More to Life" by Stacie Orico.Keep sending your reviews because I like to know what you all think about the story and enjoy the story!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

"Kimberly!" Jason yelled. Kimberly turned around as she was about to head inside her apartment building. She saw Jason's car parked on the other side of the street, "I thought I might catch you here! Tanya said that they haven't heard from you since you left the Mercian office. They said you haven't called in all day."

"Oh Jas sorry I didn't see you there," Kim replied, "What are you doing here?"

"Didn't you forget?" Jason smiled, "Courtney's gig is tonight at the Youth Center. C'mon you didn't forget your cousin is performing."

"She gets her musical talents from her cousin," Kim teased, "I wouldn't miss the girl's performance for nothing. Too bad mom doesn't have time to swing by. Besides…it's my turn to watch her sing tonight. Kenny and Demi went last week."

"And this week it's our turn," Jason replied as he ushered Kim into the car, "If we don't get a move on, Courtney will blow!"

"Yeah she maybe a full grown teenager," Kim replied, "But…the girl is still a little bugger that moved in with us ten years ago. Let's get a move on."

The two of them arrived at the Youth Center where they saw that Courtney and her band were setting up. Kimberly decided to go backstage to check up on her cousin while Jason decided to find a couple of seats for him and Kim. Courtney was tuning her guitar and she smiled as she saw her cousin Kimberly greet her.

"For a minute there I thought you wouldn't show up," Courtney replied, "Aunt Caroline is working late so Sandra and Jamie are giving me a ride home."

"Are you nervous?" Kim asked, "Trust me you'll do fine. I've been to most of your gigs and you got a lot of talent. Try to relax Court and besides…you got the talent."

"But I learned it from you," Courtney added, "If it wasn't for your passion and influence of music on me, then I wouldn't have done it without your help. Even all those songs that I'm singing you wrote them. That songbook you gave me for my 15th birthday was what got me perusing my dream. I thought…you loved playing and you just suddenly stop."

"Things change Courtney," Kim said with an upset voice, "Times change and you got to move on with life. I gave you that songbook with all of the songs I wrote a long time ago. The reason of that is because I believe you can have some better use for them than I do. But that part of my life…I can't have it back but you, Courtney you got a gift that you can share with the world than I do."

"Kimberly…but you shouldn't ever turn away from the things you love. It's just I wish you could play again like you used to when I was small. I loved hearing you play and…"

"You're almost up soon Courtney…you should get ready. Hey, break a leg out there!"

"Thanks cousin Kim! You should head out to the front," Courtney smiled as she thought about her cousin for a minute, "I wish you could play again like you used to Kimberly. Maybe it can bring some happiness again to your life."

"So how is she?" Jason asked as Kim took a seat next to him, "Is she ready?"

"Of course she is," Kim smiled, "After all…she's a Hart. We're always prepared by all means."

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Jason and Kimberly watched as Courtney and her band performed on stage. Kim just smiled at her cousin as she reminded her of herself as a teenager ten years ago…well what she used to be ten years ago before everything changed. Ten years ago Kimberly used to love gymnastics and even music. She thought that as long as she had those two things in her life she'll be fine. Unfortunately, seeing her cousin perform on stage made her think what life will be like if everything didn't change after Valentine's Day night? Courtney reminded Kimberly of how much she loved music and playing her guitar as she sang one of the songs that Kim actually wrote:

"I've got it all, but I feel so deprived
I go up, I come down and I'm emptier inside
Tell me what is this thing that I feel like I'm missing
And why can't I let it go

Chorus
There's gotta be more to life...
Than chasing down every temporary high to satisfy me
Cause the more that I'm...
Tripping out thinking there must be more to life
Well it's life, but I'm sure... there's gotta be more
Than wanting more

I've got the time and I'm wasting it slowly
Here in this moment I'm half way out the door
Onto the next thing, I'm searching for something that's missing

repeat chorus

I'm wanting more
I'm always waiting on something other than this
Why am I feelin' like there's something I missed...".

repeat chorus x2

"Kim, is everything alright?" Jason asked, "Something is bothering you and by the look on your face…you seem upset about something."

"It's…nothing Jason that's all," Kim sighed, "I'm…okay honestly."

"Did something happen today with your meeting with that Director?" Jason asked, "Did he reject your work? He must have done something to upset you fancy face. Why is my beautiful fiancée down in the dumps?"

"It's something…in the lines of that," Kim sighed, "But it's a bit confusing. You see…that director he's actually…"

"Kim do not let him get to you," Jason replied, "Forget about Mercian. I'm sure there are other contracting companies that would want to work with you. It's their loss that they didn't want to work with such talent as you. Remember you got us who like the work you do…including me, your lifetime fan. I'm sure he didn't really reject the work did he? Is he giving you a hard time already?"

"I'm…not sure if I want to continue working with Mercian," Kim said, "He liked the idea…and they're drawing up the final contract to issue commencement on the project. Jason…I'm not sure if I'm cut out to work with them. It seems like…if I do work with Mercian…then I won't have enough time to spend with you."

"I know how much your job means to you," Jason smiled, "I don't want to be the one that stands in your way of missing out on an opportunity to work with a company like Mercian. I will support you fully on whatever you decide. My advice to you is…don't doubt yourself that you can't handle working in their league. You're one of the best contractors at Polaris and everyone here in Angel Grove knows you. Don't let that Director get to you and make you feel like you are not worthy of working with him. You can show them what you got."

"Promise you'll…support me with every decision I make? Will you be there in my corner and you think I'm good enough to work…with them?"

"I stand by everything I said Kimberly…you deserve it more than ever. This is an opportunity of a lifetime and I'm not going to hold you back."

-----------------------------------------------------------------

The next day, Kimberly was at work reading over some inspection reports and building contracts that needed to be signed. Her co-worker, Tanya Sloan came in early morning and was greeted by Kimberly and their other co-worker Seth. The three of them were tending to business as usual trying to reach deadlines and review renovation blueprints for other upcoming projects they were doing.

"Tanya I need you to go to Mercian for me today," Kim replied, "I need you to get the final signature from Mr. Wicks so we can get this project on the way. I want you on board to oversee everything that is happening. There's a presentation coming up next week so I need you to prepare for it."

"I thought you were coming with me to Mercian today," Tanya replied surprised, "Why do I have to go alone today?"

"Because I need to meet up with the tenants of that new daycare they're constructing up in Stone Canyon today," Kim answered, "Apparently there have been some errors with the leasing contracts that were issued back in July. I need to go there and revise the contract and renegotiate another deal on the lease. Tanya will you do this for me?"

"Fine…but I don't see why you don't want to even take credit for the Northstar project? You did all the work…and I'm going to end up getting the credit."

"I'll be back by 5pm…just get the signature for me Tanya," Kim smiled, "I'm counting on you."

Meanwhile at Mercian, Adam decided to check in on his boss, Lucas Wicks for everything that is happening. It didn't bother Adam that his boss looked so much like Tommy and he didn't seem to notice it. Adam didn't know hear anything about the meeting between Lucas and Kimberly. All he knew was that Kimberly was the one that worked out the deal with Mercian and nothing else. He wasn't sure if she was going to come aboard to work with them on the project or not. He went into his boss' office and he found him observing the picture frame puzzle as Lucas noticed that the picture was complete.

"Hey Lucas I brought you some lunch," Adam replied as he approached him, "You know…I don't see why you like doing these things so much."

"I can't help it," Lucas smiled, "Every piece represents something that is either missing or needs to be put together. I like doing these things for some reason and I find them entertaining to work out. Hey…I know that look on your face. Many think I might come off as being a playboy but that's an example of deceived perception. First of all I'm not a playboy and second I'm already in a relationship as it seems."

"Yeah with my friend Kat," Adam smiled, "You better treat that girl well or else."

"Don't worry I wouldn't hurt her. Hey Adam can I ask you something? Have…you ever met a woman who suddenly starts to cry by staring at you? When a woman stares at you, is it her nature to cry for some reason?"

"What makes you think that man?" Adam asked confused, "I…don't think I've never met a woman who cries by staring at a man with a lot of curiosity. I know it's not my business to intrude on, but did something happen with your meeting yesterday with Polaris?"

"I don't know how to explain it…but she just ran out crying yesterday. I think…something must have upset her badly. I've meant a lot of women in my life…but this one, there's something different and intriguing about her. But I got to ask you…what do you think will cause a woman to just suddenly cry?"

"To be honest man I don't know how the psyche of a woman's mind works," Adam said as they heard a knock on the door and Tanya came in, "Oh…I suppose you're the representatives from Polaris?"

"Hello there…I'm Tanya Sloan," Tanya replied, "You must be Lucas Wicks, the new director of Mercian. It's such a pleasure to meet you."

"I thought there were suppose to be two of you," Lucas replied, "What happened to Ms. Hart?"

"Oh she had to head up to Stone Canyon to deal with some business up there," Tanya said, "I was sent here on her behalf to finalize the deal. So this is the final copy of the contract for the Northstar Project."

"I see," Lucas smiled, "Here take a seat and let us review the contract." The two of them took a seat while Adam went to photocopy a couple of items for Lucas. Tanya signed the contract first and then she handed the contract to Lucas. He looked at it for a minute, but she thought there might be a problem.

"Mr. Wicks…is everything alright?" Tanya asked, "Is there something wrong with the contract?"

"No there is no problem," Lucas smiled as he looked at the contract and got an idea, "Actually there is one request. I will sign this contract under one condition…"

"And what condition is that?" Tanya asked.

Kimberly returned from Stone Canyon later on that late afternoon and Tanya came back to the office presenting the signed contract. Kim smiled as her and Tanya decided to go out to dinner to celebrate the launch of the Northstar Ski Project. They went to a sushi bar up in Downtown Angel Grove. Of course, Kimberly being the hardworking contractor she was trying to discuss about the plans for the project with Tanya.

"So how did it go?" Kim asked, "Was he actually nice?"

"Girl that guy is such a looker," Tanya teased, "He's so hot and charming. I don't know why you didn't tell me he was young. I thought he would be some old geezer or something."

"What would it matter? After all he has half control of the project."

"C'mon Kim you were the one that did all the work and I only got the credit for getting the deal done. Besides you're lucky that he reluctantly agreed to sign the contract under one condition. I'm not sure why there is a presentation coming up on Monday and I don't even know why Mercian wants us to do the presentation."

"Trust me it will be fine," Kim said as she though of what Tanya said, "Wait a minute…what condition are you talking about? Tanya is there something you're not telling me?"

"Well Mr. Wicks agreed to sign the contract under one condition," Tanya replied, "He said he'll only sign it…if you were the project manager for this project."

"Tanya you didn't…tell him yes did you?"

"I couldn't help it and besides…this is your work and this has you written all over it. I'm not good with presentations and he wants you to do the presentation on Monday at Mercian. You are one of the top contractors in this company and he actually requested to have you on board or else…he wouldn't sign. Kim…you're the only one in our company who can work to Mercian's standards. Kimberly c'mon can you do this?" Realizing that Kimberly found herself in this predicament, she had no choice but to agree.

"Fine…I'll do it," Kim replied, "I'll do the presentation on Monday…and work with Mercian on the project. But I am only doing this for the company."

"I knew you wouldn't back down," Tanya smiled, "Just make sure you're ready for Monday."

-----------------------------------------------------------------

By the following week, Kimberly already began working with Lucas and Mercian on the Northstar Ski Resort Project. Still, she was edgy about working with them because of Lucas and the fact that he looked like Tommy Oliver so much, but he wasn't Tommy. All that can keep Kim's mind in focus was her work and nothing more. She didn't want to gain in any personal relations with her clients, especially Lucas Wicks, but she was fortunate that Adam was there on board for the project. At least it was good for Kim to have someone she knew working aboard on this project. The last couple of days have been stressful and Kim found herself literally working at the Mercian Offices these last couple of days preparing to head up to the resort for an inspection of the site.

The presentation that followed on Monday went well and many of the representatives at Mercian were impressed by Kimberly. After spending nearly the entire morning in the boardroom discussing about the renovation plans and outlining the budget plan for the project, Kim found herself doing paperwork with Adam and Lucas. She spent the entire day in a board meeting, and working with Lucas on the renovation plans. Adam had to step out for a little while leaving Kim alone with Lucas. While he reviewed the plans, Kim sat across from him at the table in his office describing every detail, which he found impressive.

"I managed to get an estimate on this site here outlined on the bottom of the third page in that portfolio," Kim replied, "Most of the renovations will occur in this particular section. I will ask if you can assign a building inspector to that particular area of the resort. You can read the budget plans on the seventh page for this particular area and the estimated cost for expenses needed for the renovations."

"You seem to have this all memorized do you Miss Hart?" Lucas smiled, "I'm looking over these portfolios and you can describe in detail the outline plans without looking at the sheet. Do you always have things memorized word for word?"

"Mr. Wicks I just want to make it clear that if there is anything about my work habits that you may find offensive you are welcome to comment on them," Kim replied, "But if I do find anything about your work habits I intend to question I will openly speak up about it. I just want to outline the terms of our partnership with our two companies as joint ventures in the interest of fair business. I just want you to realize that us working together is just business."

"Miss Hart, or is it okay if I can address you as Kimberly," Lucas said, "Let's get something to eat together. C'mon why don't you and me go out to dinner and get to learn more about each other. What do you say?"

"I appreciate the invite Mr. Wicks," Kim replied, "But I don't wish to join you. I don't want this to interfere with our work. I do not see that it is necessary for us to be dining together."

"Do you want to know why people eat together? It helps them to build relationships with clients and get to know them well both on a business level as well as a personal level. People eat and dine together to get to know each other and learn more about each other. It teaches people how to open up on a personal level. We learn how to share with one another inside and outside of the workplace."

"Thank you Mr. Wicks but I want to make it clear to you about one thing. Our relationship in terms of this project is strictly business nothing more. I do want to tell you that my relation with you as of this moment is only business in terms of this project until we complete it. There are some things I do not wish to share with anyone regarding my personal life. I do believe it is not of your concern to share or even open up to anyone. I see it best that it is none of your concern to neither know about my personal affairs nor even share them with you. I may talk to you outside the office when I feel I'm ready."

"You seem to amaze me Kimberly Hart. You're not like most of the women I've met. I find you interesting but yet intriguing and I can't seem to figure out what it is about you."

"I better get going now," Kim replied as she got her stuff and left, "There are some things that people are better off not knowing about me. I'm not like most women Lucas Wicks and you better know that for a fact. I find it a bit appalling that you are addressing in a matter that you seem to know me well. I do not wish to continue this conversation and you can call me up if there are any problems with the project. Good night Lucas."

"Well then," Lucas smiled, "Good night to you Kimberly Hart."

Kimberly left the office and she was heading off to the bus stop when she was surprised to see Jason waiting for her outside. She shot a slight smile of relief to see her. Still, she hadn't told him about Lucas being the new Mercian Director. Not only that, but she was a bit concerned about telling him that the guy she was working with on this project resembled his best friend Tommy. It still gave here chills thinking about the whole irony of the situation.

"I thought I surprised you tonight," Jason smiled as he gave her a kiss, "Tanya told me you'd be here working on the project. How was your day?"

"Not too bad," Kim smiled, "But I'm glad you're here Jason. I'm really beat up and tired."

"I see what you mean. Are you still worried about that hard slave working Director you're working with? Is that new Director giving you a hard time again? Do you want me to straighten him out for you?"

"Jason I can handle myself," Kim replied, "I don't want you to cause problems…that may get me kicked off this project or worse…get me fired from my job."

"I know you're a big girl and you can handle yourself…but I actually want to have a word with this guy to see what makes him so intimidating for my fiancée to work with. I can tell him to stop giving you a hard time and get his act together."

"Oh my gosh he's going to find out!" Kim thought to herself in fear, "Jason is going to discover that I'm working with Kat's boyfriend!" As Jason was about to walk towards the bottom of the stairway going to the main entrance they were stopped by Adam who just came out from the office. While Adam had Kim and Jason distracted, they didn't notice Lucas spying on them from a distance.

"Jason! Kimberly!" Adam replied, "You guys still here?"

"Hey Adam I didn't see you there," Jason smiled, "I came to pick up Kimberly. You work here too?"

"Yeah Kim and I are on board with the Northstar Ski Resort Project as well," Adam said, "At least I'm glad I know someone on board I can work with. Hey I got a call from Billy saying that he and Trini are meeting up with the others for some drinks. Are you guys up for it?"

"Sure I don't see why not," Kim smiled, "Adam you want a ride with us?"

"Okay let's go then," Adam replied, "But if Aisha goes through her drunken transformation again I'm going to up and leave. Rocky told me the last time you all went out Aisha got wasted up and spent half an hour puking in the parking lot."

"It wasn't pretty…but at least we all survived Aisha going through her drunken transformations as Rocky says," Jason joked, "So I suppose you're paying for drinks then?"

"You wish," Adam replied, "Unless I end up driving you home."

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Meanwhile, Kat was at her new dance school teaching for her first day of classes. The turns out was pretty impressive as Kat found herself teaching many various different dance classes from ballet for one hour, to jazz, to ballroom, to tap dancing, and even free styling choreography. Kat mostly found herself teaching beginner ballet and advance free styling. Her favorite class to teach was free styling dancing choreography but the class was very tough to the point she had applicants audition to be in the class of sixteen students. She spent about almost two hours teaching the class that night till she ended it when she spotted a guest.

"Okay everyone take it from the top," Kat instructed her class, "Ready? One, two, three and keep moving!"

She saw her class performing a routine as she examined them while the music was playing. One of her students in her free style choreography class was Kimberly's cousin Courtney, but she didn't know yet. Lucas came into the studio and examined the students dancing. Kat smiled as she spotted Lucas at the doorway and decided to end the class early after they finished rehearsing the routine.

"Alright class that will do for today," Kat replied, "I want you guys to rehearse for your free style dances next week with the songs I gave you. Remember, this will just show how well you guys can move and have fun with it. Courtney…I need to see you for a minute."

"Sure what is it Ms. Hillard?" Courtney replied, "You wanted to talk to me?"

"Yeah I was watching you earlier and I'm really impressed with your dancing skills," Kat smiled, "Pretty intense moves out there tonight. I want to change your song selection for next week's class. Will you be willing to do It's a Wonderful Night by Fat Boy Slim?"

"Sure…but don't get me wrong Ms. Hillard but it's difficult to find a steady rhythm and beat to come up with a free style to that song," Courtney replied as Kat handed her the tape, "But…I can give it a shot then. You sure I'm up for the challenge for next week's class?"

"Courtney…you'll do well," Kat smiled, "I reviewed your application and saw that you are quite multi talented in the arts. You must specialize in music, drama, dance, anything in that category? I think that's why you automatically got into this class with ease. Anyways I don't want to keep you long take care for now okay? And Courtney…just call me Kat."

"Okay thanks for the class," Courtney smiled as she left, "Have a great night."

"Pretty impressive for your first day," Lucas smiled as he came into the room, "You got a lot of talent out there…especially that girl."

"She stood out from the rest of them today," Kat smiled as she gave her boyfriend a hug, "I know she's about sixteen or seventeen. She's one of those talented girls I need to keep a watchful eye on. I'm surprised to find you here Mr. Director."

"I hope I would have surprised you. I got work early to see the most beautiful dancer in action on the floor. Would you mind showing some of those moves off the dance floor?"

"That may depend…will your feet be able to keep up with my rhythm?" Kat smiled as she put on some music and her and Lucas started slow dancing, "So…how was my sassy slick Director's day at work?"

"Tiring but I couldn't wait to spend time with my twinkle toes of a girlfriend. This new project is taking a toll on me. We got a joint venture going on with one of contractors to renovate this ski resort up near Lake Tahoe for the winter season. We got to finish it before the end of March. That means I got to drive up to the mountains during the snowfall and back to the sunshine city of Angel Grove for the next couple of months."

"Sounds like you got your hands full," Kat smiled, "Anything else you want to share?"

"Actually…there is one more thing," Lucas added, "There is this attractive young contractor that I'm working with on this project from our co-hosting firm."

"I beg your pardon?" Kat suddenly snapped, "Lucas Wicks…are you telling me that you are working with an attractive contractor on this project? Or are you doing this on purpose just to rattle me up?"

"You get jealous so easily Kat c'mon lighten up a bit," Lucas smiled, "She is somewhat of an interesting person I could say. She seems hard headed and she doesn't like to open up about her personal issues. But with a fiery attitude like that…there has to be some sort of a turn on to her. Do you want to know what her name is?"

"Okay lesson's are over," Kat snapped sarcastically turning off the music, "Frankly Lucas I don't even want to know who this new object of your infatuation is and I don't even want to bother with it. And thanks again honey for ruining the mood with your playboy persona once again. Just for that…don't try to call me tonight okay?"

"And that's what I get for rattling your cage then?"

"That's more than what you get from rattling my cage…you're just making it harder to get you know that," Kat replied, "I got a pet peeve for getting defensive every time you talk about some new bimbo you call the object of your infatuation and sooner or later you got to straighten up Lucas. We've been together for eight months and I cannot have one moment where you have to talk about some new chick you're hitting on in and out of the job. How would you like it if I started to go after a man in tights in the dancing profession? I think we're done for the evening…unless you learned your lesson you can call me up later."

-----------------------------------------------------------------

The next day Kimberly got a call from Tanya telling her that she had to fill in for her for the trip up to Lake Tahoe with Adam. Today was the day for do an inspection of the site at the ski resort. When she arrived at Mercian, she was expecting Adam but instead Kim found herself driving up to the ski resort with Lucas. "Not what I expected," Kim thought to herself. They decided to drive in Luca's truck to the ski resort. The drive was about maybe around 4 hours and luckily they arrived to the Northstar Ski Resort by midday. It was a bit chilly up near the area and thanks to Tanya's warning at advance she dressed a bit warmly. They walked around the grounds looking for the builders and constructers just to see the progress of the project.

"Your engagement looks nice," Lucas replied, "I can see it's a sapphire diamond. But…although the ring is shining I don't see the glow in your eyes."

"And is that any of your concern?" Kim asked, "I appreciate that you try not to peer into my own private life. I like you to respect the wishes of my privacy please sir. If you don't mind I like to get this inspection over and focus on the job at hand."

"You know what your problem is Kimberly…you seem too tense. It would be nice if you learn how to lighten up a bit. Remember…don't shut people out. It's okay to always open up to someone."

"That's what I used to say once upon a time," Kim thought, "It doesn't matter anymore…it's all in the past."

The two of them finally found the builders and constructors that will be working on the renovations for the season. Lucas went on to introduce Kimberly as the Project Manager for the constructing. They decided to survey the site and plan out where they were going to renovate. Kimberly brought her camera to take pictures of a couple of the sites and some of the scenery. For some reason she took a few pictures of Lucas. She was walking around until she spotted a snowman nearby. Kim didn't want to think about anymore memories of her teenage years nor her first love. But no matter what Kim did, the memories always tend to come back to her.

(FLASHBACK)

The two of them spent the entire afternoon together skiing and sight seeing. At one point both Tommy and Kimberly were having snowball fights with each other and dosing each other in piles of snow. The whole winter experience was a first for them. It never snowed in Angel Grove and although they weren't home for the holidays, this was the next best thing. Later on the two ended up building a snowman together. However, despite it turning out to look like complete rubbish, it was still decent. They both sat on a table and each of them constructed their own miniature snowmen. Tommy found it funny that Kim's snowman had a big mouth but she replied it had something to say. It was cute when Tommy pushed the two together.

"I envy them," Kim teased, "Look at them Tommy! Those two are close together and it looks like they have something to say to each other."

"I find it cute actually," Tommy joked, "Those two are telling each other how they feel."

"Yeah but still…I envy them," Kim smiled, "But envy them in a cute way." Kimberly turned around gave Tommy a quick kiss on the cheek, "I don't envy them anymore."

"Kimberly!" Kim turned around and with that Tommy gave Kim a kiss on the lips, "There…now you don't have to be envy at them anymore."

END OF FLASHBACK

"Here put this on," Lucas suddenly replied giving Kim an extra jacket, "I could see it's a bit chilly and you thought you dressed up warm enough. But I can tell by your lips it's a bit too cold. I insist you wear it."

"Lucas I can't…" Kim tried to plead but Lucas just placed the jacket on her, "I can't I'm fine…"

"The last thing I don't want is you getting sick," Lucas smiled, "And I don't want to be held accountable for getting Polaris' top contractor sick up here."

"Thank you," Kim slightly smiled, "I appreciate the generosity. So…this must be a really nice scenery don't you think? I always liked working on projects like this where there is lots of snow around. Don't get me wrong about Angel Grove. I love the weather but once in awhile I like a change of scenery. Have you ever seen snow before Lucas?"

"Rarely, except for that one time when we went to that chalet up in Iceland one time. But I rarely ever had the chance to experience winter. I spent most of my life up in Manchester England with my parents…until they separated."

"I'm sorry to hear. My parents also got divorced too…but soon afterwards my father died from lung cancer. Apparently it was my father who decided to end the marriage…because he didn't want to be a burden to my mother anymore just because he was dying. Till this day my mother sometimes is living with the regret of signing those divorce papers. If only she knew, then she wouldn't blame herself for the end of their marriage."

"I see what it's like to cope with the death of a loved one. You know my parents technically didn't get a divorce yet. I don't know how to describe what happened but I don't try to think much about it. That is why I always have to seem optimistic and my mind occupied in my work. I guess being here serves somewhat of a sanctuary from reality."

"Sometimes it's hard to escape reality," Kim replied, "But no matter what, you need to have some sort of sanctuary to run to and escape from life itself. You know when I was little, whenever I wanted to escape from all the problems I had in my life I always thought about my dream house. I imagined myself in my dream home and thinking about what I put in my house or where I would live. Have you ever…had a sense of imagination before Lucas?"

"I never thought of what my dream house would be like," Lucas smiled, "I always dreamed about living in a place where you get a clear view of the ocean or lake. I like some nice furniture in it that is comfortable. I would imagine having a terrace or a balcony to get a clear view of the water. It wouldn't matter to me who I build the house for, but all I know is that it was something made by my own hands. I want to build a home that gives a sense of security and sanctuary from life. How does that work for an imagination?"

"Pretty impressive I must say Mr. Wicks," Kim slightly smiled, "It is pretty detailed…your dream house. You want to build your own dream house which I got to give credit to you."

"What would your dream house be like Kimberly? You have to tell me at least in return what your dream house would be like…you owe me for that."

"I haven't come to thinking about my dream house since I started working at Polaris."

"What and you're a contractor and architect who hasn't formulated a floor plan for your dream house? What happened to the imaginative Kimberly thirty seconds ago? I thought you had a sense of imagination. I told you about my imaginative dream house you have to share too."

"I don't know…it might sound a bit corny for you," Kim replied, "You probably might think it would be a laugh out loud joke."

"Do you want to try me? C'mon whatever you say wouldn't be too corny…c'mon. I promise not to laugh. So tell me what would your dream house is like?"

"It wouldn't matter what my dream house would be like. I don't care if there is no furniture or decorations in the house. It wouldn't matter to me if the house is nothing but empty walls in the house. To me…my perfect dream house would be one that is built from the heart. It wouldn't matter to me if there is a house or empty lot…but what happens is the home you create in your heart. I couldn't say what I would want to put in my house but what I know I the feeling of my home would be that full of love. There…I told you it was a bit corny. I know you might think that is a bit too sappy but that's what I feel."

"I'm amazed actually," Lucas replied, "Pretty deep thoughts for a dream house."

"Thanks," Kim replied, "C'mon why don't we wrap this up soon."

-----------------------------------------------------------------

After Kimberly and Lucas finished wrapping up with their inspection of the site, the two headed up to the old chalet to cool down. The weather was getting pretty cold outside and the two were examining the inside of the chalet. Kimberly was taking notes and getting an estimate for measurements while Lucas was at the ferniest trying to start get a fire going.

"The walling on the top here seems still durable," Kim replied as she was taking measurements, "This entire wall area by the bar needs a bit of more sanding and painting. You can restore the original texture for the flooring, but everything will be fine."

"You can stop working now," Lucas smiled, "I am already impressed as it is. C'mon I don't want you to overwork yourself. Here I got the ferniest up sit by the fire to warm up."

"Okay," Kim replied as they both sat around they sat around, "Thank you."

"Here put your shoes there to let them dry off. It gives our socks the chance to dry up from the snow. No offense and all but it will take a while for our feet to dry off. Listen you need to relax for a while and stop working. I don't want to be held accountable if anything happens to you on my watch."

"Fine by me then," Kim replied, "I'll sit for awhile."

"Kimberly?"

"What is it Lucas?"

"You…seem to amaze me today," Lucas replied, "I've never met any girl who didn't find me much of a brute or appealing. But you…you're different for some reason. With most people I meet the first time I get to know what kind of person they are by their personality and attitude. Most people who meet me find me intimidating or a looker. However you seem to be a different story Kimberly Hart. Most people who meet me always seem to ask me questions."

"I have my reasons. For one I don't really think there is nothing special about you Lucas and I don't think I find you much of interest. I don't feel I should open up about my personal life to people especially to people I'm working with. But still…don't take it the wrong way. I still think you're a very polite person Lucas Wicks."

"Do…ever wanted to ask me any questions? That's the one thing I noticed about you…that you don't seem to have any questions to ask."

"I don't want to ask anything because I don't have any questions in my mind. I seem to know that there is to know about you."

"Sometimes people assume that they think they know everything. Asking questions can bring the curiosity out of people. You may think you know a lot but not everybody knows everything about a person and hence they ask questions get to know them a bit better."

"There's nothing I don't want to know about you right now…maybe in another time."

"You probably…wouldn't tell me things like what is favorite color? What is favorite season? Do you have any hobbies or interests?" Lucas was asking Kimberly simple questions but she wasn't paying any attention to Lucas. But every time Lucas was looking at her, Kimberly can always imagine seeing Tommy in front of her. The way Lucas was acting reminded of the girl she was ten years ago…full of curiosity and with a lot of questions on her mind.

(FLASHBACK)

"Tommy? You want to know why I like you?"

"And why is that Beautiful?"

"Because…you're the first person that I feel I can connect with. You also seem to amaze me so much that I want to thank you for being there for me. I seem to misjudge you Tommy Oliver. I never imagine that you admitted that you liked me. You were always there for me and if I figured out by the way you acted towards me, I would have figured out that you were interested in me. I had a feeling…you would find me."

"I promise I'll never let you fall and that I will be there to always catch you. You know I've always wanted to tell you for a long time how I felt about you…but I was afraid you would reject me or you wouldn't feel the same way about me. I thought about you a lot as of lately and you want to know a secret?"

"And what secret is that?" Kim smiled, "Is it something true?"

"If I had the chance to ask a girl out for the first time," Tommy smiled, "The first girl I want to ask out…is you Kimberly. You really mean a lot to me Kim and it would mean a lot if you will go out with me sometime."

"You drove all around town to look for me," Kim said, "No one has ever done that for me before and knowing your intentions…I believe you're truly sincere. I've always had a thing for you since the karate expo. The every first time I saw you there was something about you that really intrigued me about you. The way you were there to cheer me on during one of my gymnastics contest and I remember how you rebuilt my float and then you tried to cheer me up during a bad day. Afterwards, everything you did for me from then on, I knew it would mean so much to me. I like you Tommy Oliver and I will go out with you."

(END OF FLASHBACK)

"Kimberly? Is there…something wrong?" Lucas asked as she began to tear up again, "Kim?"

"What…school did you go to?" Kimberly suddenly asked, "Did you go to Angel Grove High? Are you sure you spent most of your life aboard? Did you really live in Europe? Did you ever live in Angel Grove ten years ago?"

"Whoa settle down!" Lucas replied, "Where did all these questions come from?"

"Your glasses…can you take off your glasses for me?" Kim sighed, "Please…so I can see how you really look like."

"Kimberly settle down…is there a problem or something? Why are you crying?"

"I'm sorry…I don't know what came over me," Kimberly sighed, "If I tell you something can you promise…not to laugh aft me?"

"What do you want to tell me?" Lucas asked, "What is it?"

"It's just...that you…remind me of someone…" Kimberly murmured, "Someone that…" But before Kimberly could finish, there was a knock at the door.

"Can you hold on a second that must be the food," Lucas replied getting the door, "I told them we were up here working." When Lucas opened the door he was surprised when he was greeted with open arms with a surprise visit from his girlfriend.

"Surprise!" Kat smiled as she hugged him, "Are you glad to see me?"

"Katherine what are you doing here?" Lucas asked, "How did you get up here?"

"Well I drop by your office and Adam told me that you were up here for work," Kat said, "I wanted to surprise you by coming up here."

"I see was the weather bad coming up here?"

"It was okay," Kat replied as she turned to find Kimberly, "Oh my goodness Kimberly what are you doing here?"

"Kimberly is working with our company on the project," Lucas replied, "She's one of the project managers. I'm sorry…I didn't tell you earlier."

"No worries," Kat replied, "It's nice to see you again Kim."

"You too Katherine," Kim replied, "Sorry for the inconvenience on my behalf."

"So you two…are actually working together on this project?" Kat asked suspiciously, "Are you and Lucas working on this project for business only?"

"I'm positive," Kim replied firmly, "Is there a problem with that?"

"Oh…no problem at all," Kat replied slowly, "I'm…glad you're working with Lucas on this project." Kat felt a bit uncomfortable seeing Kimberly up here with Lucas that she was a bit edgy with the concept of the two of them working together, "Why should I be concerned about Kimberly working with Lucas? I don't know…out of all people how come Kimberly?"