AN: Oh my gosh! I didn't mean to hurt everyone from the last chapter! But I can't say I'm sorry, trust me, it's better this way and you shall see in time.
Chapter 24: The New Guy
Kimberly came back to the States to redo her photo shoot for her solo album and move back for good. It was early March. The pictures she had done while in Ireland just didn't cut it by Stuart's taste. He wanted something more edgy. They were still about 2 months from production release. Kimberly came back to be settled down before summer. It was lucky Zeke was so smart; he breezed through the change of school in Ireland, having finished 2nd grade ahead of schedule. Kimberly felt as an early birthday present to her eldest child she would move back to LA to be closer to Tommy. Kimberly knew Zeke missed not seeing his father all the time and the over 6 months apart was enough. Tim couldn't believe that his sister signed a deal with a rival company, but Kimberly knew she couldn't be on the same deal with her brother. Tommy was sitting in the driveway of Kim's new house. She would be arriving by taxi shortly. Kimberly had requested in the divorce to keep the much larger car, the silver Jeep Liberty, while Tommy kept his black Jeep Wrangler. Tommy loved that black Jeep even though it was Kimberly the one who picked the car out; she loved to zoom around LA in that Jeep while Tommy loved the Liberty family car. Kimberly looked up to see Tommy standing against his Jeep, looking just as handsome and sexy as the day she left him. Kimberly was a bit conscious of herself now. She quickly tried to fix her newly cut hair in the mirror. The taxi pulled up. Tommy smiled as he walked closer and was immediately caught in a huge hug as Zeke raced to his father. He was happy the boys, Adela and Kim were so close, which was Kim's surprise.
"Daddy!"
"Hey buddy! Woooah! You just saw me in January."
"But that was sooo long ago!" Kimberly let Charles and Adela go, who also rushed to hug Tommy. Kimberly paid the taxi driver as he pulled out her 4 large suitcase bags, 2 more smaller bags. Tommy looked up at his ex wife. She looked so pixie with her new short duo, just cropped around her face. Dressed in a teal blouson bra tank top with white Capri jeans and black bow-tie ballet flats. Kimberly brushed the lock of hair from her eye behind her ear.
"Hi."
"Hi Beautiful." Tommy kissed Kim's cheek. "I love your haircut."
"Thanks," Kimberly slightly laughed with a huge smile while attempting to flatten it down on the sides.
"It looks good."
"Is that all Miss?" Kimberly turned back to the cab driver.
"Oh yes, thank you." He nodded. Kimberly was happy Aisha and Tommy were able to be here when the moving company came early today and unloaded their things. Kimberly had only moved the items she wanted from the old place into storage, knowing she couldn't take it all to Ireland with her.
"Let me get those," Tommy said as Kimberly went to pick up some luggage. When Kimberly saw Tommy wasn't wearing his wedding band, she quickly pulled off her rings off with her back to Tommy. The fake string Tommy wrapped around her finger 10 years ago, when they were just 15 and so in love wouldn't come off though. Kimberly told Tommy she never cared about diamond rings and gold bands, so Tommy tore off a piece of string from his white shirt and wrapped it around her left ring finger. Kimberly swore whatever happened she would never take it off and she never did. Even when she dated Clark, she wore a silver band or costume ring to hide it. Kimberly pulled off her silver band on her middle ringer and covered the string with it.
"Kim?" Kimberly turned around.
"Huh?"
"You okay, you were standing there a while."
"I'm fine." Kimberly smiled. Kimberly led the way into the house and found boxes all around.
Aisha arrived from the shop with hugs and kisses for Kimberly and the children.
"Oh, I missed you!"
"How's business?"
"Oh, it's been good, but will be better once we get you back for good." Kimberly laughed. She had been sending clothing designs to Aisha, though she was living in Ireland briefly. Aisha just hated not being able to clearly discuss and fire idea off at Kimberly. They tried webcam and emails, but it wasn't the same. Aisha couldn't be happier to have her best friend, her sister back where she belongs. Kimberly decided on quitting work with Mr. Hansen at his Studio since she knew her Michael would have her touring to promote her album once it was to be released. Kimberly couldn't have 3 jobs, the clothing store, Gallery and music along with raising 3 kids. Tim would be back in the summer for a break before embarking on another year long tour, but this time starting on the West Coast, up and down the coastline line as they make their way around the country until the last show next fall. As Tommy was helping move some boxers, Kimberly caught eye with the wedding band on a necklace around Tommy's neck. Tommy saw her looking at it.
"What?"
"I just.." Kimberly shook her head. "Surprised you didn't pawn it."
"Why would I? I plan on wearing it again." Kimberly's mouth dropped. Tommy picked up another box and walked away. Tommy had a huge smile on his face, lucky all Kimberly could see was his back or she might have knocked that smile off his face.
Kimberly just wanted to bedrooms fixed at least so the kids could sleep in their new beds. She only had 3 bedrooms in her house unlike the old place that had 4. Zeke and the almost 2-year olds rooms were the same twin like size room side by side sharing one side of the upstairs while Kimberly's master bedroom was on the others side. Kimberly however had a nice space up the attic, which potential could be turned into something, what was too early to decide. But that will happen once Kimberly gets a feel of the new place. It was still just a place with walls, not a home. Tommy stayed to help Aisha and Kimberly, knowing the ladies could use all the extra hands and heavy lifting a man gives.
Aisha however had to leave to tend to the shop, leaving Kimberly and Tommy alone together for the first time in a long while.
"You sure you're okay?"
"Aisha, go…"
"I mean, I don't want to find out you killed him."
"Very funny, we were very civil during the divorce."
"Yeah, well with you in Ireland for most of it, it's easy to be nice and civil there."
"I'll be on my best behavior, scout's honor." Kimberly gave Aisha her best girl scout's salute. Aisha smiled.
"You better, I'm tired of that man crying on my shoulder."
"He didn't cry on your shoulder."
"Oh, there were tears." Kimberly looked at Aisha. Tommy only showed that weakness a few times, she was surprised Tommy actually cried on Aisha. Aisha didn't tell her that.
"Bye family! Great to see my babies home."
"Bye Auntie Aisha!" Zeke yelled.
"Babye!" Aisha gave all the kids kisses including Adela who formed that same Auntie relationship since Aisha visited them in Ireland whenever she could.
Tommy and Kimberly shared a sweet little family dinner with the kids after unloading a lot of things. Tommy even stayed behind to help clean up after dinner. .
"So, umm… what are you plans for tomorrow, will you be going back to the shop or Gallery or just taking a few days off since you just got back?" Kimberly was drying the plates as Tommy finished rinsing the last ones.
"I quit the Gallery and until I finish promotion for my album, the shop comes second."
"Oh, right."
"It's okay, Aisha understands."
"Good."
"I actually need a favor."
"Anything, within means of course." Kimberly smiled.
"Of course. Could you watch the kids?"
"It would be my pleasure."
"It's just… they are quite a handful, especially Adela on photo shoots. She thinks she's the star, not that I don't think so too, but I have to take new pictures for the album."
"Why? I loved.. liked the ones you showed me."
"Yeah, but Mr. Manager wants change with my new duo."
"Why did you cut it?"
"I was tired of it, especially with Chuck's greedy hands always in my hair," Kimberly said fixing the sides with a smile.
"He gets that from his father, I could never keep my hands out your hair." Tommy spoke so clearly and soft, as Kimberly looked up at Tommy. She knew that look, as she somewhat backed off this conversation.
"Tommy…"
"What?"
"Please…"
"Sorry, you're right. I'll pick up the kids about 10?"
"9 okay?"
"Sure, I'll be here on time at 9."
"Thanks."
"You want me to keep unloading until you get home?"
"Oh, that would be great, I mean, just move the boxes to their area, like kitchen stuff in the kitchen…"
"Bedroom stuff in the bedrooms, I get it."
"Thanks."
"No problem, Bea... Kimberly. I better get going." Tommy went to say goodnight to all the kids. Kimberly and Tommy walked slowly to the door, both seemingly not wanting to end the evening so soon. It had been a good first day together. Kimberly and Tommy both reached for the door and laughed when each wanted the other to open the door.
"Your house." Kimberly smiled and opened the front door.
"Okay. Thanks. Not many ex husbands would help so much."
"I'm not like any other ex-husband, Kim. You don't have to wonder or even ask, you call me and you need me and I will be here. We may not be married any more, but I love my children and I will always love you." Kimberly took a deep breath, emotions flooding her heart and mind.
"I… I uh, I feel the same." They hugged and Tommy kissed her cheek softly, but with little to no romance in mind. "Goodnight Tommy."
"Goodnight." Tommy walked down the few steps toward his car. Tommy and Kimberly shared a few stare before Tommy got into the car. Kimberly waved him down the driveway before closing the door. Kimberly leaned her back against the front door and touched her cheek. It still burned from the tiny kiss Tommy gave. She sighed.
After the successful release of Kimberly's first solo album, fame came quickly. Kimberly was being pulled to every radio station and television show for guest spots to hear her singing in California. The demand for her was high. Tommy always knew Kimberly was a star, so it wasn't that surprising at the overwhelming response and adoration from fans, though he could have lived a bit without the 2 big hefty security guards, her manager required on following her and the children around. Tommy had to make an appointment to see his ex wife and kids, since Kimberly always had them with her. Zeke loved that his mother was happy and of course didn't mind the attention, since he was out of school and knew when he started back in the fall, he too would be famous for his mother. Charles and Adela were still too young to truly comprehend it, they just knew a lot of people followed and took pictures of them.
Tommy was driving when he heard Kim's new second release single on the radio, a ballad way different from the hip hop, poplike song she started with. Tommy turned up the volume. This ballad was powerful, for all the women that has lost and felt the heartbreak of a broken relationship.
How Could The One I Gave My Heart To, Break My Heart So Bad?
How Could The One Who Made Me Happy, Make Me Feel So Sad?
Wont Somebody Tell Me? So I Can Understand.
If You Love Me, How Could You Hurt Me Like That?
How Could The One I Gave My World To, Throw My World Away?
How Could The One Who Said I Love You, Say The Things You Say?
How Could The One I Was So True Too, Just Tell Me Lies?
How Could The One I Gave My Heart To, Break This Heart Of Mine?
Tell Me...
How Could You Be So Cold To Me? When I Gave You Everything.
All My Love, All I Had Inside.
How Could you Just Walk Out The Door?
How Could You Not Love Me Anymore?
I Thought We Had Forever.
I Cant Understand.
How Could The One I Shared My Dreams With, Take My Dreams From me?
How Could The Love That Brought Such Pleasure, Bring Such Misery?
Wont Somebody Tell Me? Somebody Tell Me Please.
If You Love Me, How Could You Do That To Me?
Tell Me...
How Could you Just Walk Out The Door?
How Could You Not Love Me Anymore?
I Thought We Had Forever.
I Cant Understand.
How Could The One I Gave My Heart To, Break My Heart So Bad?
How Could The One Who Made Me Happy, Make Me Feel So Sad?
Wont Somebody Tell Me? So I Can Understand.
If You Love Me, How Could You Hurt Me Like That?
How Could The One I Gave My World To, Throw My World Away?
How Could The One Who Said I Love You, Say The Things You Say?
How Could The One I Was So True Too Just Tell Me Lies?
How Could The One I Gave My Heart To...
How Could The One I Gave My Heart To...
How Could The One I Gave My Heart To Break This Heart of Mine?
Tell Me...
6 months later
It was November now. Kimberly came walking down the stairs when she paused. Charles and Adela were still napping upstairs from their 2pm naptime, thank goodness having been brats all morning. Kimberly was happy to have bathed them already, which brought on the sleepyheads. They just got to put on their special outfits for tonight's party. Zeke was outside with Noel still. She had warned those boys not to play basketball so soon before the party. Tonight would be a party to bring together all her family with Noel's family for the first. Kimberly didn't know there was another surprise in store. Kimberly was just happy that Noel's parents were finally accepting her and the kids. Kimberly would be going on tour for her first cross-country concert shows starting in January. Some would say it was quick turn around. This time last year she was married to Tommy, now seriously dating again. Kimberly had met Robert Noel Thompson. Though everyone called him Robert or Robby, Kimberly called him Noel, preferring that name than what his buddies and family called him. He was born 3 years older on the exact same day as Charles, May 8th. It was a funny story how Kimberly met Noel. She was last second shopping for Charles's second birthday when she and Noel grabbed at the same party cups.
Kimberly was rushing, though she didn't need to be. She had a few hours before the party would be starting. If only Tommy hadn't forgotten the cups, she wouldn't be in the store. Kimberly went to reach for some large party cups when this gorgeous guy did the same.
"Oh, sorry." In the guy's haste to give Kimberly the cups, he ended up knocking over more cups and they fell on Kim's head.
"Ow!" Kimberly slightly bent over when the multiple bags of cups hit her head one after another.
"Oh, I am so sorry!"
"It's okay, I guess," Kimberly said feeling her head. Kimberly surveyed the ground of plastic cups. "Plastic, not metal." They both shared a laugh as they bent down to pick up the fallen cups.
"Birthday party?" The guy asked.
"Yeah, my son."
"Oh, how old?"
"2."
"2! That's a great age. It's my birthday today too."
"Oh, wow, happy birthday!"
"Thanks. My name is Robert."
"Kimberly…" They shook hands.
"Look, I feel somewhat guilty about knocking you in the head with rounds of plastic cups.." They both laughed.
"It's okay. No harm. I promise."
"H-how about I buy you a cup of coffee."
"Uh, coffee?"
"You like coffee right?"
"Yeah…"
"Then come on, it's just a cup."
"Right, okay."
Neither could see that how one shared cup of coffee and conversation turned into where they were now. Noel was born in England, though moved to LA back in '02. Noel was drop-dead gorgeous, about 6 feet, with brownish blonde hair and blueish gray eyes that you could get lost in. Growing up, some would claim him to be a pompous rich boy, spoiled by his family's riches, and at times he had the charm of feeling he could win any man's girlfriend. The Thompson family was well known in United Kingdom for their business, and even Noel's uncle was in the British Parliament creating laws and stuff. But Noel was a bit of a outcast, since he dreamed of America and making his living there. He played the guitar and piano pretty well, and not surprising he did modeling which got him into the United States. He did some Theater work back in London, and was looking for a big blockbuster movie break here in the States, until then he did modeling. Noel did hide a first from Kimberly that he came from riches, but when his parents turns up in their own private jet, Kimberly knew. At first the Thompsons didn't take kindly to their only son's love for Kimberly. Especially since Kimberly came with baggage of her own kids. But Noel fell madly in love with Kimberly and if anyone tried to stray him away, he would angrily fight back. He fought for his relationship with Kimberly since he felt his parents didn't fight against anything his sisters did, especially when one of his 2 sisters married that wanna-be punk rocker from Ireland.
Kimberly checked her reflection in a mirror right before the last few steps. Noel came from the kitchen with a bottle of water as he was playing basketball with Zeke for a bit. Both had their shirts off, though wearing their dressy pants and black shiny shoes.
"I thought you were wearing the pink dress?" Kimberly stood in a red sequined halter neck and ribbon sash bust tie dress with tiered skirt and ruffles.
"Well now, I like this one. I just finished it with Aisha a few days ago."
"Its look very pretty Mommy."
"Thanks baby," Kimberly said smiling as she played with the ruffles.
"But I thought we agreed on the pink dress."
"No, Noel, you agreed you wanted the pink dress because of your mother, but I like this one."
"Come one, the pink dress makes you look cute."
"Exactly, I don't want to be cute tonight, it's our engagement party."
"Wear the pink dress Kim. Goes better with those gold sandals." Kimberly sighed, biting her bottom lip. Noel reached up and kissed away that pout Kimberly gave. "For my mother please." Kimberly sighed.
"Fine." Kimberly but on a fake huge smile.
"Thanks. You better hurry and change, you still have to dress those babies." Kimberly took the second kiss from Noel before she turned and went back upstairs to change.
"Come on son, let's finish the game."
"Okay!" Zeke and Noel went back outside.
"Don't get too sweaty, the party is in a few hours!" Kimberly yelled.
The party would start at the shore until all the family, friends and guests arrived, then move the dinner out to sea once it got dark enough. Noel's parents had one of the biggest yacht for the evening's celebration. Noel had told them about Kim's fantasy of a party on the water. It was an intimate affair-taking place on water looking back at the bright city light. Noel and Kimberly were sure to invite as many people as they could, especially Noel. At first, Kimberly felt a nice cocktail drinks and dessert party at sea would be great after renting out a restaurant for dinner. But it was Noel's idea to basically have the whole thing on the water.
Kimberly was holding hands with Noel smiling as champagne passed around freely. Kimberly was eyeing the antipasta tray wheeling around, but the nerves made her shy from eating. Noel was trying to get Kimberly to get around to meeting everyone and he meant everyone. Kimberly excused herself to get a drink when Aisha stopped her. Aisha looked at Kimberly's change of outfit once she got into the limo with her; surprised Kimberly changed, knowing how much Kimberly worked quickly to finish the other dress. Aisha didn't get a chance to ask Kimberly why the switch. Kimberly hated that pink dress Noel's mother had created for her from some fashion guru of Europe.
"I thought you were wearing the red dress." Kimberly looked great in the rose strapless dress with gold embellished empire waist and faux-bubble hem nonetheless, but her heart wasn't into the pink dress since it wasn't her dress, but Noel's mother idea of what a soon-to-be Thompson should wear.
"If it makes his mother happy…"
"But…"
"It's no big deal Aisha."
"Of course it is, it starts with telling you how to dress, next comes how to act and…"
"Please, they are just not as informal as us…"
"Yes, how proper the British are." Aisha gave her British accent. Kimberly laughed.
"Stop teasing." Kimberly picked up another glass of champagne, when Noel came pulling the glass from her mouth. "Hey!"
"Come with me."
"Wha…" Noel dragged Kimberly away before she could protest. "Noel, stop it!" Kimberly pulled back. Kimberly fought Noel dragging her around like some kid
"Darling, you can talk to Aisha anytime."
"Well yes, but that's not the point!"
"What's wrong? Don't you want to meet my great aunt…"
"It's too much!"
"Kimberly…"
"I just… I feel like I can't breathe here! You keep shoving some uncle or cousin or… whatever at me!" Noel sighed.
"I'm sorry. I just wanted you to meet everyone tonight and be comfortable with them, I am being a pain. I apologize." Kimberly touched Noel's face. "We'll take things slower."
"I'm sorry too, I shouldn't have snapped." They kissed.
Tommy was in the background, staying out of sight, knowing it would upset Kimberly and especially Noel if he were seen uninvited. Tommy couldn't believe how far they had come along since that faithful meeting over plastic cups. If he hadn't forgotten to buy some cups would they be here? Tommy remembered the day he was introduced to the new guy in Kim's life by Zeke. But Tommy couldn't say much against Noel, because to his sons, Adela and Kimberly, he was the perfect gentleman. His comments in quiet to Tommy were typically of a guy trying to replace some past memories. Noel was always caring and treating Kimberly, the boys and Adela as if they were the most important things in the world to him. Tommy smiled as he saw Charles and Adela running around. Zeke was not far behind them. Tommy wasn't paying attention as he walked around. Aisha had caught Tommy and practically dragged him to the restroom area to yell at him away from the crowd. She couldn't believe he would sneak on board, this was Noel and Kimberly's night and if either of them saw him, a fight would happen. A man came up to Tommy and offered him some shrimp toast appetizer.
"Oh no thank you." Tommy turned and found himself right in the path of Noel and Kimberly. Tommy went to sneak away back into the shadows. Tommy went to go downstairs for a while, but someone called his name. Tommy was standing at the bottom steps as Noel was at the top.
"Well, well, snuck on board I see. Not surprised though, I expected this much from you."
"Look man…"
"No, you look. I don't know how you did it, and I don't care why. But if I see your face again, you're going overboard."
"Don't think you can get me out of Kim's life or our children's."
"I don't have to think, it's already happening."
"In your dreams."
"Oh no, Tommy my friend, my dreams are real." Tommy looked angrily at Noel. "It's my name she screams at night. My name she moans when I'm licking every inch of her." Tommy was disgusted.
"Not for long, she will eventually come back to me. We are soulmates." Noel laughed.
"Soulmates? What a fantasy word. There is no such thing."
"We are destined to be together."
"Destined? There is no such thing as two people meant for each other. You had your chance and you blew it. You chose a job over your wife and family." Noel laughed again. "And she dumped you like yesterday's trash. And now, you are just a memory, I am her future. Kimberly and I will have the future you always wanted, but lost. A future you didn't stay and fight for. I am your sons' future, I am your niece's future, and you will be distant memory."
"I won't disappear that easily or at all. What Kimberly and I have…"
"Had? I am in her heart now."
"I will always be in her heart. No one will ever compare. All she has to do is look at our sons' faces and she'll remember, and she'll come back to me."
"Not after tonight. You'll see." Noel smiled and walked away. Tommy always hated this idea Noel keep throwing in his face, how he was the past and Noel was the future. It sickened Tommy, but he couldn't fight with Kimberly over it. She was upset enough that Noel and Tommy never truly get along, just for her benefit, because she knows when she is not there, they argue and sometimes almost come to blows of fists.
Noel stood up suddenly before the start of dinner. Kimberly was somewhat taken back, wondering what was up. He held his huge glass of white wine and held his other hand out for Kimberly. She smiled with a slight laugh as she stood up with him after taking his hand. Kimberly felt Noel's fairly sweaty pawn.. Kimberly thought Noel was just nervous about wanting to give the toast to the guests and food before they ate. Noel put his arm around Kimberly on her shoulder. Kimberly looked up at Noel, she was worried now.
"I just want to take this time once again to welcome everyone, the Hart family and friends with the Thompson family and friends." Noel looked at Kimberly. "We are here to celebrate Kimberly and mine's relationship with our families and friends coming together for the first time in literally a vast group…" Noel turned to Kimberly. "But there is another reason for this joyous union of our families and friends." Kimberly smiled, though she squeezed Noel's hand wondering where he was taking this. "This is not just a family get together, but… I love you Kimberly…" Noel kissed Kim's hand after putting down his glass. Kimberly knew something was up now with everyone smiling at her, and Noel hadn't really been himself all day. Noel pulled something out his pocket and held it concealed in his hand.
"I know. I love you too."
"And I want to know…" Noel got down to one knee. Everyone gasped. BAM! "Will you marry me?" Kimberly's heart contracted, as she sucked in air. Noel opened the small black box with a sparkling diamond ring shining back at her. BAM! Kim's heart stopped briefly. Kimberly dropped her glass of white. Noel laughed. "I guess I surprised you."
"What are you doing Noel?" Kimberly asked very shocked out her shoes. She always thought there was something simple and sweet and sincere about surprises coming out of nowhere, but this just about stopped her heart.
"Asking for your hand in marriage."
"Noel…"
"Say you'll marry me, say you'll make me even more happier than I already am thanks to you." Kimberly slightly shook her head as she stared at Noel and the ring. "Will you marry me Kimberly?"
"Yes."
"What was that?"
"Yes!" Kimberly cupped Noel's face as he came up quickly and kissed her. The crowd clapped and cheered. Noel slid the ring on her finger and picked up Kimberly, twirling them around. Kimberly laughed. Kimberly looked toward the back of the crowd and saw Tommy's face. The smile on her face dropped at Tommy's face of utter shock, not believing she would agree to marry this man, any man, so quickly.
"I love you!" Noel hugged Kimberly after putting her down. Kimberly was rather slow to react, her eyes still on Tommy. Almost immediately, she tore her eyes from Tommy, not knowing to take his disappointment or that fact that she just broke his heart.
"I… I love you too."
"Oh you make me happy!" Noel cupped Kimberly's face and kissed her again. Kimberly and Noel smiled at each other, but Kim's smile was more for show.
Kimberly started her United States tour in January. She was happy to be able to tour around the West Coast first, staying closer to Zeke, though he was in school, so he couldn't come to but a few shows in California before he had to fly back. He loved his private plane flights that the Company supplied Kimberly since she was its new hot thing. Tommy and Kimberly had agreed to have Zeke move in with Tommy while Kimberly was on tour. It was the only logically solution, since Tommy had moved briefly from the Island to Dr. Mercer's LA base Industry. The concerts were mind blowing, action packed with the songs and dancing choreography Kimberly had to learn and do each night for 4 straight months. Kimberly was happy to have Noel on tour with her. He helped out greatly with Charles. Adela was allowed to see Tim more these days since his tour dates were around Kim's dates. They would be on different days and different locations, but sometimes they were barely a few hour drive apart from each other. Kimberly loved to take her free days and go see her brother and his band perform. And Tim did the same.
Months Later
Kimberly and Noel were doing the plans for their late spring wedding. Noel had stressed to Kimberly after her tour ended, he wanted a wedding to follow. Kimberly was sort of torn. She loves Noel, she found him when she wasn't looking to settle down and yet here they were. Kimberly couldn't believe the plans and ideas that Noel had set forth for their wedding. Their wedding day was set for June 12th 2006. Not only was it happening in England, at the Grand Estate of the Thompson, with over 30 acres of lavishly landscaped gardens that gave the feel of extreme exotic beauty and the Mansion fit for a King, any king! Kimberly basically didn't have to lift a finger. Noel had the most prized wedding planner do everything. Kimberly just had to shake her head no or nod for yes.
Noel swept Kimberly away when she had a bit of a 3-day break from her tour to England. He showed her around the Thompson mansion. It wasn't where Noel grew up of course, this was more a family owned place. It was tucked away in a peaceful valley surrounded by hills and sparkling waters. Kimberly couldn't believe how serene a setting this place offered.
"And here's where we would take a beautiful horse and carriage ride around after the wedding, just the two of us." Kimberly smiled. She took in another deep breath of the sweet floral laced breeze that gently blew around them.
"It's really beautiful. Is this really where your parents were married?"
"Where all Thompson get married. It's the only place that suit us."
"It's so beautiful."
"And it's ours. I told you once you see this place, you would believe me."
"It's just so… much!"
"There is never too much for you." Kimberly smiled wrapping her arms around Noel's waist. He did the same across her shoulders.
It was about a week before the wedding, Noel came into the bedroom and found the place a mess. Kimberly had finished her touring for almost a month now. It was July 3rd. Kimberly still had yet to pack for their wedding travels. Charles and Adela were running around and playing in the mess of clothes. They would be leaving for England in 2 days.
"Uhh… sweetie, what's going on?"
"I can't figure out what the hell to wear."
"For the plane ride?"
"Of course! I can't just get off the plane in sweats, what would your mother think?!"
"Oh sweetie, you're too funny." Noel calmed Kimberly down, rubbing her back and arms.
"I need to go shopping. Can you watch the babies?"
"Of course."
Kimberly rushed to the shop. Aisha was surprised to see Kimberly. Kimberly had complained about not still being packed for the wedding and honeymoon wanting to spend the day doing that.
"Coming to work?"
"I need you."
"For what?"
"We need to go on a shopping spree."
"We just went on a spree 2 days ago."
"I know! I know! But what I picked out just won't suit Mother Thompson."
"Why are you so interested in Mother Thompson?"
"Because I know what it is like to have a mother-in-law hate you."
"Tommy's mother didn't hate you, she just…"
"Hated me. I won't go through that again. Wearing that dress at the engagement party really helped…"
"And then you gave up all wedding decisions to this Juliet woman."
"It's what Noel wanted, so we wouldn't have stress about the wedding."
"But it's your wedding, you should have more to do than nod or shake your head. Besides, you're wearing like the family wedding dress too! I think that's enough Kim. If this family doesn't like you, that's their problem not yours to worry over."
"I guess, but still just a few hours, for a few pieces."
"You have already brought tons from this place, what more could you use?!"
"Plenty." Aisha rolled her eyes.
"Fine, give me 5 minutes."
"Thank you!" Kimberly hugged Aisha.
"I can't believe you're getting married twice! I haven't even gotten close to one wedding! Always a bridesmaid I guess."
"Oh, you're next, I can feel it."
"No, Zack is marrying that singer in August, and Tanya and Adam are getting married in the October remember, then probably Jason and Katherine in the spring. Everyone's going to be married but me."
"And Rocky. Besides, Billy was married way before any of us, before high school finished to Cestria."
"Poor Billy. It was sad when Cestria died," Aisha said. Back during the Zeo ranger days, Billy began to age very rapidly and had to go to Aquitar to the Eternal Falls in hops to reverse his aging affects. That was where he fell in love with Cestria. Billy lived in Aquitar for many years after that, going back to Earth for special occasions or whenever a ranger needed him. Cestria died about 3 years ago now. Billy was not one to discuss his problems, but with some digging, the rangers found out about her death.
"Yeah, he was pretty lost for a while," Kimberly said. Billy engrossed himself in anything, everything technology related, not wanting to stop for one minute to think about his lost. It took a ranger intervention for those scars to heal. "But we have our Billy back. Now, not to be selfish, but you said, 5 minutes."
"Oh right, let me just tell the others I'll be back to help close up."
"Thanks."
Noel covered Charles's head as Kimberly did the same with Adela's head with their jackets as they exited the private jet when arriving to England. Zeke walked closer next to his mother, shielding his eyes from all the flashes from cameras. The Paparazzi filled the airport as soon as they arrived. Kimberly couldn't believe how popular she was with UK thanks to her album of a scorned woman losing one love and now gaining it back with her new relationship with one of the most elite and eligible bachelors in the UK. The Mansion was the setting for Kimberly and Noel's wedding. It had a flashback in time to the romance and charm of the Victorian era. It had a magnificent Crystal Ballroom, beautifully adorned with its towering Swarovski Crystal Chandeliers.
Kimberly stood staring out at the garden. The wedding rehearsal went off without a problem, other than one brief moment when Tommy tried to crash it, but Aisha and Tim held him back from ruining things. After dinner, Kimberly was away from the crowd, just wanting to reflect over things in private. Since she arrived to England, she hadn't had a moment to herself, always being pulling here and there thanks to Noel's parents and the wedding planner. Kimberly had last minute fitting, plus she had to decide on hair and make-up having done none of that until she arrived.
"Hey, you okay?" Kimberly turned to find Noel standing there. She smiled.
"Yeah, just, it's a bit hot."
"You sure?"
"I'm okay Noel."
"Okay." Noel wrapped his arms around her waist. "Cold feet?"
"Of course not. I can't wait until tomorrow."
"Good."
"But…"
"But what?"
"Maybe, I hate to ask, but could I leave?"
"Why?"
"Just to get some rest."
"Oh, of course. You shouldn't have to ask if you are feeling a bit tired, don't you dare mind leaving the party. The wedding is the most important thing." Kimberly smiled and kissed Noel on the cheek. "Do you want me to take you upstairs?"
"No, I can manage, thanks."
"Well, I don't think you should." Noel bent down and hooked Kimberly by behind her knees and back and lifted Kimberly into his arms. She smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck. "It would be my pleasure to escort my future wife to bed for the last time alone." Kimberly laid her head against his shoulder and enjoyed the short trip inside and up to her bedroom.
Kimberly stood, leaning over the railing to her balcony, unable to sleep after being tucked into bed by Noel. It was the closer she got to the wedding, the more sleep she has lost. She had nothing truly to worry about, her vows were done, and everything was already thanks to Juliet, the wedding planner. Why couldn't she sleep? Her wedding is tomorrow to Noel, she needed to be sleeping. Kimberly sighed staring out at the stars. So many stars. Kimberly slipped on her black sheer long robber over her white satin nightie. Kimberly slipped into some white plush flip flops. Kimberly knew a walk around the gardens might clear her mind and whatever reason why she was restless tonight or all nights.
Kimberly stepped into the gardens, after touching the large walls. Tommy sneaked up into Kimberly's room, wanting to talk to her, talk some sense into her before tomorrow. He knew tonight would be the last time he would get this chance. Tommy found her room bare. Tommy saw the balcony doors open and went to see if she was outside. Tommy could see a figure in the distance deep in the gardens. Tommy knew there could be only person that foolish to be alone in a complex garden scheme.
Kimberly had been walking around and around for hours in the garden.
"Hello! Hello! Can anyone hear me!" She had walked to clear her mind about her wedding in the morning, but now she was lost in a seemingly endless garden. "Hello! Hello! Anyone please! I'm lost!" Kimberly was so mad at leaving her cell phone on her dresser. She would be lost in the garden forever at this rate. All of a sudden, Kimberly heard someone. "Hello! Aisha! Please if anyone can hear me…" Kimberly rushed to the rustling noise.
"Stay where you are and keep talking," a voice called out.
"Okay! What do I say?"
"Anything!"
"Uh, okay…" Kimberly went on and on about the wedding, what she was allowed to do and not do.
"So, you wanted yellows and pink roses, but no so much peach?" Kimberly spun around. She knew that voice. Kimberly saw Tommy walking toward her.
"Tommy?"
"Hey."
"What are you doing here?"
"I was looking for you."
"I feel like I have been walking around this garden for hours! But how did you know I was here?"
"I have been here for only 10 minutes searching for you. When Aisha refused to let me see you earlier, I had to sneak into your room tonight, and found your bedroom bare."
"Well, do you know how to get out of here?" Tommy shook his head, not wanting to waste any more time on this useless conversations.
"First, can we talk about something, anything else?" Tommy asked.
"Tommy, I really am tired and…."
"Please."
"NO! I know why you are here."
"Do you?"
"Tommy, if you came here to tell me to call off my marriage, it's not going to work!"
"Did I ask that?"
"No! I just… I'm sorry, what are you here for?" Tommy sighed.
"I am actually here on other business."
"Other business?"
"More important than a wedding." Kimberly was confused.
"I don't know what can more important than my wedding right now, but…."
"Promise you won't get upset?"
"Why? What are you holding behind your back?" From behind Tommy's back he pulled out a black small bag. He held it up to Kimberly. Kimberly looked at the black bag. She shook her head.
"What is this? You could have brought your present to the wedding tomorrow."
"This is not that type of present. Take it." Kimberly did. She pulls out another black square velvet box too big to be just for a ring or any other type of jewelry.
"Tommy…." Kimberly opens the top and found 3 gems, one red, one yellow and one blue. Kimberly looked into Tommy's eyes. She looked down at the gems and back at Tommy. And then it all clicked in her head. "No!"
Kimberly always knew that those Ranger days and the business would never leave their lives. Kimberly and Tommy ended up getting into a heavy fight with very harsh words yelled against each other over those very gems; Kimberly couldn't believe Tommy would bring this business back into their lives. Kimberly had left the Ranger world and Tommy had his brief stint when all the Red Rangers grouped together, but this is different. These gems mean for more than one Ranger mission. All Tommy wanted her to do was to keep the gems safe. Tommy didn't expect anything else, didn't want anything else. He had found the gems and she was the one person he trusts to watch over them. Kimberly's scream of words was cruel, crueler than anything she could have said to Tommy. She knew it, but she had to make a point. This was too dangerous for one to carrying it's secret and Tommy knew that.
"You cannot be bringing this back into my life."
"I need you to keep these safe while I…"
"No, no Tommy! You take these stones and…" Kimberly shoved the box into Tommy's chest, but he pushed them back at her. Kimberly was not willing to have her children, her new life, put in the middle of any Ranger business.
"Kimberly, I have to…"
"You are endangering our sons and Adela, Noel, his family, everyone we know with this! And my family will not put in harm's way because of this!"
"You think I don't realize that! I wish these gems never came under my protection! But I can't change it now!"
"Yes you can!"
"How Kim?"
"You can dump them! Throw them away!"
"And what happens when they come into evil hands!"
"What evil?! There's hasn't been evil around on Earth for over 2 years now!"
"But there is always evil!"
"I can't believe you!"
"I'm sorry."
"Sorry? This is sorry," Kimberly shoved Tommy away. "That's something a person can apologize for, not this! This is crazy!" Kimberly shoved Tommy again. Tommy had enough of arguing with Kimberly and hushed her with a kiss. Kimberly gasped and pulled back. She shook her head and wanted to forget that kiss though his kiss still lingered on her lips. Tommy and Kimberly stared at each other. Kim's mouth was still lightly open from Tommy's kiss.
Tommy roughly pulled the silky robe from her arms. It pooled at her feet. His hands roamed up her sides back to her face, as their kisses went to another level. The way his hands moved up her arms, there were goosebumps, but not from the cold. Kimberly just felt so overwhelmed with the ache to have him again. Moans and the sound of lips locked together, tongues battling fiercely filled the garden. Kimberly was hungry for more of him. Tommy refused to release her lips, as his hands moved down, under her white nightgown to Kim's hips. Kimberly gasped, then moaned into Tommy's mouth, as he gripped her butt with his hands. Tommy was giving her butterflies. Butterflies in her fucking stomach just from kisses. Tommy smiled and loved the feeling of her lacey butt cheeks in his hands. He went to raise her dress up from the bottom, but then he stopped. Tommy's hand moved from her ass, getting a slight whimper from Kimberly, as his hands moved up her back. Tommy smiled.
"You have to say it, you have to want me…" Tommy whispered. "Tell me Beautiful…"
"I…I…Tommy…" Tommy pulled her straps down enough as he kissed her again, softly on the lips before moving down her chest. His mouth circled her nipple with lust, as he sucked, as if a newborn baby taking its mother's milk. His tongue swirled around her rosy nipple that stood out. Tommy looked up at Kimberly after pulling the straps to her nightgown back up, her fingers buried deep into his hair. They kissed again, before Kimberly moved him back to where she ached the most. Tommy smiled and moved to her other breast, kissing around the nipple, but it was covered in silk, tasting just as sweet. Tommy pulled the strap down enough on that side, as he gave that nipple the same homage. His mouth sucked and nibbled around her breast. Kimberly could only moan to wanting more. Tommy moved down to her stomach. Kimberly smiled and slightly pushed his head up. She was ticklish there and he knew it. Tommy caressed and licked around her navel.
"Tommy!"
"Tell me you want this Beautiful." Tommy came up, taking her face into his hands kissing her again. "Tell me." Kimberly felt his hardness pressed against her stomach. Tommy kissed the spot right behind her ear. She moaned, her mind fighting her desires. Tommy's body pressed against her. This was wrong, so wrong. She was to be married in hours from now yet her body burned for this. Being around Tommy, their chemistry always was seducing to the other. And he said she was his drug, his voice alone and the way he touches her, there is no drug alive that can compare to that wonderful sensation. Kimberly fought her mind, and followed her impulses. Kimberly's hand quickly went to Tommy's belt. In a fiery Tommy's belt and pants were undone. Tommy with ease lifted Kimberly up from her feet and her legs wrapped around his waist. Kimberly felt Tommy press his finger against her opening. He was testing her willingness. Just as Tommy slid one finger inside her opening and she froze with a gasp. Just as Tommy slid another, Kimberly cried out. Sweetness of her release came that quick with just his finger, she couldn't imagine the feeling with him buried deep, balls deep inside. The realization flooded her mind.
"No." Kimberly was shaking.
"What?"
"No!" Kimberly pushed away from Tommy as he was lining up to slid deep into her. "NO!" Tommy felt the coolness of the air as Kimberly just about flew from his body. She picked up the black case and her robe as she rushed away.
"Kimberly?"
"Stay away from me!" Kimberly dressed herself as she raced away. "I'll do what you ask, I'll keep the gems with me! I'll keep them safe! Now go away!" Tommy was not far behind trying to fix his pants.
"Kimberly wait!"
"Don't come closer to me Tommy! I mean it, stay away!"
"Kimberly, come on!"
"I can't trust myself around you."
"Doesn't that show you something?"
"Stop it!"
"You can't marry a guy that doesn't make you feel, make your body feel as good as I just did."
"Stop it!" Kimberly screamed. "It's over!"
Song lyrics used: Aaliyah- The One I Gave My Heart To
AN: Thanks everyone! Next Chapter: The Bloody Lip, what will happen when a wedding is interrupted by a fight? Will Tommy's confession be enough? Tune in to find out! :P