Disclaimer: Please note the medical procedures or information in this story is purely a work of fiction. Any similarities to real life events are a coincidence. Please do not take or use any information given in this story and apply it to real life situations. I am not a doctor and I don't know any information about the medical field.
Chpt 87 – It's My Birthday and I Can Invite Who I Want To – Part 1
Brandon is at his apartment. He is sitting on the couch. Kelly walks in.
"Ok, it's a done deal. You got the apartment downstairs," smiled Kelly.
"Good. I was a bit worried at first that it was taken," said Brandon.
"Me too. But after the new guy heard you're in a wheelchair, he insisted that you take it," said Kelly.
"I'm glad. Nice guy," said Brandon.
"I'm glad you decided to move downstairs. Now, it'll be easier to go outside," said Kelly.
"Call me crazy but I'm actually excited to get my wheelchair," said Brandon.
"And I'm excited for you…..and you're not crazy. In fact, I'd say that you're finally thinking clearly," said Kelly.
"Thank you. I couldn't have done this without you," said Brandon.
"Thank you but I think you're giving me too much credit," said Kelly.
"Can I give you a hug?" asked Brandon extending his arms out.
Kelly gives him an odd reaction look.
"Sure," replied Kelly sitting next to him and obliging his request.
Kelly hugs Brandon.
"Thanks for everything," said Brandon.
"You're welcome," said Kelly.
"Thanks for taking care of me," said Brandon.
"You're welcome," said Kelly.
"And thanks for helping me move," said Brandon.
"Say what?" asked Kelly breaking the hug.
Kelly gives Brandon a cringe look on her face before turning into a smile.
Brandon's worried look turns into a smile too.
"You're welcome," said Kelly.
They hug again.
We see some slow and fast paced moving scenes of everyone helping Brandon move into his new apartment.
Brandon and Kelly are having a meal at Brandon's place. They are in the kitchen having a meal together.
"I have to say that I like this apartment much more than your old one," said Kelly.
"Me too. It sure is easier to get to," said Brandon.
Kelly stops eating and looks around. Brandon notices.
"Something wrong?" asked Brandon.
"No. I was just thinking that we should do a housewarming party," replied Kelly.
"Really?" asked Brandon.
"Yeah, I think it'll be fun. It's a bigger space. We can invite all our friends," replied Kelly.
"Why? Everyone's already seen the space when they were here to help move," said Brandon.
"Yeah…but…..," said Kelly noticing Brandon is looking at her with a blank stare.
"Ok, I understand. If you don't want to have it, it's ok," said Kelly.
"Thanks…I'll think about it," said Brandon.
"Ok," said Kelly.
"You know….your birthday is coming up. We could do a birthday party," said Kelly.
"I don't know," said Brandon.
"It's ok if you don't want to. I don't want you to be uncomfortable, especially on your birthday," said Kelly.
"Thanks," said Brandon.
Kelly gives Brandon a weak smile.
Brandon is the Lakeshore Physical Therapy office. He is working on the balance beams moving from one end to another.
Tina comes over to Brandon.
"Not bad, Brandon. You are moving so fast these days," said Tina smiling.
"Thanks," said Brandon taking seat.
Brandon is trying to catch his breath. Tina notices.
"Do yourself a favor; don't overdo it," said Tina.
"Thanks. I'll try not to," said Brandon.
"So, how's the new place?" asked Tina.
"It's good. I had a lot of help from friends and family with the move," replied Brandon.
"Good. That's nice of them to help," said Tina.
"Yeah, they're the best. I felt bad since I couldn't help at all. I feel like I was just getting in the way of everyone," said Brandon.
"No, they're your family. They help because they love you," said Tina.
"Thanks," said Brandon.
Tina smiles at Brandon.
"In fact, I was thinking…as a way to thank them, I was thinking about having a small housewarming party at my place; you know….just very casual," said Brandon acting sort of nervous.
"Good; good for you," said Tina.
"Would you like to come? That is if you want to," asked Brandon.
"Umm…I'm not sure about this," replied Tina.
"Ok, you don't have to if you don't want to," said Brandon.
"No, it's not that I don't want to…it's just that I think me being in a wheelchair, I'll just be in the way of everyone," said Tina.
"No, the apartment is bigger than my previous one. There's plenty of space for everyone," said Brandon.
"I don't know. I just don't act well in social gatherings," said Tina.
"Really? You seem so open and supportive," asked Brandon.
"That's very sweet of you," replied Tina.
"I guess that's because you're a nice guy, Brandon…and I feel comfortable talking to you," added Tina.
"My friends are just like me; they're all very supportive," said Brandon.
"I don't know," said Tina.
"Did I mention that it'll also be my birthday party?" asked Brandon.
"Really? It's actually your birthday?" asked Tina.
"Yeah. I have proof," replied Brandon starting to take out his wallet.
Tina laughed as she's surprised as she sees Brandon taking out his wallet.
"No need….I believe you," said Tina stopping Brandon from getting out his wallet.
"I don't want to pressure you but please come if you want to," said Brandon.
"Well, don't try too hard to make me feel guilty," said Tina sarcastically.
"Sorry, I'm not trying to. It's up to you," said Brandon.
"I'll see if I can make it. When is it?" asked Tina.
Brandon doesn't respond right away.
"Soon….but we're still trying to figure out the date. I'll get back to you," said Brandon feeling embarrassed.
"Sounds good," said Tina smiling.
Brandon smiles back.
Brandon, Kelly, and Winnie are in the car. Kelly is driving. Brandon is holding the bassinet with Winnie.
"So, I was thinking about what you said earlier….about the birthday party," said Brandon.
"Yeah?" asked Kelly.
"Maybe we can have a party, like sort of like a low-key sort of thing," replied Brandon.
"Ok. Sounds good. What changed your mind?" asked Kelly smiling at Brandon.
"Oh nothing. I just thought it'll be nice to see everyone and have a meal together….it doesn't need to be about me at all," replied Brandon feeling sort of embarrassed.
"No no no….of course, it has to be about you. It's your birthday. I agree. It'll be good to see everyone and enjoy a meal together at your new apartment," said Kelly.
"Me too," said Brandon.
"So, when do you want to have this?" asked Kelly.
"Any day is good," replied Brandon.
"Great. I guess I'll ask everyone to see when everyone's free," said Kelly.
"Ok. Thanks. I'll pay for whatever it costs," said Brandon.
"No no no; it's your birthday. You don't have to pay for anything. We'll take care of it," said Kelly giving Brandon a small pat on the shoulder.
"Thanks; just something simple would be fine," said Brandon.
"Sounds good. Whatever you want," said Kelly.
They stay silent for a bit.
"Do you think it'll be ok if I invite Tina?" asked Brandon.
"Sure…yeah," replied Kelly.
"Good. Thanks," said Brandon sounding relived.
Kelly notices.
"You already asked her, didn't you?" asked Kelly.
"Well…sort of…but I didn't promise anything," replied Brandon.
"Well, I'm glad someone was able to talk you into it," said Kelly.
"I wouldn't say it like that…I just thought it'll be nice to have her there," said Brandon.
"I think so too….I'm glad she's coming," said Kelly.
As Kelly focuses on the road, Kelly's smile turns into a worried look. She briefly turns and looks at Brandon before refocusing back on the road.
Kelly opens the door to her place. She sees Silver and Sammy watching TV.
"Hello," said Kelly carrying Winnie in.
"Hello," said Silver.
"Hi mom," said Sammy.
"Are we done with our homework already?" asked Kelly who puts Winnie's bassinet on the floor and take off her shoes.
"I don't have any. We had a substitute today and we watched a movie," said Sammy.
"Good for you. How about you, Silver?" asked Kelly.
"Yeah, the same. No homework," replied Silver still focusing on the TV and not looking at Kelly.
"You sure, Silver?" asked Kelly.
"Yeah, why?" asked Silver.
"Because I spoke with Ryan today…and he mentioned a big test coming up," replied Kelly.
"Oooo….busted," laughed Sammy.
"Oh, be quiet you little kindergartener," said Silver.
"Hey, I'm in the 3rd grade," said Sammy defending himself.
"Silver," said Kelly.
"Fine. I'll go study for the test," said Silver.
"Thank you," said Kelly.
"You know it was a lot better when you weren't going to work every day," said Silver quietly to herself while walking towards her room.
"What was that?" asked Kelly.
"Nothing nothing," replied Silver.
"What are we going to do with her?" asked Sammy goofing around.
"I don't know. But I know what I'm going to do with you," replied Kelly.
"What's that?" asked Sammy.
"Since you don't have any homework, why don't you help me plan your dad's birthday party," replied Kelly.
"Oh ok. But is it going to be one of those grown up parties?' asked Sammy groaning.
"What do you mean by grown-up party?" asked Kelly.
"Where you guys talk about old people things?" asked Sammy.
"What kind of things?" asked Kelly.
"You know…."you remember that time when we go we hang out at school?" replied Sammy mocking someone in deep voice.
"Who said that?" asked Kelly.
"You, dad, and everyone," replied Sammy.
"That's not old people things. That's just us reminiscing about the past," said Kelly.
"What's reminiscing?" asked Sammy.
"It's kind of like taking a trip down memory lane. Bringing up old stories of times that made us laugh and feel good and what made us become friends in the first place," replied Kelly.
"Sounds boring to me," said Sammy.
"Oh ok…you might think differently when you're older," said Kelly.
"Yeah, like much much older," said Sammy.
"Ok ok….well, what do you want to talk about?" asked Kelly.
"Less talk, more play," replied Sammy.
"Play? What do you want to play? Your video games?" asked Kelly.
"Yes, but I didn't think you'll go for that," replied Sammy.
"You are right. But I think we can ask your dad on what games and activities he wants since this is for his birthday," said Kelly.
"Where's the party going to be?" asked Sammy.
"It'll be at dad's new apartment," replied Kelly.
"Are you going to be there?" asked Sammy.
"Yes, I am. Why do you ask?" asked Kelly.
"Oh, because you and dad haven't been getting along lately; so, I was just wondering," replied Sammy.
Kelly goes and hugs Sammy.
"Yes, I'll be there. I know that your dad and I have had our issues. But we're working things out. We're still good friends. I wouldn't miss his birthday…so don't you worry; I'll be there…and so will everyone else too," said Kelly.
"Good. I'm glad you and dad are getting along," said Sammy.
"Me too," said Kelly.
"Are you two getting back together," said Sammy.
"I'm not sure, Sammy," said Kelly feeling sad.
"Why not? You said you two are getting along better now," asked Sammy.
"Yeah, but being in a relationship requires more than just getting along. It's complicated, ok; Sammy?" asked Kelly.
"Ok. I guess I wouldn't understand since I'm not a grownup," replied Sammy.
"Now, I'm not saying that, Sammy. You are very mature for your age and I'm glad you are answering these questions. I'm sorry that I'm not telling you what you want to hear. Your dad and I don't want to be together just to be together. We need to want to be together and that requires a bigger commitment and understanding," said Kelly.
"Do you want that to happen?" asked Sammy.
"If it'll make both of us happy, then yes. I just want the both of us to be happy – this way, we can be better people to everyone else around us. I mean, I'm sure you don't want us to be together if we're not happy with one another, right?" asked Kelly.
"I guess not," replied Sammy.
"Sammy, whatever happens between your dad and me, we're still a family and we're still going to be a family. We'll be a part of each other's lives….that'll never change," said Kelly.
"Ok. Thanks mom," said Sammy.
"Thank you, Sammy…and I'm sorry about this," said Kelly.
"It's ok," smiled Sammy.
Kelly hugs Sammy.
Later we see Kelly going to her room and checking on Winnie. She sees Silver there.
"Oh hey," said Kelly.
"Hey Kel. Just checking in on the little tyke," said Silver.
"Thanks," said Kelly.
"I heard what you said to Sammy," said Silver.
"Oh," said Kelly surprised.
"Very nice explaining everything to Sammy," said Silver.
"Thanks…I guess," said Kelly giving Silver an odd look.
"Now if only you can tell that to yourself," said Silver.
"What's that supposed to mean?" asked Kelly sounding offended.
"You know deep down, you want to be with Brandon," replied Silver.
"I never said I didn't," said Kelly taking a stand.
"Yeah but you can't be too happy that Brandon is spending time with Tina," said Silver.
"What does Tina have to do with me?" asked Kelly.
"You're right. She doesn't have anything to do with you. But you sure wish she does have something to do with you because you need that attention from Brandon," replied Silver.
"Huh?" asked Kelly confused.
"When Brandon was acting all brokenhearted, you didn't care because you knew you were the only woman that he'll ever be in loved with. So, you strung him along and as long as he wasn't seeing anyone else, you're ok. But that can change with Tina," replied Silver.
"So, what if it does change? He deserves to be happy…it doesn't need to be me always being the one who takes care of him. Tina can be by his side. I'm fine with it," said Kelly.
"You honestly believe that?" asked Silver.
"Yes…., I do," replied Kelly answering slowly.
"Good, then you shouldn't have anything to worry about, right?" asked Silver.
"Right. We all deserve to be happy. And if Brandon and Tina hit it off, then great...besides, they're not even dating. They're just friends," replied Kelly.
"Is that what you and Ryan are? Just friends too?" asked Silver.
"Yes, we're just friends," replied Kelly.
"Have you told Brandon that you having lunch with Ryan?" asked Silver.
"Why? He knows that I stopped by at work. He would assume that I ran into some coworkers and Ryan is my coworker," replied Kelly.
"Good. I don't think you should tell Brandon about having lunch with Ryan," said Silver.
"Wow, I thought you were going to tell me to confess to Brandon," said Kelly.
"Normally, I would. But, knowing how Brandon can lose his mind over this, it may be better not to say anything," said Silver.
"Thanks. I agree," said Kelly.
"Besides…he's bringing Tina to the party," added Kelly.
"Oh, so this is serious," said Silver with a surprised look.
"I'm not sure," said Kelly.
"Think about it….who do you think convinced him to move downstairs?" asked Silver.
"I don't know…so what?" asked Kelly.
"So, he wouldn't listened to you after you told him that's for his own good…but after maybe talking with Tina, he suddenly changes his mind and decides to move downstairs?" asked Silver.
"You don't know that they talked about that. Besides, I'm glad Brandon moved downstairs; it is for his own good," replied Kelly.
"I'm just saying that Tina was probably the one who talked him into it. Maybe he wanted to show off his new place to her," said Silver.
"Silver, stop with all the assumptions and gossip," said Kelly.
"Ok, but you know that there's a chance that I'm right about this," said Silver.
"Yes, you may be right…but all I care about is Brandon's well-being. I want him to be happy and well; so
that we can both move on from this," said Kelly.
"You also want him to move on from you?" asked Silver.
"I don't know," replied Kelly.
"That's probably one of the most honest things you can say, Kel. You really don't know," said Silver.
"Why are you insulting me?" asked Kelly.
"I'm not trying to. I'm just trying to point out the truth here," replied Silver.
"And that is?" asked Kelly.
"That you're scared that Brandon likes Tina more than he likes you and that he's going to move on from you," replied Silver.
"Ok, I'm scared. But if it's bound to happen, I'll make the most of it," said Kelly.
"Why don't you just tell Brandon that you want to be with him?" asked Silver.
"Because I'm not sure if I want to. I don't want to jump to conclusions just because Brandon made a new friend," replied Kelly.
"Ok. I hope you two will be happy with whatever outcome," said Silver.
"Me too. Whatever happens, we'll just have to accept it and move on," said Kelly.
"Ok," said Silver.
"So, what did you get him?" asked Silver.
"Who? Brandon?" asked Kelly.
"Yeah...for this birthday," replied Silver.
"I haven't decided yet," said Kelly.
"You haven't even started thought about it, haven't you?" asked Silver.
"Of course, I have. I have a few things in mind. I'm just deciding on which one he's going to like best," replied Kelly.
"It's ok, Kel. If you can't get one, I can add your name onto my gift," said Silver.
"What did you get him?" asked Kelly.
"I got him a shirt," replied Silver.
"Ok...thanks but I don't think a shirt is good enough for a gift coming from two people," said Kelly.
"Hey, don't go knocking my gift. I put a lot of thought into it," said Silver.
"Good for you," said Kelly.
"Plus, it was on sale at the Gap. They still have some if you want to go get him one yourself," said Silver.
"Thanks for the suggestion, but I think I'll be fine," said Kelly.
"Ok...suit yourself...just make sure Brandon likes your gift more than he likes Tina's gift," said Silver looking down as she said it.
Silver then briefly turns and looks at Kelly. Kelly gives Silver a displeased look.
"What does that supposed to mean?" asked Kelly.
"Tina's a friend. You're is wife. It's not going to look too good if her gift is better than yours," replied Silver.
"I don't care; besides, we're separated. It'll be a surprise if I get him anything at all," said Kelly.
"Doesn't matter...if your gift is better than hers, then it's no big deal because everyone expects it. But if Tina's gift is better than yours, then it is a big deal," said Silver.
"Plus, everyone's going to see his reaction," added Silver.
"Not if I give it to him in private," said Kelly smiling.
"Sure, you can do that but everyone's gonna know what it is," said Silver.
"Know what is?" asked Kelly.
"C'mon," replied Silver.
"C'mon what, Silver?" asked Kelly.
"Do I gotta spell it out for ya? Everyone's gonna think that you are going to offer your you know to him and that's it," replied Silver.
"You mean, sex?" asked Kelly.
"Yes," replied Silver.
"Silver, you're sick; you know that?" asked Kelly.
"So, that's not your gift to him?" asked Silver.
"No," replied Kelly.
"Oh ok; then you'll be fine, I guess," said Silver.
"Yeah, I'll be fine," said Kelly.
"Alright, Kel. Good for you,' said Silver.
"Thanks for coming here and checking on Winnie…I gotta go make dinner," said Kelly changing the subject and giving Silver a quick hug.
Kelly starts to walk towards the door.
"You want me to try to dig up some dirt on Tina online?" asked Silver.
"No," replied Kelly on the other side of the door.
Kelly and Winnie are at the Peach Pit. She's sitting at one of the booths.
Kelly is just staring at the distance.
Nat notices and walks over.
"You two are doing ok? asked Nat.
Kelly doesn't respond.
"Kel?" asked Nat trying to get Kelly's attention.
Kelly quickly moves her head and notices Nat.
"Hey Nat...sorry, I didn't notice you were there," said Kelly.
"Are you ok?" asked Nat.
"Yeah, sorry, I just thinking and I sort of zoned out," replied Kelly.
"Oh ok. Glad to have you back," smiled Nat.
Kelly smiles back at Nat.
"I will be there for Brandon's party. But sadly, Joan and Frankie can't make it. They'll be visiting the Joan's parents in Kansas," said Nat.
"Oh ok. Why aren't you going with them?" asked Kelly.
"I would go but I'll have to close this down; we're really short staff right now...plus we're a bit short right now; so, I think it's best that I stay behind and try to make some money," replied Nat.
"Oh, sorry to hear that. I didn't know that you guys are having financial trouble," said Kelly feeling bad.
"I try not to say anything," said Nat.
"Do you need any money? I mean, I can ask Brandon if we can help out," said Kelly.
"No no no; it's ok. We appreciate but we can't take your money," said Nat.
"You sure?" asked Kelly.
"Yeah, I'm sure. Thanks anyway," replied Nat.
"If you change your mind, you know who to ask," said Kelly.
"Thanks Kel. You and Brandon have always been there for me and my family. We couldn't ask for anything more," said Nat.
"Oh, we love you, Nat," said Kelly.
Kelly stands up and leans in to hug Nat.
"I love you kids too," said Nat.
They break the hug.
"And here I think my problem was big when other people are dealing with much bigger problems," said Kelly sitting down.
"Ok, I'm intrigued. What's your problem?" asked Nat taking a seat.
"Oh, it's not a big deal. I was just trying to think what I'm going to get Brandon for his birthday," replied Kelly.
"Oh, well that's easy," said Nat.
"It is?" asked Kelly.
"Yeah, I think you can't go wrong with whatever you give him," said Nat.
"It's a lot more difficult than it sounds," said Kelly.
"I know we're separated and all...but I still care about him. I don't want to get him anything too extravagant that'll make him think that I care too much or too cheap that people will think that I don't care at all," added Kelly.
"I get it," said Nat.
"So, any ideas on what I should get him?" asked Kelly.
"If you have to ask, then I'd have to say that he wants you back," replied Nat.
Kelly gives Nat a weak smile.
"But of course, that's just my own opinion and that might go against your idea of giving him something that shows that you care too much," said Nat.
"In all seriousness, I think you just being there for him every day is the best gift you can give him. He's very lucky to have you in his life," added Nat.
"Thanks Nat," said Kelly smiling.
To be Continued
