Les choix

by noemie dubois

Voici une belle histoire d'amour et rencontre entre fran et max ! Bonne lecture

Choices

L'author this story is Vanessa

Nothing would ever be the same again, of this he was certain, his life was meaningless and empty, it was over. Living without her was something he never even considered after they met and fell in love. His life had never been easy, despite always having everything money could buy, and it seemed the things he wanted never came effortless. He remembered the hell he went through when he told his parents he was coming to New York to pursue a career as a Broadway Producer. They did everything from yelling, to finally deciding to cut him off if he persisted. But that didn't stop him no, Maxwell Sheffield didn't need his parents to succeed, he would make it on his own, and though at times it was certainly difficult, he had managed to make a name for himself and established a flawless reputation in the Broadway community. Yes, his career had taken off, but love was another issue. Maxwell must have had countless shameless commons from women dying to trade up, or get their name in the paper as Maxwell Sheffield's new fling. But love never seemed to come along, that is until he met her, his darling Sarah, and then everything just fell into place. Their courtship was short, they didn't seem to need much time to know they where made for each other. The weddingwasa mere three months after they met, and they started a family immediately afterwards. Sarah was such a perfect mother to his wonderful children. Hell, she was a perfect everything wife, lover, friend, the list was never ending. He thought how quickly everything had changed for him, he went from being on top of the world and having everything he could ever want, to being in the sad, sorry, and living measly existence he was now in. He looked at the reflection in the mirror in front of him and didn't recognize what he saw. The Maxwell Sheffield staring back at him was barely a shadow of the man he used to be. The truth was he didn't care, he just knew he hated the immense feeling of impotence he got every timehe thought about how he couldn't do anything to get her back… to get his life back.

He had been locked in his room for days, not coming out for any circumstances, and it was truly beginning to worry everyone. His business partner, CC Babcock, had attempted several times to get him to come out, stating that they had tons of backed up work and the consequences for neglecting them would be catastrophic. That had no effect on Maxwell whatsoever the last thing he cared about was how to make money or his career. The only thing that occasionally made him contemplate the idea of leaving his room was his kids. He realized the pain they must have been feeling, and how much they probably needed him. The problem was he didn't even know how to console himself,therefore,how could he everbegin to do it for them. So he wouldn't even attempt to, every time Niles (his butler and friend of many years) had tried to get him out, begging him to spend some time with the children, he would lash out at him and demand to be left alone. Niles was becoming more and more concerned by the minute at Maxwell's demeanor, not only had he neglected everything from his children to his career, but he had been drinking to a dangerous point just about every night sinceSarahad passed away. Niles knew that if he didn't think of some way to snap him out of it, Maxwell Sheffield would self destruct in no time. The problem was Niles had no idea how to accomplish it.

Fran Fine sat on the couch at her mother's house engrossed in the latest issue of PeopleMagazine. She always loved reading about celebrities and their glamorous lives. The part that fascinated her most was always the fashion, oh how she would love to be part of the fashion industry. She was always characterized as having a keen eye for fashion. Though her clothes were a bit cutting edge and definitely bold, she knew if she ever had the opportunity she could show the world she could be far better than these cookie cutter designers who all seemed to copy each other's styles over and over. But, who was she kidding, it was just a fantasy, how would she ever cut it big living in Queens.

"Wow, now that's the kind of man I want for you, Frannie, gorgeous, rich, and famous," Sylvia pointed to the magazine as Fran turned the page.

Fran rolled her eyes at her mother's usual pushy comments, "Ma, would you cut that out you know I love Fred and I don't need anyone else, especially not a guy like this who is way out of my league by the way." "Frannie don't cut yourself short you can have any man you want, you just have to be smart about it," Sylvia responded trying to convince her daughter for the millionth time. She didn't know why she never liked this Fred guy Fran had been with for so long, but she just knew he would make Fran suffer.

"Ma, I'm not cutting myself short, are you forgetting Fred just finished college and is about to make it huge in the advertisement industry," Fran just didn't understand her mother's attitude towards Fred, they had been together since before high school and he had never hurt her. Besides he was a man with a vision, a goal in life, and was certainly working hard to achieve it. Fran would have thought her mother would love it that she was with the only man in Flushing who's main career goal was not sitting in front of the tube for hours.

"Darling, I know he's a good boy but I just don't think he's for you, it just seems he is going in a different direction and you are just too attached. I guess I'm afraid that he will hurt you sweetheart," Sylvia was still eyeing the magazine and the article she had pointed out to Fran.

"Ma, I know you have good intentions but will you just trust me, you'll see soon me and Fred will be married and you'll have those grandchildren you'vealways wanted," Fran knew she hit a good nerve with that last statement, she knew her mother very well.

"Grandchildren?" Sylvia's eyes lit up every time this topic was brought up, it was her biggest dream to have grandchildren from both her daughters. Now that her eldest Nadine had two kids, it was up to Fran to make sure she died a happy woman.

"Yeah, ma, you'll see how beautiful they will be, and you'll forget all about that nonsense you are always saying about Fred." Fran clung to her mother for a warm hug.

"Well, sweetheart, I sure hope you're right about him, I still don't know, we mothers can sense these things you know," Sylvia answered before getting back to the article.

"Meanwhile, it says here this guy is a big time producer and has just widowed recently, making him one of the most eligible bachelors in New York." Sylvia looked up in time to see Fran give her a look of disgust.

"Oh, ma, I can't believe you are trying to sell this guy to me, even if I were to break up with Fred what would I ever do with a guy like that, we are totally different, I would never fit into that world," Fran said finally snatching the magazine back from her mother. Before turning the page she caught his eyes and had to admit the guy was gorgeous and she could easily get lost in that head of hair. She chuckled to herself and turned the page getting back to the do's and don'ts section, her favorite, although only the hippestandtrendiest people end up on the don't list, she thought to herself.

"Fred, old boy, come in, I'm glad you could come back to the office so quickly, there is an urgent favor I need to ask of you," the elderly man patted Fred on the back while he took his seat.

"Of course, Mr. Myers, no problem, anything you need I'm at your service." Fred smiled brightly at his boss. The truth was he couldn't stand the man, he was a pretentious old womanizing geezer, but he was also his ticket out of Flushing, and he would do anything he had to do to make it big.

"I know, I know, son and that's why I would not ask anyone else to do what I'm about to ask you, I think you definitely have potential and can go far if you just stick with me," old man Myers knew he could get this kid to agree to do just about anything for him.

"So,sir, what is it you need?" Fred was now becoming restless and wondered what this was all about.

"Well, you see,son, it's about tomorrow's gala affair, I was wondering, you don't have a date do you?"

"Actually,sir, I…," Fred began, "I didn't think so, you see my daughter is flying in from Europe tonight and wants to attend the event and, of course, she can't, verywell,show up alone. What better person to escort her than my very own right arm." Myers was now giving Fred a commanding look that could be interpreted as the look you get when given an order not a request.

"Well, sir, I would love to…" Fred thought for a second before he finished, did the guy just call me his right arm? "What time should Icomeby your house to pick her up, sir?" He completed his questionwithout even thinking about what he had just gotten himself into.

"I knew you would agree, my boy, you are a smart man, and a lucky one at that my daughter is quite a looker." The old man said glowing with pride at the thought of his little girl.

"I'msureshe is, sir," Fred said getting up to shake his boss's hand gesturing to leave.

"Listen, son don't worry about coming out a limo will pick you up at your house and you can meet my daughter at the entrance of the event, how's that sound?" Myers took Fred's hand shaking it firmly.

"Sounds great, I'll see you tomorrow then, goodnight Mr. Myers," Fred bid farewell and headed towards the door.

"Oh, and son, I can already tell where you're going in the company if all goes as planned," he said giving him a sharp wink, which Fred responded to with a soft grin before exiting the office.

The way to Fran's seemed eternal to Fred, he had no idea how he was going to tell her she wouldn'tbeaccompanying him to the party they had been talking about for weeks.What'sworse, she couldn't come because he had to take another woman. He sighed loudly, letting out all his frustration. Maybe he was making too much of this, Fran would understand it was just a business party and he didn't even have to tell her about Myers' daughter. He was just her escort, doing his boss a favor so he could stay in his good grace. The cab pulled up to Fran's building and he headed up knowing thiswas going tobe pure be hell.

"Honey, why are you so late I was getting worried?" Fran greeted him as she opened the door.

"I'm sorry, sweetie, it's just I had to go back to the office after I had left, it's a long story, I'm just glad I'm here with you now." He took her in his arms for a warm kiss. He loved her so much and though sometimes he got lost in his work, he didn't want to lose her.

"You and me both baby," Fran responded matching his kiss eagerly.

"So what are you up to, honey, are you alone?" Fred asked surprised Sylvia hadn't alreadyinterruptedthem. He always sensed she didn't really like himverymuch.

"Yeah, my parents are at the movies," she said while seductively running her finger up and down his chest.

Fred had to fight the urge to take her at that very moment, because she could turn him on with just one look from those beautiful brown eyes. However, he knew he had to tell her about the party.

"Fran, I need to talk to you about tomorrow night," before she could finish she planted a sweet and lingering kiss on his lips, making him almost lose his balance.

"Yeah, me too honey, I am so excited, how about we go in my room and I can model what I picked out for the party." She said pulling him towards her bedroom. She felt so comfortable with him, they had shared everything together, he had been her first everything. As a matter of fact, Fran had never been with anyone else,there was no one else for him to be compared to Fred had been everything in her life.

"Honey, I would love to but come, I need to talk to you about tomorrow night. I know I said we would go together, but actually tonight when I went back to the office my boss informed me that I shouldn't bring anyone, because he's placing me on an assignment so I'll be technically working the whole night." Fred saw Fran's expression change almost instantly.

"But, Fred, I've been waiting for this for weeks and I even bought a really expensive dress just to fit in with your office buddies, now you're saying I can't go?" Fran started to tear up she didn't know why she had a bad feeling about this.

"Sweetie, it's just a business dinner I won't be able to give you the attention you need and deserve, you understand don't you?" He saw no change in her demeanor.

"I guess I understand as usual work, work, work." Fran got up and headed towards the bathroom to get some tissues she could feel the tears coming soon.

"Fran,baby,I promise I'll make it up to you, how about the next night we go out for a special night out on the town, huh, we could use the company yacht again and have a romantic dinner, just like the last time remember?" He nuzzled the back of her neck and finally saw her smile slightly.

"Yeah I do….well, I guess you're rightit isjust a stuffy old dinner anyway, but you promise the next night is all mine?" she said turning to him.

"I promise I'll make the arrangements tonight ok?" He saw her smile brightly and knew he had convinced her.

"Ok you better not break my heart mista," she said with a playful tap to his chest.

He looked at her seriously "Fran,I promise you I'll never break your heart sweetie." With that he began to kiss her passionately, until they were both startled by the sound of the door opening.

"Fran,we'rehome early, where are you?" Fran heard her mother's voice and wished she had her own place, this was getting ridiculous.

"Oh hello thereFred,I see you like to come visit when we are not home," Sylvia said giving Fred one of her looks.

"Hello Mrs. Fine, no, not at all, I had no idea you weren't at home, please forgive me," he said attempting to get on her good side.

"Yeah, yeah, anyway, Frannie, get your father a beer he is going to watch the game, in the room, I'll be in the kitchen, nice seeing you Fred, excuse me." Sylvia said before leaving them aloneagain.

"Fran,I don't know why your parents hate me so much, your mother bites my head off every chance she gets and your dad has barely said two words to me in ten years." Fred said heading towards the door to leave.

"Aww honey don't worry about them ma is just untrusting andmy father has barelyspoken two words to me inall my life." She said with a slight giggle.

"I suppose, anyway, sweetie I have to go I'll call you tomorrow ok, I have a lot of work to catch up on, muah I love you," he said giving her a peck on the lips.

"Oh ok honey, if you have to go, I'll talk to you tomorrow I love you too." She kissed him again before he was gone.

The whole morning Fran had been uneasy, waiting for Fred to call but nothing.It wasn't like him to not call at least once. She panicked for a minute thinking something may have happened to him. Fran had a knot in her stomach as she phoned his office to see if he had made it to work.

"Hello there, Joyce, is Fred in yet?" Fran twirled the phone wire nervously.

"Um, yes, Fran, he is but he's in a meeting and will be all morning" Fred's secretary answered.

"Well, thank you, I guess he'll call when he gets a little free time, thank you Joyce." Fran just couldn't explain the sinking feeling she had, it wasn't such a big deal if he hadn't called, he was busy, and she knew he would call when he got the chance, but all and all something just didn't feel right.

"Frannie, what's wrong darling?" Sylvia noticed her daughter's expression and knew it was probably related to that Fred guy.

"Oh, nothing ma, its just Fred I was worried this morning because he didn't check in like he usually does, but everythingis ok his secretary says he's just in a long meeting, he'll call me when he gets out." Fran tried to hide her anxiety she really didn't want her mother to start on her Fred bashing.

"Darling, I'm telling you to open youreyes this kid is no good for you, sure he's handsome and is headed towards success, but you know what I'm seeing?" She stopped and looked at Fran straight in the eyes before finishing her statement. "Darling, there is no room for you in his world anymore, he is slowly pushing you out of it" Fran looked away not wanting her mother see how much that thought hurt her.

"Ma,you're such a drama queen, just because he's busy one morning, he's taking me out of his life, please!" Sylvia walked over to where she could look at Fran's face again.

"Fran, it's not just this morning and you know it, he's always too busy to call lately or can't take you out as often because of business dinners or whatever, the last straw was this party you were so excited about that now I hear you're not invited to anymore. I'm telling you, Frannie, just be careful he may be a good guy but maybe you two are just not the same people you were when you started dating."

"Ma, stop nagging me I'm sick and tired of this day in and day out, Fred is the same guy, he is still as into to me as he was ten years ago. Just because he works too hard I shouldn't doubt that. For your information, he works so that we can have a future together, why do you think he doesn't even want me to work, he says he's all I need and he will always take care of me." Fran looked away she was furious, but at herself because as she tried to convince her mother all these things were true, she was trying to convince herself as well. The truth was she had noticed a difference too, and it was killing her. She had given him so many things, they had shared so much, she had even agreed to stop working and going to school for him, because of his stupid stone age belief that a woman's place is at home with the kids. She had changed herself and compromised too much to lose him now, and she just wouldn't accept it.

"Ok, Fran, if you want to keep kidding yourself ignore me but I just hope for your sake that I'm wrong." She kissed Fran tenderly before going into the kitchen.

"So, daddy, where is this guy I'm going to the banquet with, you know I have to meet him first, I have very high standards for these things," Catherine whined to her father.

"Patience, sweetie, he's been in meetings all morning but he will be here to meet us for lunch any minute now, ah, there he is now." Old man Myers directed his daughter's attention to the tall blonde young man approaching them.

Catherine's eyes lit up as she thought how extremely handsome he was. She had always been somewhat of a philanderer with men especially the ones her father set her up with. She knew they were after her for money. Not taking away from her attributes, but it did help that she was the daughter of one of the richest men in the country. She got a sudden jolt of electricity as he came closer. She knew she would have fun with this one.

"Hello there, my boy I would like you to meet my daughter, Catherine Myers, well go ahead don't be shy, she hates that," he added with a haughty laugh.

"Fred Turner a pleasure to meet you Miss Myers," he said taking her hand, and planting a gentle kiss on it. Their eyes met for a moment, and Fred saw the same frivolous look he usually saw from those women. Sure, she was beautiful, her piercing blue eyes and golden hair, accessorized with that soft lean body, would drive any man crazy. But he was around these women too much and knew perfectly well what they were all about. No,he preferred another type woman, the down to earth type that would stay home and watch the kids, ready to greet him lovingly when he got home from work. He could only see one person in that spot. He smiled to himself suddenly remembering what a great girl he had, then it hit him he hadn't called her all day. He would have to remember to touch base with her as soon as possible.

"The pleasure is all mine, Fred, and please call me Catherine, that Miss Myers stuff makes me feel old," she said smiling back seductively.

"Ok, Catherine, shall we go, I'm sure you must be hungry by now, I took a while longer to get out of the meeting than I planned, I apologize for making you and your father wait."

"No worries, my boy, duty calls, the more you work the better for me right?" Old man Myers said giving Fred a tap on the back.

"Quite right,sir, well shall we then," Fred gestured for his boss and daughter to go ahead of him. But, instead, Catherine gripped his arm as she exited with him.

The motion slightly startled Fred at first, he knew now she was going to be trouble he just hoped he would be able to escape her advances without upsetting her or the boss, more importantly.

"So, Catherine, how was Europe?" Fred tried to start a conversation mainly to interrupt the unrelenting stare she had been giving him since they had sat down to lunch.

"Well, you know, Europe is great but there is nothing like the BigApple, it just has more interesting sites, foods,people," she emphasized that last part with a wink,whichmade Fred more than a little uncomfortable.

"Really, well, I would definitely would like to visit Europe one day, God and the boss permit it" Fred chuckled trying to lighten up the tension a bit.

"Of course, son, I told you stick with me and I'll take you places," Old man Myers responded.

Just then Fred looked down, his cell phone had been vibrating for quite sometime,andhecouldnolongerignoreit.

"Will you excuse me please I really have to take this call," Fred asked before backing away from his chair and the table.

He could see Catherine frown through the corner of his eye, and decided he had better make this quick.

"Hello, yes hey sweetheart, I'm sorry I can't really talk right now, I promise as soon as I'm done with work I'll stop by, yes, before I head for the party, ok I love you too." He hung up and, immediately, met the stares of his boss and his boss's daughter.

"Sorry about that it was my... mother she always worries when I don't check in," He didn't know why he had lied, but when he saw the smile return to Catherine's face he knew he had done the right thing.

"Oh, how sweet, I'll have to meet your mom some day. Well, I guess we'll leave that for when we know each other better," she said placing her hand on his.

With a nervous cough he just nodded and complied, he could do nothing else seeing the large look of satisfaction his boss had on his face.

"Well, we should get back to work now, son, time is money, huh. Sorry to cut in on your fun sweetheart, but you'll have him all to yourself again tonight I promise." Myers said getting up after paying the check.

"Oh, I guess if you have to go back, but I will be looking forward to tonight, I can't wait," Catherine said before planting a lingering kiss on Fred's cheek that he could've sworn was a bit too close to his lips.

"Yes, of course, Catherine, see you then," Fred thought he couldn't get out of there soon enough.

On their way back to the office he barely heard a word his boss said he just thought about the obvious way in which Catherine was throwing herself at him, and how his boss seemed to be more than pleased with it. This could only mean trouble, he had always complied and even gone the extra mile to please his boss, but now this was too much. How could he have even considered going along with all this. Fran meant everything to him and he didn't know what he'd ever do without her. Oh,if only he had the money and status he always dreamed of, then he and Fran could leave that horrible neighborhood and she would live like the queen she was and deserved to be, thenhe wouldn't have to put up with this babbling old fool. He looked over at his boss and realized that without this old fool,he would never get the success he craved.

The rest of the day flew by and he left for home so preoccupied with the party and Catherine, he completely forgot about Fran and his promise to see her before he left for the gala. Before he knew it, he was at the door of the event and Catherine was there eagerly awaiting his arrival. They danced, mingled, the night was going smoothly.

Meanwhile, Fran was inconsolable, she didn't understand why he was acting this way it was very unlike him. Could he be changing his mind about us? For the first time she felt her mother was right, she had no place in his life, those fancy schmancy, people were his life now and there was nothing she could do to get him back. Fran must have cried for hours before sleep found her exhausted body.

"Well, I had a great time, Catherine, thanks for everything, this is where I get off," he reached for the door as the limo pulled around to his building,

"What's your rush, don't you want to go somewhere else the night is still young," she said taking his hand away from the handle.

"I would love to, Catherine, but I havetowork in the morning and..."he felt her shush him with her finger.

"Please, you can call off daddy won't care, you're with me. Fred, I'm going to be honest with you, I like you a lot, actually more than I have liked anyone in a while and, I have to tell you, there is nothing I want that I don't get." She closed in on him until they were so close he could taste her breath.

"Catherine I don't think this is a good a idea I mean I… what I mean is you aremy boss's daughter, how would it look if we had a fling." He had become aroused by her proximity and knew he had to leave soon.

"Who said anything about a fling, my dad likes you, Fred, he told me today, he says he would love it if you and I started something, and so would I. Come on,Fred, I can tell you don't like living in a place like this, you are better than this. This will be good fortheboth of us." She took his lips before he could answer and they were so lost in each other that they didn't even notice the limo had stopped.

She pulled back enough so that she could speak. "Lets go back to my place, Fred," he thought about what this would mean, although he knew it was wrong, he heard himself agree and her ask the limo driver to go back to her place.It was all downhill from there.

That night seemed to mark the beginning of the end for the Fran and Fred that once was. Not only had he cancelled the evening they had planned the night after the party, but he had started to call and go by less and less. Fran thought about how it was always either work or a work-related affair. She was beginning to let herself go and took little to no interest in anything. It was obvious she had lost the love of her life to his job, and it was threatening to kill her. So after weeks of agonizing and thinking she decided the best thing was to just let him go.

"Fran, is everything ok you haven't spoken a word since we got to the restaurant, I thought you would like this place it's one of the most exclusive in the city." Fred saw her somber expression and felt horrible, no matter what had been going on he did love her.

"It's great, I guess, you know I'm not the fancy restaurant type, but I can see you are now. Fred, we have to talk."

"What is it honey you're scaring me," Fred could see where this was heading and although he expected it, now that it came he couldn't take it.

"I've been thinking and I don't think we should be together anymore, you just don't seem to have any time for me and, frankly, I don't know if I can keep up with the kind of life you seem to be heading towards." As she spoke the tears began to well up and threatened to fall any moment.

"What! No, Frannie, please don't say that; I love you and can't live without you, I know I haven't been around lately but I promise that will change." He searched his thoughts desperately, trying to find some way to convince her to stay. "I know things will change, in fact, if you became my wife there is no way I couldn't see you."

Fran almost did a double take at what he had just said. "What did you say? Did you just propose, Fred?"

He took her hand and kissed it, "Yes, baby, I did please marry me, I need you in my life, and when you said you would leave me, it made me realize what a fool I was being these past few months."

Fran was tear stricken she couldn't believe what she had been hoping for was finally happening. What she couldn't explain was the fact that it felt nothing like she thought it would. Maybe the fact that the man proposing was not the same manshe had been with for so long.

"Fred, I don't want you to do this just because you don't want me to leave you, it should be because you really mean it, I don't know…"

"Frannie, forget that, what does it matter how it happens as long as we are together as husband and wife, please, Frannie, say you'll marry me and by tomorrow you'll have the most beautiful engagement and wedding ring on that finger." Fred was desperate to stop her as much as he wanted to be rich and successful he couldn't let Fran go either.

"What do you mean tomorrow I'll have a wedding ring Fred, you talk like you want the wedding to be tomorrow?" Fran couldn't believe this, it wasn't at all how she thought his reaction would be.

"Yeah, baby, I can ask for some time off tonight, tomorrow we'll head for City Hall,and by this time tomorrow night you will be Mrs. Turner." Fred's heart almost leaped out as he saw her flash the brightest smile.

"Oh, yes, Fred, I'll marry you, I still think this is all crazy, but I can't help it I love you so much." Fran felt all her fears and anxieties leave her, he still loved her and soon she would be his wife.

"Thank you, sweetheart, thank you, I love you too and, from now on, its only happiness for both of us you'll see."

"I hope so, Fred." Fran couldn't help but be a little apprehensive at the rash decision she had just made.

"You'll see, honey, you won't regret this." Fred took her in his arms one last time before paying the bill so they could head out.

As they pulled up to Fran's building, Fred took her hand and kissed it gently.

"Well, goodnight, sweetheart, I have a lot of things to do and get together before the big day tomorrow, and I'm sure you have a few things to do yourself." He closed in on her with a sweet kiss, which he noticed she didn't return.

"Honey,is everything ok?" he asked.

"Yeah, I'm fine, it just hit me what we are going to do and, well, I guess it's just all so surreal," Fran just couldn't shake the gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach.

"Sweetie, you're just nervous, I promise when you are in my arms tomorrow, as my wife, all that will disappear. All you have to do is get yourself ready, meet me atCity Hall at 4:00, and I will have everything ready by then, ok?" she smiled weakly and agreed before bidding him goodbye and heading upstairs.

Fred had a hard time concentrating on the drive home. He thought about how happy he felt when Fran agreed to marry him. He loved her so much and felt so right with her. But, at the same time, he knew he was in for a heap of trouble. Things between him and Catherine had really escalated since that night they spent together. He told himself that night, it was just one night,a moment of passion that he couldn't control. He was a man after all. But, then she seemed to get more and more attached and went to great lengths to get and retain his interest. She knew his ambitions and weaknesses as well. Though he tried to fight it, he couldn't help it, the truth was Catherine lived the life he wanted for himself. The parties, the fancy restaurants, cars, yachts,mansions, all of these things were just too much for him to resist. All the things Catherine seemed to be willing to share in exchange for his company. He stopped at a red light and looked around at the neighborhood he had grown up in and how it had never changed,thepiles of garbage and wandering bums on every other corner. He winced at how much it all repulsed him. He was just no longer a part of this world.It was far too little for his big ambitions. Suddenly, he thought for the first time that maybe Fran wasn't the girl he needed.. Could it all have been a mistake? Althoughhe loved Fran,she was part of the life that he thought he couldn't get further away from.

He had stopped in front of his apartmentbuilding and his thoughts were interrupted by a soft tap on his window. He lowered it and soon was looking straight into Catherine's eyes.

"Catherine, what are you doing here?" he asked stepping out of the car.

"Well, Fred, I went looking for you at your office earlier to invite you out and was told you had gone out to dinner and, well, I thought I would stop by." she knew how pathetic it sounded and wasn't sure how to continue.

"Catherine, I'm glad you're here, but what is it you have to tell me that you felt you had to come by, and at this time of night?" he asked.

Catherine hesitated for a moment before she decided she had to go for it, it was now or never. "Fred, the truth is I came down here to tell you well… that I love you." Fred couldn't believe what he had just heard. He knew she was somewhat infatuated with him but love? He wasn't sure how to deal with this now.

"Catherine, I don't know what to say, but I think you're probably a little confused."

"No,Fred,I'm not the type to confuse my feelings, I know what I want, I told you when we first met. I must admit, at first I thought it was all physical but the more time we spent together, the more I realized I had fallen in love and that you have to be with me, no matter what I have to do to get you." She pushed up against him now, encouraging him to take her in his arms.

"Catherine, I know we have had fun lately but I don't know if…" she cut him off with an aggressive kiss.

"Baby, I want you with me, we can be great together, and you'll benefit from this, imagine how far you could get in life if you were mine. You have no idea the doors I can open for you. Don't think so much Fred, lets get out of this place," she said pulling him towards her limo.

"But where do you want to go,Catherine,it's late, and besides there is something I have to tell you." Again, she shushed him this time with her finger.

"Let's get out of here for good, you don't need to be in this dreadful place any longer, Fred, it makes no sense. I told you, you're too good for all this. Let's just go." She pulled him into the limo and, after hesitating, Fred felt himself pull the door of the limo shut and was off.

The morning woke Fran like an ice cold bucket of water being dumped on her. She hadn't slept a wink,and the last thing she wanted was the sun beaming down on her. Dazed,closing the drapes, she suddenly remembered what day it was and her mood instantly changed. Why was she in a bad mood, it was her wedding day! She got up and quickly showered before hurrying to the phone.

"Hello, Mrs. Torriello, good morning, may I speak to Val,please?" Fran was so excited she had somehow forgotten to call her best friend and confidant, Val, to tell her the news and ask her to join her.

"Hey, Fran, what are you doing up this early, it's not like you?" Val asked puzzled by the phone call.

"Val,you won't believe this but Fred asked me to marry him today and I said yes! Yeah,I know its crazy, but we love each other and we don't want to wait anymore. So, do you think you could come with me to shop for a dress, nothing big just appropriate, I have to meet him atCity Hall at 4:00and,you have to be there." Fran was becoming for apprehensive by the moment she couldn't wait to get all this over with and just be in Fred's arms.

"Sure,Fran, you know I'm always there for you, honey, but, wait,does yourmother know?" Val knows how she feels about Fred.

"No, Val, she doesn't. I figure I'll just tell her when it's all done with so she won't have a choice but to acceptit." Fran didn't even want to think how her parents would react.

"Ok, Val, if you think that's the best way then I guess I can't stop you, I'll see you soon, Frannie, let me get ready."

Val was over in no time and they spent the whole day shopping and getting ready for the big event. The day didn't seem to have enough hours.Fran felt she wouldn't be ready in time. She thought to call Fred, to see how he was coming along with everything but she had no time to stop. Before she knew it was 3:30, and she and Val were on their way toCity Hall.

"Oh, Val, I just hope we are happy together. You know, things haven't been too good lately he barely had time for me. I hope that will all change now that we're getting married." Fran said becoming more and more anxious.

"Don't worry, sweetie, you will be so happy you won't even have time for your old friends anymore." Fran saw the solemn look on her friend's face.

"Aww, sweetie, I'll always have time for you, I love you, you're like a sister to me," they shared a warm hug just as the cab pulled up to city hall.

"Well Fran this is it!" Val said with a loud screech. "Yeah,I know, it's so exciting, yet scary," Fran answered searching around for Fred.

"Val, where is he, I don't see him anywhere? I just realized that I didn't talk to him all day, maybe he had some trouble and is going to be late. Let me call him." Fran called and called butthere wasno answer on his phone. After about the tenth try she decided to call his office. "Yes, may I speak to Fred please?" she frowned at the response she got, he hadn't been there either. Fran was now becoming worried it wasn't like him to not pick up his house nor his cell phone. Something wasn't kosher.

"Val, I don't understand it, I can't find him anywhere and, it's past 4:30, I need to know what happened, Val, he could be hurt somewhere." Fran was slowly losing her composure and finally decided she couldn't just sit there and wait.

"Calm down, Frannie, I'm sure he's ok maybe something work-related came up," Val tried her hardest to console her friend, but it was clear she wasn't doing a good job at it.

"No, Val, I can't calm down I'm going down to his place maybe someone there knows. Would you stay here in case he shows up, please?" Val nodded as her friend hailed a taxi and was off.

It suddenly occurred to Val that maybe nothing had happened like Fran thought, but instead Fred decided to changed his mind. She, like Fran's mom, got a bad vibe from Fred, but she never told her friend in fear of Fran's reaction. With this in mind, Val headed inside the building.

"Excuse me, do you know where people go to get married?"An officer escorted her to the place she was searching for.

"Hi, Iwas just wondering, are there any marriages scheduled to take place today?"Val had a bad feeling about the answer she might get.

"Yes, we had one earlier today but that's done with, and it was the only one for today. Is everything ok Miss?" the lady at the desk asked a distant Val, who's heart and head were with her poor friend and the pain she was about to endure.

The cab pulled up to Fred's building and Fran instantly caught sight of his car parked in front. He did get home she thought. She paid the cabbie and headed to his apartment. After several knocks she knew he wasn't in there. Fran was now on the verge of madness. Why had he disappeared this way? The only explanation she could find was that he was hurt. Someone had mugged him or something, right when he got out of his car last night. She winced at the thought, this couldn't be happening not today. After two hours of sitting on his door step, in hopes he would show up, she decided all she could do was go home and wait.

When she finally got home, Val was there with open arms, she cried until sleep overcame her limp body. Luckily, her parents were out of town for a few days and she didn't have to explain why she was so distraught. The days passed by and still no word from Fred. Fran had gone from every different type of state possible. She would become extremely worried to livid, then to the lowest form of depression. Afterawhile,she started to lose all hope of ever seeing him again. It was like the earth had swallowed him whole. His office had no idea of his whereabouts, and he lived alone so that didn't help. Even when she had resorted to the police, at first, they had said he was a grown man and probably just left on his own. After a short search,the case was dropped.

"Come on,Fran,you have to leave this house, you don't look good, let's go shopping and you'll feel better, I promise." Val tried for the millionth time to get her friend out of her room, because her parents would be home soon and would wonder what had happened to their daughter.

Fran was tired of moping and had to admit a little fresh air might do her some good and finally agreed.

"Ok,Val,let me just take a shower I'll be ready soon," in no time they were on their way to the mall.

Though not completely Fran had to admit seeing people and being out helped keep her mind off of Fred and, for a couple of hours, she was actually enjoying her time out with her dear friend.

"Agg,Fran,can you believe what these people get away with wearing nowadays?" Val said eyeing a society magazine.

Fran looked over at the picture Val was referring to and saw a slender blonde woman wearing an extremely sheer satin gown that could have passed for lingerie. She rolled her eyes before something caught her attention in the caption.

"Val let me see that article for a minute." Fran said almost snatching the paper from her.

"The beautiful Catherine Myers is taking the society world by storm, she is young,stunning and loaded," Fran continued to read out loud and it hit Val that they both recognized that last name. "But,daddy's little girl, (yes the darling Miss is none other the baby girl of large advertisement tycoon,Richard Myers) has been busy these days. Sorry boys but this gorgeous gal has just left single hood this week, she wed an aspiring new comer also in advertisement, a lucky man by the name of Fred Turner." The magazine trembled within Fran's fingers and she looked as though she had just been shot.

Val just stared in shock. Then she tried taking the magazine away from Fran who reacted violently.

"No wait!" She turned the page and there was a full page picture of the two happily marrying in a fancy small mansion reception. "Ladies, could you just eat your heart out. I mean,the girl has it all, money, fame and now a gorgeous husband!" Those were the last words she read before she tossed the magazine to the floor. Suddenly everything made sense, his distant attitude and sudden changes when they were together. He was with that air head yuppie all along. "Let's go,Val," she said coldly not showing the least bit of emotion.

"Fran, are you ok, I know you're not but, don't worry, that jerk didn't deserve you, he never did," the look Fran gave her almost scared her.

"Val, there is no Fred Turner, from this day on the man I was with for ten years is dead, you hear me dead, to me he's dead," she repeated before her voice trailed off.

Maxwell Sheffield sat in front of what seemed like a mountain of scripts, things had gone well for him as far as work since his wife died. It seemed, he had more time on his hands for work these days. Every so often it would hit him that the reason for this was that he spent no time with his family like he used to do when she was alive. He knew this from how amazed he got every time he looked at his kids and realized he didn't recognize them anymore. They were growing so quickly right in front of him and he was missing it all. He had tried, on occasions, to get closer to them but they shut him out in resentment for all the time he spent in exile during the early stages of Sarah's death. He hadsubconsciouslymade them orphans by ignoring them. They had lost their mom and dad all in one sitting.Max couldn't find a way of getting his life back so instead hechosethe easier route, bury himself in his work.

"Hello, Hello!Maxwell, since we have those scripts to go through, I thought it would be a good idea to have Niles serve us our lunch out here on your terrace, wouldn't that be cozy?" CC asked with a suggestive voice.

"Yes, whatever CC, I'm not really that hungry so whatever you decide is good." Maxwell responded in his usual distracted demeanor.

CC grunted to herself, it seemed nothing she did to get his attention worked. She had loved her business partner for so long and hated the fact that he first chose Sarah over her and now work was taking first place. At least, she thought, as long as his interest was work she would have the upper hand that was her turf after all.

"Lunch is served, sirs," Niles spit out glaring at CC.

"Beat it, Handy Wipe, we have a lot of work to do," she said practically pushing him out the door.

They sat down to lunch and CC noticed him spacing out as usual.

"Maxwell, you know that huge society gala is coming upandeveryone who is anyone will be there. Of course, you and I should make an appearance." CC said, glowing, she loved those high society events they were her kind of people, rich and ready to give up money. Besides, she would not give up the opportunity to be alone with Maxwell. That would be the night to make her move.

Maxwell, on the other hand, hated those stuffy, pretentious parties where a group of fakers smiled all night just to show off or see what they could get out of each other.

"CC, I have no intention attending that party, but if you feel it would be good for getting potential investors then by all means, I trust you to represent the company."

CC frowned annoyed at his usual I'm dead to the world attitude. "Maxwell, how will it look if I show up there aloneyou're the one they want to speak to, besides you haven't been out in ages. Come on," just then she heard her cell phone ring.

"Just a minute, Maxwell; think about it," she gestured as she stepped away to her phone call.

Max stared blankly at the view from his terrace he sure hoped CC wouldn't insist on this blasted party. Just then Niles entered the office.

"Sir is everything okay? I will be stepping out momentarily,"

"Yes, Niles, I need your opinion on something. Do you think I should go to this party Miss Babcock is speaking of?" Max had always confided in his butler, he had become more of a friend than anything else.

"Well, sir, as much as Miss Babcock and I quibble, I do believe she has a point when she says you have to move on, maybe this party is just what you need to get out there and meet new people." Niles always hoped his boss would find love again, he just hoped Miss Babcock would not have her way in that department.

"I know, you're right Niles, it's just so hard for me, I know it has been years since Sarah's death, but it feels like only yesterday she was here with us." Max felt a heavy heart at the mention of his departed wife.

"I understand, sir, but you are still here and your children are too, maybe you should spend your time trying to use the time you have left with them wisely."

"Niles, do you think it would be good for me to bring the children along to this affair? After all, I have seen that at a lot of these things they bring their children a long, kind of exposure for them, and it could be like a coming out event for Maggie." His eyes glowed when he spoke of his children. He loved them so much and, they were his only link to Sarah. He so wished he knew how to raise them now that he was on his own. He had wasted so much time wallowing in his sorrow that he forgot about them and theirsorrow.

"Well, sir, if you believe it's a good idea, then it probably is. I think it's splendid that you are thinking of them and are including them in your plans. If you want, I can convince them,as I know you have somewhat of a hard time with them."

Max felt ashamed at the fact that he couldn't even talk to his own children, but,it was true,they got along famously with Niles. He would just try to win them over slowly starting with that night.

"Then, it issettled,I am attending the event Saturday night" Max said just in time for CC to catch it.

"Splendid, Maxwell, you changed your mind, I can't wait. You and I are going to have such a marvelous time, you'll see." She smiled at him, adoringly.

"Actually, CC, it will be me, you, and the children so make all the arrangements as far as reserving for the proper amount of people." Max spoke without even looking at her, so he didn't notice the look of shock and disappointment on her face.

"What, the children! But, this isn't Chucky Cheese,Maxwell, it's the social event of the season! Why on earth would you want to bring the children along?"

Max's head sprung up at her tone when she mentioned his children."Excuse me, is there a problem with my children I don't know about, CC."

CC took a deep breath and decided to cool it a bit. "Of course not, Maxwell, you know I love those kids, but it's a night affair I just thought it was a bit inappropriate, of course, if you insist."

"Yes, I do, CC, you know as well as me that other people at these events have brought their children and, very proudly, I might add. Why should it be such a crazy notion for me to do so," Maxwell finished, placing his glasses back on his face and starting to look through his papers again.

CC rolled her eyes. She could not believe that even when she won she lost.

"Anyway, Maxwell, have you heard what this year's big deal will be at the event?" CC said trying to lighten up the air.

"No, CC, I can't say that I have," Max responded rather uninterested.

"Well, apparently, there is this young new model that has been taking Europe by storm, and is making her debut in the states; she is being introduced at the party. This should be good they say she is on every magazine cover in Europe. Here, she's in the article about the party that's her picture." CC said practically shoving the picture in his face.

Maxwell sighed he had no interest in reading about another model, no different from all the rest he assumed. Her eyes caught his and he couldn't believe how beautiful she was. But not the typical blonde, blue eyed, beautiful he was used to seeing. No, she was different and her gorgeous chocolate brown eyes almost had him in a trance. Everything about her was unique even her outfit. It certainly was not the kind of style he usually saw on these models. No,she screamed individuality and boldness.

"Ahem," CC coughed loudly, wondering if it was a mistake showing him a picture of this woman, after seeing his sudden interest inherpicture.

"What is it, CC, you asked me to look at the photo andI was doing so, she is quite lovely, I suppose," Max tried his best to regain his composure, he had no intention of giving such a show of appreciation for a woman, especially in front of CC.

"Yes,well, let's get back to work shall we," CC said quickly putting away the magazine, last thing she needed was him drooling over some model bimbo.

"Oh, Frannie, doesn't it feel good to be back in New York after spending so much time in Europe, I have to say there is no place like home." Val smiled at her friend as their limo pulled up to their apartment.

"Yeah, I guess so, Val, but you know how I feel about this place, way too many memories here, I have mixed feeling about it, I suppose." Fran said looking around at the place where she had grown up.

"Oh,Fran,forget all that stuff think about all the success you've had since you met that model scout back when that whole Danny thing…" She held her mouth. "I'm sorry, Fran, I know you don't like to hear about anything that has to do with your past."

"That's okay, Val." Fran knew her friend didn't mean any harm. The fact was, she had tried to forget everything about her past. After the humiliation Fred put her through, things got pretty bad for her. She thought about how he had hurt her in so many ways. Not only did he leave her on their wedding day, but he screwed up her life after that too. She had no education and barely any job skills, thanks to her stupid need to always please him and his idea that the woman should be at home. She had been in a sorry state for a long time after that. Then she met Danny, and her self esteem, being what it was, she thought she could do no better. The guy offered her affection and a job at his bridal shop. She had put up with so much in her time with Danny, but she finally caught him in bed with Heather Biblo and decided that was the last of it. She walked away devastated, she was again out of luck with love and work. It was then she met John Alec, her current agent, who said he would make her famous if she agreed to move to Europe and become a spokesperson for a perfume that was being launched over there. Much to her mother's dismay and, after some hesitation of making such a big change, she agreed to go. Her career took off from there. The offers poured in and now here she was rich and famous about to debut in the states and yet was completely empty. If it had not been for Val, who had stuck by her, she would not have been able to deal with all the phoniness that came along with the business. She thought back at how Fred had chosen money and this lifestyle over her and could notunderstand it. She would give it all away to be truly happy with a man she loved and loved her back.

"Fran, are you excited about Saturday I hear everyone will be there, you should see all the celebrities that are going." Val said trying to get her friend back to her, she noticed her melancholic expression.

"Yeah, I suppose, Val," Fran said absently.

The week flew by and now everything was underway, and ready for the big event.

"Niles, are the children ready yet, CC is waiting in the limo, we can't be late." Maxwell was always rather impatient and he tried his hardest not to get annoyed. This evening was supposed to be for him and the children to spend some quality time together.

"Yes, sir, here they are," Max watched as his children came down all dressed up. He couldn't help feeling proud. His two youngest were a vision and, well, Maggie, his oldest, was the spitting image of Sarah.

They all piled into the limo and CC took a spot right next to Maxwell, making the kids have to sit across from them. She had every intention of having Maxwell as much to herself as possible. Maybe they would get bored and butler boy could drive them home early she thought.

They arrived promptly and were greeted and seated at their table.

"Geez, can this thing be anymore boring?" Brighton spat out.

"I know, Brighton, but suck it up, at least dad is trying to spend time with us, so just smile and be nice," Maggie whispered to her little brother, and catching a glimpse at the youngest of her siblings who was almost mute and distant, as usual. Maggie and everyone else had become concerned about Gracie,as she was the most affected by the death of their mother, being a baby and all, and now there was no one that could help raise her.

The party went by swiftly and all were awaiting the entrance of the new model.

"Daddy, what is the big deal about this woman, it's not like she's the first model to ever make it big?" Catherine rolled her eyes, obviously annoyed that she was not the center of attention for a change.

"Now,honey, you know,at least for us,this is very important, we have to be the first ones to speak to this girl, she's the hottest thing right now, and she would make us a ton of money if she were to agree to be the face for our new advertisement deal." Old man Myers answered his daughter but not really paying much attention to her. "But good thing we got the best man on it, your husband is our golden boy and I'm sure he'll get our girl."

Catherine yawned unimpressed by her father's praise of her husband. Over the years she had grown weary of Fred he was never home, and spent more time with her father thanwithher.

Fred lazily walked over to the bar for a drink, he hated these parties. He had become arm candy for Catherine and realized a lot of his success was due to his marriage not his talents. Most of the time, he couldn't even use his own ideas, he had to just sit back and get paid just for being the boss's son-in-law.

"Scotch on the rocks,please," Fred asked the bartender bumping into someone in the process.

"Excuse me, sorry,you were first." Maxwell turned to the man and shook his head.

"No, don't worry about it, it's quite alright, no rush," He gestured for Fred to step up.

"Thank you, Fred Turner, you are?" Fred extended his hand to Max.

"Maxwell Sheffield, pleasure to meet you," Fred accepted his hand shake.

"Nice party, huh," Fred said attempting small talk

"I suppose if you're into this kind of thing," Max said looking around to all the shallow people around him.

"I hear you, I'm not really a society ball person myself, you herealone?"

"No, I'm here with my business partner and children, they are over there" Max said pointing to his table.

"Hmm, they seem bored, poor things, I don't blame them" Fred laughed sympathetically.

"Yes,well,now they know what their old man has to go through all the time, listen it was a pleasure, I had better get back to my table it seems they are going to introduce this model now."

"Okay, I'll do the same, pleasure is all mine." They shake hands one last time and head for their respective tables.

The lights begin to dim and everyone's attention is directed to the entrance in the back of the hall. Finally, the announcer introduces the person everyone was anxiously waitingsee. There,in the most gorgeous long black cocktail dress, stood Fran Fine. She stands before all the admiring eyes, in all her glory. Her hair is pinned up loosely, and large soft curls stream down her head and face. The dress comes down to the floor, but the left side is accentuated with a large slit that shows off her firm long leg. It hugs tightly to every curve of her body giving everyone a display of her slender, yet very shapely, physique. The lights return back to normal, but all eyes are still on the person that has just gracedthem with her presence.The menweremesmerized by her beauty and the womenweregreen with envy at how the men stared, not to mention the breathtaking diamond necklace that decorated her bare neck.

At the first sight of her, Fred felt as though he had just been punched in the gut. He couldn't believe it was her. The only woman he had ever loved, the woman he still loved, but it was her and she was lovelier than ever. How had she becomesofamous? Last he had heard, she was working in some bridal shop in Queens. All the regret he had felt for what he done to her, so many years ago, had now multiplied. She was everything a man could ever want and he couldn't believe he had let her go.

On his side, Max was having as hard a time of keeping his eyes off of this glorious woman as everyone else. But, unlike everyone else, he saw past the jewels, make up and glamour. What he saw was a delicate creature, with soft milky skin, with grace and,at the same time,a simplicity that he had notseen in anyone since…,well,Sarah. The smile on her face was breathtaking but seemed, somewhat, forced as if she hated being there. Stared down by strangers who either envied her or wanted to get a piece of her. For the first time in years Max felt a rush through his body, when he looked at her, and it scared him.

"Wow, she's hot, huh, dad?" Brighton said staring along with all the other men in the room

Max gave his son a hearty chuckle, "Yes, I suppose she isquitecharming son."

"Charming nothing look at that body," Brighton was suddenly enjoying the party.

"Now, son, be nice that is no way for a gentleman to speak about a lady."

"Yes, dad, sure…" he said laughing to himself.

Maggie watched as the woman walked around wowing everyone she passed and spoke to. Oh, if she only had half of the confidence and beauty Fran Fine possessed,Maggie thought slouched down in her chair remembering why she hated coming out like this. There were just so many beautiful women and she could never think to compete with any of them or their daughters. She hugged her baby sister tightly who seemed to be extremely out of it. But then again that was nothing new. Poor Gracie had more therapy sessions than toys. Maggie felt Gracie suddenlystruggle to get out of her embrace and run to her father.

"Daddy, that's a very pretty lady," she spoke to a very shocked Maxwell. They seldom heard Gracie speak. They knew she could speak very well, but she just refused. The therapist said that she only speaks if something catches her interest enough for her to point it out verbally.

Maxwell picked up his baby girl for the first time in what he is sure had been ages. "Yes, sweetheart, she certainly is. Was there something you wanted daddy to bring you?" Gracie just ignored his question and continued to stare up at Fran who was now standing mere steps from them.

"Can we talk to her, daddy?" She finally asked, with her eyes sparkling as if she were at Disney World watching Mickey Mouse.

"Um, she is quite busy, sweetheart, maybe later, alright?" He saw the disappointed expression on her face and it broke his heart, what could it hurt. Now, if they could only get past that mob that was swamping her.

"Yeah, dad, I want to meet her too, she seems nice." Brighton added with a devilish grin.

"That's enough, Brighton; we'll try to approach her when the crowd dies down, okay?"

"Well, that'll take a year." Maggie responded snidely.

Fran must have met and greeted over a hundred people and had only been in the room for ten minutes. The sad part was she couldn't even differentiate one of those faces and names. She felt as though she was saying hello to the same man and woman over and over. What did people ever see in this lifestyle? She had no answer. The only thing she enjoyed was being able to expose her style like she had always dreamed. The people kept coming and coming, and Fran began to feel like a robot or an exhibit there to be gawked and poked at before moving on.

"Oh, I wish Val could've been here," she spoke softly to herself looking down in dismay, before being brought back by the most familiar voice of her life.

"You and Val still best friends, huh?" Their eyes met almost instantly, and Fran wasn't sure she could stay on her feet.

"Fred! What are you doing here?" Fran thought of what to ask the man she had loved and then despised for so long. How many times had she played this scene out in her head and yet here they were, and all she could think of was what are you doing here.

"Fran, you look incredible, I can't believe you are here like this, you are the woman they have been hyping up for so long! I don't..." Fred was also lost for words, here was the woman he spent most of his early life with and yet she seemed nothing like that Fran he knew. This Fran was soft spoken and elegant, a lot like the women he had come in contact with in the past few years.

"Yes, well, we all know what you thought about me and what I would become in life. Things didn't exactly turn out the way you planned. I'm not in that gross Queens apartment taking care some of children now am I?" She spat out sarcastically. She couldn't keep talking to this man,as all the anger, hurt,and desperation she had managed to push away in her mind started surfacingright here in the middle of a very public area.

"Frannie, I would like to speak to you in private, there is so much I have to tell you and explain. Can we, please?" Fred was almost begging and seemed to have forgotten where he was.

Fran just glared at him. How dare he ask for anything from her now. There was no way she was going anywhere with this jerk, she just had to find the way to walk away smoothly without making a scene.

"No,thank you,Fred, it's not necessary for you to explain anything, it's all quite clear, now if you'll excuse me." She tried to walk away but he held her arm firmly and slowly pulled her back.

"Fran, please…?"

Fred was so preoccupied trying to convince Fran that he hadn't noticed his wife watching intently at a very close proximity. She had known Fran was trouble from the get go and, although her feelings for Fred weren't the same, she refused to let some newcomer step in on him. So she started for them.

"Maxwell, there you are, why are you hanging around the table all night, we have investors to butter up and you are wasting time here," CC whined almost pulling at his arm.

"CC, I brought the children here I was just making sure they were okay, there is plenty of time for all that," he said putting Grace down.

"No, Maxwell, you see that man over there he is the wealthiest man in the city, if we don't get to him soon I'm sure there is a line of gold diggers waiting to do so, now come on, the kids will be alright. Right kids, right you see?" she answered herself before pulling Maxwell away from the table and leaving Gracie on the floor, watching as she took her dad away as usual. It usually no longer affected her, but having been in his arms for the first time in so long made her become emotional. She was a small child and, after all, there so much she could take. She began to tear up.

"Fred, excuse me, but I have to go and, besides, your wife is headed right in our direction.I think you had better take your hands off me before you get into big trouble with Barbie." She said releasing her arm and starting to walk away.

"Hello there,it's so nice to finally meet the woman behind all this commotion, I'm Catherine Turner. I hope my husband hasn't been hounding you with toomuch business," Fran smiled back at the fakest attempt ofanintroduction she had seen all night.

"You know,I have lived in Europe for some time, and it's amazing how different it is over there, wouldn't you say? I mean, they seem to take anything in, no questions asked. The fashion is outrageous and, well, they'll let just about anyone display them don't you agree? You must know quite a bit about it, being in the industry yourself." Catherine took a sip of her champagne, happy with the low punch she had just taken on Fran.

Fran, on the other hand, just nodded in compliance, it suddenly became very obvious how threatened this rich, gorgeous, pretentious snob was of her and it caused her amusement.

"Yes,you're right, but it sells here in the States, so whatever works, right?"By the way, nice dress, honey..."she added before noticing the first thing that caught her eyesinceshe had entered the room. There, a few feet away, was the sweetest little girl standing alone, staring blankly at someone on the floor. She didn't know why but she was compelled to go to her. Maybe it was the tears Fran could have sworn she saw the little girl try to push back. She looked further back and noticed two other older yet just as miserable kids.

She looked back at the couple in front of her and saw Catherine was still babbling about something andshe hadn't heard a word.

"Yes,well,it'svery nice to meet you both and, if you'll excuse me, there is something very urgent that requires my attention," Fran proceeded towards Gracie, leaving Catherine'smouth agape at the interruption.

"Well, I have never, it's very easy to see the girl has no class, and you could have done a better job of not drooling over her," she said trying to get Fred's still occupied attention.

"Don't be ridiculous, I was trying to speak to her about business but she doesn't like to do business at parties, I'll have to set up an appointment with her." Fred said before taking his wife back to their table. At the same time,thinking he needed to convince Fran to speak to him.

"Why the long face, angel?A sweet little thing like you should always have a smile on her face." Gracie looked up following the very unique voice she had just heard, and her eyes were greeted with the warmest smile she had seen.

Fran bent down to be at her level and placed her hands on each of Gracie's shoulders. "Sweetheart, where are your mommy and daddy?"

Gracie looked down sadly, "My mommy is in heaven and daddy is busy, he is always busy."

Fran had to fight back the tears. This little girl just broke her heart the minute she laid eyes on her.

"Don't worry about her she'll be okay, she's a bit sensitive," Maggie said walking over to take her sister's hand.

Fran stood up and saw a beautiful young girl who she could tell was extremely timid and insecure about her appearance. She was thin, blonde, blue eyed, just like the other snobs she met, but this one didn't have half of the narcissistic waysabout her the others had.

"Hi there, you must be the big sis in the group, I'm Fran Fine and you are?" She extended her hand for Maggie to take and she did. Fran gave her a bright smile that shook Maggie a bit. She was nothing like she thought she would be when she entered the room. I guess she figured someone so beautiful and popular would think too much of herself to come and talk to insignificant children. Yet, here she was shaking her hand as if they were the same.

"Hi, I'm Maggie, I mean Margaret Sheffield, this is my brother, Brighton, and, of course, you met Gracie," Maggie said, poking Brighton so he would stop staring.

"Nice to meet you all, how you doing there Brighton, enjoying yourself?" She said noticing how he stared. She laughed, it was almost refreshing to see a young boy act just like they were supposed to, it reminded her of all the boys back in Flushing when she was growing up, always drooling over anything with a skirt.

"Yes Madame," he responded almost choking on the words.

"Eww, what's that Madame stuff? Call me Fran, I feel old when you call me that" she laughed out loud.

They laughed with her like they hadn't done with anyone in a long time, especially not someone from high society.

Fran felt a tug on her skirt, it was Gracie gesturing to be carried. Fran smiled, the child was a bit old to be carried but it was obvious she craved attention.

"There we go, sweetie, better?" Fran asked, seeing her nod happily gave her the answer.

"That's amazing, Fran, Gracie barely lets me touch her never mind a stranger, since our mom…, well, died things have been hard. Gracie was almost a baby and we spend a lot of time with each other; just the three of us that's why she only trusts me and Brighton." Maggie explained, not knowing fully why she was sharing all this with a woman she just met.

"Oh well, sweetie, I'm sure things will turn out alright, at least you still have your father who I'm sure loves you all very much." Fran saw how difficult it was for this young girl to talk about all this and was glad she could at least get it off her chest.

"Yeah, loves us, but he seems to love his work more, at least ever since mom died." Brighton said pointing to a tall dark haired man standing in the middle of a group of older men and a very tall elegant blonde.

"I'm sure that's not true you guys, its just he needs to work I know the feeling and sometimes even though you don't want to you let it run your life, trust me we don't do it on purpose." Fran suddenly got an idea to get their father back to them.

She put Gracie down, but she immediately grabbed Fran's hand possessively. Fran couldn't believe how touched she was by the way this little girl seemed to have taken to her so quickly.

"I got an idea, kids, I'll be right back. Do you mind if your sister takes a walk with me, I'll stay in your sight I promise?" The two older kids nodded trustingly.

"Okay, here we go, sweetie, get ready to meet some very stuffy, boring people, trust me you get used to it." Fran headed towards the group of people Brighton had pointed to still not completely sure which one was their father.

"Excuse me, Idon't mean to interrupt but I wonder if I could get in on this conversation." All the men turned admiringly to the vision that stood beside them and smiled appreciatively. Maxwell couldn't believe how breathtaking this woman was. Up close he could appreciate her features even better. Those eyes, that figure and, oh, that smile, he just couldn't help the butterflies he felt in her presence.

"Of course,my dear,you are the lady of the night, it would be a pleasure to have you in our humble presence." One of the older men exclaimed while lustfully gawking at her.

"Why thank you, sir," Fran sucked it up, she saw the look he was giving her and it disgusted her.

"So, my dear, how are you enjoying yourself? I'm sure the offers have poured infrom more businesses than one, and gentlemen too," he laughed haughtily.

"It'sbeen great but actually one of the sweetest, most interesting people I've met tonight is with me right now," she responded.

"Oh, and who is this extremely lucky fellow, because I'm assuming it's a fellow?" One of the men asked curiously.

"No, actually, it's a she," Fran said pulling Gracie, who had been hiding behind her the whole time, tenderly in front of her, while stroking her hair lovingly.

She heard the crowd give their fake OOh's and AWW's but one person's head sprout up instantly, and she knew she had found her man. And what a man he was. His gorgeous olive green eyes searched hers as though asking what was the meaning of this?

"Sweetie, why don't you tell everyone your name, go on honey they don't bite," Fran asked Gracie, now bent down to her level once again.

She turned to the group, "I'm Grace Sheffield and that's my daddy right there" she added pointing to Maxwell.

As surprising and somewhat disturbing as it was to see a complete stranger holding his daughter's hand, it was also amazing to see his Grace speaking out loud that way in front of a large group of people she didn't know. How had this mysterious woman accomplished something he himself didn't even dare attempt with his own daughter.

Everyone smiled and Max stretched out his arms for his daughter to come into them. After a small encouraging nudge from Fran, she did so.

"Yes, indeed, this is my youngest little girl, everyone," Max said not being able to take his eyes off Fran. Much toCC'sdisapproval, not only had Maxwell brought in a child to an adult, money related, conversation he just couldn't take his eyes off that damn model.

"Maxwell, why don't you let the child run along now, we are still discussing business." CC added, trying to get Gracie out of his arms.

Fran instantly came closer she didn't like the way this woman was treating Grace and could tell she only wanted to land the father and move the kids out of the picture.

"Well, actually if you don't mind, Mr. Sheffield, I did have a business question for you and would appreciate a minute of your time, the angelcancome along, of course,"she said giving Grace a wink that she received with a laugh.

Max gave her an intrigued look, what could a model possibly want to speak with me about, was she interested in acting?

"Um, yes, of course, will you excuse us gentlemen, CC," he said slowly stepping out of the crowd.

"Very nice to meet you all, hopefully, we'll meet again soon." Fran bid them all farewell, as she was out of their sight she made a slight fed up expression, that Maxwell had just enough time to catch.

"Hmm, why do I get the feeling this kind of party is not really your style," he said picking Gracie up, as they found a spot where they could privately talk.

"You don't know the half of it." They laughed softly and looked at each other, fixedly, maybe a bit longer than either had intended.

"I guess I should explain what I was doing with your daughter back there. You see, the little one here caught my eye she didn't look too entertained so I approached her and your other children who, by the way, are just so amazing. I know you must get that a lot only I mean it," she paused and caught him analyzing and taking in every word she was saying. "I have an eye for these things, they are great but they are missing one thing, and ifit'snot too forward of me to say, I think I know what it is."

Maxwell looked at her now wondering why this woman who he had just met is giving him ideas about what she thinks his children need. Surprisingly, it didn't bother him as it usually did when people start to interfere in his personal life. Something about her was so genuine and unique,he was drawn to her, and would take any kind of attention she would offer.

"By all means",he finally spoke.

"They were missing you, their father, your attention, they love and need you I can tell by the way they were looking at you from across the room" Fran suddenly felt like Oprah or someone trying to fix this completely strange family's life.

"Yes, daddy, I love youandI miss you when you go away" Gracie said giving Max a hug that warmed his heart.

"I love you too,sweetheart," he added again not taking his eyes from Fran.

"Aww, that's so sweet, she is just the cutest little thing ever" Fran stepped in not being able to resist the touching scene.

"Daddy, isn't Fran nice and beautiful just like we said before, remember?" Gracie suddenly spoke up.

Fran blushed a little at her comment she didn't know why but she liked it that he had been admiring her from afar.

Max gave a small chuckle to hide his own embarrassment, "Yes,sweetheart, she certainly is. Why don't you go right over there with your brother and sister I'll be with you in a second I promise," Gracie smiled and agreed, before leaving she gave Fran a big hug and asked if she would come too. When Fran agreed to, the little girl walked over with a trace of content Maxwell almost didn't recognize anymore, in any of his children, or himself, for that matter.

"So,Miss Fine,tell me do you double as a family counselor on your spare time," he asked in a mocking tone.

"First of all,it's Fran and, second of all, no, I do not, let's just say I double as a first class Yenta on my spare time" Fran could tell some of her answers were lost in translation.

"Yenta is Yiddish for a person that is nosy" she couldn't help laugh a little at the look on his face, when he caught on to what she meant.

"Nosy is a strong word,Miss Fine,I would say curious," Max added not recognizing himself, he usually took so long to warm up to people, especially women and yet here he was openly joking with a complete stranger.

Fran couldn't believe how drawn she was to this man, and she felt as though she was talking to a man she had known for years. She starved for real,down to earth, human contact. The life she had been living since she became a model was so empty and superficial. Day in and day out she met people that wanted either to get her into a contract or some sleaze ball who just wanted to get her into bed. But there was something different about this one, he didn't seem to want a thing from her yet he was still listening to her.

"I guess I won't take up anymore of your time, I know you are in high demand tonight, but thank you for talking to my children, it was very nice of you," Max took her hand and kissed it gently.

Fran felt a jolt of electricity as he did so, what was this man doing to her. She couldn't count the number of gorgeous men she had met tonight alonebut this one, well, she just couldn't explain it.

Max was having his own battle within, they just met and, yet, the feeling he was getting from the mere gesture of kissing her hand was overwhelming. He pulled back from her suddenly thinking it was wrong to feel this way. The memory of Sarah was still more than present and no matter how intriguing this woman was, there was no comparing the two.

"It was my pleasure, they really are angels, and I would love it if you let me say goodbye to them before you leave?" She wondered if she was being too forward but she had to ask, the children had captivated her as much as their father.

"Don't feel you need to I can say goodbye for you," He paused seeing the look of disappointment on her face. "But,of course,who can refuse such a lovely gesture." He smiled, returning her gratuitous expression.

"So I'll be by in a little while, it was a pleasure Maxwell."

"Same to you, Miss Fine." He said before watching her leave to her many admirers.

Fran smiled to herself as she turned to leave. She thought it was so cute how he maintained that level of respect by refusing to call her Fran. No one she knew had ever been so gentle with her and it was more than cute, it was very attractive.

"Dad, she was awesome, nothing like I thought she would be, anddid she say if she was coming back over here?" Maggie asked eagerly as her dad returned to the table.

"Yeah, dad,I have to say she is more than just a pretty face, she's really cool," Brighton added.

"Yes,she is charming, I suppose, she said she would return to say goodbye later but I wouldn't count on it, there are a lot of people here to see her, and I doubt she'll have the time," Max said trying not to show any particular interest in her than in any of the other people they had met that night.

"Dad, she said she would come back, remember?" Gracie asked tugging at him.

"Yes, sweetheart,I'm sure she'll try her best." Max wondered what she had talked to them about, to make them want her to come back. He sat down and watched as they slowly drifted back into their solemn state and found that he was wishing she would return as well.

"Maxwell, I don't know what that was all about with that woman, but you left me all alone to handle our business and I need you here. I know the children aren't exactly having a blast, but it's their fault for not wanting to mingle with the other children that came with their parents," CC was venting out all the frustration she had stored up. Not only had Maxwell practically ignored her, which was not unusual,but that whole scene with that model had infuriated her. He had spent years swearing he would never get involved with anyone again and that Sarah was the one and only love of his life and yet here he was clearly pawning over some model bimbo.

"CC, I can't force the children to interact if they don't want to, I am sure you handled those investors beautifully as you usually do." Max was in no mood to argue with CC and was just about ready to call it a night.

"Well, can you at least come with me so he can set up an appointment with the both of us?"

Max sighed loudly, he knew he did have to see to business, it is the real reason he attended the blasted thing after all. "I suppose, lets go, I promise I'll be right back kids and afterwards we can head home if you like." They nodded absently and he was off again.

Fran was exhausted, so much was resting on that night and she had gotten a lot of offers but, to be honest, she was sick of the life of glamour and stardom. She wished she could just settle down and maybe just open up a store where she could sell her designs. But, at the same time, just be in one place she called home. The thought of a family crossed her mind, but she waved it off thinking how she was so unfortunate in that department. Not everything was meant for everyone. She sure would love some children, like those she met tonight, she didn't know why she had taken such a liking to them, and she knew if shewereever blessed enough to have kids, they would be like them. She sighed to herself in a small corner she had found away from everyone.

"Why so lonely, sweetheart," Fran was startled by an older gray haired man, who was now at a very uncomfortable proximity. Fran could almost taste all the scotch the man had consumed.

"I'm okay, thank you, I don't mind a little me time once and while," she answered, shortly, but trying not to sound too rude.

"Well, a beautiful gal like you shouldn't be alone for too long, it would be a waste. Fran, I want to get right to the point my name is Richard Myers, I would like to tell you a little about what I do," the old man started without even letting Fran say whether or not she was even interested in listening to him.

"I know who you are and what you do, you have a big advertisement company am I right?" Fran thought what luck she had out of all the people she could see tonight she had to run into the last ones she ever wanted to know about. It was only a matter of time she supposed, being in the modeling industry that damn name was bound to come up.

"Oh, gorgeous and smart, that's right, sugar, and I can say you would be perfect in our new makeup campaign. Why, with that face, you would be perfect, there would be a generous contract in it for you if you agreed to it." As he spoke, the man came closer and now Fran was becoming annoyed. Not only did the man not have a clue how to talk to a person, but now he was really invading her space.

"I don't think I'm interested in anything long term right now, I'm in the middle of something and…" Fran pushed back a bit to get away from the strong smell of alcohol.

"Now think about it, honey, before you blow me off, this is a great opportunity for you, I have one of the biggest names in advertising and we could benefit each other immensely,"

Fran couldn't believe this guy. Where did he get off calling her these pet names?So far,she was seeing what a mistake Fred had made by marrying into this family. Maybe he was paying for her suffering after all.

As if on cue, "sir, why don't you just let me handle this," Fred said after noticing that his father in-law was drunk and harassing Fran.

"Ah, I suppose, but me and the fair lass were getting along fine, I'm sure she will take my offer," he winked abrasively at Fran, and walked off without saying a word leaving them alone.

"Fred, save your breath, there is no way I'm working with that jerk or the one he has for a son-in-law." Fran retorted before he even got a chance to speak.

"Fran, I know I really hurt you, I wish you would just give me a chance to show you how sorry I am."

"You sure are,Fred, if you think you're just going to walk right into my life, now that everything is going well for me, you got another thing coming." Fran had heard enough,and startedtowalk away.

"Fran,please,at least take my card and, if you ever find it in your heart to at least listen to me, I would really appreciate it," Fred was desperate he had to get her to listen.

"Whatever, give me the card, I'll put it in my pile along with all the other saps that want a chance." She felt good throwing at him, and it was the least he deserved.

"Fran,I don't want to believe that you actually hook up with all the jerks you must get coming after you, you aren't like that are you?" He couldn't hide the fact that he hated the thought of her with someone else.

"Sorry, but that is none of your business," just then Fran'seyes caught someone's who brought a bright smile to her face.

Noticing, Fred turned to look at what had her so captivated, and his eyes saw exactly what had her attention. It was that guy he had met earlier at the bar. But, how does he know Fran and why is she smiling at him, he wondered.

"Excuse me, Fred, but I have something to do, I have your card I'll get back to you if I get the chance," she said and headed straight for Max.

"Okay, Fran, thanks," he was practically talking to himself, as she was already half way to the man across the room. He didn't like what he was seeing one bit.

"Hello again," she spoke first as she came up to him

"Hello there, I'm so sorry to interrupt, you looked like you were in the middle of something," Max said a bit apprehensive he didn't want to seem too eager for her to come over to him.

"No, not at all,it'sa closed case believe me," Fran didn't want him thinking she and Fred were discussing anything personal, and she found herself wondering why.

"I just wanted to thank you, once again, for the gesture you had with the children, and they are somewhat anxious for you to say goodbye, if it's not too much trouble, of course."

Fran smiled, was this man cute or what, he was so careful not to overstep his boundaries not at all like the countless number of morons that had talked to her tonight.

"I would be disappointed if I left without saying goodbye, believe me it is no trouble at all, I honestly enjoy your children very much," she said slowly moving towards their table again.

"Thank you that is quite sweet of you, I don't know what you did but they won't stop talking about you," Max added.

"With kids,you just have to listen and notice what they need and you can't go wrong," Fran said as theyreached the table.

"Fran!" Gracie instantly jumped over to Fran when she saw her.

"Hello angel, I hear you're leaving, I just came over to say goodbye," Fran said kneeling down to say goodbye to the youngest child.

"Fran, are we ever going to see you again, I mean, I know you're a busy woman and all but, forget it it's a stupid thing to ask," Maggie said realizing there was no way Fran would ever make time to see a bunch of strangers.

"Now,don't say that young lady, it's not stupid I would love to see you all again but it's not all up to me," she looked up to Max who had been enjoying seeing the interaction between his kids and her.

"We will see children now lets hurry up, we don't want to keep Miss Fine too long, say goodbye we have to be heading off anyway," Max felt he had to change the topic quickly, realizing his kids had gotten way too attached to her in such a short period of time.

"Goodbye, Fran, I really hope you make a little time to come see us,"

Brighton said giving her a long hug.

"Bye, sweetie, take care," she noticed Gracie still hadn't let go of her hand and was,particularly,worried about her.

"Okay,baby, you have to go with your daddy and siblings now, I hope to see you soon okay, take care angel, be a good girl." She kissed and hugged her and Gracie reluctantly let go and went to Maggie.

"Children, wait in the limo Niles will be waiting at the door, I'll be there in a second," they waved goodbye to Fran and went out to the limo

"Miss Fine,it's been a real pleasure, the best of luck to you in your career here in the states, I'm sure you will have nothing but success." Max noticed her demeanor had changed a bit.

"Same here, and I wondered…., well, I'm being too forward again,but do you think I could give you my card ,or something and, maybe one day I could see the kids again," she knew she was taking a huge risk. The guy didn't seem like he enjoyed having strangers interfere in his life but she couldn't help it. Everything in her told her not to let him go without some kind of way of reaching him again.

"Well, Miss Fine, I told you before you don't have to feel obligated to see them, they are enthusiastic now, but they will get over it, you know children," Max tried his hardest to hide the fact that he was thrilled she had offered to keep in touch. He knew he would have never taken that step. But he did know he wanted to see her again, at least as an acquaintance.

"Okay, I see I understand, I'm sorry if I seemed too pushy. I just connected so well with them that I guess I got carried away, forgive me please." She suddenly felt so foolish the guy was going to think she was coming on to him.

Seeing how uncomfortable he had made her, he suddenly felt like a cad. Here the woman was offering to take time out of her busy schedule to please his kids and what does he say, no thanks.

"No, please Miss Fine, you were not pushy at all, on the contrary you have been the most pleasant thing all night," he gave her a tender grin that suddenly eased her tense feeling. "I'll give you my card and if ever you have the time to do us the honor of stopping by please don't hesitate to call."

Fran smiled brightly and just nodded taking his card. Then was caught completely off guard when he leaned in and gave her what had to be the sweetest kiss on the cheek.

He felt her face warm up at his touch and hoped she didn't feel him tremble slightly as his lips met her face.

"Goodnight," she heard him say before he was off.

Fran heard her name and snapped out of thetranceshe had been in, turned and finished off the rest of the night. But the truth was if asked what happened after that kiss she couldn't remember.

8

The next few days were hell for Fran she had no idea how many people would want her to sign with them. She felt like a rope being tugged back and forth. There was not a moment's peace in her life and she sometimes wished she could just give it all up.

Out of all the things she had now, she couldn't think of one that made her feel happy.

"Fran, we have to be at that press conference soon have you decided who you are going to sign with?" Val was worried about Fran lately she hadn't seemed too interested in her job and was always distant.

"No, Val, I'm just so sick of everything, I don't know how much longer I can keep this up. I think maybe I need a break," she said plopping onto the couch in their penthouse apartment. "But honey we came to the States so you could become famous on this side of the world where everyone knew you, isn't that what you wanted?"

"Val, I don't know what I want anymore" she noticed her phone was ringing and looked over but decided she wasn't in the mood for anyone. Taking her purse, to turn the phone off, she notices the card. "Maxwell Sheffield," she reads out loud.

"What, who?" Val asked not knowing what on earth her friendwastalking about.

"Oh,Val, I didn't tell you the other night at the party, I met the sweetest kids ever. We took a liking to each other right away, and I met their father his name is Maxwell Sheffield. I'll tell you, Val, I haven't met a guy like him in ages if ever." Fran softly caressed the engraved business card, Maxwell Sheffield Broadway Producer, it had such a great and, at the same time, familiar ring to it.

"Really, well, did you two hit it off? I mean he gave you his number."

"No, he just did because I asked if I could see the kids again, I think he felt sorry for me, I must have sounded so pathetic to him." Fran said thinking back to when she last saw him. That kiss had almost moved the ground for her, and she had thought about calling that number so many times, but decided not to and, with her luck, his girlfriend would pick up and tell her

tell her off. She did wonder why he was therealonethat night. A man like that couldn't possibly be available.

"Well, Fran, you never know he may have liked you, you are gorgeous, rich and famous now, why not?" Val said, taking the card from her reading it for herself. Wait a minute, she thought.

"I know this guy.He is that Broadway producer who widowed a few years ago, his story was in all the magazines, really sad.He was left with three kids to raise all alone."

Fran thought back and suddenly it came to her. Once in her mother's old apartment she had seen an article about an eligible bachelor that had just widowed. Her mother was even trying to sell him to her but at the time she only had eyes for… she cringed at how stupid she was back then. Then a small laugh escaped her lips thinking how ironic it was that she met the very same man from that article. He had captivated her even back then, she remembered how handsome he looked and how out of her league he had seemed as well. She had felt like people in that position had it all back then, but now that she had that status she realized how empty it could be.

"Oh, Val, that poor man, and those kids, you should've seen how miserable they looked. I felt like bringing them home with me." Fran sighed at the thought of their little faces when they were alone at their table.

"The kids or the father?" Val said teasing Fran

"Val, stop that, I admit the man is attractive but that doesn't mean anything will happen. You know how I feel about that part of my life. There is just no room for it. It's not like I ever have much luck with it anyway."

"Fran, you can't just shut your heart out like that, just because it didn't work out for you in the past. I mean, you haven't really been serious with a guy since…, well, you know."

Fran thought how strange it felt seeing Fred after all those years. For a long time she had played their reunion out in her head perfectly. She would become successful and show him what he had lost. Rub it in his face and make him suffer. But, when she saw him that night, she felt different. She had no intention of making him suffer, or show off in front of him what a success she was now. The truth was, she didn't care enough anymore to even bother. In a way, she was more content this way. All the anger and hurt she was feeling before made her miserable and pushed her to take some drastic steps in her life that weren't necessarily what she wanted.

"Val, I know, but it's not about what happened with Fred anymore it's just that I'm convinced that love is just not for everyone, and I doubt anyone or anything could ever make me change my mind."

"So, you're not going to call him then?" Val hoped she would, she hadn't heard her friend express any interest in a man in so long it worried her.

Fran sighed, somehow calling this man was not like any other time she had done so. She felt nervous just thinking about it. What would he think that I'm desperate? Or maybe wonder why I had called, after all he just gave her the card out of courtesy because she had offered hers. No, she was definitely not going to call him. She took the card and placed it next to the phone. There would have to be some serious preparations made before she dialed that number.

Maxwell sat at his desk. He must have looked over at that phone thousands of times since that night. The children hadn't gone one day without asking if she had called. Why did he give her his card anyway, the children would have understood that she was just being nice, but had no obligation or interest to see them again. He hated that he had gotten them excited over nothing. The last thing they needed was to become close to someone and lose them. No, they couldn't handle another loss, none of them could. Why would she make such a fuss about keeping in touch if she had no intentions

to do so. Max became irritated, thinking she was just like those other women. He had thought for an instant that there was something different in her, and that's why he had been drawn to her that night. But she was just bored and it tickled her to humor the children for a little while. It wasn't her fault, when he thought about it, it was his. He knew in his gut that it was a bad idea for the children to get attached to someone so quickly, especially a woman like Fran Fine. A woman who's life is probably one big party after another, never stopping in one place for too long. This is why he hesitated when she offered her number. Feeling a slight chill, he got up to shut the doors in his office. Looking out to the crisp fall afternoon, he couldn't help the slight disappointing feeling he had. He could havesworn that night he felt a small bit of the old spark that he had lost so long ago and,for the first time in so long, hefelt alive. It was just a fluke, he was condemned to this life of loneliness and solitude, and he had to somehow learn to accept and deal with it.

Exhausted from a long day of work, he decided to retire to his bedroom. On his way up the stairs he heard the phone ring, and turned quickly to gesture for Niles to hold his calls.

"Yes, Sheffield Residence, just a moment please, I'll see if he is in." Niles saw his boss's request, but decided to take a chance on this one considering the circumstances.

Max rolled his eyes while rubbing his temple he was really in no mood to talk to anyone.

"Sir, there is a young lady on the phone, and says her name is Fran Fine." Niles instantly saw a dramatic change in Max's face. He had overheard the children going on about her since the party and, from what he heard, this was quite a woman.

Maxwell slowly walked over to the phone, not knowing why he had suddenly become so nervous. "Hello yes, Miss Fine, what a pleasure to hear from you" he just hoped she couldn't hear the slight tremor in his voice.

Fran smiled, on the other end, thinking what she had to do to get him to call her Fran. "Yes, hello there, Maxwell, I just had some free time and got to thinking about the kids and everything, you know, well, you too." Oy, why did I say that?

Max was caught off guard by her answer. Did she just say she was thinking about him?

"Yes, well, your name has come up a few times here, as well, Miss Fine." He turned seeing Niles gawking at him, hanging on his every word, he decided to take it into his office.

"Miss Fine, hold on I'm going to take the phone in my office, it's a bit more private."

Fran had to hold back the sigh, he's going into another room? What can we possibly talk about he doesn't want anyone else to hear. Down,Fran,stop jumping to conclusions, she scolded herself mentally.

Once in his office Max took a deep breath and picked up his phone, waiting a bit to hear the other line close. He had no idea why he was being so secretive it wasn't as though he and Miss Fine were involved.

"Hello, Miss Fine, so sorry about that… so to what do I owe the pleasure?"

"Well, I was wondering if the kids had some free time I would love to see them again, if that's okay?" she hoped he wouldn't think she was being annoying by insisting to see the kids.

Max couldn't believe she was truly interested in seeing his kids again. She got nothing out of it,yet she still sounded genuinely interested.

"Well,Miss Fine,I don't know what your schedule is like, I'm sure it's full but, if you'd like, we can set something up this coming weekend. How does that sound?" He paused as she checked her date book and he had to admit he was more than a glad when she agreed to meet on Saturday.

"Thanks so much for letting me spend time with the children, I just felt such a connection to them from the first time we met you know the feeling?"

"Yes,I do,Miss Fine," he said in a softer voice than he had intended.

Fran felt flushed. She thought she could take his answer as an innuendo but she refused to make assumptions.

"Well, I guess I will see you then,besure to tell the kids I said hello, good bye Maxwell,"

"See you then, and thank you for calling, good day Miss Fine," and he hung up, not sure if he had made a mistake by accepting.

Fran felt her stomach doing flip flops, and she couldn't fight it anymore she knew she liked this man but the thought of getting hurt again terrified her.

Meanwhile, Max was coming to terms with his own revelation. He was smitten with a woman he had only met once. And the thought of it not only petrified him, but it filled him with guilt that the only other woman who had made him feel this way, and so quickly, was Sarah. He swore to never feel it again for anyone else. But he just couldn't ignore the fact that she did something to him, everything about her was intoxicating and he found himself yearning to see her more than a few times since that night they met. Hopefully, this encounter wouldn't be so difficult he had to go through with it for the children. She made them happy for, some reason, and he would do anything to see them smile again.

"Fran, there is someone on the phone for you she says her name is Joyce." Val said to Fran, who had been lying on the couch for almost an hour, just staring dreamingly at the ceiling.

"Fran, Fran…" Val insisted.

Oh, sorry, what Val?" she said finally coming out of it "There is a lady named Joyce on the phone for you," she answered

"Joyce, I only know that name from" she stopped hoping it wasn't from who she thought it was. "Hello, this is Fran Fine,"

"Hello, Fran, do you remember me I'm Fred's secretary" the lady spoke with more familiarity than she should have.

"Yes, of course, and to what do I owe the pleasure,Joyce," she said rolling her eyes knowing what was coming.

"Well, I'm calling you because, as you probably know, the company is interested in using you for a new campaign and you are invited to a business brunch at which time, you can tell them whether or not you're interested, so what do you say can I put you down on the list?'

Fran was fed up with these people she had made it perfectly clear that she had no intention of working with them and yet they insisted. "I'll tell you what why don't you talk to my assistant and she can tell you if I have any free time on my schedule. Thanks for calling goodbye," Fran said before handing the phone over to Val. She didn't want to ruin her good mood listeningto this.

"Yes, I'm Fran's assistant, let me check her book, hmm it seems this Saturday is open, okayI guess that will work, she will see you then, thank you." Val wondered why Fran had let her set up an appointment with Fred's company, but she figured it must be that she was over it.

"Dad this is so awesome I can't believe Fran is coming to see us, I knew she didn't forget about us," Maggie said beaming after hearing the news from theirfather.

"My friends will never believe the hot new model is coming here just to see me" Brighton added.

"She's here for me too," Gracie said not wanting to be excluded.

Max loved what he saw in them when they spoke about Fran, they seemed so happy but he couldn't help worrying what would happen if or when he should say, Fran disappeared. He knew the nomadic lives these models had and the excitement he saw in them now would surely turn to sorrow once she left.

"Yes children, we'll see her on Saturday morning, she agreed to spend the day with you. You just make sure to let Miss Fine know how gracious it is for her to give up her time like this" Max finally spoke.

"Don't worry, dad, we'll be really good, this is the coolest thing that has happened to us in a while, we won't take it for granted, come on you guys let'sgo upstairs now, we have a lot of homework, thanks dad!" They each gave Max a hug and headed upstairs to their rooms.

The days of the week flew by, and Saturday was upon them before they knew it. The kids were eagerly eating their breakfast excited about Fran's arrival.

"So dad, what time will she be here I can't wait to see her again," Maggie said trying not to look at CC who had, unfortunately, insisted on joining them for breakfast.

"Um, I'm not sure, honey, she said she would be by sometime before lunch," Max responded noticing CC's puzzled look.

"Who is this"she"that will be joining you before lunch, anyone I know?" CC asked trying her hardest not to sound like a demanding, jealous wife.

"Miss Fran Fine, CC, you know the model from the event. She bondedquitenicely with the kids that night and asked to see them again, so I arranged for them to spend the day together today."

"What, you are just going to let a perfect stranger take your precious children out. That is so out of character for you, Maxwell, I really don't thinkit iswise, I mean what do you really know about this woman other than she can get away with wearing those scandalous outfits and is probably responsible for more than one home breaking up," CC spatout. She couldn't believe he would trust this floozy with his children.

"Now, CC, you don't know her anymore than I so I don't know why you would be so quick to speak so poorly of her. Besides, I'm aware of the implications of letting the children go alone with a person I'm not too familiar with, so that's why I'm going along with them." Max replied sternly.

"Cool, dad, this is going to be a blast!" Brighton shouted out.

"Maxwell, I can't believe you are actually going to spend your day with this woman. She is not of our stature and it's obvious she is after you for publicity or a cheap thrill. I know her kind." CC added angrily.

"This is not open for discussion, now let's just drop it," Maxwell finally put his foot down.

CC just huffed and looked down at the morning paper. Looking at the society column she saw something that caused her to suddenly smile from ear to ear.

"Oh, Maxwell, I see you are in for a true disappointment, I knew that woman couldn't be trusted." she said starting to read the article that caught her attention. "It says here, big society brunch to be held today, where all the top advertisement companies will do their best to try and land the hottest new model to hit the industry in years, Fran Fine will, once again, be the center of attention at this event and will probably come out of this with a hearty new contract," CC ended pleased with the expression she got out of the kids and Maxwell as they listened to the article.

"Daddy,how can she be at that thing and with us at the same time?" Gracie asked confused.

"Wake up, shrimp, we're being stood up, she promised to come and she changed her mind to go to that big lunch thing, where they'll make her richer and even more famous," Brighton said sinking into his chair.

"Now, children, I'm sure there is an explanation for this" Max said trying to hold back his own anger. He knew it had been a bad idea to get the children involved in all this, and now what he feared most was happening they were being let down.

"Yeah, there is, we were stupid to think a big important woman like Fran would actually want to spend time with us. " Maggie said getting up to leave.

The other two children went after her, and Max got up to follow his children not before giving CC a look.

CC sat for a second then decided to take advantage of the situation and followed them all out to the living room.

"Kids, don't get upset we can still go out and have a good time together, nothing much has changed don't worry," Maxwell hated to see them this way.

"Yes, children, I volunteer to accompany you all to the museum what do you say?" CC steeped in.

"No thanks," Brighton answered coldly.

Then they all heard the bell ring and watched as Niles opened the door to greet whoever was on the other side.

"Hello there, I'm Fran Fine, I'm looking for Maxwell Sheffield, is this the right place?" Fran asked looking into Nile's beautiful blue eyes that very appreciatively admired her.

"Yes, won't you come in, I'm Niles the butler, we've been expecting you," Niles said thinking how the few pictures he had seen in the papers did her no justice. She was lovelier in person.

Gracie was the first to run and meet Fran with a big hug that almost knocked Fran over.

"Hello there, angel, it's great to see you again," she said gracefully accepting the affection.

Maggie and Brighton just watched confused at the fact that she was actually there.

"Fran, we thought you weren't coming?" Maggie finally spoke.

"Yeah, what's the deal?" Brighton added.

"Whatever gave you that idea? I spoke to your father and told him I would be over after breakfast and, well, here I am." Fran said coming closer to the other two children.

"But, the paper said you were going to be at a big brunch thing today, we thought you were dumping us for it," Brighton said so happy that he was wrong about all the things he was just thinking about her.

"No, sweetie, I would never do that to you, what happened was my assistant didn't know about our plans and accidentally made those plans with that advertisement company, I just found out about it and, of course, I called and cancelled. I wouldn't miss this for the world. That article was probably printed before I cancelled." Fran said, finally catching the person who she had not been able to stop thinking about all week.

Maxwell just watched as she came closer to him. He had been so angry at himself and her just a few seconds ago. He was just as disappointed as the kids when CC read that article. The truth was he had been looking forward tothisday all week, and found himself thinking about her constantly. Now here she was. She was a vision. She wore a red vest like top that accentuated her bosom just right and the fitted black mini skirt hugged her shapely hips so perfectly Max couldn't help but stare a little.

"Hi there Maxwell,it'sreally great to see you again" she said reaching over to take his hand.

"Likewise, Miss Fine, so glad to see you could make it," he said taking her hand gratefully feeling the softness of her skin.

"Hello there, I'm CC Babcock, Maxwell's business partner and closest friend." CC interrupted the moment that they were obviously sharing through that one simple hand shake.

Fran eyed her, "Yes, I remember you from the party,it's niceto see you again will you be joining us today?"

"Well, actually…" CC started.

"No, unfortunately, she has some business to attend to and won't be able to join us" Max stated before she finished.

"Maxwell!" CC exclaimed. She decided to take it easy when she saw the look Max gave her.

Fran turned to him again and smiled "So sorry to hear that, but I'm happy to see you will be joining me and the kids."

"Well, Miss Fine, I can't let my children go out alone with a stranger," as he paused he noticed her become a bit uneasy by his comment and continued,

"no matter how beautiful and charming they may be."

Fran just looked at him, and took in the compliment "Point very well taken, Maxwell." She smiled and walked over to the children again.

"Okay, now, where do you all want to go, I can't wait to go out and be around normal people and not in front of cameras, paparazzi and all that mishegas."

"Mishe what?" Brighton asked confused.

"Sorry, honey, I forget not everyone understands my Yiddish, I'll try to keep it under control, now we should get going let's not waste time," she said as they reached for their coats.

It was nice meeting you Niles, hope to see you again" she said smiling and giving Niles her hand.

"It was truly my pleasure, and I hope to see you as well," Niles smiled to himself he had a feeling he would soon.

"CC, I will have my phone on if you need anything," Maxwell added putting on his coat.

"Yes, Maxwell, whatever you say" she said giving Fran a defiant look, which Fran returned with a smile.

Closing the door behind them as they all left, Niles turned just in time to see the somber expression on CC's face and, surprisingly, it didn't cause him the usual pleasure it normally did. The truth was, he felt empathetic towards her. He knew what it felt like to pine over someone you knew you had no chance with.

The day couldn't have been more perfect if they tried. They did everything from shopping to movies. The children took to Fran as though they had known her all their lives and she was enjoying them immensely. Fran couldn't remember the last time she was in a mall or a theater like that just light,carefree,fun with people she enjoyed and who seemed to enjoy her company sincerely.That was just what Max was doing he was truly enjoying her company. He took in and indulged in the simplicity of spending time with his children in such a relaxed atmosphere and, in the instances when they would sit down to eat, she would take her place next to him. For moments at a time, Max would relive and remember what it was like to be a complete family where everything was perfect.

"Well, the kids seem to be having a wonderful time today and so am I, I have to say." Fran said as she and Max sat down at a park bench, watching the kids run off for some ice cream.

"Indeed Miss Fine, it's been a delightful day, I don't think I've seen them this happy in a long time," Max trailed off looking at his children from a distance.

Fran watched as he drifted off into his own thoughts. She noticed the regretful way in which he always spoke about the kids.

"You know, I think you're doing a terrific job with the kids, I mean not every guy can take over after such a tragedy like you did." Fran interrupted his thoughts and placed her hand on his shoulder.

Max looked directly in her eyes, they seemed to draw him in like a whirl wind. He just couldn't understand what it was about her that made him so intrigued. She sure wasn't like anyone he had ever been attracted to, but yet he was sure this was one of, if not the strongest, instant holds he had ever felt for anyone. The sincerity in her eyes as she spoke to him or the children he was sure he hadn't seen in anyone since Sarah died. He wasn't sure which was more appealing to him, her exuberant physical beauty or the splendid person she appeared to be on the inside.

"Thank you, Miss Fine, that's very gracious of you to say but, unfortunately, it is one merit I cannot take credit for. The truth is when my wife died I was a wreck and, quite frankly, had no clue in what direction to go with the children. They were left practically on their own and a lot of the credit for their being so wonderful goes to their own strong character and capacity to withstand such a blow," he paused, " they did a lot better than me I'll tell you that much." He began to get choked up at the words and he looked away making sure she didn't catch all the emotion the topic caused him. "Oh, of course, there is Niles, who has been much more than a butler to me and the kids all these years. But enough about that I don't want to bore you with all my sob stories," he said finally looking at her again.

"Bore me? Don't be ridiculous. You know, Maxwell, I'm so glad I met you guys, I have been through hell and back in my life and, I must admit, I got caught up in all my problems. Actually, I convinced myself into thinking no one could possibly have been through anything worse than the heartache I endured. But then, here you are you have been through far worse and are still going strong. You know, I really don't think you should be cutting yourself short as far as the children. I know countless men in your social status that have their kids and wives and could care less about how they feel or what they want, as long as their bank account keeps fattening up they are fine." She gave him a bright smile.

"Really,Miss Fine,you flatter me with your kind words, and I humbly accept them," he said returning the smile. I must admit,however, I am a bit curious to know what types of heartaches a woman with all your… qualities," he coughed sheepishly, "has endured." Noticing the change in her demeanor he thought maybe he had crossed a personal barrier and attempted to retract.

"Forgive me, I didn't mean to intrude in your personal affairs."

"No, no Maxwell, it's okay. After all,you just shared a very intimate part of your life with meit'sonly fair for me to return the vote of confidence," she reassured him. "It's quite complicated,but here goes." She slowly began to tell him all about what had transcended in her life up to then.

Max listened intently to her story. She spoke of a love that she seemed to hold dearly. All he could think, as he noticed where the story was headed, was how could anyone exchange such a love for money. Thinking back to his own past,he wouldn't have traded Sarah for all the money in the world. This guy had it all, a progressive, but sure success in his career, and a woman who most men would give their right arm to spend just one night with and he had given it all up to get rich quick. All Max could do was to listen and wonder how?

"So that's my sob story, pretty pathetic huh, I am considering that the idiot ruined me for any other type of real relationship I might want to pursue and,meanwhile,he is happily married with his Barbie at his side." Fran said awkwardly looking away, not believing she had just shared this with a man she barely knew.

"I think it is pathetic. In fact, Miss Fine, I believe this fellow you speak of is truly pity worthy." Max paused and took her chin in his hands making her look at him.

"He could be with you right now and he gave it up. But the bloke's loss is our gain."

Fran blushed a bit at his flattery. Any kind of appreciation from him sent her head spinning,and she was sure now she recognized those lost and forgotten feelings she had as he gently stroked her face.

"Oh, thank you Maxwell, that's really sweet of you to say," she spoke a bit hoarsely.

"Please don't thank me its absolutely true, Miss Fine, me and the children would have missed out on this wonderful day, so I suppose everything happens for a reason."

"You know, if you keep saying that I'm going to believe it and come around more often," she added.

"We should only be so lucky, Miss Fine." Max responded letting his face come closer to hers.

"Hey dad," Max heard at a distance and abruptly pulled away realizing what was about to happen.

The kids had been watching them from afar and decided to let them talk. They could only hope that their dad would fall for Fran it would be great having a mom like her.

"Um, yes, all done with the ice cream children?" he asked rather clumsily trying to recover from the close encounter.

"Yeah, all done, so what's next?" Brighton asked looking at Fran who seemed to be in a daze.

"Oh, I'm sorry sweetie, but I'm afraid I have to be getting back now, I probably have,like,80 people waiting for me, they hate it when I attempt to have a life." Fran said finally recovering with the sound of Brighton's voice.

"No, Fran,stay with us, please," Gracie said gripping on to Fran's hips.

"Now,Grace,honey, Miss Fine has been gracious enough, she spent the whole day with us, now she has to leave," Max said taking his youngest into his arms.

"Yeah,honey, I promise we'll do it again soon,okay?" She said seeing all the disappointed faces.

"Okay, Fran, but please don't forget about us?" Maggie asked hugging Fran tenderly.

"Of course not, after the wonderful day we had today I couldn't forget you if I tried." She said taking the two oldest in at the same time.

"So I'll catch a cab home and I promise to get in touch with you all soon," They were all exiting the park now approaching Max's limo.

"Miss Fine please let me take you home it's the least we could do" Max gestured for her to get in after the children.

"No reallyit'sout of your way and not necessary," Fran insisted.

"Nonsense,it will be our pleasure, please," he pleaded with his eyes as well as verbally.

Fran just couldn't resist that look. "Okay,thank you,Maxwell," she said before she stepped into the cheering limo, where the kids awaited excitedly.

Fran gave the limo driver her address and in no time they were at her apartment building.

"Children wait here while I see Miss Fine to her door," Max said after they all gave each other their goodbyes.

"Sure thing, dad," Brighton answered giving Max a devilish wink.

"Brighton," Max grunted at his son's immatureness.

Fran laughed to herself not having missed the exchange between father and son. As she pulled out her key,when they reached her door,she turned to him.

"Thanks for seeing me up, it was very gallant of you," Fran had to fight the overwhelming attraction she was feeling for him,andthe last thing she wanted was to come off too pushy.

"My pleasure and I just wanted to thank you again for today it was truly a delight to spend the day with you, Miss Fine." Max said in almost a whisper.

"No big deal, Maxwell, I had such a great time too, I should be thanking you," Fran added afraid he would notice how nervous his proximity was making her.

"But it is a big deal, Miss Fine. You cancelled a big event just to spend a day with us, and I don't know many people who would do that, letaloneany supermodels. I really don't know how to repay you." Max was now coming even closer to her and Fran couldn't avoid his eyes any more.

"Tell you what, Max, call me Fran and we'll call it even," she said faintly.

Max could only do what he had wanted to do and fought since the moment he first laid eyes on her. Not knowing if it was right or wrong, he just bent forward and gently let his lips brush across hers causing them to shiver. He was barely touching them yet he thought he had never felt anything sweeter. The soft gesture slowly turned into more, as he pushed against her lips a bit harder and when she pulled back slightly to moisten her lips with her tongue, he felt himself go over the edge. His lips sought hers for what had now become a passionate kiss. They were both completely lost in the moment. As his tongue leaped into her mouth seeking hers she thought, if he suddenly stopped she would surely die. After what had to be several minutes of indulging in each other,they finally pulled apart.

Max was breathless,and it took a minute for him to regain all consciousness. He couldn't believe he had just kissed her that way. It wasn't his intention to become that intimate, but he knew he couldn't have stopped,no matter how much his head warned him to. She had just been so irresistible. How could he deny himself the bliss of tasting her, of feeling her close to him?He suddenly feared this might become too awkward and would cause her to hesitate in contacting him or the kids again.

"Max, I… well, wow, is all I can say" Fran finally spoke

"I'm dreadfully sorry I did not mean for that to happen, please forgive me. Um, take care of yourself goodbye." Max said quickly heading down the hall, leaving Fran utterly confused.

"Wait,Max!" she tried but he was gone. She couldn't understand what happened, it all seemed to be going well and she didn't get why he had reacted that way to a kissHEinitiated. Fran sighed heavily as she entered her apartment.

"Fran, where have you been? Do you know how many backed up appointments you have, not to mention the society brunch you cancelled without telling me or your manager who,by the way,is really pissed that you snuffed these really important offers," noticing her friend hadn't heard a word, Val stopped.

"Hello Fran, what's wrong, you gonna tell me where you'vebeen?"

"Val, I just had the best day I've had in years everything was going perfect, the kids and I bonded, had fun. Me and Max were getting along great. We shared stories about our lives and then…" she paused remembering their encounter in the hall, "Val, he kissed me, and oh what a kiss, I tell you I felt alive again." Fran said letting her voice trail off sadly.

"Sweetie, that's great, so why do you mention the kiss like it was a bad thing?" Val asked not getting it.

"Oh, Val, he just pulled back and left me there, feeling like the biggest desperate fool ever." Fran added falling into the couch.

"Honey, don't say that maybe he's just confused, you know that happens a lot with widows, he might feel guilty,"

"Mmm, maybe I guess,but with my luck he probably realized getting close to me was a mistake."

"I hope not, Frannie, you seem really into this guy, I'm sure you will be fine. But,Fran,you really have to figure out what you are going to do with your career, you don't seem to really care lately," Val saw Fran slowly becoming less and less interested in something that took her so long and so much work to build.

"I know, Val, but there just isn't any project that has dazzled me enough to make a commitment with. I don't know, I guess I'm just losing focus, I don't know what I want anymore. I think I took up modeling for the wrong reasons to begin with."

"Well, Fran, John wants to talk to you tomorrow so you better decide soon."

"Yes,Val,I will." Fran had no idea what to do about her career or life,for that matter, and nothing seemed to fill the void she felt, well nothing until now. Good job, Fran, you managed to spoil the one thing that made you content in years, why couldn't you just pull back from that kiss like a lady and not seem so hard up to be with him, she thought to herself. Now, she couldn't see herself ever calling him again, she was just too embarrassed. The thought of not hearing from him again made her uneasy, she hated that she had just made a big mistake. The mistake was letting him in her heart. She didn't know how, but she had let him in and now it was too late.

"Maxwell, you are totally spaced out today, what on earth is the matter?" CC grew more irritated by the minute. He was paying her, nor their work, any mind and she knew it had something to do with his outing with Fran Fine.

"CC,I'm sorry,my head just isn't in it today, I have some things on my mind," he answered absently.

"Obviously, but if you're going to be like that then I might as well go home." She said, gathering her things to workonfrom her house, she just couldn't take it anymore.

"CC, that will not be necessary but if you feel you have to then, by all means go ahead," Max was really in no mood for an argument.

"See you tomorrow then!" She then stormed out of his office

Maxwell barely heard the door close before he was back to his thoughts. What must she be thinking of him now that he was just like one of those cads that jumped at the first chance to sleep with her?God,the last thing he wanted was for her to have a bad impression of him. All the joy she brought to his kids yesterday was priceless, and how did he thank her? By shamelessly coming on to her. But how could a man resist those lips, that scent, she was brilliant. All the thoughts and feelings he had towards her, after meeting her for the first time, were now multiplied and were at a dangerous level. The truth was what she made him feel frightened and,yet,excited him at the same time. He couldn't remember the last time he was so turned on by a woman. Could he really just stay away from her now? Maxwell just rubbed his lobe in frustration, and he knew he didn't want to, but how could he talk to her now after the way he acted. He thought about how he left her stranded after their kiss. That kiss that had made the floor move and that didn't allow him to sleep for more than an hour last night. He could still feel her lips on his own and the alluring scent of her body still lingered in his mind like an intoxicating drug. He sat back defeated not knowing what his next move would be. Perhaps, a stroll would help me clear my head, he thought.

"Niles, I'm going out for a while call me if you need anything." He buzzed Niles before heading out of his office and towards the front door.

"Fran, I don't know what you needed to do yesterday that you felt was more important than meeting with companies all willing to sign youonfor tons of money." Fran just listened as her manager gave her all the usual 'Fran,youaresabotaging your career speech.' She was tired with all the crap that she had to put up with from her nagging manager, publicists, reporters… the list went on and on.

"I had something a lot more interesting to attend, so I cancelled was that such a crime?" She spat out.

"Yes, it was darling, because now we have reporters all over you writing about how snobby you are for snuffing all those potential backers. Frannie, I don't know what is going on with you, but it's obvious you have a lot going on and can't seem to get it together. Luckily, I am here for you, as usual, and I managed to get the top of the line to come see you here today." Fran frowned not quite getting what he meant

"What are you talking about John?"She asked inquisitively.

"I mean that Papa Myers, himself, you know that name Myers, yes,the top advertisement company out there, has agreed to send his best man over here to get you to sign with them for their new add campaign. It wasn't easy after what you pulled yesterday,but I managed to get him to agree to a meeting today, so get ready he should be here any minute." John finished while fussingwith Fran's hair.

"What? John,I can't believe you would do that without consulting me first, I don't want to do business with them, and I don't appreciate you speaking for me that way!" Fran was livid and couldn't believe who was now on his way over to her house thanks to her loser agent.

"Now, Fran, this will be a great opportunity for you doll, have I ever steered you wrong. Besides, at this point, you are not in much of a position to choose, you have made a bit of a bad rap for yourself and now you have to deal,honey."

"I can't believe this crap I'm hearing!" Fran was on the brink of losing it when she heard the door bell and shot her agent a dirty look thinking who it was.

"Hello Fran, how are you, its great to see you again." Fred said with a bright smile on his face.

"Hey Fred, uh hum, come in. You know my great agent, John. Sit down can I get you something to drink?" She asked hoping he would take her snide attitudeandit would scare him off.

"Yes, thanks, I'll take a coke if you have any" he watched as she walked over to the kitchen and then came back with his drink. "You have a great place here, Fran, everything looks just like I thought it would." Trying his best to get her to look at him "remember all the plans we had once, you said when we had our own mansion you would decorate the whole thing by yourself." He looked down reminiscing on how things used to be " you were always to enthusiastic about everything in those days, I always knew anything you put your mind to you would be great at, I am seeing the results of that today"

"Really Fred, well you certainly proved that when you left me for Barbie," she said with a small sarcastic smile.

"Fran I was such a fool back then, she just came at the wrong time or maybe at the right time to make me go through with the biggest mistake of my life. Fran when she came into my life I was feeling so insecure about my life. I needed so desperately to get out of Flushing and make a better life for us. You always deserved so much more than you had Fran. Things were never supposed to be this way, I had no intention of becoming involved with her but one thing led to another, she became almost obsessed with me and well I let my damn greed get in the way of our love. Frannie you got to know I loved you, I still do." He paused searching for a reaction.

"Fred let me set this straight; you wanted to make a better life for me so you ran off and married a rich woman on our own wedding day." She laughed softly " You know Fred I've heard some crap in my day but that took the cake. Look if you're saying all this to relieve your conscience there is no need I forgave you a long time ago and the truth is I say, thank god that I'm completely over it.. you. Really Fred I wish you all the best but just not with me so…"

"Frannie please don't say that, say you hate me, you want to kill me, anything, but not that you are over me, I refuse to believe you gave up on us. A lot for time has passed and believe it or not being married to someone you don't love is worse than what I did to you. Even all that could not shake the immense love I have for you, that we had for so many years, I know you must have some of it in you." Fred's eyes pleaded.

"I am truly sorry Fred but like I said I've made peace with that part of my life. You want to know something a little while back I attempted to dig up some of those feelings I had for you back then and I realized that they weren't what I thought they were. I did care for you Fred but I comparison to stronger feelings that I…" she stopped herself before she revealed too much about her current feelings "well lets just say I had no idea what real emotions were back then. I'm sorry Fred I have no intention of hurting you that's why I can't do business with you "

"Is it someone else Fran?" he spoke after almost a minute of letting her words sink in

"What?" she wasn't expecting the question. "No Fred you're missing the point its not about that, just understand that we can't be around each other anymore it's just too awkward."

"Please Fran I need to know if you have feelings for someone else" he insisted.

Max stopped at the door and thought about what he was doing back there. He just needed a walk, the air in his office was so tense he felt he could suffocate in it. Before he knew it there he was at her building. He stared up at her home, he wondered what she had done to get him so worked up. All he had on his mind since they last saw each other was that kiss. The situation got completely out of line that day, he was just supposed to walk her up to her door thank her for a wonderful day and be on his way, but having her so close and then momentarily feeling the touch of her lips drove him mad. He was having an internal love-hate battle with his own feelings. He hated that she had the ability to make him lose his head and act in a manner he would never act under normal circumstances but at the same time it was this very thing that pulled him to her like a magnet. Her friend who he had met at the door downstairs insisted she would be thrilled if he went up to say hello. So against all the warning signals coming from his brain there he was at her door hesitating to knock.

Fran sighed she was getting no where with Fred. He was not getting it, all she wanted to do was forget about that part of her life and move on completely.

"Fred look that's none of your business, and I really think you should get going now we have nothing else to discuss," Fran said getting him up and leading his towards the door.

"Fran please wait, you're right that's not my business, I really don't want to do anything to push you away completely. I understand if you don't want to see me socially but at least listen to my business offer. There is a huge conference in about a week that you should go to its in Chicago there you can listen to what our company has to offer and then you can decide if you want to take it or leave it. Please Fran" As they reached the door Fran gave him a defeated look.

"I'll talk it over with John and we'll see what happens ok" when she opened the door for him to leave, the person on the other side startled them both.

"Max? What are you doing here… I mean it's so great to see you again," she was stuttering as if she had just gotten caught cheating by her jealous husband coming home from work.

"I know you don't I; you're Sheffield right, Fred Turner we met at the Gala where Fran was introduced," he said extending his hand to Max, but at the same time puzzled as to why he was visiting her at home.

"Yes I remember it's a pleasure. I see you seem to be in the middle of something Miss Fine so I'll see you another time," Max stated not being able to define the feeling he was getting from finding this man with her.

"No, no Max Fred was just here for some business but he was just on his way out," she quickly replied not wanting him to even think of leaving, "Thank you Fred my agent will get back to you with an answer ok, good seeing you, goodbye." She almost pushed him out the door and he turned to her.

"Before I go Fran just one more thing," Fred added

Fran sighed softly 'oy this man' she thought to herself "Max why don't you just come on in make yourself at home and I'll be right with you" she gestured for Max to step in and he did.

"It was a pleasure seeing you again" he told Fred before heading towards Fran's living room.

"Fran I don't know if this guy has anything to do with what we spoke of just now but remember no one could ever love you more than I do" Coming closer to Fran Fred had a hard time hiding his jealousy

"I hope for my sake that's not true, goodbye Fred," she said before shutting her door.

She made it to her living room and found Max looking at her family portraits.

"You have a lovely and large family Miss Fine." He said without turning to look at her.

"Thanks, they can be great but they can be a pain too believe me. So do you want anything drink, eat.." she was trying her best not to show her enthusiasm. She was thrilled he had come to see her. After the way he left that day when they kissed she wasn't sure if she would ever see him again.

"Miss Fine I'm sorry to intrude this way, I didn't mean to interrupt anything, to be honest I am not sure what I am doing here,"

"I'm really glad you did come Max I really enjoy your company and you didn't interrupt anything believe me," Fran said as she flashed Max one of those smiles that made him lose it. "You must think I'm a nut here I am in the middle of the afternoon still in sweats and tank top, its usually not like this but I've had a busy morning."

Max had definitely noticed and loved this casual side of her, and was feasting on the fact that she was even more beautiful in this natural state than with all the glamour. He felt he was getting a glimpse of her intimacy, something some very lucky man would be able to enjoy fully.

"Um Miss Fine would you care to join me for lunch, it's a lovely day it would be a shame to spend it cooped up in the house, don't you think," what was he doing he thought, this wasn't what he had decided to do in regards to her.

Again Fran had to suppress her excitement this seemed to be going unexpectedly well, "I would love to Max, just give me like twenty minutes to take a shower and throw something on ok?" she asked making her way to her bathroom

"Yes of course by all means take your time" Max responded struggling to suppress some feelings of his own hearing her mention taking a shower. "Control yourself man, you are an adult and its not like you've never met a beautiful woman before." He chastised himself out loud.

"What was that Max" he heard Fran scream from the other room

"Nothing Miss Fine forgive me," He quickly answered not realizing how loudly he had spoken.

She giggled to herself, she knew she was having an effect on him and had to control herself to not run straight to him and show him the effect he was having on her. But no she would do things right and take things at his pace. She wasn't going to mess up the best thing that had happened to her in years.

Fran was dressed and ready in record time and they went off to lunch, each one hoping the other wouldn't notice how the other was feeling. After a while of attempting to break the ice things softened up between them. They talked for hours and to someone who didn't know better they were two people who had been together for years. The chemistry between them beamed and was hard to ignore.

After another great afternoon together Fran was sorry she hadn't met him sooner. So many times she had yearned to meet a guy who listened and treated her the way he was doing. She loved the way he tripped over making sure she was comfortable, she could tell when it came to women this was a man who could be possessive and at the same time supportive and gentle enough to let you run with your own ideas. Every so often the fear that this was too good to be true crept into Fran's gut but she just pushed it aside not wanting anything to ruin the moment.

The cab ride back to her apartment seemed eternal. Neither knew what to talk about. The truth of the matter was they were both anticipating what would happen once it was time to say goodbye.

"Tell me Miss Fine you enjoy having an office at home?" Max asked and immediately felt a bit sheepish. He had intended the question to come across as a mere conversation starter but he feared it would be obvious the question had more depth than that.

Fran looked at him quizzically "Huh? What do you mean Max?" she wasn't sure but she thought she had an idea where this was heading.

"I just assumed; you were doing business at home and its not like most people to do that, unless they have an office at home, especially in the morning" Max knew she had caught on and thought about changing the topic but the truth was he had to know why Fred was there with her that morning.

"Well Max I don't usually do that but you see Fred is not just any business man." She hesitated but then decided to continue, she didn't want to hide anything that might jeopardize any chance she had with him. "Max the truth is Fred is the guy that left me when I was younger, the one I spoke to you about. And yes my agent thinks it would be a good idea to work for his company but I turned him down, I can't bear to look at him anymore"

"I can understand it's probably hard for you, I mean if you loved him like you mentioned those feelings must just surface every time you see him" he turned his face away from her so she couldn't see the sudden disappointment he felt to know the man that was so important in her past was apparently back in her life.

Before Fran could respond the cab came to a stop in front of her building.

"This is me, Max I had the best time today, I haven't had this much fun since… well since I was out with you and the kids," she said with a small laugh.

"My pleasure Miss Fine, take care and thank you for accompanying me to lunch."

"Um will you come up for a second, maybe have some coffee or something" she hoped the conversation hadn't caused him to hold back again.

Max thought about it for a second he didn't see the use in coming up after what he had just heard but the imploring look she was giving him finally persuaded him,

"Yes thank you, I would love to," she gave him the kind of smile a little girl gives her parents when they agree to go to the toy store.

"Ok great! Let's go then," they headed up to her place and Fran immediately went to get the coffee started. "Max do you like a lot of sugar or none?" she asked bringing back a tray with coffee and some cookies.

"I take it black thank you," he said picking up his cup

"So where were we," situating herself in a spot right next to him that made all of Max's senses suddenly very alert. Somehow going up for coffee didn't seem like such a wise decision on his part.

"When?" he said nonchalantly trying to appear oblivious to the topic they were previously discussing,

"Max you know I think you should know that there is nothing going on between me and Fred, in fact today right when you arrived I told him I couldn't see him anymore, but not because I still love him its mainly because I know he is stuck on the idea that maybe one day he and I may go back to the way things were but its obvious that can't happen ever again. Too many things are keeping us apart now. For starters he is a married man and well now I…." she stopped herself.

"You what Fran?" he almost whispered coming closer to her.

"You called me Fran" she whispered back with a slight tremble in her voice, at the feel of his breath moistening her lips. Their lips were as close as they could be without actually touching. Max felt her shiver a bit as their lips finally met and he took her in his arms with complete abandon. As the kiss deepened Fran adjusted herself to accommodate him, before long Max was fully on top of her. His lips finally released hers only to continue a trail of kisses on her neckline making Fran moan with pleasure.

"Oh Fran your so soft," his voice was almost unfamiliar with passion. Max was having such a hard time controlling all the feelings he thought were long gone inside of him. No other woman had ever turned him on the way Fran was doing. There was just something about her that drove him to the point of madness. And he thought he would never be able to get enough of her.

"Max", she tried but fumbled as she felt his hands slowly begin to roam her body, "Max listen," she said finally bringing his face up to hers. "I wanted to let you know what the other thing keeping me away from Fred was," kissing him tenderly first she looked in his eyes and saw that he understood and needed no words but she wanted to anyway, "It's you Max, meeting you killed any kind of feelings for Fred I may have been holding on to," that was the last she was able to say before he covered her with uncontrollable kisses, her confession had only served to push him deeper over the edge. She had no idea what hearing this caused inside him and now all hopes Max had of controlling himself were long gone. After several minutes of intense kissing, Fran could tell he was becoming restless for more. His insistent arousal was brushing up against her thigh and she thought if he took her in the next second it wouldn't be soon enough.

"Max lets go in my bedroom," she managed to get out between kisses

After about a minute he finally conceded to let her up encouraging her to lead the way. Once there Fran shut the door behind her and watched as he awaited her arrival to her bed where he had quickly made his way to.

She walked over to the corner of the bed where he sat eagerly, she saw nothing but desire in his eyes and it turned her on beyond belief to see this man yearning for her that way.

His fingers were now encircling her hips as he sensuously lifted her top enough to reveal her milky soft midsection. He became lost in the feel of her silky skin teasing his lips as he softly kissed and licked every inch of bare skin he could find. Longing for more he gently pulled her over onto the bed, laying her down.

Fran looked up to the man now laying on her and she couldn't believe how right it felt to be in his arms. She had dated a lot since her last real relationship and not once had she felt the need to take it that far with anyone. All her dates ended once they brought her home. Spending the night with someone was never even an option, and here she was now with a man she theoretically just met and yet she felt nothing could be more right. All her apprehensions were lifted as their lovemaking became more intense. All those years with Fred and then even with Danny where she was sure she knew what love was seemed like mere child's play compared to what she was currently experiencing with Max. He took his time to attentively explore and discover each and every part of her body. Every caress brought her to such heights she was sure he would not be able to top it with the next, yet somehow he always did.

"Max I love the way you touch me" she breathed into his ear while softly nibbling on his lobe, which shot a jolt of electricity straight down his body.

Max was in a world of his own, for all the years since the day Sarah came into his life, no other woman had brought out the passionate lover in him, and he was sure no one ever would after he lost her. But this didn't seem to be any ordinary woman, from the moment he laid eyes on her she did things to him he didn't think possible. She was on his mind day and night, and now having her in his arms was simply invigorating. A goddess who so many men worshiped and yearned for was groaning and trembling with passion for him. He asked what he had done to deserve such a glorious privilege. She was almost fully naked and the more of her body he revealed the harder it became to maintain self control. He had an insatiable need to have her, taste her, feel her, just plain out please her. Removing her bra he took a moment to admire the sight before him and then without thinking twice he lavished each one, using his mouth and hands simultaneously making sure neither one lacked the attention they deserved. Fran's head was spinning she was sure at that moment that anyone she had ever been with before him was not worth her time. This was by far the most sensual experience of all her 29 years. Never before had a man paid such close attention to her needs, it was like he was only concerned with pleasing her and the more she responded the more he would persist. Like a hungry predator creeping up on his prey he inch by inch devoured every part of her bode and he skillfully satiated his and her appetite discovering each one of her erogenous zones up to the most intimate, causing Fran to beg for mercy with each passing tenacious stroke, kiss, and caress. Not being able to take anymore of his delicious torture, she begged him to take her.

"Fran I need to have you soon I'm not sure how much longer I can hold it" Max wanted nothing more than to satisfy her but his selflessness was slowly being overpowered by his own need to have her.

"Don't hold back Max, I need younow… Oh" her last word was cut short with the feel of his manhood making its way slowly but firmly into her. Fran's heart threatened to beat right out of her chest as he rhythmically drove her to pure ecstasy.

"Fran you're so.." he had to take a deep breath to try and get the words out "perfect." Max felt faint as the tight cavern of Fran's womb massaged his member gently at first but soon more and more feverishly. As Fran began to respond to his steady but agitated motions they soon couldn't take it anymore and ultimately peaked to the most unbelievable climax either of them had ever experienced.

"Max!" Fran screamed finally giving into the overwhelming sensation that overtook her body causing her to involuntarily shiver for a few seconds while he reached his own heights.

"Oh Fran, Fran!" feeling her insides bathe him he clung to her one last time as he released all of himself into her.

For several minutes nothing was said, not one word was spoken; they just laid there marveling in what could only be described as unbelievable. Fran slid down to meet Max for she hadn't even noticed her head was up against the headboard and she was almost in an upright position. She took a spot in his arms and snuggled to him, enjoying the sound of his heart still pounding somewhat heavily from their encounter. Max was having a hard time recovering both physically and emotionally. He was sure he had never felt anything that intense in all his life and as the most intriguing and sensuous woman he had ever met laid in his arms he wondered what he was going to do next.

"Max that was incredible," Fran finally broke the silence and her brown eyes collided with his soothed green ones. What was it about those eyes that made her melt in an instant. As if in perfect sync Max could almost match her thoughts exactly, he pondered what those beautiful chocolate brown eyes of hers had to turn him into putty.

"Fran that's a very big understatement," his voice stammering as she rolled over on top of him tracing sweet kisses all over his face, lips and in due course his neck. They were more than satisfied the last time but renewed passion came swiftly and shortly after for the both of them.

"Fran, what are you doing to me woman," he groaned

"Hmm if I would've known this was what it took to get you to call me Fran it would have been the first thing I tried." Fran said while teasingly brushing her lips against his. Max was quickly regaining all the familiar sensations and to his astonishment he was once again completely ready and willing to take her once more. And he did, their lovemaking went on for hours and varied from slow and tender to untamed and passionate. Neither one willing to voluntarily stop it was pure exhaustion that finally interfered taking them into a deep and restful sleep.

Max turned before heading for the door. He just wasn't sure if he was ready for what this all implied. I mean now what? Are we a couple? Was it just a moment of passion? He thought to himself. He just didn't know what he wanted. He knew Fran was amazing in every possible way but was he ready for her if she decided to push for a commitment. He had trouble believing he had just spent hours making love to a woman he had just met. But it sure didn't feel that way, while he was with her they were one and their bodies just seemed to fit and compliment each other perfectly. As much as he feared commitment the thought of not seeing her again was now unconceivable.

"Fran, I don't know if I'm ready for.. well I mean I loved being with you but.." He desperately sought out the right words to express just what a mess he was inside.

"Shush Max lets not label this it is what it is, let it be, I love being with you too but if taking this to another level will compromise what we just discovered I don't want to. We can always just discuss it later." Fran tried her hardest to hide what she was truly feeling, the truth was she had just had a glimpse of what it was to be the woman in Maxwell Sheffield's life and now she could only wish to become a real part of his life. Unfortunately judging by his apprehensiveness she knew he didn't want the same from her.

Hearing the response he thought he wanted to hear from her considering his fears, he felt surprisingly disappointed. He realized that in some way he had hoped she would insist on taking things further, but maybe he had misinterpreted or exaggerated what he thought he felt from her during their love making. She was simply extremely passionate and expressive and that was it. A woman like her is not interested in settling down especially when it meant dealing with the burden of someone else's kids, he thought.

"Yes well, agreed then, I better get going the family must be worried, I said I would be back soon after my walk" she bid him farewell with a soft and lingering kiss

"Max?" she said as he opened the front door to leave

"Yes Fran?" he asked softly

"Do you think I could come by and spend some time with you and the kids this week; I mean if you're not too busy?"

His smile almost light up the room, he loved how she seemed to genuinely enjoy the simplicities of just spending a day with the kids, most women in her positions never appreciate such things.

"Really? I mean I'm sure you have a full schedule," he asked

"Nothing is more important right now" she added tenderly stroking his face, as he thought if he didn't leave soon he never would.

"Then we would love to have you over all week if you like, I'm sure the kids will be thrilled," kissing her one last time he finally left shutting the door behind him and thinking he overheard Fran whisper something behind the door. It was so soft that he decided he would not assume what he heard was accurate. 'Don't kid yourself Max' he told himself as he hailed a taxi.

"Coming" Niles remarked as he rushed to the door to a pleasant surprise.

"Miss Fine, what a pleasure to see you again, we weren't expecting you were we?"

"Hmm Niles is that your subtle way of saying get out?" Fran got a good vibe from Niles and could tell they would get to be great friends. It seemed very natural to joke around with him.

"Heavens no, I would have to be insane to kick out such a vision of a woman" he added teasingly without taking too much away from the reality of his admiration for her beauty.

"Eh hum," they heard a strong cough and looked over simultaneously to see Max standing right behind them arms folded across his chest. "Am I interrupting" he asked maybe a bit more sternly then intended.

Fran just smiled from ear to ear, she couldn't believe this was he jealous? Oh this was just too good, she had just gotten there and the day promised to be a great one.

"As a matter a fact your charming butler seems to think I wasn't invited, I guess someone forgot to warn everyone." She added mockingly folding her arms too.

Max softened up realizing he had no real reason to be upset. He had momentarily lost it seeing Fran and Niles so chummy and truthfully it made him a lot more uneasy than he expected.

"I'm sorry Fran but I've just been so busy since we last saw each other that well I admit I didn't even tell the children you were coming. But on the bright side think how happy they will be to find you here, when they arrive from school." Max came closer and placed a sweet kiss on her hand that sent chills up Fran's spine. 'Get a grip girl it's just your hand' she thought to herself.

"Well if you excuse me; Miss Fine I am at your service," Niles grinned to himself as he walked towards the kitchen. He really liked Miss Fine for his boss and just hoped he wouldn't be so stupid as to let her go.

Seeing Niles exit the room through the corner of his eye Max couldn't resist and took Fran in his arms for a soft but passionate kiss.

"Mmm I like that a lot better than the kiss on the hand thing," she said slowly recovering from the unexpected show of affection.

"I'm sorry I couldn't resist, by the way should I watch you two from now on." Max said still placing small kisses on her face.

"I like Niles as much as the next guy, but I'm afraid a certain British producer has ruined me for everyone else." She graciously accepted his kisses while applying some of her own.

"Fran we have to talk. I was thinking and I really don't want things to stay the way they are I prefer we define our situation so as to avoid any future conflict between us." Max said in a serious tone.

"I agree Max we do have to talk about what we want this to be, I know last time I kind of agreed to let things flow, I was just so afraid to break the wonderful moment we were living," a shrill of pleasure shot up and down her body remembering all the things they had lived and shared in those short hours.

Nuzzling her face with his it was as though he could feel everything she was feeling, and memories of their day together flooded his thoughts as well. The chemistry and connection he felt with her were inexplicable. So many times after Sarah's death he had promised himself never to let a woman get close enough, no one would ever penetrate into his heart again, the pain of losing a loved one was unbearable and he was just not willing to risk feeling all that again. But unknowingly Fran had crept her way in almost instantly and he feared it was too late to get her out.

"Tell you what we'll do something with the kids this afternoon and then maybe if you're free tonight we could go out to dinner somewhere, maybe talk things out how's that sound?" she said still enjoying the feel of being in his arms.

"Sounds like a plan Miss Fine," he added in jest

"Now I know you're not starting that again, I'm glad at least I know what I have to do to get a Fran out of you this time." She said with a seductive wink getting pleasure from teasing him.

"Eh hum well, yeah why don't you come in Fran and make yourself comfortable, Niles will be with you in a second to see if you need anything I'll finish off one last thing in the office I promise to be right with you," Max clumsily led her to the sitting area, eager to change the subject, he was sure if they continued on that route they would be repeating their previous activities in no time. As much as he wanted to he wasn't one to base a relationship solely on the physical, but it was amazing how easily this woman could get under his skin.

Fran couldn't help but giggle a bit, she thought it was so cute how he tried to suppress things, to the untrained eye he seemed so stuffy and repressed but she saw the inner Max and she took pride in being able to read him so well in such a short time.

"Ok but you better hurry back you know how that Niles gets around me," she said with a devilish grin.

He smiled already adoring her clever wit, he thought how since he met her, he had smiled more times than he had in all those years before put together. There was no room in his life for smiles since Sarah died, it seemed he made it a rule for himself not to be content, and up until he met Fran he was doing pretty well at following that rule.

"Well I promise to come save you from him in no time, excuse me," he answered before he disappeared into his office.

Fran sat and made herself at home as she explored the Sheffield household with her eyes. The house was certainly beautiful, all the luxuries a person could dream of but there undoubtedly was something missing. That feminine touch, that family warmth, that hominess Fran had grown up in was definitely not there. Looking over to the side table she caught sight of a picture frame and in it was Max with the kids and whom she assumed must have been Sarah, his late wife. Max had briefly talked about her that day they spent together but it was obvious it pained him to speak of her so she didn't want to push him. Fran suddenly felt their pain; she could only imagine what it must feel like to have it all and then lose it that way. All she thought she had lost with Fred back then seemed so petty now, and after meeting Max she was sure everything happened for a reason.

"Sweet picture isn't it" Fran was startled by Niles, who had returned with some beverages.

"Sure is, she looks like she was quite a woman," Fran looked at the picture and as she admired Sarah, she suddenly thought how different she was from her. Sarah seemed more like what she thought Max should be with. A sweet blonde Gentile, it wasn't likely for a man like him to seriously fall for a woman like her. Letting the notion sink in she sighed heavily.

"Something wrong Miss Fine?" Niles asked noticing her solemn expression.

"No nothing Niles just thinking how perfect they all look together," Fran responded inattentively.

"They sure were, but you know I think Mr. Sheffield is ready to explore new and exciting things, don't you think."

"Well Niles I sure hope so anyway," she finally put down the frame, and picked up her drink.

"Tell me Niles how long have you worked with the Sheffields, you have any good dirt I should know about," Seeing the way his eyes lit up she knew she had found her Yenta buddy.

"Hmm lets see where do I begin.." Niles felt like he could tell her anything, and so he did, they went on to speak about anything and everything that happened in the Sheffield residence since the day he started.

"Oh boy Niles that's quite a story, I can't believe everything that poor man has gone through, and those kids, oh the poor little things." She looked toward the office he had been in there for a while and she wondered how many days he had spent that way, burying himself in his work to forget his problems. She fought the overwhelming feel to go and console him. If what they had could only turn into something more, something real, she would make sure his suffering was finally put to rest. But she would not push; he hadn't made it clear that he wanted their relationship to escalate.

"So Miss Babcock has it in for Max I'm assuming," she continued trying her best not to drift away in her thoughts.

"You're very keen Miss Fine, I didn't tell you much about her and you managed to pick that up from the one time you met her."

"Niles it doesn't take a genius to recognize that look she gave me when I came to pick up Max and the kids. It's obvious she is threatened by me, although I'm sure she has a fairly good chance, after all she is beautiful, sophisticated, the kind of woman a man like Max would choose." The words formed a knot in her throat; she couldn't help feeling like she just couldn't compete with all these high class society women. She remembered the last time this was an issue in her life. Thinking back at the choice Fred made, it took all of her to fight back the tears driven by the overwhelming fear that Max would do the same.

"Miss Fine if you knew Mr. Sheffield a little better you would see just what his type is. Don't let the gentle demeanor fool you, the woman you see in that frame with that happy family was spontaneous, irreverent, and enthusiastic, nothing like the society women you speak of. I seem to recognize those very qualities in a person right here, some things never change I see." He gave her a comforting wink sensing her insecurities. 'Hopefully they would not get in the way of the two of them ending up together.' He thought.

"Niles we're home… Fran!" Maggie said pleasurably surprised by the woman coming towards her.

"Hello Mags its so great to see you, B how are you, boy more and more handsome every time I see you Gracie angel come here," Fran was overjoyed and didn't know who to hug first. Something about this family felt so safe, so hers.

"Fran we didn't know you were coming, how long you staying, can we go to the movies, to the mall or…"

"B hold on, lets get you guys settled in first and then we'll all decide what to do ok," Fran felt Gracie's little arms wrap tightly around her neck and her heart melted at the feel of her embrace.

"Fran are you staying forever now?" the youngest whispered to Fran

Fran looked into her sweet little eyes who just screamed for some love and attention

"Sweetie for now I promise I'll be coming over all week how's that?"

"Yes!" they all yelled at once

Fran couldn't hold back a hearty laugh on how easily they were pleased, she realized she had fallen in love with them as quickly as she had done with Max. Yes she loved him and though he may never hear it from her she was at least ready to admit it to herself.

"Now why don't you all show me your rooms, and we'll get you guys cleaned up while your dad finishes up in the office before we all go out," they easily agreed and headed up like little puppets, much to Nile's surprise. It had taken him at least thirty tries to get those kids to clean up after school. The woman was gifted he thought.

"Niles where is Fran don't tell me she left, I feel awful things got really hectic in the office I couldn't cut it short,"

"Sir Miss Fine is upstairs, she asked me to tell you when you were done,"

"Upstairs, what the devil is she doing upstairs?" Max pondered what she could be up to now

"Sir I have some to dos in the kitchen why don't you go up and see for yourself," Niles said before walking away.

What was going on, what was she doing upstairs, suddenly his wonders were put at ease, he heard a sound he loved and missed dreadfully. His kids' laughter echoed the hallway as he neared Gracie's bedroom, the warm feeling he felt from hearing his children's happy laughter paled next to the sensation he got when he slowly opened the bedroom door and revealed Fran buried under his three children who were playfully hovering over her. He watched in complete awe at the scene unfolding before him, his children were beaming, as was she, it was as though things had always been that way and Fran fit perfectly in their lives. He felt a sudden rush of emotion and recognized it instantly, only once before had he been overwhelmed by that very feeling. It was love, he loved her. He didn't know how but she had somehow broken through the barrier he built around his heart after Sarah's death. She caught him staring and their eyes mer, revealing their inner thoughts without the need for a single word.

"Dad, why didn't you tell us Fran was coming, this is so cool!" Brighton remarked noticing his dad at the door, but got no response.

"Earth to Dad, I know she is hot but control yourself old man," Brighton added

"Brighton!," Maggie yelled

"Huh, yes I'm sorry I didn't tell you kids anything work distracted me as usual. Fran I am dreadfully sorry I left you waiting for so long," Max finally replied .

"Don't worry Max, Niles kept me entertained and then the children came. I hope you don't mind that I'm up here I just wanted to get them ready,"

"Lets see do I mind that you managed to get these three cleaned up in record time; I think not. Now where have we decided to spend the afternoon?" The children all shouted out their preferences at once and after much arguing they finally all decided on a movie.

They enjoyed a wonderful afternoon together and every so often the children would catch his father staring at Fran, or witness small affectionate exchanges. Nothing could make them happier than Fran becoming a permanent part of their life. So many times they feared their dad would end up with some yuppie, stuck up woman that would most likely think of them as a burden. But now with Fran in the picture they had high hopes for the future.

"Good night angels I'll see you tomorrow, I just have a few photo shoots then I'll be back," she kissed the three children goodnight and met Max in the hallway. He was swarming with a mixture of love and extreme gratitude for this woman who had blown in like a whirlwind to make them all feel alive again.

"So how about that dinner, I'm famished," Fran said coming into Max's accepting arms.

"Famished huh, that's amazing considering the lunch you had, I swear I don't know how you keep that perfect figure of yours." Tracing his hands over her body he emphasized his point.

"Believe me I'm as shocked as you are. So where are we going?"

"Hmm how about the Russian Tea room, are you up for that?" Seeing her eyes widened with that sparkle he loved so much, he knew he made a good suggestion.

"Lead the way Mr. Sheffield,"

"My pleasure Miss Fine." As they left the for the stairs, they heard the children giggling,

"It seems we got more than one Yenta in this house, I don't know which one is worse Niles or these three."

"You'll get used to it Fran trust me," Max opened the front door and they headed for the restaurant, enjoying a light conversation on the way there.

"Fred can't you tell them to hurry up, don't they know who we are, I can't believe we have to wait for a damn table." Catharine whined as the host led them to the waiting area,

"Catherine what do you want me to do apparently someone else got the last reserved table. We should have called like I asked you to." Fred sighed and rolled his eyes, frankly he was sick of her constant complaints.

"Yeah well I don't give a damn, I have never waited for a table in my life this is ridiculous."

"Yes I have a reservation under Sheffield," Fred turned instantly at the sound of the voice and name of the person speaking to host. There was Fran with this man again. There had to be something going on between them, this was the second time in less than two days he had seen them together. Damn it, he just couldn't stand the idea of seeing Fran with someone else. He had to do something but he didn't know exactly what.

"Hello Fred what are you staring at," Catherine followed his glare right to Fran and Max.

"Well , well if it isn't little Miss popular, and who is that she is with. Who ever he is he seems way out of her league. Probably a cheap thrill for him, huh figures."

"Catherine, I don't want to hear another word from you, all you ever do is spit out negativity," Fred had never told his wife about Fran but hearing her trash her this way, threatened to make him slip. He was on the brink of confessing that he always loved Fran so many times but never had the guts to.

"Gees, touchy, why don't we go say hello," Fred tried to stop her but it was too late she was already half way there.

"Excuse me, hi there remember me we met at the gala a few weeks ago. I'm Catherine Turner-Myers I believe you're in the process of working for my father right?" she approached them giving them the fakest smile both Fran and Max had ever seen.

"Yes of course, how are you" Fran was thrilled at how talking to the woman who stole Fred from her had no affect on her anymore. The feeling only confirmed what she felt for Max. There was no more resentment towards Fred in fact there was nothing there at all.

"You know my husband Fred, say hello honey don't be rude." She added almost pulling Fred up to them.

Max gritted his teeth; this was the last person he ever wanted to run into. He was so uneasy and doubtful about anything having to do with this guy. He had been such a major part of Fran's life, and no matter how much it pained him, he could never take that from Fred.

"Hello Fred, nice to see you again. I'm sorry this is Maxwell Sheffield," Fran noticed Max wasn't too thrilled about seeing Fred and frankly wished they could just walk away..

"The Broadway producer! Oh my god I love your shows, but I never knew the man behind it all was so handsome, I have to start going to the theater more often." Catherine replied in a less than subtle tone.

"Thank you it's a pleasure; Fred nice seeing you again," Max said reluctantly shaking his hand.

"Well it was nice seeing you, we have to get to our table now excuse us," Fran was now the one that was pissed, where did this little high class floozy come off hitting on Max.

"Hey I have an idea, we have to wait for a table and well you guys got a rather large one for just the two of you, why don't we share. You and Fred could talk business and well I'm sure me and Max will find something to talk about," she said winking at Max.

"No, no are you kidding Catherine what is wrong with you," Fred stepped in

"What's wrong with that idea, they don't mind, do you guys?" Catherine knew perfectly well, she had cornered them.

Fran turned to Max and he gave her a defeated look of approval.

"I suppose it would be ok," Fran almost whispered.

:"Fabulous, lets go then," Catherine quickly took a spot next to Max and Fran had to fight the urge to beat her down on the spot.

"Right this way please," the waiter said as he walked them all to their table.

Once seated the tension could be cut through with a knife, it was obvious the situation was extremely awkward and what started off perfect turned into a complete nightmare for Fran and Max. Aside from the occasional small talk dinner was silent and seemed to last forever.

"Excuse me, Fran I'll be right back I need to use the restroom," Max whispered to Fran getting up to leave the table.

Catherine watched as he headed for the restroom and got a devilish, thought. She had it in for Fran ever since that party where she had come in acting like she owned the place. This was her chance to get her back.

"Excuse me too; I need to powder my nose." Fran gave her a look as Catherine got up and headed for the bathroom too.

"Fred you should keep her on a leash," Fran spit out, she had seen enough of her crap for one night.

"She's harmless Fran don't worry about her, she just gets a kick out of meeting these high class people. They are not like us Fran it's like we are both here with the wrong people,"

"I'm sorry you feel that way about your wife Fred but unlike you i know what I feel for Max is right and I can't think of another person I would rather be here with."

"What is that supposed to mean Fran. Are you in love with this guy?" Fred took a deep breath at the realization that he had lost her forever..

"Fred I really don't mean to hurt you but the truth is yes, I fell in love with Max from the moment I saw him. I really think he is the person I was meant to be with . Thanks to this glorious new love in my life I can finally make peace with my past."

Fran was sure she had never seen a more distraught look on his face, and knowing what it felt to lose a loved one she sympathized a bit.

"Fran I can't believe you stopped loving me, I can accept losing you, but I guess deep inside it consoled me to think we would always love one another."

"I'm really sorry Fred but I've never been more sure and clear about anything in my life, I love Max and I would give anything for him." As she was speaking Fran let the words sink in and suddenly felt she was telling the wrong person. She was ready to tell Max how she felt.

"I see you are really sure about this but just know this if he ever forgets how extremely lucky he is to have your love and neglects you in any way, I'll always be there Fran Always."

She didn't know what to respond she just knew he had to move on because no matter what happened she had no intentions of ever being with him again.

"Ok Fred. So what do you think is keeping them" she said trying to change the subject but at the same time wondering where Max was.

"Oh excuse me Max, I'm so clumsy sometimes" Purposely bumping into Max she looked into his eyes seductively.

"Its quite alright I was a bit distracted myself," Max replied taking a few steps back encouraging her to retreat.

"You know Max I want to thank you so much for letting us sit at your table, it was very sweet of you."

"Think nothing of it," he responded

"You know it's hard to be with someone like Fred, he's all work and no play, we barely do things like this and well when we do I have to deal with his constant wondering eye," She continued ignoring his attempts to lead them back tot the table.

"I mean even tonight if wasn't that I'm a true admirer of your work and its an honor to share a table with you, I never would've suggested it. Its not exactly pleasant for me considering the situation with Fra… Oh never mind." Judging by his intrigued expression she knew she had struck a nerve.

"No please continue" Max wondered what she had to say about Fran and Fred he didn't already know.

"Well I feel I should warn you about your date and Fred, I'm almost sure they have something going on. A woman can sense these things in her husband. I mean the first night they supposedly met they were awfully chummy all night," Noting his bland expression she sensed she was telling him nothing new, and desperately searched her mind for something she could use.

"The constant flirting that night was just the beginning though, word around my daddy's office is that she will only do business with him. She even agreed to go to a big convention in Chicago next week, and when I asked to go with him like I always do on his trips, he insisted I should stay. It wasn't until I found out she would be going that I put two and two together. Do you know how hard it is to see the love of your life being stolen away and not being able to stop it" She had slowly made her way back into Max's arms without him realizing it. While she staged her phony desperation Max was flooded with an overwhelming amount of doubt.

'What is this about a trip next week? And she was going with him? How could she be so false? A thousand questions with no answers All he could do was wonder why she had kept this from him. Could it be that she was just using him and the kids to momentarily escape her Hollywood life style? Yeah that was it, she was planning to leave for good that's why she had to spend time with them all this week. His heart was riddled with anger and pain and he scolded himself mentally for letting this happen to him again, if he had only stuck to his plan of keeping love out this never would have happened.

"Excuse me I hope I'm not interrupting but I think I'm ready to go if you don't mind." Max snapped out of his thoughts and turned to meet Fran's accusing eyes. He was so caught up in his own pain that he didn't stop to notice the hurt reflected in here look.

"Oh Fran I was just thanking Max for letting us sit with you guys," Catherine was enjoying the way she had gotten to Fran and almost couldn't hold back the smirk lurking on her lips.

"So I see, Max are you ready," she responded walking away, not being able to look at them any longer.

"Yes lets go" he replied snidely

They bid farewell and headed for Fran's apartment. The limo ride was silent, both had so much to say and no way to begin.

"Max I don't want to overreact but what the hell was that back there. I mean you say you're going to the restroom, disappear and then I find you hugging that.. that.. damn woman," Fran was on the brink of exploding and couldn't hold it in any longer she couldn't believe the same woman was standing in the way of her happiness again.

"I don't know why you refer to her in that manner Fran, although I guess I understand you hating the woman who is with the love of your life, it must have been really hard to see her with him. but don't worry I'm sure on your trip to Chicago next week you will make up for lost time, she won't be there to stand in your way." He took a deep breath trying to control himself.

"First of all, who the hell said I'm going to Chicago with Fred or anyone else for that matter. If you check my planner I have no trips in the near future. And secondly, you are absolutely right it was extremely hard for me to see the love of my life with her tonight. When I saw her in your arms just now, it almost killed me. I have never been more jealous in my life." She responded matching his agitated tone.

"What?" his voice now down to a mere whisper

"Max I love you, I don't know how, when, or why it happened but I fell in love with you. The minute I laid eyes on you I knew you were meant to be something special in my life. What I didn't know was to what extent you would be. I've held it in fearing your response but I can't any more." Her eyes welling up with fresh tears she attempted to turn away but he caught her chin with his hand and slowly directed her eyes back to his.

Their eyes momentarily did the talking until Max swiftly brought her into his arms in a tight embrace.

"Oh Fran, I love you too, I don't know how or when either but the truth is I feel that I can't live without you anymore. The thought of losing you terrifies me, that's where my doubts come in. I can't help feeling like I don't have the right to love you this much yet, and Fred well.." he paused.

"Max" Fran attempted to step in but he didn't let her.

"Fran Fred has an advantage over me, he was your first love, the man that you were about to marry, in a nutshell a huge part of your life, how could I ever compete with all that." Fran pulled away from his embrace and looked straight into his eyes once again.

"Max you think I don't have doubts, how many times have I told myself that I can't possibly compete with all those Catherine like women who seem so much more compatible with you. However despite those doubts, when you're near me, when we touch, kiss nothing else matters. That spark between us, that instant pull we have for one another I know I can't now or have I ever been able to match with anyone else Max. I don't want Fred, Catherine or anyone to ever come between us I love you now and will love you until my heart stops, please Max let the past be just that."

"Fran darling you and the kids are the center of my universe and I promise to give myself to you completely, there will be no looking back from now on." Eager to show her how he felt he sought her lips and she fervently yearned to feel his kiss. They put all of their emotion into the kiss that felt like their first. This was indeed a unique kiss for it symbolized their newly declared love for one another.

"Sir we are approaching the entrance of Miss Fine's apartment building," they distantly heard their driver speak over the intercom but were reluctant to break their kisses.

"Darling I don't want you to leave me tonight, come back home with me. Please Fran I just can't part yet. I need to show you just what you're doing to me." His kisses were now trailing down her neck and Fran was slowly losing it, there was nothing he could ask for in that moment that she would deny.

"Yes Max I need you too, take me anywhere you want, I would follow you anywhere," her own words sounded incoherent in her mind, she could think of nothing other than how much she loved this man.

They sped off to the Sheffield household and with desperation to demonstrate their love for one another they were soon entangled in their lovemaking.

:"Max I love you so much it hurts," Max couldn't hear her anymore; his desire for her had risen to the point of no return. Gently taking her in his arms he lifted the weight of her hair from the nape of her neck and brushed a sweet kiss on her silky exposed skin. The mere gesture set her entire being on fire and she felt every nerve ending scream for his touch. His gentleness and patience caused her both pleasure and a frantic need for him to move forward. Driven by an insatiable hunger to feel her bare skin against his he removed every last piece of clothing, and wallowed in her nude form. He loved her this way, it was much more than sexual, this level of intimacy was sensual, erotic and spiritual all in one. Fran cherished his attentiveness as their caresses became bolder and more demanding, she knew his passion grew stronger by the minute and could tell he was holding back in hopes to maintain what seemed to be his gentle mode, but the last thing she wanted was for him to hold back. She wanted him raw and untamed, to make him lose that self control he took pride in, was the strongest of all aphrodisiacs. His kisses trailed along her lips, down to her neck and ultimately reaching her beckoning breast. As he lightly flickered them with his tongue, he felt her instantly hardened with each stroke.

"Fran tell me you want me, tell me you need me" taking his mouth from her body momentarily he gasped for air, attempting to regain some sanity.

"Max you know I do" she managed to get out in what was merely a whisper. His hands where everywhere as where hers, his fingers reaching their target, he entered her moist, hot core and could feel she was more than ready. With no hesitation or effort he lifted her to his bed joining their bodies in one tender but firm thrust. Stroke by stroke, deeper and deeper he drove sensing and matching the rippling waves he could feel surge through Fran's body. Her fingernails dug into his back feeling she would never get over the way he filled her, the way her body melted around him in utter surrender.

"Fran I love you more and more with each passing moment, I can't see myself without you anymore." His breath coming in erratic spurts he knew it wouldn't be long.

"Max I'll never leave you, I love you so much… Max!" she replied giving into the inevitable.

"Fran, Fran," he gasped feeling the beads of sweat rapidly trailing down his face.

Lingering in the delicious afterglow, they held each other lovingly.

"Fran I want you to stay here with me and the kids, I need you. I need you to be the only one, the one I share the rest of my life with." Fran silently let his words sink in and it was such a big decision, although she had doubts about leaving everything in her life on standby she knew Max and the kids had become her number one priority.

"Max I would love to be here all the time like this, in your arms, knowing that there is no one else but me for you. But I do have some responsibility with my career which is unfortunately really unstable."

He shifted so that he could look directly at her. "Sweetheart I can't ask you to give up your career just for me, I know its really important,"

"You're so understanding honey that's one of the reasons I love you so much," her lips gently pecking his. "Tell you what I promise to resolve that issue as soon as possible and we'll see how soon I can sneak away to be with my sweet hearts."

Trying his hardest to hide his fears and insecurities about her remaining in that business in particular he nodded tenderly.

"Tomorrow I'll speak to John about getting out of my contract and that whole stupid Chicago business."

"Ah yes Chicago, you know Fran I really don't like the fact that people are going around thinking there is something going on between you and Fred. In fact the truth is if I had my way you would never see him again."

"Jealous are we?" She mockingly poked at his chest.

"Fran you know how I feel about him but I won't keep bringing it up either, its not worth it, all I want to do is enjoy our time together " Max replied tenderly savoring her lips

"Max I love you so much I can't believe how lucky I was to find you,"

"I'm the fortunate one darling, you are amazing I don't know what I would do if I ever lost you,"

"As long as you love me I promise you'll never lose me honey" stating her point with a passionate kiss Max gave in to inevitable and soon they were back to their now familiar tasks of pleasing and loving one another fully.

The rest of the week was nothing less than marvelous, Max and the kids grew closer and closer to Fran by the minute and they began to wonder how they could have survived all those years before her. the love she bestowed on the Sheffield family was priceless and she was sure she had never been happier.

"John I told you I have different priorities right now there is no way I'm going to sign another contract, especially with the Myers company" Frustrated Fran paced back and forth in her agent's office.

"Frannie are you against success? What is this guy you've been shacking up with doing to you, it's not like you to let opportunities like this pass by"

Fred came in time to catch John's comment and he felt his stomach sink at the thought of Fran living with another man.

"Hello Fran it's so great to see you again." He took her hand attempting to kiss it but she quickly pulled it away.

"Fred what are you doing here, in fact I'm glad you're here so I can tell you right to your face that I am not going on that trip to Chicago, so tell your company to find another model for their campaign, I'm sure you won't have trouble there are thousands of girls out there dying for a shot like this." Catching her breath, Fran counted to ten in her head she was becoming really upset by all the pressure.

"Fran I know that maybe your new boyfriend is persuading you to turn me down, because of our past but I don't understand why he can't let you continue your career." Fred replied.

"Max would never stand in the way of anything I wanted to do. He is the most supportive, loving man I have ever met. If I want to stop or continue my career it's strictly my decision no one else's. Besides I don't know how I can make you understand that my personal life is none your business" Fran knew she couldn't take much more of this and was on the brink of losing it completely.

"Fran I'm sorry I don't mean to pry into your personal affairs its just I don't want to see you throw everything away on something that may not be a sure thing. All I know is the word out there is that you are a stuck up brat who keeps rejecting every job offer she gets. If you don't go to this it may be the end of your career in the States before it even begins" Fred added

"Well Fred that's a risk I'm willing to take." She took her things and headed for the door leaving both men frustrated.

"I don't know what to do anymore ever since this guy came around it's like she doesn't care about anything else, I know her nothing we tell her will change her mind," John said dejectedly.

"You're right nothingwesay will get her to change her mind." Fred answered with a thoughtful look on his face. "Excuse me John I think I know just what to do."

"What?" John asked but Fred was already on his way out.

"Niles Fran will be here any minute, is lunch almost ready?" Max fussed with his tie making sure it was perfect. It had been a week since he and Fran confessed their love for each other and they had been inseparable ever since.

Niles watched the completely new and improved Maxwell Sheffield standing before him. It seemed like a miracle that this enthusiastic, youthful man with the gleam in his eyes was the same one who a short time before could count the number of times he smiled with one hand. Fran Fine had definitely been sent by the heavens.

"Yes Sir the table will be set shortly," Niles responded. Just then the doorbell rang and Niles went to get it.

"Yes hello, my name is Fred Turner is this the Sheffield residence?" Fred extended his hand to Niles who was skeptically eying him. Niles had a bad feeling about this one.

"Yes Sir it is, please do come in," He said without receiving the hand shake.

Fred took his hand back sheepishly realizing this must be the butler. "Thank you" As he came in he saw just the person he was looking for.

"Maxwell how are you, I'm sorry to barge in like this unexpectedly I just have a really urgent matter to discuss with you. Do you have a minute."

Max stood there in slight awe as to why this man was in his house, he was definitely not welcome.

"Well Fred I can't imagine what you would have to speak to me about but I guess I can spare a few moments please follow me to my office. Niles hold my calls I don't want to be interrupted."

"Yes Sir," Niles said curious about whom this man was and why Maxwell had treated him so snidely

"Please have a seat" Max said trying to be as courteous as he could be.

"Thank you, I'll stand. Listen Maxwell I would normally never bother you this way, especially at home but I think that it was crucial that I speak to you about Fran,"

Max took a deep breathe, he couldn't believe this guy actually came to his house to speak to him about Fran

"I beg your pardon Fred but Fran is not a topic of discussion. The truth of the matter is the two of you had some history but she is with me now and like I said that is not open for discussion so if that's what you had to say."

Fred gritted his teeth and held in his own ego.

"No Maxwell that is not it. I am an adult and I can accept when I have lost. But seeing as to how you two seem to be so much in love I thought I should let you know what she is planning to do because of that love." He saw he had caught Max's attention and continued "You see Max one of the biggest things I regret and led to losing Fran was my inability to accept that she was her own person, she gave up everything for me. When we were together she always had a dream of becoming a fashion designer and modeling her own clothes for the whole world to admire. At the time I stood in her way and because she loved me she agreed to put it aside."

"I can assure you I would support anything Fran wanted to do so.." Max was quickly growing weary of the conversation.

"I know and maybe you wouldn't consciously stand in her way like I did. But whether you ask her to or not she is going to give up her life long dream and career to be with you Maxwell. Though I commend her sacrifice I ask if you really want to have that on your conscience for ever. Take it from someone who's been there it's a heavy burden to carry."

Max silently analyzed Fred's words in his mind. Sorting through his thoughts he recalled the day Fran told him the whole story about their relationship. Suddenly he knew there was some truth to all this. Max knew one of the things she hated most in Fred was that for so long he was opposed to her making something of herself, to be independent.

"Supposing you are correct, what can I do if she has made up her mind, I have no right to tell her what to do, it's up to her to decide."

"Well Maxwell you are probably aware that there is a big convention, on Monday that she is settled on not going. You are probably a, if not the reason for that, so if you were to convince her it was the best thing I'm sure she would agree." Fred suggested unsure of what his reaction would be.

"So I'm supposed to convince Fran that the best thing for her is to go away with you, is that it?" Max snapped back sarcastically.

"No Max not with me, I wish you would get past the personal here and see that this is about Fran's career and what has taken her so long to build. Max I'm in the business and the fact is that if she doesn't sign with us her future in the modeling industry is looking grim. She has cancelled every appointment with us since she's gotten to the States and she has built a bad rep for herself." He held back a grin; he could tell he was getting through to him.

Max's head stirred in confusion. He knew he did not want to let Fran go on this trip, there was just too much in stake But to be the one responsible for her quitting the one thing she always wanted was something he just couldn't do.

"Maxwell I can see you really care for Fran and as someone who shares that feeling I am merely trying to appeal to your reasonable side. I know when you think about it you will do the right thing. I won't take up anymore of your time." Fred began to see himself out realizing Max had no intention of accompanying him. Max had a lot to think about and Fred knew if all went as planned he would be on his way to Chicago with Fran in no time.

Fran pulled onto the front of Max's house and was sure she recognized the car that had driven away from that same spot.

"Hey Niles, who's care was that," she asked entering the house.

"It was a gentleman here to see Mr. Sheffield," before he finished Max came in interrupting their conversation.

"Hello darling, how are you." He greeted her with a gentle kiss.

"Mmm, better now that I'm here, you wouldn't believe the meeting I just had with my agent, I swear he can be such a pain. He put me in such a bad mood I had to stop for some quick therapy." She said waving a shopping bag in her hand. "I bought the kids a few little things. How was your morning sweetie, is lunch ready I'm famished."

"My morning was pretty bland darling nothing out of the ordinary, lets sit down a minute while Niles and the kids are ready for lunch." Hands intertwined he led her to the couch and she cuddled in his arms.

"Sweetie what happened in your meeting today, why do you say it was such a hassle?"

Fran sighed she really didn't want to mention it to Max she had made a decision about it and the last thing she wanted was for him to find out Fred was there trying to convince her again.

"Honey it's a long story you mind if we discuss it later, right now I just want to enjoy this time with you and the kids, it's all I need right now." Doing her best to change the

topic she hugged him tighter to her.

"Fran are you sure that is all you need, I mean maybe now you think that way but what if later you miss the life you were living before you met us." Max said refusing to let her evade the issue.

"Max what is this all about, of course not I love you all so much nothing is more important to me, you complete me I don't need anything else in my life." Looking straight at him now she could see he wasn't buying it.

"Darling I think maybe you should go to this Chicago convention, it is important to your career and I just don't want there to be any regrets in the future." Max bit his jaw, he hated this, the truth was he didn't want her far away from him and worst close to Fred.

"Max what are you saying, I would be gone for a whole week, and you know if I sign that contract I would be traveling all year. Our time together would be slim to none." She was puzzled as to why he would want her to go on a trip he was completely opposed to not two days ago.

He hesitated and cringed at the thought of her not being with him for months at a time. The selfish side of him wished she would just stay with him and the kids forever and never step foot out of the house but he knew that true love wasn't selfish and if she was willing to sacrifice for him he had to do the same. A painful sense of sorrow washed over him in realization that maybe they weren't meant to be after all. He knew her career and lifestyle were an impediment for them getting together and now here it was separating them yet again. "I know darling but like I said this is vital in your career which is also a big part of your life. Besides I am going to be busy all week we wouldn't have much tome to spend together anyway. You know just because you go doesn't mean you have to sign anything, it's never good to shut doors for yourself darling trust me it's for the best."

"Max I know it's a good opportunity I'm just afraid that if I go things will change, I need you and if I lose you I won't be able to survive."

Max pulled her into his arms reassuringly "Darling I love you, remember that, on my part that will never change."

"Ditto, thank you for being so wonderful honey, I don't know what I would do with out you." She kissed him tenderly and slowly they became more passionate.

"Get a room" Brighton spit out

"Brighton!" Maggie screamed

"What! I really don't want to see all that," Max and Fran watched until their quarreling became too overwhelming

"Common kids lets go eat lunch and stop arguing, gees you guys sure love to fight." Together they all headed for the dining room and enjoyed their meal

Max sat back on the chair in his office, it was Sunday night and Fran was preparing for her trip. He knew he had convinced her to go on this trip, he thought it was the right thing to do but every fiber in his body urged him to stop her. He felt as though when she boarded that plane things would never be the same again. Why did things have to be so complicated. All he wanted was for her to stay by his side forever, instead she was on her way to slowly but surely drift away from him. He knew there was no place in a model's life for anything stable but he had momentarily lost sight of that and hoped she would be satisfied with the family life he was offering her.

"Come in Niles." He said hearing a soft knock at the door

"Sir Miss Fine is on the phone" Niles said bringing him the cordless.

"Thank you Niles. Darling how are you, you all set yet?" he tried his best to disguise the glum tone that crept up his throat.

"Yeah honey I'm all set, I wish I could see you before I leave but I know you are busy, I guess I'll just have to wait a whole week to have you in my arms again." She hoped he would put his work aside and rush to her, she needed him to ease all the doubts that were eating her alive.

"I wish I could too darling, but when you get back hopefully with good news, we can celebrate,"

"And what is good news Max?" she asked expectantly

He hesitated not knowing what she wanted to hear. "Whatever is good news to you darling will be for me too, All I want is for you to be happy." He sighed deeply, not knowing how much longer he could hold in his real feelings.

She looked up sadly, a part of her was still clinging on to the hope, that he would ask her not to go.

"Well I just wanted to tell you I love you before I left tomorrow good night honey." Her eyes welling up with tears she was trying her hardest to hold back.

"I love you too sweetheart call me as soon as you can tomorrow good night." He put the phone down and let the tears flow freely down his face. The overwhelming feeling of loss was unbearable he knew this could be it and it was killing him.

"Frannie don't cry it's ok he's just being supportive I would think you would love that about him." Val said trying to comfort her best friend

"Val I just can't help thinking maybe he just wants me to get this deal so he won't have to commit, maybe he doesn't love me the way I do him" the tears she was trying to so valiantly hold back now washed over her face swiftly.

"Sweetie you're always thinking the worse, now you should get some rest and tomorrow you'll feel better you'll see." Fran complied and went to her room knowing sleep would be impossible that night.

"Fran you look amazing as usual, I hope we will be able to get along like good friends on this trip, I want to show you I'm not the jerk you think I am." Fred said taking her arm and leading her to their gate.

"Yeah ok, Fred." She responded distantly not knowing what she was doing there, she knew where she wanted to be.

"Hello is this the Sheffield residence?" Val asked the British man on the other end of the phone.

"Yes whom do you wish to speak to?" Niles inquired

"This is Valerie Torriello I'm Fran's assistant and best friend, I was wondering if I could speak to Mr. Sheffield,"

"Certainly, one moment please," Niles entered Max's office and noticed his foul mood right off "Sir there is someone on the line"

"Niles I thought I asked you to hold all my calls" Max snapped at him

"It's a young lady who says she is Miss Fine's best friend."

Max took the phone suddenly terrified something might have happened.

"Yes Miss Torriello it's me, tell me is Fran alright?"

"Yes Mr. Sheffield she should be arriving in Chicago now, the reason I'm calling is that I feel I should tell you she was really upset last night"

"Oh?" Max asked baffled.

"Yes, you see she feels you asked her to go on that trip because you are hoping she will get a contract forcing her to travel a lot, and hence you would not have to commit to her."

Max couldn't believe his ears and was kicking himself for letting Fred's idiotic ideas cloud his better judgment.

"That is preposterous on the contrary she would be by my side right now if it were for me but I was sure it was something she truly wanted to do and I was just getting in her way with my jealousy and insecurities."

"Mr. Sheffield I'm just afraid she'll make a wrong decision, because she thinks you don't want to be with her."

"Yes I understand and thank you, thank you so much Val and please call me Max, I know we will be great friends from now on." He wasted no time and had Niles make him reservations for Chicago while he packed, he just hoped he could get there in time.

"Fran Fine it's a pleasure to see you here, always a vision I must say" Old man Myers took Fran's hand admiringly.

Fran put on the phony smile that the occasion called for. She suddenly missed the simplicity, genuine smiles she shared with Max, everything around him was real and true. As the convention went on she came closer to a conclusion and knew she was ready to decide what to do with her life.

The presentations paused for lunch and the moment for Fran to choose whether or not to sign was approaching.

"Fran I'm so glad you decided to come, I knew that Max was a reasonable person he knows as well as I that this is where you belong here with me and in this world." Fred said coming closer to Fran.

She raised her eyebrow indignantly "What do you mean?" she suddenly remembered the car she saw leaving Max's house the day he suggested her coming, "Did you ask him to let me come to this you cad"

"Fran don't get angry I simply stated the truth, you had worked too hard to get this high in life, how can he ask you to give that up for him?" Fred quickly added.

"You know what Fred I could be really angry right now but you have actually been of great help to me. You helped me make the most important choice of my life."

"Fran" he tried speaking but she stopped him

"No let me finish, Fred it's amazing how little you know me despite all we've been through, there is no way I would pick this over love. And I love Max, I am in madly in love with him, I don't really expect you to understand about what it means to truly love someone." She finished getting up to leave.

"Fran don't leave think of everything you'll lose if you go" he said running after her.

"I do know what I'll lose if I don't go and that's far more important to me, have a nice life Fred and hopefully someday you'll understand what truly fills a person, and I can assure you it is not money. Oh and tell your father in law over there where he can stick his contract."

Fred watched her leave and looked around to a room full of people and realized what she had told him all along, he had everything and was around all these important people and yet could not feel more a lone. It was too bad he had to lose the only meaningful thing in his life to finally see it.

"Yes is Miss Fran Fine in her room I need to see her urgently," Max asked the receptionist at the lobby desperately hoping he wasn't too late.

"I'm sorry Sir a gentleman picked her up early this morning and they haven't returned." Max cringed knowing that Fred was trying to sway her away from him

"Well thank you very much I guess I'll just wait," he said dejectedly. He went over to the couch in the lobby area and waited for almost an hour, his jealousy knowing she was out with Fred all this time was threatening to drive him mad and he knew he couldn't wait much longer. He bent his head down to his hands in frustration.

"Max! Max!" his head snapped up, instantly recognizing the voice he was yearning to hear.

They ran towards each other meeting in a long passionate embrace.

"Fran darling! I've been waiting for ever here I had to stop you from signing that contract. I never really wanted you to come on this blasted trip or leave me, I just took some foolish advice and convinced myself it was what you really wanted. But I'll die if you say you took that job, I don't know if I can stand not having you in my arms every night."

"Sweetie I thought you didn't want me anymore that's why I came but I didn't sign, I don't care about any of this if it means losing you, I need to be with you every day for the rest of my life, you and the kids are my life. This is life I was born to live. How can I possibly ask for more."

"Darling I love you so much that will never change, in fact you would make me the happiest man on earth if you Say you'll be my wife "He bent down on one knee and pulled out a gorgeous diamond ring.

Fran was tear stricken "Yes Max yes I will marry you, I love you, I love you!" she yelled ignoring the curious stares around them..

Max held one of his newborn baby twins and kissed Fran tenderly as she lay on the hospital bed.

"Fran darling I can't tell you how grateful I am that you came into my life, you have given me nothing but joy and now you give me these two treasures, you were truly a gift from god ."

She smiled at the sight of the man she loved staring lovingly at their two new children along with their three precious older ones and looked up with a tear in her eye.

"Thank you lord, for my wonderful new family, and thank you for always guiding me in making the right choices in life, I love you," she turned to her family and joined in on the excitement of the new members of their family.

The End