Synopsis
Omiya “Akko” Yoko, manager of Yoshikan High School’s baseball team in the Oita Prefecture was diagnosed with advanced caner in June of 2007. The same summer the team made it to Koshien baseball tournament and were among the top 8.
In 2008 Yoko choses to stop her cancer treatment and decided to spend her last summer with the school’s baseball team. Later that fall she passed away.

Cast
Kawashima Umika (川島海荷) as Omiya “Akko” Yoko (大宮耀子)
Yanagishita Tomo (柳下大) as Nakane Yoshiyuki (仲根良幸) [ace-pitcher]
Yamada Kenta (山田健太) as Kato Shinji (加藤信二) [captain]
Kuroki Tatsuya (黒木辰哉) as Kuroda Yasuhiro (黒田康弘)
Sayaa Irie (紗綾) as (福島真紀) as Fukushima Maki (福島真紀) [manager]
Ukaji Takashi (宇梶剛士) as Motomiya Yusaku (本宮勇作) [coach]
Omi Toshinori (尾美としのり) as Sawada Ryotaro (澤田亮太郎)
Mitsuishi Ken (光石研) as Omiya Tetsuo (大宮哲夫) [Yoko's father]
Zaizen Naomi (財前直見) as Omiya Keiko (大宮圭子) [Yoko's mother]
Uchino Kenta (内野謙太) as Omiya Kazuki (大宮和樹) [Yoko's older brother]
Riria (梨里杏) as Natsumi (菜摘) [senior captain]
Suzuki Nobuyuki (鈴木伸之) as ?? (俵晴彦) [member of the baseball club]
Takahata Yuta (高畑裕太) as ?? (佐々木治) [member of the baseball club]
Umezawa Masayo (梅沢昌代) as ?? (高梨昌美) [Yoko's homeroom teacher]
Shiga Kotaro (志賀廣太郎) as ?? (佐藤)
Satsuki Haruko (五月晴子) as Haru (ハルさん) [Yoko's room-mate in the hospital]

Other Information
In 2011 a non-fictional book was released.

Links
Japanese Wikipedia

Official music video for The Chaser

Synopsis
This is a story about 3 men that live together. One morning they wake up to find out that they are now fathers; which helps them to grow right beneath their own eyes.
Zen, Taro, Ken.
Although different ages, all three were known as the toughest cats in Harajuku Middle School. Now the 3 of them live together in a house they call “Peace.” It may sound like a nice place to live, but in actuality, it is closer to poverty than you can imagine. But even so, they bide by their motto of “a cheerful, fun, and funky” life.
Suddenly one day, they find a first grader, Akira, on their doorstep. With Akira, they find a letter from his mother that reads “please take care of him for a little while.” The bad part, which they soon find out is that Akira isn’t like them. He’s been raised in a glass house, and is “soft,” quiet unlike the 3 of them, which proves to change their lives as they once knew it. –Fuji TV

Cast
Main Cast
Katori Shingo (香取慎吾) as Maeda Zen
Matsuoka Mitsuru (松岡充) as Yamada Taro
Kato Koji (加藤浩次) as Otsubo Ken
Suga Kenta (須賀健太) as Igarashi Akira
Hoshino Mari (星野真里) as Sakaki Nozomi
Konishi Manami (小西真奈美) as Mizusaki Hanako
Ryo (りょう) / Miyada Yumiko (宮田ゆみ子) as Hyuga Yu
Jinnai Takanori (陣内孝則) as Hyuga Ryuichi
Brother Tom (ブラザートム ) / Koyanagi Tom (小栁富) as Harry
Okayama Hajime (おかやまはじめ) as Kuwabara Akira
Oshima Yoko (大島蓉子) as Sento Owner
Ohgo Suzuka (大後寿々花) as Kameyama Rika
Ishii Kota (石井康太)
Kyo Shinsuke (京晋佑)
Takahashi Takuji (高橋拓自)
Aoki Kazuyo (青木和代)
Tsubaki Funako (椿鮒子)
Seki Keisuke (積圭祐)

Chapter 3

Zac was gone when I woke up the next morning. Somewhat disappointed but not surprised, I got out of bed and walked into the bathroom. I nearly fell backwards when I saw that he had not left without leaving a note. Written in lipstick, in the top right corner of my bathroom mirror was: I didn’t want to wake you. I’ll see you later. Love, Zac.
I just smiled and climbed into the shower. I washed my hair and took in the steam and smell of the shampoo. After taking more time than really needed, I climbed out and stood in the bathroom rubbing lotion on and drying my hair. I straightened my hair with the flatiron and used gel to hold it in place. My hair was to the middle of my back, naturally curly and somewhat thick; meaning that if I wanted any kind of tameness to it, I had to put time into the process of styling. I put on some lip gloss and a bit of perfume after brushing my teeth. I threw on a pair of cut off jeans and a tank top. Then began the hated task of cleaning. God, my room was a wreck!
Afterwards, as I drank a cup of coffee, Isaac came over. I opened the door and moved over, motioning for him to come in. He smiled and walked over to the couch where he sat with a flop. “Everything ok?” I asked raising an eyebrow at him. He smiled and said “Yep, just really crazy at home. Hey, I wanna ask you something.” I walked over and sat in the chair and looked at him. Had I known what he wanted to ask I would’ve changed the subject. “What is it that you and Zac do while he’s here?”
I glared at him suddenly realizing that the seriousness of our relationship was not a secret to every member of the Hanson family. “Isaac, what has he told you?” He squinted at me and replied “What he has told us doesn’t matter. I’m asking you.” Oh No! Did he just say ‘us…’ yes he did. I felt a slight hitch in my chest. “Well, we… ya know, talk and we really like spending time together, that’s all.”
“That’s all?” he asked raising his eyebrows in disbelief. I nodded. When our eyes met, I knew that he knew everything and was waiting for me to tell him the truth. “Melissa,” he sighed before continuing, “We all really like you. I’m not stupid and neither are my parents. You just completely repeated Zac’s answer to the same question word for word. Now, please, we know what’s going on but the fact that neither of you will admit it worries us and makes us think that the two of you are so ashamed about what you’re doing because you know how my parents feel about it. But I’m not my parents. I can’t tell you how many time Karen and I met secretly. Please just admit it. I’m telling you it’ll be a lot easier for everyone.” I stared at him, taking in everything that he had said. I was surprised that he had said it but not surprised that he knew it. “I love him Isaac.” He nodded and said “Well, that’s good. I think he loves you too. But Zac is not an easy person to love. In fact he makes it very hard to love him sometimes. I just don’t want either of you to end up hurt.” I smiled as he leaned forward and put his hand on my shoulder. He smiled back and then got up and walked out.
I leaned forward with my elbows on my knees and my forehead in my hands. God, why was this so hard. It should be easy. I felt guilty and terrible for hiding from everyone. I knew Zac and I needed to talk. I was very nervous about bringing up the fact that maybe we needed to slow down. I realized we hadn’t thought about everything and were moving too fast.
That night, I sat on the couch, sipping wine and waiting in silence. My stomach turned and fluttered. When he knocked on the door, I simply took a deep breath and said “Come on in.” He opened it and slowly and closed it quickly not taking his hand away until it was locked.
“Hey sexy lady.” he said with a wink as he walked over and sit next to me. “Hi. Want some wine or something else to drink?” I asked as I stood up. He shook his head and followed me into the kitchen. As I stood pouring another glass for myself, I felt his hands on my hips and his breath on my neck. “Zac please not tonight, ok?” I said moving away from him and downing half the glass in one gulp. He crossed his arms over his chest and leaned against the counter. I heard him sigh and turned to face him. “What’s wrong baby?” he asked with worry on his face and in his voice. I took another drink and rubbed my forehead. Yep, I was in for a hangover. It never took much. “Mel, sweetheart tell me what’s wrong.” he said as he walked toward me and put his hands on my arms, pulling me into a hug. I hugged him just for a second and then walked back into the living room with my glass in one hand and the half empty wine bottle in the other.
When I sat on the couch I poured yet another full glass and took a drink before noticing him standing by the chair looking down at me. “Zac do you love me?” I asked. He ran a hand through his hair and sit down beside me. “I do. Very much.” he said without looking at me. I took another drink and asked “Why don’t we stop for a while and spend more time with each other during the day and less time together at night.” I looked over to see mixed emotions on his face as he glared at me. “What?! Where is this coming from?!” he raised his voice in anger and shock. “Well, I just thought…” I was interrupted when he suddenly blurted out “What the hell did Isaac say to you?!” I watched with surprise as he stood up and began pacing back and forth in front of me. “Nothing really. He just said that they were not stupid and that he didn’t want either of us to get hurt and that…”
I was interrupted again by an anger display that I had never seen before. Zac’s eyes glazed over as he ran his hands franticly through his hair. He paced and began yelling “That stupid jackass! Dammit, why the hell can’t he stay the fuck out of my life! It’s nobody’s god damn business what I do or what we do. I’m so sick of this shit, it never stops. If it’s not him and Taylor, it’s my parents! God dammit! Why can’t they understand that I’m grown and just stay out of my business? They never can just accept that I’m happy and let it go without trying to fuck everything up!”
I suddenly felt my headache get worse. “Zac, please don’t yell. I’m sure he didn’t understand. He wasn’t trying to do any harm.” Zac stopped and glared at me. His arms crossed over his chest, a fire in his eyes that I knew was not like I’d ever seen before. He was angry beyond reasoning. He turned and walked to the door. Opening it, he looked back at me and said calmly “No one will ever take you away from me.” He turned and walked out slamming the door.
I sit for awhile in silence, shocked, and in fear of what was going to happen. I could only imagine the explosion taking place at the Hanson’s. After finishing the last bit of wine in my glass, I went and laid on my bed. God knows I was not a graceful drunk and needed to get in bed before I went over to try and help calm Zac down. I wanted to do that, no doubt all hell had broken loose when he walked through his front door, but had quickly realized that walking in their house drunk would only add to the surprise and would not be in our best interest knowing that everything was about to be put in the open for the family. As I laid there in my bed, the room spinning and a powerful headache now going full blast, I thought of Isaac’s words about Zac not making it easy to love him. I wondered if that temper was something I could live with. I found myself drifting father and father until my mind was blank.
I felt as though I’d been asleep for no more than twenty minutes, when I was woken up by a frantic and loud knock. I crawled out of bed and noticed that the bright, early morning sun was peering it’s way through the window.
I rubbed my eyes as I stumbled to the front door. “Diana, Avery, hi.” I said sleepily as I opened the door wider for them to step inside. Once they did Diana asked “Melissa, have you seen Zac?” There was a worry in her face and a tone in her voice that told me something was very wrong. “Umm, no. Not since last night. He left here in a hurry and went home I guess. I fell asleep. Why?”
She looked at me and I saw tears in her eyes. “He came home last night and laid into all of us. He was so angry and I’ve never heard him do so much screaming. He was going on about us not wanting him to be happy and that we needed to mind our own business.” She took a deep breath, then continued “He was acting like he was on something. He was pacing around, swearing, and telling us that he was grown and could do what he wanted. Of course he was talking in a different language but that’s what he said without me using his words. Then he just told us to stay out of his life and walked out. We heard him leave in his car and thought we’d let him cool off. We waited for him but at around two in the morning, we figured he’d just come here and we could talk to him today.” I sighed deeply. “Jessica came in this morning from getting the paper and said his car wasn’t here. Ike and Taylor are driving around looking for him and Walker is calling his friends. Avery and I are going to the hospital to see if he had an accident and was brought in. Please call me if you hear from him.” I nodded as she handed me the paper with her cell number written on it. She walked out and they got in her car and sped off.
I closed the door and went to the kitchen to get a cup of coffee. After my second cup, I walked over to the Hanson’s and sit with the younger kids so that Walker could make some phone calls to some local hotels. The family was worried and stressed and the kids were anxious and their curiosity was doing more harm than good.

After the day was at an end with no word from Zac, the family was more worried than anything. I promised to call if I heard from him and I walked back over to my house. It was getting dark and I wondered how long he would be gone. I knew he was upset but it had to have passed by now.
I’d spent the day babysitting while everyone tried to think of places he could be. Tori and Karen had gone to a friend’s house to see her new baby and had said they’d call if they heard from him. Ike and Taylor were beyond exhausted. Diana was thankful that no hospital had any record of him being brought in but it also seemed to worry her more. Walker had also called three different police stations, none of which had any reports of an accident. Zoe had fallen asleep after her supper and Mac was slowly drifting off. Jessica was staying with a friend and Avery was watching a movie on the couch. Diana and Walker were in the kitchen talking in low voices when I had gone in there and told them I was going to go home. Walker had patted my back and Diana gave me hug, both of them thanking me.
As I sit in the living room of my house, I wondered where he could have gone. It seemed as though we’d called and been everywhere. We’d talked to police stations, hospitals, hotels, all of his friends, neighbors, people at local clubs and even the pastors at two churches. “Oh Zac, where are you?” I asked out loud as I leaned back on the couch. I rubbed my face and walked into the kitchen. I heated a TV dinner and grabbed a coke. Then sit on the couch watching the news and the clock.
At around ten thirty, I decided to go take a bath. I was sweaty and had been in the same clothes for two days. I walked into the bathroom closing the door and started the water. I poured in my favorite bath beads and bubbles. Then I brushed my hair and turned the water off. I stepped into the bath, breathing in the steam and enjoying the warm water around me. I washed my hair and used my favorite body wash. I took time to shave my legs with a new razor and a thick shaving cream that smelled like coconut. After rinsing my body and pulling the plug, I grabbed a towel and wrapped it around me, stepping out and wiping my hand over the mirror to clear the fog away. I sat on the side of the tub and rubbed lotion all over. Then dried my hair and pulled it up in a ponytail. I brushed my teeth and walked out.
“Oh shit!” I exclaimed with a jump as I walked into my bedroom. “Nice to see you too.” Zac smiled as he laid on my bed with a bottle of beer in his hand. He slowly got up and walked toward me. “What are you doing here?” I asked still holding my hand over my heart. He took my hand and led me to the bed saying “I’ve been drinking, I need a ride.” I looked at him as an evil grin crept over his face. “No Zac, not tonight. Where have you been?”
He pushed me down on the side of the bed and knelt in front of me. He didn’t have a shirt on and his breath smelt like strong beer. He was somewhat unsteady and I knew right away that he was drunk. He started rubbing my leg and smiling an almost disturbing smile. “Mmmm damn baby, you are so sexy. I love the fell of freshly shaved legs.” I pushed his hands away and said “I promised I’d call your parents when I heard from you.” I reached for the phone but was stopped by a very deep, hard kiss. When he pulled away he grabbed the phone and dialed a number. Walking over and shutting my bedroom door he turned and leaned with his back on the door facing me as I sat on the bed. “Mom…? Yeah mom I’m fine… no… no I’m ok, I promise… no I’m fine, I just needed to get away for a bit… I promise mom. I’m sorry about what happened. Tell everyone I’m sorry. I’m here at Melissa’s and I’ll be home soon, Ok… yeah… uh-huh, I know we have to… I will… Love you too, bye.” He hung up and laid the phone on the chair.
He looked up and smiled at me. Then he walked over to me and pulled me to my feet. He began kissing me, hard and hungry. “Zac,” I tried pushing him away but it was useless. He held me and kissed my neck and face as hard as he had my lips. “Zac please don’t.” I whined. He didn’t stop but held me tighter. He threw me on the bed and tore his jeans off.
As I moved to get up he grabbed me and came down on top of me. I tried to fight him off, nearly in tears. “Zac please. Don’t. Please Zac stop!” I screamed at him but it was like he didn’t even hear me. He raised up on his knees and ripped the towel open. He took my wrist and pinned one on each side of my face as he leaned down and kissed me with a frantic desire and desperation. I felt his breath hot on my body as he licked my breasts and bit at my neck and ear. I began to cry a little as I continued to scream over and over “Zac stop! Please don’t.” But it didn’t do any good. He took his boxers off and pinned me down again. He was strong and heavy. As I felt him push into me I screamed out “NO ZAC! STOP!” This caused him to let go of one of my hands and put his free hand over my mouth. He still held me down with his other hand on my wrist. I continued to scream but his hand pressed harder over my mouth. I tried to move but he was too strong and no doubt the drunken state he was in gave him more strength. I cried out as he thrust into me harder and harder. I was in pain from his uneasy pushing into me with more force each time. His hand was pressed so hard over my mouth that I couldn’t even move my lips anymore. I felt his fingers dig into my wrist. I tried to scream but hardly any sound was coming anymore. I felt tears roll down out of my eyes and the pain was intense. Harder and harder he pushed into me. His breathing was heavy and he was sweating. I could smell the alcohol on his breath and taste the sweat on his hand. His fingers dug into my wrist harder and more forceful as the sweat caused them to slip.
Because of the fight I’d already put up and the pain and crying, I couldn’t even move let alone try to get him off of me. I just laid there crying silently. The screaming and crying had caused my throat to become sore and raw and my vision was blurred through the tears as they seemed to come faster than they could fall. I winced in pain and closed my eyes, willing it to be over, as his final and hardest thrusts brought on a climax and he collapsed onto me. He eased the grip on my wrist and slid my hand above my head as he laced our fingers together. As his hand slid off of my mouth I felt the tingling around it but I still could not speak. His fingers slid down before they rested on my neck. He was breathless and sweating a lot as he lay on top of me. I was sore and hurting all over from his forcefulness and energy. He slowly moved up and kissed my neck then my lips, easy this time, like he’d always done. He then rolled off of me and laid next to me on the bed. His hand began rubbing my stomach as I laid there silent and shaking. He ran his fingers through my hair a few times and then leaned over and kissed me again.
He got up and dressed quickly. After getting dressed he took the bottle of beer he had sit on the nightstand and took a drink. He then bent down and kissed me. As he stood up again I asked through my tears with a shaky voice just above a whisper, “Why?” He walked toward the door and I turned onto my side to face him. I pulled the towel out from under me and wrapped it around my body. I watched him for a moment and as another tear fell I asked “Zac, why did you hurt me?”
He turned and looked at me smiling, a drunk and satisfied smile, and said “Don’t be so dramatic. You enjoyed it as much as I did.” Then without another word he walked out and closed the door. I heard the front door open and then closed with a slam.
When I knew he was gone, I slowly got up, barely able to move and wrapped the towel around me. I slowly walked to the front door and locked it then went back to my room and crawled into bed. I pulled the blanket up around me and cried myself to sleep.

I had willed myself up and into the shower later that morning. I was sore and hurting all over. I had a bruises on my wrist and all around my mouth was a deep red and my throat was still sore. I washed off and let the hot water relax my muscles. I got out and pulled on some jeans and a t-shirt.
I sat on my couch, drinking water and thinking about everything that had happened in the days before. I loved Zac and yet he had hurt me in a way that seemed unforgivable. I wondered if I would ever be able to be around him again. I could barely walk to the door when I heard a knock. I prayed it wasn’t Zac. I sighed relieved when I saw Ike and Diana standing there. I stepped back and without a word, they stepped inside and sat side by side on the couch. I closed the door and asked “You guys want something to drink?” They both shook their heads.
I noticed a small, white square envelope in Diana’s hands that was packed full of something but didn’t ask about it. I walked over and sat in the chair next to the couch. “Mel, honey,” Diana said leaning forward, she sat the envelope down on the small coffee table, “I was wondering if you were ok.” I sighed and nodded “Yeah, I’m fine. Why?”
Isaac leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees and lacing his fingers together. “Are you sure?” he asked, “What happened to your wrist?”
I glanced at him and asked “What?” Diana grabbed my fingers making me jerk. When she gently pulled my hand toward her she said “Your wrist. These bruises here. What happened?”
Ike looked at me and asked “And your mouth? What happened last night Melissa?” He and Diana sit and stared at me as I tried to come up with an answer. God how could I tell them what really happened? I quickly came up with something that was somewhere between the truth and a lie. “Oh, well, Zac and me… we just got a bit rough last night.” I tried to smile shyly but the looks of concern on their faces told me that they didn’t buy a word of it.
“Melissa, Zac was drunk when he came home. He passed out and when we finally did get to talk to him all he could do was say he was sorry.” Diana looked down as Ike continued for her. “We know something happened here. Please, you don’t have to protect anybody. You can tell us please.” He reached over Diana and took my hand she had been holding. They both almost had tears in their eyes and I felt tears in mine as well.”Zac hurt you didn’t he?” Diana asked quietly. “He was drunk and he hurt you?”
I couldn’t hold the tears back anymore. I cried and nodded. When I looked up, Diana had tears coming down her face and Isaac just stared straight ahead with his hands folded and the back of his fingers on his mouth.
I told them everything. It all came pouring out and I told them about everything. “Melissa, you can’t see him anymore. He’s gonna hurt you worse next time. This isn’t the first time he’s done this.” Ike said. “But I love him. He didn’t mean to. If he hadn’t been drunk he would have never…”
Ike shook his head and said “But he gets drunk a lot. He’s gonna hurt you worse next time and you have to get away from him while you can.” I just shook my head as I looked down. “Melissa, look. Read these and look at the pictures.” Diana said handing my the envelope.
I slowly wiped away the tears and took the heavy envelope from her. I opened it and pulled out what seemed to be about twenty photos and a stack of writings on note paper. The writing seemed to be notes taken on different days. They told of abuse, rape, harsh words I couldn’t imagine someone saying to another human, drunken lash outs and details of times spent locked in rooms and closets. I read them quietly and then asked “What are these? Who wrote them?” Diana took the glass of water Ike had offered her and took a sip. He took his seat next to her with his own half full glass. They both looked away. I slowly began thumbing through the pictures.
They were of a young girl that appeared to be in her late teens. Two photos were of her… happy. One of her in a bathing suit with her legs hanging over a chair arm and another was a close-up showing just her shoulders and head with her hair pulled up and she was smiling. She had green eyes and tanned skin. Her hair was dark and long.
The other photos showed her with no smile but on the verge of tears, pain in her dark, heavy eyes. They were photos of a busted lip, a bruised jaw and cheek, legs covered in bruises and what seemed to be red rashes as though tape had been around her ankles. Her wrist were bruised and deep red and she had black eyes and blue and purple finger marks on her arms. She had a cut above her eyebrow and deep red marks on her neck.
The pictures were taken at different times but were all of the same girl.
I felt tears in my eyes as I looked at Isaac and Diana. “Who is this?” I asked. Ike looked up at me and sighed. “That’s the girl Zac loved so much. That’s the girl he swore to never hurt. That’s the girl everyone tried to protect from him.” Diana took my hands and said “Taylor said he mentioned her to you. Her name is Courtney. She was Zac’s girlfriend. They were together for a long time.”
I stood and threw the pictures on the table. “NO! Zac didn’t do this!!”
Ike stood up and took my hands saying, “Yes he did. He hurt her. He almost killed her. She was lucky enough to have gotten away from him.” I jerked away and yelled “NO! What are you trying to do. Zac said no one will ever take me away from him. He loves me. If he hadn’t been drunk, nothing would have happened. So he made a mistake and now you are trying to make me break up with him?!” Diana stood up and yelled “No we’re not. We just don’t want you getting hurt. Please, stay away from him.” I opened the door and yelled “GET OUT! Zac and I will always be together!”
They stood for a moment and with tears in their eyes slowly walked out. I slammed the door and fell onto the floor and cried. About twenty minutes later, I got up and walked over to the table and put the pictures and notes back into the envelope and carried them into the kitchen and got a glass of water. I left the envelope on the counter and went into the bedroom. I laid in bed and alternated between crying and watching TV. I laid across the bed and tried to think about what to do. I had become almost convinced that they were trying to keep me and Zac apart. I wasn’t thinking clearly and had not yet come to the conclusion that what Zac had done, though drunk, was wrong. I was using him being drunk to justify what his actions. I kept telling myself he was angry, he felt that his family was trying to ruin his happiness.

I had at some point fell asleep and wasn’t sure for how long. I also wasn’t sure what had woken me up. I had wet drops on my t shirt from the tears and my face was red and puffy. I walked into the bathroom and splashed some cold water on my face. As I brought the towel lower when I was drying off, I noticed the redness and swelling was almost completely gone from my mouth and the bruise on my wrist was fading. My throat was no longer sore and I wasn’t in as much pain. I was able to walk better. I slowly opened the bedroom door and walked into the living room.
I stopped in my steps when I heard his voice say “Hi sleeping beauty.” I looked up and Zac was walking toward me with his arms out. He embraced me in a gentle hug and immediately started crying. I put my arms around him and he slid to the floor on his knees, his arms wrapped tightly around my waist. I held onto the back of his neck and softly ran my fingers through his hair. I felt tears falling down my face.
His words were strained through his sobs. “Baby, oh God baby. I love you. I love you, don’t leave me. Oh God, I’m sorry! I’m so sorry! I’ll never hurt you again I swear! I love you baby. I’m so, so sorry!” I just held him and waited for him to compose himself. When he finally let go of me, he took my hands and looked up. Both of us had tears falling and I didn’t know what I was supposed to say. “Zac, I know you didn’t mean to. I love you and I’m not gonna leave.”
He got to his feet and hugged me tightly, then pulled away and kissed my lips softly. He kissed my eyes, my nose, my forehead and cheeks then my lips again and finally pulled me into another hug. He was gentle and his eyes filled with regret and sadness. He softly whispered into my ear “I need you. I need you to want me again.” He began softly kissing my neck. I tilted my head back as my hands rested on the back of his shoulders. He took full advantage of the unlimited access he now had to my neck. He kissed softly all over both sides and I felt his tongue lick slowly across my throat. His hands went up and down my back with a passionate pressure.
As he began kissing my lips again, I dug into his back with my fingernails. A light groan came from his lips and he suddenly and gently took me to the floor. His hands touched me as though they’d never touched anyone. He kissed me and began to take my shirt up and over my head. Once it was off he began kissing my stomach and chest.He slowly slid his finger tips under my bra straps and as he pulled them off, his lips followed them. I began kissing his neck and face. He raised up on his knees and slowly pulled off his shirt. He came closer and kissed me and then pulled me to my feet as he too stood up. “C’mere baby. Oh my sweet, sexy angel, I’ve missed you!” he said as he smiled and picked me up.
He carried me to the bedroom where he easily kicked the cracked door open the rest of the way and then leaned on it to shut it again. He carried me over to the bed and laid me down. He took my bra off and then climbed on top of me and began to tug at my jeans while kissing me. His tongue and mouth was so warm and he smelled of my favorite men’s cologne and coffee. He unzipped my jeans and slowly pulled them off.His hands slowly went up and down my legs and as he pulled my panties off he stood up. “God, you’re beautiful.” he said. He smiled as he took off his jeans and socks. He pulled the blanket back on the unmade bed and ushered me under it then climbed in next to me. He put his arms around me and pulled me close as we kissed each other and I slowly rolled on top of him and pulled his boxers off. I giggled playfully as I threw them on the floor. He smiled and ran his hand threw my hair as he shifted on his back. I took him into my mouth and a sound almost like a scream escaped him as his closed his eyes and tilted his head back. He grabbed my face and pulled me up on top of him and we both let out deep moans as he slid into me. I whined a bit and he reached up and took my face in his hands. “Does it hurt? We can stop if it hurts.” he said breathless. I looked into his eyes and saw the new concern and the gentleness that had always been there. “No, it’s ok.” I said barely able to breathe. God I just wanted him so bad. I slowly began to move as his hands gripped my back and then my thighs as we became desperate. The movements faster and the sweat appearing on both of us. Suddenly a release that brought pure and deep satisfaction to us both. I fell onto him and was immediately turned over to have him on top and kissing me again. He lifted his head and I had a hand on each side of his neck. He looked at me for a moment then kissed my forehead.
Before either of us caught our breath he asked “Are you sure it didn’t hurt you?” I just shook my head and whispered “It didn’t.” He then gave me a long, deep kiss.”I love you. “he said as he laid his head on my shoulder.” I love you too. “I whispered. “Mmmm, I think we need a shower.” he said as he rolled off of me and onto the bed. “Ok. I’ll go take one first, then you can take one.”
I giggled as I walked into the bathroom. I was about two minutes into my shower when I felt arms slid around me. “Oh dammit!” I shouted as I turned and was met with a deep, passionate kiss. “Now, I don’t remember saying anything about you getting in first.” he said seriously. We spent the next hour washing each other and kissing under the warm water. When we did get out, I grabbed a towel and wrapped it around me then walked to the mirror but before I could wipe it off he spun me around to face him. “Uh-uh.” he said shaking his head, “We gotta get rid of this thing. “he smiled as he jerked the towel off of me and sit me on the edge of the sink. He dropped to his knees and spread my legs apart, putting one over his shoulder and taking my ankle to lift my foot upon the sink. He mouth took hold of me. I felt his lips move over me with a hunger. His tongue licked up and down and in every crease as his lips covered me. I began to scream and whine with excitement and desperate desire. He suddenly stopped and pulled me onto the floor. He gently slid into me and moved with ease and passion then a release took him and he fell onto me. “Oh God Zac!” I nearly screamed as I dug my nails into his flesh and slowly scratched along the back of his shoulders. His fingers found me and slid inside as I sucked in a breath. I reached a pleasurable climax and I felt myself tighten around his fingers. We lay on the floor breathless until finally moving to the bed where we kissed and touched for another hour.
“I want to stay here forever.” he whispered as we lay facing each other. “Then stay. Don’t ever leave.” I said lacing our fingers together. He ran his finger down my face and onto my neck. “My family will be moving into the new house soon. I really want to stay here with you. They’ll only be moving 12 miles away. You and I could just live here. Maybe we should go over there and tell them that.” I sighed and nodded. He pulled me in close and I once again felt the comfort and safety of his arms. Just before drifting off though, I once again glanced at the fading bruise on my wrist.
I thought about Isaac’s words: It’ll be worse next time. No, I wouldn’t let myself think that way. I settled into Zac’s embrace and fell into a deep sleep.
I often think of that day now. Now that it’s too late. If only I had known what would happen as time went on…

The next two weeks were fairly uneventful. Zac and I began to slow down a bit and spent only two nights in bed. He still came over and spent the night with me, but we’d fall asleep watching TV or movies. He was a perfect gentleman and I felt as though I was in paradise. True to his word, he hadn’t hurt me anymore. He was the kind, sweet, and gentle person he’d been before that night. He hadn’t had any violent outburst or been drunk since and his rare anger was always controlled and disappeared quickly.
I have to say though that us walking into the Hanson’s did draw attention from Ike and Diana when they saw us, our hands tightly clasped with our fingers interlocked. The stares we got from Walker, Taylor, Karen and Tori told us that they had all been fully informed.
Things were busy around their home though. Soon, they would be moving into the larger house they’d been having built for almost a year. Zac took me to see it once. It was in another, more private area of Tulsa, in a subdivision that was behind a huge, black, iron gate and a security station. The only way to gain entrance was to have a card that was only given by one of the residents and a photo ID of some sort.
The house sat on almost 80 acres behind a white fence. It was brick with white trim and a huge in ground pool out back. The porch was twice the size of the one they had at their current house and the rooms were enormous. They had a studio that was equipped with an enclosed sound booth and wall to wall sound boards. The home had been beautifully decorated and had a guest unit with bedroom, sitting area, bathroom and full kitchen, there was also another guest room downstairs. Everyone would have their own rooms and they had a huge sun porch, sunken living room and gigantic kitchen.
“Are you sure you wouldn’t rather live here?” I had asked Zac on our way back .”No, I told you I wanted to stay with you.” September came quickly and with it, helping Diana prepare the children to begin their school lessons again. It was hard getting them out of the summer break and back into studying. They fell into it fairly fast though. The Hanson’s had finally gotten their things packed to move. No one had been thrilled with idea of Zac staying and we had sat in the living room, exchanging reasons, for almost two hours before all of us had settled on a decision… Zac would go live at the new house but could come and see me regularly and I was an “always welcome guest.” They all agreed it would be easier for him to be on time for writing and recording sessions if he lived with his brothers.
“It’s only a few miles to drive.” I whispered in his ear. I had helped them move into their home and Zac and I were hugging in the driveway when it was time for me to leave them. “I feel like we’re breaking up,” he said letting go of me as he began to rub my arms. “Oh Zac, we’re not breaking up. There’s no reason for you to feel that way.” After our good-byes, I started the 40 minute drive home. My mind raced with the events that had taken place over the last three weeks. Zac and I had spent everyday together; swimming, walks and picnics in the park, movies, museums, amusement parks, shopping trips, even a day at a drag race. We had so much fun. We knew everything about each other from how old we were when we got our first kiss to the stories of scars. As I walked into my house I was hit by the cool air and the sounds of the TV. I had a message on my answering machine from Zac saying that he missed me and a message from Lacey, saying that her boyfriend, Ricky, had proposed. I quickly called her back.
“Melissa, it was wonderful,” she said. “He took me to the movies and lunch and then to the lake where we met and had our first date the next week…” I smiled listening to her story. Lacey and Ricky had been together for a year in May and were more in love than any couple I’d ever seen. Ricky was somewhat of a ladies man around his hometown. He was tall with deep brown eyes and short dark hair. He worked for a building supply company as an assistant manager. His reputation changed quickly though following that day last May. Lacey and I had been at the lake and a strong gust of wind came by. When she flipped her head to get her long, red hair out of her face, their eyes had met as he was walking by. He commented on the weather and then on Lacey’s blue eyes and she had commented on his abs. (He didn’t have a shirt on, he was cooling down from a jog) and they’ve been together ever since. “…and I said that you would be my Maid of Honor.” Lacey’s last words shook me from my thoughts. “So,” she continued “You grab that Zac by the hair and y’all get your butts on a plane! We want to meet him and Ricky is going nuts wanting to see you again.” I sighed and promised we’d come for a visit as soon as Zac had some time off. He’d been wanting to meet Lacey and Ricky and had already mentioned he and I going to spend a few days with them.
“Really? That’s cool. I’d love to go.” Zac and I were on the phone the next day and I was telling him of Lacey’s news. “Great. Lacey said the date is December fifth and she wants us there a few days before, like right after Thanksgiving, to help with final arrangements and for me to be at the bridal shower.” Zac was quiet while someone talked in the background. “Ok, be right there.” was his reply, then he said “Yeah Mel, that sounds good. Umm, we’ll talk some more and figure out the plane tickets and stuff. But I have to go right now, ok.” I answered “Ok. Talk to you tomorrow.” Zac laughed a bit and replied “Of course. I’ll call you tomorrow night. I love you.” I sighed as I heard those words. He always said them close to the phone and almost a seductive whisper. “I love you too. Talk to you tomorrow. Bye.” I could tell he was smiling when he said “Bye.”

*Chapter 2 / Chapter 4*
*Go Back to Chapters Index*

This fictional story is hosted at The Gifted Ones,
with permission from the author Chelle.

Chapter 02

I nearly went back home twice. I mean, we’ve only known each other for a few days and what was I going to say anyway. “Zac I love you!” Yeah, that would sure get his attention. I felt my stomach become one huge knot as I slowly walked. Was I stalling? No, I was just trying to think. Who was Courtney? Must’ve been somebody close for Taylor to know I was better for Zac. I sighed… I knew tomorrow wasn’t going to be easier so I had to talk to him today and just tell him that I really liked him. If it went well, and he was single, I’d just come right out and ask him on a date. I hadn’t been on a date since I was 16. “God, how am I gonna tell him? What am I gonna say?” I began thinking out loud as I walked over to the Hansons.
I knocked on the door, willing myself not to turn back. “Melissa, hi sweetheart. C’mon in.” Diana held open the door for me.
“Hi Diana. Is Zac around?” She looked at me confused for a moment. I’m sure she could see the nervousness on my face. “Yeah, he just woke up. Jessica!” Jess came in from the kitchen and smiled. “Go tell Zac that Melissa needs to see him.” Diana ushered me over to the couch. “Zaccc! Melissa’s here!” Jessica called going upstairs.
Diana smiled at me and patted my hand gently. “We were so worried about you. How are you doing?” I smiled at her motherly tone. “I’m fine, really. Just feels a little weird.” Diana nodded.
“Hey,” Zac said yawning, “Whatcha doing?” I smiled and answered “Hi. Not
much. Can I talk to you for a bit? It’s kinda important.” He wrinkled his eyebrows and nodded. Then he motioned for me to come into the kitchen with him. “How’s your hand?” he asked.
“It’s fine.” I smiled and he said “C’mon, let’s go out here.”
We walked over to the back door and walked out on the deck. He sit down on one of the steps leading off the deck and into the backyard. As I sit beside him he asked “What do you wanna talk about?”
I sighed. “Well,” I began, “First of all, tell me about Courtney.” He glared at me as if I had an arm growing out of my face. “Who told you about her?” It was obvious that I’d hit a sore spot. “Well, Taylor mentioned…” I started to answer but was cut off “Ahh, leave it to Tay.” Zac said. After a moment of silence he continued, “Well,” he sighed, “I guess I’ll tell you plain and simple, unlike it really was. Courtney was my girlfriend. For almost two years. Then one day, I went to her house. I hadn’t seen her for a couple of days. I was worried and didn’t know why. So I went over there and she was making out with some guy in her driveway. Turns out that this guy had been her boyfriend for as long as she’d been dating me. I have never been so angry or hurt in my life. So we broke up, right then and there. We got into a argument in her front yard and I left and haven’t seen or spoken to her since. That was a little over a year ago.”
I felt a slight hitch in my chest. I really didn’t know what to say except “I’m sorry you had to go through that. I understand how much that hurts.” He looked over at me. “I don’t talk about her much. Sorta makes that day come back ya know?” I nodded and replied “Yeah, I get it. I won’t bring it up again. I just… ya know, when Taylor said that I just…” I looked at him as he completed my sentence “Thought I was with someone?” I nodded. “It’s ok. That’s about it for Courtney. I’m not with anybody. But I’m sure that’s not all you wanted to talk about. So what’s got your stomach in knots?” He grinned at me. “What do you mean?” I asked giving him a confused look. “Melissa, it’s written all over your face.” he laughed. “C’mon, tell me.” he said giving me a nudge.
“Ok.” I sighed, “Well, it’s that I know we’ve only known each other for a few days and I know this may seem weird and sudden but…” I was interrupted by Zac laughing again. “What?” I asked, a bit annoyed. “Did you know you blush a lot when you’re around a guy and you want to ask him out?” He laughed again as I felt my face get redder.”I… I… uhh…” I couldn’t seem to talk anymore. I was embarrassed but more surprised. “Melissa?” he said softly. “Huh?” I answered with the only thing I could seem to get out. “You wanna go out sometime? Maybe we could have dinner tomorrow night?”
I heard the words but I kept trying to figure out if I’d heard what I thought I did. “Melissa?” Zac looked at me. “Yeah, yeah Zac. I’ll go out with you.” I smiled when I saw him blush.
“Zac, Tay and Ike are waiting. “Diana stuck her head out of the back door. “Ok, mom.” Zac answered standing up. He held out his hand and helped me up. We walked inside and Zac said, “I have to go to a meeting today with our producer but I’ll come over when we get back.” I nodded as he and I walked to the
door. “Ok, see you then.”
I walked out the front door and back over to my house. Wow, I had a date. A date with a great guy that I really liked. As I got back inside my house, I sat on the couch and picked up the phone. I dialed the number and on the fourth ring I got Lacey’s voice mail. I rolled my eyes as I listened:
“Howdy. This is Lacey and I can’t take your call but if you’ll leave a message I’ll call back when I get the chance. And please, no heavy breathing!”
“Lace! It’s Mel. I have a date with a fantastic guy tomorrow night! Call me back, bye.” Then just before I hung up, I breathed heavy into the mouthpiece a couple times and giggled. Then I replaced the phone back into it’s cradle and began to clean the house. I was planning to paint the bathroom when my hand healed. I couldn’t help but spend a few minutes looking at the newly painted bedroom. “What a difference.” I said to myself. And it was. In fact, everything was about to be different.

“Melissa! Who are you going out with?!” Lacey screamed into the phone. She had returned my call while I was doing laundry. “His name is Zac. The neighbor I told you about,” I answered. Lacey’s voice had calmed now.
“Do I know him?” she asked. Lacey had spent a few years living in Tulsa.
“Well,” I was somewhat hesitant to say anything, but continued. “He’s Zac Hanson. Remember?” She sighed and I could almost see her expression over the phone. “The drummer from the band? Didn’t they, like, quit?” she finally asked. “Yes and sorta. He said they are recording new songs.” I replied. “Oh,” Lacey sounded a bit confused. “Well, what are they like now?” I sighed as I took a load of clothes out of the dryer. “Normal really. They look a bit different. But I haven’t heard any of the new songs yet sooo…”
I sat on the couch and started folding the laundry. Lacey said “Well, I hope you have a good time. Listen, I gotta go but call me tomorrow night ok?” I put a folded shirt on the pile and said “Ok. Talk to you then. Bye Lace.” I heard a quick “Bye.” And then we hung up. I finished folding the clothes and had taken them to my bedroom and put them away.
I was beginning to clean the kitchen when there was a frantic, loud knock on my door. I cautiously walked into the living room and over to the door. Looking outside I saw Zac, sweaty and anxious-looking, pacing up and down in front of the door. I quickly opened it. “Zac, what’s the matter?!” I asked, shocked by his expression.
He walked into my house quickly and shouted “The stupid jackass has been going behind our backs! We’re screwed! It’s over! Dammit, I swear if I could just get my hands on him I’d kill that lying son of a bitch!”
I had never seen such anger on one person before. “Zac,” I said calmly, “come over here and sit down.” I ushered him to the couch and then got him a glass of water. After he’d taken a few sips, I asked quietly, “Do you want to talk about it? I’d like to know what has you so worked up.”
He looked up at me and ran his hands through his hair. He stood up and, taking my hand, led me back to the couch and pulled me down next to him. “Melissa, this is such a fucked up mess.” he said with his hands rubbing his face. “We had a meeting today with our producer and he told us that our manager hasn’t been paying him the money he’s already owed and that our contract with him now is no more than a piece of paper with a few signatures on it. We went to our manager’s office and got our finance records. We’ve just spent the last two hours with our accountant and the money that was supposed to be used for studio time and crew, our manager hasn’t paid to any of them. We owe the producer and two other band members for the recording we’ve done so far. God, how did things get so messed up? How could we let ourselves get screwed again? Shit, what are we gonna do now. The producer and other band members have backed out. They think we were behind it. They think we were dragging them along all this time with no intention to pay them a fucking penny!” I watched and saw worry and then more anger cross his face. He put his hands over his eyes and leaned back and sighed. “Tell me this is not happening. Just tell me I’m dreaming. Please, just say I’m dreaming.”
I felt so helpless, watching him. “Zac, I’m so sorry. I wish this wasn’t happening. Is there anything I can do to help you?”
He looked at me and smiled. “Yeah,” he answered sitting back up on the edge of the couch. “There is something. Rub my neck, please, it’s so stiff.” I put my hands on his neck and started to rub the knots out. “Mmmm, that’s better,” he said slowly as I too felt his muscles relax. “I knnowwww.” I said with a giggle. He looked over his shoulder at me, smiled and said “Smart ass.” We both laughed and then he said “Rub my shoulders too, please. Just very easy.” I began to rub both shoulders and he dropped his head down. I couldn’t help but smile. “So,” I tried to end the moments of silence, “Where are you taking me tomorrow night. ‘Cause you know I’m not that easy to please.” I smiled as did he. “Oh really?” he asked raising his eyebrows. “Don’t you worry little lady, I’ll take care of everything.” I smiled at him as he stood up and walked toward the door. “I’ll pick you up at 7. Be ready and dress in something pretty.” I giggled at his comment. “Ok,” I said as I walked toward him. With a quick goodbye hug he walked out and toward his house. I began to feel butterflies in my stomach. I knew that this was going to be the best date of my life. And it was.
From the beginning, Zac was a complete gentleman. He’d opened doors and pulled out my chair. He was funny and sweet and had commented on my dress four times. I had chosen a red wrap dress, black strap heels, and silver jewelry that included a pair of hoop earrings that Lacey had given me the year before for Christmas. I had debated on if my hair would be up or down. My bangs were long and often got in my face a bit too much for my tolerance. I had finally settled on pulling my bangs back with some more hair in a black hair clip, and leaving the rest down. “Wow!” had been Zac’s reaction as he’d looked me up and down twice at the door. Of course I couldn’t help but say the same thing about him. He was dressed in black slacks, black dress shoes and a button down blue shirt. We sat in the booth as soft piano music played, talking the whole time about everything, it seemed. We had a wonderful dinner and sipped wine.
When we left, Zac tipped the valet and drove me to a beautiful lake not far from our homes. We sit on the car and stared in amazement at the stars and moon. It was a warm night but there was a breeze blowing. Zac was holding my hand and suddenly had hopped off the car and went to the driver side. “Zac, what are you doing?” I asked as he opened both the passenger door and driver door. After a moment, I saw him smile at me and then suddenly, soft music came from the speakers. He walked over and held out his hand. I took it and hopped off the car. He pulled me close to him and slowly slid his hands around my waist. I put my hands on his shoulders and we danced to two songs before breaking apart.
Then we got back in his car and started home. He walked me to the door and had accepted my invitation to come inside for a little while. We were sitting on the couch talking and laughing. He glanced at his watch and said “I really need to get home.” As we stood and walked to the door, he said “I want to see you again. Can we spend the day together tomorrow?” I nodded and smiled saying “Sure, I’d like that.” He opened the door and a breeze blew inside. He gently reached up and brushed the hair out of my face. His hand then slid down to my chin. He lifted my head toward his and slowly leaned toward me. He was looking right into my eyes with a questionable expression on his face. I could tell he was wanting approval. I slowly nodded and he leaned in closer and kissed me. His lips were so soft and sweet. We stood embraced in a gentle kiss for a few moments. Then as he pulled away, no more than a few inches, he quietly said “I really better go.” I smiled and said “Yeah. You better.” He smiled at me and then walked out to his car. I knew if I watched him leave I’d try to stop him so as soon as he got to his car I closed the door. My stomach began to turn flips and all I could think about was that I wanted him to kiss me again… and not leave.

The next day, Zac woke me and took me to a diner for breakfast. We spent the morning at the lake and then drove to a small grocery store where we bought some snack foods and we had a picnic in the park. After a walk around the nearly deserted park, we went to a movie. That’s where it happened. Suddenly a young girl approached us and quietly asked “Are you Zac Hanson?” Zac glanced at me and then putting a finger over his lips he nodded.  She apparently didn’t catch his attempt to keep her quiet because she screamed out “Oh My God! It’s Zac Hanson!” We were rushed by a group of at least eight girls I guessed to be around 14 years old. They were screaming and shoving paper at him for his autograph. Most of them just gave me a death glare but one kept asking me questions over and over and between about 15 questions she managed to get “Are you Zac’s girlfriend?” in the mix a total of five times. I just shook my head and waited until the frenzy was over.
After they all left, Zac and I went in to watch the movie. We sit quietly and the tension was growing. As we walked to the car, Zac took my hand and brought it to his lips. He gently kissed the back of my fingers and said “I’m really sorry about that. I didn’t think that would happen honest.” I smiled and nodded as he opened the car door. We then drove back to my house after picking up some dinner and sat in the living room eating and watching TV. We were tired but had talked and laughed a lot throughout the day. After a few moments of silence, I asked “Zac, what’s gonna happen with your music?” He just shrugged and said “We’re trying to figure it out.” After dinner, Zac gave me a quick kiss and hug and then left. I then washed off my makeup and brushed my teeth and hair then went to bed.
Over the next week, Zac came over several times and helped me with something and twice I spent the day at their house, listening to some new songs, helping Diana with the kids and just watching TV. Zac took me to the doctor that Monday and my stitches had been taken out. The doctor warned me however that I didn’t need to be straining my hand by trying to open anymore paint cans.
I had dinner with Zac twice that week and had seen another movie (Without interruption) That weekend, after spending the day together again, he’d come over to my house and ordered pizza and had brought a movie. We’d tried watching it at his house but the kids were running around and we’d finally given up. After the movie and dinner, he left and I had taken a shower.
I had fallen asleep on the couch watching the news. I heard a knock on my door and I wasn’t sure if it was a dream or not but before I could open my eyes I felt a gentle shake on my knee. I slowly rolled completely on my back and opened my eyes. “Zac? What time is it?” I asked rubbing my eyes and trying to focus. He sat on the edge of the couch and rubbed my arm answering “It’s about 4:30 in the morning. I’m sorry to wake you.” By this time I was sitting up. I looked at him as he smiled. “It’s ok. Is anything wrong?” I asked, taking a drink from my bottle of water on the table. He shook his head and said “I just couldn’t sleep. I tried but I couldn’t fall asleep. I kept thinking…” his voice trailed off. “About what?” I asked, stretching. “What is it Zac?” He looked at me and laughed slightly. I smiled still unaware of what he was trying to say. “Melissa,” he turned toward me and took my hands, slowly rubbing his face against them he continued. “From the first time I ever saw you, you have been the only thing I can think about. I can’t sleep anymore and being around you, seeing you smile and hearing your laugh and voice, always makes my heart race. I feel like I’m falling in love with you and I need to know if I have a chance with you or if I’m bound for another heartbreak.”
I started at him, unable to speak as I tried to take in everything that he had said. I looked away as my mind raced with my heartbeat. I felt the same way about him. I’d thought of him constantly and had asked myself the same questions he was asking me now. Honestly though, could I answer the question. Yes, he had a chance with me. I wanted to be with him so badly and yet I knew I could never promise no heartbreak. I couldn’t see the future.
“Zac, I have never been so happy with anybody. You have been so kind and funny and I really like you. I want us to have a chance but you have to understand that I can’t make promises. I can’t see ahead of now and although I’d never try to hurt you, I can’t promise I won’t. I can only promise I won’t hurt you on purpose.”
He smiled and kissed my hands. He brushed hair out of my face and said “That’s all I want. That’s all I can promise too. Oh God, Melissa, you are so beautiful. C’mere.” He opened his arms and I leaned in and hugged him. We leaned back on the couch and he began twisting my hair around his fingers. We talked quietly for a little while about our past relationships. His arms were strong and his skin was warm. I looked up and he leaned down and kissed my forehead. I put my arm around his neck as he kissed my face. His kisses were soft and gentle. He stopped for a moment between each one as if waiting to see if I’d push him away, but I didn’t. I embraced him more with each brush of his lips on my face. He began kissing my lips, softly at first then harder. He slid his hand up from my knee to my thigh and then his arm wrapped around my waist. The kisses became more hurried and demanded as he pulled me closer and began gripping my back as his hands slid up and down from my shoulders to my waist. Suddenly, he stopped and looked at me for a moment. He gently brushed hair away from my neck and leaned down. I bit my bottom lip as I felt his hot breath on the side of my neck. He kissed, gently at first and as my grip tightened, he kissed more passionately. I felt his tongue touch my neck for a moment between his lips with each kiss. I leaned my head to the side and against the back of the couch. He kissed harder but never too hard. My finger nails dug into his back as I felt his tongue lick from the bottom of my neck, slowly gliding to my ear. He kissed from my earlobe to the top and then kissed my temple. He then kissed from the top of my ear back to the bottom where he took my earlobe and began sucking very lightly, sending chills down my back. He gently bit down and then kissed my neck a few times before making his way around to my lips again. As I felt his lips touch mine. His hand slid up my back and around to my neck. His thumb rested on my chin for a moment. Then he pulled away. He looked at me for a moment and kissed my forehead, then my cheeks, then my eyes and once on my lips again.
He then pulled away just an inch or two from my face and I felt his thumb press on my chin as my lips parted. He stared at my lips as he traced them with his index finger. Then leaned in for another kiss. As his lips touched mine, I felt his tongue slide into my mouth. I returned his kiss and after a moment, it became deeper and more passionate. He pulled me closer and then moved away from my mouth to kiss the other side of neck. Doing the same kissing, licking and sucking he’d done to the opposite side. I slowly slid my hands up his shirt and pulled it up. He moved away from my neck and lifted his arms as I pulled his shirt over his head. He then kissed my lips again and this time was more hurried and hungry. He began to lift my shirt, pulling away just long enough to pull my shirt over my head, then he began to kiss me again.
I then gently pushed on his chest. He tensed and took my earlobe into his mouth. Gently biting down he whispered “Melissa, please. Please don’t make me stop baby.” I giggled and whispered “I won’t but you know something?” He raised his head and continued to kiss my face as I finished “I do have a bed.” He pulled away and smiled a sly and somewhat embarrassed smile. Slowly he stood up, pulling me up with him. He had his arms around me and we continued to kiss as I let him lead me to my bedroom. Once inside, he closed the door and as I stood facing him, he walked toward me as I walked backwards until I was forced to sit down after my legs hit the side of my bed.
“Melissa,” he said softly as he got on his knees in front of me. “Humm,” I replied as I ran my fingers through his hair. “If you want me to stop, if you’re not ready, please tell me now. Please tell me while I can still walk away from you.” I leaned down and kissed him.”I don’t want to stop and I don’t ever want you to walk away from me.” I kissed him again and as we kissed, without our lips pulling apart, he said “I won’t baby. I need you. I want you so bad.” I just whispered back “I want you, please Zac. Please don’t stop.” He kept replying “I won’t.” He slowly moved toward me, crawling up on the bed as I moved toward the center. He lay on top of me as we kissed, our hands touching each other. He got up on his knees above me and began to unbutton my shorts and pulled them off, tossing them onto the floor. He then pulled me up to him and began kissing me deeply and hurriedly as he unsnapped my bra. He grabbed my hands when I reached for the straps to pull it off and while holding my wrist, he leaned down and slid his tongue under the strap and pulled it off with his teeth. He then pushed me down and took complete control. His fingers followed his lips as he kissed from my neck down to my stomach and then back up again. He slowly flicked his tongue on my nipples between kissing my breasts. I was unable to contain my pleasure as his hands and mouth explored my body. He then took me in both arms and rolled over on his back pulling me on top of him. I repeated his actions on himself, kissing touching, licking. His fingers were buried in my hair and he’d gently make a fist and tug my hair as he moaned. After pulling his jeans off, I pulled him back on top of me. He slid down kissing at the waistband of my panties before slowly pulling them off. He kissed my legs and then he said “Don’t move.” I laid still as his hands slid up my legs and pushed my knees apart. He then let one hand slid up my body to my mouth and placing his fingers on my lips whispered “Shhhh. Don’t move.” I closed my eyes as his hand slid between my legs. I then felt his tongue slowly licking and his hands rubbing my thighs. I jerked with a moan of pleasure and he suddenly stopped, causing me to release a breath quickly. I looked at him and he repeated “Shhhh, don’t move.” I felt him licking me again as his fingers dug into my hips and thighs.
It occurred to me that he knew exactly what he was doing by making me lay still and quiet. As I came closer to reaching a climax he stopped and crawled on his hands and knees over me. He smiled as he looked down at me now barely breathing, still feeling the pleasure he had just brought on me. “Oh God Zac!” I said breathlessly. He said quietly “Not yet.” I moaned and begged “Please Zac.” As he kissed me again he said “In a minute baby.” He laid down pulling me on top of him. I slid down and pulled his boxers off while kissing him. I heard him let out a long moan as his fingers became wrapped in my hair again. I slowly kissed him on his hips and stomach. He lifted my head by gently pulling on my hair. “Baby, you know what I want. Do it.” He said as he tugged on my hair. I smiled as I slid down farther and took him into my mouth. He pulled at my hair and used his other hand to lace his fingers with mine.
I knew what we were doing would be considered a sin by his parents. I somehow knew the secret would be kept for a while about the turn our relationship was taking. But I just didn’t care. I wanted him and he made me feel so beautiful and wanted. He kept gently pushing my hand that he held back as he’d grip it harder. He’d rub his fingers over my head in a circle and then tug at my hair. He then let go of my hand and put his on my face, forcing my head up. “C’mere.” He slightly smiled pulling my chin upward. I slid over his body and up to his face. He then kissed me, hard and deeply. In one quick motion, he rolled on top of me and we both moaned with pleasure as he slid into me. He moved so easily and then faster and hurried as our breathing became heavier. He supported his weight on his forearms and was still kissing my neck. My hands glided up his arms to his shoulders then around his neck and back again. He stopped kissing me as his movement became faster. As I wrapped my arms around him, I could feel the muscles in his back tense. His body began to glisten in the night light by the bed as sweat covered him. He moved faster and faster until a climax hit us both at the same time. Our breathing was heavy and out of control for a moment as his weight fell onto me.
After calming and slowed breathing, he raised his head and kissed me again, this time gently and slowly. As we pulled apart, he lay his head down and buried his face into my neck. I wrapped my arms around him and we lay still for a few minutes. He then kissed my neck and rolled over on his back, taking me into his arms. We lay still and quiet until we began to drift off. I heard him whisper “Please don’t ever leave me.” I could only manage to reply “Umm-umm.” Then we were both asleep, comfortably wrapped in a sheet and each other’s arms.

I lay awake for a few moments, still wrapped in Zac’s arms. I really didn’t want to move. I felt so safe and comfortable. I lay still, listening to his steady breathing and thinking of the deep interaction he and I had shared. He began to stir a little, his arm sliding off of me as he turned on his back and brought his hand up near his face. I gently rolled over on my other side and tucked one arm under my head. I lay still, simply watching him sleep. God, he was perfect. I carefully ran my index finger over his face and down his neck, then finally down onto his shoulders. His muscles were relaxed and his skin was still so warm. I continued to run my finger over his chest but carefully so I didn’t startle him awake. He looked so peaceful, his chest rising and falling with each deep breath. As my finger slid over his shoulders again then down to his stomach, a small smile started creeping over his face. I leaned down and kissed his forehead. As I was raising back up, he took my hand in his and laced our fingers together, bringing my hand to his lips and kissing it softly. His eyes opened slowly and he rubbed them to focus. He reached up and began to twirl my hair around his fingers. We lay silent for a few moments and his fingers crept over my face tracing my eyebrows then my nose and finally my lips before once again having my hair twirled around them. I slowly ran my finger tips over his chest and shoulders and traced his fingers as his other hand now lay across his stomach.I dipped my finger between his, letting my fingernail touch the skin of his stomach lightly. I smiled as he finally stretched.
“What time is it?” he asked turning on his side to face me. He gently rubbed my thigh as I rolled onto my back and stretched my arms over my head. I glanced up at the clock on the night stand and answered “ten minutes until one.” I smiled at him as he raised his head and came closer to kiss me. His lips were still warm and soft and he kissed so easy. “God, it’s hot. Let’s go get you an air conditioner,” he said as he sat up and gave me a nudge. After a few short protests and another kiss, I reluctantly rolled out of bed and pulled on my robe. “You smell so good.” he said, wrapping his arms around me and kissing the back of my neck. I turned to face him and gave him a tight hug.
“C’mon, I need an air conditioner now.” I said as I walked to my closet. Zac stood beside my bed in his jeans and pulled on his shirt. I glanced at him and saw that his bottom lip was stuck out. “This was your idea genius so let’s go.” I quickly pulled on a summer dress and sandals and pulled my hair back. We went to Lows first and bought the air conditioner. Then went to eat lunch.
As we drove back to my house, I asked “Zac, are we gonna tell anybody?” He glanced over at me and then looked back at the road. He reached over and took my hand and as he stopped at a red light looked over at me. “Melissa, I love you. I want everyone to know how I feel. It would be easier if we didn’t have that kind of secret but I’m leaving it up to you. We’ll tell whoever you are ready to tell when you are ready to tell them.” With that he leaned over and quickly kissed me before the light turned green. The rest of the way we rode in silence. When we got back to my house, he put the air conditioner in my bedroom window. The fans took care of the rest of the house but the one in my bedroom never seemed to be enough. August was hot in Oklahoma and the sun seemed to be merciless. I had taken a quick shower and as I was standing in front of my bathroom mirror in a towel. Zac came in and began moving my hair to kiss my neck. Between kisses he was talking saying “I… need to… go home… but… I’ll… be… back… later.” I smiled and said “Do you really have to go? I was hoping for a late afternoon performance.” As he glanced at me in the mirror from behind me, his hands rested on my hips and a evil smile crept over his face. I giggled as he gently bit down onto my earlobe, his eyes never leaving my reflection. He began to kiss me again on my shoulders as he said “Later baby, later.” I turned toward him and said in almost a child like voice “Later? You promise?” His arms slowly wrapped around my waist and he nodded as he leaned in for another kiss. “Mmmmm, you smell so good.” he said rubbing his face into my neck. “I really need to go. I’ll see ya later, ok?” I nodded as he walked out of my bedroom and I fell onto my bed into a fit of giggles when I heard my front door shut.
I quickly got dressed and then called Lacey. “OH MY GOD! MEELLISSAAAA!” was her reaction as I told her of the events that took place the day before. I didn’t tell her a lot just a little. I knew that at some point Zac and I would tell his family but I really wanted to wait for a bit. God, I loved him so much and really believed he loved me.I knew that we were going to be together for the rest of our lives. It was destiny and I couldn’t imagine my life without him. I felt so safe and loved in his arms, he always made me laugh yet not when the conversation needed to be serious. I loved his whit, his unconditional love that he gave so effortlessly. He was funny, smart, talented, kind and the best looking guy I’d seen in a long time. He was built to move mountains and yet was gentle and easy at the same time. His heart was overflowing with love and strength and he never made empty promises… just promises that he could keep. He was so affectionate and easy going. I loved his relaxed nature. Although he’d get angry once in a while, it took a lot to get him that way and it never lasted long.
After I hung up with Lacey, I began to look over some colors for painting the bathroom. I had my bedroom door open and with the air conditioner in there and the fans in the other rooms, all of the house remained comfortably cool for the rest of the day. I began to wonder what Zac had told his family about where he’d been. I knew he wouldn’t tell them anything about what had happened but still I wondered if “I was with Melissa.” would be enough to satisfy their curiosity.

I was standing in the bathroom, looking at different colored cards that were shades of blue, when I heard a knock on the front door. I walked to the door and opened it slowly. “Hi Melissa. Mom told me to bring this to you.” I smiled as Avery stuck out a foil covered tray and handed it to me.
“Hi Avery, come on in.” She smiled and stepped inside as I took the tray. I closed the door and she followed me to the kitchen. “Gosh, it feels good in here.” she said as she leaned against the counter. I smiled as I put the tray down and glanced at her while lifting the foil. “Brownies?” I asked raising my eyebrows. “Uh-huh.” she said nodding. “I’m going to a slumber party tonight and we were each asked to bring a snack. Brownies were my assigned food cause my friends like mom’s brownies the best.” She gave me a grin and wiped a strand of hair out of her face as she lifted the rest up and let the fan blow on her neck. “Avery, how in the world did your mom stand to cook brownies? It must be extra hot with the oven on.” I said as I picked a pinch off of a brownie. “Well,” Avery began letting her hair drop back onto her neck, “We had the fan going and the window and patio door open, and with the sun not shining anymore, it helped. Plus we stayed out of the kitchen unless we were making another mixture or taking them out of the pan and pouring more in. It wasn’t bad.” I smiled and offered her a brownie. She shook her head and said “I really need to get back and get ready.” As I walked her to the door I said “Well, thank you. They are really good. Have a good time tonight.” As she opened the door she smiled saying “You’re welcome and you have a good time tonight too.” I suddenly stopped in my tracks as we walked onto the porch. “What do you mean?” I asked curiously. “Zac said he’s coming over tonight cause you have plans. “Avery said stopping and facing me. “Avery,” I sighed, “What did Zac tell you?” She put her hands in the back pockets of her cut off Levis and shrugged. “Nothing really. Just that you had talked a lot and that he’d fallen asleep here. Then you went to lunch and had bought an air conditioner. He said that you had made plans for tonight and that he was coming over. That’s all.” I smiled “Ok. Well, thanks again and I’ll see you later.” With that she smiled and turned away. As she hopped down my steps she turned back “Melissa?” I faced her. “I just want you to know that we all like you. It’s nice to see Zac so happy.” I smiled and replied “Thanks Avery. I like you all too.” She grinned and began walking toward her house.
I sit on my couch for about an hour thinking of what Avery had said and wondered if that was really all Zac had told them. I had eaten another brownie (They were the best I’d tasted in a long time.) and had brushed my teeth. I’d showered and was dressed in a sleep set that was light pink. It was silk and the shorts were just to my thigh. The top just reached the top of the shorts and and had string straps. Underneath, I wore light pink, lace panties. I had put dark blue, satin sheets on the bed and had the air conditioner on, just enough to keep it a comfortable temperature. I had just a few candles lit and had climbed onto the bed, laying across it sideways.
At about 8:00, I heard a knock on my door. Knowing what would happen if I didn’t answer it, I lay still and quiet after turning the TV off. I waited. A few seconds later, a louder knock. Followed by a louder, longer knock. I couldn’t help but laugh to myself. I suddenly got quiet as I heard “Melissa!” I heard my front door shut quickly. “Melissssaaaaaa!” I lay still, my heart ponding as I heard his footsteps in the hall. Then a knock on the bedroom door. “Melissa? Are you ok?” After I didn’t reply, the door slowly opened. “Hey stranger. What are you doing in my house?” I smiled as he walked in the bedroom. He began to stutter playfully “Well… I… I… I was just… ya know… I was…” I got on my knees and said “You better come up with an answer. You can’t just come walking into someone’s house.” I said acting shocked. “Oh I can’t huh?” he said walking toward me and putting his arms around my waist. “You’re gonna pay dearly for making me wait for you!” I said as I crossed my arms. “Mmmmm, I’m sure I can afford it.” He said quietly as he began to kiss my neck and tighten his grip on me. “Did you lock the door?” I asked wrapping my arms around his shoulders. “Uh-huh” he said with a nod as he kissed my ear and began sucking my earlobe. I pulled his shirt over his head and our lips met as I tossed it onto the floor. He slowly slid his hands under my top and gripped my waist. “Ya know,” I said as he sit on the side of the bed to take his shoes and socks off and I sat on my knees behind him, “I expect a killer performance tonight since I had to wait so long for you.” He turned and crawled over me and kissed me again as I laid on my back. “Oh you’ll get one. It’s not like you have to pay though. I mean you’re getting a free ride here.” he said as I kissed his face. We both laughed quietly. He was so close to me I could feel his warm breath on my neck. I giggled and he smiled running his hand over my face. “God,I love you.” he whispered as he began to kiss my face and neck. I felt his tongue lick over the bottom of my neck and to the other side where he started kissing me again. I gently bit down on his shoulder near his neck. He raised his head and smiled at me. “What’s with you? You didn’t act like this last night?” I smiled shyly, beginning to blush as I answered “Just feeling playful. More comfortable.” He smiled back at me and nodded “Oh, you wanna play huh? Well, we can do that.” A sly grin crossed his face as he suddenly began to tickle me.I nearly screamed with laughter and fought with all my strength but he was too strong.I had to surrender in a fit of giggles. He was laughing at me and raised my shirt to kiss my stomach. I ran my fingers through his hair and he slid back up my body and kissed me deeply. “I love you Zac.” I said wrapping my arms around his neck. He looked at me for a moment and then whispered “I love you Melissa.” He kissed me again and raised my shirt. I lifted myself and he pulled it over my head and tossed it on the floor as he leaned down to kiss me again. Our breathing had become heavy as our hands moved over each other’s bodies. He moved lower and began to kiss my breasts, licking and sucking on each nipple as his hands glided across my stomach and would momentarily grip my hips. He kissed me so softly, letting his tongue give me a new sensation between each kiss. His breath felt cool where he had licked my body and warm where it had not, sending chills up and down my spine. He began to talk to me, telling me I was beautiful and that he loved. Once, as I tilted my head back and a high sound of pleasure escaped my lips, he smiled and said “I guess you like this huh?” With the sensation I was feeling all I could do to reply was nod and I bit my bottom lip as he started to kiss me again, making his way back up my lips. We were both lightly sweating and our breathing became heavier as a desperation took over. I rolled over on top of him and began to lightly lick his nipples and dig my nails into his chest. A pleasurable groan came from his throat. His fingers made a fist as his hand slid through my hair and as I kissed down to his stomach and across then back up again, his other hand went above his head to grip the edge of my headboard. I felt his muscles tense and he greedily kissed me, hard, as my lips touched his, his hand pulling my hair in his fist as he held me to him. When he let me break away, I unbuttoned his jeans and pulled the zipper down as he rolled onto his side and back on top of me. He had a desperation on his face and a hunger in his kiss. I slowly slid his jeans onto his thighs as he kissed my neck and face. He rolled onto his side and I continued to pull his jeans down as his hands pulled at my shorts. Once his jeans were off, he guided me onto my back and he sit up on his knees. He lifted my leg to his mouth and kissed it from my ankle to my thigh, stopping to lick the back of my knee. He then began to pull my shorts off and discarded them on the floor. His hand followed his mouth as he kissed and licked the other leg and finally came closer on his hands to kiss my lips again. He raised back up and pulled the panties off in a quick motion and forced my legs apart. I felt his tongue on me right away and screamed out with surprise and the amazing feeling that shot through every part of my body. He was setting me on fire. He kissed the inside of my thighs and gripped my legs tightly as he devoured me and I began moaning and eventually dissolved into near screams as he became merciless in his mission. The half evil smile I saw on his face as I watched him come closer to my face said that he was absolutely aware of the result of his actions. He kissed me as I smiled at him and began to slid his boxers off as I rolled on top of him. He bit down on my ear and let out a low, throaty growl as I pulled his boxers off one hip and sit up to pull them off completely. He took my face in his hands and pulled me down to him and kissed me. I slowly slid down and run my hand over his erection causing him to tilt his head back and grip my hair again, gently pulling it in his fist. I smiled and my other hand went to his mouth. He began to suck lightly on my fingers and bit down as my mouth and tongue took him. He sucked and licked my index and middle finger and I began to copy the action of his mouth. He quickly caught on and guided me with his tongue and lips as he continued to run his hand through my hair. He had taken a handful of the sheet in the other hand and was moaning from deep in his chest. He suddenly pulled me up to him in both hands and kissed me again. He gently pushed on my shoulders and I situated myself on top of him. As I began to move he gripped my hip and then my thigh as his other hand slid up and down my body, going across my stomach before traveling back up again. My hands pressed on his chest and I whined as a pain of pleasure sunk into my muscles as he dug his fingertips into my lower back just above my hips. We breathed heavier and moaned louder as a wave of incredible tenseness followed by release hit both of us and I fell on top of him in his arms. His grasp tightened as I started kissing his neck, tasting the sweat and cologne. He lifted my head by my chin and kissed me once,just pressing his lips to mine for what seemed like hours,but was just a few seconds. He then pulled away breathless. I rolled over and laid next to him. He turned and looked at me and smiled as he wiped a piece of hair out of my face and leaned over to kiss me again. He laid on his back and ran a hand through his hair. “Oh God baby.” he whispered as he turned on his side, wrapping his arms around me and laid his head on my stomach. I ran my fingers through his hair as he began to hum softly. “Writing a new song?” I asked. He looked up and rolled onto his back pulling me next to him. “All the time.” he said. “Melissa, don’t ever doubt that I love you. I will never let anything or anyone take you away from me.” I kissed his neck and whispered “I refuse to be taken away from you.” He smiled and we kissed one last time before falling asleep.

*Chapter 1 / Chapter 3*
*Go Back to Chapters Index*

This fictional story is hosted at The Gifted Ones,
with permission from the author Chelle.

Chapter 01

The air was so humid. The wind barely blew as I listened to kids playing in the street. It was quiet except for their laughter. “Stupid thing!” I said out loud to no one as I tried to move a heavy box across the floor. I had just moved into the secluded neighborhood and was trying to get things unpacked. I stood in the livingroom filled with boxes looking around. The door was open as were the windows and I had fans going due to the fact that I’d not bought an air conditioner yet. “I don’t know how it can be this hot so early.” I said to myself, grabbing a bottle of water out of the fridge. It was barely 10am and already 88 degrees. I stood in the kitchen for a moment, listening to a kid outside calling for a recount about something while nearly bending double with laughter.
I’d convinced myself that moving had been the right thing to do. My life had taken too many wrong turns and now I’d gotten the chance to start over. I walked out of the kitchen and back into the livingroom. Hmm, not really spacious but nice, I thought as I made my way back into the kitchen and looked out of the window. It was a nice place to live, quiet but with a few children. I didn’t think about the fact that I was 18 and completely on my own, miles away from my home and family, which I’d managed to avoid for the last 4 months. I was never close to them and I’d never actually gotten along with them to begin with. They just sort of ignored me as I did them. It was clear that the minute I turned 18, I was out of there. And I had been, literally. The day after my birthday, I’d left. First living in Florida with a friend and now had made it to Tulsa, Oklahoma.
“Hello!” someone called from the front door. I walked in wiping my hands on my red shorts. “Hi.” I said. I saw a woman standing there with a little girl at her feet. “Come on in.” I said as I gestured to her. She walked in smiling. “I just noticed your door open and wanted to come and say hi and welcome to the neighborhood!” I said, “Thanks.” and smiled. We chatted for a few minutes and then she said “Oh good Lord, where are my manners? I’m Diana and this little one here is my daughter Zoe. She’s my youngest.” I smiled an noticed that the little girl hadn’t let go of her mother’s hand. They both had blue eyes and long blonde hair, which blew to the side with the wind coming through the door. I replied “It’s nice to meet you both. I’m Melissa.” as we shook hands. “Nice to finally meet you.” Diana smiled, then continued, “We saw you here a few days ago. I was going to ask if you needed some help but you left in a hurry.” I grinned as I stuck my hands in my pockets. “Yeah, I just came to pick up the keys and drop off some cleaning products.” I answered. “Oh, well listen if you need some help getting things moved around,” she gestured around the room and smiled, “I’ve got a husband, four strapping boys and two other daughters. We’d be glad to help.” I smiled at her, already deciding to take her up on that offer but wanting to wait ’til the next day so I didn’t appear too eager. “OK thanks. I’ll give ya a yell if I need some muscle.” She grinned “Alright hun. We’re in the brick house over there with the porch swing,” she said as she pointed across the street and two houses down, “Just come over anytime and let us know.” She and I smiled and then she said, “Well, I’ve gotta get this one to a birthday party, so you have a nice day and we look forward to getting to know you.” I shook her hand again and said “You too. Bye Zoe.” The little girl just waved and as Diana (as she insisted on being called) smiled, she walked out and back to her house.
I began unpacking again. As I walked out to my car to get the last suitcase out of the trunk, I tugged at my white shirt. I was sweating and had become aware that my clothes were sticking to me. Stopping at my car, I tightened my ponytail, then lugged the suitcase out and slammed the trunk closed. Barefoot, I walked up on my porch and sit the suitcase inside the door. I turned stretching my back and then my arms and as I looked around I noticed a young guy in the front yard of Diana’s house waving at me, smiling. I smiled quickly and waved back. Then I watched as he gathered a small child in his arms and began spinning in a circle. I smiled as I heard the child scream with laughter.
Then, walking back inside, I closed the door and headed into the bathroom. I took a shower and changed into a pair of black, denim shorts, a blue t-shirt and black strap sandals. After pulling my hair into a clip, spraying on some perfume and spreading on some lip gloss, I quickly walked out and to my car. I noticed that at Diana’s house, the small child now sat on the porch steps eating what appeared to be ice cream, while the same guy walked across the yard. There was a young girl in the driveway washing a car. I saw right away that she had the same blonde hair that Diana and Zoe had. I drove past them as I put in a CD and he waved again as he now stood at the mailbox. I noticed that he’d taken his shirt off. “Must be one of those sons she was talking about” I thought as I waved and drove on. I decided right then and there that I really needed to get those heavy boxes moved into the den that day… and I’d need some muscle. I smiled to myself.

I walked through the small store. I just got the basics-bread, milk, eggs, a few microwave dinners, cokes, 3 packets of koolaide, chips, vegetarian turkey, a box of brownie mix and some apples. I paid for my groceries and started home. I had noticed the clock before leaving the store read 4:25.
As I pulled down my street, I saw Diana and Zoe walking toward their house from her car. I blew my horn and pulled into the end of their driveway. Diana smiled and walked over. “Hi, Melissa right?” she asked pointing toward me. I nodded and smiled. “Hey, I was wondering if I could borrow one of those boys of yours. I need some stuff moved into the den.” She smiled and said “Sure, I’ll go in here and see who’s available and send ‘em over ok?” I smiled again and replied “Ok. Tell them I won’t keep ‘em long.” She waved and I backed out and drove to my house. I unloaded the car and walked inside. I put the groceries away and started sipping some water while I hoped Diana would send the son I’d noticed earlier. She’d, no doubt, sent the one with the most muscle and he had not been lacking it. Then a knock on the door made me jump out of my thoughts. I opened it and there he stood, wearing a black tank top and blue jeans. His hair was short and his eyes were a deep honey color. His skin was somewhat tan and he had a smile that spread from one end of his face to the other. “Hi,” he said with a slight smile, “My mom, Diana, told me you needed some help moving some stuff. So here I am to your rescue.” I couldn’t help but laugh at his remark. I put my hand out and as he took it I said “Hi, thanks for coming over. I’m Melissa. And you are?” He stepped inside and answered, “Hi, you’re welcome. I’m Zac.”
“Oh my God! Of course! I don’t know why I didn’t notice before. Hanson. I knew the name Hanson. The band Hanson. Zac Hanson. I knew I’d heard your mom’s name before!” I smiled, he blushed. “Yep, that’s it. But around here it’s not a big deal ok? So here, I’m just Zac. Deal,” he raised his eyebrow and I suddenly caught on. “Deal” I said with a nod, then continued, “Ok, you want something to drink?” I asked. “Nope, just here to help,” he replied. “Ok then, this stuff goes into the den right in there.” I said as I pointed to some boxes. He rubbed his hands together and began moving box after box as I finished unpacking the last box for the livingroom. Afterwards, he moved the couch to the other side and hung some curtains. I was barely 5’4″ and he, at 6’0″, towered over me.
He worked until we were finished with the living room. It was close to 6. “Now, you have to let me get you a drink.” I said, sighing. I’d noticed the sweat beginning to streak down from his temples onto his neck. “Ok,” he sighed, “water would be nice.” I smiled and turned to go into the kitchen. Grabbing two bottles of water, I walked back into the living room. He had seated himself in front of one of the fans and had adjusted it to blow on his face. I handed him the water and he gave that big grin. I sat next to him and we made small talk for a while about the weather, the neighbors, his family and he and his brothers playing in the band.
After a minute of silence, I asked, “Zac, why’d you guys quit?” He looked at me and took another drink of his water. “We didn’t really quit. We just… I don’t know, needed a break. We got into it so young and things got out of control. When we decided to start the record label, it took away from the focus of just being a band. We came home for a short break and time just passed. But we are writing again so hopefully we’ll have another album soon. We all miss it, we just needed some time at home, without rushing from one city to the next.”
I nodded. I understood and was happy that they’d taken time off. “Maybe sometime you can come over and hear some of the new music.” I could feel my face light up at his invitation. “Sure, that’d be great.” His face lit up at my answer. Then a knock on the half open door caused us both to jump slightly and turn. “Hey, Zac! You guys in there?”
We smiled at each other then Zac answered “Yeah, Taylor, c’mon in.” He stepped through the door and Zac and I stood up. “Hi,” he said, walking toward me and extending his hand. “I’m Taylor,” he said as I shook his hand. “Well, I’m…” Taylor interrupted me saying, “Melissa. Mom told me.” We smiled as I nodded. “Zac, mom wants you home for dinner.” He sighed and said “Ok, I’m on my way.” With that Taylor smiled again saying “Ok. Nice to meet you Melissa. See ya around.” I said “Yeah, ok.” He walked out and back across the street. “Guess I better go,” Zac said. I nodded, “Thanks Zac. It was nice of you to help me and very nice to talk to you.” He blushed “You’re welcome. It was nice talking to you too. If you want, I can come over tomorrow afternoon and help you some more.” I glanced at him and answered, “Ok, come by around 10:00.” He smiled and said “See you then.” With a wave, I watched him walk back to his house and inside.
I fixed a microwave dinner and settled down to watch some TV. Thanks to Zac, I now had cable and a VCR. After cleaning up a bit, I’d fallen asleep on the couch, sore and exhausted from the day’s work.

I was woken up by a gentle shake on my arm and some calling my name. I opened my eyes and tried to focus on the figure standing over me. “Humm, what time is it?” I asked rubbing my eyes. “Five after ten.” He answered as he finally became clear to my vision. “Oh, god, hi Zac. I didn’t mean to oversleep.” I said as I sat up. “It’s ok. But you know, you really should lock your door.”
“Oh good grief… a dad lecture.” He continued pulling me to my feet. “I’m sorry to just have walked in. I knocked a few times and thought you may have gotten hurt.” He said. “No it’s ok. I’m glad you woke me up.” I suddenly felt his hand on my back as I stretched. He rubbed up to my shoulders and down to my waist a couple of times with such ease and strength. “I knnowwww.” He said giggling as I moaned, both from pleasure and pain. I laughed. “Ok, ok. Enough of that. We’re gonna work in the kitchen today.” I said matter of factly as I led him in there. “Now, if you could just start putting these on,” I said gesturing toward some new cabinet doors, “I’m gonna take a quick shower.” He smiled and said “Take a long shower, I got this.” I smiled as I started toward the doorway. “Oh,” I turned back as he glanced up, “If you get thirsty, there’s some stuff in the fridge.” He smiled and nodded and I started toward the bathroom. I lingered in the hot shower, taking full advantage of the effect it had on my tired sore muscles. When I reluctantly got out and dressed, I brushed my hair, sprayed on some perfume and walked into the livingroom to find Zac sitting on the couch, sipping some water, and looking through my collection of CDs piled near the stereo.
He glanced up and smiled as I walked in.”Hey, feel better?” He asked. “Uh-huh.” I smiled. “Well, I’m done in here,” he said as we walked into the kitchen. I got a can of coke and took a sip. I noticed that he had done a good job and had even cleaned up the mess when he was done putting the trash in the bag already half filled on the kitchen floor and neatly laying the hammer on the counter, next to it, the extra screws in one bag instead of the four he’d had to open. “Very nice, looks great.” I said with a smile, causing him to look down for a few seconds until the redness on his cheeks had faded. “Thanks,” he replied as he glanced up at me.
We then started more work, moving furniture, hanging curtains and paintings and putting in the ceiling fan. By this time he was starting to sweat and had started splashing cold water on his face and neck in the bathroom. Afterwards, he glanced at his watch. “Ok, let’s go.” I looked up from filling a vase with water for the flowers another neighbor had brought over as a welcome gift about an hour earlier. “What? Go where?” I asked putting the flowers in the water and putting them on the kitchen table. “Mom invited you over for lunch so you can meet the family. She told me to bring you over at 2:30 and it’s 2:40. So, let’s go.” I was surprised but welcomed the chance to meet the family. And I was getting hungry. “Ok,”I said “Umm, I need to go to Home Depot though so I can’t stay too long ok?” He nodded and opened the door.
We walked to the Hansons and were greeted at the door by Zoe. She ran into Zac’s arms and said hello to me. Then yelled “Mmooommmmm! They’re heeerreeee!” Zac winced and I laughed. “Hi, come on in here, have a seat. Zac introduce her.” Diana said with a smile as she headed back into the kitchen, spoon in one hand and the phone now back at her ear held with the other.
The home was a flurry of activity and noise as Zac and I went into the living room. “Everybody!” Zac said rather loud to get their attention. “This is Melissa, our new neighbor.” I was suddenly met with a massive amount of hand shakes and hellos. Once things were quiet Zac said “In case you missed any of that,” we all laughed as he rolled his eyes, “This is our dad Walker, Taylor, whom I believe you met, our oldest brother Isaac, our sisters Jessica and Avery, and our brother Mackenzie. And Zoe, you met her too.” Zac pointed to each person as he introduced them and they smiled.
As we sat on the couch, they began asking me questions. I answered each one and found myself very relaxed. They were all friendly but not nosey. Diana then walked in saying “Good grief, you all lay off! Hi Hon, glad you joined us. Lunch is ready.” The kids ran into the kitchen, with the adults following behind. After we were all seated Diana said “Isaac, why don’t you go see if Karen wants to eat with us?” Isaac excused himself and headed upstairs.
Zac leaned toward me from his seat next to mine “Karen’s Isaac’s wife. She’s pregnant and hasn’t been feeling too good.” I nodded.
Just then a young girl came in the door. “Hey,” she said grinning as she walked into the kitchen. Taylor’s face lit up and he jumped from his seat and embraced her in a hug. “I thought you weren’t coming home ’til tonight.” He said letting go of her and ushering her to the table. “Got done quicker than I thought I would.” She sat at the table and Taylor introduced us. “Honey, this is Melissa, our new neighbor. Melissa, this is my wife, Victoria.” I shook her hand across the table and she smiled saying “Tori. Nice to meet ya.” Then Isaac came in and said “Hey Tori! Mom, Karen was asleep and she said she’s not hungry right now.” Diana nodded and after grace was said, we began eating and talking about one thing then another. When we’d finished and had cleared the dishes, Zac said “C’mon Melissa. I’ll take ya to Home Depot.” I decided to take him up on that offer and after our good-byes, we left.
“You got a led foot too huh?” I asked with a grin as we pulled into the parking lot. He grinned and turned the car off. We walked in and he followed quietly as I picked up some paint supplies and put them in the cart he was pushing. After paying for the purchases we got back into his single cab, white pickup and headed home. He pulled into my driveway and helped me carry in the bags. We sat down on the couch as I told him of my plans to paint. He offered to help the next day. I agreed and after a few more minutes of talking he left.
I sat watching TV. I wondered why I’d found myself so comfortable and open with him so soon. Trust was a big issue with me and I’d never opened up to anyone so quickly like I was to him. I’d never felt so relaxed with anyone like I felt with him. Sure he was Zac Hanson from a band that I’d loved, but he was more than that. He was nice and polite and funny. He was also smart and had been very kind to help me. He was just Zac from Tulsa here and I’d never break our deal to turn it into anything more. Still though, I found myself wondering about him. I wanted to know him, everything about him. I wanted him to know everything about me. I wanted him to want to know about me.

The next morning, Zac came over around 9:30. I was awake and looking over the paint cans we’d bought the day before. “Hey,” he said walking through the door. “Hi,” I replied. “So, what room first?” he asked walking toward me. “Uhhh,” I had planned to paint the bathroom and guest bedroom. “I guess we’ll start in the guest room,” I said. He picked up the paint can and brushes while I carried the pan and a roller.
We walked in the room and after putting down the paint bucket, he opened the window and turned on the fan. “Zac?” I asked as he locked the window in place, “Would you go into the kitchen and get the tape off of the counter? The blue tape and grab a couple of bottles of water while you’re in there.” He nodded and turned to go toward the kitchen.
I sat on the floor and taking a screwdriver began to pry the lid off of the paint can. “God… good grief!” I said to myself trying to get the lid off. “Need help? Here let me.” Zac said as he walked into the room and turned to sit the water and tape down on a table. I said, “I think I got it… if I could just… get the… last edge… off, Zac!” I shouted his name. Without a warning, the screwdriver slipped away from the paint can and had stabbed me in the hand between my thumb and index finger, on my palm. The blood gushed out and Zac pulled me up quickly taking me to the bathroom and  holding my hand under water. “Just hold still a sec.” he said as he reached over and grabbed a towel. He took my hand in it holding pressure on the wound. After a minute or two, he slowly pulled the towel away and quickly replaced the used side as blood began rushing out of my hand. “Dammit, that hurts!” I said almost in tears. He again
pulled the towel away and seeing the blood had not slowed down, said “Ok, we gotta get you to a doctor, it’s pretty bad and I’m guessing you’ll need stitches.” I sighed and sucked in through my teeth as another sharp pain went through my hand and up my arm. “I’ll be ok. It’ll stop in a second. I just need to sit down for a minute.” I was getting dizzy and began to walk toward the living room. Zac took my arm as I walked and then a terrible feeling of sickness came over me and the last thing I heard was Zac calling my name.
I didn’t really recall what had happened when I finally came to. I woke up in a bed with an IV in my hand and a bandage on the other. I heard someone say my name and turned my head slowly to see Zac looking down at me. He smiled and little and said “Hey there.” I smiled slightly and said “Hi. What happened?” He started rubbing my forehead and answered “You passed out. You’re in the hospital but the doctor said it wasn’t bad. You needed a few stitches and they had to put you to sleep because you started waking up when they were putting them in. You’re gonna be ok though.” I slowly began to recall the events that had taken place and asked “How did I get here?” He answered “I drove you… in your car. And you know something,” he paused and
smiled “You have got to get an automatic!” We both laughed and when the doctor had given me the all clear, Zac drove me home. “I guess the painting will have to wait huh?” I asked as we pulled into my driveway. He helped me out of the car and inside. He led me to the guestroom and said “Sit and enjoy.” I turned and sit down in the chair and watched confused as he poured the paint into the pan, grabbed the roller, and turned on the fan and then the stereo. He began to paint and dance. I laughed so hard watching him do his best entertainment dance around the room… which turned into a stripper dance as he began to sweat and removed his shirt in a seductive manner. Neither of us could keep a straight face.
When he was finally done, he helped me into the living room, handed me the TV remote and some coke and said “I’ll let you get some rest, but I’ll come check on you later. I called mom from the hospital and told her I’d fill her in after we got back.” I nodded and as he walked out of the door, I said “Zac?” He looked at me over his shoulder, “Thanks. For everything.” I smiled as did he replying “No problem. See ya after a while.” I nodded again and he left. I sighed deeply and turned on the TV. My hand was still numb and I appreciated not feeling the pain run through my arm anymore. I got lost in a TV program and then took a short nap. When I woke up my hand was throbbing and I took one of the pills the doctor had given me for the pain. I walked in to the kitchen and got a few Oreo cookies and a glass of milk and settled back on the couch. I ignored the easing pain as I watched on.

Around 7:30, I was watching a movie, bored, and heard a knock on the door. I got up and walked over to open it. “Hey.” I said. “Hi, how ya feeling?” He asked as I backed up and he stepped inside closing the door. “Ok, I guess. It doesn’t hurt and I took a nap.” He nodded and asked “Are you hungry?” I smiled and answered “I was just thinking of what I was going to have for dinner.” He grinned “How about a pizza?” He asked. “Sure,” I said sitting back on the couch, “Sounds good to me,” he nodded once and picked up the phone, dialing the number he asked “What kind?” I answered “Just cheese… and get some bread sticks too.” He nodded and said “Ok.” I leaned back on the couch and flipped through the TV channels as he said “Two large pizzas, one pepperoni, one plain cheese. And a order of bread sticks… Yes… uh-huh… 2433 West 77th Street… Ok, thanks.” He hung the phone up and said “It’ll be here in a bit.” I smiled. “You don’t like pepperoni?” he asked. “I’m a vegetarian,” I answered. He looked surprised. “Since when?” he asked with a grin. “Since my birthday 2 years ago.” I grinned back. He waited for an explanation so I said “My friend, Lacey, took me out on my birthday and every time I bit into the pizza we were eating for lunch she would squeal like a piglet.” He laughed as did I. Then I continued, “I just couldn’t eat meat after that. I kept seeing calves and piglets and baby chicks when I did so I finally just stopped.” We laughed again and he asked “Does it bother you to see people eating meat?” I shook my head and said “Not really. People can eat what they want.” He then stretched out his arms in front of him and leaned back on the couch. I gasped when I came across one of my favorite movies. “Oh my God! Look! ‘Rush Hour’ is on!” He raised his head “This is one of my favorites!” he said. I turned toward him, “No kidding? I love this movie!” He grinned and we leaned back and began laughing at Chris Tucker’s lines and facial expressions. A knock on the door caused Zac to jump up and walk over. “Who is it?” he asked as I turned the TV down. “Pizza delivery.” We heard a guy answer. Zac looked at me and grinned raising his eyebrows. He opened the door and took the two boxes and bag of bread. He set them on the table by the door and reached into his pocket. Handing the guy the money and a tip he said “Thanks,” and closed the door. He picked up our dinner and sit it down on the coffee table in front of the couch. We walked into the kitchen and go some drinks, napkins and paper plates. Then went back to the living room and started eating while we finished the movie. That was followed by some ice cream and ‘Rush Hour 2′.
When the movie was over, we just sat talking with the TV turned down. We talked about everything from music to our childhood and eventually we moved to completely random questions. We were laughing uncontrollably at each other’s most embarrassing moments and worst dates ever. After confessing our biggest and most secretive fears, I glanced up at the huge window that looked out over the back yard. “Holy shit Zac!” I said almost laughing. He glanced at me “What?” he asked confused. “It’s morning. Look, the sun’s coming up.” I pulled the drapes back and he looked out. “Damn hell. Mom’s gonna kill me! I gotta go.” He jumped up and pulled his shoes on and hurried to the door. “Bye.” I called to him laughing. “He giggled and said “Bye, see ya later.” Then he was gone. I wasn’t tired at all having slept a lot the day before so I went to shower. Standing under the hot water, I realized that I was falling for this guy. I really enjoyed spending time with him. His smile and laugh were contagious and I loved that we could have a goofy conversation filled with jokes and giggles but just as easily have a serious conversation about things very important to us and world events. I found myself feeling free to be myself with Zac. He listened to my thoughts and opinions and made me feel comfortable expressing my feelings. One thing he didn’t know about though was how I felt about him. I never seemed to know what to say. He seemed to like my company as well, but had never said anything about feeling more. I began to wonder if either of us ever would. I wanted to know how he felt, what he felt but was so terrified of what his answer may be that I always put the thought out of my head. “You are a coward.” I told myself, standing in front of my bathroom mirror wrapped in a towel. “What the hell are you doing? He can have any girl in the world and you are stupid enough to think he might like you.” I walked into my room and got dressed. Then pulled my hair into a braided bun and went outside.
I sat there for a while with my legs hanging off of my porch. I was so lost in thought, I didn’t even notice him walk up to me. “Melissa, how are you?” I turned and saw Isaac standing there looking down at me smiling. “Hi, I’m good thanks. Here have a seat.” I patted my concrete porch and he sit beside me. “Zac told us what happened.” I nodded as he continued “We were worried about you. You sure you’re ok?” I smiled and said “Yeah, I’m fine. I only took one of the pain pills. It hasn’t bothered me any. It’s just hard getting used to this thing on my hand.” I held up my hand and he nodded looking at the bandage. “So, how’s Karen, is it?” I asked, trying to remember his wife’s name. “Yeah, Karen. She’s doing good. Ready to have the baby. The pregnancy’s been hard on her.” he said looking out into the street. “When is she due?” I asked. “Three months, 14 days.” He said grinning. “It’ll be our first so we’re really excited.” I couldn’t help but smile at how his face lit up. “So, how do you like it here?” he asked. “It’s nice,” I answered “Really nice. The neighbors have been very welcoming. I’ve gotten flowers, gift baskets, wine and even a welcome card from the little girl who lives next door to you.” He smiled “Ashley, yeah, she’s sweet. Loves to come over and play with the dogs.” We laughed.
The Hansons had three dogs, two labs and a mix breed. They were very friendly and loved nothing more than chasing a water hose across the yard. “Is Zac driving you crazy yet?” Isaac asked. “No, he’s been great company and a big help.” I answered. “Ok,well I guess I better get back. Just yell if you need anything.” I smiled and watched him walk down my driveway. He turned and walked back toward me stopping a couple of feet away. “Melissa, you know Zac really likes you right?” I was taken back but tried to seem less surprised than I was. “Really? What makes you think that?” I asked. “He talks about you a lot. He can barely breathe at the sight of blood and he managed to help you when you got hurt. He’s over here all the time and looks like he’s in dreamland when he gets back home.” I laughed, slightly blushing. Isaac continued “He likes you, I can tell. And I just wanted you to know that he’s not gonna say anything until you tell him you like him.” I glared at him now. “How do you know I like him?” I asked, squinting my eyes in the sunlight. “Well,” Isaac began as he walked towards me, “You lit up at the mention of his name, and your face turned four different shades of red when I told you he likes you. And that grin is unmistakable.” We laughed. “Just tell him, ok?” I watched as he turned back and started toward his house.
I got up and went inside. A few minutes later, Taylor knocked and I went to the door. “Hey, I was gonna ask how you are but Ike already told me.” he said. I smiled at him. “Look, I just wanna say that it’s no secret to any of us that you and Zac like each other. But you’re gonna have to say something first. He’s just not going to take the chance. He didn’t send either of us over here. I wanted to talk to you about it myself and so did Ike. Melissa, he needs somebody. And I really think, we all think, the two of you would be great together.” I sighed after listening to his words. I looked down and said “I do like him Taylor but I don’t want to be hurt again like I have been before.” He replied “I understand that but Zac’s been hurt too and he won’t do it to anyone else. He knows what it feels like to be hurt. Just talk to him, ok?” I nodded and then Taylor said “You know where we are if you need us. See ya around.” I smiled and nodded again as he turned to leave. As I was about to close the door Taylor said “Melissa,” I turned back “He needs somebody. You are and would be better for him than anyone, especially Courtney.” Before I could say another word, Taylor was in his car and driving past his house. I walked inside and sit on the couch. It wasn’t long before Isaac and Taylor’s words got to me as did my curiosity. “Well,” I sighed “You gotta do what you gotta do.” I stood up and straightening my clothes walked out the door and across the street to the Hansons. I knew that I had to talk to Zac and the next day, or the next week, or even the next month, wouldn’t have been any easier time to do it.

*Prologue / Chapter 2*
*Go Back to Chapters Index*

This fictional story is hosted at The Gifted Ones,
with permission from the author Chelle.

Prologue

It’s kinda funny that I sit here now wanting more than anything for the story to be told how it actually happened. He’s not here to tell his side of the story. He can’t answer the questions. I’m not even sure he’d want to. I just know that the stories and answers that have been made up are starting to take their toll. I know now is the time for the truth to be told and whatever any of you may think of me or him afterwards is your choice to make. I do, however, ask that you try to remember him as you knew him. His kindness, his ability to make everyone laugh, his music… Oh that music.
I try not to think about the bad times anymore. I still hear people talking about him. Little things remind me of him. I’ve somehow managed to get through it one day at a time and just as he promised, things have gotten easier as time has gone by. I don’t remember when it was that I decided to finally write this but I think if anything, it was when I woke up that afternoon. The room had been cold and it didn’t take long for me to realize where I was… in the hospital. I still find that amusing; both times I’d been in there was because of him. The first time was because of his kindness and care about a stranger. The second time was because of his loneliness, stress, fear and anger that he took out on the girl he knew so well. I think I’m getting ahead of myself. Sorry. The real story started when we met. You know what they say, it’s always best to start at the beginning…

*Chapter 1*
*Go Back to Chapters Index*

This fictional story is hosted at The Gifted Ones,
with permission from the author Chelle.