Just Like Old Times

Lorrie-Ann Baker sighed with exasperation as she rummaged through the purse on the passenger's seat for the ringing cell phone even as she sped down the two lane county road. It was the fifth time it had rang in the last hour. She didn't even have to look at the number on the screen to know who it would be.

Barry. Her agent and usually her friend. Or what passed as a true friend these days anyway. Since her unexpected rocket to fame after going to the final round of that TV talent show, her life has been a constant whirlwind of people who all claimed to want to be her friend. They all wanted to do what was best for her, or so they all claimed. She knew they were making plenty of money off her too. But the money wasn't the issue. She just felt like all the constant demands were pulling her too thin, like taffy at the county fair.

She found the phone and flipped it open with another heavy sigh.

"What is it now, Barry?"

"It's been you the last four times. Why would it be anyone else?"

"No. I told you I'm taking a break!"

"I don't care! You said after the Forum gig I could have a couple weeks to myself. Now I'm holding you to that."

"I know, Barry, but you can just reschedule it! You got me into it, now you get me out. It's not open for debate. I'm on vacation!"

She flipped the phone closed angrily, swearing under her breath. She knew he meant well. Barry had been largely responsible for her career taking off like it had. But Barry seemed to think she was just a voice and a body, with no person attached. He wanted her to fulfill commitment after commitment, non-stop, as if she were a karaoke machine he could rent out or something.

Sure, her voice was a gift. It had made life rewarding and had made her rich besides. But sometimes she just felt like there ought to be something more. She was having that feeling more and more lately. It wasn't that she didn't like what she was doing. It was a dream life. Money, fame, anything she could want. The trouble is, it wasn't enough.

And that bothered her. It should have been enough for anyone in their right mind. She hadn't been born with a silver spoon in her mouth, after all. She'd grown up as just another small town girl and had been happy enough. She'd always dreamed of the glamorous life, like any other girl, she supposed. But unlike most young girls, her dreams had come true. So why wasn't she as happy as she thought she always would be? What was wrong with her?

The phone rang again, and instead of answering it, she shut it off entirely. Nobody who had her current number would be anyone she'd want to talk to right now anyhow. It was probably just Barry again, trying once more to get her to change her mind. He'd wanted her to fly out to Dallas to do a photo shoot for some teeny bopper idol magazine. She knew she had a lot of younger fans, mostly young girls who liked to dream they had a chance to make it big like she did. But her music wasn't exactly teeny bopper pop after all. She didn't kid herself about being the next Britney Spears or Katy Perry. It wouldn't be the end of the world to reschedule the shoot for the next month's issue.

As she drove the two and a half hour route to McConnelsville, her one-time home town, she let her thoughts drift back to the happy times she'd had there in her childhood. They said you couldn't go home again, but damned if she wouldn't try. Since the day her mother had packed them up to move to the big city, hoping for a better life after the heated and prolonged divorce that was far too scandalous for a small town not to gossip about, she had never quite felt as if she belonged, wherever she was.

Oh, she had made friends. She'd even been popular in high school; maybe a little too popular. She'd been one of the party crowd, often staying out late on school nights, drinking and carrying on in a way would have made the people who had known her in McConnelsville cringe. If they could have seen what she'd been like then, they'd probably still be gossiping about it.

And with the crowd she ran with, she'd always been accepted, but none of those people had ever been close. Not really close. Not like Bethany. In fact, she couldn't remember most of their names now, only 4 years after graduation. And she doubted that any of them would give her the time of day now, if she weren't a celebrity. Of course with her fame, they'd love to count her among their friends now. But it wasn't real. They would be like all the other people in her life now, valuing her only for what she could do for them.

Not like Bethany. They had been inseparable, like sisters. No, like twins. Not that they were the same, but they were that close. Always. When she'd fallen off the monkey bars on the school playground that day in third grade and twisted her ankle, it was Bethany who had been there to pick her up, staying with her until the playground teacher came and took her to the nurse. Even then, Bethany was there, refusing to leave her side until Lorrie's mother had come to pick her up.

And when Billy Stephens had made fun of her because she had to get braces, it was Bethany who's shoulder she cried on; Bethany who'd assured her she was still pretty, and would only be prettier when the braces did their job. She'd been right too. Now the camera loved her. It had been part of the reason she'd done so well on that TV show.

Lorrie wondered if Bethany still lived in McConnelsville. Would she see her there? What would that be like? Could they still be close after all these years? She wondered what else would be different about her old home town. It had been almost 9 years now. The closest she had come to this place was the Forum gig the night before. And even that was two and a half hours away by car.

Now as her thoughts occupied her mind, the miles had slipped away and it seemed like the concert of the night before was a lifetime away as she made the last turn on the little two lane that would lead right into McConnelsville. She could see the faded blue water tower marking the city limits. It almost seemed a joke to call it a city now, after she'd spent the last eight plus years in real cities that were at least ten times the size of this little town.

She slowed down as she passed a shopping center, anchored by a Wal Mart. That was new. And look, there was a Starbucks. The damn things were everywhere these days. Lorrie recalled the times that her mom and Bethany's mother would get together over coffee at Kristen's Diner on Main street. Was the diner even still there? In the mood she was in now, she was certain that no soulless corporate specialty coffee chain store could ever have the class and appeal as that little small town diner.

She continued through town to the motel on the far end. At least that was where she intended to go. But when she got there, it was obvious the old motel had been out of business for a while. It was now a staging place for weekend flea markets, and this being a Saturday afternoon, it looked like there were plenty of tables. She shrugged and turned around in the parking lot of the Friendship Baptist church. She'd have to make some other arrangements for a place to stay. And she knew just where to ask. That is, if the old IGA hadn't gone out of business too.

She turned down Market street and covered the three blocks to the old grocery store. With a sigh of relief, she noted that it was still open and seemed to be thriving. She pulled the rental car into the closest space out of habit. Usually these days she traveled in limos that dropped her off right at the entrance of wherever she was going. It was a necessity. Wherever she went, people recognized her from the TV show, and from her publicity. Too many autograph seekers made life difficult, so she tried to avoid being in public too much.

But in this sleepy little town, it seemed hard to believe anyone would make a fuss over her. After all, the last time they'd seen her, she'd been a gangly, skinny little pre-teen with braces. She let out a breath she hadn't been aware she'd been holding and slipped on her sunglasses. Getting out of the car, she glanced around nervously, taking a moment to stretch her 5'-8" trim frame before starting casually for the store entrance.

The afternoon was hot, but not too unpleasant. Still it felt good when the automatic door opened and the cool rush of the air conditioning hit her, the differential breeze tussling her strawberry blonde hair slightly. She strolled in, hoping she'd dressed casually enough in her designer jeans and crisp white blouse over a pink tank camisole to blend in to the locals. She imagined she could feel everyone looking at her as she headed for the beverage aisle, picking up a few bottles of peach iced tea from the cooler.

Grabbing a bag of ranch flavored chips to go with her drinks, she headed for the checkout counter, hoping to ask the clerk about any other motels in the area. She'd just taken her place in the line and was glancing surreptitiously around, checking to see if she recognized any familiar faces, when she noticed the woman in the next lane over. There was something about her that seemed familiar, something that caused a sudden sense of longing for the old days to surge within her. The intensity of the feeling took her by surprise as her eyes passed over the short bob hairstyle, deciding it couldn't be anyone she knew. But Lorrie wondered what it was about the woman that affected her so.

Her musing was interrupted, drawn back to her own counter when the voice of the checkout clerk rang out a little too loud for normal conversation.

"Oh my goodness! Aren't you that girl? That one I saw on TV a while back! You were on that show, weren't you? The one they have all those people singing on?"

Lorrie blushed slightly, mildly annoyed, but used to the fuss. The clerk's voice was just loud enough to turn heads in her direction. Now of course if she asked about a motel, everyone would know where she was staying. She'd never get a moment's peace. She was about to respond when her eyes settled on the face of the woman with the short bob hair. She'd know those friendly brown eyes anywhere. Her astonished lips mouthed one word, almost too quiet to hear over the clerk's continued gushing.

"Beth?"




(Reserved for Sasha25)

Bethany Grace Stroud still lived in the town in which she grew up, never truly wanting to leave it, leave her small number of friends and her family. Her parents still lived down the street, thought her younger sister had broken the family mold and had gone to college out-of-state.

Average sized at 5'5", Bethany had light brown hair, cut into an easy to manage bob, something new for her, a departure from the very long, straight hair style she had since early in her childhood. Her eyes were similar to her hair, light brown, soft and shy, and very friendly. Her face was heart-shaped, and to her, rather plain looking. She was never an athlete, so was as her mother said, curvy, the boys in school said, chunky, and she herself though, slightly rounded.

Since she did clerical work at a local business, she didn't need to dress down, or dress, preferring long skirts and blouses, taking care not to attract the eyes of the men she worked with on a regular basis. She preferred to blend into the background and foreground, wishing to go to work, work hard, then return home for a quiet meal.She read often, watched little TV, and liked spending quiet evenings in the summer on her porch swing, drinking lemonade and reading.

She did have dreams, years before, of glamor and Hollywood, becoming a revered singer and perhaps and actress, but she knew that she didn't have the temperament for it. Despite wanting a little of that life, she preferred safety, quiet, calm.

Her one indulgence, particularly with TV, was American Idol. As she loved singing (though not a singer herself), she loved watching young people pouring their dreams out in front of the country, hearing beautiful songs, and often cried when her favorites left the show. She was amazed, one year, to see her old childhood friend on the show, and performing so well. Bethany watched every moment of Lorrie-Anne's rise to fame, with such an incredible voice. Bethany even cheered out loud when Lorrie-Anne won. All the memories of them being joined at the hip would come flooding back at the sound of Lorrie-Anne's voice.

Once that show passed, and the small town died back from the excitement to the normal every day quiet, Bethany felt a quiet sadness come over her. She truly missed Lorrie-Anne. They were so close at one time, and yet they hadn't spoken in years.

____________________
Bethany had just come from the small record store in town, Lorrie-Anne newest album in her purse, still wrapped, when she entered the grocery store for some fresh vegetables for the weekend. It was going to be a quiet one. Not special meals, or meetings friends and family. It would be listening to music, reading, and perhaps cleaning out the attic for something to do.

When standing in line, Bethany's eyes wandered, and they came to rest on someone who looked like a townie, but didn't feel quite right. Bethany had spent so long in McConnelsville, that she knew almost everyone, down to the children that had been born a few weeks before. This young woman FELT different. Her skin too darkly tanned, her lips too red, her jeans too designer-looking. When the young woman turned around, Bethany nearly screamed.

Lorrie-Anne. It had to be her. Those eyes could belong to no one else. How many times had they played staring games? Suddenly, The memory of Lorrie coming home with braces, so upset, came to Bethany's mind. Lorrie cried, thinking she was ugly, but Bethany had spent hours comforting her best friend, convincing Lorrie that she was till beautiful and would be more so in years to come. It was true.

The door of the store opened and a warm breeze rustled Bethany's long skirt. She lowered her gaze. Why would Lorrie be here? Would she even remember? Bethany's fingers reached up to the cross that hung against her breast, barely visible as her blouse was open only one button.

"Beth?"

Bethany looked up. Lorrie's eyes met hers and it was if the intervening years had never happened. Bethany left her purse on her shopping cart, and hurried over, tears splashing down her cheeks and soon the famous Lorrie-Anne Baker was in her arms.

"Lorrie, Goodness, it's been so long. What are you doing here?"

There was the scent of expensive perfume, the feel of silk, all wrapped around Bethany, but she didn't care. The familiar Lorrie was still there, somewhere.

It was her! Lorrie's eyes lit up and a grin spread across her face as she rushed forward, meeting her best friend halfway. Her eyes misted with tears of happiness as she hugged her friend tightly. She wished she was stronger. She felt like picking Beth up and spinning her around.

"Lorrie, goodness, it's been so long. What are you doing here?"

"Beth I'm so glad to see you! I wondered if you still lived here. I hoped you did!"

They both spoke at once, then Lorrie laughed, realizing she was gushing like a school girl. It made sense in a way. The last time they'd been together was the summer after middle school, when they had been schoolgirls, and it seemed as if nothing had changed in that moment they embraced. Lorrie blushed a little, but still couldn't stop smiling as she held her friend in her arms, lingering just a little longer than might be proper. Impulsively she kissed her childhood friend on the cheek before stepping back to look at her.

She blushed deeper as she realized a crowd had gathered around and was watching them. Her eyes cast a look of apology to Bethany as she noticed the matching blush on her friend's face just as the cashier stepped forward, staring at both of them, holding out a piece of register tape to have her sign an autograph. She took the offered pen and hastily scribbled her name, remembering to smile as she handed back the pen and paper. For the first time in a long time, she didn't have to fake it as her eyes looked past the crowd to meet Bethany's.

They closed in around her, local townsfolk, her fans, nearly pushing Bethany to the margins. Lorrie's brows briefly furrowed, the unexpected feeling of sadness and loss taking the place of her momentary euphoria that reuniting with Beth had caused to well up within her. She shook hands with someone and pasted on another smile for one quick picture with another fan, snapped with someone's cell phone camera, before rather peremptorily excusing herself, pushing through the crowd to get to Bethany.

"Hey, Beth, sorry about that. It happens a lot. Listen, I'd really love to do some catching up with you. Is that old diner still open on Main street? We could get some coffee maybe?"

The gathering crowd was making Bethany very nervous, though she knew it should be expected with someone as famous as Lorrie, in her own small town. Bethany was sure that few of them knew or remember Lorrie as she was years ago, when she and Lorrie were best friends.

As Bethany was pushed back away from her friend, she lowered her eyes, sighing. She expected Lorrie to love the attention, wanting to take photos and sign autographs. It was a complete surprise when Lorrie reappeared suddenly, speaking rather earnestly.

"Hey, Beth, sorry about that. It happens a lot. Listen, I'd really love to do some catching up with you. Is that old diner still open on Main street? We could get some coffee maybe?"

Bethany suddenly glowed bright again, but could see over Lorrie's shoulder that the crowd was advancing again, eagerly expecting more from their hometown star. Bethany, grasping her friends hand whispered urgently.

"Follow my lead."

Bethany moved out, smiling, finding a boldness that she rarely showed.

"I know you want to spend some time without our hometown girl, but I need to get Lorrie to her hotel, she's had a long trip, and just wants to relax. Remember that we're a small town, and we like the quiet and leaving our neighbors be. Lorrie is still a McConnelsville girl." Her voice never rose, speaking in her usual quiet tones.

Some of the customers of the store looked disappointed, but others nodded and smiled. Bethany steered Lorrie quickly out of the store, her heart thundering, feeling incredibly flushed. Lorrie seemed speechless, as they went towards Bethany's old car.

"Now, I don't intend to take you to a hotel. You will stay with me tonight for some peace and quiet and I'll make you a nice home-cooked meal. Why don't you get your things and put them in my car. We can pick up your rental later once things have died down."

Bethany gave Lorrie another warm hug, and smiled.

Lorrie watched in surprised amazement as Bethany quietly and confidently handled the crowd in a way that made Barry and her other handlers methods seem rude and belligerent. Of course, Bethany had the advantage of knowing these people and knowing what sort of value they placed on privacy, even the privacy of a celebrity. Most of the crowds of fans that Lorrie had to deal with had the attitude that anyone famous was public property, and had no right to themselves.

Bethany didn't have to raise her voice or push anyone back, she just....explained things. Lorrie quietly followed her friend out of the store, at a loss for words, but fairly amused at the way Bethany had handled things so smoothly. And the last thing she'd said, about Lorrie still being a McConnelsville girl, made her feel so welcome, as if she belonged here.

As they walked together towards what must be Bethany's car, Lorrie reflected on her decision to come back to this little town. It had really almost been an impulse, one she hadn't given much thought to. Now she began to realize that it wasn't the town she'd hoped to come back to. It was her friend. Bethany was the kind of friend she'd been missing since she'd moved away with her mother all those years ago. And the feeling that had come over Lorrie when she had realized who the short haired woman was had been unexpected in its intensity. She still wasn't sure what it meant. She just knew she was happier now that she'd found Bethany again than she'd been in a long time.

They reached the car and Bethany began to load her groceries inside. Lorrie stopped her with a touch on her hand as Bethany reached for the door handle. "Beth, thank you for what you did back there. You were amazing! You handled them even better than my agent." Lorrie smiled gratefully at her friend, tempted to get lost in those warm brown eyes. "Don't get me wrong; I'm grateful for the fans, and that people like my songs. It's just that sometimes there seems to be so little of me to go around, and I feel like there's none left for me afterwards, you know?"

Bethany only smiled as she replied, "Now, I don't intend to take you to a hotel. You will stay with me tonight for some peace and quiet and I'll make you a nice home-cooked meal. Why don't you get your things and put them in my car. We can pick up your rental later once things have died down."

"That sounds wonderful actually. I went in there to ask about any motels in the area since I saw that the old one out at the other end of town was out of business. But when that cashier recognized me, I knew word would get around of where I was staying if I asked her. Then there would be no peace and quiet. But Beth, are you sure it's okay? I don't want to be a bother."

Bethany just smiled and gave Lorrie another warm hug, continuing the reunion that had been cut short in the store. It was all the answer Lorrie needed. This time she simply enjoyed the comfort of being in her friend's embrace. When at last they parted, Lorrie wiped away the sudden moisture in her eyes. "I'll get my things." she said softly, turning towards her rental car.

A few moments later, she was sitting in Bethany's front seat, beginning to find some of the relaxation she'd come here to find as Bethany nimbly maneuvered out of the parking lot.

As Bethany drove down the main street of town, and turned off into one of the smaller neighborhoods, she check the rear view mirror, just in case there might be cars following them, but she didn't see one. Even so, she took a winding was through quite a few side streets. The silence between the two young women wasn't uncomfortable, just slightly tense with the possibilities of relearning about each other.

"I don't think anyone is following us, not that I would expect them too. You should at least have a quiet night with me, Lorrie." It took a moment for Bethany to realize what she had said, and blushed slightly, as they pulled into her small driveway. Bethany owned a small ranch house, which was the style of most of the houses in her neighborhood. She got out, and helped gather Lorrie's things to take them inside. Their eyes met briefly, and again Bethany searched, and found, the middle school best friend she remembered, and wanted to have back.

"Welcome to my home. It's not much, but I'm very comfortable here. We can take your things to the guest room. I always keep it ready for guests."

The second bedroom was small, barely enough room for a twin bed, nightstand, and bureau with mirror. Bethany immediately opened the small closet and set Lorrie's bag inside. The room was painted a soft tan color, the sheets chocolate brown and light brown. Bethany tended towards earth tones, thinking them warm and soothing. Bethany gave Lorrie a light hug, and held her at arms length, looking searchingly for a moment.

"Just relax, Lorrie-bear. Make yourself comfortable, and I'll get something together for dinner. I'll be in the kitchen if you need me." Bethany beamed, then gave Lorrie a very tight squeeze, holding it for several moments.

"I missed you so much." The tears started to come as all the times that Bethany had been lonely over the years flooded back. Stepping away, Bethany wiped her eyes, then turned to go into the kitchen.

Lorrie sat back in the seat, just letting her eyes drink in the sight of her friend as Bethany drove them to her home. Lorrie couldn't get over the short hair style, so different from how she remembered Bethany from before. She thought to say something about it - there was so much she wanted to say to Bethany - but she felt like the words would all rush out at once, choking her. So she sat quietly, just watching the sleepy little town of her childhood go by out of Bethany's window. But she didn't really see the houses and streets as they slid by. She only had eyes for her friend.

It didn't seem to take long to reach Bethany's home, though Lorrie didn't notice the time passing. The modest house was cozy and neat. Best of all it reflected the warmth and welcoming feeling that Bethany herself seemed to exude. Lorrie knew she'd be happy here. Then again, she imagined she could be happy anywhere if Bethany were with her.

Bethany showed her to her room. It was a little small compared to the hotel suites that Lorrie was used to, but she felt more welcome here than anywhere she'd been since leaving home.

"Just relax, Lorrie-bear. Make yourself comfortable, and I'll get something together for dinner. I'll be in the kitchen if you need me."

Lorrie grinned when she heard her old nickname. Only Bethany ever called her that, and hearing it made her feel warm inside. The next thing she knew, she was in Bethany's embrace, both of their bodies seeming to fit together like they were molded that way, like they were two halves of a whole. Lorrie loved the feeling. It was like they'd never really been apart. Almost.

But they had. And it showed when Bethany pulled back, her eyes brimming with the tears of her strong emotions. Her whispered words touched Lorrie, and she wanted to pull Bethany back into her embrace and hold her forever. But they each had things to do, and as Bethany turned to leave, wiping her tears way, Lorrie watched her go, speechless for a moment ad her own emotions roiled within her.

Alone again, she looked at her suitcase as if it were a foreign object. There was no meaning to it, no urgency or importance to putting her possessions away, not when Bethany was so near and they were together at last. Lorrie's mind was made up in that instant. Ignoring her luggage, she followed after the one thing that mattered, really mattered to her.

She found her way into the kitchen, pausing to watch Bethany from behind as she worked. Lorrie approached her quietly, speaking softly only when she was close enough to feel the warmth of her body. She reached out to touch Bethany's hair, letting it slip like silk through her fingers. "This is new. So different from the way you used to wear it. Short and just a little sassy. I like it, Beth. So how long have you been wearing it like that?"

Lorrie reached for a knife from the set in the butcher block on the counter as Bethany removed some fresh vegetables from the grocery bag. "Why don't you let me help, Beth. I'm no great shakes as a cook, but I could probably chop veggies with out messing them up too bad." she joked.

Bethany walked slowly through the hall, and grabbed a tissue as she went through the living room into the kitchen. She wiped her eyes and took a halting breath. Bethany hadn't been prepared for such strong emotions at seeing Lorrie again. In the kitchen, she grasped the counter to steady herself, then started to gather the necessary item for dinner.

Chicken thighs, potatoes, lettuce, tomatoes, celery, carrots, fresh rolls. Bethany has always loved cooking, and as she placed each other on the counter, she forced her mind away from Lorrie for the moment, and on the meal. She opened the package of chicken thighs and placed them in a dish for baking adding seasoning. She didn't hear Lorrie arrive until she felt fingers brushing through her hair.

"This is new. So different from the way you used to wear it. Short and just a little sassy. I like it, Beth. So how long have you been wearing it like that?"

Bethany let out a strangled sort of noise, between a moan and a squeal. She was surprised by the touch, but the tingling feeling then went down her neck and spine was something very new.

"This is new. So different from the way you used to wear it. Short and just a little sassy. I like it, Beth. So how long have you been wearing it like that?" Bethany gulped. She couldn't find her voice for a moment as Lorrie reached for the knife.

"Why don't you let me help, Beth. I'm no great shakes as a cook, but I could probably chop veggies with out messing them up too bad." Bethany gave a small nervous laugh, but couldn't shake the feeling that she wanted Lorrie to touch her hair again. Blinking rapidly, Bethany took several stalks of celery and placed them on a plastic cutting board. She couldn't bring herself to meet Lorrie's eye.

"I, um, cut it a few weeks ago. A friend convinced me to try it. Before that, my hair was still straight and almost down to my but. It was a lot to handle though." Lorrie quickly went to the end of the counter to wash her hands after handing the chicken, but returned to see Lorrie rather awkwardly chopping up the celery. Bethany being somewhat of a perfectionist in the kitchen, moved right beside Lorrie, and placed her hands on top of Lorrie's.

"Even slices, about a half inch long, like this." Bethany guided Lorrie left hand with the celery, and moved her right hand with the knife up and down to chop the celery. Bethany tried to ignore the smoothness and softness of Lorrie's hands, or the soft scent of her perfume. Once Lorrie seemed to get the hang of it, Bethany moved back to the side, feeling very flushed. She took the potatoes to the sink, starting to scrub them, and had to raise her voice to speak over the water.

"So tell me about being a big star? You must love being able to sing for so many people. I always loved your voice, Lorrie. It's so moving and beautiful." Bethany turned her face slightly towards Lorrie as she spoke, but couldn't meet Lorrie's eye.

Lorrie listened to Bethany's reply as she began to maul the innocent celery. She nodded, "I remember. Your hair was always so long and soft. But this new look suits you. It's cute and playful. I've thought of a different style, but my agent says the people are used to seeing me like this, so to change would affect my 'recognition factor', whatever that is." Lorrie rolled her eyes, more to herself, since her attention was on butchering the woeful celery.

And in the next moment, Bethany was behind her, reaching around her, her hands on Lorrie's, guiding her cutting motions. The contact, as innocent and casual as it was, brought Lorrie's breath up short, but she laughed nervously to cover it. "I may have been premature in my estimate of my cutting skills it seems. Like this?" she said as Bethany showed her how. She turned her head to glance at Bethany, blushing as she realized how close it brought their lips together. Lorrie suddenly felt a strong impulse to kiss her friend in a way that was decidedly not platonic.

Lorrie had kissed women before, usually as part of a party dare when she was running with that crowd in high school, and during her early college years there had been more than kisses. But this was different somehow. Those times were simply explorations of what might feel good; shallow experimentation without any true feeling behind it. Yet here, this feeling that took such sudden root in her, the thoughts she was having involving Bethany, were surprising to her.

She turned back to her task, hoping the blush she felt heating her cheeks didn't give away her inner turmoil. When Bethany moved away, it was a mercy of sorts, a temporary end to the moment of intimacy that came with the accompaniment of such intense and unexpected feelings. And yet Lorrie felt a strange sense of loss, as if she missed what should have happened, but didn't. It was almost a longing ache that confused her. This was Bethany. She shouldn't be feeling this way about her.....should she?

Bethany's question was almost lost in Lorrie's confused reverie, except that she spoke slightly louder to be heard over the sound of the running faucet. Lorrie smiled, relieved to have a change of subject to ease her mind from the unexpected turn of her thoughts. Keeping her eyes intently on her celery chopping, she replied, "Oh, well, it's....it's definitely fun, most of the time. I like it. There's nothing like singing in front of a huge crowd, feeling their energy flowing back to me. It's a weird kind of give and take that's hard to describe. I give myself to them through my songs, and they give their energy back to me through their applause and....well, it's just hard to explain. I probably sound crazy, talking like this, but it's true."

"That's the part I really like. The business part of it isn't always so fun. I'm a hot property to be marketed, is how it seems sometimes. And as you saw earlier, the crowds are everywhere. There really is no place I can go to just be myself. It's something I never really thought of when I went on Idol. But when everywhere I go, people are watching, and seeing everything I do, hearing everything I say, I always have to be careful. To be honest, I miss just being able to be myself, with my own bad habits and less than attractive features sometimes. Lord help me if I ever toot in public or something; it'd be all over the tabloids the next day!"

Lorrie paused in her celery chopping as she realized that the words pouring so freely out of her mouth reflected the true thoughts that she had been thinking lately. She realized how bitter and ungrateful she must sound to Bethany. Or to anyone who only could see the easy life of luxury, fame, and fortune that her talent and lucky break had provided her. She sighed, forcing those feelings back down and putting on her public face again.

"Listen to me, I sound like I'm ungrateful. I shouldn't complain, Beth. It's a good life, really. I don't lack anything I need, and I can afford to live pretty much any way I want now. I know most people would dream of having my life." She smiled, the curve of her lips masking the slight hint of sadness in her eyes as she realized that she had shut down the openness she had always had with her best friend, putting on that same mask she put on for her fans and the people around her, not letting them in, not letting them close to her. She'd never been able to let anyone know the real person she was. No one, that is, except Bethany. And now she realized she had just shut Bethany out like all the others.

'No damn it!' she thought to herself as her 'public smile' faded. 'Not Beth! Never Bethany!' She was the one person Lorrie could be herself with. Realization dawned on Lorrie that it was what she'd been longing for, what she came here searching for. It wasn't this place she came to visit. It was this person, her one true friend. And she wasn't willing to give that up, not now that she'd just found it again.

She heaved a sigh before continuing, turning from her celery to face Bethany squarely, honestly. This was her friend, and she would be open with her. "I don't know why I'm going on like this, Beth. It's just that lately....it just doesn't seem like as much fun as it used to be. Maybe I just need this vacation. I don't know. I've just been feeling lately like something is missing, like I need something more that just isn't there. I've got everything I need, everything anyone could possibly want. So I don't know why I feel like there is still something I want, something I don't have."

Lorrie absently wiped the moisture from her eyes, uncertain as to when or why it had gathered there. "After the concert last night I went back to my hotel suite and it just felt like a big empty room. I don't know why I expected anything else; I knew it wasn't like a home, after all. But it had never bothered me before, staying in a place like that. And then I had a dream about being here, in McConnelsville, again. When I woke up, I realized I needed a break, so I called Barry and told him I was taking a vacation. He didn't like it of course; it messed up his plans for me. But I had to. I just felt like there was something here for me that I needed, something I missed that I hadn't felt since Mom and I moved away from here. Does that make any sense?"

Lorrie shrugged, as if finally getting her thoughts out in the open was a relief in itself, even though none of her feelings had been settled. "Anyhow, that's how I ended up here. And when I saw you in the IGA, I knew I made the right decision coming back here like this." She paused, meeting Bethany's eyes when she turned back to her before continuing in a quieter voice. "I really missed you too, Beth. I didn't realize how much. I think maybe you're the reason I needed to come back here."

Once Lorrie started to speak, Bethany sensed that she should let Lorrie continue, without interruption. So many people thought Bethany was incredibly shy, almost mute, but Bethany knew better than most people when to speak and when not to.

As Lorrie continued, Bethany took a step forwards a long the counter, and then another, so that soon, only a foot of empty space was between them. The conflict was all over Lorrie's face, in her eyes, her lips, a tightness in the jaw. Bethany wanted to tell her friend to give it all up and start a new quiet, comfortable life in McConnelsville, but that was a selfish thought. Bethany was glad that Lorrie was opening up. There was subtle hints of relaxation as she spoke, but not complete.

"I really missed you too, Beth. I didn't realize how much. I think maybe you're the reason I needed to come back here."

Bethany lifted her arm and squeeze Lorrie's elbow. The meal seemed forgotten at the moment. Suddenly the stove chimed, signally it had preheated completely, and with flushed cheeks, Bethany quickly put the chicken in the oven. She returned to the counter, starting to chop up the other vegetables.

"I don't like hearing you speak of yourself as an object, which is what it sounds like. At the call of people who don't know you." There was sudden anger in Bethany's voice, a fierce sense of protection that she couldn't hold back. She had to set down the knife and stare ahead at the cabinets. She took a breath, making her voice clam again. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Lorrie watching her, not having moved in the last few moments.

"I wont demand anything from you, Lorrie-bear. Nothing at all. You can stay as long as you like. I'll even give you a key if you want to go out while I'm at work. If you need anything at all, just ask, day or night." Bethany met Lorrie's eyes and smiled. The intensity of Lorrie's look make Bethany turn red and and feel a flush that went far past her cheeks. A bit embarrassed, Bethany quickly finished preparing the vegetables, place them in a bowl with lettuce, and placed it on the table.

"Would you like to get drinks? I don't have soda, but I do have water, juice, milk, and I think a bottle of red wine somewhere. I don't drink much, but perhaps it's a god night to celebrate, don't you think? You chose what you want and I'll get the bread out."

Bethany had to get out, take a breath, think for a moment. The bread was in a cabinet upstairs, but Bethany instead hurried to the basement door, and went down, flicking the light on. She hurried to the washer and placed her hands on the cool metal. Her heart was racing. What was going on? Was it just happiness of having her best friend home? Was it more? All Bethany could think, was that she wanted to take Lorrie in her arms and hold her tightly, all evening, comfort her, make her feel good again.

She bent over and touched her forehead to the washer top, then stood up again. She'll think something wrong and follow me down. Bethany looked around, and found a table cloth that she had just laundered, and rushed back upstairs, not seeing Lorrie. Bethany put the cloth on the dining room table and waiting. Perhaps it was a REALLY good night for a glass of wine.

Lorrie paused, waiting to see how Bethany would react to what she'd said. She was taking a chance, opening up like that to someone. But it was Bethany she was with now, and she'd decided to be open about how she felt. If she couldn't be herself--her real self--around Bethany, then there was nobody in the world that she could be herself with. And the realization was taking root in her mind that she needed someone she could trust and be with, openly and honestly, without any pretense or putting up any false fronts. It seemed like that was exactly what she'd unknowingly been searching for, and Bethany was that person for her.

Lorrie felt Bethany's understanding touch on her arm, a gesture seemingly casual, yet full of meaning and comfort. It meant Bethany understood. It meant she sympathized. It was a signal that Lorrie could trust her, and that no matter what she said, or how she said it, Bethany would still accept her as her friend, without passing judgment. Yet the simple gesture was interrupted by the oven timer, Lorrie sensed, before the full import of it's meaning was conveyed. Lorrie watched Bethany put the chicken in the oven, and she sensed that there was more that Bethany had meant to say, or maybe that the simple touch of reassurance might have been only a start.

Instead she studied her friend as Bethany went back to preparing the meal, taking over cutting the vegetables while Lorrie stood by. Her movements seemed 'choppy', as if there was a tension behind them, misdirected towards the vegetables. Lorrie waited for the reaction she knew would come from her friend, but when it finally did, even she was a little surprised at the fierce protectiveness carried in Bethany's tone. The way she stared straight ahead, as if not trusting herself to meet Lorrie's eyes, concerned about betraying the strength of her anger at those who seemed to be using Lorrie, was surprising and also touching to Lorrie. Bethany, her Bethany, her caring and loyal friend, was showing her protective side, ready to rear up and scratch at the world to defend her Lorrie-bear.

Lorrie couldn't help but stare so intensely at her friend, lost in the unexpected feelings that Bethany's response had stirred in her. It was almost too much to think through so soon. Lorrie was feeling a mixture of emotions and needed time to sort them out.

Bethany turned to her, saying, "I wont demand anything from you, Lorrie-bear. Nothing at all. You can stay as long as you like. I'll even give you a key if you want to go out while I'm at work. If you need anything at all, just ask, day or night." Lorrie's breath caught in her throat, hearing her friend's declaration. Bethany would do that. She would give Lorrie anything, go to any length, even giving of herself to the point of sacrifice, all for her friend. The knowledge touched Lorrie profoundly, the contrast between the true friendship offered by Bethany and that disguised self interest of those so-called friends who surrounded her in every aspect of her life now, becoming even more pronounced.

The warmth of Bethany's smile, the caring light in those friendly brown eyes, made Lorrie's blue-grey eyes mist up. Bethany turned away to finish preparing the vegetables, sparing both of them the embarrassment of another tear shedding. The suggestion of a drink was a welcome change of subject, at least for the moment. But Lorrie suspected this topic would come up again during her visit. For now though, sharing a bottle of wine between them seemed like a wonderful idea.

Lorrie found the wine easily enough, but wasn't sure where to find a corkscrew. She was about to ask Bethany when she heard the door to the basement close. Turning, she saw that she was alone for the moment, and decided to take the time to get herself together a little. She left the wine on the counter top, and found her way to the bathroom. Looking in the mirror revealed the smudges around her eyes where her tears had streaked her make up. That was the trouble with crying, even when those feelings had to come out somehow.

Quickly she fixed herself up, regaining her composure as well. Focusing on the simple problem of opening the wine allowed her mind to relax again. She remembered the old Swiss Army pocket knife that had been her father's, one of the few possessions of his that she still carried with her. She left the bathroom and retrieved it from her suitcase before heading back to the kitchen.

She passed through the dining room, seeing Bethany seated at the table. "Oh, that's a nice tablecloth. It sets the mood for us, doesn't it? I feel like a special guest. Are you sure it's not any trouble?"

Lorrie quickly grabbed the wine bottle and a couple glasses from the cupboard, returning to the table. "I didn't know where you keep your corkscrew, so I got Dad's old pocket knife. I never imagined I'd use it for this, but I'm glad I still had it." She opened the wine and poured a little for each of them, handing one glass to Bethany before holding hers up, proposing a toast. "To friendships renewed."

As Lorrie sipped her wine, her eyes studied Bethany over the rim of her glass, noting the lack of a wedding band. She also had noticed the lack of toys throughout the house. "Not that I mean to pry, Beth, but do you live here alone? If I'm staying here, is there anyone else I should know about so I don't prowl the halls naked or something? I'd hate to give someone the shock of their life." she joked.

"To friendships renewed."

Bethany touched Lorrie's glass with her own, mouthing, "To Friendship", and beamed, eyes sparkling. She sipped the wine, trying not to pull a face. It was her wine, for special occaisions like this, but didn't drink much and wasn't used to it.

"Not that I mean to pry, Beth, but do you live here alone? If I'm staying here, is there anyone else I should know about so I don't prowl the halls naked or something? I'd hate to give someone the shock of their life."

Bethany's mind didn't go to answering the first question. Her mind suddenly had a vision of Lorrie, beautiful woman she was, walking around the house naked. Bethany's gasped and turn beet red, and looked down. She struggled to compose herself, and didn't raise her eyes before answering quietly.

"I'm here alone. I haven't been on a date in..." she actually had to think about that one for a moment before continuing. "It's be three years." Bethany shrugged. The idea made her feel small, and boring. She sipped her wine again.

She heard the whispers around town, those that had grown over the last few years. Bethany Stroud was a nice girl, but she was frigid, not interested in men. Some of the rumors had even suggested that she was a lesbian. Most of the young women in town had already gotten married and started families. It was something that Bethany did want, but the young men that did ask her out weren't men that she was interested in. She could have said this to Lorrie, but at the moment, she was too embarrassed to do so.

"I'll go check on the chicken," she said, standing up and leaving her glass of wine. As she bent over to look into the hot over, tears dripped down onto the open oven door. Bethany added more seasoning, and then closed the oven. She took the bread out, sliced it and brought the bread and salad out to the table. Her eyes were still wet as she looked at Lorrie.

"You are a special guest, Lorrie. The most special guest I could have." Bethany took a napkin and wiped her eyes. "I hope you like the meal. I prefer simple food, not the exciting things I'm sure you are used to." She served two plates and put one in front of Lorrie.

Lorrie watched Bethany's reaction with a grin. "You see? I'm already shocking you, just with the thought! Don't worry. I'll try to be modest." She winked and smiled, but the smile slowly faded when Bethany murmured her reply. Lorrie sensed the embarrassment behind Bethany's words and downcast gaze. She wanted to say something to make her friend feel better, but she didn't know what to say that wouldn't sound like pity or just make things worse.

Three years was a long time to go between dates, but in truth, Lorrie's social life wasn't a whole lot better. Sure there were social engagements - lots of them - but they were all superficial and hollow. Lorrie sipped her wine, unsure how to ease the moment of awkward silence between them. Bethany seemed lost in her own thoughts, until she abruptly excused herself to check on the meal. While she was gone, Lorrie had time to think about what her friend's life must be like.

She'd been thinking of saying something about her own lackluster dating experiences, but it just seemed like it would be crass and self-centered. And yet to talk about Bethany's life, or to ask about why it had been so long, seemed like it would be prying, and would probably just make her feel bad. Lorrie didn't want to do either of those things. What she felt like doing was wrapping her arms around Bethany and just holding her, letting her know someone cared about her. But after years of being out of touch, would that even seem sincere?

Bethany returned, bringing in bread and salad. Lorrie started to rise to help in some way, but there was nothing to be done. Instead, she stood by, waiting a little awkwardly until Bethany set down all that she carried. Lorrie couldn't help but notice the unspilled wetness brimming in Bethany's eyes. Her heart went out to her friend, but she didn't want to make an issue of what Bethany had just revealed.

Instead, she tried to lighten the mood a bit, running her hand along Bethany's shoulders and down her back in a casual caress. "Well, it looks like I've got you all to myself then. And I won't have to worry about sharing this wonderful meal with anyone but you, Beth. There is definitely nobody else I'd rather be with than you." Her voice betrayed more of her feelings than she intended. Her words were casual, lighthearted. But her tone was one of unspoken desires.

The feeling of loneliness welled up inside Bethany, enough to bring more tears, and she almost broke when Lorrie began to caress her back. It was incredibly comforting, yes somehow strange, almost foreign. It felt like a lover's caress.

"Well, it looks like I've got you all to myself then. And I won't have to worry about sharing this wonderful meal with anyone but you, Beth. There is definitely nobody else I'd rather be with than you."

Bethany turned completely to face Lorrie, opening her mouth to speak, but the words never made it to her lips. 'It looks like I've got you all to myself then.' The words were ringing in Bethany's ears. She wanted to run away, so afraid suddenly, but at the same time, grab Lorrie and embrace her and lot let go. She was so confused. A moment's confused thoughts brought her back to dinner, which was steaming on the table.

"We... we should eat... before it gets c-c-cold." The words came out in a stutter and Bethany turned bright red. She sat suddenly, moving away from Lorrie, taking a napkin to wipe around her eyes. It suddenly felt like it was all going wrong. Her normally calm self was incredibly confused. What was happening?

Bethany picked up a fork and started picking at her chicken, but didn't eat a bite. Lorrie was silent and hadn't sat down yet. It made Bethany feel even more uncomfortable, but she didn't know what to do.

Lorrie didn't know how to react. She had thought Bethany was about to embrace her again. She realized as she stood there in silence that she had been hoping for that. It would have broken the tension that seemed to have developed between them, all because of the topic of conversation. She still didn't know what to say, but she thought that if she could just change the subject, maybe to some lighter topic, perhaps they could get back that closeness they had only a short time ago.

Lorrie sat quietly and began to eat, glancing out of the corner of her eyes at her friend, wondering what she could say to ease things between them again. In a soft voice, she commented, "It's very good, Beth. I don't often get to enjoy a home cooked meal. This is a treat for me." She noticed that Bethany wasn't eating much, and it was as if she could feel the gulf growing between them. Had too much time passed? Was it not really possible to pick up where they left off?

Lorrie struggled to find something to say that could get both their minds off of things. "So.....do your mom and dad still live close by? Mom always talked about how much she'd like to visit sometime, but I guess after some of the things that were said about her and Dad back then, she just couldn't come back here." Lorrie shrugged. She still had a good relationship with her mother, though it had been some time since she had been home to visit.

Since her wilder teenage years, they had grown apart. Her mother's small town conservative values just couldn't abide some of the behaviors Lorrie had engaged in. For her part, Lorrie had rebelled somewhat. She admitted it. But it wasn't because she had anything against her mother. It had been a way to try to fit in, to be popular. When they had moved so suddenly, Lorrie had felt like she was ripped out of her home soil by the roots. She'd never been able to feel like she truly belonged anywhere since then.

But running into Bethany this afternoon had brought back that long missed feeling once again. 'Lorrie is still a McConnelsville girl.' Bethany had said. And it was true, despite the fame and fortune. Right now, all Lorrie wanted to do was spend her time with her friend, and feel like she belonged somewhere again. She made up her mind that this mood that had seemed to come up between them as not going to steal that feeling away.

Impulsively, she reached out to cover Bethany's hand with her own. "Hey Beth, you know what I want to do after supper? I think it would be great to sit on that front porch swing I saw when we arrived, and we could just talk and have another glass of wine. Don't you think that would be fun? Remember when we used to do that and talk about the boys in school? We could catch up on things and just watch the cars go by."

As Lorrie watched Bethany's face earnestly, awaiting her answer, she absently stroked the back of Bethany's hand with her fingertips, her touch light, not even aware of what she was doing.

"So.....do your mom and dad still live close by? Mom always talked about how much she'd like to visit sometime, but I guess after some of the things that were said about her and Dad back then, she just couldn't come back here."

Bethany sighed. It wasn't that she didn't want to talk about her parents, but she knew it was an attempt to change the subject and lighten the mood. She hesitated, then responded, not wanting to extend the uncomfortable silence.

"They live a few blocks away. I would take you over there to say hello, but they are away visiting my Mom's sister in New London. It's the furthest they've traveled in a long time. Three hours!" Bethany laughed softly, against a little embarrassed about something. Lorrie had traveled seen so much, and Bethany and her family were such hometown people, and preferred it that way. Bethany' went quiet again and picked at her food again. "And thank you for your compliment. I love cooking like this. I really wish I had someone to cook for. I eat leftovers so often." She shrugged, then turned even redder.

The touch of Lorrie's hand seemed to melt a lot of the tension away. Warm, familiar, gentle. Bethany finally lifter her face and gazed at Lorrie. She realized that her stomach had been clenched, thinking about loneliess and the possibilities that were long past.

"Hey Beth, you know what I want to do after supper? I think it would be great to sit on that front porch swing I saw when we arrived, and we could just talk and have another glass of wine. Don't you think that would be fun? Remember when we used to do that and talk about the boys in school? We could catch up on things and just watch the cars go by."

Bethany nodded and smiled. Without another word, she took the food away to put it away, getting out containers. She was unsure what to say to Lorrie now. Though the tension was abating, the confusing was still there and eating at her. What was going on? This should be easy. It's Lorrie-bear. Bethany turned to get the plates from the table, but found Lorrie there, already holding them, smiling.

"You don't have to help, Lorrie-bear. You're my guest. I just want you to relax and not have to do anything. I know you have so many demands on you, all the time. You don't have any here." Bethany managed a smile as she took the plates, pushed the food into the trash and placed the dishes into the dishwasher.

Bethany was about to say that she was ready to go outside, when she saw a flash through the window, and heard a rumble of thunder. It was still a ways away, but getting closer. The sky outside suddenly looked dark.

"Do you still want to go out front? I... I don't really like storms much." Bethany turned away. She didn't like admitting it. It was the one thing she was scared off, thunderstorms. Her book shook slightly as she gripped the counter.

Lorrie smiled at her friend's assurance. "It's alright. I really don't mind helping, Beth. After all, you're opening your home and your life to me, putting up with me staying here. The very least I can do is lend a hand. 'And never let it be said I didn't try to do the least I could do.'" She added the last part in an attempt at humor. It was one of her favorite jokes, even back when she was a kid. Her mother used to complain that she never followed through on her chores around the house, so she'd come up with the quip to make light of the situation. It had always made her mom smile. Lorrie knew her mother couldn't stay mad at her over such minor things if she could only make her smile. It was instinctive to use the same disarming line for Beth.

Lorrie noticed the flash of lightening and heard the low rumble that followed it. But to her, it was the first echo of the thrill of excitement that she felt inside. Her memories took her back in that instant to times she had spent on her own family's porch swing, feeling the thrill as the wind picked up, blowing on her face, cooling her after a hot summer afternoon. The energy would be palpable in the very air, building a feeling of anticipation and excitement inside her. Suddenly it dawned on her that the same feeling of excitement rippled through her the moment she stepped out on stage before a full crowd. She realized that she had always craved that excitement. And she wanted to share it with Beth.

Lorrie noticed the look of hesitation on Bethany's face, the slightest of trembles shivering through her. She was torn for a moment between wanting to share the thrill with Bethany, and wanting to spare her any more reason for being ill at ease. But things were growing more awkward between them as the moments passed, and Lorrie made her decision in an instant. Bethany might be uncomfortable, but at least it would be the storm that upset her and not Lorrie.

"Actually, Beth, I really do want to, with you." She took Bethany's two hands in each of hers, pulling her towards the hall that led to the front door and out to the porch. "Come on, it will be fun. You'll see." she said, her voice quiet and reassuring. Lorrie caught the look of growing apprehension in Bethany's eyes as she met them with her own, looking deep to instill trust in her friend. She could feel the nervous trembling now through Bethany's hands as she stepped backwards along the hall, leading Bethany with her. "I'll be right there with you. We'll be under the porch roof, so we won't get wet. We'll be fine. Sometimes in life, you just have to try something that scares the hell out of you, Beth. And sometimes, you find out that the best feeling you ever have is being scared out of your wits, with a friend by your side."

Bethany resisted a little, even after Lorrie's words, starting to shake hard as the reached the front door. She couldn't do this, even will Lorrie. It would be too frightening. She would make a fool of herself in front of her best friend. She couldn't do that. When she couldn't open the front door, she motioned weakly for Lorrie to do it, and there was a rush of warm, moist wind as the went out onto the porch.

Dark clouds filled the sky, and the wind start to pick up as they moved to the porch swing. It creaked a little as Lorrie sat, then Bethany joined her. Bethany refused to let go of Lorrie's hands. She gripped like a vice, hands sweaty with fear, fighting hard the instinct to run inside. Bethany tried looking at the sky, seeing the flashes of lightning, the growing rumbles of thunder, but couldn't. She stared at the light-colored siding, which was blocked by Lorrie's hair which was whipping slightly int he wind.

"It's too much. I can't. I can't. I can't. I can't." Bethany sounded completely panicked. "I hate storms. Something will happen. We'll get struck my lighting. We'll lose power. We'll..." She started to sob hysterically. She pulled back, releasing Lorrie's hands, but found Lorrie's arms pulling her back, into Lorrie's body.

There was a close flash of lightning and a loud rumble of thunder that seemed to last for moments, and the storm was on them. The rain began suddenly, in sheets, some of the raindrops hitting them even under the porch canopy.

Bethany couldn't stop shaking or crying, and she was embarrassed on top of it. She didn't want Lorrie to see her like this. She was supposed to be the strong, calm, caring friend, like she was for so many others. She couldn't be a bawling, scared woman, afraid of something as simple as a thunderstorm.

Lorrie knew it was taking a lot for Bethany to come with her. She could feel it in the trembling hands holding so tightly to hers. Bethany's eyes darted back and forth, looking everywhere but into Lorrie's as Lorrie had hope she would. But they made it to the swing, and despite Bethany's apprehension, Lorrie could feel the first little tingles of energy running through her, thrilling her. She couldn't help the smile that turned up the corners of her mouth.

Lorrie watched the sky, thrilling with each new flash of lightening, the feeling she experienced like that of watching a fireworks show on the fourth of July. She glanced back to Bethany, hoping to see a similar look of exhilaration on her face as well, but instead, Bethany was fixated on the house, staring at the flashes reflected dully from the siding of the house, missing the spectacular light show nature was providing them.

"It's too much. I can't. I can't. I can't. I can't." Bethany sounded completely panicked. "I hate storms. Something will happen. We'll get struck by lighting. We'll lose power. We'll..."

Bethany yanked her hands away. She was losing it, Lorrie realized. The poor woman was terrified beyond rationality, and a twinge of conscience filled Lorrie with guilt. She hadn't meant to panic her friend, only to urge her to experience a new thing in life, to expand her horizons a little. Lorrie quickly captured Bethany in her arms, pulling her into a tight hug, rocking her slowly, gently. "Shhh, it's alright, Beth. We're safe. Nothing will happen. Nothing can hurt us. I've got you."

Bethany was crying and out of control. Lorrie desperately tried to think of what she could do to soothe her friend. Should she take her back inside? Should she make her stay? She just didn't know what to do. She never intended for this to turn out so badly.

And then the rain cut loose, pouring from the sky as if with a vengeance to soak the thirsty ground. The wind whipped Lorrie's hair, even Bethany's shorter locks, and drove a few stinging droplets into their bodies. The contrast of the cold droplets and cool wind, normally a stimulating and welcome relief to the heat for Lorrie, now only served to increase the desperation and panic in her friend. Lorrie held onto Bethany desperately trying to think of how to comfort her.

Another rumble of thunder, distant and low, sounded in the air. The worst of the storm was passing over, but the energy of it was still easily felt. As the lingering echo of the deep rumble faded, only to be replaced by another, Lorrie was suddenly taken back in her memories to a tribute concert two years earlier.

It had been shortly after her winning season on Idol, and she was a hot property in the entertainment industry, taking the country by storm. Barry had arranged for her to perform as part of a tribute concert for Clint Black. It was to be a duet, but at the last moment, Clint had come down with a sore throat and so Lorrie did the song solo, covering his hit. Her small town accent and drawl had been perfect for the song, and the crowd had loved it. It had even gone on to get a lot of airplay on the country radio stations for weeks after, though she hadn't recorded it on any of her albums.

When her thoughts returned to the present, she realized that she had been singing it to Bethany, softly and soothingly, but loud enough to be heard over the wind and rain. The lightening and thunder now seemed to be a natural accompaniment, and Lorrie hoped it would take Bethany's mind off of her fear.

As they rocked together, Bethany held very tightly in Lorrie's arms, she felt like she was going to die, or the world was going to end. Her fear of storms was powerful enough to make her feel that way. In Lorrie's embrace she still pulled away a little, as if to run, but Lorrie's grip was too strong. That strength did calm Bethany slightly, but the loud thunder, the flashes of lightning. It was like Bethany's worst nightmare.

Slowly, at least to Bethany, the storm began to pass. When the rain began to let up, her senses started to return to normal and she could feel Lorrie more, the small of her hair, the beating of her heart. A sudden flash of lingering lightning, made Bethany bury her face in Lorrie's neck. With her eyes closed, something strange happened. She could hear singing. In her nervous haze, she couldn't understand it. Was it an Angel?

No, it couldn't be an Angel. It was just the two of them on the porch swing. Lorrie couldn't know that at her most fearful, Bethany always prayed to her guardian Angel. The thought of someone or something watching over her was always calming. The voice was angelic, incredibly beautiful.

Bethany pulled back just a little and saw Lorrie lips moving. She was singing a beautiful song, that seemed to swallow Bethany's fear. Bethany's heart steady and she stopped shaking completely. Her body rested against Lorrie, suddenly quite content and safe. She was with someone she loved, protected, and a beautiful song was being sung to her.

The release of tension was so strong, that after the song ended, thoughts wandering, Bethany's actually drifted off into a light doze, breathing heavily against Lorrie's next. She had wanted to say thank you for the song, but never said the words.

By the end of the song, the worst of the storm had passed. The thunder rumbles were more distant and not as harsh. The rain had fallen hard and loud for several minutes, but now it seemed almost as if it had expended all its energy. The rain was still falling, only now it was almost gentle by comparison. Summer thundershowers were like that. They came on sudden and harsh, but couldn't last. It seemed to Lorrie like there were many things in life like that, perhaps even the fame of her music career. She wondered as she finished the song whether her career would blow itself out of energy anytime soon.

She realized that Bethany had quieted and calmed sometime during her singing and was resting calmly in her arms, her cheek laying on Lorrie's shoulder. Lorrie was all too aware of the soft tickle of Bethany's regular breathing against her neck. The warm breaths bathed the spot just below her earlobe, where her pulse beat close to the surface. Some of her lovers had discovered the effect that kisses placed on that spot could have on her, but this was Bethany, and the effect of that warm gentle breathing was entirely unintentional. Still, it left her contented and happy, and strangely exhilarated.

She leaned back in the swing, still holding Bethany against her body, her arms wrapped around her friend protectively. Lorrie realized that Bethany was asleep, and found she didn't mind just sitting here like this, holding her friend in her arms. Beth had done this for her. She'd faced a fear that obviously terrified her more than just about anything Lorrie could think of. In all the time she'd known Bethany, Lorrie never knew her to be afraid or unable to handle any situation. It almost seemed like their friendship was a bit one sided at times. Lorrie had always been able to turn to Bethany for help and comfort, no matter what the situation was. Beth had always been there for her, she mused.

And now Bethany had faced what for her must have been a terrible ordeal, and she'd faced it for Lorrie's sake. As Lorrie sat there holding Bethany in her arms, she tried to imagine what Bethany had been feeling moments before. She's been nearly hysterical with panic and fear. And it was probably embarrassing for her to allow Lorrie to see her like that, Lorrie realized. It meant even more to Lorrie now, to have some idea of what Beth had gone through just because she'd asked it of her. The realization made her love her friend even more, and she tightened her embrace, turning to kiss the top of Bethany's head before resting her cheek on her soft brown hair as she pushed the swing into motion with her foot.

The storm rained itself out after a while, leaving the small town smelling fresh and new. Everything seemed to glisten and shine when the sun broke through again at last, and Lorrie smiled to see it. She couldn't believe how incredibly happy she felt sitting in that swing, just holding Bethany and looking out at the world all bright and refreshed. It seemed almost as if the storm had washed away the cares that had troubled her before coming here again. And the wind had blown away the last vestiges of the tension between her and Bethany as well. Or was it only that Bethany seemed so peaceful sleeping on Lorrie's shoulder? Would things still feel this right, this perfect, when she woke up, Lorrie wondered? She found herself earnestly hoping that they would.

The singing continued into a dream that Bethany had. She was caught in a tempest, wind swirling, thunder raging, rain carrying her from the earth into the sky. At the peak of the storm, and Bethany's fear, a voice sounded, clear and strong, along with a soft golden light. The light held her and the song calmed her and she found she was laying on a cloud, naked. She wasn't not scared or embarrassed, both things she would be naked and exposed like that. A hand stroked her shoulder, with slender soft fingers.

In the dream Bethany smile and looked up, to see a woman standing there, with open arms. Bethany felt loved, and stood up to run into the woman's arms, but fell through the cloud, screaming.

Bethany woke with a start, panic in her eyes for a second. Her hand was on Lorrie's neck, arm around her back. Lorrie wasn't singing anymore, but her eyes were warm, and Lorrie smiled. It was like an embrace, and Bethany gripped Lorrie tightly again.

"Thank you, Lorrie-bear. Thank you for making me stay out and staying with me. I was so terrified, but you made me feel better." Bethany's eyes met Lorrie, and then suddenly, Bethany darted forwards and kissed Lorrie's cheek. She pulled back almost instantly. It was a child's kiss, sweet and quick, but it was something Bethany was usually not comfortable with, even with friends.

The clouds had passed, to reveal the deep blue of dusk, and the start of twinkling stars. Bethany rose, feeling flushed, and still a little embarrassed.

"I'm usually winding down by now. I'm going to get change for bed, but maybe we could have some tea?" Bethany still felt close to tears and didn't want to cry in front of Lorrie again, so Bethany gave a watery smile and went inside. She rushed to the bedroom and closed the door. She leaned back against the door and let a few more tears flow down. After wiping the tears away, Bethany went to her closet and disrobed, save her panties, and pulled on a white, short-sleeved eyelet nightgown that came down to her calves.

After washing her face, and brushing her teeth, she stepped back out into the hall, looking for Lorrie. She felt a little guilty for leaving the porch so early, but she needed a little alone time to breathe. Padding into the kitchen she heated some water for tea, waiting for Lorrie to find her.

The feeling was so peaceful, holding Bethany like that, that Lorrie gave a little start when Bethany woke so suddenly. She saw the hint of panic in her eyes again and wondered if she would want to bold for the shelter of the house, even though the storm had passed. She smiled to reassure her friend, and was pleasantly surprised when Bethany hugged her tighter.

"Thank you, Lorrie-bear. Thank you for making me stay out and staying with me. I was so terrified, but you made me feel better."

"Oh Bethany, thank you for coming with me. I didn't realize how much it would bother you or I wouldn't have asked you to do that." Lorrie paused a moment before continuing, "I'm very touched that you went through that...for me. And if I helped to make it easier for you in some small way, I'm glad I could."

Lorrie's words were cut off suddenly when Bethany leaned in and kissed her cheek. It was unexpected. And though it brought a slightly blush to her face, she smiled too, liking the strange way it made her feel inside. It was all too quick for Lorrie's liking though. Bethany rose from the swing, explaining that she was ready to dress for bed. Lorrie barely heard the words. She was struck by how much more alone she felt when Bethany moved away. It was not the sentiment that surprised her, but the intensity of the loneliness that struck her.

Lorrie nodded in response to the invitation for some tea before bed, not trusting her voice not to quaver with the strong feelings that possessed her. She lingered on the swing for a few minutes after Bethany went inside, trying to sort out the emotions she was feeling. For the first time in a long time, she'd felt completely at ease, peaceful, with her friend in her arms. She felt like this was where she belonged. So why did it seem to be so hard to keep that feeling? Why did it seem like the emotions were just another storm to frighten the two of them apart?

Lorrie didn't know what was happening between her and Bethany. She couldn't explain it, but she knew there were moments when her spirit lifted and she felt truly happy in her soul. When she had begun singing during the storm, it hadn't been something she'd thought about or planned. She just did it. But the feeling she had when she held Bethany in her arms had made her feel like singing, and not just because it was her talent. It had been her heart singing, not just her voice.

She knew this on a subconscious level, but Lorrie's thoughts were too confused to figure it out so clearly in her mind. With a sigh, she gave up trying to figure it out and went inside, making her way to the guest room. It was still early for Lorrie, but a nice cup of tea with Bethany on the couch would be nice, she thought. She slipped out of her clothing, pulling a thick robe from her luggage and wrapping it around her, tying the belt. Taking down her tawny blonde hair and removing her earrings, she ran a brush through her locks quickly before heading back to the kitchen to find Bethany.

Lorrie found her there, coming silently to the doorway. Bethany was standing there in her nightgown, her back to Lorrie. Lorrie leaned against the door frame, just watching her friend as she made the preparations for the tea. She wanted to find a reason to hold her friend in her arms again. It felt so good, just right somehow. It made her feel welcome and wanted, and not just in that celebrity way, but for herself and no other reason. But each time they had gotten close, each time she had begun to feel that way again, Bethany had become uncomfortable. Lorrie sensed it.

Lorrie wondered if it had something to do with her fame. Had she become somehow unapproachable, even to Beth? It hadn't seemed that way earlier, but when the subject of her dating life had come up, it had all changed. Things had become awkward between them, and it just seemed like they couldn't get back to the way it was. It made Lorrie want to get that closeness back even more.

She crossed the kitchen, coming up behind Bethany and slipping an arm around her shoulders. "It's been a while since I had a good cup of tea. Do you still make it with mint? I always did like that."

Bethany took time in the kitchen, more than was necessary for just two cups of tea, wanting to make the tea perfect for Lorrie. Just a bit of fresh mint, but also a touch of honey. Not doubt a singer would appreciate some soothing honey. Bethany was just putting the finishing touches on the tray, the honey container, just in case, two napkins, saucers, cups, and a few sugar cookies, when Lorrie arrived.

Bethany was a little scared when she felt Lorrie's touch, glad that she had let go of the teacups. Once the fear had passed, she leaned into Lorrie, tilting her head so that their ears brushed.

"It's been a while since I had a good cup of tea. Do you still make it with mint? I always did like that."

"Of course. most of the things I did back then, I still do, though I make cupcakes in the real oven, not the Easy Bake oven."

Bethany again took the tray, and led Lorrie out to the couch, setting the tray on the coffee table and offer Lorrie a saucer and cup. She gazed at Lorrie in her fluffy towel before picking up her own mug. She flushed slightly.

"You must think I'm really old fashioned, with this nightgown, the tea on a tray, all of this. You must be..." Bethany stopped. She didn't know what Lorrie was doing on a daily basis, but imagined expensive restaurants, designer clothes, frilly underwear. Bethany blushed again and didn't continue her thought, instead sipping her hot tea. The heat seared a little, but she managed not to couch. She decided to change the subject before Lorrie could speak.

"I was thinking about what we could do tomorrow. If you didn't want to go out into public, to avoid getting hounded, we could drive out of town to the state park. We could go to our old secluded spots, have a picnic, hike, enjoy the weather." Bethany smiled, but a little awkwardly. She was struck how elegant Lorrie looked even in just a fluffy towel. Bethany wondered if Lorrie, despite her words would rather not rough it like that.

Bethany lowered her eyes to her cup, looking at the leaf of mint floating in it. She didn't want to be awkward at all around Lorrie, but there was something, some tension in the air she couldn't push away. she couldn't understand it either. Bethany wanted to go to bed and hide and think, but at the same time, she wanted to put her tea down and just cuddle with Lorrie, feel her warm, comforting body, smell her scent, hear her singing again.

"Of course. Most of the things I did back then, I still do, though I make cupcakes in the real oven, not the Easy Bake oven."

Lorrie laughed, the sound of it filling the room. "Yes, I suppose using a real oven speeds things along a bit. But Beth, you always made the best damn cupcakes a light bulb could produce! Remember the tea parties we'd have?" Lorrie hugged her friend as she leaned in close, enjoying that one moment, that shared memory of their past. For that moment, it was like they were two little girls again, totally comfortable in each others presence.

But it was fleeting as Beth gathered up the tray and led the way to the living room. Lorrie followed and hesitated until Bethany took her place on the couch. Then she made sure to sit next to her friend, curling her feet up under her legs. The position caused the thick robe to gap open slightly, but not indecently. A tantalizing glimpse of Lorrie's tan lines from her bathing suit could just be seen from the angle of view that Bethany had.

Lorrie sipped at her tea, the hot liquid soothing and relaxing her as she glanced over to meet Bethany's gaze just as she blushed, saying, "You must think I'm really old fashioned, with this nightgown, the tea on a tray, all of this. You must be..."

Lorrie waited for Bethany to finish her thought, but she only sipped her tea, trailing off with another blush. Lorrie felt a sense of frustration that things seemed to be so awkward between them. She wanted something from Bethany; she didn't even know what. She really couldn't expect anything more from her friend, who had taken her into her home, making her welcome. It was more than Lorrie could have expected or hoped for from anyone else. Yet she felt like she wanted something more from Beth, and the uncertainty of the feeling frustrated her too. Lorrie was about to answer, asking Bethany what she was thinking about her, but just as she took a breath to answer, Bethany changed the subject.

"I was thinking about what we could do tomorrow. If you didn't want to go out into public, to avoid getting hounded, we could drive out of town to the state park. We could go to our old secluded spots, have a picnic, hike, enjoy the weather."

Lorrie smiled at the thought, remembering the times in their past when the two adventurous girls they used to be had traipsed off down the railroad tracks that ran through their small hometown. Now the trains had long since stopped running, as with many small communities, and in a lot of places, the tracks had been ripped up to make bike trails and walking paths. Those long hikes had been occasions to share secrets with each other, and had been the means that their bond of friendship had really solidified. Suddenly Lorrie longed for that opportunity again, and wondered if it would be, could be, the same again.

"Beth, that sounds wonderful! I'd love to go on a long hike with you, and a picnic lunch would be perfect. I doubt anyone would expect to see me in a place like that, so it shouldn't be a problem. But if we can find a seclude spot like you said, it would be better."

Lorrie doubted that anyone would recognize her in a public park, but it was possible. However, she had ulterior reasons to want to be alone with Bethany in a secluded natural setting. She hoped that the peaceful surroundings would let them get back that relaxed feeling between them that they had before dinner, before everything seemed to get weird between them.

Lorrie watched the downcast gaze her friend had, staring down into her tea cup. It bothered her that even here, sitting right next to Bethany, it seemed like they were separated by a gulf that spanned miles. It had all seemed to go wrong when she had asked about anyone else in the house. Bethany had been embarrassed to admit the facts of her dating life, even though Lorrie hadn't asked specifically about it. Why had Beth volunteered that information if she was so uncomfortable with it?

Even now Bethany looked almost timid, as if she wanted to run and hide. Lorrie could almost feel her pulling away again, withdrawing behind a wall where she couldn't follow. She felt a heart wrenching desperation to get back what she seemed to be losing somehow; what she didn't even realize she'd been missing for so long, until now. She leaned out to cover Bethany's hand with her own, waiting until she raised her eyes to meet Lorrie's.

Earnestly, she asked, her voice barely a whisper, afraid of what answer she might receive from her question, "Beth, what's wrong? Did I offend you earlier when I asked about anyone else living here? I'm sorry if I did. Please forgive me. I really want us to get along again, like we did before. Tell me what I can do to get that back. Please?" Lorrie could feel her eyes misting up. Damn it! She didn't want to cry right now. It would only make things harder between them. She blinked to try to make the wetness go away, and it did. It spilled over her lashes and ran down her cheek, a single tear in that one hot flash of intense emotion. Still she held onto Bethany's hand, as if that one physical connection might be all that was preventing them from being separated again.