The Real Boy Next Door

[Flurtayshus]

The Real Boy Next Door (currently closed for rnld1944 and flurtayshus)

Laurel sat down heavily on the red and white striped park bench. The park had been themed after the Candy Land Game and therefore had many references to it such as the peppermint twist bench she sat on, the lollipop balance beam, the gum drop pathway to each activity and the chocolate river slide.

“Go ahead girls, go play.” She instructed the twins with a forced lightness.

She didn’t have to tell them twice. Sidney and Mackenzie took off toward the plastic Candy Castle where King Kandy and Princess Frostina were reported to live. Laurel watched the girls play and felt an intense ache for her own sister, her twin. Laurel still couldn’t believe that Savannah was gone; snatched away just like that and for no good reason.

Gathering up her thick platinum curls and securing them with a scrunchy at the back of her neck, Laurel sighed. What the hell was she going to do? She knew how to do the ‘Aunt’ thing. She was a great aunt. All you had to do was buy the coolest gifts and take the girls to the coolest places and you would forever be in the “Greatest Aunt of All” Hall of Fame. But she knew nothing about what it took to care for two little ones full time.

She wanted to curse her sister for leaving these two precious lives in her incapable hands but mostly she just wanted to curse her for leaving her. Wrapping the last loop around her ponytail, Laurel jerked her hand down in frustration. In the process her watch caught the clasp of her necklace and snapped it in two. The heavy pendant and its chain slid to the ground.

The pendant delicately sculpted of silver had been hand crafted two of a kind by Laurel and Savannah’s brother, Micah. The only other one in the world was now buried with her sister. Seeing the simple infinity symbol of which there were only two, lying in the dirt was her undoing.

The sob seemed to erupt from nowhere and Laurel buried her face in her hands at an attempt not to draw attention to her. Little did she know she had already done that a while ago.

 

[rnld1944]

Alan Baxter

Alan had just picked up his son, Alex, for the weekend. Stopping at the park on the way home was always a good way to run off some of his energy before heading to the house on Friday evening. After we parked, Alex jumped from the car and headed straight for the Candy Land play area .... we had been here several times before and he knows where everything is.

Following Alex to the play area, I see two little girls .... about the same age as Alex .... and definitely twins ..... already at play. Off to the side, on one of the benches, I see only one adult. Her head is buried in her hands .... but even so, the platinum head was instantly recognized as my neighbor, Laurel. I had heard from some of the neighbors that Laurel's sister had died in a car accident and that Laurel had taken the girls into her home.

Not quite sure what to say, or do .... standing there watching Alex and the twins play .... Laurel suddenly looked up .... her eyes red, obviously overcome still with the loss and sudden responsibility for two little girls. I noticed that she had dropped her necklace and pendant to the ground .... picking it up I handed it to her ... still not knowing what to say .... but realizing that I must say something ...

"I'm so sorry to hear about your sister .... I know we don't know each other that well .... but since my son, Alex, is here to spend a few days with me, maybe the girls would like to come over and play for a while ... give you a little break?"

 

[rnld1944]

Deleted.

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

Laurel looked up startled. She’d known he was in the park but she hadn’t seen or heard him approach. You have got to get it together she chastised herself.

“Umm, I’m sorry,” She apologized while wiping her face with the backs of her hands. “What’s your name again?”

Laurel was insanely embarrassed that she couldn’t remember this mans’ name and he lived right next door to her but he was gracious enough not to point it out.

Instead, he offered her his hand. “I’m Alan. Alan Baxter and that’s my son, Alex.”

Laurel glanced over at an auburn haired little boy with a light dusting of freckles on the apples of his cheeks and nodded. “Thank you for your offer Mr. Baxter…”

“Alan.” He gently interrupted her, seating himself beside her on the bench.

“Well, thank you Alan, “ She began again. “But I just don’t think it’s a good…”

Laurel was cut off by the boisterous voice of Mackenzie or Mack for short running towards her head long as usual. “Aunt Lo Lo? Can we play wif Alex?”

Her little niece gestured to the auburn haired boy on her heels. The little boy smiled and Laurel found herself smiling back. He was so full of life, just like her Mack.

“Alex says his daddy has a trampo….a trampooo…” Mackenzie tried several times to repeat Alex’s boast and then settled on, “ A jumpy thing.”

Laurel’s immediate reaction was to shake her head no. Absolutely not in no uncertain terms and just when she was about to voice it she heard Alan’s low voice.

“It’s a small one. Not the big kind. This one barely sits 5 inches off the ground, maybe three feet wide. No hurt factor I swear. And I’ll watch ‘em.”

Laurel frowned. She couldn’t understand why a few words from this stranger seemed to make things seem okay.

“Are you sure it’s okay? Because I couldn’t bear it if something…”

“Nothing will happen. I swear it on my life.” Alan had no sooner said the words than he grimaced awkwardly. “Bad choice of words. I promise they won’t get hurt.”

“Aunt Lo Lo please!!” Sid had joined in her sister’s pleas’ and Laurel just didn’t have the heart or the energy to deny them.

“Ok. But be careful.”

The three munchkins burst into whoops of laughter and ran for the road.

“Halt!” Alan’s voice wasn’t a yell but it was definitely stern and could be heard.

All three children stopped dead in their tracks.

“You do not leave the park without holding my hand. That’s a rule. A rule means something that always has to happen. Do you guys understand?

“Yes daddy.” Little Alex’s eyes were wide in his bid to please his father.

The twins followed suit and held up their hands ready to grasp his.

“That’s better.” Alan praised the children taking his son and loading him up on his back and then taking one of the twin’s hands in each of his. “Hold on tight Alex.”

Alan turned back to Laurel who was still sitting on the bench watching the whole display.

“We’ll be at the house. Take your time. I’ll be there whenever you are ready.”

Laurel nodded as she watched this man walk off with all she had left of her sister and wondered for a fleeting moment if he could possibly be a kidnapper or something equally abhorrent. She immediately dismissed the notion though when she thought back on how he’d been with his own son.

Laurel smiled at the twins and the way the skipped down the sidewalk next to Alan. She only had one thought in that moment. Thank god for the Alan Baxter’s in the world.

 

[rnld1944]

Alan Baxter

Sensing Laurel's apprehension at my suggestion of letting the little one's play together, I take a seat on the park bench and watch them playing together on the playground. Soon, all 3 are headed in our direction and Mackenzie is excitedly asking her Aunt if they can come over and play on the trampoline Alex has in the back yard. I see Laurel tense up at the idea, but immediately try to reassure her that it is just one of the small ones ... close to the ground ... not very big. "Really, it's more something to just jump up and down on, not a real trampoline."

Somewhat reluctantly, but also with a little relief in her eyes, she agrees and the kids all start running toward my car.

"Halt", I hear myself say ... and Alex knows exactly what I mean, and all 3 kids stop in their tracks. "You do not leave the park without holding my hand. That's a rule."

Turning to Laurel, "Take a few minutes .... I'll take the kids home with me .... we'll be in the back yard until you get there." You look up at me .... still a little apprehensive .... but a hint of a smile comes thru ... "OK", I hear you say.

Hurrying to the kids, I put Alex on my back ... then take a hand each from Mack and Sid as they reach up to me .... walking to the car ... making sure everyone is belted in .... everyone waving back to you .... kids already jabbering away as we head out of the parking lot .....

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

Laurel sat quietly in the park for thirty minutes before she took several deep breaths to gather herself and then stood. Deciding a walk was just what she needed to clear her head, Laurel headed out of the park and began the three and a half block journey home. Halfway there, her cell phone rang in her pocket.

Sniffling, she answered the phone to a number she didn’t recognize.

“Hello?”

“Uh, Laurel. This is Alan.” Laurel heard him laugh nervously.

“What’s wrong? What happened?” Laurel’s heart stopped mid-beat.

“Nothing. Nothing. Everything is okay. The girls just missed you.” Alan explained quickly. “I’d swear if I didn’t know better I would say you were their security blanket. They just couldn’t seem to have any fun without looking over their shoulders wondering where you were. So I thought I’d call and at least let them talk to you.”

“How’d you get my number?” Laurel was extremely curious because she knew she hadn’t given it to him.

“Sid gave it to me. In fact demanded that I call, so here she is.”

“Hi, Aunt Lo Lo. Are you okayyyy?” Sidney asked in her quiet but assertive way. This little girl pulled no punches. Sidney was great with numbers in general and Laurel was just amazed at how she’d remembered her cell phone number.

Laurel smiled in answer to Sidney’s question. “Of Course I’m okay honey.”

“Then you’re not gonna die before you come home?” Sidney’s voice seemed to rise an octave as if she might cry if she didn’t hear the right answer.

“Oh honey, I’m gonna try my very hardest not to, okay?” Laurel stopped in the middle of the sidewalk and held the phone with both hands. It was no longer fair to make absolute promises to these girls but she had to give them some assurance. “I’m on my way right now.”

“Okay,” She squeaked and then to someone in the background she yelled, “It’s my turn!”

There was a long silent moment and then Alan was back on the phone.

“They’re both okay.” He assured her without her having to ask. “We’ll be waiting out back for you.”

 

[rnld1944]

After the quick drive home, Alex showed the girls where the trampoline was .... and the rest of the playset in the back yard. I grabbed a seat on the patio under the umbrella to keep an eye on them. Not quite sure what to do with all this ... just stopped at the park for Alex to play ... running into Laurel with her two nieces .... bringing them back to my house to play with Alex. I can only try to imagine what Laurel is going thru right now .... losing her sister in an accident and assuming the responsibility for Mackenzie and Sidney ... really changed her life.

About that time, Sidney comes running up ... "Mr. Alan, where is Aunt Lo Lo .... I thought she would be here by now?"

"Let's give her a few more minutes, Sid ... remember she had to walk from the park ... she'll be her soon."

Starting to walk away, Sid turns back, "I know her cell phone number, we HAVE to call her, right now!"

Knowing how unsettled the girls must be, I say "Ok" and pick up the phone and dial Laruel's cell phone. Quickly assuring her that nothing is wrong, I put Sid on the phone to talk to you for a few minutes .... doesn't take long ... just needs to hear your voice.

To Laurel, "We'll be waiting out back for you," and hanging up the phone. I don't want to intrude on Laurel ... but maybe a little "diversion" will be good. Walking out toward the kids still playing together, "I'm going the house for a few minutes and stir up some lemonade .... you guys keep playing together here .... Aunt Laurel should be here in just a few minutes."

Checking the refrigerator in the house, I see that we can probably throw a few burgers and hotdogs on the grill tonight ... one less thing for Laurel to worry about. Walking back outside with the lemonade and glasses just as you walk through the gate into the back yard. Damn, I can see how rough this has been for you ... your eyes are dry right now, but the red is still pretty visible. As the girls come running up to you and each one grabbing a leg, I start pouring glasses of lemonade and setting them on the table.

"I'm going to start the grill in a few minutes. How about if you and the girls stay for some burgers and hotdogs ... you have to eat anyway .... it might as well be here with someone else doing the cooking."

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

“See I told you I’d be back.” Laurel hugged the girls simultaneously and then looked up at Alan’s offer. “Thank you but you don’t have to do that.”

“It’s no problem really. Besides, I’ve already promised Mack and Sid.”

“Yea, Aunt Lo Lo. We’re hungry.” Both girls said in unison once again confirming the myths about twins thinking and speaking at the same time.

“Well if you’re sure.” Laurel said hesitantly.

In answer, Alan pulled out a chair from the deck patio furniture for her to sit in. And as she sat the girls resumed their play with Alex. Laurel sat in the silence for a while listening to the sizzling of the food on the grill and the laughter of the children. After a few moments the silence became unbearable for her and she attempted conversation.

“So when will your wife be home?”

“Wife?” Alan turned toward her and asked again. “Wife?”

“Yea, you know, the bouncy brunette that I sometimes see with your son. Red S.U.V. Likes her cell phone.”

Alan tossed her a look over his shoulder that showed he was clearly displeased. “Oh you mean the Ex-wife.”

“Oh.” Laurel felt like an idiot and vowed not to open her mouth again unless spoken to. She was not on top of her mental game and she did not want to make another blunder like that again anytime soon.

“She is way out of the picture and if I never see her again it would be too soon.”

“Wow. Can we smell the bitterness?” The comment flew out before she could stop it.

Alan turned quickly and then promptly burst into laughter. Startled she just watched him.

“You’re right. You’re right. I am a little bitter. But I’m working on it for Alex’s sake. Mommies and Daddies have to play nice right?”

Laurel nodded in agreement and decided in that moment she really liked this man.

It wasn’t long before dinner was ready and the kids ate is if it were their last meals despite their parents pleas for them to slow down and soon they were back to playing in the evening sunset.

“So, why do the girls call you Aunt Lo Lo?” Alan asked as he began stacking dishes to carry into the house. “If you don’t mind me asking.”

Laurel smiled contentedly at the memory. “When they were smaller they couldn’t say my whole name and Mack would get stuck at the beginning like a skipping record. So the name just stuck.”

“Cute.” Alan commented.

“Daddy,” Alex sidled up to his father rubbing his eyes with two tiny fists. “I’m sleepy.”

“Now that’s a first!” Alan laughed out loud as he lifted his on into his arms. “Those two feisty little minxes wore you out didn’t they?”

Alan winked at Laurel to let her know it was a joke.

“I guess we should be going.” Laurel called to the girls and took each of them in hand and headed toward the gate.

“Wait we’ll walk you home.” Alan walked ahead and opened the gate for them with one hand. He bestowed a special smile on Laurel that made her stomach flip. Amazingly enough it made her smile back.

“Thank you Alan, for everything.”

 

[rnld1944]

Firing up the grill and getting the burgers and hot dogs started ... wanting this to be as comfortable as possible for you ..... nothing fancy when this man cooks out ... just the basics ... burgers, hot dogs, buns, chips, and lemonade ....

Didn't take much for the girls to talk you into staying ... I think you were a little relieved at not having to take them home and do the cooking yourself. Watching out of the corner of my eye as you sit back in the chair on my deck, I begin realize just how attractive you are .. how come I never noticed before?

Guess there is no reason for you to know I'm divorced ... until you ask about my wife ... "So when will your wife be home?" Damn, almost lost my "cool" when that came up ... almost snapping at you when I say "ex-wife!"

"Wow! Can we smell the bitterness?" I hear coming from you. Looking in your direction, realizing how my answer must have sounded, all I can do is laugh. Trying to break the temporary "tension" ... "I'm working on it ... mommies and daddies have to play nice..."

Well, at least you know my situation now .... calling the kids to wash their hands ..... watching them eat as if they had not seen any food all day. Trying to slow them down is impossible and they soon hurry back to playing in the backyard. We sit in our chairs, mostly watching the kids play .. asking why the girls call you "Aunt Lo Lo", ....

As the evening sun begins to fade, Alex actually comes up and says he is tired .... thought I would never see that day .... watching as the girls run up to you and you tell them it's time to be going home ....

"We'll walk you home" .... opening the gate as you, Sid and Mack head next door .. finally a smile breaks through your face ... feel like I should be doing more for you (I want to hold you but, probably not the time for that .... yet) ...

"Good night .... looks like everyone need a good night's sleep."

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

Laurel guided the girls to her home and began the nightly routine of baths and bedtime stories that they’d begun recently. After the girls were down for the night, Laurel took her shower, slid into a pale lavender silky ankle length night-gown poured herself a glass of wine and decided on impulse to go out and sit on the back porch swing.

She rested her head against the padded headrest and let the night breeze caress her skin. She’d nearly drifted off when she heard the squeak of the back gate. Her eyes fluttered open and there stood Alan on the other side of the porch rail, his arms crossed on the top rung and foot lazily hooked in the bottom rung.

He smiled when her eyes settled on him. “Saw you come out and thought I’d come say hi.”

 

[rnld1944]

"Saw you come out and thought I'd come say hi," ... (immediately having second thoughts about the intrusion) .... "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you ..... Alex was asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow .... and I decided to enjoy the cool evening."

Turning toward my house ... "Enjoy the peace and quiet ... you probably don't get too much of that these days with twins as active as Mack and Sid aound .... I'm sure the kids will want to play again tomorrow .... good night."

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

Alan turned to go back to his house and Laurel couldn’t let him.

“No wait.” She sat forward and the delicate spaghetti strap on her right shoulder slid down onto her arm. “Please stay awhile.
You don’t have to talk or anything. But please don’t ….go.”

Laurel’s voice trailed off. She felt so goddamned alone in this world and here was this one man who seemed interested in her if only out of pity and she couldn’t refuse his company. Pity or otherwise, she’d take it. She needed to know that there was at least one other person in the world who might give a shit if she cried.

Just the thought set the tears to rolling. Two fat droplets materialized on her lashes and slid down her cheeks again without warning. She swiped angrily at them and wondered if she would ever stop being ambushed by these emotions she couldn’t seem to control.

 

[rnld1944]

Alan Baxter

Hoping you would stop me when I turned back toward my house, but not really expecting it ... "No, wait .... please stay awhile .. you don't have to talk or anything .. but please don't go."

Turning and walking toward your back porch where you are sitting on the swing .... almost gasping when I see you sitting there in your night gown .... one strap falling over your shoulder ... damn, why is it that women's shoulders can be so sexy and inviting.

As I step onto the porch, I hear you say ... "The wine is in the fridge and there's another glass on the table ...." Seeing the smears on your cheeks from the wiped away tears, I take a deep breath, and walk into your house and quietly pour myself a glass of wine and head back to the porch.

Sitting beside you .... not too close, but then again, this is a pretty small porch swing .... not knowing what to say. wanting to reach out for you, but not sure how I might react holding someone I just met today who is sitting here in her silky night gown. But it's obvious (at least I think so) that you just need someone right now to lean on ....

Taking a sip of wine, setting my glass down on the small table .... I can see your hands trembling as you attempt to hold your glass steady ... reaching over and taking your glass and setting it on the table ... I reach toward you and as soon as my hand touches your shoulder, the tears cascade down your face and your bury your head in my shoulder, sobbing almost out of control .... your whole body shaking .....

I feel your arm reach out and grab my neck, holding on like you're afraid I might leave you , too ... slowly the sobbing begins to ease ... your breathing begins to slow down .... and I suddenly realize, I'm sitting here holding this beautiful young woman, her soft breasts pressed against me ... not even thinking, my hand starts to run back through your hair ....

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

“Shhhh, it’s okay.” Alan ran his hand through Laurel’s hair over and over until her breathing had quieted and she was calm again.

After a few moments she lifted her head from where it had been buried in the crook of his neck and looked at him. She found that her lips were inches from his.

“I’m sorry,” She said lifting herself a little more by placing one slim palm on his chest. “I just…”

“You just needed a friend.” His voice was low and soothing and he watched her with unwavering confidence.

He was right. She’d just moved to a new state, started a new job and was still dealing with the newness of it all. She was still trying to adjust to not knowing anyone and not knowing where everything was and for that matter, who she was. And in a split second, she was now somebody’s mother. Two some bodies mother. Her sister had laid it out in black and white that she was in no uncertain terms to adopt these two and be their mother. Not just their aunt. And Laurel knew she would not fail her sister in this her last wish.

She resolved that she would just be a mother of two who didn’t know a thing about a thing and she would go from there.

Laurel took a deep breath and smiled. “Are you trying to be that friend?”

“I think that is fairly obvious.” He said playfully.

She frowned slightly. “I think nothing is obvious these days.”

“Alright then,” His hand paused on the nape of her neck and stayed there. “I definitely want to be your friend.”

“Good.” She stated openly. “Cause I need a friend.”

“I know you do.” Encouraged, Alan placed a light kiss on her forehead.

“Mmmmmmm.” She murmured and promptly snuggled into his arms.

They rocked for a while in silence until there came a light tapping from behind them. There stood Mack, hair tousled holding a teddy bear by one arm with her hand up to the glass.

Laurel untangled herself from Alan’s arms and ran to the sliding glass door.

“What’s wrong honey?” Laurel knelt down in front of her niece.

On the end of a yawn she answered. “Sid is crying in her sleep, Aunt Lo Lo. I tried to give her teddy but it didn’t work.”

“Ok honey.” Laurel scooped the little girl into her arms and looked back at Alan who was already standing.

“I guess I’d better…” He started his goodbye but was interrupted by her quickly sliding her hand into his and dragging him along with her into the house. Laurel couldn’t let him go just yet. Soon, but not just yet.



One thing she had learned was the lay out of the house. She confidently led Alan back to the girl’s room and sure enough Sidney seemed to be whimpering in her sleep. Laurel handed Mackenzie off to Alan and settled herself gingerly on the bed next to Sid.

“Hi, Mr. Alan.” Laurel heard Mackenzie yawn sleepily.

“Hello sweetheart.” He whispered back to her and laid her down in the midst of the already rumpled covers on her bed, tucked her in and without blinking leaned down and kissed the top of her curly blonde head.

Laurel watched the exchange in silence. When rubbing Sidney’s back didn’t soothe her, Laurel began to sing an old Celtic lullaby that her mother had sung to her when she was a child. She rocked in tune with the song and at one moment glanced up to find Alan watching her intently, almost entranced

 

[rnld1944]

Alan Baxter

Feeling you begin to relax as I stroke your hair gently .... as you look up at me, and yes our lips are just inches apart, and I almost move toward you, but stop before getting any closer .... slow down, I tell myself .. "You just needed a friend" I hear myself say as you put your hand on my chest ...

"Cause I want to be your friend" and kissing you lightly on the forehead as you snuggle in and let me wrap my arm around you. Hearing some tapping on the sliding glass door, you look up and see Mack standing there with her teddy bear, waiting to tell you that Sidney is crying in her sleep ... as you scoop up Mack go to Sidney, I start to leave, but before I can get the words out of my mouth, you grab my hand and drag me behind you into the house.

Following you to the girls' bedroom, you hand Mackenzie to me and sit down on Sidney's bed to try to comfort her. Carrying Mack to her bed, I help her get back under the covers and, without even thinking, lean over and kiss her on the head, "Goodnight, sweetheart ... Alex wants you guys to come over and play again tomorrow."

Standing up, I realize that you have been watching the whole time as I put Mackenzie to bed .... then turning back to Sidney, you begin singing an old song .... something I don't recognize ... but I can see Sid start to relax at the sound of your voice .... stepping back to the door and waiting for you ... not realizing how focused I am on you and the way you are with Sidney right now ... you will be a good mother .....

Mack has already fallen back to sleep ... and Sid's breathing calms as she begins to settle into a deep sleep also ....you stand and walk toward me, your eyes looking straight into mine ... without even thinking, I open my arms and you walk right to me, leaning against me for support ... your arms clinging to my neck, your head resting against my chest .. I know my heart is pounding .....

Standing there for a couple of minutes, you look up at me ..."Thanks again, Alan, for everything today .." I sense your face moving toward mine ... this time I don't stop .... I lean closer and kiss you softly on the lips ....

Think we are both a little surprised .... taking you by the hand, we walk back toward the porch .... "I really do need to get home .... I'm sure the kids will want to play again tomorrow ... Alex is going be be here for three more days ....."

"Laurel, I was watching you with Mack and Sid today and tonight; you're going to be a really great Mom for them ...."

Wrapping my arms around you, pulling you close ... pressing my lips to yours with a little more intensity .... feeling you respond to my kiss by tightening your grip on my neck ....

As we break our kiss .... I can feel the intensity as our eyes meet ... even in the dark family room .... "Good night, Laurel ...."

"Alex is usually up pretty early, watching cartoons and playing outside, so whenever girls are ready ... send them over ...."

Squeezing your hand one more time ... kissing you lightly on the forehead ... turning and walking back toward my house ... my mind already spinning with what this day has brought into my life.

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

Laurel could not help the warm fuzzies that flowed through her as she watched Alan walk away. She sighed deeply and then giggled like a schoolgirl. Today had been a beautiful day, despite it all.

It was early the next morning when Laurel was awakened by the distinct feeling she was being watched. She opened one sleepy eye and there stood the twins, each with their elbows up on the side of the bed their tiny fists underneath their chins, their heads tilted in unison to one side.

“Hi Aunt Lo Lo.” Sid greeted her aunt.
“Hi Aunt Lo Lo.” Mack chimed in almost immediately.

Groggily Laurel shimmied her way up until she was resting on one elbow and smiled. “Hi baby, hi sweetie.”

“We tried to make breakfast for you.” Mack informed her.

“But she spilled the milk.” Sid countered.

“She knocked over the bowl!” Mack insisted vehemently.

“Ok girls. It’s alright. Making breakfast was a very nice thing to do. Thank you for trying. Now let’s go see what we can do with what’s left.”

“Oh, that’s okay. Mr. Alan already brought us breakfast. He said for us to be quiet til you waked up on your own.”

That woke her up. Laurel sat straight up in bed and threw off the covers. “Alan was here?!”

“Mr. Alan said if we were good…” Sid began and then both girls finished, “We could get happy meals for lunch!!”

Laurel smiled at that. Nothing like a happy meal bribe to get what you needed accomplished. “And I’m sure you’ve been very good haven’t you?”

Mack turned her head toward her sister to confirm. “We didn’t wake you up?” It was more a question than a statement and it melted her heart. She leaned down and scooped both girls into bed with her and began a tickle match in which the shrill peals of laughter she was certain could be heard through out the Milky Way.

Eventually, Shaun got up and got dressed in a pair of petite khaki shorts, a simple white tank top and a pair of white Nike tennis shoes.

When she walked out into the kitchen she found the girls already dressed and amazingly they hadn’t done so badly. They had on pink shorts, with the matching white t-shirts with pink trim and the word “Cute” across the chest in pink glitter.

They were sprawled out across the floor on their tummies watching cartoons. Laurel was headed toward the refrigerator for some juice when she spotted the platter of breakfast food on the counter. There were fresh daisies in a vase next to it along with a card.

“Good mornin’ Sunshine. Enjoy!” Was all it said but it was all it needed to say.
Laurel looked out the window in the direction of Alan’s home and smiled.

“Hey girls!” Laurel called to the twins. “Get your shoes on.”

“Where we goin?” They asked excitedly.

“To see Mr. Alan.” She grinned.

 

[rnld1944]

Alan Baxter

After walking back home from Laurel's last night ... her girls both asleep ... the goodnight kiss in the family room ... think I felt you press your soft body against me a little bit as we kissed .....

Looked in on Alex ... he was sound asleep .... quickly undressed and crawled into bed myself ... not setting the alarm .... Alex is always up early when he is here ... so I'm sure I'll hear cartoons on the TV in the morning .. then drifted off to sleep with pictures of a beautiful neighbor playing again and again in my mind ...

Yep ... Alex is up ... I hear the TV ... staggering out to say good morning and then hitting the shower .... damn, I slept good last night .... ahhh, the shower feels good ... gets me awake ... standing in the family room ... Alex engrossed in cartoons, my eyes drift over to your house .... looks like I see a couple of blond heads moving around your family room ...

Turning to Alex ... "Hey, buddy ... donut's for breakfast ... I'll run out and pick up some while you watch TV." Grabbing my keys, I drive quickly to the little shop in the strip mall ... pick out a dozen as well as a bunch of donut holes... run into the corner flower shop already open and find some daisies ....

Hurrying back home .... giving Alex his choice, I fix up a plate ... grab the vase and walk over to Laurel's.... Sid and Mack see me coming and open the sliding glass door .. "Shhh, Aunt Lo Lo's still asleep..." Setting the donuts and flowers down on the table with a card ..."Ok, girls ... if you're real quiet until Aunt Lo Lo wakes up, I'll take us all out for a happy meal for lunch ... OK?" Big smiles and agreement from both ...

Sitting in my family room, coffee cup in hand, reading the sports section .... I suddenly see three beautiful your ladies walking across my back yard ... damn .... something about a woman in shorts and a white tank top that get my attention ...

"Hey, Alex, we've got company " ... stepping on the patio .... the girls drop your hands and come running to me ... "Is Alex up yet?" they say in unison .. as I point to the family room, they go running in ... "Hi, ALex ... Hi, Alex ..."

Just as they enter the house you come walking up to me ... damn, that smile ... reaching up you kiss me lightly on the cheek ... "Thanks for the flowers ... that was really special ...and I hear you bribed Sid and Mack with a happy meal promise if they let me sleep a little longer ...." Wrapping my arm around your shoulder with a gentle squeeze ....you respond by snuggling a little closer as we walk in the house .... "Coffee? Then we can talk about what we're going to do with these three for the day."

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

“Coffee? No, thank you. Got any cocoa?”

“Cocoa it is.” Alan said over his shoulder as he immediately set to preparing the hot water required for it.

“My dad says we’re goin to the ferris wheel!” Laurel heard Alex announce from the living room.
“Na-Uh,” Mackenzie replied in astonishment. “Aunt Lo Lo? Do we get to go to the ferris wheel too?!”

Laurel cringed at how Mackenzie yelled from the other room. The kid had an old English fishwife’s set of lungs on her. That particular habit was one they were gonna have to work on.

“So you guys are going to the county fair I take it?” Laurel sighed tracing the grain of the wood in the table with one delicately cropped and painted nail. She couldn’t believe how sad she felt. For some reason she’d thought she would get to spend the day with them but now Alan and his son were going to the fair and she would have to come up with some way to entertain the girls. Things seemed so much easier when Alan was involved.

“We, as in us, as in we’re all going,” Alan gently chucked her under the chin with his forefinger. “Cheer up, I wouldn’t dare leave the girls out.”

“Why not?” The words had slipped passed her lips before she had had a chance to filter them. But the fact was she wanted to know. This man knew them all of two days and now he was including them in family outings, daytrips. It didn’t make sense. She wondered if she would be doing the same thing if the roles were reversed. “You don’t owe us anything.”

Alan slid the mug of hot chocolate toward her and they locked eyes. “I know I don’t. Luckily, I’m a big boy and I can do what I want.”

“I’m a big boy too!” Alex had tiptoed into the kitchen and pounced on his father’s leg with that declaration.

“But I can still take you!” Alan roared lifting his son by the waist and flipping him upside down unti Alex was breathless with laughter. Setting him back down Alan was immediately bombarded with requests for the same of the twins.

“Me too! Me too!”

Graciously, Alan picked up each of the girls in turn and hung them until they too were caught up in a fit of giggles.
Laurel closed her eyes and smiled feeling the warmth of the mug between her hands but also feeling warmth spreading through her chest in her heart region. This man was something real.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Laurel heard Alan whisper close to her ear.

At that her smile broadened. “This isn’t discount day! My thoughts are gonna cost you more than that!”

 

[rnld1944]

"Hmmmm ... let's see ... a day at the fair ... and dinner at a really good restaurant that Alex and I both like .... now do I get to know what is going thru that pretty head?" Not waiting for an answer ... again our eyes meet for an instant ... something is going on here ... god, those eyes ....

Turning toward the family room, "Alex, you need to go change into the clothes you are wearing to the fair today." As quickly as his feet start toward his room, two bouncing blondes appear at the kitchen table ... "Aunt Lo Lo, can we go to the fair, too ... pleaseeeeeeeee?"

Before you can answer, "Sure, you can go to the fair, too .... do you think Aunt Laurel would like to come with us?" Looking toward you to watch your response to my answer to the girls ... scrunching up your nose and making a face ... "Yes, Aunt Laurel would like to come to", hiding your mouth behind your hand and sticking your tongue out at me .....

"Well, as soon as Alex is changed, we can go ...."

"I've got to run back to my house and get my purse and lock the back door ..."

"OK, we'll meet you out front as soon as Alex is ready."

Letting you out the back door .... watching you hurry across my back yard .... (standing here a little longer than necessary, but what the hell, not too often do I get to watch a cute butt like that walk across my back yard).

Heading out to the SUV with Alex and the girls ... getting everyone belted in just as you appear around the corner and hop in the front set ... jumping in myself .... key in the ignition ... reaching over and resting hand on yours, on your thigh .... "looks like a beautiful day ...." leaning toward you slightly, ... but, thinking better of it ... kids in the back seat and all ...

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

Laurel sensed his hesitation and immediately leaned across the console in between them, placed her hand on his cheek and kissed him full on the mouth.

“Oooooooooooooooh!” The girls coo’d in unison and burst into a fit of giggles.

“Dad!!” Alex cried out indignantly. “You can’t just go around kissin’ girls!”

“Sure you can.” Alan grinned meaningfully at Laurel, obviously delighted at her making the first move. It was a light, chaste kiss but it was a kiss just the same.

Laurel returned the smile and covered his hand with hers and that’s how they drove all the way to the fair. When they arrived at the fair grounds, Alan put the car into park and turned to Laurel again. That same knowing smile appeared once again and Laurel laughed knowing what was coming. He reached across with both hands grabbed her face and planted another one on her.

“Aunt Lo Lo and Alan sittin’ in a tree,” Mack and Sid chanted. “K-I-S-S-I-N-G!”

“Ewwwwwwww.” Alex moaned unsnapping his seatbelt and crawling out of his car seat. He pushed his way in between Laurel and Alan and said,” I’m ready to go Dad.”

“Okay buddy.” Alan lifted Alex onto his lap but gave one last meaningful squeeze to Laurel’s hand before sliding out of the driver’s side door.

 

[rnld1944]

Alan Baxter

Sliding out of the SUV, Alex is ready to go .... "Slow down a bit there, Alex .... wait for Mack and Sid .... I'm sure they are in as much of a hurry as you are." Watching the three kids heading toward the entrance, grab you by the hand and try to keep up with them. Wandering around from ride to ride, standing and waiting for the ride to end .... seems like all of the rides are too short ... we stand there togther ... hand in hand .... talking, mostly about the kids .... living next door and not meeting until yesterday at the park ... and then three kids bounce up to us .... "What's next?" So off we go to the next ride and three more minutes to stand together, hand in hand ...

After a stop at the snack bar for a quick lunch ... more rides and games in the afternoon ... looks like the kids are finally starting to get a little tired .. "OK, guys .... here's the plan ... let's all go home and get cleaned up a bit from all this dust. Alex and I know really neat place where we can go out for dinner tonight."

Heading home, three kids sound asleep in the seat behind us, holding your hand as we drive ... knowing smiles back and forth ... eyes connecting at every stop light ..

Pulling into your driveway ... kids still sound asleep behind us .... guess we really did wear them out ... shutting off the engine ... leaning toward you .... your head leaning toward me ... pressing my lips to yours ... my hand wrapping around your shoulder ... this kiss suddenly has a little more intensity ... feeling the warmth and moistness of your lips ...

Breaking the kiss .... taking a deep breath .... seeing the look in your eyes .....

"Well ..... guess we better get these kids in the house ....."

Walking around and opening you door .... light kiss as I help you down ... feeling you lean into my body just a bit with the kiss ....kids starting to stir in the back seat

"We'll be back in about an hour to go eat...."

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

Laurel carried one twin in her arms and walked the other into the house. By the time she’d unlocked the door they were both wide-awake.

“Where we goin?” Mackenzie asked.

“We’re gonna wash up before dinner.” Laurel replied flipping on the lights as she walked through the house.

“Can I take a bath?” Sidney asked. “I feel icky.”

“Honey I don’t think we have time for, OH MY GOD!” Laurel had just flipped on the switch for the living room and found a man sitting on her couch.

He was filthy with smudges of god knows what all over what she could see of his face and hands. His jeans were tattered and full of holes, one in particular in an indecent region below his belt. His shirt and coat stuck together soiled by sweat stains and all manner of grime. He was covered in days if not weeks worth of dirt.

Protectively she gathered the girls to her and demanded of him. “Who are you! And what are you doing in my house!?”

“Aww now,” the man slurred menacingly. “You ain’t got to be so mean. I’m just restin’ my weary feet.”

“Get out of my house!” Laurel ordered him as she backed toward the door. Her voice was strong but she was quaking inside. It was one thing for it to be her, but her girls were in danger too.

“Why, No Ma’am.” His reply was simple and absolute as he levered himself up off the couch and advanced on them.

Mack wiggled her way out of her aunt’s embrace and ran. The man switched course as if to go after her and Laurel ran to intercept him.

“You leave her alone goddamnit!” She shoved him in the chest hard and his reply was a hard backhand across her face that sent her sprawling across the living room floor.

“Run Sidney! Run!!” Laurel saw Sidney freeze in the door way as the man renewed his assault on her.

The little girl shook her head ‘no’ but when Laurel screamed at her again Sidney took off.

Laurel felt the weight of the man drop down on her as he straddled her hips and she began punching at his upper body connecting several very solid punches, which only seemed to make him angrier. It was obvious he was drunk or high on something and she was beginning to think she might not have a chance against him.

He swung his fist at her face and momentarily knocked her unconscious as his fist connected with her temple. When she came to, he had jerked her tank top up above her breasts and was about to rid her of her undergarments.

“Alan!!! Alaannnnnn!” The cry tore from her lips in a sort of prayer. “Oh God help me!”
Laurel fought with all her might with the single desperate hope that at least one of the girls had thought to go to him for help.

 

[rnld1944]

Alan Baxter

Alex stumbles out of the SUV and we start walking toward our house, "We're going to get cleaned up and then come back and take Laurel and the girls out to dinner at our favorite restaurant." At that comment, Alex is off and running toward the house ...

Just as I step up to unlock the door, "ALAN ... ALAN ... ALAN !!!" Turning I see one the girls, Sidney, I think, running toward my house screaming my name .... running to her ... "What's wrong, honey?"

"T ..t .. there's a ..man ... in our house hitting Aunt Lo Lo .... "

Turning to Alex, "Call the police ... dial 911 and stay here"

"Stay with Alex, Sid .. go in the house ... now!!"

Sprinting toward you house .... Mack is standing in the door .. pointing to the living room ... "Go to my house, Mack ... right now!"

Running into the house, I see a "man" sitting on top of you .. your tank top on the floor, his hand trying to rip your bra off ...

Running toward him, knocking him off of you ... his head hitting the floor and knocking him out ... just as we hear the siren of a police car pulling up

 

[Flurtayshus]

Laurel Hawthorne

Laurel turned over onto her hands and knees and began dry heaving. The awful smell of him clung inside her nostrils and she felt she could barely breathe.

She watched as Alan walked over to the man and laid two fingers against his throat.

“What are you doing?” She gasped.

“Making sure he’s still alive so he can go straight to jail.” Alan replied coldly. “He’s going to pay for this.”

All of the adrenaline suddenly left her and with her arms weak she collapsed down to the floor in a child like position; her head on her hands, her knees tucked under her.

Alan wiped his hand on his jeans before placing it on her back to rub her in light, soothing circles. “It’s okay now.”

Just then the police came around the corner with shouts of direction from the kids whom had been ordered to stay outside.

“Ms. Hawthorne?” One officer called out peeking quickly around the corner of the door his weapon drawn.

“Sir put your hands up and back away slowly.” The older officer ordered Alan when he spotted him next to Laurel.

“It’s not me.” Alan stated calmly but got up and backed away anyway. “It’s him over there.”

Only one officer looked where Alan indicated. The other kept both his eyes and his gun trained on him.

“Ms. Hawthorne?” The younger officer called again and Laurel turned her head toward him, silent tears streaking her cheeks. “Are you alright?”

She nodded. “I think so.”

The younger officer introduced himself. “Ma’am I’m Officer London and that’s Officer Carlo.”

“We received a 911 call that a female subject was being assaulted by a stranger. Is that true?”

Laurel sat up with the officer’s help and looked around for Alan. When she spotted him she reached up for him as Sid and Mack had done to her many times before when they’d wanted to be picked up. He moved immediately to her and helped her to her feet enclosing her in his arms.

Apparently the wait had been too long because the children came charging into the house.

“Cool!” Alex exclaimed when he saw Officer Carlo handcuffing the semi-unconscious intruder.

“It’s not cool. He hurt my Aunt Lo Lo.” Sidney cried swatting him on the arm and then her little face crumpled in tears.

“Come here Sidney.” Alan ordered and drew the little girl to his side when Laurel still hadn’t let go of him.

Laurel felt so good and so safe in his arms that she couldn’t let go just yet.

“Laurel honey you have to give them a statement.” Alan murmured rhythmically rubbing her lower back.

 

[rnld1944]

Alan Baxter

Bending over and picking up your tank top .... handing it to you ... taking the girls by the hand ... "Alex, go on out to the family room; come on girls, we'll wait in the other room for Aunt Lo Lo."

As one officer takes the intruder to the squad car, the older officer turns as you pull your tank top back on ...then says, "Let's make this as quick as we can, Ms. Hawthorne, but I do need a statement from you as to what happened."

After taking your statement, the officer just asks me to confirm the time leading up to when we got home ... and what I knew, which was very little ....

Telling the kids to wait in the family room until I tell them they can come out, I walk into the living room and wrap my arms around you .... feeling you slump against me and begin crying softly ....

"It's ok ... I'm here for you ...." I feel your head nod against my chest ... the girls, followed by Alex, come bursting into the room and run to us ... needing our reassurance that everything is going to be ok ....

Looking back at you, "Laurel, honey ... we still need to eat, so Alex and I will wait in the family room while you and the girls get changed and ready to go ... Alex, why don't you run home and change into a clean shirt and some clean shorts ... "

Still not sure, you finally agree ... "Yes, we do need to eat .... and I don't want to be alone .. Mack, Sid .. run back to your room .. I'll be right there and we'll get cleaned up and changed ..."

"Laurel, if you would feel more secure, we do have an extra bedroom that you and the girls can sleep in tonight ... think about it, you can let me know after dinner what you want to do ... I just want you and the girls to be safe."