1,2,3 Strikes You're Out!

Chapter 5

Keely cuddled up next to Blaze, tugging the afghan she'd swiped for them closer to herself. Her eyes drifted shut with the peace and security she felt surrounded by her loved ones and enclosed in Blaze's arms. She wasn't even sure what the movie was currently as she slowly lifted one lid to peer at the screen. It had just turned black and credits were scrolling up signifying the end of the movie.

"Alright all of you lazy bums, out." commanded Jazzelle, retrieving the remote and turning off the television.

Keely winced as she turned on the light, "No, no turn it back off." she whimpered.

"Uh-uh, I have to be up tomorrow morning, you all get to sleep-at your own home, I might add!"

"Right away,ma'am." quipped Altan, standing to his feet and hoisting Lidia up beside him.

Alex didn't waste time setting an already sleeping Charity on her feet, he pulled her closer to him and stood. "See you all on Saturday." he hissed as he walked out the door Jazzi opened for him.

Blaze eased her away from him, "Come on, I'll take you home." he growled low in her ear.

She giggled as his breath tickled her ear, and his voice sent every nerve on edge. "Alright. Bye, guys." she waved and sluggishly followed Blaze toward the door.

"I saw all of that, keep it up girl. This time is the real deal." hissed Jazzi in her ear on the way out.

Nodding at her friend, she followed as Blaze tugged her along beside him.

"That was fun." he said as he helped her into the truck.

Again she nodded, "It really was, I enjoyed it. Thanks for coming, Blaze."

"Anytime, Keely, and I mean that." was his reply. All over again she felt herself falling for him, this time she was in for it. Most definitely.

--

Blaze pulled into a parking spot in front of Keely's house and turned to watch her sleep. She'd fallen asleep on the way back to her house and she looked so peaceful he didn't want to wake her. Her long hair had fallen across her face, covering delicate features he longed to touch. Sighing with desperation, he reached out and swept the hair from her face, taking in each soft curve of her face and the swoop of her lashes. "You're beautiful." he whispered in the silence of the truck.

The moon cast a silvery shadow into the truck allowing just enough light to see her soft, kissable lips puckered in sleep. He kept his restraint and shook her softly, "Keely?"

A soft moan was her sleepy reply, before she turned toward him.

"Keely, you're home." he whispered, trying again.

"Can't I just stay here with you?" she asked, eyes fluttering open.

"No, honey, I doubt your back would appreciate that in the morning. Come on, I'll bring you inside." jumping from the truck, he walked around the front of it and opened her door. Reaching across the seat, he unbuckled the seat belt and took her hand. "It's not so far, hon, really."

She smiled half-heartedly, "Thanks for walking me in." Beginning to fumble with her keys, she turned toward the door.

"Keely?"

"Hum?" she turned, her left hand still in his as her sudden movement jingled the keys in the other hand.

Taking advantage of the fact that his fingers were still intertwined with hers, he tugged her back into his arms and kissed her thoroughly. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Blaze." flustered and sleepy, Keely made her way inside closing the door in his face.

All of a sudden, the warm air was chilled, he didn't like being without her. Man did he have it bad.

--

Bethanie giggled in glee as she slipped her cowboy hat on her head with a thump. She was going to a good old-fashioned rodeo, looking incredible-if she did say so herself. Checking one last time in the mirror, she nodded. This day was going to be good, she could feel it. Walking out her apartment door, she smiled at the outside noises. She was a country girl living in the city, but she was enjoying being with her friends.

The crisp air she breathed in only served to make her step lighter, as she climbed into her big chevy truck. Soon she was ready to see some good looking cowboys, and kick back with her cowboy friends. Nothing was better than some country music, men in tight jeans, and cowboy hats to boot.

"Hey girl!" called one of her friends, Sarah, who wore a hat with rhinestones around the brim.

"Howdy!" she replied, taking her seat between Sarah and Dana. "How're things?"

"Goin' well, how's things with you?" asked Dana.

Just as she was about to reply, a cowboy entering the rodeo ring caught her eye. He was taller than she'd ever seen a person before, what must've been six foot six inches. Long legs encased in denim, drew her attention from his boots all the way up to his muscular upper body.

"Wooooo-eeee" she called out, taking her hat off to fan herself with.

"What? What?" her jittery friends called taking her by the arms, and jumping up and down excitedly. They knew the signs of new coming hotties.

"New guy at twelve o'clock." she hissed, pointing toward the man who climbed onto the horse with little effort and rode like a pro.

"That's no new guy, that's T.C. James. He's been around for years, you've never heard of him?"Sarah jolted her with an elbow. "Oooh I'll have to introduce you later, girl!"

"Oh you sure will!" came her reply.

--

Jazzelle laughed behind the truck as she lowered her binoculars and flashed Sarah and Dana a thumbs up. Things were working just great.

"1,2,3 Strikes You're Out."

Chapter 4

Keely sat staring into Blaze's eyes long after she'd finished her lunch, the spring breeze that filtered through the trees and moved her hair only heightened her senses. He still liked her. That was enough to keep her floating on air all day long. Speaking of all day, her heart raced as she broke eye contact and looked down at her watch. It was long past time for her to get back to her office. "I should go." she mumbled, completely regretting her words now that she made eye contact once more.

"I'm sorry, I must've kept you pretty late..."his voice trailed off as he began cleaning up some of the dishes from the table and stuffing them into the basket once more.

"Don't apologize, Blaze, I'm just as much at fault." she replied, reaching to slow his hand as he kept shoving things into the basket.

He turned his hand over so their hands rested palm to palm, before he tugged her closer their lips just inches from touching. Her entire body began to spark with life and energy as she stared into his eyes, knowing what was about to happen. Slowly, ever so painfully slowly, his lips advanced toward her's. She nearly danced with the energy in the air, and she could hardly wait for the brush of his lips against her own. Finally, as if a drink to a thirsty desert traveler, he lowered his lips to her's fully. Together they stood there until the sound of someone clearing their throat behind Keely caught her attention. Begrudgingly, she tugged herself away from him and turned to see her last appointment of the day standing hands on hips behind her.

"So this is what you do on your lunch break, eh Miss K?" the very hostile, Paige Henderson stood daring either of them to deny what she'd seen.

"Only every other day." shot Blaze, his eyes glittering with laughter as he released her hands smiling his good-bye. "I'll call you later, Keely." he whispered for her ears only, before going back to his cleaning up.

Keely took a few steps toward the girl, gesturing toward the side door to the school. "Let's go on inside and we'll discuss this."

"Nothing to discuss, you were making out with your boyfriend. Way to go, Miss K, he's pretty cute." the sixteen year old smiled broadly as her eyes sparkled with mischief.

"Yes, he is, isn't he?" Keely had long since found out that Paige was sick of being misunderstood and not listened to. She'd made it a practice to tune everyone out since her parents had stopped caring, as she put it. Sighing, she held the door for one of her regular appointments. This had all the makings of a long afternoon.

--

Blaze sighed as he packed the picnic basket back in his truck, their afternoon together was over. It seemed it had just started. Jumping in the truck, he drove toward home wishing he could've had longer to spend with Keely. Instead, he'd have to deal with Jazzelle's questions over the phone and getting some sort of work done today.

His mind wandered to the kiss they'd shared, the chemistry that still flowed between them. Did she feel it still? Sighing once more, he resolved to ask her out again and see what would happen. He really did like her. Parking the car in his reserved spot outside of his apartment, he climbed down and walked toward his front door. He wasn't in a hurry to be subjected to 20 questions, Jazzelle style.

The phone rang inside, he could hear it already. Rolling his eyes, he shoved the key into the knob and opened the door. Letting the phone ring, he set the basket down on the counter and unloaded each dish individually into the sink. Let Jazzi sweat a bit. If he'd known Keely's friends were this crazy and close, maybe he would've rathered to meet her family. Laughing out loud, he grabbed the phone. "I'm home and no ones dead, what more do you want woman?"

"Wow, is that how you always answer your phone or are you waiting for someone special?" the voice on the other end was not that Jazzi's, it was Keely.

Shaking his head at his own stupidity, he lowered himself into a kitchen chair. "I was waiting for Jazzi to call and ask how the date went."

"I see," she chuckled aloud, "my friends drive you crazy yet?"

"Yet? No, not yet." he grinned, it helped him to feel better just hearing her voice.

"Do you think you'd be up to movies and popcorn tonight at my place with all of us?" her hopeful question sent his brain and heart flying. They didn't invite people to join them all often, but when they did it meant they were thinking about adding to their family.

"I'd love to." was his reply immediately.

--

Jazzelle watched the couples file in and take seats together, and the singles file to the other side. Feeling torn by being a hostess, and avoiding the couples like the plague, she took a seat in the middle of their lines. Her sister's near fiance pulled Charity into his lap and kissed her cheek. Altan and Lidia sat cuddled together on the couch, hand in hand laughing at some joke that'd passed between them.

The doorbell rang, another couple. Standing, she scooted to the door and opened it to reveal Keely and Blaze smiling at each other. So far, so good. Her plans were working. "Come on in."

"Thanks for inviting me along, Jazzi." Blaze said as the two of them stepped in through the door together.

"No problem, we've got couples row over there." she gestured toward the couch where the two other couples dwelt.

Bethanie and Andre beckoned her from singles wall and she sighed. She really needed to step up her game here. "I'm coming, I'm coming." she called waving her hand to silence them.

Closing the door, Jazzi watched as Keely and Blaze took a seat on the floor before greeting everyone. She sighed, and walked into the kitchen grabbing the bowl of popcorn from the counter. "Anyone want a soda?" she called after she'd handed the bowl to Bethanie.

"I'll take one!" called everyone in unison.

"Sure thing, I'll bring in a variety."

Grabbing an assortment of soda bottles from the refridgerator, Jazzelle set up the table full of refreshments. This was the life, all of her friends together to watch movies, old favorites and new ones. She smiled happily. Life was good just as it was, nothing needed to change. She'd show Lidia.

"1,2,3 Strikes You're Out."

Chapter 3

Grasping the door handle, Keely opened the side door to the school and walked inside. So much to do today, and not so much time to do it in. The school halls were already humming with students, some who acknowledged her with a wave and others who ignored her completely. Sighing, she tip-tapped her way down the hall to her office.

"Hey Keelz, what's up?" greeted Megan, the desk clerk with a wave and a broad smile.

"Nothing much, Meg, what's up with you?" she returned her smile.

"Just sorting mail, which reminds me, here's your's." handing her the mail with a flourish, Megan went back to her sorting.

Keely waved her thanks and walked back to her office, glad to have the reprieve from people for a few minutes. Lowering herself to her plush office chair, she began sorting through the mail herself trying to find something aside from junk to look at. One envelope in particular caught her attention, it displayed tiny roses crawling across the front and in the midst of the roses was scrawled her name. Catching her lower lip between her teeth, she began to open the letter.

Dear Keely,

Meet me at the picnic table under the oak tree at noon. See you there ;)

Blaze

The short note sent butterflies to her stomach and goose flesh rising on her arms, what was it about him? Sighing, she smiled and tacked the note to her small cork board as a reminder. Lunch with Blaze for the second day in a row, Jazzi would be pleased. But was she? The butterflies took flight all over again as she spied the picture on her desk of the two of them together at last years school picnic. Yes, she was pleased. Quite pleased.

Staring holes through the clock she begged for it to move faster. Would noon ever come?

--

The sun was exceptionally warm for the spring day, but Blaze smiled as it was the perfect setting for the picnic. Throwing a checkered table cloth over the table he set the basket atop it. Jazzi had assured him that the idea was sure fire. It was sweet, innocent, and quite the alternative to taking Keely out to dinner every night. The aroma of homemade pies wafted his nostrils as he set up the plates and cups he'd brought from home. Jazzi had hand-made the food, but she'd told him he didn't have to tell Keely that. Laughing, he shook his head, the woman was almost more worried about their relationship than either of them was.

"Hey there."

Keely's voice came from behind him, making him turn swiftly and nearly dropping the dishes all over the ground. He swallowed hard trying to take in the picture of her in an official looking suit and smiling eyes. "Hey." What a cunning answer, witty Blaze, really. Witty.

Searching through brain files for something better to say, he went back to setting the table before being haulted by a soft hand touching his.

"Don't be so nervous, it's only me, Blaze." she winked, before taking the silverware he held and setting both places.

"Me? Nervous? Never." he grinned at her as he set the last glass down on the table. "You're just so beautiful that I lost all thought, that's all."

Looking flustered, she sat on the picnic bench and reached for the basket, "So what did you bring me?"

Chuckling to himself, he opened it, "I have no idea, Jazzi cooked."

"Knew she had something to do with it. It wasn't your handwriting on the front of the envelope." she shot him a smile that made him weak at the knees, so he sat on the bench facing her.

"Thanks, you under estimate me you know. That very well could've been my handwriting." he dared her to say anything, tossing his chin in the air like that of a four-year-old fighting over a toy.

"But it wasn't." she grinned tugging his chin down until he met her eyes. They sat transfixed for a moment in each other's eyes before she shrugged away.

"No it wasn't." he hedged, trying to pull himself together after the electric shock her blue gaze had jolted into him.

"Right...well I suppose we should eat before it gets cold." said Keely, reaching for the fried chicken that sat in the basket.

"I suppose so." he replied, watching her although he wasn't quite as hungry as before. What had just passed between them?

--

Jazzi pulled the binoculars away from her face with a smug grin replacing her serious set lips, "This is working." she added aloud.

"You are bordering on crazy." came Lidia's voice from the seat beside her.

"Shut up, I am not." she shot back, groaning as she watched Blaze and Keely pull away from each other and begin eating. "This is going to take a while."

"Stop complaining, you think everything should happen right now. Let's leave them alone and take a walk for goodness sake." Lidia rolled her eyes and tugged the keys from the ignition when Jazzi hesitated.

"A walk? Now? When it's just getting good?" she complained.

"Yes, right now. Maybe you'll spot someone who will help take your mind off of everyone else!" Lidia began to stomp up the sidewalk ahead of her.

Jumping from the car, Jazzi began to run to catch up. "I do not need anyone, I'm perfectly capable of a long, happy life without anyone."

"Right, you keep thinking that."

"I will." she sputtered, crossing her arms and stomping along behind her friend like a child mid-tantrum. But did she care? No, not really.

"1,2,3 Strikes Your Out."

Chapter 2

The small cafe buzzed with life around them, yet Keely's eyes were focused on the man across the table from her. He smiled at her and her insides seemed to go numb of all feeling, aside from what lingered in her heart for him. Unsure of herself, she lifted her menu and considered the options carefully. "So," she began non-chalantly, "what are you doing back?" Peeking over the corner of her menu at him, waiting for an answer she was surprised when his mouth dropped open.

"I came to see you, to see if we can patch things up, start over..." his voice trailed off as he reached around her menu for her hand. "I really have missed you, Keely."

"I've missed you too, Blaze. I've missed what we have together, but it's so hard apart." she dipped her head to avoid eye contact with him, she knew if he could see into her eyes now he'd see how much she hurt inside.

With his free hand, Blaze pulled the menu from her free hand and reached across the table to cup her chin. "It's okay, I'm staying this time."

"How can I be sure?" the question was out of her mouth before she could stop it, but she needed to ask. She needed to be reassured that he wasn't going to up and take off again. Her heart could take no more, it'd broken and mended too many times within her lifetime.

"You can trust me, Keely, I won't let you down again." he whispered.

"Can I take your order?"

They both jumped as the waitress appeared at their table. Thankful for the interruption as tears were welling in her eyes, Keely grabbed the menu from the table top. "Yes.." As she began to give her order, her thoughts flew in her mind and she had to give them a stop sign as she spoke. He was back, and for good it seemed. She still loved him, but could she risk her heart again?

--

Blaze watched as Keely's face transformed back to a cool mask when the waitress walked away, she'd composed herself. Sighing mentally, he released her hand again before unfolding and refolding his napkin. What could he do? She didn't trust him to stay, and rightfully so. He hadn't stayed before, he'd left and come back over and over. She should hate him, but not Keely. No, her heart was breaking, and he could see that in those blue eyes clear as the sky.

"Stop thinking like that, I don't hate you." she whispered, staring back into his eyes.

"You should, hon." he replied feeling at a loss for what to do.

"That's the problem, I can't."

He couldn't help himself, he chuckled, "So what do you say, another date tomorrow?"

She nodded slowly, "Yeah, another date sounds nice, but not tomorrow. After a night with the girls I'll be exhausted. Too much chocolate and girl talk."

"Ahh, so is THAT what you all do at your girl nights?" he liked the change of conversation, yet missed the openness they'd shared a few minutes ago.

"I can't say," she mocked zipping her lips, "that my friend is highly confidential information."

He shook his head, "You are something, Keely."

"Thank you."

Glancing down at his watch he noted that it was nearly time for said girls night, they'd talked for hours already. "I'd better get you to Jazzi's before she grounds you." he winked.

"Yeah, Lord knows she'll want to hear all about the date." replied Keely, getting up from her seat and grabbing her jacket from the back of the chair.

Carefully, he took it from her hands and held it aloft waiting for her reaction. Slowly, she donned the coat, turning and kissing his cheek, "Thank you, I missed that." she whispered.

He grinned, "Always at your service, ma'am." And he meant it.

--

Jazzelle had nearly worn the carpet down by her windows waiting and watching, pacing back and forth in her haste to see Keely.

"Will you sit already, you're making me nervous!" exclaimed Lidia, hands on hips.

"Yeah, really, Keely will be here soon enough." cautioned her sister, taking a seat in one of the overstuffed couches.

"I can't wait to hear about the date, that's all." she replied, sitting in the chair closest to the door so she could still keep an eye out.

"You need a man." said Lidia, her eyes twinkling with mischief, Charity and Bethanie nodded along with her.

Shaking her head, Jazzi stood again doubling back to the window, "Too busy marrying you all off to find someone of my own." she said focusing on the task at hand.

"Will you marry me off, Jazzi?" asked Bethanie from her place on the arm of Charity's chair.

"Soon as I'm done with Keely, now everybody look busy here they are." she called to her friends as she scooted back to her chair and grabbed a magazine.

The door creaked open, letting in the noise of Blaze's truck pulling away. Keely walked in, "Okay you all can stop looking busy, I'll tell you about the date." she laughed even as she closed the door behind her.

Jazzi found herself laughing and listening to Keely's adventures for the day, but her mind wandered back to her matchmaking. Blaze and Keely were all right for each other, in fact, they should already be together. However, sometimes they were so stubborn. Well, this time, she wouldn't let them get away with it. If she had to ducttape them both to a chair and lock them in a room together until they worked it out, she would. That's just how serious about this she was. Besides, it was fun to see Keely so happy, and Jazzelle was making it her goal to see that look in Keely's eyes forever.

1,2,3 Strikes Your Out..

Chapter 1

The blue sky and the green grass surrounded her in a state of near nothingness that was morning, as Keely took a simple walk down the street. She had nothing on her schedule for today, aside from a movie night with the girls later on. Her heart sighed in relief at the fresh air that filled her lungs, it was a chance to get out of the office today. Away from the counseling that so consumed her life and burdened her heart.

A childish giggle from beside her rent the morning air, and she turned to see a father and son tossing a frisbee to a tiny dog in their front yard. Her mind ran with the idea of family for a few minutes, and soon Blaze entered her thoughts. Where was he? What was he up to today? They were still friends after all of these years together and apart. The spark was there between them, her friends had often commented on how sweet they were together, yet nothing ever cemented their relationship.

Just as if everyone had the right to barge into her thought life, her cell phone came to life in her pocket. "Hello." she chirped, feeling much like the birds around her.

"Hey Keely, how are you?" came the gruff voice she'd come to identify as Blaze's.

"Good actually, on a morning stroll. I've got the day off today." she smiled as she spoke and took in the sights around her as her neighborhood came to life.

"Well, would you be interested in lunch?" his next question intrigued her.

She nodded as if he could see then laughed at herself, "Yes, I would love that."

He chuckled, "Okay, how about I pick you up for noon?"

"That'd be perfect, see you then Blaze." she answered, clicking the button to end the call and depositing the cell phone back in her pocket.

Could she get away with dancing her way back home? Excited at the possibilities of a lunch date with Blaze, she nearly skipped all the way back to her apartment. When she retrieved her key from her pocket, and opened the door, she came face to face with Jazzelle nearly screaming. "What are you doing here?"

"I've got a key and permission, remember?" Jazzi smiled presenting her key before tugging Keely inside with her. "Besides, I hear we have a date to get you ready for."

"A...hey, how'd you know that?" she questioned even as her friend dragged her into her room and began going through her closet.

"I've got my sources." Jazzi's answer was muffled by the pile of clothes she grabbed out of the closet and transferred to the bed. "Start trying them on."

"Yes, mom."

"Don't take that tone with me, young lady. I'll be waiting outside!" her friend called over her shoulder as she closed the door behind her.

Keely collapsed on the bed beside the clothes, what to do, what to do.

--

Blaze squinted at his reflection in the mirror, "Oh well, good enough." he shrugged walking away from it without a backward glance. Walking out the door of his apartment, he climbed into the car and took off toward Keely's. She was expecting him at noon, and he'd be there. He'd let her down too many times in the past to do so again. Why couldn't he just admit to himself that she was too good to let go? Sighing, he slammed a fist off the steering wheel as a red light stopped his progression toward her house. "Come on, don't have all day!" he called to the inanimate object.

Finally, it turned green and he passed through the light finally arriving at her house. Getting out, he half walked, half jogged up the sidewalk and pressed the doorbell.

Jazzelle opened the door with a smile, "Well, Blaze, aren't you looking nice."

"Yes, yes, where's Keely?" he asked anxious to see her after their near month break from one another.

"She'll be right out, come on inside." she ushered him inside, and closed the door behind him. "Take a seat, I'll be back with her." Jazzelle disappeared down the hallway before he could even say anything more, so instead he took a seat on one of the couches.

Moments later, Jazzelle reappeared followed shortly by an incredible looking Keely. Eyes blue as the sky lit at the sight of him, and her face stretched with a smile, "Hello, Blaze."

"Hello yourself, I've missed you." he stood, walking toward her and bending slightly to kiss her cheek.

She leaned into his kiss, smiling wider than he thought possible, "Thanks for calling, I've missed you too."

Jazzelle made a coughing noise to be sure they knew she was still in the room, he grinned at her then turned his smile on Keely. "You ready to hit the road, beautiful?"

Keely nodded, "Yep. Lock up before you leave?" she directed her question to Jazzelle.

"Wouldn't leave without doing so, you kids have fun. Have her home before six! We're having girls night!" she called after them.

He chuckled, "Yes, Mom."

--

Jazzelle watched after Keely and Blaze drove off together, she walked back into Keely's bedroom and got back to putting away the clothes she'd strewn all over in a mad search for the perfect outfit. "Well, that's one more couple in your hands, God." she said aloud before hanging another hanger on the rack in the closet. "You know what has to be done, I'm still keeping the others in prayer as well. Keeping the tricks up my sleeve, as well." she grinned.

Her own cell phone jingled to life and she reached for it, "Hello." she greeted the caller.

"Hey Jazzi, it's Alex."

"What's going on, Alex?" she asked, her mind flying to her sister or one of the kids. He never called her cell phone, so why now?

"Nothing is wrong, Jazzi, don't have a cow." he chuckled softly before continuing, "I wanted you to help me co-ordinate a surprise engagement party."

"For who?" she asked, a smile crawling across her face.

"Your sister." he sounded as nervous as she thought he'd be.

She chuckled, "No problem, Alex, we'll give her the proposal she'll never forget." After squaring away the details of the meeting she'd set with her sisters future-fiance, she closed her cell phone and put it in her pocket. "One down, two more to go, two on their way."

"Route for the Home Team."

Chapter 10

Lidia climbed the stairs to the box seats her friends had insisted on every year, year after year that they'd lived in the Bronx. "So this is it." she said grandly, making a great show of the row of empty seats.

"It's..nice." he muttered behind her, wrapping an arm around her waist and letting her guide her into the seats.

"Nice? This is what Charity calls, prime seating. You see third base?" she pointed toward where the third baseman stood.

He nodded in the affirmative.

"Exactly!" exclaimed Charity from behind them.

"Hey, when'd you get here?" asked Lidia, pulling herself away from his grasp to hug her long time friend.

"Just now." was the reply as Alex filed in behind Charity and the four of them took their seats.

"Where's the rest of the crew?" Altan questioned, as he looked around.

"I'm unsure," came Charity's reply as she looked arounnd the stadium, "Jazzelle said they weren't coming, something about a double date?"

Lidia glanced into the upper tier and sure enough...

--

Jazzelle elbowed Andre, "Pass the popcorn, man."

"Alright, alright, it's coming, it's coming!" he exclaimed shoving the box into her hands.

"Yeah, yeah, so is Christmas." came her muttered reply as she scarfed a handful of the buttery fluff and handed it back.

"This is fun, Jazzi, who's next?" questioned Keely from beside her as she watched Altan and Lidia beside Charity and Alex.

A mischievous grin was her only reply as Jazzelle met her eyes.

"Oooohh no! Not me!" said Keely lifting her arms in surrender.

"If Jazzi says it's you, it's you." called Bethanie from beside Andre.

"It's not me!" Keely said defensively.

"Sure it isn't." laughed Andre.

Muttering to herself, Keely pulled her baseball cap down over her eyes and looked toward the baseball diamond again.

Her friends fell against each other in uproarous laughter, but somehow, she didn't find them the least bit funny!

--

Altan watched as Lidia smiled at him from beside her friend Charity as she carried on a conversation about an upcoming party for one of Alex's children. Sighing, he leaned against his hand and watched further.

"You've got it just as bad as I do." muttered Alex from beside him with a grin as he watched Charity with the eyes of a sleuth.

"What do you mean?" he asked hating taking his eyes from her and turning them toward her friend's boyfriend.

"Wanna' see something, man?" asked Alex reaching for his pocket.

Altan found himself nodding, what did the man have?

A tiny jewelry box was in Alex's hand, he extended it hiding it from the outside world. With a soft rasp, the velvet box was open and Altan found himself staring at a huge diamond on what appeared to be an engagement ring. "I'm going to be asking her to marry me soon. I never thought I'd even settle down enough to marry. You've got it just as bad, I can tell."

"Wow, that's the biggest rock I've ever seen outside of a jewelry store display case." he whispered so as not to be overheard by the women.

"Yep, and if I estimate correctly, you'll be doing just the same thing not so long from now." with those words, Alex hoisted himself up and out of the chair walking toward Charity with a grin on his face.

Altan tapped his chin considering this as he watched Lidia with her friends, he loved her. He really did. Was Alex right? His smile grew as he too hoisted himself to his feet and walked over to the group. This was what was right in his life. Guess it was time to route for the home team and get with the program. He was staying around, for good.

"Route for the Home Team"

Chapter 9

Sleep evaded her the next week, why she couldn't sleep she'd never know. Staring at the ceiling, she moved further under the sheets, until the sudden ringing of the phone had her squirming to get out. Grasping the phone in on hand, she shoved it up against her ear, "Hello?" she asked breathlessly.

"Lidia? It's Altan. I couldn't sleep. I wondered if you could?" his voice held a hint of a suggestion.

"You called to wake me up to ask if I wasn't asleep?" she raised one eyebrow and smile slyly.

"Well...yes, I suppose so." came his answer.

"Lucky for you I'm awake, or I'd be wringing your neck right about now." she laughed as she spoke, belying her upset state.

"I wondered if you couldn't sleep, if you'd like to come over for that first date I promised. We'll certainly go out somewhere some other time, but I've got a few tricks up my sleeve..." he let his voice trail and she felt awkward.

"Wow, well, okay." she whispered, coughing to get her voice back.

"Not exactly the most enthusiastic reaction to a date request I've gotten before, but it'll work." he added before hanging up the phone.

Smiling now, she hung up the phone and went to find something to wear. He wanted her over for a date, that apparently he'd prepared inside his home. What guy did that? Her mind quickly supplied, only the ones in your books. Sighing, she grasped a nice outfit from her closet and tried it on. Taking a look in the mirror, she decided it was good enough. Any guy who didn't have the decency to call before 3 am to ask for a date didn't deserve more.

Walking out the door, she locked it behind her and shoved her keys into her pocket. It seemed their houses which were close had now gained distance. It was sick really, she was sick. Why did she like him so much? Her heart thumped his praises and she couldn't help listening to it, knocking on the door she took a deep breath and anticipated him.

He sat in his wheel chair inside the door with a smile pastered to his face. "Come on in." he said, opening the door wide to her.

"Thanks," she replied stepping inside.

Once inside, she followed him through the kitchen and into the living room. Her first reaction was to gasp in awe of the room. Altan had prepared an incredible feast, which sat on a small table in the middle of the room.

"For you." he whispered at her side, extending a single red rose toward her.

"How did you..?" her heart gave an excited thump, as her mind worked overtime to figure it out.

"Called in a few favors." was his smug reply.

His hand cupped hers and he led her to the table where a pillow sat on either side of table, where candles were their only light. Lowering herself to the pillow, she watched as he manuevered to do the same keeping his legs clear of the table.

"So we finally get our date." she sighed happily before testing the food before her.

"Yes, finally." he winked at her as if he was in on a private joke.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" she asked finally, annoyed that he wouldn't stop grinning at her.

"You're beautiful, even at three in the morning."

She felt her face heat, "Thank you."

--

Altan watched Lidia turn as red as the strawberry shortcake before her, he couldn't help but smile again. With one hand he reached across the table to grasp her hand, while the other traveled to her returning smile as if drawn there by itself. Slowly, he traced the lines of her smile with his finger tip while she watched him with growing brown eyes. "Your cute when you're flustered too." he whispered.

"Thanks." came her return whisper as she stared into his eyes.

He swallowed hard at the look in her eyes, he'd been right. She had fallen for him as badly as he'd fallen for her. "Lidia?" he questioned, pulling his hand away for a brief moment before placing it in his pocket.

"Altan?" her voice was soft as if she knew he'd peaked in at the emotions that dwelt deep inside of her.

"Do you mind coming over here?" his voice now seemed all to loud for the quiet setting around them.

Within seconds she was at his side, "This better?" she asked in a whisper.

Nodding slowly, he ducked his head to press his lips to hers getting lost in the very presence of who she was. Her scent surrounded him, and her soft dark hair flowed over his hands. Sighing in happiness, he deepend the kiss and pulled her close to him. He never wanted to let go, he realized that now. With that shocking realization, he broke the kiss. "Lidia, I don't want this to end." he pressed, reaching for her hand.

Her eyes were wide, "You broke that kiss to say that?" Her teasing smile returned as well as the glint of mischief in her eyes.

With a smile of his own he pulled her into his arms gently as to keep her away from his legs, slowly he rocked back and forth. Smile growing by the minute he began to sing, "I think I love you, so what am I so afraid of?"

Laughter greated his singing as she knew as well as he did he was terrible, however he hoped she got the picture. "Are you serious?" she grinned throwing her head back to stare up into his eyes.

He nodded his head again, "I'm quite serious. I love you, Lidia."

Eyes brightening, she covered the distance between them to bring her lips to his again. "I love you too, Altan."

"Route for the Home Team."

Chapter 8

Lidia rolled the wheel chair into Altan's home, complete with complaining patient.

"I do not need to be wheeled around like a baby." he muttered as he transfered himself from the chair to the couch.

"Sure you don't, Mister I-enjoy-jumping-from-airplanes-and-landing-hard." she taunted, poking him in the side, frowning as he winced. "Sorry!"

"Yeah, next time remember the ribs, please!" he exaggerated falling over and clasping his side with one large hand.

"I said sorry, shut up, Altan." she tossed a pillow at his head, ducking into the kitchen before he could throw it back at her. Grabbing the makings for a sandwich from the cooler she'd hauled over from her house, she made him a quick lunch of a sandwich and chips. Peace ascended over her at the thoughts of him being home, finally. After two weeks of him complaining in that hospital room, they'd gotten sick of him and thrown him out. Okay, so not exactly, but it was what she'd told him.

"Are you hurrying or am I starving?" he called from the other room.

"Starving!" she yelled, grinning as she filled a glass with lemonade. Quickly, so as her new patient wouldn't starve, she scurried back into the living room. "I'm here, I'm here, don't die!" Handing him the plate and glass, she took a seat beside him.

"Thank you." he whispered before taking a bite of the sandwich and smiling. "This is peanut butter and jelly."

"Well, what did you expect? Roast beef? A girl's only got so much on hand at a time." rolling her eyes, she chuckled letting herself feel the unexpected happiness that bubbled inside of her at his surprise.

"I didn't expect to revert to my childhood, but it's not so bad." he grinned now as he broke off half of his sandwich and handed it to her. "Got any cookies and milk for later?"

She nodded, "Sure do." The smile that stretched his face made her heart do a happy dance, what was this feeling and why for Altan? Would he still need her after he'd recuperated from his injuries? Could her heart handle letting him go again?

--

Altan watched as Lidia cleaned up his apartment for him, and he hadn't the heart to tell her the maid would be over tomorrow. Her smile as if she was enjoying herself caught him off guard, and he laid back on the couch. Just watching her made his heart do odd things, he really was falling fast and hard. Too sleepy to sit up any longer, he closed his eyes and waited for sleep to overtake him. However, it seemed his heart was too busy doing flip flops and his brain involuntarily reviewing all she'd done for him over the years and for the past month. Sighing, he opened his eyes, if he was going to see her anyway, might as well be in the present. "Lid?"

She stopped her progression through the house, and turned to him, "What?"

"Come here." he beckoned, sitting up and tapping the seat next to him with a hand.

Shrugging, she walked over and sat beside him, "What is it?"

With a smile, he caught a piece of her hair between his fingers and smoothed it behind her ear. "Once I get better, I'm going to take you on a date that you could only dream of." he said finally, letting his fingers graze her cheek.

"A date? You and me?" her eyes popped open wide as she stared at him in disbelief.

"Who else? We're the ones who've been flirting shamelessly for a month now. Also the ones who feel something for each other." he whispered, knowing he sounded to her like a complete idiot. Somehow he wished his heart wasn't beating so loud that she could most definitely hear it.

"Well..I guess you're right." she turned toward him, eyes full of questions as she found herself within inches of his face.

"I am right, Lid, believe me." with a wink, he leaned in a pressed his lips to hers. So much for staying unattached until he was sure.

Flustered now, she pulled away, "Okay, I can try." she whispered back, leaning against him for what he considered all too brief a moment.

"Try hard, because I like you, Lidia." he now felt all of sixteen again.

"I'm glad you do, Altan, I like you too." saying that, she rose from her seat beside him and went back to cleaning up.

After a few hours more of being together, she paused the movie they were watching, "I think I should go on home now. It's getting late." Standing, she grabbed her sweatshirt and pulled it over her.

"Alright, if that's how it has to be." grinning at her, he transferred himself back into the wheelchair and strolled along after her. "Thanks for being here, Lidi."

She turned toward him with a smile, "Anytime, and I'll be back tomorrow. Call me if you need anything." With a nod she was on her way.

Sighing, he watched after her as she walked to her house just next door. That girl had sure gotten a hold of his heart. But what was he going to do about that?

With a stunning realization, he found his answer. Nothing. He was going to do absolutely nothing about it.

"Route for the Home Team."

Chapter 8

Lidia rolled the wheel chair into Altan's home, complete with complaining patient.

"I do not need to be wheeled around like a baby." he muttered as he transfered himself from the chair to the couch.

"Sure you don't, Mister I-enjoy-jumping-from-airplanes-and-landing-hard." she taunted, poking him in the side, frowning as he winced. "Sorry!"

"Yeah, next time remember the ribs, please!" he exaggerated falling over and clasping his side with one large hand.

"I said sorry, shut up, Altan." she tossed a pillow at his head, ducking into the kitchen before he could throw it back at her. Grabbing the makings for a sandwich from the cooler she'd hauled over from her house, she made him a quick lunch of a sandwich and chips. Peace ascended over her at the thoughts of him being home, finally. After two weeks of him complaining in that hospital room, they'd gotten sick of him and thrown him out. Okay, so not exactly, but it was what she'd told him.

"Are you hurrying or am I starving?" he called from the other room.

"Starving!" she yelled, grinning as she filled a glass with lemonade. Quickly, so as her new patient wouldn't starve, she scurried back into the living room. "I'm here, I'm here, don't die!" Handing him the plate and glass, she took a seat beside him.

"Thank you." he whispered before taking a bite of the sandwich and smiling. "This is peanut butter and jelly."

"Well, what did you expect? Roast beef? A girl's only got so much on hand at a time." rolling her eyes, she chuckled letting herself feel the unexpected happiness that bubbled inside of her at his surprise.

"I didn't expect to revert to my childhood, but it's not so bad." he grinned now as he broke off half of his sandwich and handed it to her. "Got any cookies and milk for later?"

She nodded, "Sure do." The smile that stretched his face made her heart do a happy dance, what was this feeling and why for Altan? Would he still need her after he'd recuperated from his injuries? Could her heart handle letting him go again?

--

Altan watched as Lidia cleaned up his apartment for him, and he hadn't the heart to tell her the maid would be over tomorrow. Her smile as if she was enjoying herself caught him off guard, and he laid back on the couch. Just watching her made his heart do odd things, he really was falling fast and hard. Too sleepy to sit up any longer, he closed his eyes and waited for sleep to overtake him. However, it seemed his heart was too busy doing flip flops and his brain involuntarily reviewing all she'd done for him over the years and for the past month. Sighing, he opened his eyes, if he was going to see her anyway, might as well be in the present. "Lid?"

She stopped her progression through the house, and turned to him, "What?"

"Come here." he beckoned, sitting up and tapping the seat next to him with a hand.

Shrugging, she walked over and sat beside him, "What is it?"

With a smile, he caught a piece of her hair between his fingers and smoothed it behind her ear. "Once I get better, I'm going to take you on a date that you could only dream of." he said finally, letting his fingers graze her cheek.

"A date? You and me?" her eyes popped open wide as she stared at him in disbelief.

"Who else? We're the ones who've been flirting shamelessly for a month now. Also the ones who feel something for each other." he whispered, knowing he sounded to her like a complete idiot. Somehow he wished his heart wasn't beating so loud that she could most definitely hear it.

"Well..I guess you're right." she turned toward him, eyes full of questions as she found herself within inches of his face.

"I am right, Lid, believe me." with a wink, he leaned in a pressed his lips to hers. So much for staying unattached until he was sure.

Flustered now, she pulled away, "Okay, I can try." she whispered back, leaning against him for what he considered all too brief a moment.

"Try hard, because I like you, Lidia." he now felt all of sixteen again.

"I'm glad you do, Altan, I like you too." saying that, she rose from her seat beside him and went back to cleaning up.

After a few hours more of being together, she paused the movie they were watching, "I think I should go on home now. It's getting late." Standing, she grabbed her sweatshirt and pulled it over her.

"Alright, if that's how it has to be." grinning at her, he transferred himself back into the wheelchair and strolled along after her. "Thanks for being here, Lidi."

She turned toward him with a smile, "Anytime, and I'll be back tomorrow. Call me if you need anything." With a nod she was on her way.

Sighing, he watched after her as she walked to her house just next door. That girl had sure gotten a hold of his heart. But what was he going to do about that?

With a stunning realization, he found his answer. Nothing. He was going to do absolutely nothing about it.

"Route for the Home Team"

Chapter 7

The smell of antiseptic only served to make Lidia nauseous as she sat faithfully waiting in the chair beside Altan's bed. The doctor had said he'd be waking up anytime now, yet he still lay there with closed eyes. He drew ragged breaths in and out, and for the first time in her life she worried more than she thought healthy. Two broken legs, three broken ribs, fractured arms...the list kept going on. Her heart thudded painfully against her chest as she watched him. He was so full of life, why had this happened to him? Biting a lip thoughtfully, she decided that whatever it took for him to get better she was going to be there to help.

"Stop staring, that look could raise the dead." muttered Altan, his lips moving slowly.

Feeling like she'd pushed a key into an electric socket she watched him, "Well my my my, look who's ready to wake up."

"Not so much, the world being dark was much better than staring at a hospital room and feeling what I feel." he whispered before turning to her. "Although, from this angle it's not a bad view."

She wished she could slap him without hurting him, "Aw, shut up."

His lips tugged into a grin as he watched her, "I'm serious, you're all I thought about while I was laying there, Lid."

"Well," she said scooting her chair closer to the bed, "would you believe that I thought of everything but you while you were gone?"

Chuckling now, he shook his head, "No way, Jose'."

"The name's Lidia..where did those nurses go? I think you've got amnesia too."

"Oh this is Ludia all over again!"

She found herself laughing so hard at the old joke that she could hardly stay seated. "I still hate her." she added decisively. He'd made Ludia up a long time ago, yet the years seemed to fade away when they were together.

His eyes met hers in that brief moment, "I know you do." he uttered with a smile.

A shiver ran through her limbs as she stared into his dark eyes, what was going on with her?

--

Altan sat staring at a now sleeping Lidia, a smile crossing his face briefly before confusion clouded his mind again. When he'd come back into her life he'd expected for them to pick up with being friends and shameless flirting, however now he was feeling much more. Could the things he felt for her be put into words? How could he feel so much without even a first date? His heart confirmed what he felt, kicking up against his sore ribs. Taking in a deep breath he kept his eyes fixated on her, vowing whenever she awoke to kid her about the soft snoring that he now found endearing. Comforted by her presence, he closed his eyes and felt himself drift off into the nowhere land that was his dreams.

Opening his eyes what seemed like minutes later, he took in the empty chair and the breakfast tray that lay on his bedside table. Where was she? Ears tuning to a soft melody from a slight distance, he moved his head to find where she was.

"I'm over here." came the soft voice he'd dreamt about.

He felt himself smiling, "Hey, did you know you snore when you sleep?"

She blinked from her spot arranging baskets of flowers on the window ledge, "I do no such thing."

"Okay, you believe that, Lidi..."he let his voice trail off, "Who are the flowers from?" He was confused, no one knew it was him missing yet, did they?

"My family and friends." she put in quickly, turning toward him wearing a large smile.

"That was awfully nice of them." he felt unworthy of the gifts they'd sent. What had he done, aside from crashing a plane into the mountains?

"Stop thinking like that, their glad you're okay. That's all." she read his mind.

They both settled into the comfortable silence between them, until a nurse came in and she scooted out to get something for herself to eat.

"Your girlfriend is quite pretty." put in the nurse as she took his blood pressure and inspected his wounds.

"Thanks..but..." he tried to correct her, but the nurse simply wouldn't shut up about all that Lidia had done during the night.

Did he really want to correct her? His brain spun in the cloudy sea of confusion, yet one thing remained sure. He loved Lidia. Heart pounding, he listened to the nurse babble on, yet his eyes were fixated on the door waiting for her to return.

--

Jazzelle cornered Lidia in the hospital corridor outside of Altan's room, "How is he?" she asked, leaning against the wall and very much aware of her spot in Lid's way.

"He's fine. I'm falling faster than I've ever fallen before." she relayed dejectedly hanging her head.

"Hey," said Jazzelle, lifting her friends chin with her hand, "Come on, Lid, we've had it rougher than this. Remember Howard?" She could almost see the gears working in Lidia's head as she conjured up an image of the awful blind date Bethanie had set for her.

"Oh my, do I..who could forget Howard? He's an awful memory." decided Lidia, gaining more of her usual sparkle to her eyes.

"Well, that man in there is much better than Howard could ever hope to be. If he likes you even a tenth of as much as I can see that you still like him, you've got a chance." she enthused, feeling much like the cheerleaders she despised.

"You think so?" her friend, very much like a younger sister looked at her with eyes full of doubt and questions.

She smiled and nodded, "I do." She watched as Lidia turned on her heel and walked back toward the room. "Now if I were only so certain about my own love life, we'd be set." she added decisively before turning on her own heel and walking back toward the waiting room.

"Route for the Home Team."

Chapter 6

Lidia was beyond furious with the plant life around her, "This is why I live in New York City!" she fumed, shoving away a plant that'd attacked her leg. It's bristly thorns clung to her sock and she kicked angrily. "Dane! Help me with this thing!" she shouted at her friend's back ignoring his eye rolling.

"You are holding us up, Lid, we could've been down the other side of this mountain by now." he muttered as he knelt and freed her of the clingy plant.

"You don't have to tell me again, I'm quite aware of the time constraints. Thank you for once again making me feel all of two feet tall." Shoving past him, she stomped up past the next few trees before more brush slapped her in the legs. Feeling the pain twinge in her already open wound she gritted her teeth and moved further.

"I'm sorry, Lid, really, I am." he whined moving closer to her and keeping his steps measured with her's, so he could be a total and complete nuisance.

"Well, Dane, right about now I'm pretty sorry I asked you to come." she muttered.

"Aw, c'mon Lid, don't be a spoil sport."

"A what? Where did you even get that phrase from?!" she questioned, rolling her eyes at him and shaking her head. When she had gotten in front of him, and pushed through the large growth of trees and brush, she came to a clearing.

"I don't know exactly, it just fit." he said, coming up behind her.

Jumping, she swatted him with her hand, "Don't scare me like that."

"Ooooh, someone's jumpy!"

Just as she turned to yell at him once more, something that eerily felt like a hand grasped her ankle.

--

Altan held tight to the first glimmer of hope as he opened his eyes, was he halucinating or was he really holding a human ankle? His heart fluttered with renewed hope as a very feminine scream pierced his ear drum. "Calm down." he whispered, trying to use his quite sorry sounding voice.

"Altan?" the question was also asked in the near-hilarious voice as the woman's face came into view. She looked familiar, who was she? Why was she here?

"That's my name..who are...wait a minute! Lidia?" he asked, sitting up and then regretting that he had he fell back.

"Aye Dios mio! Dane! Look at him.." her voice was soft now as she touched one of his beyond sore legs.

"I'll be okay, don't worry." he added quickly taking a deep breath between clenched teeth as she aggrivated the injury with prodding hands.

"You don't look okay to me!" she whimpered taking in the scrapes he'd acquired on his face. At least, he hoped they were just scrapes.

"You're gonna need some medical attention, man." agreed Dane, lifting a cell phone from his side.

"I tried calling...but you see my cell phone looks worse than me." he gestured to the pile of broken parts beside him.

"I'd say so." said Lidia, her voice still hushed.

"Hey, I'm really not so bad, Lid. I'll be fine, and we can go out on a date. How's that sound?" he did his best at an attempt to smile.

"Sounds okay, I don't know. Are you sure I have to go on it with you?" she smiled back at him, grasping a hurting hand inside hers. Though, he hardly minded at this point, he was just pretty glad she was here.

"Well, hey, fine suit yourself. Find yourself some other guy who'd put up with you on this mountain." slowly he turned his head from side to side as if looking for another man. "Sorry, no takers."

Lowering herself next to him, she pressed a kiss to his forehead, "That's quite fine."

"Can't even go away for five minutes to call some help and you two are flirting again. Man, you'd think a week of seperation would stop the two of you." called Dane from his spot on the sidelines.

"Shut up." Altan called back, grinning up at Lidia.

--

Dane sighed as he watched out the window of the helicopter, "Did you have to kiss him before they knocked him out?" he asked Lidia from his seat beside a rescue flight paramedic.

The paramedic cocked an eyebrow of interest, "You two an item?"

"No!" she replied testily before turning back to Dane, "And shut up."

Holding up both hands in his defense he pulled back away from her, "Bite my head off why don't you, I was asking a question!"

"Right, and I'm the queen of England." Lidia rolled her eyes before casting them back on Altan's now still form.

"All hail her majesty." he muttered a grin tugging at the corners of his lips.

"Real pleasure to meet such royalty, ma'am." said the paramedic tipping his cap.

"You can shut up too, you're not supposed to be talking. You are supposed to be making him better."

"Right away." griped the paramedic.

Dane couldn't hold back his smile any longer as they landed with a whirl in the parking lot of the nearest hospital. The paramedics rushed off with the gurney containing a very broken, yet hardly dead Altan. Lidia trailed along behind them, and he walked at a slower pace following them. His cell phone jangled to life, and he repeated the details he'd been told by the paramedic and that he'd lived to Jazzelle. When he hung up the phone, he dialed his wife's work number, this had the promise of a long day. At least this story was going to have a happy ending, right now.

"Route for the Home Team"

Chapter 5

The morning dawned bright and fine, the sun's first rays of light shone into her bedroom causing her to stir awake. Stretching her arms high above her head, Lidia stood on the wooden floor for a few minutes before grabbing fresh clothes from her closet for the day. With measured steps, she reached the bathroom and quickly stepped from the chill of the morning into the shower. Letting the warmth of the water wash away the night's cares and waking fully, she stepped out and toweled off before donning her clothes. Sighing, she made her way to the kitchen and hit the on button on her coffee maker before turning on the morning news.

"When we come back, Hillary Matthews will follow the story of a missing pilot and the search for his remains."

The words had her eyes glued to the set, and she searched for some sign of Altan. Feeling like she'd been kicked in the stomach, she sat waiting as the news logo flashed on before a commercial. "You'd better come back soon, Miss Hillary Matthews!" she shouted at the television feeling helpless.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the news report came back. HIllary Matthews was a slinky, blonde who made her want to rip her hair out of her head and scream. The woman knew next to nothing, and "as of now there is no word," seemed to be her favorite saying. They wouldn't mention the pilot's name, all they'd say was he had been on his way to San Francisco with freight. Sighing, she switched off the television and reached for the phone. By memory, she dialed the number she'd dialed next to eighty time this past week. Where was Altan?

"Altan, it's Lidia again. I'm worried about you. Call me back when you get this!" she said to his answering service. If and when he got home he'd hate her for the number of messages she'd left over the week.

Taking a deep breath, she hung up the phone and stared out the window toward his house. Where was he? Her heart thudded that she knew the answer, her mind reeled as she took in the possibilities. Altan was somewhere between here and San Francisco hurt or even more possibly dead. Tears burned at her eyes and she wiped them back furiously, why would he come back into her life only to be ripped away again?

Sighing, she grabbed the phone there was only one person to call for a rescue mission. Dialing the number she knew by heart, she waited for the voice on the other end to sound. "Dane, I need help."

--

Oxygen. Fighting the frustration and fright that closed in around him, Altan tried to catch what little breath he had left. He had no idea how long he'd laid in this same spot, paralyzed by the pain and elements that swirled to life around him. Birds flew above his head, calling to one another in their own native tongue. For once he felt part of the things going on around him, not an outsider intruding on the peacefulness of nature. However, he noted, peaceful wasn't a word he'd use for the things that surrounded him for what had to be an eternity now. No, this colidescope of colors that swirled around him had life of its own, quite a stressful one as well. Bears, wolves, mountain lions, they all roved somewhere in the distance searching for their prey. Their calls could be heard at all hours of the night as he tried to sleep away the exhaustion lethargy had preyed upon him.

Beyond the animals that surrounded him, was the elements. Wind, water, and sun were among the harshest of all. If it wasn't raining in the form of a torrential downpour, it was so hot he could barely lay still. He was sure most of his skin had burned off in the light the sun gave off. Even the thought of the wind that blew through the trees at night had him shivering. He was so sick he could hardly believe it when he heard voices in the distance. Maybe he was hallucinating, he'd heard that that could happen during extreme cases such as he was in.

Staring up at the clear blue sky, he once more ignored the throbbing pain in his back and limbs, he wondered what Lidia was thinking right now. Laying there on his back, surrounded by nature, he decided one thing. Should he come out of this ordeal alive, he'd look at life much differently. Beginning with his relationship with Lidia first.

--

Dane climbed the foot of the mountain along side Lidia, his best friend of ten years, shaking his head at the situation. How did she get herself into these things? A question he voiced out loud, only to be silenced by a quelling look from his counter part. "Fine, hate me, like I care!" he exclaimed, extending a hand to help her up to the next rock.

"Shut up, Dane." she commented moving up past him, "I'm listening for Altan."

"You do know chances are pretty slim that he's in this mountain range, right?" he cocked an eyebrow and waited for her reply.

Apparently she'd chosen to ignore him, for she walked past again hands on hips and a closed look on her face. Her mouth moved as she muttered a curse when she tripped over a large piece of scrap metal.

"What is that?" he asked focusing in on the piece of metal instead of his now injured friend.

"Like I know, or care at this moment..I do know that my leg is now ripped open." Lidia muttered, biting her lip as she inspected the cut on her leg.

Grabbing the metal with both hands, he inspected it closely a number 32 was printed in big bold letters. Under the bold numbers were the smaller letters, AEB. "Lid!"

"What?" she muttered, looking up at him ready to pounce.

"What number did they say Altan's plane was?"

"132, why?" standing again, she moved to his side looking over the piece of metal in his hands.

"What are the chances?" he asked, handing it to her.

"I'd say their pretty slim, let's get moving though." she led the way up the mountain through trees and brush, hoping against hope they'd find Altan this way.

"I just hope we find him alive." Dane whispered to himself watching with concern as Lidia climbed further ahead.

"Route for the Home Team"

Chapter 4

The next morning, Lidia opened her file and lost herself in the lives of her characters again. With each passing minute, another thought about Altan bombarded her thinking process. Shrugging it off, she once more plunged with both feet into her writing and tried to lose herself. The coffee pot, which was set to a timer, came to life and she found herself leaving the document for another time. Surveying the refridgerator, she grabbed out a carton of eggs and began making herself an omlet. All while trying to press her neighbor out of her mind. Checking the clock on the microwave, she noted that it was now ten in the morning and if he hadn't waken up by now that was his own fault. Grabbing the phone, she dialed his house number which he'd left the night of the party.

After three rings, the answering machine kicked on and she left a quick message before returning the phone to it's cradle. Maybe he had an early morning flight, or some errands to run? Shrugging, she went back to making a quick breakfast before trying to return to the characters who tried to beckon her. Just as soon as she sat back down in her computer chair, the phone came to life. Grabbing it quickly, she propped it between her ear and shoulder. "Hello."

"Hey, how are you?" it was Charity's voice, instead of the one she'd hoped for.

"I'm writing, how are you?" she asked, typing in a few more words as her muse allowed her to work.

"Trying to get Ava to eat her green beans." this statement was punctuated by a shrill noise and the clatter of a plate to the floor.

"Sounds like you're having as much luck with her as I am with writing." grinned Lidia, typing a few more words then shaking her head at them.

"Well listen, I did want to give you a heads up, seems theres a big storm headed our way. Just letting you know ahead of time so you can be prepared to save your document quickly and turn off the computer. We know what happened last time." she could almost see Charity nodding as she recalled the situation.

"We had to have a chocolate drowning party to drown away my sorrows. I miss that manuscript."

"Exactly, now save it and get away from it. Come over if you want, I'm baking again."

Lidia smiled at her friends insistance, closing out of the document and hitting save when the button came to the screen. "I'll be over later, I want to go over and see Altan first."

"Awwww, okay. That's so cute though, Lidia. I'm so happy for you." Charity babbled as she whispered to Ava to eat the veggies.

"Thanks, Charity. I'll see you in a bit." With quick precise movements she turned off the computer and got ready for the day. Grabbing her writing notebook and some pens, she tossed them into her canvas bag. Slowly, she made her way out the door and walked the space between her and Altan's houses.

Knocking, she waited for Altan's smiling face to appear behind the door, but nothing happened. Sighing, she resolved that he must be out right now, and she walked to her car. Soon, she was at Charity and Cherlin's apartment, explaining that Altan was out. She tried to hold back the fact that it disappointed her to not be able to see him before she started her day.

--

Altan lay on his back in what must be three feet of mud, yet still through the stickiness of mud he could feel the rough rocks. Nothing worked out in his favor, the rain had only served to make him cold instead of refreshed. Now, shivering and aching to do so was his life. Staring up at the still grey sky, he searched for a way to move. Last night, during the torrential downpours that had fallen upon him, he'd tried to get up. What a mistake that had been! Both of his legs were broken, he was coming to terms with that now. The pain was terrible, starting at the tips of his toes and slowly making a ripple effect throughout his body. He only hoped there was nothing wrong with his spine, yet he hoped the pain he felt was a good thing.

Glancing to the side, he saw the plane in its disarray, part of it was missing as it'd slid down the mountain last night in the rain. Shrugging mentally was easier and so he did so, before thinking about Lidia again. What would she think? Would she realize he was missing? His heart near stop beating, no one would notice he was missing, aside from the freight guys who would miss their cargo soon. Virtually, he had no one that cared where he went or what he did, who would miss him if he died up here on this mountain? The grey clouds drifted in the sky and he wondered if Lidia would miss him.

"I won't let this happen again, if I get off this mountain." he vowed aloud to himself. "I'm going to find out what is going on between us, I'm going to set things straight. I need her to care." The words uttered aloud had him feeling less strained. Slowly, ever so slowly, the pain ebbed away as sleep overcame him. In the darkness of his mind, his body sighed in relief.

--

Earl Peabody checked his watch and the calendar again, it was three days after he'd demanded his shipment be at his loading docks. Grabbing the phone off it's hook, he jammed it up against his ear and dialed the numbers hurriedly. "HUDSON!" he barked into the phone as someone on the other line answered.

"Yes, Mr. Peabody?" asked Hudson, most assuredly jumping to butt-kissing mode at the angry tones of his employers voice.

"Where is my freight, man? You promised it three days ago!"

The man on the receiving end of his temper seemed flustered, he could hear papers shifting on the other end. Nervous humming, and the phone being passed between his hands, "I thought it had reached you, sir."

"Well obviously it hasn't if I'm calling, who did you send on the run?" he demanded.

"Altan, sir." came the clipped reply.

"Altan?" he felt the confusion the name brought. Usually, Altan would have the freight in just after he called in the order. Something was wrong. "Well, I think we have a missing persons case on our hands. Altan never showed."

"He never showed?" the confusion of the other man was apparent as well.

"Something is definitely wrong with him, Hudson, get the police on the phone."

"Yes sir, right away!" came the next reply just before the dial tone rang in his ear.

"Route for the Home Team"

Chapter 3

Stepping out of her car, Lidia walked toward the mall waving to Keely and Jazzelle as she crossed the street. "Hey, sorry I'm late, important meeting over lunch."

Jazzelle stepped closer looking her up and down with a grin in place, "You were with Altan."

"What? How did you know?" questioned Lidia, taking a step back from her friend.

Keely giggled, walking over toward them. "You see the glassy-eyed stare into space, where you're most likely day dreaming about him."

"That goofy grin plastered on your face." added Jazzi with a nod.

"Okay, so maybe I was." she hestitated feeling defensive of her personal life for the first time in a long time. These friends of hers hadn't let her shun them out of her life as was her normal pattern. No, they'd thrown the door open to her heart and made themselves comfortable. "Now are we going to shop or talk about my personal life?"

"Both!" decided Jazzi, linking her arm through Lidia's with a flourish.

"Um-hum!" Keely added, grabbing hold of her other arm.

"I have the feeling this is going to be a long day." complained Lidia good naturedly teasing her friends.

Together they went in and out of stores for hours, until all three of them were thoroughly exhausted. Jazzi checked her watch, "What do you say we call it a day and meet Charity and Bethanie for dinner?"

"Sounds great to me." she answered decisively, taking a seat on the bench outside the mall.

"Me too." added Keely, taking the seat beside her.

Within the hour, they were at the food court in the mall ordering pizzas for the four of them, laughing about the recent situations in their lives. After catching up on the latest guy stories, and cute children stories from Charity, the group sat in near silence.

"Wow...we're growing up." whispered Jazzelle after a long break in the conversation.

Lidia nodded, "I guess everyone has to sometime...right?" She looked around at the group of friends who'd been through a lot with her in the past years. Together they were unbreakable, yet so much had changed in each of their individual lives. Just as she was going on to think about Altan, a hand shot over her shoulder and grabbed a slice of pizza from the tray.

"Hey Andre." said Charity very casually glancing over Lidia's shoulder.

"Hello ladies." he mumbled around a mouthful of pizza.

"Always eating!" stated Jazzi, shaking her head at him.

He grinned, "Man's gotta eat!"

"Yes, but why not somewhere else?" asked Lidia smiling over her shoulder at him.

Chuckling, he grabbed another slice of pizza, "Oh you all love having me around, admit it."

"Okay, we love you..now go away..we're talking about boys again." Keely giggled as she spoke, looking around for someone to add to their collection of 'available men.'

"Don't say I stopped your quests for husbands...I'm gone. See you all later!" he walked away, joining a group of friends before he was out of their line of sight.

--

Altan frowned at the feeling of foreboding in his gut as he climbed aboard the charter plane he was to fly to San Francisco today. Shrugging it off as a fluke, he did a quick routine check of the gauges and the plane itself. Satisfied, he took his seat and got the flight under way.

Staring out at the thick clouds under him, Altan felt the joy of his flying. He still loved every minute of it, no matter how many flights he'd been on. The feeling wasn't the same with both feet on the ground. He'd always enjoyed being up in the air, and being in control of the plane. Just flying for the sake of the love of it. However today, instead of just thinking of flying, he was also thinking about Lidia. The way her eyes lit when she laughed, or the way she could read what he was thinking before he even said it aloud. What was that? The connection that still ran so deep after all of these years.

A dinging in the background caught his attention, shaking his head, he came back from his day dream and looked down at the board of lights and gauges before him. What was happening? He was losing altitude quickly, hurtling toward the ground at a speed he used only for good weather flying. His mind flew with pictures of safety techniques that'd been drilled into his head over the years. Yet, not one seemed to be good for this experience. Quickly, he made his way to the back of the plane and strapped on a parachute.

Glancing out the window, he noted he was just above a mountain range. "Lovely, this will make for quite a splattering." he muttered, trying to find the safest place to jump to.

With what looked like seconds to go, he jumped from the plane into what seemed to be a pile of pine needles. His world was turning upside down, side ways, and every other way, ways that couldn't be natural. Closing his eyes, he wondered why he'd enjoyed flying so much in a plane if without it he was having a hard time believing he was even alive. As he came to meet the ground, he found that the pile of pine needles was really a cover up for large boulders. Sprawled out on his back against the rocks, he found the sky to be quite blue through the mess of trees and mountains. "It's beautiful here, but where am I?" Ignoring the throbbing pain in his body, he reached for what had been his cell phone. The shattered remains filtered through his fingers and lay on the rocks beside him. "Great service." he muttered wishing he could kick something. Heck, being able to move would be lovely right about now!

Not too far from him lay what remained of his charter plane. He sighed heavily, wincing at the pain breathing brought. "Well now what?" he asked no one in particular.

Rain began to fall from the sky, and not a light rain either. Sighing, he winced again. If he thought it couldn't get any worse, it just had. Lovely. All in a day's work for Altan, or so it seemed.

Route for the Home Team

Chapter 2

Late into the night, Lidia still lay awake staring at the ceiling of her bedroom. Altan was going to be her neighbor? After not talking to or seeing him for years, her heart still skipped a beat at the very thought of him. It nearly made her sick to her stomach to sound so much like one of her romance novel heroines, however Altan made her feel like one. He expected a gift basket, shaking her head she turned on her side, a gift basket. What a lunatic. A thought began to form in her mind as she stare at the wall now, and a mischievous grin tugged at her lips.

He wanted a gift basket, a gift basket he'd get. However, maybe he should have specified what KIND of gift he wanted. Jumping to her feet, decidedly not sleeping tonight, she grabbed a large basket from the top shelf of her closet. Quickly, she walked across her apartment and collected things she had no use for anymore. Three dead batteries, the empty tube from a roll of toilet paper, a discarded wrapper from an eaten snickers bar, and an out of shape hanger. "Perfect."

Along with the basket, she scraweled a short note inside of a blank notecard she'd found. "Welcome to the neighborhood, Altan. Enjoy the gift basket. Lidi." Grinning, she grabbed her shoes and slipped them on. To fight off the night chill, she slid her arms into a thin jacket and took off under the cover of darkness. The sounds of city life still beckoned beyond the street, and she found herself setting the basket right before his front door. She was hurrying toward her apartment at top speed, the chill having her shivering before she made it inside.

With one finger, she turned on her computer and sat in front of it. Ideas spinning in her mind she began to write the plot for a new book with a start something like her experience just this nice. A cocky hero, with a sense of humor and looks to add. A heroine very much like herself, sassy with a sharp tongue, incredibly attracted to the hero. Sighing, she stretched and looked at the clock as the hours had passed and the sun now peaked through her blinds.

At nearly eight, a knocking at the door had her getting up from her seat and saving the file quickly. The knocking persisted even as she took the ten steps it took to get to the door, "I'm coming, I'm coming, geez!" she exclaimed, unlocking the door and pulling it open.

No one stood behind the door yet again, however a note blew in the breeze from its place tacked to her mail box. "Very funny, meet me at Cozy Cafe for lunch at noon?" It was scraweled in nearly unreadable hand writing, but it got the message across. He wanted to see her again.

She walked back inside and closed the door behind her squealing in delight as the last message reached her brain. Altan wanted to see her again! Her gaze caught on her fuzzy bunny pjs. Yes, she'd definitely have to find something other than bunnies for tonight.

Walking to the closet barefoot, she gripped the door handle and yanked it open. Decisively, she grabbed her best dress suit for the occasion, and looked in the mirror with it held to herself. "Good?" Nodding twice, she smiled at herself "good," she decided.

Glancing at the clock, she noted she had more than enough time to get ready. All too soon, the clock was striking 11:30 and she was putting the finishing touches on her minimal make up. With a nervous smile in place, she set the essentials into a small handbag she used for business lunches and walked toward the car.

Within minutes she was at the Cozy Cafe just outside of town, she found a parking spot between two expensive looking cars and got out. Admiring the paint job on one as she walked toward the front door.

"Hey lady, watch my paint job!" shouted a familiar voice, followed by a chuckle.

Laughing too, she looked up, "I was doing just that."

--

Altan couldn't keep himself from staring as Lidia walked toward him looking quite like everything good in the entire world. Power suit, dark eyes assessing and twinkling, dark hair flowing over both shoulders. Sighing, she held out his arm to her, "You look lovely." he said finally as he opened the door and guided her inside.

"Thanks, I think. Why are we here?" she asked as they followed the waitress toward a table near the far corner of the restaraunt.

"I wanted to thank you formally for my welcome basket." he grinned maliciously and reached across the table to tweak a lock of her hair.

"Oh you are quite welcome, Altan, although lunch was hardly what I expected." she returned his good-natured teasing.

"What did you expect?" he could nearly see the wheels turning in her head as she contemplated what dasterdly deed she expected from her accomplis.

"I don't know.." she raised a hand to tick off the possibilities, "Egging, toilet papering, a 'hello, I'm here' gift of your own, a yoga videotape...who knows. With you, the possibilities are endless, Altan."

He chuckled, winking at her, "Oh wow, I didn't even think about half of those, thanks for the suggestions for next time. I was planning on making your front yard my new run way."

The waitress interrupted to take their orders, as she scurried away toward the kitchen Lidia was staring at him shaking her head.

"What?" he asked inquistive about her thought pattern.

"My yard your personal runway.."

"You know..you're pretty cute when you don't know what to say." he added finally when her voice trailed off.

"I know exactly what to say, but it wouldn't be suitable for little ears." she said nodding toward the table next to them where two little children sat babbling with their parents.

He leaned across the table, "You wanna' take this outside them?"

Laughter twinkled in her eyes before it escaped her mouth, "You are crazy."

Letting that one slide, he pulled back to notice the waitress coming their way with their food. They ate in a companionable silence, before reverting back to talking about old times. Glancing down at his watch he nearly gasped, it'd been three hours already. "I should probably get going, I've got a flight in an hour." he said finally, picking up the check that the waitress had brought ions ago.

Lidia looked down at her own wrist and her eyes got round, "Wow, I'd better get going too. I promised to go shopping with Jazzelle and Keely today."

"Okay well, I'll see you around the neighborhood!" he called as she walked out the door.

Shaking his head, he thought how ridiculous that sounded. Ridiculing himself, he paid the cashier at the front desk and walked out the door into the sunlight. Time to fly.

"Route for the Home Team"

This is the 2nd story in my series..hope you enjoy!

Chapter 1

Lidia marked a big, bold X through the box containing the seventh day of October on her calendar. Another birthday had come and gone, and not a mention of it from anyone. Not even a call from her parents. Annoyed and quite sad, she padded her way to her bedroom and grabbed her most comfortable pair of pajamas. Dressing quickly, she tossed her hair into a careless ponytail and slouched on the couch ready to take in a night of mindless television watching. When the commercial break came, she jumped at the chance to pop a near forgotten bag of popcorn and pour herself something to drink. Twenty-four years she'd had the same birthday, and never once had they all forgotten like this. Never once. What was different about this year?

Shrugging it off, she decided it was just because they were busy. After all, when weren't people busy doing something these days. Charity had her new boyfriend to be with, not to mention his pint-sized niece and nephew to spread the kind of love only she could. The rest of the group was busy with their careers. Her parents, now that was a kicker. What were they all up to? For one of them to forget was something, but both? Shaking her head, she picked up the phone and dialed Jazzelle's number. If there was one person she could count on for a straight answer it was her.

The phone rang once, twice, three times, finally an answer. "Hello?"

"Jazzi? It's Lidi, what is going on?"

Laughter met her question, "Turn on channel 18 to find out, girl."

After those words, the dial tone met her ear and she growled hanging up her phone and stomping to the television. Fighting with the stubborn buttons on the old set, she finally got the channel programmed in only to see her friends laughing faces as they sang "Happy Birthday."

"We couldn't agree on what to get you exactly, so..for your first gift, open the front door!" shouted Charity from the background as she cradled a smiling Ava in her arms.

Shaking her head and muttering all the way, Lidia did as Charity said. When she opened the door she expected a surprise, however she didn't expect there to be no one behind it. Puzzled, she took three steps out onto the porch in her bare feet.

"SURPRISE!" her twelve-year-old sister Lynsey shouted in her face, wrapping both arms tightly around her.

Lynsey was followed by a host of people, her parents, friends, and family crowded into her apartment behind her. Laughing now she distributed hugs, and slugged her friends in the arms for making her feel so stupid. The party was well under way when Jazzelle announced it was time for gifts.

Begrudgingly, she sat in the chair she was prompted to and opened a ton of gifts calling out thank-you's and distributing grateful hugs. When it came time for Charity and Jazzelle's gift they both began laughing and grabbed her hands tugging her up out of the chair.

"This better be good!" she commented as they led her toward her back door.

"Oh believe me, it is!" said Charity with a laugh.

Jazzelle opened the door, and waved to someone outside of it. Lidia found herself standing on her tiptoes bending this way and that trying to see who was outside, yet they wouldn't let her get close enough to the door to see. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity a shadow appeared on the door, followed by it's twin a tall, muscular man with dark hair and dark eyes. He smiled when he saw her and immediately took a step in through the door way. "It's good to see you again, Lidi."

Confusion set in before she recognized him, it'd been a long time but she'd know him anywhere. "Altan? Is that you?" she whispered it stepping closer.

"I still love it when you call me that." he joked, closing the door behind him.

Laughter bubbled up inside of her until it spilled out her lips, "I can't believe you're here...I could actually touch you..oh my.."

"Yeah, for a minute there I thought you were going to get all novel-heroine-like and throw your arms around me..shower me with kisses. Well, it might not be such a bad idea, what do you say?" he grinned again.

"I say it'd probably be a bad idea seeing as her Dad is about ten feet away." whispered Charity cautiously, with a grin of mischief still in place on her face.

As the party continued, she couldn't help but let her eyes wander over Altan and feel the surprise die down to bring up feelings she'd thought had died long ago. She still liked him, yet she couldn't exactly say she was a twenty-four year old woman with a school girl's crush. Pushing her feelings aside, she decided to enjoy his company, and the companies of her family and friends.

--

Altan watched as most of the party-goers said good night to Lidia and left. Finally, it was just them left and he couldn't exactly keep his eyes off of her.

"Wow."

Apparently she was still coming to grips with her friends surprise for her, he was enjoying the effect it had on her. Her brown eyes were round with reaction still, glittering with excitement and life as always. Smile in place, her cheeks showed a hint of color. He had to stifle a laugh at the get-up she had on, which he hadn't noticed until now. Her pajamas were a comfortable looking, worn in pair covered in what looked to be tiny rabbits. "Nice choice of evening wear." he commented, getting up to survey what was left of the apartment that he hadn't seen before.

Out of the corner of his eye, he watched her take a glance down at her clothing and become mortified, "I wasn't expecting company..and least of all you." her sass was still there.

He couldn't help but laugh, "Nice apartment by the way."

"You think it's nice?" she cocked her head to the side, a small grin taking the place of her former smile.

"It's better than a zoo, that's for sure."

Apparently their old joke had come back to her at that moment, because she started laughing. "Shut up!" she exclaimed, pushing him playfully.

"Make me."

Shaking her head, she decided to change the subject, "What are you doing these days?" Casually, she took a seat on the couch, twirling a stray piece of hair that'd fallen from her pony tail.

"Flying, mostly. A little yoga, some football with the boys. The usual." he could feel the atmosphere of the conversation change back to its familiar footings.

"That's great. Where are you living now?" she was hinting at something, he could see it in her eyes, hear it in her words. And yet..he wanted to make her suffer.

Shifting, he walked to the window and glanced outside, "Hey, there's a moving van next door, did you meet your new neighbors yet?"

She sighed, apparently upset with his subject change, but she followed no matter. "No, not quite yet. This is New York we don't exactly go with gift baskets for the new neighbors." Rolling her eyes, she laid her head back on the couch to watch him.

He grinned, closing the shade for the window, "Well, I'll be expecting my gift basket, New York or not!"

"Take Me Out to the Ball Game"

Chapter 10

Charity looked at the clock a frown pulling at the sides of her mouth, it had been forty eight hours since she'd helped bring the kids home. Still, there was no call from Alex. Her heart thudded to her toes at the realization, and she went to get ready for the game. With her A-rod jersey on, and jeans that had seen better days she brushed her dark hair up into a pony tail and slipped on a yankee cap. It was one of those days where comfort and being a yankee fan took precidence over being good-looking. Nodding at herself in the mirror, she locked the door behind her and took off toward Yankee Stadium.

The row of seats were empty tonight, and her heart reached for her toes once more in the same day. Where was everyone? A note, a bucket of popcorn and two sodas sat in their seats. With a frown, she ascended the concrete stairs and grabbed the note.

Dear Charity,

We know you'll probably kill us for this, but it's our contribution to your love life.

Her heart pounded, and anger coursed through her veins as she read her sister's handwriting bold on the paper. Next to it in parenthesis was a note in Lidia's handwriting:

(Please don't hurt the rest of us, it was Jazzelle's idea!)

She actually felt her spirit lifting as she read the note now, and at the last sentence written in Bethany's girlie handwriting she nearly squealed.

Now take a seat and look down at the enterance to the box..*wink*.

Curious now, Charity sat cautiously lifting one of the sodas into her lap before taking a look at the enterance. There in all of his glory stood Alex Harper, eyes searching her out. She smiled and waved to him, feeling heat rise to her cheeks. He was here! An actual date? Her mind twirled and reeled in excitement. What now?

--

Alex couldn't believe how good Charity could make a simple jersey and old jeans look. Sighing as he walked up the stairs, he accepted her hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it. "You look great today, Charity."

"Thank you." she whispered, her face turning a bright pink he found endearing.

He took a seat next to her and motioned to the popcorn beside her in what was usually Jazzelle's seat. "That for us?"

She nodded, "You're in on all of this, aren't you?" With a laugh, she pushed him jokingly as he held up both hands.

"I had nothing to do with it, I got a phone call that I was expected to show up here or else." he grinned at her sense of humor.

With a shove, the popcorn was in his arms, and she shook her head back and forth. "I should have expected something like this from the whole lot of them!" she muttered, turning her head so fast her ponytail whipped him in the face.

"Ouch." he muttered, cupping his stinging cheek.

"Aw, did I hurt you?" she asked, turning toward him again.

He nodded, "Right here."

With a smirk, she leaned in and pressed a kiss to his cheek. "Better?"

"Much." he enthused, loving the flirting passing between them.

Together they watched the game, he let the comfortable silence envelope him as they sat. The only time the silence was broken was when the umpire made a bogus call and both of them nearly went over the rails after him. He laughed, turning toward her after they'd both settled down. "This is nice."

She nodded, letting her hand settle next to his.

He covered her hand with his own and leaned closer to her. "Would you like to do more things like this together?" he asked finally, looking into her eyes.

Biting her lip, Charity finally let her face break out into a smile. "I really would, as long as their Yankee games."

--

"See now isn't that cute?" hissed Jazelle from the upper tier pointing out her little sister to the rest of them.

Andre chuckled, "Sure, okay, but can we stop watching them make out now?"

Lidia elbowed him, "Aye, men!" she exclaimed, rolling her eyes.

"Will y'all set me up like that?" asked Bethany, with a dreamy sigh.

Tugging the popcorn from Jazelle, she handed it to Miss Julie and the children. "Sure will, Bethany, we sure will."

"Only a cowboy will put up with that idiotic y'all stuff." inserted Lidia with a sigh of her own, that wasn't quite so dreamy.

"I think it can be arranged." decided Jazelle with a self-satisfied grin.

"Oh no!" they exclaimed in unison.

"What?" asked Jazelle, holding up both hands and looking innocent.

"Matchmaker." accused Miss Julie with a sparkle in her eyes.

"Well it isn't as if anyone else is doing anything about it." said Keely smiling at Jazelle.

"Exactly, and I plan to marry y'all off before this is over!" she exclaimed turning back toward the game.

Lidia elbowed her, "Don't you start with the 'y'all' stuff!"

They laughed together, it was the perfect ending to Charity's story, but there were so many happy endings to come.

THE END

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