 
WARM COMFORTS

By

Annie Pelle

SMASHWORDS EDITION

******

Published by

Annie Pelle at Smashwords

WARM COMFORTS

Copyright 2012 by Annie Pelle

Cover by Lisa Browning Photography Tupelo Mississippi

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you are reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return toSmashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.
Thank you for purchasing this book even though the underlying subject can trigger many emotions. The female in my story, Cori, has a new life away from a tragic past. Domestic Abuse is too prevalent in our society and I hope that if you were a victim that you have received the help you need. I hope that if you are a victim that you reach out right now to get help. I hope with all my heart that you have a wonderful loving spouse like I do.
Chapter 1

12 years ago

Catesville, Texas

100 miles west of Houston, Texas

Cori Alyssa Lewis walked calmly away from the lunch room at Ridgemont Senior High School. There was loud laughter following her and just to make their day, Cori acknowledged the insult and the laughter by giving a backwards wave over her shoulder. She could hear the ring leader Seth Reynolds over everyone else. He had gone above and beyond today though in his insults and it would make a great addition to her list that she was collecting.

"Hey wait up" Faith Harris, Cori's friend said as she ran to catch up with her. "Why don't you tell them off?"

"And ruin their good time, never." Cori returned sarcastically. "Anyway, it wouldn't do any good. We have five days until graduation and then I'm out of the city to go to school two weeks after that. I've listened to their taunts for this long; five more days can't hurt me."

"You are nicer about it than I would be."

"Forget about them. I will."

"I just came to tell you that Roger Morgan asked me about you today. He wanted to know where you were going to school next year."

"You didn't tell him, did you?"

"That would be difficult since I don't even know."

"I know and I'm sorry about that. I'll let you know where I am when I get there. I don't want anyone to know before then."

"I remember. Anyway, meet me at the car after school and I'll drive you home."

"Thanks" Cori said as her friend walked away to her next class. Cori entered the classroom and prepared for one of the last tests she would ever take in high school.

Two days before graduation, Cori watched Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds leave the house next door late in the afternoon and decided this was her opportunity. She was done studying so she had time to focus on this one last item that needed to be taken care of before she left Catesville, Texas. She took the eight pieces of paper that she had printed off her computer stuffed them in a large envelope and left her bedroom.

Since no one was at her house, she locked the back door as she left and walked quickly through the backyard to the side yard and slipped into the side yard of the Reynolds' house next door. At the back door of the Reynolds' house she knocked hoping that someone would answer that door instead of the front door. A short minute after knocking, she heard the doorknob turning and saw the door opening.

"Hi Cori" Micah Reynolds greeted.

"Hi Micah. I didn't know you were home."

"I just got home today. Summer break for me too. And I needed to be here to see Seth graduate."

"Speaking of Seth, is he home and can I talk to him?"

"He's here. I'll get him."

"Can you not tell him it is me?"

"Yeah, sure."

"I'll wait here."

Micah disappeared back inside the house and Cori waited anxiously on the porch, she had planned this speech for most of the last two years but she was still so nervous.

"What are you doing here?" Seth asked surprised at who was visiting him

"Don't worry; no one will know I darkened your doorstep."

"So, what do you want?" Seth asked rudely.

"I wanted to give you something. It is something I'm sure you are going to treasure for a lifetime."

"From you? I doubt it."

"I think you'll see it the same way as I do - a memento of your years at Ridgemont." She said handing him the manila envelope. "That is many of the insults I have heard from you over the last four years. You are at four hundred and eight-five. Yes, I wrote them all down and yes that makes me a loser. You have two days until graduation and then two weeks after that to reach five hundred and then I'll print you a newer version with the last fifteen. But then I'll be gone from this town and you'll lose your opportunity to insult me ever again." Cori's anger was beginning to show. "But know this, Seth Reynolds; someday you may own this whole town, this whole county and this whole state. You may even be the President of the United States. I will even have to call you Mr. President but I believe you are going to need me for something and I'm going to remember you and your five hundred insults and then I'm, unless it involves saving the life of someone you love, I'm going to get to turn and walk away. And unlike this time where I'm doing it in private where only you and I know about it, the next time I really hope it is public so you can be as embarrassed as I've been for four plus years." Cori turned and walked away from Seth. "Just remember you are working on a deadline..." she said as she disappeared around the corner of the house.

Seth stood shocked on his back porch and pulled out the list from the envelope. She really had numbered the insults and there were four hundred and eighty-five. He opened his back door and slipped into the kitchen.

"Way to go Cori" Micah said as Seth entered. "She has more class than you'll ever have but she should have done that in public so all your friends could have heard it too."

"She's nothing and she's wrong." Seth said angrily. "What would I ever need her for? It will never happen. She's a loser just like she said."

"I want you to remember a saying _Never say Never_." Micah returned. Seth left the kitchen after giving Micah a dirty look. Micah's laughter followed him upstairs to his room.

Two and a half weeks later, Seth's mother handed him another manila envelope and inside was a revised Cori's insult list and a note _. I'm really disappointed in you Seth; you only made it to four hundred and ninety. Love, Cori._ Seth swore at her note and threw the whole package on his bed as he left the room to go swimming.

Chapter 2

Beaches Toy Company Headquarters

Houston, Texas

Present Day

Seth Reynolds, CEO of Beaches Toy Company, stared out the window of the conference room at the headquarters of Beaches Toy Company. He heard his executive and middle management personnel arrive and take a seat at the table behind him but he didn't acknowledge them until he heard the door close and then he knew everyone had arrived and his assistant Abigail had given him his signal.

He turned from the window to face his employees. "Good morning." He greeted. There was a mixture of greetings back at him. "I hope you had a good weekend because it is going to be a busy week." He paused to look at their faces "Yes, I know I know, it seems to always be busy around here." He joked. His employees laughed with him.

"What is today's date?" Seth asked even though he already knew it

"March 15th" his chief financial officer answered.

"What day does our Christmas toy catalog have to be to the printer in final form?"

"July 15th" answered the products manager of Beaches Toy.

"That's right" Seth answered. He stepped to the table behind him where a sack was waiting for him and he pulled out a stuffed teddy bear and a book along with a box.

"Since I am CEO of a toy company and I happen to be a kid at heart and I love toys, you all will understand and still think I've got machismo when I tell you that this stuffed bear is the cutest thing I've seen in a while." He stated sitting the aforementioned stuffed bear on the conference room table. "And he is the reason you are sitting here right now instead of doing your Monday morning reports and other various chores. Does anyone know why?"

"He's not ours." Seth heard from his marketing manager.

"Give Jason a toy surprise because he is correct. He isn't ours but I want him in our Christmas toy catalogue for this year." Seth saw and heard the mumblings of his staff.

"Ah" chuckled Seth "I see you know where I'm going with this - that's right - I want this little guy and all of his buddies in Beaches Toy catalogue and under our label in time for this Christmas."

Seth's and Beaches' ever polite but extremely talented chief legal counsel raised his hand with a question. "I have a question, Seth."

"Of course you do, Isaac. What would one of our meetings be without a question from you?"

"Very funny" Isaac groaned as the rest of the room chuckled. "Have you approached the company where this bear came from?"

"Isaac, I now know why you graduated top of your class at Harvard. Why didn't I think of that?" Seth teased. He picked up the bear and walked with it to Isaac. Since Isaac and Seth were good friends and everyone knew it they accepted and expected Seth to tease Isaac because a lot of the times it was Isaac teasing Seth. "Can you please tell me the name of that company I need to contact?" Seth asked as he handed the bear and the book to Isaac. Isaac turned the bear upside down and around but didn't see a tag. He looked at the book and didn't see a publisher name or address or anything.

"Who doesn't put their name on their product?" Isaac questioned.

Seth shrugged "Beats me."

Isaac turned the bear around in his hands again still searching for a non-existent tag "Where did you get it?"

Seth grimaced. "Well, if you all can keep a secret from my niece, Mindy, then I'll tell you. Her father, my brother Micah, sent it to her. She received it in that box over the weekend." Seth pointed to the box still sitting on the table. "She doesn't know I borrowed it today."

"Mindy's going to have your head." Isaac laughed.

"No doubt" retorted Seth. "I have until three thirty to return it to her bedroom."

"So where did Micah get it?"

"Well you know Isaac, if his commanding officer didn't have him in some firefight in Afghanistan, I'd be thrilled to ask him but since I can't call him on the phone and he can't read my email until who knows when, I have to find out by myself. Or make the twelve of you do it or help me do it."

"What does the box say?" asked the production manager

"It says Made with Love and a return address of Teddybearville, Texas. And since I'm a Texan and have lived here all my life except for those horrid years in Boston, I don't believe I've ever heard of Teddybearville, Texas. And guess what, it isn't in the atlas, Google Earth, Mapquest or Houston because believe me I've looked. In fact, my head hurts because I looked all day yesterday. I searched every site I could until bedtime last night. I've seen cute bears and ugly bears until I dreamed about bears attacking me in my sleep." Seth's staff laughed with him as he rubbed his eyes. "But seriously, this is your top assignment this week. I've taken pictures of the little guy and the book and Abigail will email them to you as soon as she returns to her desk. Find the website of where someone can buy one of him or his buddies and find me a name of a company. I have four months but no pressure." Seth said in a jovial tone. "Before ending this meeting, I want to tell you that I've read the comments on Facebook.com about our company and I'm thrilled. Tell your people that I'm proud of them and thank them for their hard work. Anything else?" Seth asked. When he received no response from anyone he waved them away "Back to work then." The chairs rattled and the staff left to return to their offices. Isaac remained behind and followed Seth to his office.

"Have you emailed Micah?"

"Yes, I did." Seth answered sitting down behind his desk. "Sometimes it is weeks before he can answer though."

"Don't you pay his bills, snoop in his credit card account."

"I did. It says the same thing. Teddybearville."

"You're kidding?"

"I wish. Come on Isaac, think. Who does this? Where are they?"

"Okay, Seth, you are seriously scaring me with this obsession."

"I know. Daphne avoided me all day yesterday and Mindy gave me a wide berth except at bedtime when she wanted me to read the stupid but well written book." Seth said shaking the book in his hand. "I'm serious. I spent the whole day on searching for this bear."

"Then let Uncle Isaac have the book and the bear so he can return them safe and sound to Mindy." Isaac patronized as he picked up the bear and took the book from Seth. "You have calls to make and contracts to read."

"I know, I know." Seth answered "Our trip to Galveston this weekend, cancelled. My mom called and she isn't feeling well so Mindy, Daphne and I are headed to see her in Catesville. Do you want to go with us?"

"Sure. How is she sick?"

"I'm not sure, that's why we are going. She says she feels listless."

"My mama Millie can't get sick, I won't allow it."

"I'll pass your message along. We are leaving at noon on Friday."

"I'll be ready" answered Isaac. "I'll pick Mindy up from school today. It is t-ball day."

"I remember. Thanks Isaac."

"Later boss" Isaac said leaving his friend's office. He gave the bear and the book to Abigail and told her to get it back to Mindy's bedroom as soon as possible. She laughed and said she would go at lunch time.

Chapter 3

Warm Comforts

Catesville, Texas

Cori arrived at the back door of the warehouse of Warm Comforts. She was ready for a new week of work and discovery. She liked to let her mind wander and dream up new crafts to make and sell. She liked to dream up new "comfort" foods. The past weekend she had spent with a sketch book and had a few new designs to try out this week.

"Hi Kane" she greeted the security guard inside the back door.

"Hi Cori" the young man answered.

"Any troubles?"

"It is all quiet." He answered.

"Keep a close eye out. We got two new arrivals over the weekend and I don't want trouble. Here is the information I have on the potential trouble." She said handing him a package. He quickly glanced through the information.

"Any pictures I can have?"

"Faith is making the copies this morning and she'll bring them to you."

"Yes ma'am. I post them for all shifts."

"You are the best, Kane." She stated as she walked down the hall to her office.

"No ma'am, you are." He said quietly when she was out of range. Kane was a benefactor of Cori's best. He was an uneducated junkie living on the streets four years ago and now he was head of security at Warm Comforts. Cori had taught him to read, gave him shelter and food and helped him get into a rehabilitation facility. He was clean, sober and productive again and there was nothing he wouldn't do for Cori Morgan.

Cori Morgan had been through it all and still was a sweet, kind and wonderful person. Her life in Catesville as a teenager had been normal. She lived with wonderful parents and her big brother in a classic small town house. Right after high school graduation she went to New York University with early admission. Four years later she had graduated with double degree in Accounting and Art History. She was one of the few people to ever combine those two degrees. Most people just looked at her weird when she told them that. But after her life fell apart, she used both degrees to start a business. She created, started, organized and managed Warm Comforts because she was smart and had an accounting degree but she made it a company that flourished under her other love, home. Home to Cori meant crafts, designing and cooking and all things that made a home a place of comfort.

"Hi Cori" greeted Cori's assistant Pearl.

"Hi Pearl. How are you?"

"I'm good. How are you?"

"Energized" answered Cori.

"Good. Your brother wants to see you."

"On Monday morning? Yuck." She teased.

"John has that effect on everyone." teased Pearl.

"He's your husband and you talk about him like that?"

"He knows I love him dearly."

"So do I but we won't tell him that."

"I already knew it anyway." John retorted from his office door. Pearl and Cori had known all along that he would listen to their conversation since his office was just a few steps away from where they were talking. "You both are just rotten." He grumbled as he came to stand next to them. He hugged his sister, Cori and kissed his wife, Pearl. "Cori, I need a few minutes."

"I'm listening." She said. He looked at Pearl then led Cori into his office. Pearl already knew the topic and knew it was going to be more for Cori to absorb. She felt compassion for her sister-in-law who had already been through so much.

"What's up?" Cori asked as they sat around his conference table.

"A couple of things, first of all; you are officially, Cori Alyssa Lewis again. The paperwork came from the judge this morning."

"Thank you. Thank you."

"But the second thing is Roger's mother called this morning, early."

"Of course she did, what now?"

"Well she wants to know when you are going to give up this ridiculous charade about Roger being a wife abuser."

"She didn't really say that, did she?"

"I couldn't make this stuff up, Cori."

"Oh, heavens" Cori swore. "And what else?"

"She wants his professional football memorabilia donated to Ridgemont High School and USC."

"Why? So he can be memorialized as a lie. Roger Morgan is...." Cori surged from her chair to pace the floor then walked out of John's office to her own before she lost her cool in his presence again.

The memories of Roger Morgan swamped Cori as she paced her office. She had gone to high school with Roger Morgan and he had been the football co-captain and a "popular" kid. She had been a loser that everyone had loved to taunt. One time when they had both been home on a school break, he asked her out to the Memorial Day Dance at the Catesville Country Club. She had fallen in love with him that weekend. They had a long distance romance while both of them finished college and then they had eloped after his graduation.

Roger had already been drafted by the Seattle Mustangs to play professional football. His career last for four years and during that time his compensation had been huge and his endorsement contracts had been huge. She had thought their life would be magnificent. That magnificent had changed to horror on their honeymoon and the first time he had struck her. Just like all abusers he had apologized and said it would never happen again. Wanting to believe in her new husband and his love for her, she let it pass. In fact, she let it pass time and time again for four years.

The abuse worsened as his career got bigger. The performance enhancing steroids make his muscles bigger and the pain he inflicted worse but his playing improved so no one cared. He had kept her isolated from family and she had no friends in Seattle. The football commissioner had finally caught him using the drugs and had kicked him out of football. That day was the last day of her marriage and the next to the last day of Roger's life.

Roger had received word that he had been fired from the Mustangs and came home to see Cori. She was unfortunately at the top of the stairs when he caught up to her with his backhand and a sharp ring on his finger. The ring had sliced her cheek from her ear to the corner of her mouth. But the force of the slap and sent her tumbling down the long staircase of their house. According to the housekeeper's statement, Roger walked on her and out the door as she lay there bleeding and unconscious. The ambulance had come to get her and the police put out on all points bulletin on Roger but Roger, under the influence of drugs and alcohol, tried to outrun the police and ended up killing himself when he wrapped his sports car around a tree. Cori had regained consciousness to find out she was a widow and to find out her mother-in-law thought she lied about the whole thing.

Since Roger had kept her isolated during their marriage, no one ever really knew what Cori looked like or what her name was so when all the news of Roger's drugs and abusing came out, she was fairly well protected from the media. Also, her brother John had flown to Seattle and also managed to keep her safe and away from the press. She told her story over and over again to the police but John had also worked it out that only certain parts were covered by the press. She didn't care how he did but she was very grateful that he did do it.

The only smart thing Roger ever did in their marriage was give Cori the control of their finances. Being a big shot in Seattle gave Roger access to women, drugs, cars or whatever else he wanted without paying for it so Cori kept the money wisely and invested in her name so that when his career ended they would have something to live on. That turned out to be her "begin her new life money" which is how she started Warm Comforts and moved back to Texas.

Cori strode out of her office to her brother's office again "You tell Mrs. Morgan" she emphasized with a sneer "that all of Roger's football memorabilia is in the NFL commissioner's office and if she can get it from him then she is welcome to put it wherever her little heart desires."

"Yes, Miss Lewis, I'd be thrilled to pass along that message." John said calmly.

Cori relaxed immediately "Thank you. I appreciate you protecting me from her."

"You will never be hurt by that family again. Never!" John raged. "I'll...."

"Easy big brother" she said coming to hug him. "I love you and thank you."

"Sorry" he said calmly. "Just their name sends me over the edge."

"Don't apologize to me. I'm the same way."

John took a deep breath and relaxed. "Enough about them, it is on to work stuff. I hear we have some new recruits."

"You can't call them that." Cori laughed.

"Why not?" he joked.

"I'm ignoring you and your bad jokes. Yes, we received two new women to the house over the weekend. I have their information and when they are ready you can talk to them. Right now they are probably adjusting to Mom. The one has one little girl and the other has two little boys. All three are slightly injured. Doctor Jane looked them over and gave them some medicine."

"Police?"

"Already been there and done that. They were scared to death but did pretty well considering."

"Where are they from?"

"Houston and Austin"

"Word is spreading about Hannah's House."

"Good. It needs too." Cori was pleased about the exposure she was receiving just not the reason a house like her needed to exist.

"Speaking of Hannah's House, WTXU in Houston wants to interview the creator of Hannah's House."

"Only if it is here and I'm not shown on camera and my name is changed."

"I'll see if they agree."

"Thanks. I'm off to walk the floor."

"And design something new?"

"Already been there done that too." She said happily. "I'll show you later."

Walking the floor was Cori term for overseeing the production of her designs. When Cori had returned to Texas and Catesville after her marriage disintegrated, she used the money left to her from Roger's will and her wise investments and created Hannah's House. The name Hannah means Grace and women who were abused were definitely in need of Grace. She purchased a few thousand acres of land outside of Catesville where she built a house the size of a small hotel with plenty of security. She also built a warehouse and two stores.

While Cori had been recuperating she had received stuffed animals from her mom to keep her company. She designed and made little outfits for them to keep from being bored. Finally she decided to design a stuffed bear of her own and it had turned out very cute. Faith and Nia her friends from high school saw it and wanted one so she made them each one. Faith put it in her office at the real estate company and several people there saw it and wanted one. Nia put it in her office in Dallas and several people there saw it. Soon, Cori was busy making and selling these little bears. When Hannah's House was built she wanted to give women a chance to get on their feet again with confidence and money so she created a company to give them those opportunities. That is where Warm Comforts originated.

Now Hannah's House was home to seventy-five women and children. All of the women worked in some capacity at the warehouse, one of the two stores or the daycare facility. One of the stores was managed by Faith. It was called Hannah's Crafts with a special section for her special bears. It was called Teddybearville. The other store was managed by Nia and it was a restaurant full of comfort foods.

The production factory for the stuffed bears and other animals employed the majority of the women. Some of the women wanted to work on the bear from start to finish. Some wanted to hand stitch the bear and its clothes while others wanted to machine stitch the bear and its clothes. A few of the women just wanted to cut and organize material and not stitch. Some wanted to clean up after others, some wanted to box and ship. Cori was the one who thought up most of the patterns then she used people to take her ideas and put them into patterns for the new products. Cori was also the one who thought up the story ideas. After the story was created, some of her women typed and published the stories for each bear. When the bear or other animal was ordered, the person who placed the order chose a general subject for the book along with the size of the bear and the clothing it would wear.

Their mail order business was growing because of the web page designed by one of the early occupants at Hannah's House who had now gone to have a new life. Others had taken her place. Teddybearville was not advertised but still had become very busy. Warm Comforts had a website that directed people to Teddybearville. Even though it was March, they were already getting Christmas orders for stuffed bears.

As was Cori's daily habit, she walked the floor and talked with the women who worked and lived with her. Behind her back, the women called her the little mama but Cori didn't mind. She wanted these women safe and growing in confidence just like a mother would about her children. John, Cori's brother, was the chief legal counsel for Warm Comforts but he was also the legal advisor for the women who came to Hannah's House and he was also the person who kept on the police to arrest and prosecute the abusers of these women.

When Cori's walk on the factory floor was completed, she went to the restaurant to check on Nia and the employees there. Once satisfied that all was okay there, she moved to the other store to check with Faith. Both of her friends had given up other careers to return to Catesville to run her businesses and they made a terrific team.

"Hi Cori" Faith greeted as Cori entered from the rear of the store. "How's things?"

"Busy, busy from what I saw. I reviewed the orders last night and it looks promising for a good year. How are you doing in here?"

"I have fifteen signed up for your tweens craft class. I have ten signed up for your kiddie craft class and I have five signed up for your designing class. For your cooking classes, I have ten for each night for four nights."

Cori grimaced good-naturedly "I agreed to all that."

"Yes you did my friend. Also, you are doing a five minute speech during career day at the high school and we are doing a booth at the county fair on Saturday."

"Career day is Friday and the booth is Saturday, right?"

"That would be correct but your part of the booth is minimal. You've made your bear for submission to the judges and all you have to do is present it and then leave if you want too."

"I'll see how my day shapes up. Does Pearl have all of this stuff on my calendar?"

"I uploaded it to her this morning and received a confirmation email. Your PDA should be up to date."

"Thanks for keeping me focused. You know my brain."

"Don't go there friend. If you want me to lose my temper and curse that man again in public I will but do not ever blame yourself."

"I don't." Cori smiled. "It is just a fact now." Due to the many times she had been knocked unconscious and suffered concussions, Cori's memory was not very good. She had to make lists and more lists. Everything was on her schedule on her PDA.

"Also, Millie Reynolds called and she said to tell you that she is not feeling well again and cannot meet you for dinner tonight."

"I'll go see her and help her if possible."

"I had no doubts about that. That too is on your schedule."

"Thanks Faith. I'm going up to my office, I'm sure I have work to do there."

"You always do." laughed Faith. Cori laughed with her and left the store to return to her office. Pearl gave her some messages and she sat down to work on her designs and return phone calls.

After work that evening, Cori knocked on the door of Millie Reynolds' house and waited for the housekeeper to answer the door.

"Hi Cori"

"Hi Joycelyn. How's Millie?"

"She's resting here in the living room; she'll be thrilled to see you."

Cori entered the house and walked to Millie who was lying on the couch. "Hi Millie"

"Hi Cori. I'm sorry to miss dinner again."

"I understand. How are you feeling?"

"Weak and tired."

"And the doctor says what?"

"I don't go to doctors."

"You need too. Doctor Jane would take good care of you. Wouldn't Micah tell you to go to the doctor?"

Millie waved the comment away nonchalantly "What Micah doesn't know won't get me in trouble."

"I have his email address." Cori countered

"I'm sure you do." sassed Millie. "Anyway, it will pass in a few days. My Seth and my Mindy are coming for the weekend. Isaac is coming along with Seth's fiancée."

"Seth has a fiancée?"

"I don't think she is right for him but I'm reserving judgment for now. He should marry and have kids. I'd like you to be my daughter-in-law."

"Married to whom? Micah is married to Tish."

"That leaves Seth though."

"Seth chose a long time ago to think I was more worthless than used gum stuck on his shoe. You can forget the daughter-in-law part. Besides, didn't you just say he has a fiancée?"

"He's not married yet." Millie said hopefully. "I have time to change your mind."

"Too much time has passed and too many painful memories. Let this go. My friendship with you is just as good."

"Why are you friends with an old woman like me?"

"Because I love you and I love Micah."

"But not Seth?"

"I don't want to talk about Seth. I want to know about you. Tell me you'll go to the doctor, please."

"Maybe" Millie agreed half-heartedly. Cori disagreed with her but couldn't change her mind too definitely. After a few minutes, Cori could tell that Millie was weary so she kissed the cheek of her friend and left the house to return to Hannah's House and the work she needed to accomplish that night.

Chapter 4

"How much farther to Grandma's house, Uncle Seth?" Mindy Reynolds asked for the fourth time in the less than three hour trip from Houston to Catesville. Seth looked into the rearview mirror at his niece buckled into her car seat.

"Not that long, sugar. Are you anxious to see Grandma?"

"I want to show her my bear from Daddy." She said holding up the bear again. Isaac burst out laughing from the other side of the backseat. Seth glanced around and glared at his friend. That bear had driven Seth crazy all week. No one on Seth's staff had been able to find the website to buy one of those bears and Micah had not answered his email to tell him where the bear originated from. He was dreaming about bears and thinking about bears all day and all night. He'd even tried to leave that cute but frustrating bear at home but Mindy grabbed it on their way out the door and held it where he could see it the whole trip.

"Grandma will love it." Seth returned. "She likes bears."

"I know. She gots whole bunches in her bedroom. I seen them before."

"You saw them before." Seth corrected.

"That's what I said." Mindy continued "But mine is cutest, don't you think so Uncle Seth?"

"Yes, of course. I just love it." He said through gritted teeth. Daphne and Isaac shared a look then laughed out loud. "And you two can walk home." Seth grumbled.

"It is just a cute bear, Seth" teased Isaac "why are you being so mean to it?"

"Some friend you are, why haven't you found any information on this bear?"

"Have you asked your Mom, maybe Micah sent one to her too? Or asked her where he could get a stuffed bear for Mindy?"

"She hasn't been very talkative this week so I let it go. I'll ask this weekend."

"How much farther to Grandma's house, Uncle Seth?" Mindy asked for the fifth time.

"About five minutes, sugar."

"Yippee" Isaac and Mindy yelled together. Seth smiled and shook his head in exasperation.

"You, Isaac Walters, are a bigger kid that she is."

"I work for a toy company, that's allowed." Isaac said smugly back to Seth.

"Wow" he pointed to Isaac "those buildings are finally finished and operational it looks like." Seth pointed to the hotel looking structure and warehouse buildings on the highway leading to Catesville. "A hotel, a warehouse, a restaurant and a craft store. Interesting. Hannah's House, Hannah's Crafts, Warm Comfort Foods and Warm Comforts. Whose is that? Find out for me, will you Isaac?"

"Sure. Why do you care?"

"I'm just curious."

"I'll investigate when we get to your mother's house."

"Thanks" Seth pulled onto the main street of town and as usual when he drove this street was swamped by the memories of childhood. His childhood had been perfect, he was popular, a star athlete in several sports, he'd gotten a scholarship to the University of Texas. His parents had never divorced and had lived in the same house all of their marriage. Seth had started on higher education track but decided it wasn't for him so he moved back to Houston where he had started as an accountant in the small toy company of Beaches Toy Company and the owner had like him so he groomed him to take over the business and that's how he became CEO of the toy company. Seth had taken some chances and expanded it to the third largest toy company in the America's. He was proud of his work. As he pulled in front of his mother's house, his mind came back to the present.

Since Friday's workday at the production factory was only half day, Cori worked for a while at the craft shop on organizing and showcasing her stuffed bears in Teddybearville. She had already drawn the layouts for the booth at the county fair and Faith was there now running the booth. Cori's speech at the high school had gone well. Tomorrow was the judging of the craft projects.

"Allison" Cori called to one of the woman running the store while Faith was at the fair.

Allison came to where Cori had been working and perused the setup. "It is perfect as usual Cori. You can just see this stuff in your mind, can't you?"

"It's pretty loser like, huh? I can't tell you what I'm supposed to do in an hour without my schedule but I can organize a whole city of stuffed bears."

"Knock it off - what are you always telling your new arrivals?"

"Don't open the door to your apartment."

"Besides that, goofy."

"Never venture out alone."

"I give up with you" groaned Allison good-naturedly. "You told me on the night I arrived that I was somebody and I was the somebody that you needed to help you distribute love to whomever needed it. That's what you do, Cori and Teddybearville is perfect."

"Thanks, Allison." Cori said clasping her arm gently. "I'm going to visit a sick friend but if you need me, call."

"Got it" answered Allison as she returned to the counter to inventory buttons. She watched Cori leave through the backdoor and saw her drive away.

At Millie Reynolds' house, Joycelyn welcomed Cori inside.

"How is she?"

"She's anxious for Seth to get here but I'm trying to keep her resting."

"I'll just stay a minute."

"Stay as long as you want, she likes your company."

Cori found Millie resting on the sofa in the living room. "Hi Millie"

"Cori! You look beautiful."

"Beautiful?" Cori scoffed "Are you trying to get on my good side?"

Millie frowned and shook her finger at Cori for putting herself down. "I may be old but I can still turn you over my knee for sassing me, Miss Cori."

"You'll need all your strength for dealing with Seth and Mindy this weekend. So, just let me off with a short lecture."

"I'll call your mama instead and then you'll have to deal with her."

"Mama is busy today."

"New arrival?" Millie suddenly sobered.

"Yeah, two kids and a mama, all in bad shape. Doctor Jane wanted to hospitalize them but they were too scared. Mama is watching over them."

"I could go help her." Millie volunteered. "I feel better today."

"Your company is coming today. Enjoy them."

"I do. Pearl stopped by a little while ago with some food stuff from Warm Comforts, been experimenting again have we?"

Cori laughed "I have no idea what you are talking about but the peanut butter chocolate chunk cookies were a big hit at the high school this morning."

"No doubt. The soup smelled delicious too."

"It isn't bad." Cori remarked. Before she could say anything else, the doorbell rang and she instantly froze then relaxed but Millie caught it anyway. For some reason the doorbell was a trigger for Cori and she had a rush of memories. "Oh, that's your company, I'll scoot out the back door."

"You will not." Millie said clamping onto Cori's arm. Cori tried to break away gently but Mindy managed to do it for her as she burst into the room.

"Grandma" she cried flinging herself into Millie's arms for a hug. "Look at my bear" Mindy continued. Cori backed away from the sofa and headed slowly at the back door. She didn't look anywhere but at Millie but knew that the room occupants were watching her.

Millie greeted her son when Mindy stepped away "Hi Seth."

"Hi Mom."

"Hi Isaac" greeted Millie when he came to hug and kiss her cheek.

"Hi Mom"

"Hello Daphne, it is nice to see you again."

"Thank you, Millie."

"Isaac, Daphne, please meet my friend Cori." Millie said automatically stopping Cori's retreat to the back door.

"Hello" Cori greeted

"Hi Cori" Daphne greeted.

"Hi Cori" Isaac said walking over to shake her hand. "It is a pleasure to meet you."

"The pleasure is mine." Cori said politely. "I need to be going. I'll see you next week, Millie."

"Did you see my bear?" Mindy said to Cori

"I did. He's really cute. What's his name?"

"My daddy sent him to me so I named him Micah."

"Good choice. You take good care of him, okay?"

"I will." Mindy answered going back to playing with her bear. Still never having made eye contact with Seth, Cori waved goodbye to Millie and Joycelyn walked her to the door.

"Call me if she needs me, okay?" Cori whispered to Joycelyn. The housekeeper nodded and Cori slipped out the door as quickly and quietly as possible. Cori realized as she walked next door to her brother's house that her heart was pounding and she was having trouble breathing. She knocked and slipped into the kitchen door and rested at the table for a minute before Pearl came to see who was in her house.

"Hey you, what's wrong?"

"What makes you think something is wrong?" Cori asked quietly.

"Don't lie to me Cori Alyssa Lewis."

"It will pass." Cori admitted.

"Get in the car, I'm taking you to the doctor."

"I'm fine, really. Just a bad memory caught me off guard."

"Oh alright. Why don't you go upstairs and lay down?"

"I'm actually going to head home. The rest of my day is clear but tomorrow is busy. And I have a few sketches to work on. I have a new idea."

"Of course you do." chuckled Pearl. "Do you ever relax?"

"That is my relaxing, Pearl." Cori explained. "Are you and John going to the fair tomorrow?"

"Absolutely. We want to see you win your third blue ribbon."

"We'll see." Cori said quietly. Pearl shook her head in exasperation. Cori gave Pearl a hug and headed out the door to her car. As she backed out of the driveway, she saw Seth retrieving luggage from his car but he didn't see her for which she was very grateful. Too bad Roger's abuse hadn't blocked out Seth's taunts of her for all of their high school years. It was really unfair, if she had to have memory problems why could she pick and choose the memories.

Seth's mind was occupied as he walked down the hall of his boyhood home to see his mother again before going to sleep. Mindy had kept them occupied during the evening but now he wanted to time with his mom. His mind though couldn't stop replaying the afternoon's meeting with Cori Lewis. They hadn't even been civil enough to one another to say Hello. He thought he had matured past that but he guessed that neither one of them had matured that much in twelve years. He wondered why she even still lived in Catesville. His mom never talked about her over the last few years and he, of course, never mentioned or asked about her.

"Hi Mom" greeted Seth as he opened the door after knocking and hearing her Come in.

"Hi Sweetheart."

"Let's talk, you and me..." he said sitting in a chair he pulled up next to her bed. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine."

"Mom, you don't look so fine. What does the doctor say? Have you been to a doctor?"

"What for? I'm just a little tired. I am old, you know."

"Schedule an appointment with the doctor next week or I'll take you to a doctor in Houston with or without your consent."

"You are nagging just like Cori does. I don't need a doctor."

"What was she doing here anyway?" he asked with a slight sneer.

"Don't." his mother said angrily "You may hate that girl but she's my very good friend. She calls or comes by every day to see me. She's wonderful to me and I love her very much. In my house, she is forever welcome."

"Okay, okay, calm down" Seth said retreating "I didn't know all that. You haven't mentioned her still living here."

"To you? Never. I know you hate her and she knows you think of her as worthless as used gum stuck to your shoe but I like her and I'll do anything in this world for that girl."

"I don't hate her. I haven't thought about her in years. Has she lived here all this time?"

"She came back about four years ago."

"I'm surprised. She high-tailed it out of here so soon after graduation that I figured she would never return."

"Life happens, Seth."

"Yeah, I guess it does. We better get some sleep; Mindy saw the fairgrounds and wants to go to the fair tomorrow. Will you be okay without us for a few hours?"

"Of course. Good night Seth, I love you."

"I love you too, Mom."

Cori smiled and accepted the congratulations and the blue ribbon from the judge at the fair on Saturday morning. She had believed that her project was the cutest but she didn't know if the judges would agree. As she walked along the fair back to Warm Comforts and Hannah's Craft booths, people stopped and cooed over the bear and how cute he was. She graciously thanked them and told them where to look if they wanted to see more.

As Cori's approach to Hannah's Craft's booth, Faith looked up and smiled at her. "I knew it." Faith said confidently as Cori slipped in behind the counter of the booth. "First place again."

Cori shrugged and handed the bear to Faith to display on the front counter. "Is it wrong for me to have mine judged since this my job?"

"If they had a problem with it they should put it in the rules."

"True. Anyway, how's business?"

"Brisk. We will need to restock inventory after this weekend."

"Good. I like to hear that."

Faith and Cori went to assist some customers who had walked up to the booth so they couldn't continue their conversation but Faith knew Cori was pleased with her win.

"Uh, Seth" Isaac said stopping Seth's forward momentum through the fair. "What does that say over there?"

"Good grief, Isaac, you are a Harvard graduate and a lawyer, can't you read a simple....?" Seth stopped his question when he finally read the words on the sign across the aisle from where they were standing.

"Look, it's my bear" Mindy exclaimed and started pulling on Isaac's hand that she was holding. "Please can we go look?"

"Definitely, Mindy. Most definitely." Seth answered. Daphne had been looking at a booth when Seth pulled her hand in the direction of the Hannah Craft's booth.

"Geez, Seth, slow down."

"Oh, sorry. Look..." he pointed to the Teddybearville sign and booth.

"Oh, that's hysterical. You've been after that bear for a week and here it is."

"Grrr" he growled playfully at her.

"Now you even sound like it." laughed Daphne. Seth was not as amused as she was as they approached the booth. "Isn't that Cori from yesterday?"

"Yes" Seth answered succinctly.

"Hello" Faith greeted as they approached the booth. "Well, Seth Reynolds, what are you doing here?"

"Faith Harris. What are you doing here?"

"My job." Faith answered hoping that Cori would stay occupied for a while. "Can I help you with something?"

"I have one of these bears." Mindy stated happily. "My daddy gave it to me."

"You are the luckiest girl in the world then. Our bears are the best. Which book did you get?"

"Ummm" she began "Snowflake...."

"Finds a Friend" finished Seth for his niece when she stalled on the title. "Is this your company?" he asked Faith.

"I have a big part but no, it isn't my company."

"Who is the owner?"

"Warm Comforts is the parent company."

"That warehouse out on the highway?" asked Isaac.

"That's us. I guess you saw it on your drive in."

"We did. It's huge."

"Good business" Faith answered. She saw Cori glance over out of the corner of her eye. Cori surprised her by coming to talk to Isaac.

"How's Millie today?"

"She said she was okay but tired this morning."

"I'm glad to hear it." Cori answered thankfully then turned to the little girl "Hi Mindy."

"Hi Cori. Look, it's my bear" she said pointing to the bear with the blue ribbon. "Only bigger."

"You are very right. Do you want to come with me and I'll show you some of the other bears and animals we have? Ask your Uncle Seth if it is okay."

"Uncle Seth, please?" she pleaded.

"Sure" he answered. "Go ahead."

"Come on, Isaac, you come too."

"Okay, little miss." Isaac laughed and followed Mindy and Cory. Cory picked up Mindy to see the bears at the top of the display at the Teddybearville in the back of the booth. They were dressed as baseball players and were having a baseball game. The field was perfectly proportioned and designed. It was adorable.

"That's fantastic" exclaimed Isaac. "Somebody did a wonderful job" he said inspecting it very close. "I want the whole setup."

"Umm" began Cory "that's the display model but you can order it."

"Perfect" he said.

"Do you have children, Isaac?" Cory asked.

"Just help with this one" he said tickling Mindy as she reached for him. "Seth keeps her while her parents are deployed."

"I know. Micah and I are old friends. As kids, we lived next door to each other."

"And Seth?"

Cori nodded "Someday, ask him about the girl he thought was more worthless than used gum stuck to the bottom of his shoe. It's quite a story."

"It doesn't sound like a good one though."

"It is from his perspective." added Cory. "Let me write up an order for you." Cory got a piece of paper and wrote out his order. He noticed that her hand gripped the pencil in a strange way but didn't comment on it. "Do you want a book with each bear, in other words, nine of them or just one about baseball?"

"Nine separate books?"

"Yes, each has a different story."

"I want all nine then. Who writes the stories?"

"Various people" she answered vaguely. "Faith will ring this up. She takes a deposit then charges the account again when the bears are shipped. Is that okay?"

"Of course." He answered as they walked back to the counter. "Seth, go see that baseball display." Isaac pointed to the Teddybearville. "I'm ordering it." Seth walked away with Daphne and Cori talked to Faith about what he had ordered. Faith finished the order form and wrote down his shipping information then took his payment information. After handing him his receipt and copy of the order form, Cori shook his hand.

"Thank you, Isaac."

"Thank you, Cori." Seth and Daphne returned about that time and Mindy reached for her Uncle Seth.

"I want all of them, Uncle Seth." She said pointing to the whole display. Seth frowned at Cori who smiled and shrugged at him.

"Of course you do, little miss. But it won't be today. Are you ready to move on?"

"Do we have too?" she whined.

"Aren't you hungry?"

"Yes" she remembered.

"Do you see any food here?"

"Right there" she pointed to the booth next door. "I smell cookies"

"After you eat your lunch."

"Yes, sir."

"Good afternoon, ladies." Seth said as the four of them moved on.

Cori took a deep breath as they moved on. Seth didn't seem like the same guy from high school. She had tried to forget how handsome he was and seeing him again reminded her.

"He doesn't seem like the same jerk as high school." Faith commented "And Isaac? That guy is spectacular."

"I hope we all have changed from high school, Faith."

"Me too. And speaking of high school, the reunion is in a few weeks. We are going."

"Have fun."

"No, you misunderstood. We, you and me and Nia, are going. I already sent the RSVP and bought the tickets."

"I'm sure I'm on call that night."

"I'm sure you are not. I arranged it with your mother."

Cori's eyes were wide with shock "it is my schedule, you can't rearrange it."

"I already did. So you have no excuse."

"Faith, I can't go to that reunion. I won't."

"Yes, you will." Faith returned. A customer joined them so their argument would have to continue another time.

Seth was enjoying a relaxing spring evening on his mother's back porch when Isaac exited out the kitchen door and joined him. Mindy and his mother were watching a movie and Daphne was talking to her mother on the phone.

"Hey" Isaac greeted.

"Hey" answered Seth.

"So, now you know...what's your next step?"

Not even pretending to not understand Seth replied "Don't you mean, what is your next step?"

"I figured you'd head that way. Okay, I did a small bit of research. Warm Comforts is the parent company and the link to Teddybearville is on their website."

"Whose is the owner of Warm Comforts?"

"That is going to take some digging. There was no message from a CEO or anything and so I'll have to investigate next week."

"Quickly. I have deadlines."

"I know. So, tell me about Cori? She told me she was friends with Micah but not you. She told me to ask you the story on the girl who you thought was more worthless than used gum stuck to the bottom of your shoe. And I'm not making that up."

Seth rubbed his hands over his face in frustration. "That's her house next door." Seth started pointing to the house on the right "her brother lives there now. Cori, John, Micah and I went to the same schools all the way through high school. Cori and I are in the same class and we did get along in grade school but in junior high she started to bug me."

"How?"

"Just by breathing it seemed like."

"Were you a jerk about it?"

"You've never seen worse, and I'm not proud of that."

"Did she tease you, torment you, what?"

"She was smarter than me. She was talented and I needed to feel important."

"So you teased her?"

"Worse. I taunted and laughed at her and had the popular kids join in with me. She took it all and never said a word to me about it until just before high school graduation. One afternoon, she came over and handed me a manila envelope and told me that she had written down all the insults over the last four years and they totaled four hundred and eight-five. If I got to five hundred before she left in two weeks, she would give me the revised list. Two weeks later she sent me the revised list and a note that said she was disappointed in me that I had only reached four hundred and ninety. Then she signed it Love, Cori. I never saw her again until yesterday."

"She didn't speak to you yesterday or today."

"Would you?"

"No." Isaac stated "You were a jerk."

"I know. Mom says she comes by or calls her every day."

"When she spoke of Micah, she seemed...." Isaac paused looking for the right word.

"They always got along. Way better than she and I did."

"Was she cute back then?"

"She hasn't changed much except for that scar on her cheek. She hasn't gained any weight either."

"You seemed to know that Faith person too?"

"She was in my graduating class and she's always been friends with Cori."

Isaac teased "I'll be calling her frequently for an update on my order."

"How do you know she's available?"

"No ring" Isaac answered.

Seth laughed "Good luck then."

"I think Millie needs a visit next weekend too."

"How about two weeks? My high school reunion is then; maybe I'll come for it."

"I'll be packed and ready to go." Isaac teased. Both men laughed and enjoyed the rest of the evening.

Chapter 5

Cori smiled and shook the hand of television host. The interview had gone well and they had promised her anonymity. They had recorded film all over the housing complex, the warehouse and the restaurant. At all times, Cori walked with them and made sure that no faces of anybody were seen. It was too great a risk for her women.

"We appreciate this Cory. Your facility is amazing."

"I appreciate you giving it a good story. Unfortunately, there is a great need in this state for our services."

"You are correct. We have to head out but it should air tomorrow night on the ten o'clock news."

Cori nodded and spoke "Thank you for coming." She waited until the news crew was on the highway again before she relaxed her guard. _I am glad that's over._ Cori thought to herself as she re-entered the housing complex and went to find her mother.

"You were fabulous, Cori." Her mother said as they hugged.

"No, Mom. I was scared to death."

"Well, you didn't show it."

"Thanks." Cori answered. "I'm going to go for a run and see Millie at the same time. I'll meet you at John's for dinner. I stashed my bag in your car so I can change clothes."

"Alright, be safe."

"I will. I time my run with the sheriff's patrols, remember."

"I know but caution never hurts."

"See you later."

Cori's mother, Frances, waved goodbye to her youngest child before heading towards the rooms of their latest arrivals to change their bandages and help them with food for the evening.

It took three days but Isaac finally had the information that Seth wanted on Warm Comforts. Seth had nagged him hourly until he finally stopped answering his phone calls. Isaac's assistant handed him the folder then left the office.

He had hired an investigator to do most of the work because he was involved with other duties and now he finally had the report. After opening the folder, he started to read then burst out laughing when he finally read the name of the owner. Seth was not going to believe this.

Seth's phone rang just once when Isaac called him "What's up?" Seth questioned.

"Are you available?"

"Yep, just reading some reports."

"I'm on my way." Isaac hung up then picked up the folder from his desk. He stopped and had his assistant make a quick copy then walked across the hall to Seth's office. Abigail directed him on in. He tried to keep the smile off his face but he doubted that he was successful.

"Aren't you looking like the cat that ate the canary?" Seth commented at the cheesy grin on Isaac's face. "Knock it off, it is creepy."

"Just read the stupid report." Isaac grumbled handing Seth one of the copies. Seth took the report and flipped to the first page and began to read. He was delighted that it was the information on Warm Comforts that he needed.

"You got it." Seth breathed a sigh of relief. He could now work on the next phase.

"Keep reading." Isaac encouraged without looking up from his copy. He only had to wait a few more seconds until Seth got to the interesting part.

Seth gasped "oh my word, that little fraud..." he grumbled "Cori Lewis is a fraud. She knew that was her bear that Mindy showed her. She was working that booth like she was an employee not the owner."

"Why didn't your mother say anything?"

"Because Cori is her friend. Maybe another trip to Catesville is in order after all. I was taking the next two days off anyway."

"I'm free, let's go in the morning."

"Deal. Mindy has a doctor's appointment in the morning first thing and then I'll swing by to pick you up. Stay until Monday?"

"At least."

"See you in the morning."

"Tonight. Mindy has t-ball tonight."

"I doubt it. She had a slight temperature this morning."

"Where is she?"

Seth pointed to his second office. "She's sleeping."

"Do you want me to take her home?"

"I'm leaving shortly anyway. I just wanted to read this report while she slept." Isaac nodded and headed out the door. Seth finished reading the report on Warm Comforts then went to check on his niece.

Her temperature seemed to be normal again but she was still sleeping. Seth gathered up her blanket, bear and then her as he headed out the door.

"See you or talk to you on Monday." He whispered to Abigail. She nodded and waved goodbye. Mindy slept all the way home in the car but she woke up when he stopped the car in the garage.

"Uncle Seth"

"Hey cutie, how do you feel?"

"I don't know."

"Well, I'm going to fix you some soup and read you a story before you go to sleep. And tomorrow, we are going to see Grandma again for a few days."

"Okay" she answered slowly as she laid her head against his shoulder again. "I love you, Uncle Seth."

"I love you too, you are my best girl."

Seth and Isaac decided to not call for an appointment with Cori at Warm Comforts; Seth was going to try to appeal as an old friend to see her. They dropped Mindy off with Grandma for the afternoon and headed to Hannah's Crafts store. In their research they had learned that Hannah's Crafts and the restaurant were all part of Warm Comforts so they headed there first.

"Hi Faith" Isaac greeted when they entered the craft store early afternoon on Thursday. He had called her a couple of times during the previous three days to check on his order but also to talk to her.

"Hi. What are you doing here?" she questioned both Isaac and Seth.

"I want to see Cori." Seth answered.

"Did you drive all the way from Houston to see Cori? You wasted your time."

"Why?"

"Cori's busy."

"She's a fraud." retorted Seth unknowingly setting a spark to Faith's temper.

"Get out. Now!" Faith exploded pointing to the door "Both of you. Get out and if I see you here again, I'm calling the sheriff."

"Whoa" Seth tried to soothe "I'm sorry. I just meant that she pretended to be an employee instead of the owner at the fair the other day."

"I don't care what you meant. I meant get out of this store."

"I have some business with Cori." Seth countered. "It is important."

"Does this involve your mother?"

"No, it is business."

"Then it doesn't involve Cori."

"This is her company isn't it?" Faith nodded. "Then I have business with her."

Faith stepped away from the counter to the phone behind her and made a call. A customer walked in and Faith went to help them leaving Seth and Isaac waiting at the counter. Before she could return, Seth heard his name being called.

"Seth Reynolds, are you taking up crafts?"

"Hi John, no I'm not. I want to see Cori."

"You get to see me instead. Come with me." John said leading them to a back room "this is the craft teaching room but it will do for you to tell me what you want."

"This is my chief legal counsel and friend, Isaac Walters. Isaac, this is John Lewis, Cori's brother."

"Pleasure to meet you." greeted John and Isaac returned the greeting. "Sit down if you want too."

Seth sat and began his business. "John, I want to meet with Cori. I want her bears and other animals in my Christmas catalogue and marketed under Beaches Toys."

"It won't happen."

"Let me talk to Cori and make it happen."

"It is a waste of your time and hers. She won't do it."

"I still want to present my plan to her."

"I can try to schedule you some time with her in a few weeks but I'm telling you she won't meet with you or put her products with you."

"I want to hear from her why she won't. I can present my plan tomorrow or Monday."

John pulled out his phone and checked Cori's calendar. She had a free spot in the morning. "I'll tentatively schedule you for nine in the morning but if she says no, I'll call and cancel on you. But I'm telling you that it is a waste of time."

"We'll be here." Seth said rising and shaking John's hand. He handed him a business card with his phone number on it. "You probably don't need this since you know where I'll be staying but if you need to call, here's the number."

"It would be faster to walk next door." John teased. Seth shrugged and laughed as John continued "Go next door to the restaurant and have a piece of pie on Cori. It is the only thing you will get from her."

Isaac smiled "I love pie."

"You are a bottomless pit." Seth grumbled. John laughed. "John, thank you and we will see you tomorrow."

"Maybe" he answered showing the men back through the shop. Isaac stopped to talk to Faith quickly before heading out the door with Seth.

"What do they really want?" Faith asked John when they were out of range.

"Seth wants Cori's stuffed animals for Beaches Toys."

"Poor Seth. He is in for a rude awakening."

"He is going to pitch his plan to her at nine in the morning."

Faith winced then joked. "He only remembers the Cori from high school. He hasn't met the new version."

"She may not even agree to the meeting." John stated heading back out the door and up to his office. He was surprised when he told Cori of Seth's idea and she actually agreed to the meeting. John had Pearl call Seth's phone and confirm the meeting time.

Seth went to his mother's home and spent the afternoon with Mindy playing Chutes and Ladders and Candyland as Isaac worked on the final details of the presentation. About dinnertime, Joycelyn had him run back to Warm Comforts to pick up her take out order. When Seth arrived, he saw Cori sitting in a corner booth but bent over the table working on something.

"You are a fraud." He said quietly from behind her. She didn't acknowledge him in anyway so he spoke at the same time he sat down across from her in the booth. "You are a fraud, Cori Lewis." Cori jumped and let out a small screech of surprise. Her hand flew to her chest.

"You scared me to death."

"Sorry. You didn't hear me the first time."

"Oh, sorry. What are you doing in Catesville?"

Seth was surprised by the question "We have a meeting in the morning."

Cori consulted her calendar on the PDA. She had already forgotten John mentioned it to her. She improvised an answer "I'm a little tired today, I just forgot. Why did you call me a fraud?"

He pointed at her but wasn't really showing any anger. "You knew Mindy was showing you your own bear and then at the fair you worked as an employee instead of the owner." Cori bit her lip to keep from laughing.

"Does it really matter?" she asked with a smile. Seth contemplated her question for a moment and then shook his head no.

"What are you working on?" he asked pointing to the pages in front of her. She quickly turned them over.

"Just doodling while my food cooks. Why are you here?"

"Picking up dinner and dessert." He said sniffing the air and smelling apple pie.

"How is Millie?"

"I'm trying to get her into see a doctor but she is being stubborn." Cori nodded in agreement. "You've tried too I take it."

"I even threatened to tell Micah on her."

Seth laughed at the thought. "I may just make an appointment and drag her without her consent."

"She would have done that to you as a kid so now it is your turn."

"Good point." He agreed then the waitress called his name. "Ah, my dinner. I'll see you in the morning Miss Lewis." Cori looked at him confused again. "Our meeting?" he questioned again. Once again Cori consulted her PDA.

"Yes, nine am. Good evening, Mr. Reynolds." Cori stated. Her waitress was bringing her food at the same time so she turned to thank her and missed Seth's confused glance at her.

As he returned to his car, he wondered how she could forget a meeting they had talked about a few minutes prior. He watched her through the window go back to the "doodling" she was doing instead of eating her food. No wonder she is a stick. Seth thought to himself as he pulled out of the parking lot and headed home.

Cori sat with her mother in her mother's apartment at Hannah's House and watched the story on Hannah's House that night. She watched and listened and hoped they got the story right. Cori was pleased that they hadn't given her real name and that her face was blacked out during the one on one interview. During the footage of the housing complex and the other buildings, Cori was behind the camera and so only her disguised voice was heard.

"Mom, don't cry. This isn't news to you." Cori argued.

"I know but it is still hard to hear. You are my girl and you were hurt for so long."

"It is over, Mom. It will never happen again."

"I know." Frances said blowing her nose. "It was a great piece. I'm proud of you."

"Thanks. Now, I'm going to bed. It was a long day."

"Good night, daughter."

"Good night, Mom. Sleep well. Good dreams."

At Millie Reynolds' house across town, Millie was watching the news with her son and Isaac and she didn't even try to stop the tears as she listened to the story about Hannah's House. She felt so sorry for her friend, Cori and all that she had endured during her marriage. Millie's marriage had been so full of love and happiness but Cori's had not been. Cori had not told her all of the details of her marriage but she had told her mother, Frances, enough of them and Frances had shared a few with Millie.

"That's Catesville." Seth exclaimed as the beginning of the story started. "That's Hannah's House."

"Shhh" Millie grumbled. Seth sat forward in his chair as did Isaac. They listened intently to the piece on the news. It was enlightening. Millie didn't recognize the voice in the interview but she assumed it was Cori. Never in the piece did they mention the name of the place but at the end, the announcer encouraged those who needed this sanctuary to go to their local police and they knew about this wonderful place or to call the number listed on the screen if they had a crisis.

After the story was over, Millie dried her tears. When she looked up, Seth and Isaac were watching her closely. She started to rise from her recliner but Seth pointed at her to sit back down.

"Explain please. Was that Cori?"

"I didn't see, Cori."

"Don't evade, Mom. That looked like Hannah's House as you drive into town."

"It was." Millie answered "I would assume that was Cori only it wasn't her voice."

"It was electronically distorted." Isaac interjected. "Why does Cori have a house for abused women?"

"Isaac, I love you like a son but I won't give you that explanation. It is Cori's business and only Cori will tell you." She rose from her chair and left the gentlemen in the living room wondering about Cori Lewis.

Isaac rose from the couch "Well, we can't solve this mystery tonight. I'm going to bed."

"Me too. But I'm really confused now."

"Yeah, me too."

Seth watched Cori's face as he made his presentation the next morning. She had no expression either good or bad as he went along. She glanced at the proposal when he mentioned something about it. At the end of his presentation he asked her if she had any questions.

"I don't have any questions, Mr. Reynolds. I appreciate your wanting to meet with me and your presentation is excellent."

"I think we could have a good business together."

"Faith and John both told me that they told you that I wouldn't agree to this. They are correct. I won't agree to this."

"Will you tell me why?"

"You'll just have to live with my no. Thank you for your hard work on the presentation." She said rising from her chair. Cori moved to shake hands with both Isaac and Seth then headed to her next meeting. John remained behind in the conference room.

"I'm sorry, Seth. I warned you though."

"Will she rethink it if we up the offer?"

"No, she won't. She's more likely to just get mad."

"Well, I'll give it another try probably anyway."

"It is your time to waste but it will be a waste. Let me show you out." John led the two men back through the craft store where Isaac stopped to talk to Faith again. Seth went on out to the car after shaking John's hand one more time.

"Thank you" Seth said graciously. "We appreciate your help."

Isaac didn't say much as they drove back to Seth's mother's home but he watched his friend and read the frustration. He was going to wait and see how long Seth stewed before coming up with another plan for Teddybearville and Beaches Toys.

"Hi Uncle Seth" Mindy said poking him early on Saturday morning. "It is time for pancakes." Seth rolled over in bed and tried to focus on Mindy.

"Hi cutie bug, how's my girl?" he said opening his arms to her. Mindy crawled onto the bed with him and lay next to him.

"I'm hungry. Grandma said to wake you up."

"Tell Grandma that I need to get dressed then I'll be down for breakfast. Did you wake up your friend, Isaac?"

"I did but he didn't waked up very happy so I gived him a hug."

"Good job." Seth smiled. "Go see Grandma and I'll hurry."

"Okay. Bye" she said bounding off the bed.

Seth waited until she was out of the room before crawling out of the covers. Having a four year old live with him had changed lots of his morning habits but there wasn't anything he wouldn't do for Mindy or her parents. Since both had been deployed overseas, he volunteered to be Mindy's guardian and have her live with him. Isaac had known her since birth too and she loved him as much as he loved her. The three of them made a good team. Daphne didn't understand his devotion sometimes but he hoped in time she would.

As Seth shaved, he recalled his dream from the previous night. He had dreamed of Cori dancing with him in a wedding gown. The more he recalled the more he realized that he was the groom and the dancing was at their wedding reception. He lowered the razor and thought for a moment. _Oh my word, wouldn't that be interesting. I better just keep that dream to myself_.

The pancakes smelled delicious as he jogged down the stairs and into the kitchen, he swung Mindy up in his arms and kissed her cheek. "Good morning, little miss." Mindy giggled and squirmed to get down. "Hi Mom. How are my best girls today?"

"One of us is wiggly and squiggly and one of us isn't. It is your job to figure out who is who." Millie answered accepting Seth's kiss. "And one of us wants to go see more b e a r s today."

"Hannah's is open today isn't it?" Seth questioned. Millie and Joycelyn nodded. "I say we go, what do you say Isaac?"

"I would love to see more b e a r s."

"And more of Faith?" Seth questioned.

"Definitely."

After breakfast was eaten and a messy four year old cleaned up, Seth, Isaac and Mindy drove over to Hannah's Craft to have a look at Teddybearville again.

Seth and Mindy were looking at every bear in the village that was in Hannah's Crafts when Cori emerged from the classroom in the back. "Faith, can you call Mrs. Jensen...her son dumped red paint on top of his sister's head and she is crying now because her new shirt is ruined."

"Got it." Faith chuckled reaching for the phone. As Cori turned around to go back to class, she saw Mindy and Seth. "Hi. Welcome to Hannah's. How are you Mindy?"

"Good." She answered "Why are you all red?"

"I'm teaching ten five year olds how to paint a picture. Do you want to come with me?" she offered. Mindy looked at Seth. "Can I?"

"If you want too." He answered. Mindy nodded and squirmed to get down.

"You can come too, Uncle Seth. She might need a little help."

"Probably." answered Seth. As they walked along, Cori held Mindy's hand and his dream flashed in his head again. As they entered the classroom, Seth noticed that it had been rearranged since Thursday when he was there. There were ten kids sitting on short stools in front of short easels. Every two kids had a helper.

"Everyone, this is Mindy and her Uncle Seth. They are related to Miss Millie so let's be nice to them. Helpers, he's okay." She said soothingly. "Mindy, sit right down there and Uncle Seth, why don't you put the plastic apron on over her clothes. I'll be right back." Seth noticed she went over and calmly touched each one of the women and assured them that he was okay. When she returned, she handed a few brushes to Mindy and helped her start to paint in the picture of the puppy that was on her easel. Seth noticed that she had trouble holding Mindy's hand in the correct position but he didn't understand why that would be.

One of the other little boys spilled his paint so Cori went to clean that up and Seth again watched her and noticed that her right hand didn't grip very well. Mindy asked him a question so he turned from watching Cori to help his niece and then for the rest of the class he didn't have time to notice Cori. Mindy had a ball but he was almost sure that she should have finger painted the picture instead of the using the brush and he was sure that his hair would have had less paint in it if she had.

"Very good, Mindy" Cori exclaimed when she came to see the picture. "When your picture dries I'll take it to Grandma for you, will that be okay?" Mindy nodded enthusiastically. "And Uncle Seth, the men's room is that way" she pointed down the hall "if you would like to remove the pink and purple paint from your hair."

Seth cleared his throat "Not to tell you how to do your job but next time, fingerpainting."

"As you walk down the hall, glance to your right and look at the pictures from the fingerpainting class. Then tell me your idea." She said with a smirk. Mindy went with Cori to clean up and remove her apron while Seth walked down the hall. He did stop and look at the pictures of little kids holding up hands covered in paint, oh my word - Cori was covered in paint in the back of the row of kids. He journeyed on down to the men's room and spent several minutes removing the paint from his hair. As he returned the classroom, Cori asked him a question with her eyes.

"Never mind" he muttered. Cori burst out laughing. As she did, her whole face lit up and she became radiant. She was no longer the kid he had known all his life, she was suddenly a very attractive woman and he was in serious trouble.

"Can I go get Isaac to see my picture?" Mindy asked both Seth and Cori. Cori nodded as did Seth and Mindy shot out the door calling for Isaac.

"Um, can I ask you a question?" Seth began.

"I'll let you ask two since you just asked one."

"Smarty-pants." He grumbled "Was that you on the news piece about Hannah's House the other night?"

She paused for several seconds before answering him. She looked around to make sure the room was empty then chose her words carefully. "The safety of the women at Hannah's House depends on how I answer that question."

"I realize that." Seth nodded. "Why abused women, Cori?"

Cori shook her head and didn't answer.

"Please, I want to know." He pleaded. Cori shook her head again and looked down at the floor dejectedly. An instant later she raised her head and turned to walk away. "Please, Cori, will you give me a tour of Hannah's House?"

"No" she said abruptly and stalked back to him. In a fierce whisper she explained "do you know what a recently abused woman or her abused children feel like when a man comes into her presence? They are safe in Hannah's House and I will not abuse them anymore by bringing a man into their home who might remind them of their abuser. Sorry, but no."

"I didn't think. I apologize. Please forgive me."

"Sure. Please excuse me. I have to get ready for another class in the restaurant next door. Tell your mother Hello for me. I'll see her Monday or Tuesday."

"You can visit while we are here, she would like it."

"She doesn't need me if you are here." She said pushing open the classroom door as she exited leaving him standing there. Isaac came into the room with Mindy within seconds and saw Seth standing all alone.

"Problem?" he questioned.

Seth shook his head "Idiot" he said out loud.

"You or a beautiful lady named Cori?" Isaac asked with a smirk. Seth pointed to himself. Isaac nodded then Mindy distracted him so he would look at her picture. He made the appropriate remarks as Seth stared out the door where Cori had exited.

"Is she getting to you?" Isaac whispered as Mindy looked at the bears in the window of the craft shop.

"I don't know what she is."

"And Daphne?"

"Tough question. I don't know."

"Let's have Mindy pick a present for your mother and go deliver it. After a nap, maybe a park?"

"I'm all for that idea." Seth agreed. "Mindy, shall we buy Grandma a stuffed animal or some cookies?"

"A stuffed rabbit and some cookies."

"Oh, okay. Do you know which stuffed rabbit she would like best?"

Mindy nodded and pointed to a cute little bunny wearing a pink dress and a pink hat. "She's the bestest ain't she?" Mindy asked. Seth was so preoccupied that he didn't correct her words. He just reached for Mindy to go up to the counter to pay for the rabbit. Mindy told Faith which animal she wanted and Faith wrapped it up in a big pink sack that Mindy carried to the restaurant next door. Inside she picked out the cookies she wanted for Grandma while Seth tried not to watch Cori as she taught some kids how to make chocolate chip cookies in the kitchen that adjoined the restaurant. If she saw him watching her, she did not acknowledge him and he right then didn't know how he felt about that.

"Bud, you have a big problem."

"Is she four or thirty?" Seth asked quietly but not disagreeing with his friend.

"Thirty. And she's not the woman who is wearing your ring."

"That's who I was afraid you were talking about."

"Do we need to go back to Houston?" Isaac asked. Seth threw his hands up in defeat and walked with Mindy out to his car. Isaac followed behind hoping that his friend was going to figure things out. He didn't really think Seth loved Daphne and he didn't really think Daphne loved Seth. He thought their romance was pretty cool. Isaac knew if he was engaged to someone then he wouldn't want to be spending so much time apart from her. _Heck, I barely know Faith and I don't want to be apart from her._ After he settled himself in Seth's car, they drove back to Millie's house to deliver her presents. Seth was very quiet the whole time. Millie looked at Isaac who quietly shook his head. Millie watched her son and contemplated what could be wrong.

The rest of the weekend was uneventful thankfully since Seth was very preoccupied. He tried to snap out of it and pay attention to his niece and his mother but Isaac stepped in and took up the slack. All of them made it to church on Sunday morning and Seth again saw Cori as she came to hug his mother. She spoke briefly to Mindy and waved at Isaac but Seth, she just ignored.

Before Seth left on Monday, he finally convinced his mother to make a doctor's appointment with a local doctor. He and Isaac stood guard over her on Monday morning until she called and made the appointment. His last words to her before his I love you was don't cancel that appointment. He decided to hedge his bet and call Cori.

"Warm Comforts, this is Pearl."

"May I speak with Cori Lewis please?"

"Cori is unavailable would you like to speak to John Lewis?"

"Can I leave her a voice mail message?"

"Sure, I'll put you through." Seth waited while the call transferred then left his message about his mom's doctor's appointment. As he hung up, he caught Isaac's look.

"Don't ask. I am not sure about anything. I.... I don't know what I want." Seth muttered.

"I think you do, Seth. I think you know exactly who you want but your brain is having a hard time reconciling that a girl you taunted and teased for so many years is now a gorgeous, lovely, kind woman."

"I hate it when you are right."

"My question is, is she any different now than she was in high school? Did she become this kind, lovely, gorgeous woman or was she always that way?"

"Do you want to walk to Houston?"

Isaac wanted to laugh but he knew his friend was in a quandary. "That's what I thought. You are going to have to reconcile the two things and then figure out what you are going to do with an engagement you are already in the middle of."

"I don't have to like you right now, do I?"

"Nope, but I'm still your friend."

"Thank you." Seth said quietly. He glanced at Mindy in the back seat and noticed she had fallen asleep clutching the bear that started this whole mess. "I'm going to beat the heck out of Micah when he gets home. Seriously, beat the crap out of him." Isaac laughed gently at Seth's frustration. Both men remained fairly quiet the remainder of the ride back to Houston.

Chapter 6

"I think I should go with you." Faith said to Cori "You always get lost in Houston."

"I do?" questioned Cory.

"Well, not always but you could use the company."

"Faith, you might learn things that you don't want or need to know. I've been asked to talk for quite a while."

"I want to give you support. You are my friend."

"I appreciate it. Nia might as well come too, we can have dinner before the meeting."

"Good, she wanted to come. She was going to hitch a ride in the trunk." Faith stated. Cori laughed, hugged her friend and went back to her office.

In Houston, Isaac entered Seth's office after Abigail announced him. "Hi"

"Hey" greeted Seth. "What's up?"

"I was doing some research and found this on the internet. I called and confirmed it was true." Isaac handed Seth a news article. Seth read down through it then raised his head to find Isaac nodding.

"Hannah's House founder will be the guest speaker at Houston's Community Events Center tonight at seven p.m. This will be during the time of the Women's Support Group but all are welcome to attend." Seth read out loud so he could comprehend what was written on the page.

"I can watch Mindy for you if you want to go." Isaac offered

"Actually, I'm going to ask Abigail so you can go with me."

"That works. If Abigail can't do it, I'd be glad too."

"Thanks, I'll let you know." Isaac nodded and left the room, telling Abigail that Seth needed to see her. As soon as he reached his office, Seth as was calling to say that Abigail had agreed to watch Mindy.

Cori didn't snoop out the stage curtain to see how many people were in attendance at the event. She heard lots of chatter and chairs moving but she wasn't going to think about numbers. Her main goal for these speaking engagements was to get the word out about Hannah's House and how to thrive as a survivor of spousal abuse.

"Are you ready?" Faith asked from beside Cori.

"Yep, go out there and take your seat. I'm good."

"You are going to be great."

"Thanks, now go." Cori pointed. Faith nodded and slipped out of the side door and around to her chair that Nia had saved for her. Nia handed her a bunch of tissues because they were both sure they were going to need them.

The moderator of the event stepped up to the podium. "Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for attending this very important event. Unfortunately the size of this crowd reminds us that abuse of women in our society is a big issue and we need help to solve it. Our guest speaker tonight is the founder of Hannah's House outside of Houston. She's making an impact for all, learn from her story. Please welcome, Cori."

The crowd applauded as Cori took the stage and laid her speech on the podium. She took the microphone from the stand and went to sit on the stool that was provided for her. "Good evening, my name is Cori." The response as expected was Hi Cori.

"Before I tell you about Hannah's House, I was asked to tell my story first. I'm twenty-nine years old, I had a wonderful childhood, loving parents, and a great big brother. There was absolutely no abuse in my household. I was smart and graduated from New York City University with a double major in Accounting and Art History." The crowd sort of murmured at that statement. "Yeah, I get that a lot." Cori joked.

"One time when I was home from college, I went out with a guy from my high school class to a dance. I fell in love with him that weekend and we had a long distance romance. He was in California going to school and I was in New York. We graduated the same year and eloped within a few days. See, he had just received a spot as a professional football player in another town so we didn't have time for a big wedding. I was so in love and I thought we were going to have an idyllic life. My idyllic life lasted four hours and about ten minutes. That was the length of time from when the minister pronounced us man and wife to the first time he backhanded me across the cheek."

"Now those who are guests tonight and not victims will ask the question, why didn't I leave right away? But those of you who are victims will know the answer. He apologized and swore it would never happen again." Cori paused to take a drink and a deep breath.

"My new husband and I moved to that town where he had a contract to play professional football. He soon became a huge hit in that town while I hid in our house and was isolated from everyone. How often was the abuse? Often. Does it really matter the frequency? Not really."

"I tried to leave but he would find me and bring me back home. I tried to go to the police but he was famous and no one believed he was capable of abusing his wife. If he broke a bone, he didn't care. See my hand?" She asked holding up her right hand. "I went three weeks after he smashed it before I was allowed to go to the doctor. By that time, all the doctor could do was make it work this much." She said closing her hand part way. "Again, those of you who are guests are asking yourself, why didn't the doctor report it? Well, the doctor I was allowed to see was the football team's doctor and since he was the one who was also feeding my husband the performance enhancing steroids illegally, he didn't care how my hand got broken."

"My husband was big. He was five foot eleven inches and weighed two hundred fifty to two hundred and seventy pounds. Solid muscle. The steroids helped with that. Now if you are thinking that the steroids were the cause of the abuse, well, sorry no. I know when the steroid abuse started and I know when my physical abuse started and my abuse started a long time before the steroids. But, oh, they made the abuse on me worse, I guarantee it."

"Most of the people in this town where he was famous didn't even know he had a wife and in the end that was the best thing that ever happened to me. He had plenty of women, cars, jewelry or whatever thrown at him for free. One particular jeweler designed him a ring that he wore constantly in the later part of our marriage. It wasn't all that pretty but he found out that it made a really nasty cut if he slapped me with it just right."

"I was married for almost four years. I had thirteen sets of cracked ribs, one smashed hand, an average of two concussions a year and more bruises and cuts than I could count. I have short term memory loss and I'm deaf on the right side."

"Now, I mentioned that I was smart....well, that's not completely true. In most abuse situations that I've heard about, the man keeps the woman penniless and so she has no means of escape. This is where I was stupid, I kept the finances in our marriage. I even invested his salary in my name where he didn't know about it. I had money, I could have left. But I wanted a successful marriage. I hoped every day that the abuse was over and it was a new day."

"My husband however was smart. I was allowed to have a housekeeper. I had somewhere around twenty in four years. She was hired by me after I healed from an attack but she was fired by my husband just prior to an attack so that there were no witnesses."

"That was until the end. The National Football League Commissioner finally caught my husband using the illegal steroids and he was fired from his team. He came home and I, unfortunately, was at the top of a long flight of stairs when he saw me. He backhanded me with the aforementioned ring and sliced the side of my face completely open but the force of the slap propelled me down the stairs headfirst. I landed at the bottom of the stairs bleeding, broken and unconscious. The latest housekeeper ran to investigate the noise and watched my husband step on me as he walked out the door. She called the ambulance and the police and this time the police listened because there was a witness. The police found my husband and my husband thinking he was above the law tried to outrun them and ended up wrapping his sports car around a tree and killing himself. I woke up in the hospital a widow and free."

"Since, I was a nobody and somehow, my brother convinced the press that I was not worth press coverage, very few people knew my name and my story. That was fine with me. I moved home to Texas and with the money that I'd invested, I created Hannah's House."

"First of all, it is a housing facility for those in a crisis. All of the police from a three hundred mile radius are informed of the house and bring me those in need. After the crisis and healing time has passed, my legal counsel helps the women with a new start. He works with the police to get the abuser prosecuted."

"If the woman wants to continue at Hannah's House, she is given a chance to work and make some money and earn some self-esteem. An organization entitled Warm Comforts gives her that opportunity. Their website is warmcomforts.com and they employ the women to make some comforting things for the home."

"I have women that stay for a long time and a short time. Some want my help and some don't. When they are at Hannah's House, they are safe and loved. I have several women in my community who volunteer as house mothers and honorary grandmothers."

Cori paused and took another drink of the water beside her. "I am a spousal abuse survivor. By the grace of God, I made it to today. I know there are some who won't make it to tomorrow because of their spouse or significant other. If you know them, help them and try to save their life. We all can make a difference. I'm trying, one life at a time. Thank you." Cori said standing and bowing to the audience. The moderator took the microphone from her and Cori slipped off the stage as the crowd stood to their feet to applaud her. Cori was crying and sobbing in the dressing room off the stage when Faith and Nia came to find her. The three embraced and cried for many long minutes until their tears ran dry and the tissues ran out.

"I'm sorry." Cori apologized. "I was sure I was over this part."

"How is that possible, Cori?"

"Okay, I hoped I was over this part. Let's go home."

"I'm for that. Now, aren't you glad we came so you don't have to drive with swollen eyes?"

"Yours are not much better" joked Cori weakly. Faith nodded and shrugged. As Cori opened the door, the event moderator was waiting for them. She silently hugged Cori and then with quiet words said, "Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Cori nodded and left the event with her closest friends. It was a pretty silent ride the hundred miles back to Hannah's House.

Isaac was not surprised the next morning when Abigail informed him that Seth was working from home that day and didn't want interruptions unless it was an emergency. She had tried to talk to him the night before when he arrived home but he was pale and uncommunicative. Isaac, however, wasn't going to leave Seth alone. He headed for the elevator and then his car for the short drive to Seth's house. He didn't give Seth a chance to not answer the door; he used his key and went on in.

"Isaac" Mindy called to him as he found her and Seth in the backyard.

"Hi munchkin. How are you?"

"I not go to school today."

"I see that. We have t-ball tonight though." He said kissing her on the head. "I'm going to go talk to Uncle Seth and send Beth out to watch you swing. We'll be back in a few minutes." Mindy nodded and went back to swinging. Isaac pointed to the house and Seth moved inside and to his study while Isaac sent his housekeeper Beth out to watch Mindy.

Seth was staring into the cold dark fireplace when Isaac joined him. Isaac sat a bottle of water on the mantel next to Seth and went to sit down in the chair. He was going to give Seth a few minutes to start the conversation before he did it himself. The quiet only lasted a couple of minutes before Seth took that water bottle and hurled it across the room. It broke into bits sending the water flying everywhere. Isaac went to the nearest bathroom and retrieved several towels and dried up the water and threw away the pieces of the bottle.

"I knew him. We were friends in high school but I never knew that she married him. No one ever told me. I never knew he was the lowest piece of slime that walked the earth." Seth ended shouting angrily. "I was actually proud to know him and even went to one of his football games in Seattle when he got me the tickets. Micah and I went. When he came here to play in Houston, we went out after the game. He had women with him; I never knew he was married."

Seth's voice was gruff with emotion "He beat the crap out of her and cheated on her. Did he rape her too? While she lay in bed broken, did he force her to have sex with him? Why? She never did anything in her whole life to deserve what I did to her or what he did to her?"

"Maybe she did, Seth."

"Don't you dare!" Seth rounded on him "Don't play devil's advocate with me. I'll take your head off."

"That's fine with me. But you are going to your high school reunion in a few days and she may be there. You have to be in control. She won't want your whole town to know the details of her life. She kept her voice and story anonymous on the news story last week. I doubt your mother even knows the details you now know. And Cori won't want her to know. I doubt Cori's family knows all the details you now know and she won't want them too. You can't go if you can't control yourself. You can't even speak to Cori again until you are in control."

"I know that" Seth shouted "I do. How do I get rid of this rage against that slime of a husband she had? Tell me how to do that."

"I don't know Seth. Why do you even care this much?"

"She is a human being."

"Yeah, but you never liked her before. I repeat, why do you care this much?"

"You know why." Seth shouted again.

"Yes, I do. But. Do. You?" Isaac emphasized.

Seth held his head in his hands and grumbled "How did this happen to me? I'm three months from marrying Daphne."

"You don't even love Daphne, you never did. You got along with her like you would a sister."

As he talked, Seth threw his hands in the air in defeat "I thought I loved Daphne until Saturday morning when I dreamed about Cori and I dancing at our wedding reception."

"Yikes" Isaac commiserated "but that's just a dream, it can't be real."

This time Seth point at Isaac as he shouted "Shut up, just shut up. I don't need your help to play devil's advocate. Cori is going think I've gone over the edge. How do I even begin? What do I say? When she finds out that I know her story is she going to think I'm being insincere? Is this when she takes that opportunity to turn and walk away from me like she promised she would do twelve years ago on my back porch? I started the abuse on her and that slime continued it, she'll never forgive me."

"Why do you want her too?"

Seth groaned "Don't make me say that out loud."

"You are ruining my fun." Isaac teased and for his trouble Seth lobbed a pillow from the couch at him. Isaac continued after ducking from the pillow. "Alright, alright....I have all day to watch Mindy, you have some things to do."

Seth nodded and left the room. While he showered, Isaac returned to Mindy in the backyard. Seth came out to see his niece and tell her that he would be back later in the day and that her friend Isaac was going to stay with her while he was gone. Mindy didn't care, her best buddy was going to be there with her. Isaac patted Seth on the back as he passed by to leave the backyard.

The first stop Seth made was at a florist where he ordered a dozen yellow roses to be sent to Cori at the Warm Comforts warehouse in Catesville. He just told them to sign the card with Seth.

Seth's second stop was at Daphne's house. He walked to the front door and rang the doorbell.

"Hi" Daphne greeted when she saw Seth waiting there. "Come in."

"Thanks" he said pleasantly.

"Why aren't you at work?" Daphne asked as they sat side by side on the sofa. "Is Mindy okay?"

"She's fine. I need to talk to you."

"Sure."

"Daphne, I...." he cleared his throat "I want to call off our engagement because it isn't what I want anymore."

Since he wasn't looking at her he missed the relief that briefly passed over her face. "What do you want Seth?"

"I don't want to hurt you but there is someone else maybe."

Daphne briefly chuckled "Maybe?"

Seth shrugged embarrassed "Yeah, maybe. I'm sorry it came to this point."

"I'm not" Daphne said.

Seth's head snapped around "What?"

"Take this back" Daphne said handing him the ring. "I thought I loved you but the longer this engagement went the more I realized I just like you as a friend. We would have gotten along as friends, probably but it wouldn't have been passionate."

"You aren't mad?"

"No, if this engagement isn't right for either of us then there isn't any reason to be mad. So who is the other person?"

"Cori Lewis"

Daphne laughed slightly "Oh Seth, you don't make things easy for yourself, do you?"

"Apparently not. And she may never think of me in those terms either."

"But you love her?"

"I'm going to tell that to her first when the opportunity arrives. If it arrives." He clarified. "We have a bad history."

"I gathered as much since she didn't look at or speak to you when you were both in the same house or the same craft booth."

"I never said I was very smart."

"Maybe yes, maybe no but if you have found someone to love with your whole heart, give it your best and love her with your best."

"Thanks Daphne, you deserve that too."

"I won't settle for anything less now either. Thank you for breaking up with me."

"Yeah, sure, you are welcome." He chuckled. He rose from the couch and she surprised him with a friendly hug.

"I won't come to the wedding but I still want an invitation." Daphne teased. Seth nodded and headed out the front door.

On the way back to his house he called Cori and hoped he would get to talk to her.

"Thank you for calling Warm Comforts, this is Pearl."

"This is Seth Reynolds may I speak to Cori, please?"

"Please hold" Pearl said. Seth was actually surprised when Cori came on the line in a few minutes.

"You are in serious trouble with your mother. She starts sentences with 'Seth, that darn son of mine - are you ears burning in Houston?"

"No" he laughed. "But it isn't surprising. She was not pleased."

"What can I do for you Mr. Reynolds?"

"Stop calling me Mr. Reynolds first of all...."

"I could add, that darn old neighbor of mine....would that help?"

"Not really, no. Let's just try, Seth."

"Okay, Seth, that darn old neighbor of mine....what can I do for you?"

Seth laughed then asked "Are you going to the reunion this weekend?"

"Unless I can get out of it some way, Faith and Nia are dragging me kicking and screaming. Literally, probably."

"Do you have something else to do?"

"Wash my hair, vacuum, clean the bathrooms, mow the lawn...pretty much anything would be more preferable."

"Oh, ouch. Okay, then I don't guess you'd go as my date then." Seth grimaced. There was no comment from Cori and Seth looked at his phone to see if he still had a signal. "Cori, did I lose you?" Still no response from Cori

"Cori?" he called again. "Please answer even if it is a no."

"Daphne can't come?" she finally whispered.

"We've decided to part company and be friends only."

"Seth, you don't like me so I don't get why you are even calling me so I'm going to forget that you did. Goodbye." Seth heard the click of her hanging up on him just an instant before the dial tone.

"Crap" he swore to the inside of his car as he tossed the phone to the other seat. "Well, at least she'll get the flowers."

Cori did get the flowers later that day but tossed the card and then had Pearl divide up the bouquet and give half to Faith for the display in the craft store and half to Nia for display in the restaurant. Within an hour, Cori had forgotten that she'd ever received them.

Chapter 7

"Look" Cori stopped "I can't go in there and pretend to be friendly and have a good time with people who have hated me. I just can't."

"Yes, you can." Faith encouraged.

"She's right" Nia chimed in. "We are going to go in there and enjoy the food, since we catered it, and see how fat and ugly some of our classmates have gotten."

"I should be helping out at Hannah's House."

"Your mother is covering and so are John and Pearl. Move it, sister." Faith said pointing to the door.

"I can hate you forever if this goes bad, right?"

"Honey, with your short term memory loss you won't even remember it in the morning."

"Ouch" Cori said with dramatic effect "just reach in and destroy my beating heart next time."

"Move it, you are stalling."

"All night if I have too."

Faith explained "I'm going in. Isaac said he was Seth's date tonight and that just ain't right. I'm going to sit right down next to him and change that situation as fast as possible."

"Isaac called you?"

"Everyday my friend. Every single day. I think he likes me."

"Why didn't you ask him to be your date? He could have had my ticket."

"Seth had an extra ticket."

"Why?" asked Cori

"He and Daphne broke up."

"I think he told me that. Maybe. Did he call me?"

"Yes" answered Faith "and he sent you flowers. It is in your diary."

"Why would he call me and send flowers?"

"Ask him." Faith said exiting the car. Nia had already exited but Cori remained in the car. Faith and Nia exchanged a look and opened Cori's door for her. Nia took her by the arm and pulled.

"This is a bad idea." Cori said as she finally exited the car. "A superbly bad idea."

"Smile and pretend" suggested Faith.

Inside the community center, Cori tried escape Faith and Nia with the guise of checking on her catering staff but they each hooked one of her arms and propelled her inside. Faith didn't know if she spotted Isaac or he spotted her but she headed right for his table.

"Hi Isaac and Seth" greeted Faith.

"Hello ladies" they returned. "Please join us." Seth offered. "How are you?" Faith and Nia answered but Cori didn't. She kept looking around the room for hidden dangers until Faith kicked her under the table.

"What?" Cori whispered.

"Seth asked you a question."

"Oh, I'm sorry. I can't hear very well in here. What was the question?"

"How are you?"

"I'm okay." She answered the paused "Thank you for the flowers."

"You are welcome." Seth returned. Before Seth could speak to her anymore, more and more classmates came up to the table to talk to him. Eventually he was pulled from the table by someone to go see or speak to someone else. He had been a popular kid in school and still was apparently.

Cori was miserable but tried to keep it from showing. The evening's master of ceremonies eventually took the stage and greeted the class of 2000. He made a few opening remarks then gave the instructions for the buffet. He thanked Warm Comforts for catering the event. Seth was finally able to return to his table.

After dinner, the dancing began so Faith and Isaac excused themselves to go dance. Cori excused herself to go to the ladies room and two friends came up to Nia and Seth and asked them to dance. Cori hid out in the ladies room as long as was reasonably possible then went to check on the catering staff. As she re-entered the main room of activities, someone grabbed her arm.

"Hi Cori, where's Roger?" he joked. Cori tried to remove her arm from the guys grasp but he was drunk and mean and bigger than her. "Oh, that's right...you killed him. I forgot."

"You're drunk, Stan. Let go of me."

"Don't tell me what to do." He said angrily.

"Let her go, Stan. Now" Seth said as he walked up to the pair. Stan looked at Seth.

"Why?" he slurred his speech. "If I remember right, you don't like her either. She was your favorite target in high school."

"Well, she's not now. I'll apologize to her forever for every insult I ever said to her. She's got more class than any of us have, now let go of her arm before I call the sheriff."

"The sheriff's my cousin, he won't do anything to me." Stan said as he continued to grip Cori's arm. "I could beat her and no one would say a word."

"Let's just see about that..." Seth said as he started towards Stan. Cori reached her free arm out to block him.

"No, Seth. Call the police or walk away. Don't fight with him."

"See, she likes it." Stan taunted. Cori rounded on the man and gave him a left hook upside the head. He was stunned and released her arm. Seth caught him and pushed him upside the wall. The room came to a complete stop and there was dead silence. Faith, Nia and Isaac were beside Cori in a second.

"I called the sheriff." Faith said. Seth nodded and pulled Stan's arms behind him and propelled him outside the room in hopes that the party would begin again. Isaac followed him as did Cori.

Faith and Nia tried to motion everyone back to what they were doing and had the DJ restart the music for dancing again. The master of ceremonies directed everyone's attention back to the video that was running and the dancing. When the crowd was refocused, Faith and Nia grabbed Cori's wrap and headed to find her.

Outside in the parking lot, the deputies had arrived and begun to ask questions. Seth was on one side of the entrance and Cori was alone on the other side. Faith started to go to Cori but Isaac caught her. "Wait. The deputy wants to ask his questions. Please give Seth a chance with her."

"Seriously?"

"Yes, please."

"Oh my word..." Faith said quietly. "Seriously?"

"Yes, he's in love with her."

"She doesn't know that, she think he hates her."

"I know. Will you give him a chance?"

"She may not give him a chance."

"I know that too and so does he. But let's just see."

"Okay." Faith agreed. Isaac wrapped his arm around her and pulled her close.

"Thanks" he whispered to her.

"Seriously?" Faith questioned again.

"Seth is in love with Cori if that's what you are asking. And I want to see where you and I might go, are you objecting to that?"

"Not at all." She said emphatically. Isaac chuckled and kissed her on the head.

The deputy questioning Seth finished before the deputy questioning Cori so Seth went to stand behind her. When Cori was finished answering her questions and the deputy walked off, Seth stepped around in front of her. "Are you hurt?"

"No, just mad and embarrassed again."

"I want you to go to the doctor anyway. I can drive you."

"I'm fine. I just want to go home."

"Cori, he's stronger than you, I know he hurt you."

"Just bruising. Some ice will take care of the worst of it. Will you tell Faith that I need to leave and have her meet me at the car?"

"Wait here and I'll have Faith take Isaac home and I'll take you home."

"Whatever is faster." Cori agreed. Seth ran back to the front door of the community center while Cori stood near the curb. He encountered Isaac just inside the door and explained that he was taking Cori home. Faith gave him Cori's wrap and he ran back to her.

"Cori" he said quietly as he approached "here is your wrap."

"Thanks, I was getting cold."

"Come on, I'll have the car warmed up in a few minutes." He said gently wrapping his arm around her and urging her forward to his car. After handing her in, he ran around to his side and sat down. "Please let me take you to a doctor."

"I told you, I'm fine."

Seth pulled out of the parking lot and started down the road. "Um, where do you live?"

"At Hannah's House. I have an apartment behind the main facility."

"I'm sorry about tonight. I'm sorry about what I did to you in high school. I'm sorry that Stan felt like he could do that to you because of what I did in high school and what Roger did to you while you were married."

"How do you know what Roger did to me?"

"I was at the Houston Community Center the other night. I heard your talk."

"What did I say?"

"You don't remember?"

"On a good day, my memory span is about thirty minutes. If I'm tired or stressed, it is five to ten. Sometimes I can remember until the next day but not unless I really concentrate on it. If I can remember it the next day, I can keep the memory."

"So in other words, tomorrow all you will remember about me is the jerk I was in high school instead of my caring about you tonight."

"I'll try to remember your caring tonight. But, actually, why do you care? You don't think much of me."

"You are so very wrong about that. I think very much of you."

When Seth glanced sideways to Cori he saw a frown on her face. Cori questioned him further "did I know but then forget that?"

"I wish I could say yes to that. But no, it is a recent development."

"Seth, don't. I don't know what you are trying to tell me but..."

"Don't say no, please. Let's just see what might happen."

"We can't and you shouldn't want too. If I told my story the other night then you know what my marriage was like."

"That is your past. What about a future?"

Cori remained quiet as the tears fell. "Please don't." she said eventually. Seth pulled up behind the housing unit and the security guard let him in. Cori directed him to a place to park. When she started to exit the car, he calmly called her name.

"Cori" he began "please can we talk?"

"Seth, you have a good life I would assume. Run as fast as you can in the opposite direction from me and don't look back. Remember the me from high school that you enjoyed insulting. You need to let me still be that piece of worthless chewing gum on the bottom of your shoe. You'll be so glad that you did."

"No I won't do that."

"Seth" Cori interrupted "my mission is to save people from the worst possible thing in their life. I would be that for you. I'm saving you from me. Let me do this for you, I telling you what is best. Goodbye."

"I won't give up. And maybe you won't remember this tomorrow and will give me another chance."

"Goodbye, Seth." Cori quietly as she left the car. He couldn't exit his side fast enough to stop her escape so all he could do was watch her disappear into her apartment.

"Dammit" he shouted out loud. "Crap, crap, crap." Seth backed out of the parking space and wave goodbye to the security guard before pulling back onto the highway. Instead of returning to his mother's house, he drove to the football field near the park and got out to walk around the track. He felt like his heart had been broken and he didn't know how to mend it.

Cori sat in her apartment and cried after escaping from Seth's car. It would be nice to think they he actually meant to say nice things to her but she wouldn't believe it. He had to be wrong.

_But what if he isn't_ a voice said inside her head w _hat if he could mean them about you? Try and see. Remember tonight. Remember his kindness. Go write it down and remember it._ Cori figured she was setting herself up for heartache but she did go to her diary and write down the events of the evening. She tried to recapture every word before her memory forgot it. She read it and re-read it over and over throughout the long night when she couldn't sleep. A few hours before dawn she finally slept, when her mother woke her up the next morning, Seth's kindness was a memory she still had.

The first card addressed to Cori marked personal and confidential arrived on Tuesday after the reunion. Pearl handed it to her with the rest of her mail. She opened the card and read it. The front had a picture of a goofy bear and inside was handwritten a long note...

There is an all-night store open in Catesville that sold this silly card. This bear isn't as cute as yours are but he had to do in a pinch. Please keep this card so that you will remember it. I want you to build new good memories of me and forget the horrible jerk from high school. I want to call you every day and talk to you. Please take my calls. I will try to write everyday but I may miss a few days. I want to come to Catesville and see you. I want to gently hold you in my arms and give you a kiss if you agree. I want you to dream of a future not let your past get in your way.

This is my business card with every possible way to get in contact with me. One side of the map is directions to my house and the other side is directions to my office. I'd be thrilled if you would use them one day. I'll end this note now but please think about it and remember it. I'm thinking about you, Seth.

Cori re-read the note again and looked at the business card. She laughed softly when she saw that there were four phone numbers for him. Three for Isaac in case Seth didn't answer one of his numbers. Also included was Seth's address of his business and his email address.

Cori opened the email program and got her started on sending the email. Cori was typing slowly.

Thank you for the card. I'll keep it and do my best to remember it. I remember from Saturday night too. Thank you for helping with Stan. I still don't know about the other though. I'm so scared. Cori

Cori clicked with her mouse on the word send and the email disappeared just as Cori's cell phone rang.

"Hi Millie"

"Hi Cori, can you help me with a favor?"

"I'll certainly try."

"Doctor Jane wants me to come into the office right now but wants someone with me. Can you go with me?"

"I'll gladly do that. I'll come pick you up."

"Thank you."

Cori grabbed her phone, PDA and recorder as she explained to Pearl where she was going. It was less than fifteen minutes until she pulled into Millie's driveway. Millie came to the car before Cori could exit.

"Thank you so much."

"Anytime. Did the doctor say anything?"

"No, she didn't. Just come in as soon as I could."

"Then let's go see Doctor Jane." Cori said brightly even though she was a bit concerned. After parking in the lot where the doctor's office was, Cori walked beside Millie inside to the receptionist desk and waited while Millie signed some papers. The nurse called them back right away. They were seated for just a few minutes when Doctor Jane came in.

"Hi Mrs. Reynolds. Hi Cori" Cori and Millie returned her greeting.

"Cori, you can record this meeting, I don't mind."

"Thanks, I don't want to forget it."

"That will be important." Doctor Jane said. "Mrs. Reynolds, your blood work came back from the lab and we need to have you go to see a specialist in Houston."

Cori suddenly reached over for Millie's hand and gave it a squeeze. Millie was trembling and asked in a weak voice "Why? What's wrong?"

Doctor Jane continued "I don't want to give you a false assessment but I'm concerned. The blood counts could indicate leukemia. I want you to see a specialist before that possibility is a fact. I've called someone I want you to see and there is an opening the day after tomorrow. Would you like to go then?"

"I'll take you tomorrow and you can stay with Seth." Cori offered.

"Thank you, Cori, I appreciate it."

"I'll confirm it and be right back." Doctor Jane rose from her desk and went to another room to make the call. She was back in just a few minutes. "You are all set. I've already had your paperwork faxed to her. She is a good friend of mine and you'll really like her."

"Thank you very much. I'm a little scared."

"Don't be. We'll all take good care of you."

Cori and Millie thanked Doctor Jane again and left the office. Back in the car, Millie was quiet and Cori didn't question her. When Cori parked back at Millie's house and followed Millie inside, Millie sat on the chair in the kitchen and cried softly. Cori hugged her gently and cried with her. When both women had finished and dried their tears, Cori suggested that they call Seth.

"Will you do it?" Millie questioned her.

"I'll be on the other phone but you should do it."

Millie agreed and went to get the other phone for Cori. Millie dialed Seth's phone number.

"Hi Mom" he greeted.

"Hi" she returned. "Cori's on the phone too."

"Hi Cori."

"Hi Seth." Cori returned. She looked at Millie to continue but could see that the tears were starting again so Cori spoke. Millie shook her head and pointed at Cori who then began to explain "Um, Seth, we just came from the doctor's office and your mom needs to see a specialist in Houston the day after tomorrow. I'll bring her tomorrow."

Seth's heart raced as he asked "What's wrong?"

Again Millie was not able to answer "It is possible that it is leukemia but they need to confirm that with more tests. I have the conversation recorded and I'll play it for you tomorrow. What time would you like us to arrive?"

"Come anytime. I could come get her if you would rather."

"I'll gladly bring her, I don't mind. I just don't want her by herself at your house."

"She won't be and you plan to spend the night too Cori."

"No, I can come right back."

"I'd rather you stayed. Please."

"Okay. I guess. Umm, we can leave here in time to arrive at one in the afternoon, would that work?"

"That would be perfect. Mom, I love you and I'll take care of anything you need."

"I know, son. I know. We'll see you tomorrow."

"Call me later if you want too, either of you." Seth reluctantly hung up the phone and so did Cori and Millie. Millie found herself wrapped up in Cori's hug immediately.

"You have a wonderful son."

"I do. And a wonderful friend."

"Me too. Now, I'm going to go rush to my house and pack some clothes. I'll be back with dinner in a little bit. I'm not leaving you alone tonight and tomorrow we will go see Seth. Is that okay?"

"You are an angel. I so appreciate you."

"I love you, Millie. We'll take good care of you." Cori rushed to her car but noticed her brother's car was in his driveway so she went there instead. She quickly told him the story and he promised to handle things at the office for as long as was needed. She hugged him and said she would call when she had some idea of when she would be home. On her way to the apartment she called Faith and relayed the same information. At her apartment, she found her mother and her mother said she would cover at Hannah's House. She also decided to check on Seth.

"This is Seth."

"Hi, it is Cori."

"Hi. Is my mom okay?"

"I think she is scared mostly. I wanted to see how you were."

"I think I'm scared too. I appreciate your help."

"She's my friend, I'd do anything for her."

"I know" Seth answered. After a pause, he changed subjects "I got your email."

Suddenly shy she asked "Was that okay?"

"It made my day. Can we keep in touch that way?"

"Yeah" she said quietly "if you want too."

"I do." He said happily. "I already sent a couple of letters too though so watch for those when you get back."

"I will. I'd better go. I told your mother that I would hurry so she wouldn't be by herself for very long. We will see you tomorrow."

"Thank you Cori."

"You are welcome, Seth." Cori said hanging up. She called the restaurant and placed her to go order then hurriedly packed some clothes and picked up their dinner on the way back to Millie's house.

Millie helped Cori read and negotiate the streets of Houston to find Seth's house. It gave them something to smile and joke about to relieve the tension they were both feeling. Cori was nervous for Millie's doctor's appointment but she was also nervous about seeing Seth again. She had pretty much run him off the other night but his card had been so sweet that she assumed she was forgiven for that. She wondered how he would treat her today.

"There's Seth's house and it looks like Isaac is here too. He's going to make a big fuss too."

"Probably" answered Cori parking the car on the street. "You deserve to be treated like a Queen for as long as possible. Let them spoil you, it will make them feel better."

"Let Seth spoil you too and I'll be so happy."

Cori was stunned "You can't know about that."

"Yes, I can sweetie. He told me a lot of it."

"Well, we will see. I don't know, Millie."

"One day at a time, sweetie. One day at a time." Millie was smiling as Seth came out of the house followed by Isaac. Seth smiled at Cori but took his mother's hand and walked with her to the house while Isaac and Cori retrieved the luggage.

"How's Seth doing?" asked Cori

"He's scared like we all are. But he's glad you came to see him."

"You know too?"

"Yes, my dear, I do."

"I'm not promising anything."

"He just wants a chance and some or lots of your time and attention."

"That's a scary prospect. He should run like crazy."

"He's not a good runner" joked Isaac. Cori chuckled with him.

Inside, Seth met her at the door. Isaac took their bags to the rooms. "Can I hug you?" asked Seth. Cori nodded and Seth gently enfolded her into his arms while she wrapped her arms around his neck. Isaac was back in a short minute and winked as her as he passed by on the way to see Millie.

"Who did you tell and what did you tell them?"

"I'll tell you later."

"I'm holding you too that."

"Are either of you hungry?" Seth asked leading Cori into the living room where Mindy was entertaining her grandmother and Isaac. Mindy nodded so that propelled everyone to the dining room where Beth, Seth's housekeeper and cook, served them lunch. After lunch, Mindy went to take a nap and Millie went to lie down also. Seth's first request was to hear the recording of his mother's doctor's appointment. Cori retriever her recorder and played it for him.

"That was too short, I want more information." Seth said frustrated. "So do I email or try to get Micah home?"

"I wouldn't, not yet anyway." Isaac answered. Cori agreed. "Get some answers first, Seth. Then you can decide. Your mom should help make the decision."

"That makes more sense. Thanks."

The room was quiet for a while as all three contemplated the seriousness of a potential leukemia diagnosis on someone they all loved. Finally Isaac broke the silence "Okay, folks, I need to go run an errand. It was wonderful to see you again Cori."

"See ya, Isaac and thanks for everything." Isaac nodded and left Seth's study.

"Hi" Seth said as he went to sit by Cori on the sofa.

"Hi" she answered.

"So, do you remember Saturday night?"

"Yes, the good and the bad."

"Which part am I?"

"Part of me says neither, you've confused me and scared me."

"What kind of scared?"

"Not that kind. I'm not afraid of you like being abused by you. I'm scared for you and for me. Why didn't you run like I asked you too?"

"I can't and I don't want too."

"You should. You really should."

Seth remembered her words from his back porch all those years prior. He looked at his hands but questioned Cori "Is this where to turn and walk away from me like you promised on my back porch that day?"

"If I turn and walk away it will be for your best good not because of some loser promise I made in high school."

"It won't be my best good if you walk away from me. I know it won't."

"We don't know that yet."

"Will you go with me and work on being an "us"?"

"Are you really sure, Seth?"

"I am really very sure, Cori."

"And when I get scared?" Cori questioned looking at her hands and not Seth.

Seth's gaze was warm and caring when he tipped her face up so she'd look at him. "Talk to me. You know I would never physically abuse you, you are secure in that aren't you?"

"Yes. There is a type of person who is an abuser and you don't have those characteristics. Roger did but I didn't see them because I didn't know what they were."

"I got extremely angry when I heard your talk last week. I wanted to pound him into the ground and the same with Stan on Saturday."

"That's okay. John does too and I know he would never hurt me. He protects me from Mrs. Morgan."

"Why is that necessary?"

"She calls sometimes and asks when I'm going to stop the charade of saying that Roger was a wife abuser. And when I'm going to donate his NFL memorabilia to Ridgemont and USC?"

"Over my dead body" He grumbled.

"Easy, Seth." Cori soothed as she patted his hand "Roger's football stuff is in the NFL Commissioner's office if it even still exists. As for the other, I don't talk to her. John and Pearl screen most of my calls. And Mrs. Morgan has no idea about Hannah's House or Warm Comforts."

"Cori, I'm sorry."

"Enough about the Morgan's." Cori said gently clasping his hand. "He can't hurt me anymore, it is over."

Seth picked up her hand and kissed the back of it. "You are amazing."

"I wish." She teased. "But thanks for saying that."

"I mean it too, missy." He pretended to be fierce. Cori just smiled and squeezed his hand again.

"Can I have a tour of your house?" Seth nodded and took her on the grand tour.

Mindy was awake by the time the tour was over and it was time for her t-ball practice. Millie had the energy to go and Cori agreed to go so all four loaded into Seth's car and went to the park where the practice was held. Millie and Cori went to sit on the bleachers while Seth walked Mindy over to her team. He had a few quick words with Isaac then moved to sit down by his mother and Cori.

Seth chuckled to himself when he saw that Cori had a sketch pad on her lap and the colored pencils in her hand. The bear was mostly drawn already but she was sketching the clothes and the accessories. He noticed the way she compensated for no grip by resting the pencils between her index finger and her middle finger.

Cori looked up from her drawing and shrugged. "Did I talk about this?"

"You did. You've compensated well."

"Lots of practice. Speaking of practice, watch her not me." She pointed to Mindy.

"Ooh, a temperamental artist" he teased "that information is worth knowing. I better watch it, don't you think Mom?"

"Yes, dear, I believe you should. I heard she has a mean left hook."

Cori groaned but Seth laughed "I know, I saw it firsthand. She tells me to walk away from a fight and an instant later she creams the guy."

"I heard. Even the sheriff was impressed." teased Millie

"I'm ignoring both of you." Cori muttered. Millie patted her shoulder and Seth laughed. Cori kept drawing except when Mindy was batting or involved in a play then she was cheering loudly for the little girl. One time she took out her camera and snapped Mindy's picture when she was at bat. She had an idea which she would do in private. For now she went back to drawing on her bears.

Seth was working late in his study when Cori came and knocked on his door.

"Hi, come in" he said motioning with his hand. "I thought I was the only one up."

"I ummm I don't sleep much so I draw. I was thinking as I was drawing and.....well I drew a couple of things. If you think it is stupid, it is okay. I'm sure you have tons of pictures of Mindy at t-ball practice but... and if you don't like this it is okay but....I thought maybe it would be unique and well, I don't draw people as well but..." Cori laid down a piece of paper on his desk. It was a picture of Mindy at the t-ball stand holding the bat on her shoulder. Seth was speechless, it was wonderful. He didn't say anything so Cori reached for it.

"Don't you dare." He growled playfully flicking her with his finger. Cori snatched her hand back and laughed.

"Geez, Uncle Seth, no need to get testy."

Seth beamed at her. "It is magnificent, Cori. Brilliant and beautiful. Thank you."

"I thought maybe you could scan it and send it to Micah and Tish too."

"Absolutely. And then I'm keeping the original and putting it under lock and key or Mom or Isaac or Micah or Tish will steal it from me."

"It is just a drawing."

"It is not." He stated. "It is a gift. All mine!"

"Good heavens Seth, you are going a little overboard on a picture."

"No I'm not."

"Forget I mentioned it and I'll just keep these other things to myself and send them to you."

"What other things? Give..." he motioned with his hand.

"Alright but they come with an explanation and move your hands away so I don't lose mine..." she said shooing his hand away. Seth laughed and sat on his hands.

"I've being thinking about your presentation and wait....hands back..." she shooed again when he moved his hands toward his desk. When he sat on them again she laid two pieces of paper face down on his desk. "I have a couple of ideas. I won't sell my entire collection in your catalogue but...if you agree to a couple of ideas then we maybe can make a deal. Back off , shoo.." she warned. "The first idea is, I'll put my best seller in your catalogue if you agree to advertise it as a Hannah's House bear. The deal is that you advertise a limited quantity of a thousand and ninety percent of the profits go to Hannah's House. The second part is I design you your own bear and keep it out of my collections. I'll create the pattern for it and sell you the design and the pattern but my workers make the clothes for it until we can't keep up with your orders and we get a fee per piece." She turned the pictures over "this one is mine and this one would be yours." Hers was the same bear as Mindy's but in a different outfit and his was a bear lounging on a beach towel with a beach umbrella, sunglasses, a swimming suit and a flowered beach shirt or a t-shirt with a tie-dyed design.

"Can I move my hands, now?" he questioned. Cori nodded and took a step back and clasped her hands behind her back.

"I can design different clothes for yours or your own design team could when they had the pattern or we can forget it if you don't like them." Seth picked up both pictures and walked around his desk as he inspected them. Cori didn't trust that goofy grin on his face so she backed away from him playfully.

"My hands are my business, be good." She teased. "Stop it." She laughed when he advanced on her with a huge smile. She ran around the chair behind his desk and used it as protection. She knew he wouldn't hurt her but he looked so goofy. "Seth, knock it off and say something."

"We can negotiate I believe. It is a good idea. I like mine better but someone is too stubborn."

"It is my company." She defended. He smiled at her and came around to where she was behind his chair.

"I know my dear. I like the idea. Let me run it by my staff on Monday and then we will let you know. Do you remember that I'm working on a tight deadline?"

"I can work with that. He's basically designed from my perspective and the pattern shouldn't take too long. I'll have my best seamstress make a prototype after the pattern is done and then he would be yours."

"You are amazing." He said gently touching her hand that rested on his chair. Cori blushed and shook her head.

"I like my job." She countered.

"Did NYU want to toss your cute little butt to the street when you designed bears in their Art History class?"

"I didn't exactly design bears. I have the cutest little boa constrictors that I showed my professors. He passed me but I received a _oh my word how could you glare_ when I handed in my final project." Seth burst out laughing. He laid the pieces of paper back on his desk and gently pulled her into his arms.

"The pictures, all of them, are beautiful."

"Thank you" she said softly. He held onto her for several minutes just enjoying holding her. He gently kissed her cheek as he released her.

"Now, beautiful, it is midnight and Mindy is an early riser so I'm off to bed."

Cori blushed at his endearment. "Me too. See you in the morning."

"I certainly hope so." He said. "I'll walk you to your room." He shut down his computer then clasped her hand in his and led her from the room. At her bedroom door, he raised her hand and kissed the back of it. "Sleep well" he whispered.

"Good dreams" she whispered back at him. He reluctantly released her hand and she stepped into her room and he walked on to his.

Cori pulled into a restaurant parking lot and shut her car off. She was flustered and not thinking clearly so she needed a break. She was lost. Faith was going to say I told you so. Seth would laugh gently. She looked at her map again but she didn't see any of the streets listed. She was going to have to call someone. She had said goodbye to Seth, Millie and Mindy just a few minutes ago but knew that they were in a rush to the doctor's office so she voted for Isaac instead. Seth had programmed all his and Isaac's phone numbers into her cell phone so she found Isaac in her address book and called him.

"This is Isaac Walters."

"This is Cori."

"Hello, Miss Cori. What can I do for you?"

"I'm lost in Houston and can you not tell Seth?"

Cori could hear the laughter in Isaac voice when he answered "I thought you had a map."

"I do but I still got lost."

"Tell me where you are." He said still trying to not laugh. Cori told him the street signs she could see and the name of the restaurant where she was parked. Isaac thought for a minute the easiest way to get her out of the neighborhood and back onto the highway towards home. "Okay, I'll guide you out of the neighborhood are you ready?"

"Yes" she said starting her car and backing out of the parking space and over to the street again. Isaac told her which was to turn and where until she finally saw the entrance to the freeway again. "Oh, thank you. I'm back to the freeway and now I know the way again. I appreciate your help and you can laugh now."

"Why would I laugh now?"

"Because you are dying too. You can either laugh or tell Seth but not both. Oh, and not Faith either."

"Missy, you are just mighty bossy. I'm calling you back in five minutes for a progress report."

"Thanks, Isaac. Talk to you later." She said disconnecting. Cori chuckled herself when she pictured Isaac's smiling face laughing at her and telling both Seth and Faith. As she drove along she was thinking about Seth and how he seemed to really like her and she was a bit overwhelmed. When her phone rang she noticed it had been about five minutes so she answered "Hi Isaac"

"Hey beautiful."

Cori was surprised that it wasn't Isaac. "Hi Seth." She laughed "He called you already?"

"I'm afraid so. Are you okay and on the right road now?"

"I'm fine and I know where I am now. There shouldn't be any more problems."

"We are at the doctor's office but call me back when you get back to Catesville."

"I will, thank you for checking on me."

"You are welcome, drive carefully." He emphasized. Cori agreed and then disconnected the call.

When Cori arrived back home, she checked in with her mother and found out that there was a new arrival. She went to find the woman and introduce herself. "Hi Monica, I'm Cori."

"Hi" she said quietly. Her face was swollen from the beating she had received. Cori's mother handed her a new ice pack. "Thank you for taking me in."

"I'm glad you found us and I'm sorry you need us." Cori said sympathetically "For your first few days here, just take it easy and heal. If you need something just lift the phone handset there and it rings to someone always. If you need a doctor again, they will get you one. If I'm not the one who answers the phone, I can always be called and I'll arrive as soon as I can. But I'm not always the one you will need either. We have a minister who would come, we have a counselor who would come and we have honorary mothers and grandmothers who would come."

"Thank you." Monica said

"And unfortunately there are a few rules for your safety. Number one, don't venture out by yourself until we are sure the danger for you has passed. Number two, no phone calls out on any house phone or your cell phone. If you and someone else need to leave the facility, get an emergency locator pager from the front desk and keep it easily accessible at all times. We are trying to keep you safe. If you change your mind about being here, then you will be dropped off at the bus station but you cannot endanger other women by telling who is here. Are you willing to accept these rules?"

"Yes" Monica said. "I will."

"Try to get some rest and heal." Cori said gently. Monica nodded and then Cori and her mother left her room.

"How was your trip to Houston?"

"Can we have dinner tonight and talk about that?"

"That would be wonderful."

"I'll see you after work then."

Cori embraced her Mom then headed over to her office at Warm Comforts. As she walked she called Seth.

"Hi" he greeted

"How was the doctor's appointment?" Cori questioned. "How is your Mom feeling?"

"She's tired after the appointment. The doctor seems nice and plenty smart. Mom seemed comfortable with her. There will be lots more blood tests over the next week or so. I'm bringing Mom home on Friday so she can pack for an extended stay and then we will return to Houston on Sunday."

"Can I call her at your house to check on her sometimes?"

"She'd love that and will you call me at any number to check on me sometimes?"

"Yes. Um, since you'll be here this weekend can we maybe talk and be specific on what we are doing?"

"That would be an excellent idea. When is good for you?"

"My PDA says that I'm free after one p.m. on Saturday or Friday after one p.m. I'm sorry I'm not good at spontaneous. I have to put everything down or I won't remember to do it."

"I'll pick you up at on Friday afternoon at two pm and we will go for a drive out to Chickory Lake and have long talk."

"Perfect. I already marked it down."

"I have to get on a conference call or I'd continue to talk to you now. Bye, Cori"

"Bye Seth. Have a good day." She said disconnecting.

Pearl handed Cori her messages and mail when she arrived at the office. John and Pearl brought her up to date on business then left her alone. Cori found two letters from Seth and two emails from him also. She opened the letter with the oldest postmark and read. Then she read the last letter then moved on to read the two emails. Parts of what he wrote almost made her cry because he was so kind and gentle. Part made her laugh and parts had her bewildered. How has this happened? Cori wrote a quick reply and then went off to walk the floor and then see Faith and Nia.

Chapter 8

"Mom" Cori began as they ate dinner that night "when I was in high school, did you know that Seth Reynolds hated me?"

"I knew you were not friends but you didn't share details."

"I really liked Micah as a friend and of course, Millie but Seth took lots of opportunities to taunt me about everything. He was friends with Roger also."

"Seth is nothing like Roger."

"No, he isn't. I agree. Last Saturday as Seth was bringing me home from the reunion, he _ummm_ doesn't hate me anymore and in fact seems to like me maybe as a girlfriend."

"Oh" Frances said surprised but cautious. She didn't want to discourage Cori from confiding in her.

"Saturday night I told him to run away and to forget that idea but he didn't do it."

"I think I'm glad about that but wasn't or isn't he engaged?"

"He told me and Faith told me that he ended his engagement. I'll have to ask again on more specifics. But even though I tried to run him off, he sent me a card and a letter that shows he likes me and doesn't want to go away. He hugged me when I arrived in Houston and we talked some. Tomorrow, we are supposed to have some time to talk about specifically where we are heading. I never planned on relationships again. I figured it was a bad idea. I don't want this to be bad for either one of us so should I stand firm on the run away and forget it speech I gave on Saturday?"

"There's two parts to that answer....you should have a relationship again. Secondly, you and Seth will have to spend time together to know if it is right or wrong for both of you. Don't make being scared a stopping block. My advice is that you are really straightforward with him on your marriage and how things were. You will have things that trigger bad memories for you and you don't want him to pay for mistakes that aren't his."

"What if I hurt him unintentionally? That wouldn't be fair to him and I would hate myself for it. Don't we have too many obstacles to overcome?"

"What you consider obstacles may not be obstacles to Seth and vice versa. Don't look for things to destroy a relationship if you want a relationship with Seth or at least to try for a relationship with Seth."

"He's been very sweet and kind to me. I don't want him to make a mistake."

"It may be uncomfortable for you but you'll have to be open to hurts. But you will have to express your fears and failures as will he. You'll have to have extremely open communication."

"I think I should go back to counseling."

"Maybe he should go too."

"We live in separate cities."

"You will work it out."

"Are we walking while we talk or just sitting?" Seth asked as they arrived at the picnic area of Chickory Lake. He could tell that Cori was nervous as she had not spoken since her initial greeting and she watched out the window during the entire ride to the lake.

"Maybe pacing?" she tried to joke.

"Let's walk for a while then. Can I hold your hand?" Cori offered hers and he took it and began to walk.

"Who is going to go first?" he asked when they had gone about a block.

"You and start at the beginning." Cori answered.

He didn't know if she meant this far back but he started in high school. "I treated you so badly in high school probably because I was jealous that you were smarter and more talented than me. I'm extremely sorry I was so immature and treated you that way. Maybe Roger wouldn't have...."

"Hold it" she cut him off and pulled him to a stop when she stopped. Her voice showed her agitation. "Let me make one thing perfectly clear to you, Roger gets all of the blame for the things that he did. His father helped but Roger made the bad choices in life. In confidence I'll tell you that Roger's father puts on a great act in public but in private had no kind words for anyone and was not above showing that physically. So, your comments in high school had nothing to do with how Roger treated me. I accept your apology for high school but it wasn't part of my marriage. Got it?"

"Got it." He said with a smile "And you a beautiful when you are feisty." Cori rolled her eyes at him and motioned with her hand for him to keep talking and explaining.

"Don't roll your eyes at me." He grumbled. "I have eyes and I know what I see."

"Are we arguing over this or are you going to talk to me?"

"I'll talk for now but we'll come back to this" he grumbled. Cori laughed gently and they continued to walk. "When I saw you at my mother's house that first time, I was ashamed of both of us that we hadn't matured enough to even say Hello to each other. My mother hadn't mentioned that you were in town or that you visited her."

"She never mentioned you to me either until just a few days before you came."

"Thank you for taking care of her for me."

"You are welcome. She's my friend."

"Anyway, Mindy had received the bear from Micah and I got more than a little obsessed with finding out who made it and how to get it in my company. But, I'm not walking with you right now to accomplish that. I've made my pitch, you made your counter-pitch and we will go from there. We, you and me, this, is not business."

"Good. That was a question of mine."

"So we came here to visit Mom and saw your booth at the fair. Daphne and Isaac had a great time at my expense over that cute little bear. He really is by the way."

"Thanks" she said embarrassed. "You really like toys, don't you?"

"Definitely. It makes me really good at my job and I never have to grow up either."

"You are grown up."

"You grew up pretty nice yourself, Miss Lewis."

"Flirting with me, Mr. Reynolds?"

"Unquestionably, Miss. Lewis."

"Go on with what you wanted to say." She said.

"At the fair we didn't speak either and I didn't think much about it until that night when Isaac questioned me about you and our years as neighbors. He asked me why I acted so horribly to you in high school and he asked me if you had really changed that much or had I acted like a fool in those days. I admitted that I'd been a fool. I told him about the list of insults you created for me."

"That was payback and I should have never done that."

"Micah thought you were spectacular that day. I was majorly ticked off."

"So was I."

"Back to my story, when I found out that you owned that cute little bear, I was floored. I was sure that you and I would make a good team and I totally didn't think our high school problems would be an issue. I was going to save you and make you part of Beaches and you would be forever grateful."

"Keep dreaming, friend."

"You were totally professional and turned me down. Within twenty-four hours, you stopped being professional for me and I became really confused. I was engaged, I was supposed to be thinking of Daphne and our wedding. I'll come back to her later."

"I do have questions about that."

"The day we came and Mindy ended up in your painting class, I don't think there was one minute of that day that you were not occupying my thoughts. I wanted to know why Hannah's House? Why here? Why, why, why? Isaac asked me about Daphne and I couldn't answer him. When he found the newspaper article that you were going to be in Houston to talk, we made plans to attend. I'm glad we did."

"I stayed home from work that next day and again, Isaac came to my rescue so to speak. I was enraged at Roger. I had been his friend, but I didn't know he was slime. He set aside tickets for Micah and I to go to a game in Seattle. I had no idea that you were married to him. When he came here to play, we went out after the game."

"Seth, stop for a minute." Cori said calmly. "I'm going to admit I know this so you can speak freely. We have lots to talk about regarding my marriage and if we are thinking of a relationship that may lead somewhere you will have to hear things that will not be easy. I know you came to Seattle and I know you went out after the games he played here. I know he had other women with him at the time. He was very proud of that fact. I'll quote him "I can have any woman I want in any city and there isn't anything you can do about it." He never kept his affairs a secret from me, he was proud of them."

"Cori, I'm so sorry."

"It isn't an apology that you need to make."

"I feel like it is."

"Go back to your story, please"

"Isaac asked me what I wanted and I knew the answer wasn't Daphne anymore. I want to be with you."

"Because of my past? Do you just feel sorry for me?"

Seth stopped walking and cupped her face in his hands very gently. "No. I want a future with you and not as just friends. You are amazing. You are beautiful, kind, loving, smart, caring, compassionate and strong. I want so badly to kiss you."

Cori smiled and nodded. Seth didn't hesitate and touched his lips very softly to hers. "That wasn't enough but I'll hold off." He said resting his forehead against hers. "Where was I?"

"Tell me about Daphne."

"I broke off our engagement that same day. She was glad, she had realized that she didn't love me either. We were friends. We never had passion or _ummm_ sex. Moving along to the reunion, I was glad you came and I'm glad I got to talk to you. I didn't like it that you told me to go away. I didn't then and I don't now, want to go away. So I came up with the idea that you might read letters if I sent them to you. Maybe I could convince you that I wasn't the jerk from our past. Maybe you could learn to like me and take a chance with me. Will you?"

"Seth, until I tell you more of my story, you should be careful. What I have to tell you isn't pretty and if you want to forget this conversation, I'll understand. We can get along as former neighbors if you want to then and we can still maybe do business together."

"Tell me whatever you want to tell me."

"I re-read my notes from Houston so I remember most of what I said that night but I will share some other things. I have many regrets and have learned many lessons. I go to counseling or I went to counseling and I'm going to resume it. If we decide to be a couple, you'll need to go too."

"Okay, I won't mind."

"I said in my talk that the first time Roger struck me was about four hours after the wedding. We were beginning to do the things that most couples do on their honeymoon but _ummm_ " Cori paused and took a deep breath but looked away from Seth "I wasn't ever going to tell this to anyone but a counselor."

"Please tell me." He said with much emotion. "I've wondered, I want facts."

"He couldn't perform. He blamed me and that's why he hit me. It really was just one time that first time and he did apologize but it did happen again. The intervals varied, the reasons varied - I existed in his neat little world. I was not allowed to work outside of the home. No friends, no visits back here or them to come there. Excuses after excuses kept my parents and John from knowing. I got really good at them. I'm just glad I was already here when my father passed away, I'm not sure he would have let me come to the funeral."

"What did you do with your time?"

"Can't you guess?"

"You drew?"

"I drew. I have sketch pad after sketch pad of bears, lions, tigers, rabbits, snakes, squirrels or any other kind of animals that I could make into something cute. And when I couldn't think of anything to draw, I wrote."

"I get it. The books with the animals you sell now."

"Yes. They are modified somewhat but yes." Cori shrugged but continued her stories "this was the one thing he couldn't take away from me but he tried."

"Dammit" Seth swore "he smashed your hand to stop you from drawing."

"He did" Cori confirmed. "The only reason he relented and took me to a doctor was because I begged and pleaded and gave him what he wanted" Cori paused "in bed" she said very quietly. Seth thought he was going to be sick to his stomach. He stepped away from her before he raged at a dead man.

Her heart sunk. She watched him knowing that he would now go away from her. It's over and it didn't even begin. _His face for the brief instant before he walked away showed his disgust at me. There's nothing left to do but leave him be because he won't want me now_. Cori turned and started towards the car. As she walked, she pulled her cell phone out of her pocket and dialed Faith.

"Hey Cori"

"Hi. I'm at Chickory Lake, can you come get me?"

"Yeah but why are you out there?"

"Seth and I were having a talk. It didn't go well."

"Oh Cori, I'm sorry. I'm on my way."

"Thank you." Cori described where she was to Faith then went and sat down behind a tree. She was going to keep it together until she reached her apartment. As she sat, she watched the birds flying and the squirrels scampering across the ground from tree to tree. There was a few fisherman out on the lake and she watched one of them pull up a fish. She heard a twig snap and knew someone was approaching her.

Cori began to speak first to avoid any further conversation. If he tried to make excuses she was going to break down and the seemed unacceptable right then. She didn't need his pity. "I have some presents for your mom and Mindy in the bag in your car. If you could give them out, I'd appreciate it. Faith is on her way to get me. Go home, Seth. Forget about everything but making sure your mom gets well."

"Is that what you really want?" he asked softly

"Yes, it is." She answered bravely.

"It isn't what I want."

"I'm too selfish to care about that. That's the new me. I only do what I want to do. I don't care about other people and what they want." Cori was surprised when Seth's laughter was so enthusiastic.

"Try selling that story to someone else" he said "if you want someone to believe your lie you will have to live it."

"I am living it. I'm living it right now. Go away, go home. Run like I told you too."

"No, I won't."

"Then I will do it for you. Goodbye, Seth."

"You haven't finished your story."

"Use your imagination if you need to think about it. But be smart and just forget that I ever existed."

"I won't do that either." He stated fiercely. Before Cori could respond, she saw Faith's car approaching. She stood up and began the walk towards it. "Cori, don't go." He called after her. He ran after her and captured her arm gently. She pushed it away but didn't speak. "It is not fair, I can't even get mad at you." Cori didn't acknowledge him or his comments. She opened the door on Faith's car and climbed in. Faith left the lake a few seconds later.

Chapter 9

The next week Cori tried not to think about Seth or anything but Warm Comforts and Hannah's House. She worked at the house on the crisis line and gave her mom some extra breaks and took over some of her work. At Warm Comforts, she did her routines but no one received any extra words from Cori. When there weren't any issues that she needed to deal with, she continued working on her drawings and the pattern for what might become the bear for Beaches Toys.

On Monday morning, Seth had tried to reach her but she ignored his call so he called John. John relayed his message that his staff liked the ideas she had. Cori thanked John, told him the specifics of what she wanted in the contract and then told him to handle the negotiations. Since she didn't like that part anyway, that was nothing new to him.

Millie received several phone calls from Cori but it was when Cori thought Seth would be at work. Millie did not ask Cori about Seth and Cori assumed it was because Seth had already told her what had happened. In actuality, Cori didn't care why Millie didn't ask, she was just grateful that she didn't.

Frances, Cori's mother, did ask but Cori told her that Seth was going to run like she told him in the first place. When Frances questioned her more, Cori said "when I told him part of the story he turned away from me and I felt like dirt. I won't do it again. My life is Hannah's House and Warm Comforts. Other than a little bit of business which John can handle, I won't think about him anymore."

Seth may have written emails but Cori didn't turn the computer on for that reason. He sent a few letters but Cori just tucked the away in her purse then at night she put them in her diary but never read them. Since he himself had programmed her cell phone, his name came up when he tried to call her but it always went unanswered.

At Hannah's Crafts, Cori would arrange Teddybearville like she wanted it and had conversations with Faith on business. But Faith didn't ask her about Seth. On the way home from the lake, Cori had said that when she told Seth about her hand that he had turned away from her and that it had been devastating. She didn't blame him but she wouldn't do it again. Cori kept up with whatever work she needed to do but she rarely slept and she barely ate. When she thought of new foods for the restaurant, she sampled them but that was about the most that she ate and her family was beginning to be concerned about her weight loss.

Frances invited her over for dinner every night but Cori ate very little and she never smiled. Faith asked her to go to the movies but Cori had work to do.

The incident with Stan at the reunion had been handled by Stan pleading guilty and getting community service. Cori didn't care about that either when people she knew asked her about it, she shrugged and said it was fine with her.

At about three weeks since she'd seen Seth, John had brought her a contract to sign with Beaches Toy Company. She signed it and wrote a quick note to Seth that the bear was drawn and the pattern was in progress. She was professional and thanked him for the opportunities he had given her.

It had been a month since Seth and Cori's talk at the lake but still no one knew how to reach Cori. She made an appointment with her counselor finally and there she had someone to talk too.

In Houston, nobody wanted to talk to Seth. Isaac, Mindy and Millie braved it sometimes but Abigail only talked to him when absolutely necessary. The first week after his aborted talk with Cori, he was so sad. Mindy kept giving him hugs and tried to make him smile. She wanted to play with him and the two bears she had received. The bears reminded him of Cori. At bedtime each night, he would read the books that came with the bears and wondered why Cori had written that book.

Her note back to him with the signed contract had ticked him off and ever since then his temper was short. It was late in the day about a month after he and Cori talked at the lake when Isaac came into his office and sat down in the chair across from his desk.

"What?" Seth snapped at him

"How's Mom?"

"She starts chemotherapy tomorrow. I hate it but it is necessary." It had been the leukemia diagnosis when all the blood tests were completed. The doctor was going to start a bone marrow donor search but the chemotherapy needed to start too.

"I had my test to see if I matched her in any way."

"I did too. Micah called and his request to be returned to the states is being evaluated. Mom told him not to come but he and I disagreed. He'll have his tests when he returns or if he returns. We are her sons, we should be the best match right?"

"I don't know, Seth. I haven't researched it. It makes logical sense but I don't know."

"Have you heard from Faith? How's Cori?"

"I talk to Faith every day. Cori, however, apparently talks to no one unless it is related to work or Hannah's House. Faith and Cori's family are beginning to be concerned."

"If Mom does well with this round of chemotherapy, I'm going to kidnap that woman and we are going to talk if I have to take her to the ends of the earth so she can't escape me."

"Have Mom invite her then don't let her leave your house?"

"She'd just come when I'm at work just like when she calls."

"I'm going to see Faith this weekend, I'll try to see Cori."

"Will you check on Mom's house while you are there?"

"I'm staying there because your Mom asked me the same thing."

"Thanks. I guess I'd better head home and see two of my girls."

"Cori's probably scared, Seth." Seth nodded his agreement and headed home to see his family.

Friday afternoon, Cori was in Millie's backyard looking over her flowers when she heard the door to the house open and close. She was startled and turned to see who was on the back porch.

Isaac walked down the stairs to the yard and started towards her "Well, this is a very good thing to find you here since we need to talk."

"Business?"

"Sure, to start with..." Isaac began "how's the bear coming along?"

"The seamstress showed me her progress this morning. It should come together nicely. A week at the latest."

"Seth wants it next Wednesday to take to the toy show in New York."

"What? No one mentioned that. I may have to overnight express it to him."

"I'll have to clear that with him."

"Please do. How's Millie?"

"Today was her first chemotherapy treatment."

"I hope she does well. I was just looking over her flower beds. I'll come back next week and work on them."

"We have more important things to talk about than flowers, Cori Lewis."

"No we don't, not if it is about Seth. He needs to go back to thinking I'm as worthless as gum on his shoe."

"That's nonsense, Cori."

Cori sobered and got an extremely stubborn look on her face. She was ready for battle. "I'm doing what is best for Seth. As his friend, you should be grateful that he doesn't have me in his life."

"Grateful? Hardly. He's miserable. He likes you Cori. He needs you...." Isaac began

"He turned away from me and my story" She exploded "and that was just because of my hand, what is he going to do when I tell him about the beatings because the stupid football team didn't win. What is he going to do when I tell him about the concussions and the broken ribs? I can't bear it, Isaac. I can't bear to see him turn away from me again. Tell him that I'm not worth it, convince it is in his best interest. I can't be anything to him or he'll live to regret it. Convince him of that."

"That is a load of crap. I will not convince him of that. You have to tell him everything and yes, he's going to be mad and upset. I doubt he turned away from you out of disgust. I'm sure it was because he was mad at that loser slimeball who tried to kill you. He already imagines what the sleazebag did to you, the reality might actually help him. Get in your car and go see him."

"No. It is better my way."

"You're being a pain in the butt."

"I'm saving him from himself. Goodbye." Cori walked out of the backyard and got into her car that was parked next door. Isaac watched her pull away then reached for his phone.

"Hi" greeted Seth

"How's Millie?" Isaac asked angrily.

"So far she is fine. Why are you so angry at Mom?"

Isaac sighed and calmed his tone "I'm not. I'm angry at Cori Lewis. She's a royal pain in the butt."

"Did you see her?"

"Yes, she was looking over your mom's flower garden when I arrived. We had a discussion."

"What did she say?"

"Basically it was, I'm saving him from himself. She doesn't want you to turn away from her again if she tells you more about her marriage."

"I didn't turn away from her" Seth shouted into the phone "I turned away because I was incensed."

"That's what I thought and that's what I told her but she refused to listen."

"I don't believe this. What do I do now?"

"I don't know, Seth."

"Thanks for trying. I'll see you at work." Seth disconnected and thunked his head down on his desk. Mindy came into his study and wanted to sit on his lap. He pulled her close and cuddled with her and the same bear that had begun this process.

Chapter 10

Monday morning Seth called Warm Comforts and demanded to speak to Cori or he would sue her for breach of contract.

"Don't threaten me, Seth Reynolds" Cori shouted when she picked up the phone. Thankfully Pearl had transferred the call to Cori when she was still in her apartment and no one could hear her shouting.

"Pack and get to Houston by tomorrow. Bring the bear that will go in our catalogue, my Beaches bear and bring a display for Teddybearville. We are going to New York on Wednesday."

"I don't work for you and I'm not doing this."

"Yes, you are."

"And if I don't?"

"I'll find some reason that you broke our contract and I'll tell the world."

"I have not broken any contact and publicity could get my residents killed."

Seth sounded fierce to get his point across. Mainly he was frustrated and just needed to see her, talk to her, or be with her; anything other than this long silence of the past month. "Then I suggest you do what I say."

"I lived being threatened every day of my marriage and you expect me to be scared of you when I have security guards surrounding me twenty four hours a day. Don't threaten me again." She said angrily.

"Be in Houston by tomorrow night." He said one more time.

"I thought I was the one who was deaf. What part did you not hear? I'm not doing it Seth and stop bothering me. Your bear will be expressed to you in New York."

"I want it personally delivered by you to me in Houston by tomorrow."

"It isn't ready yet. Why are you being this way?"

"I want you in my life, Cori. I didn't turn away from you when you told me about your hand. I turned away because I was incensed at that slimeball."

"The story doesn't improve, Seth. It would happen time and time again. I won't watch it. I won't watch it turn to disgust at me after you've heard the stories. Leave me alone."

"The sleezebag's abuse of you is not your fault, why would you disgust me?"

Cori had had enough and refused to argue anymore so she changed subjects as she wound the conversation down to the end. "Tell Millie hello for me."

"You will see her tomorrow when you arrive at my house. Do you still have the map?"

"No" Cori said abruptly.

"I'll fax you a new one. Be there Cori. Mom wants to see you. And pack for cool weather in New York, the forecast calls for rain. We will fly home on Sunday."

"I. Am. Not. Going." She said very succinctly.

"Please" Seth said quietly.

"Why is this so important? You live in a city with thousands of women, why are you focusing on me?"

"Because you are very special and I want you in my life."

"So we are just supposed to forget my past?"

"Never. I want to hear the stories and yes they will tick me off. But not at you, but at that slimeball sleeze that hurt you."

"He has a name and you can say it in my presence."

"Slimeball sleeze is a better name for him."

"And when I tell you the rest of the stories then I get to watch you walk away? Is that supposed to make it easier? Take my word for it and let the whole thing be done now."

"No. I won't walk away. You are just scared, Cori. You are scared that..."

Cori shouted interrupting his comment "And why shouldn't I be scared, Seth?"

"I would never hurt you." Seth shouted back.

The shouting on Cori's side of the conversation continued "But I might hurt you. Not physically but what if you trigger some bad memory and I make you pay for Roger's mistakes. I would hate it and hate myself."

Seth knew this shouting was not accomplishing his goal so he evened out his tone of voice and remained calm "Don't base anything on what if. Please give me a chance. We will go to counseling together and learn how to work through things."

"Goodbye Seth" she said quietly as she hung up on him. Seth heard the dial tone and slammed the phone down on the desk in his home study. When he looked up, his mother was standing at the door.

"I'm sorry if I disturbed your rest." He said coming over to her. "I was fighting with that stubborn friend of yours."

Millie gave her wonderful son a sweet smile as she explained "She cares enough to fight and I think that is a good sign. That hasn't always been the case."

Seth shook his head frustrated "It didn't do me any good."

"Patience, my dear."

"I'm trying. I'm headed to work, Mindy will go to school. Beth will be here all day. Call me if you need me."

"I feel fine, Seth. Go do your work."

"I love you, Mom."

"I love you too, Seth." Millie went into the living room to rest on the couch while Seth went to get his briefcase, his computer and his niece. They kissed Millie goodbye and headed out the door.

Seth was helping Mindy clean up the Candyland game on Monday night when his doorbell rang. Usually Isaac just came on in instead of ringing the doorbell and Seth wasn't expecting anyone else. He was overwhelmed when he looked through the security eye at who was ringing the doorbell. He rushed to unlock the door and throw it open. Before he could speak he heard "Don't. Just Don't."

"Yes, dear" he said pulling Cori into his house and into his arms "it isn't Tuesday, sweetheart."

"I said Don't. Did I not just say that?" she said without anger. "I hate to fly so Wednesday should really be interesting for you. Now are you glad you forced me to come?"

"Absolutely." He said still holding her close. "I wasn't expecting you to actually come."

"I wasn't going too but I want to try. I like you and I tried to forget you but even with a memory problem, I couldn't."

Seth's huge smile was hidden from Cori since she was still enclosed in the circle of his arms. He kissed her cheek "I'm so glad you are here. Why did you come today?"

"I wasn't sure I'd come at all if I thought about it anymore. I rushed Faith through helping me pack and get a display ready. She called Isaac and got the hotel information and overnight expressed my display stuff. Your Beaches bear will arrive Wednesday morning. It is done except for the buttons on his shirt. I can't do buttons or I'd do it myself. Faith rallied my family and Nia to shove me into the car and John actually followed me for twenty miles. I..." Seth kissed her to stop her rambling. Cori wrapped her arms around his waist at the same time. When he lifted his head, she continued "and I thought I could spend tomorrow with Millie after you give me a tour of your plant."

"Oh, shoot....Mom, Mindy, Cori is here." He shouted as he pulled her into the living room.

"Millie" Cori cried as she went to hug her good friend. "I'm so glad to see you."

"I'm thrilled to see you too."

"Hi Mindy" Cori greeted the little girl. "How are you?"

"I good. Did you bring more bears?"

"I didn't bring a bear this time but I brought you, your Uncle Seth and your grandmother matching snakes." She said reaching into the sack she had sat down on the floor before she hugged Millie. Cori pulled out three stuffed snakes that were all dressed up. One had a top hat and a tails. One had a big bonnet and a sundress and one had on shorts and t-shirt. They were adorable. "What do you think?"

"He cute." Mindy said as she gathered them all up to take them to Uncle Seth. "Look, the snake has clothes on."

"They do." He said accepting all three snakes and a little girl on his lap. "What do you tell Cori?"

"Thank you." Mindy said to Cori.

"You are welcome. Uncle Seth and Grandma, I may be mistaken but I think she missed the point of three gifts."

"I already have my gift." Seth said with a great deal of love in his eyes.

"Me too" said Millie as she patted Cori's arm. Cori blushed.

Cori rose from the footstool she had been sitting on. "What time are you taking me on a tour tomorrow?"

"You can ride with me to work." Seth answered. "Then I'll bring you back afterward."

"I'll meet you there. I'll drive from my hotel."

"You are not staying at a hotel and sweetheart, you got lost with a map. I am not trusting you to get to my office on your own; besides there is a perfectly good guest room right here."

"Seth, I arrived unexpectedly, I didn't plan to stay here."

"I don't care if you arrived unexpectedly. The guest room is available and ready for use."

"You are being stubborn."

"Yes, I am. Give me your car keys and I'll park it in the garage and bring your bag in." he said kissing Mindy then sitting her on the couch with the stuffed snakes. He held out his hand for her keys. It was a battle of stubborn wills before she gave in and handed him her keys. "Thank you, I'll be right back." He said with a huge smile.

"You could pretend to win with grace instead of a smug smile." She called after him. His response was just to laugh.

"That son of yours is....grrr" Cori growled.

Millie smiled at Cori before answering "he's ecstatic that you are here. Are you going to try for a relationship with him?"

"Try would be the key word. I'm so afraid for him."

"Give it time and the best you have to give and it will be returned a hundredfold to you."

"My best doesn't feel good enough."

"Trust me, it is." Millie soothed.

When Seth returned, he told Mindy that it was bath time. She gathered up her three new snakes, her two bears and as she walked past Cori, she took hold of her hand and pulled her along. "She read to me." Mindy told Seth.

"Okay" he said chuckling. "I'm sure she'd be thrilled too."

Mindy looked up at Cori "You read Snowflake friend book."

"I'd love too." Cori agreed smiling at the precious little girl. After Mindy's bath, Cori sat down in the rocking chair in her room and Mindy climbed into her lap with the three snakes and two bears and her Snowflake book.

Seth sat down on the floor by Cori's feet and as she read he caressed her leg. His first touch caught her by surprise and she jerked her foot away. Seth calmly reached over and brought it back closer to him. He was really glad that it was warm in Texas and that she was wearing shorts. Her legs were outstanding.

Mindy was almost asleep on Cori's lap when Seth recognized the last part of the book but instead of the regular ending, Cori kept going until Mindy was completely out and relaxed on her lap. Seth rose from the floor and eased Mindy into his arms and carried her over to the bed. Cori tucked the bears and snakes in beside her as Seth covered her up. Seth gave Mindy a kiss on the forehead just before he and Cori headed out of the door.

Seth took Cori's hand and pulled her into his bedroom. "You have gorgeous legs, sweetheart."

"You didn't help me read that story very much with your touches."

Seth winked at her "it didn't sound to me like you needed any help. You didn't even read it, you quoted it with an alternate ending." Cori gasped as his perception.

He continued "I have read that book every night since March 13th and sometimes two or three times. Believe me, I have it memorized and you didn't tell it like it was written on those pages. You told it like it was written up here." He said touching her head. "Now, if she doesn't like the old version anymore and wants the new version, you'll have to come every night and tell it to her."

"You are just too funny. Not." She grumbled. "She won't even remember the new version."

"I hope she does because you will have to move in with me."

"I'm going to go talk to your mother."

"I doubt it, I just heard her close the door to her room downstairs."

"But I didn't say goodnight" Cori said scrambling from the room. She raced down the stairs and over to the bedroom on the first floor. She knocked quietly on the door and went in after hearing Millie's answer to enter.

"I'm sorry. Seth was talking to me after I read to Mindy. I wanted to say goodnight to you."

"I'm glad you did but it would have been okay if you hadn't too. Tell my son goodnight and good dreams for me. You sleep too."

"I hope so." Cori answered. She and Millie exchanged a hug and Cori left the room. Seth was picking up the scattered toys in the living room when Cori returned. She assisted him but didn't talk right away.

"You will be a good dad." She said placing the last toy in the toy's box. "You are so good with her."

"I love her and there isn't anything I wouldn't do for her or Micah or Tish. I love having her here and I'll miss her when she goes back to her parents."

"All of that will make you a good dad."

"Well, that and the fact that I never grew up. I'm CEO of a toy company, how big a kid is that?"

"Just accept the compliment."

"I will when you will."

"What does that mean?"

"I think you are very beautiful." Cori rolled her eyes and snorted in disbelief. Seth smiled "I rest my case."

"What I said was true, what you said was not true."

"Are you always this argumentative?" he asked taking her by the hand and leading her upstairs to his room.

"No, I'm not. I hate to argue, that's why I'm the boss of my own company." She said. Seth crawled onto the bed and propped the pillows up and patted the space next to him for Cori. "Uh...." She paused "what are you doing?"

"Talking to you. What are you doing?"

"This is your bed."

Seth gave her an indulgent smile "Very good, now come over here so we can talk."

"Talk?"

"Just talk. Well maybe a hug and or kiss or two but that's all."

"Seth...."

"Cori...." He repeated. "Come here, please." Cori reluctantly went to sit beside him on the bed. He took hold of her hand and kissed it. "Do you get scared when someone gets angry with you?"

"You can get mad at me and even shout but until I relearn how to react to you, a physical distance might be the best solution for you if you are mad at me. I don't want you to be mad at me but I'm sure it will happen. Just don't walk away from me. I can't take it."

"That clears up one thing. Now, I apologize for turning from you at the lake. I thought that would be better than seeing how supremely mad I was at that man and what he did to you. I was not mad or disgusted or anything at you. I was so sad for you though. I could never imagine that someone would treat...."

Cori gently placed her finger over his lips to interrupt him "Seth, you are not the only person who cannot imagine it. The police wouldn't believe me the times I told them. It isn't something that a decent human being can wrap their mind around - but it happens. And it happens often. It could be happening on this block but you wouldn't know it. I have a full house consistently. As I told you on the phone, my story doesn't get better. I told you one incident, can you handle the rest? Even doled out in small increments? That is a question that you need to think about. I won't tell you every incident but there are some triggers that you need to be aware of and the reasons for reactions I might have."

"What kind of triggers?"

"The doorbell is a trigger. I don't scream or panic but I do react. I don't know why, I just become very timid and try to move away."

"I want to be with you. However you want to say it....dating, boyfriend/girlfriend, goin' steady....whatever, I want you to be the other half. I'll be sad to hear your stories but I want to hear them. I want a chance to show you that I won't be like the slimeball sleeze."

"I told you already, I believe, that you are nothing like the slimeball sleeze." Cori paused and shook her head chuckling "I can't keep calling him that."

"Yes, you can. It is really easy." Seth teased

"I was trying to be serious." She said with a huge smile on her face. Seth wasn't helping her concentrate because he was mouthing the words "slimeball sleeze" to her over and over again. "You aren't helping." She said laughing. "The memory problem kicked in and now I haven't any idea what I was going to say."

"Then don't say anything just come here..." he said pulling her around to where she leaned across his chest and on his opposite arm. When she stopped moving he asked if she was comfortable and when she nodded he continued. "I like how this feels." Cori leaned her head against his shoulder and nodded. "Will you go steady with me?" he said seriously but using slang from fifty years ago.

"Seth, I asked you to not walk away from me but I take that back. You have that right. My life stories may repulse you and I won't be what you think I am. So I give you permission to walk away. I'll even understand. But I won't ever be back. I wouldn't ever voluntarily see you again and I'd make sure Millie knew that too when she returns to Catesville. I am not even sure my being here now is a good idea. I have so much baggage, I have fears and scars and defects and it equals bad days, bad dreams, handicaps. You are taking on a lot, even if friendship was all you wanted. So, yes, I'm beating this subject to death but I'm going to ask one more time, are you really sure?"

Seth gently caressed her face. "I won't walk away. I'm here for the long haul. So, will you go steady with me?"

Cori looked at the wall and not at Seth "Will you always be honest with me and tell me that we aren't working out if we do go down a wrong path?"

"I would be honest but I don't think we will go down that wrong path."

"Then I'll go steady with you." Cori answered. Her eyes were moist as he looked into her face. "Sorry" she said wiping her eyes.

"No apologies necessary." Seth said gently. "Have I mentioned that you are beautiful?"

"Yes, you did but you should be careful asking that question, I may not always remember."

"I have some things to learn about you and you have some things to learn about me. Now, can I kiss you?" Cori nodded. Seth pulled her closer and touched his lips to hers. Cori wrapped her hand around the back of Seth's head and held him to her which indicated to him that she might accept a deeper kiss so he tried it and was overjoyed at the results.

"Oh, wow" she said softly "you are very good at that."

"I have no complaints about you either, sweetheart." He said kissing her quickly. The pair sat in the comfortable silence for a while. She traced the patterns on his shirt without realizing she was doing it. Seth didn't mind, she was touching him willingly and he wasn't about to stop her.

"You need to go to sleep." She finally said to him.

"Are you going to sleep?"

"I hope so" she answered honestly "I may draw for a while to relax. I've had a stressful day."

"Then stay in here and draw."

"I'm not staying in your room while you sleep. I'll see you tomorrow."

"That's too far away." He complained. Cori smiled at him as she eased away.

"Go to sleep and good dreams."

"Kiss first" he said catching her hand. Cori gratefully accepted his kiss them moved away from the bed. She waved again at the door and he blew her one more kiss as she left.

"Well, Miss Lewis, what brings you to our humble toy company?" Isaac teased her the next morning when he saw her and Seth in Seth's office.

"I'm saving you some work, Mr. Chief Counsel, I believe I was threatened with legal action if I didn't show myself today; so here I am as ordered." She said pretending to be fierce.

"And since the big guy here looks so miserable" he teased "I'm assuming that you and he are not playing nice."

"Him and me, play nice? Not gonna happen, Mr. Walters." She teased right back. Isaac reached across Seth's desk and they did a high five and knuckle knock. Cori laughed at them hamming it up so Isaac turned to her and they did a high five too.

"What are you doing here?" Isaac asked again to both Seth and Cori

"She wanted a tour so here we are. She's already commiserated with Abigail on putting up with me so it should be all uphill from here. We are heading to the factory floor."

"Business first, quickly."

"I'll wait in the hall." Cori offered.

"Nope, concerns you too. Faith confirmed, Beaches Bear is in the truck to be overnighted to New York. The hotel confirmed both Beaches and Hannah's displays arrived and the toy show has given you a little more space than expected so both enterprises should showcase very well. And Abigail has confirmed your flights but change in plans for the room. She booked you in a suite with two rooms etc."

"Thanks, Isaac" Seth said rising from the chair "Mindy is excited that her buddy is spending some nights. Beware, Cori's new gift to her was three stuffed snakes and they are with her constantly. I even saw them at breakfast. Also, if Micah calls the house with any news please call me in New York. Abigail will check my email but if she finds something, read it and let me know what he says. Any news on a bone marrow donor or surgery and I'll be on the next flight home. Anything else? Deal with it or call me."

"Got it. You guys have fun. Lovely to see you again, Miss Cori. I have to go call Faith and report that I've seen you and you are well. Oh, one more thing, no new arrivals last night."

"Thank you, Isaac. Tell Faith Hi for me."

"Gladly. Bye!"

"He's a good guy." Cori said to Seth after Isaac had left. "What is his story?"

"He is a good guy." Seth said coming around his desk to take Cori's hand and lead her from the room. In the elevator he continued his story. "We met my freshman year at the University of Texas. He lived in the dorm and his room was right next to mine. One day we started a conversation when both of us were dressed for a run. We ran together and became good friends. He is my age but super smart. He had started college at sixteen and when he graduated three years later and went to Harvard, we kept in touch. I went to Harvard for one year then decided that I wasn't interested anymore so I came back here and started as an accountant at Beaches. The owner liked me and groomed me to take over since he had no family. After I took over as CEO I lured Isaac away from the law firm where he worked and the rest is history."

"He is so good with Mindy too."

"I know. Tish is actually his cousin and he introduced her and Micah. We all stayed in contact and Mindy kept hold of his heart. Now the three of us take care of each other. Isaac is her best buddy."

"I don't know about that, from what I've seen, Uncle Seth, is pretty high on her list too."

Seth blushed "Yeah, she's my cutie and I used to call her my girl but someone else gets that honor now." Seth said pulling her into his arms when they were in private.

"Who would that be?" she asked smiling at him.

"You get three guesses. She's smart, beautiful, gorgeous, kind, loving, and talented"

"Hmmm" Cori pretended to think

"And ornery" Seth continued "She's full of surprises and makes the cutest stuffed animals and writes the best books."

"I'll agree with the animals but not the books. I don't write all of them and someone revises my stories."

Seth began to walk her to the factory floor but came to a conference room first so he pulled her inside. "Sweetheart, I listened to you quote a book last night."

"So?" she questioned not understanding his comment.

His smile was so sweet and genuine "I know you write the books you sell. Maybe someone does revise them and maybe writes some of them but it is your idea and I bet you have written lots of the books. They are great books for kids."

"Thank you" she blushed ducking her head. Seth cupped his hand under her chin and lifted it to face him. He lowered his head and kissed her. After removing his hand from her chin he pulled her into his arms for a hug. Cori wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned into him.

"Let's go see the floor." Seth led her from the conference room and into the factory. It wasn't like hers but it was well run. Most of the workers greeted him by name and he spoke back to them. When the foremen were present, Cori was introduced to them. Seth showed her the design team for her bear and they showed her some of their ideas. The tour took about an hour and at the end Cori was introduced to the production supervisor. He complimented her on her bear.

"How does he know?" Cori asked Seth as they walked back to his office. Seth told her the story of the staff meeting after Mindy had received her first bear. Cori laughed at the story.

"How did Micah know to get a bear from you?" Seth suddenly asked. He had been packing up the last minute items he needed to take to New York then he and Cori were heading home to spend the day with Millie and Mindy.

"Well" she began grimacing "I write to Micah over email sometimes and Tish. I have my website at the bottom of my emails and he saw it and when he had time then he looked it up and found the stuff animals. He knows about Hannah's House and what I'm doing there. When he was home last time, he wanted a tour of my grounds. Things were very far along yet but I explained the plan to him. He and Tish sent me flowers on the day we opened."

"And no one mentioned you to me for years." Seth said to the pieces of paper on his desk as he picked them up to file them.

"Why would they? You don't like me."

"I don't?" he said smiling

Cori grimaced at herself as she blushed "I mean you didn't like me."

"That's better." He said smiling but as he spoke again he was serious "I'm sorry. I didn't see the real you or maybe I did and I didn't like how that made me look. I was immature and inhumane to you."

Cori came up to him and gently cupped his face in her hands "Let's forget it and not talk about high school anymore."

"Thank you"

"You are welcome." Cori relaxed against Seth as he hugged her close. "Tell me about this toy show." She said stepping back from him. As he finished gathering what he needed he told her what happened. She was excited and hoped that she did well. After saying goodbye to Abigail, they headed back to his house and spent the day with Millie and Mindy. Seth held Mindy on his lap and read her a story before bed but she wanted Cori to also so Cori held her too and told her a different Snowflake story. Mindy fell asleep near the end but Cori finished the happy ending story and watched Seth who was watching her. Jointly they put the sleeping girl to bed and returned to Millie in the living room.

Chapter 11

"Sweetheart, just relax" Seth whispered in her ear. She had been white-knuckling the arms of the first class airplane seat for a half hour. Finally, Seth unclenched one hand and held it in his. "That's better."

"I am not a good flyer."

Cori couldn't see the indulgent smile on his face but she heard him when he questioned her "Why don't you draw or talk to me?"

"I can't. Only my prayers are keeping us in the air."

"Cori, sweetheart, look at me." He said gently. Slowly, Cori opened her eyes and looked at him. His face was so handsome. He had green eyes and brown hair. In their younger days she had thought he was cute until he started tormenting her then she stopped thinking about him other than when he said something about her that was unkind. Now, she was back to thinking he was very handsome. "What's wrong?"

"You are very handsome." She said leaning over to him. "In sixth grade when boys became not so yicky anymore, I thought you were cute. Then when you started picking on me you weren't so cute anymore but now, you are very handsome again."

"Are you flirting with me? And in public too?" he teased. Cori nodded and blushed. Seth kissed her hand that he held. "Well, I've told you before and you didn't believe me but I am right. You are beautiful. You haven't changed much since high school except you became skinnier."

Cori rubbed the scar on her face self-consciously and whispered "I changed"

Seth frowned at her "do you think that scar makes you not beautiful?"

Cori looked at her hands as she answered "Of course it does"

Seth tipped her face up so that they could see each other's eyes. "Wrong, wrong and wrong. Get that thought out of your head. It is incorrect."

"Seth..." Cori growled dramatically "I have a mirror."

"Not a very good one apparently. In the future ask me and I'll tell you what you look like."

"You are goofy."

Seth smiled and wiggled his eyebrows at her. "We have a long trip so do you want to sleep or talk?"

"Probably both eventually but start with talk."

"Alright then, what is your favorite color?"

"Yellow. You?"

"Green. Dark Green. Favorite movie?"

"While You Were Sleeping"

"Chick flick." He groaned "You are such a girl."

"Yeah and what's yours hotshot?" she laughed

"I'm the CEO of a toy company, what do you think it is?"

"No way, Toy Story?" she questioned. He shrugged. Cori laughed gently. "That's too cute."

"Cute? Not cute. Manly"

"Oh yeah, right." She teased.

"Favorite book or author?" he questioned trying to distract her.

"Snowflake Finds a Friend"

"That's cheating it is your own book."

"So?"

"Pick a different author."

"I don't read much. It is hard to remember the story line."

"Okay, I'll relent on books but it is still cheating to pick your own book."

"Gosh, Uncle Seth, you are not winning any points with your niece." Cori teased. Seth gave her a glare and leaned to whisper so that no one else in the plane could hear. "Honey, I want to make love to you eventually and I'm so glad to say that I am not your Uncle Seth." Cori blushed when his words registered.

"Yeah, how about them Texas Rangers?" she said without thought.

Seth chuckled and said quietly "Sweetheart, are you sure you want to talk about baseball now?"

"Hush" she growled "I'm going to sleep now."

"That works too, babe. I'm going to..." he started to say until she clamped her hand over his mouth laughing at the same time.

"Stop it" she laughed "What about your favorite book or author?"

"My favorite author didn't write my favorite book."

"Huh?" she questioned confused

"You are my favorite author."

"Ahhh, that's so sweet."

"I'm trying to get on your good side."

"You are succeeding."

"Whew" he said pretending to wipe his brow. Cori laughed. They talked and learned more about each other then took a nap. He held her hand as often as possible throughout the long flight. After arriving at their hotel and checking in, they ordered room service then decided to just stay in and enjoy their quiet evening. Seth called home to talk to Mindy and his mother then stretched out on the couch and pulled Cori to stretch out with him. "Tell me about Hannah's house and Warm Comforts."

"That's a long story." She said looking over her shoulder at him. He nodded and she continued "well, I guess the why is not too hard to understand."

"Tell me anyway." He said caressing her long blonde hair.

"After Roger's last attack and his death..."

"Slimeball sleeze" he interrupted

Cori continued after groaning at him "I had a lot of healing to do so I had lots of time to plan. John got me back to Texas and my parents looked after me. I had plenty of money but I didn't know what to do with my life. My mom gave me a stuffed bear and I was bored so I made clothes for it. Then I decided to make my own bear and I succeeded. Faith wanted one so I made her one. Nia wanted one so I made her one and they both showed them off and I got more and more orders. My father passed away suddenly and I was trying to keep mom going and myself. I worked with John on the business plan for the house and the factory. My mom surprised me by wanting to be the house mother at Hannah's house. She welcomes and cares for all my new arrivals. Unfortunately, she's very busy. We have a crisis hotline that is nationwide and then we accept arrivals from Texas. I don't really want to go outside the state yet. I mean, I would if asked but I think I want to just stay in state." she paused then changed topics. "John set up the non-profit organizations and Warm Comforts corporations. He, as you know is my legal counsel, but he also is the legal counsel for the women at Hannah's House if they want it."

"Wow" Seth said amazed. "That's two specialties."

"Probably more. I've asked him to find himself a partner so he isn't overwhelmed but he hasn't found one yet. It isn't just anyone who I would trust and he knows that."

"You'll find someone." Seth encouraged.

"Anyway, I always wanted something to do with cooking and crafts so I combined the two and made Hannah's crafts and Warm Comfort Foods. If a woman who comes to Hannah's House wants the opportunity to work, she has several choices; factory, craft shop, day care center or the restaurant. If they don't work for me, then they only stay a few weeks until John has worked to get them a new life outside of Texas."

"And the profits from Hannah's Crafts and the restaurant go to Hannah's House?"

"Nope"

"Where do they go?"

"Most go to the ladies themselves."

"Huh?"

"The profits go into a starting over fund for the woman. She gets a salary and then when she leaves she gets a bonus from the fund for help in starting over."

"How do you keep funded?"

"Slimeball sleeze was paid well for playing football and I do well at investing."

"But?"

"It is a little complicated but we've set up a system with the investing and the principal and interest and compounding and the money from the store and the restaurant. I do have a catering company and those profits are mine. I don't have the ladies from Hannah's house work there, it is outside of the compound and I can't control the security."

"I want to give the ladies something to target for so I give them a range of bonus that they can receive if they do this job or that job. Some don't want it and for some it is too much pressure. I don't advertise the Teddybearville animals because we might be overloaded with work and I won't force them to work under pressure. They have had too much to deal with. Most of them want to accomplish something and gain their esteem back. I don't have to hover over them to get the work done. It is something they take pride in."

"That's why you didn't want to be in my catalogue."

"Mostly. If we were too successful, it would add more pressure. They can't take it and they don't need it."

"But you would make more money to help more women."

"I know. When I've been up and running for a few years then I may create another line of toys and that factory would advertise."

"Darling, we could combine forces with that line and save you building another factory."

"Could be." She answered considering it. "I have some sketches that might work."

"Of course you do."

Cori hid her head under the couch cushion "Go ahead and tease me because everyone else does too. I can't remember if I have a meeting but I can picture animals dressed in baseball uniforms stationed around a baseball field. I can plan a whole Teddybearville display in my head but ask me if I ate lunch and I probably couldn't tell you."

"Which you probably didn't eat either." He grumbled. "You need to eat more."

"Why?"

"How much do you weigh?"

"I don't know. My clothes fit."

"That's a goofy answer. How much?"

"I haven't weighed since I went to the doctor the last time."

"When was that?"

"Are you the weight police?" she questioned trying to evade.

Something dawned on Seth due to her evasive answers "You've been told to gain weight by your doctor, haven't you?"

Cori sat up and looked at Seth aghast "How could you possibly guess that? How? I didn't tell anyone that."

"You are too skinny."

"Too skinny? In woman's world, there is no such thing."

"Darling, I'm going to make sure you eat three meals and decadent desserts while we are here."

"I only have to gain ten pounds more or less."

"At least ten, I'd say more like twenty."

"So, how about them Texas Rangers?"

"I knew it." Seth laughed. Cori grumbled and went to get some water from the kitchen area. When she returned, Seth pulled her close and kissed her longingly. Cori clung to him as their legs intertwined. Seth groaned into her mouth as he felt her response to him. He rolled over on her and she welcomed him. He tried to move away when he realized he might be scaring her but she didn't let him go. "Am I scaring you?" he whispered between kisses to her neck.

"Not at all" she said then groaned when he gently nipped her ear. "I like this."

"This kissing? This what?"

"This everything." She answered. Seth smiled wickedly and lowered his head to capture her mouth in a hot open mouthed kiss that went on and on. Cori clung to him to keep grounded and not float away with how light she felt. Seth buried his head in her neck when they separated. They were both breathing heavy.

"I should have kissed you in high school and found out how hot you were."

"Yeah" she teased "you should have."

Seth growled at her and took her mouth again. Cori was smiling happily when he looked at her after their kiss. "I'm going to shower and go to bed. I have a breakfast meeting early then I'll be back to get you to go set up our displays."

"I can go if you tell me where to go."

"Just wait for me, we will have plenty of time. Sleep in, order breakfast and enjoy it."

"Why did you want me to come with you?"

"Darling, what am I doing right now?"

"Talking to me." She answered.

"Yes and what else?"

"You kissed me and hugged me."

"And?"

"We cuddled on the couch here."

"And?" he questioned again. Cori looked at him confused. "All those things are the answer. I wanted to talk to you, be with you, kiss you, hug you and cuddle on the couch with you. I wanted you with me but I also want you to show off your creations and Teddybearville. You could get a lot of business from this show."

"I didn't bring sale items."

"I know. Isaac ordered when he was at the fair. Just take orders."

"I will. Thank you for including me. And thank you for wanting me here with you."

"You're welcome." He chuckled before kissing her again. "Good night sweetheart. Good dreams."

"You too." She said watching him leave the living room of the suite. Shortly after he left, she moved to her bedroom and sat down to draw.

"Do you sleep?" Seth asked Cori when he saw her the next morning before his breakfast meeting.

"Not much. Bad dreams usually."

"Oh honey, I'm sorry." He said hugging her gently.

"It isn't your fault, no need to apologize. Now, go to your breakfast meeting. I'm going to order breakfast, call home and see what's happening."

"Don't just order the breakfast, eat it." He teased after a quick kiss. "You look beautiful today."

"Thank you, now go." She said firmly but with a smile. Seth waved goodbye and Cori went on to do the things she had told him that she was going to do.

"How's New York?" Faith asked

"Cool. It looks like it is raining out. I hope Seth's meeting was here, he didn't take a coat."

"So, how is Seth?"

"Very good." She answered shyly. "How's Isaac?"

"Very good" Faith answered confidently. "He's coming to Catesville next weekend."

"That's good. How's business?"

"Good. The orders are really coming in. You've had twenty thousand hits on the website this week."

"You're kidding? Why?"

"Word of mouth, I guess. You have a full house and the factory is fully staffed and they should be able to handle the load."

"I hope so" Cori replied. "Don't schedule me anything with the restaurant or craft classes next week. I need to do some work at the restaurant on the foods."

"Are you working the catering at the Mayor's luncheon?"

"I'll go but not to work. I was invited to speak wasn't I?"

"Yes, but you schmoozed the Mayor out of it."

"Thank goodness."

"Anything else?" questioned Faith.

"No, I think not."

"Enjoy Seth and New York."

"What does it mean to enjoy Seth?"

"It means, enjoy being with him." Faith explained.

"Oh, well, yeah, I am doing that."

"You're weird" laughed Faith

"You're weird first" countered Cori laughing. "Goodbye" she said hanging up. She didn't know what she would do without Faith around to keep her going and helping her out. If Isaac married Faith, she will probably move to Houston. _I'll be lost without her_. Cori thought to herself later as she ate her breakfast. She was deep in thought and didn't hear Seth enter.

"What's wrong?" he questioned. Cori jumped. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to scare you."

"I guess I was thinking."

"Is something wrong?"

"Is Isaac serious about Faith? Marriage, serious?"

"I think so, why?"

"I'm being selfish. She helps me a great deal and I'll miss her if she moves to Houston and marries Isaac."

Seth knelt down beside her chair and caressed her hair. "Let's not jump the gun, sweetheart. I'm sure it won't be tomorrow."

"I know, I was just thinking about it."

After a quick kiss Seth spoke "Think about it later, are you ready to go down?"

"One minute, then I will be." She said rushing to her room to brush her teeth very quickly. She rushed back and they headed down to the toy show.

Seth watched Cori as she sat up his display. He hadn't asked her too but after she was finished with her portion she came to help him. As he unpacked the items then she would take them and place them around the booth. He almost stopped her but decided to let it go. She was so good at this stuff so he pretended to be busy so she would finish the whole thing. Her portion looked very inviting and now his portion did too.

"Thank you" he said when she stepped back to observe the whole setup. Cori looked at him confused. "It looks good." He said nodding to the booth.

"Oh, crap" she said softly "I'm sorry. I put together your display my way not your way. I'm sorry."

"I like it a lot, it looks really inviting."

"I just got carried away." She justified. "Change it to how you wanted it. I'll just go the ladies room and never know there were changes."

"I'm not changing it. It is perfect. Thank you and I mean that."

"You are too nice to me."

"Relax Sweetheart, I love it and thank you for the help. Now, I'm going to go grab us a quick lunch before the show opens. You stay here and charm anyone who comes by." Cori smiled and he kissed her briefly. As he walked away, Cori moved back behind the booth and was rearranging something on his booth that she thought could look better.

"Can I help you?" she heard asked from behind her. She turned to find a man standing there who was dressed like Seth was. He had a Beaches Toy Company shirt on and cream colored pants.

"Have a met you before and I forgot?" questioned Cori.

"Believe me, we have never met before. I would definitely remember someone as beautiful as you. My question is why are you in my booth and where is my boss? Oh, and will you have dinner, breakfast, lunch and dinner with me?"

Cori blushed "No, on the meals. And can I assume Seth Reynolds is your boss?"

"Yes, I am" answered Seth as he walked up behind the man who was talking to Cori. "Temporarily though if he keeps flirting with my girlfriend." He growled. The man grimaced and shot an apology look towards Cori.

"Hi Seth" the man greeted.

"Hi Michael" Seth returned. Seth handed Cori the lunch and the drink. "Cori Lewis, please meet my New York representative and employee, Michael Carter. Michael, this is Cori Lewis, my friend, my girlfriend and the designer of our newest product." Seth said pointing to the bear that was lying on the miniature beach towel under the miniature beach umbrella.

"Hi Cori" Michael greeted

"Hi Michael" returned Cori.

"That's adorable." Michael said to Cori. "What is Teddybearville?" he asked pointing to the other half of the booth.

"Cori's other business. I invited her to share our space since she designed the bear. It is a non-profit organization that Cori founded. She'll handle her side and we will handle ours."

"These are fabulous" Michael said inspecting the baseball display the Cori had up. Cori blushed "are you the designer of these too?"

"Yes" Cori answered shyly "I design all my stuff." She said pointing to the catalogue. Michael moved to inspect the other display and then onto the catalogue.

"Exceptional" he said in awe. Seth hugged Cori to his side. "Truly exceptional" He said again. "Oh, I get really carried away around toys." He said moving back towards Seth and Cori.

"Cori, Michael stays in New York and sells Beaches' products on the east coast. He is really good at his job."

"Thanks boss." Michael grinned. "I have to go get some stuff from my car. I'll be right back." Seth waved him away and went to eat lunch with Cori.

"Did he frighten you?" Seth asked.

"No." she said gently "He was very nice."

"Good. I wasn't sure when he would arrive or I would have warned you."

"Not a problem. Seth, sweetheart, I don't need your protection but I appreciate your thoughtfulness. Relax and enjoy the toy show."

"You will get my protection anyway though, my dear."

"I figured as much" she teased. "You are a good guy." Seth winked at her and they finished eating their lunch. Michael returned to the booth and he and Seth talked business for a few minutes while Cori wandered quickly over to the booths that were nearby. She returned to her display when the announcement was made that the toy show was opening. For the next six hours, she barely had time to look at Seth and his displays because she was swamped with questions, comments and orders. When they had packed up their displays for the evening, Seth wished Michael a good evening and walked an exhausted Cori back to their suite.

"Well, what did you think?" he questioned when she collapsed on the sofa.

"I never expected so much interest in stuffed animals." She spoke into the couch cushion. "I have six months worth of orders in six hours."

"I expected that." He said sitting beside her and beginning to massage her shoulders. She groaned and Seth continued "I expected you to be very busy. I have a ton of orders for the Beach bear also. People love him."

"I'm glad." She groaned as he worked on her shoulders. "I'll give you ten dollars to keep this up for about ten minutes."

"I'll even do it for free, sweetheart. But are you hungry?" he asked and she nodded. "Let's order room service and while we wait, you go take a hot bath in my bathroom where the whirlpool tub is."

"I will." She said turning over and standing up. Seth pulled her into his arms and hugged her. "Thank you for bringing me. I'm exhausted but it was fun."

"I'm very glad you are here with me. Tomorrow will be busy too so let's get you relaxed so you can have a good night's sleep."

"Mr. Seth Reynolds, you are so sweet to me." She said just before giving him a kiss. They ordered their dinner and then Cori went to her room to change out of her clothes and into the robe. Seth was talking on the phone when she walked back through the living room and into his room and then the bathroom. She was relaxing in the hot water when he knocked on the door.

"Close your eyes if you come in here" she said nervously.

"Darn" he swore gently as he opened the door "you ruined my fun." He teased.

"Seth" she said exasperated "we've been a couple for two days, aren't you rushing things?"

"Can I rush things?" he asked as he closed the door but stood there with his eyes closed.

"Clarify what that means..." she said cautiously

"Can I open my eyes?"

"We haven't ummm I mean, I haven't told you....well, I ummm..."

"Cori, sweetheart, are you trying to tell me that you have scars and you are nervous for me to see them?"

"I'm not just nervous, Seth, I'm terrified. They will bother you."

"They will probably infuriate me, babe but they won't bother me in the sense that I will not like looking at you sans clothing."

"Don't be infuriated, please, I'm scared enough."

"Alright, I'll leave." He said reluctantly.

"No, wait." She said stopping him "you can stay and you can open your eyes." Seth turned around and opened his eyes. Cori had hers closed as he approached her in the tub. He crouched down on the side of the tub and gently caressed her hair for several minutes but didn't speak. Cautiously, Cori opened her eyes and saw him watching her face. "Seth?"

"My mom said to tell you Hi."

Cori was relieved to not discuss how she looked lying the tub without clothes on. She was too shy for that discussion right then. "How is she feeling?"

"So far, so good. From what the doctor told us, the next time and the subsequent times of chemotherapy will not be so good."

"How many times will there be?" she asked as tears formed in her eyes. Seth wiped them away as they ran down her cheeks.

"We won't know for a while. There are a bunch of factors."

"Can I visit her sometimes?"

"She'd love it and so would I. Come whenever you want to."

"I will. I promise."

"Cori, sweetheart, I want us to grow closer together and think about a future together, you know that right?" Seth questioned still gently caressing her hair and face.

"Marriage?" she asked without looking at him

"I'd like to think so. What point is dating if you don't plan for a future with that person?"

"How are we going to date? We live in two separate cities."

"That's logistics. We can talk by email and phone. We can travel to the other city but if Mom gets too sick, you will have to come to mine. We will figure it out and we won't rush things. Well, I'll try not to rush things." He laughed at himself.

Cori worried her hands in the water. "You snuck up on me sort of fast, Seth."

"Tell me about it" Seth chuckled "Fast or not. I want this, you and me," he said motioning with his hands "to work out. Are we on the same page?"

"Yes" she agreed quietly "I just request your patience with me sometimes. I don't want to mess up and hurt you."

"I have the same fear that I will hurt you, sweetie."

"Then how about we make a pact to be extra cautious with each other?"

Seth smiled and leaned in very close to her "Can I seal that pact with a kiss?"

Cori laughed and teased him "Do you normally seal your business deals with a kiss?"

"Honey, you are not a business deal....you are pure pleasure."

"Kiss me then." She said. His mouth settled on hers almost before she finished her comment. Cori's face was flushed with pleasure when he lifted his mouth from hers.

"Babe, dinner should be here shortly so I'll leave you to your bath. However I have one thing to say...."

"And what's that?"

"I like your birthday suit." Seth said with emphasis. Cori blushed but still laughed.

"Thank you." She said as he approached the door to leave. "You are a good guy, Seth Reynolds. I'm glad we aren't enemies anymore."

"I'm glad about that too and I hate myself that we ever were."

"The past is over for us, we move forward. Deal?"

"Deal" he answered blowing her a kiss which she pretended to catch. Seth winked at her and left the room. Cori exited the tub and wrapped up in her robe to return to her bedroom to change for the evening.

Seth held up the last bite of chocolate cake to Cori to eat. She closed her mouth over the fork and took the bite. Her eyes closed and she savored the bite and Seth thought he was going to die of the pleasure of watching her eat. "Oh man" he groaned.

"What?" Cori asked but Seth pulled her close and kissed her thoroughly before she expected it. "Wow, what caused that?" she asked innocently when she could breathe again.

"You did. You and the goofy chocolate cake." He answered.

"Huh?"

"I swear for every date and if we get married, every night at dinner I'm feeding you chocolate cake."

"What did I do?"

"Never mind" he groaned "it is a guy thing. Just prepare yourself to be kissed thoroughly if you enjoy it as much as you just did."

"It was good cake." She said going to the couch where he had flung himself. She touched his hair and caressed it "what did I do?"

"You enjoyed it, sweetheart." He said turning over to face her "Your expression was what I want to see when I make love to you some day."

"Oh" she said quietly but sort of self-conscious.

"No, don't" he said gently cupping her cheek. "It was perfectly wonderful. I loved it." Cori blushed and Seth raised up to kiss her. Cori wrapped her arms around his neck and he lay back against the back couch cushion and pulled Cori closer. The ringing of a telephone ended their embrace. Seth reached for his phone but it wasn't his. Cori saw that it was hers but didn't recognize the number.

"This is Cori Lewis" she said trying to catch her breath.

"My name is Keith Bonds and I'm a New York City policeman. I'm in the lobby of your hotel, can you come down here?"

"Is there a problem?"

"I have a situation that I hope you can help with."

"Okay, I'll be down. I'm assuming I'll know you when I see you."

"I'm in uniform, yes."

"Alright, I'll be right there." Cori said ending the call. "There's a policeman in the lobby who says he has a situation. I'm going down to meet with him."

"I'll come with you."

"Ah," she stalled trying to explain but Seth understood without an explanation from Cori. He interrupted "If it is confidential, I'll stand at a distance but I'm not letting you go alone. Your security guards aren't here to protect you."

"True." She said "Let's go. I don't look very professional but he'll have to deal with that." She said looking down at her sweats and t-shirt. She grabbed her belongings including her coat and they went down in the elevator to the lobby.

Cori saw two policemen in the lobby "I'm glad you are here." She whispered to Seth. He gently squeezed her hand. Cori stepped up to one of the men. "Are you Keith?" she asked.

"I am" he answered "are you Cori?"

"I'm Cori Lewis" she said extending her hand. The police officer shook it. "This is my friend Seth Reynolds."

"I'm Keith and this is my partner Sam."

"Hello" Sam greeted as Cori reached to shake his hand.

"How can I help you?" Cori asked when they were seated in a room off the lobby.

"My brother" began Keith "is a police officer in Houston." Cori had figured this was about Hannah's house. "I have a situation here that could use Hannah's House. I called my brother to find out about places in Texas so this woman and her kids can get out of New York. He mentioned your facility. I called and spoke to a Frances who gave me your cell phone number and told me that you were here in New York."

"Sir, there are places in New York. I have those names too."

"I know but this situation calls for more distance."

"Texas is a great distance."

"She needs it."

"Where is she?"

"She and the children are in the hospital right now."

"Can I speak to her?" asked Cori

"We can take you to her."

"That would be good. There may be other options before making them travel that distance." Cori rose from her seat as did the others. After donning their coats, Seth and Cori found themselves in the back of a New York City Police squad car.

"Remind me to not break the law in New York City." She said on the ride. "Not that this isn't a great deal of fun but I'm sure I would rather see New York from a limousine instead."

"Sorry" Keith offered "budget constraints, you know" Cori laughed as she hoped he would appreciate her joke.

"Gentlemen" she addressed the police "I'm not making fun of your situation. But this woman needs positive attitude and not more frightened faces. You are confident and I'm confident we can help her. That's the attitude we take to this woman."

"It's bad, Cori" Keith spoke solemnly "Very bad."

"I'm sure it is but our attitude will help. If we are positive she is going to be okay, she'll begin to feel that way too and if she does, then her children will."

"Got it." Keith answered. They arrived at the hospital a few minutes later. At the entrance to the woman's hospital room there were more police. Cori began to wonder who this woman was.

"Is she familiar with one of you?" she asked Keith or his partner Sam. Keith nodded. "Then come with me but easy does it." Cori pushed opened the door and entered followed by Keith. The woman was pretty bruised and injured. Cori had seen worse but not in a while.

"Jaime" Keith whispered "this is Cori Lewis"

"Hi" she whispered weakly.

"Hi Jaime" Cori answered. She directed Keith to back away from the bed so Cori could talk to her. "Keith tells me that you need a safe place to go but do you want to travel to Texas?"

"No, I'd rather stay here but my husband is well known and found us before."

"I know that story." Cori said. "Have the police been involved before?"

"I never went to the police until tonight. I went directly to the shelter."

"There's a difference when the police are involved. I have to ask, where is your husband now?"

Jaime looked to Keith to answer. Cori swung her gaze to him too. "He hasn't been located yet. We believe he is with a teammate."

"Teammate?" Cori questioned.

"He's a hockey player for the New York Beavers" Keith answered when Jaime didn't. Cori nodded her head. "But we are looking for him and well known or not, this will be investigated."

"See Jaime, there's the difference." Cori encouraged Jaime. Jaime nodded slowly and Cori continued "I have a crisis facility in Texas for just this situation and if we determine that it is best, we'll get you there. My fear is though that it is too far for you and your children to travel. You are hurt and frightened and I understand, I've been right where you are only my husband was a professional football player. I want you to rest. I'm going to talk to Keith and some other people who will be glad to help. I want to see your children too if you approve. I need some details on ages and injuries before I can get you the best help. Close your eyes and rest. I'll be back as soon as I know some options. Okay?" Cori said soothing the frightened woman. Jaime nodded and then closed her eyes. Cori gently touched her hand and then motioned Keith out the door. When she was alone with the woman, Cori spoke again.

"I promise you that this gets better. You'll wake up one day without fear and angst. I know that it doesn't seem like it now but you will. It takes one day at a time and sometimes one minute at a time. Just rest." Cori said again as she turned to leave.

"Cori" Jaime said quietly "Thank you."

"Sure" she said gently. Cori exited the room and went to Seth who hugged her hard.

"I'm okay" she said a moment later. "Just memories" she said

"I know sweetheart" Seth returned. "What's the plan?"

"We have to figure that out. This may take some time, go back to the hotel and get some sleep. I'll be back when there are some answers."

"I'll stay" he said strongly. Cori started to argue but he gave her a stubborn look. "I'll stay" he repeated. Cori nodded and turned to the police. Keith introduced her to the supervisor of his precinct and the group moved to a private waiting room.

"Gentlemen" Cori began "failure is not an option here. I may look like a ninety-eight pound weakling but I have grit and determination. I also have to ask, will your district attorney prosecute this man even given his famous face in New York?"

"Yes" answered the supervisor. "I've spoken to my Chief and he spoke to the district attorney. She's actually looking forward to it."

"Good" Cori smiled "That takes us out of the fear stage and into planning. A woman's shelter is not what Jaime needs and she doesn't need my facility unless it is a last resort. She can't travel that far and I'm assuming her kids are just as injured."

"They are" answered Keith.

"I'm going to go call a place and see what I can arrange. Give me some details on the children." She requested. Keith filled her in on their ages and injuries and Cori wrote them down. "Excuse me for a minute" she said. Taking Seth's hand, she led him from the room. Outside of the hearing of the police she called her mother.

"Hi Cori, did you hear from a police office?"

"I did."

"Is the woman coming here?"

"Not unless it is a last resort, she is too injured to travel that far with three injured children."

"Can you help her there?"

"I'm going to try. I just wanted to let you know the situation so you could stop preparations."

"How did you know that?"

"Because you are great at it. Just relax for now until I tell you differently."

"Okay, darling daughter. Call me back"

"I will. I love you, Mom."

"I love you too, Cori" Cori hung up and took a deep breath. Seth hugged her again.

"Thanks for being here" Cori said hugging him in return.

"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. Make your calls, babe." He encouraged. Cori nodded and found the number of the facility she hoped would take the woman and her children.

"This is Michelle Standers" Cori heard as the phone was answered.

"Hi Michelle, this is Cori Lewis from Hannah's House in Texas."

"Hi" Michelle answered cautiously "How can I help you? What's the trouble you have?"

Cori briefly explained the police and her involvement and asked if the woman and her children could come.

"Absolutely" answered Michelle "When?"

"I don't know that yet. She is pretty injured. Her doctor will have to release her and the kids."

"I have the space for whenever. Do you want me to contact the police?"

"That would work for me. Here is the officer's name." Cori read off the information for Keith and then thanked Michelle for her help. The two women disconnected.

"Where is this place?" Seth asked as they walked back to the police officers.

"Vermont. I went there to visit when I was planning mine. It is beautiful, restful, secluded. I planned my security the same as hers."

"Yours is thorough."

"Hers is just as thorough if not more. I haven't been in a couple of years. We talk by email frequently though."

Seth pulled Cori to a stop "You are amazing, Miss Lewis. I'm so glad I know you."

"Thank you. I just need to help this woman."

"I know." Seth answered. When they reached Jaime's hospital room, Keith was on the phone and Cori assumed it was Michelle. When he disconnected, he spoke.

"You're good." He said happily. "She'll be here in the morning."

"That stays in this room, gentlemen. The same with my involvement. Publicity in our situation is a bad thing. If you need a story, I'm the department's victim's assistance officer. My name is Julie Forrest."

"Yes ma'am." They answered.

"I'm going to go see Jaime and tell her the news then I step out of the picture and Michelle steps in. She's great at what she does."

"Thank you, Cori" Keith's supervisor said shaking her hand. "We'll take care of Jaime until she doesn't need us anymore."

"Thank you" Cori answered. Jaime was still awake when Cori returned to her room.

"Hi, you are supposed to sleep." She gently scolded.

"Did you?" Jaime asked

"I was unconscious and my husband was dead. He ran from the police and wrapped his car around a tree."

"Oh" Jaime said.

"Okay, let me tell you what is going to happen. A friend of mine from Vermont will be here in the morning. Her name is Michelle Standers but you keep that to yourself. She's going to take care of everything and keep you safe. Trust me, trust her. But remember, she and you need the privacy so do exactly what she says. I won't see you again before you leave here for my safety and yours. Take care of yourself. Think positive that this will be resolved and take it one day at a time. I'll keep in touch with Michelle."

"Thank you" Jaime said crying gently.

"Hey, no tears." Cori gently "You will be okay. This will be a memory someday. I've been there and I know."

"My husband isn't dead."

"Doesn't matter if he is or he isn't. Your life with him is over and you'll begin a new life. You'll thrive and you'll be confident again. You'll learn from this experience and you may even love again. Now, go to sleep."

"Thank you again for everything."

"I'm sorry that you needed me but I'm glad I was here to help. Take care of yourself." Cori said gently touching Jaime's hand before leaving the room. After a few more issues with the police, Seth and Cori were returned to their hotel room.

"I'm glad to be back here. I'm sorry you were dragged into this."

"I'm not." Seth said "you did a wonderful job. Can I ask a question though?"

"Sure" she said as they sat down on the sofa again.

"Why the great need for your privacy? The slimeball sleeze is dead."

"True. But his father isn't."

"What?" Seth asked aghast "Mr. Morgan threatened you?"

"He could. The Morgan's are not thrilled with me. But he isn't my biggest concern....a spouse doesn't really care who is standing in their way. If my name isn't public, I'm safer. Michelle is the same way. We are targets just by the business we have. I take the security of myself and my women seriously."

"But you gave your name in front of a thousand people in Houston?"

"I only say that my name is Cori."

Seth thought back to that night. "I guess that is true. Anyway, we need to go to sleep or we will have a tough time tomorrow." He said looking at the clock saying it was midnight.

"Good night, Seth" Cori said standing. "I'll see you in the morning? For breakfast?"

"No doubt about that." He answered hugging her. Seth kissed Cori goodnight and they both went to their rooms.

Seth had gotten used to sleeping lighter since Mindy lived with him so he heard Cori's shouts and ran to her room. She was thrashing and fighting off an invisible opponent when he gently caught her arms in his hands.

"Easy, sweetheart. You are okay." He said calmly. "Cori, wake up."

Cori stopped thrashing and woke up confused at why someone had her arms in their grasp. "Seth?"

"Yeah"

"What are you doing here?"

"You were having a nightmare. I came to help you."

Cori let out a long sigh "I'm sorry. I knew better than to try to sleep tonight. Go back to bed, I'm fine."

"I'll stay. I'm just going to hold you for a while and we will talk about this another time. Get comfortable."

"I can't sleep with you. I am not used to someone sleeping with me."

"You slept with the slimeball sleeze, didn't you?"

"No, I didn't. I don't want to talk now but no, I didn't. He didn't want me too and I didn't want too."

"Cori, ummm, never mind. Just rest and I'll hold you."

"Seth, you'll sleep better alone."

"No, I actually won't. I'll be too worried about you. Close your eyes and snuggle with me." Seth said gently as he wrapped her in close to his body. He tried to relax his breathing and go back to sleep and eventually he did.

Cori woke the next morning when her alarm went off and was surprised to find she had slept with Seth and that she had actually slept. She smacked the alarm clock and sat up leaning against the headboard. "Good morning" she greeted when Seth looked at her.

Seth sat up next to her after giving her a quick kiss "Good morning to you too. I enjoyed sleeping with you."

"I guess I did too" she smiled "I didn't expect to sleep but I did."

"Good, I'm glad. Will you sleep with me again tonight?"

"Maybe. I'll see tonight?"

"I'll be persuasive." He teased

"You'll probably be exhausted from last night."

"We'll see. I'm going to go get dressed then we can go down to breakfast?"

"Sounds wonderful. I'm starving."

"See you shortly." He said climbing from the bed. He turned back to the bed and leaned over and kissed her again then left the room.

_Oh my_ thought Cori _I may be falling in love with that man_. Cori rose from the bed and went to get ready for the day.

When Seth and Cori met in the living room a few minutes later, Seth pulled her close and kissed her for a long time. After releasing her, he spoke. "Will you sleep with me again?"

"Dog with a bone, Seth."

"Will that get you to sleep with me again?"

"No, not necessarily. I'll decide tonight, let's go." She said taking her purse and pulling him out the door. After breakfast and their arrival at the toy show, their day got extremely busy and other than Seth bringing her a quick lunch, they did not speak.

Chapter 12

Seth had a decision to make. Cori was asleep in his arms on the couch so he had to decide if they stayed there together for the night or if he carried her to his bed and slept with her there. He had been brushing her hair and she was out like a light, nothing had disturbed her. After careful consideration, Seth gently moved her off of him and rose from the couch. In his room, he turned down the covers then returned to tenderly pick her up in his arms and started for his room. Once inside his room, he laid her on the bed.

"Mmmm" she muttered in her sleep but did awaken. Seth finished his nighttime routine then slipped into bed beside her. He wanted to give her a kiss but was afraid she would wake up then leave him to move to her room and that was the last thing he wanted. Seth was tired also so after cuddling up to her, he fell asleep very quickly.

When Seth woke the next morning, Cori was still sleeping next to him. He wasn't sure that she moved all night long. Gingerly rising from the bed, he went to freshen from the night and then returned to her in the bedroom. She looked so beautiful and he was glad that they had all day today to do whatever they wanted. As if she sensed him watching her, she jerked awake and looked around startled.

"Good morning, Beautiful." Seth said gathering her in his arms. Cori rested her head on his chest. His voice was gentle as he spoke to her "I loved sleeping next to you last night."

"How did that happen?" she questioned "I don't remember."

"I'll admit that I took advantage of the situation and brought you too my bed instead of waking you up."

"I'm still dressed so I'm guessing that we didn't...?"

"That wasn't exactly what I was talking about sweetheart. If we make love we are both going to be awake and aware of what is going on. Last night, I think I could have talked out loud and you wouldn't have awakened."

"I was a little tired. How long did I sleep?"

"You got a good night's sleep. When was the last time that happened?"

"Do I have to answer that?"

"No, I can guess. Before your marriage?"

"Yeah" she answered sadly. Seth rolled over until she lay on top of him. Her eyes were sad as she looked at him.

"Do you want to talk about it?" he questioned as he moved her hair away from her face.

"No" she answered enthusiastically "the last thing you want to hear about is my marriage."

"That isn't entirely true. I want to hear what you want or need to tell me. Are there specific times that I won't want to hear it? Yeah probably. We do need to talk about it sometimes though."

"Not right now. Today, I'm relaxed and I don't want stress messing that up."

Seth smiled "Then what do you want to do today?"

"I have a couple of places that I could show you from my days here at NYU and then a quaint little restaurant for dinner."

"I'm in your hands, babe. Take me wherever you wish to go."

"There's no reason to rush, I kind of like it right here." She said smiling at him. "You are pretty comfy."

"How about if I do this?" he said rolling her over under him. Cori squealed in surprise but was not scared. "I like this position too." Seth lowered his head and kissed her longingly.

Cori had a puzzled look on her face when Seth backed away. "What?" he asked confused.

"Why did you hate me in high school? Did I do something to you that I didn't know about?"

"You didn't do anything to me which makes what I did even worse. You were just smarter than me and more talented and comfortable with who you were. I needed to prove I was this big jock with all these friends. Looking back it seems even more petty than I can imagine. And those friends aren't even in my life at all. One of them was...." Seth threw his hands up in defeat.

"Are you blaming yourself again for Roger?" Cori asked but Seth did not answer. "Don't Seth, Roger is to blame and only Roger is to blame. You could have been nice to me in high school and my best friend and Roger would have still been the abuser that he was."

"But maybe not to you. I might have protected you from him or found out earlier that I had feelings for you."

"And maybe I wouldn't have Hannah's House or anyway to help women who need serious help. I'm sorry I brought it up. I still am surprised about us so I wanted to know what happened in high school."

"It was because you were different than me and I felt inferior probably."

"That's almost funny. I always felt small and invisible. Do you know I didn't tell anyone except my family that I was going to NYU to school? I didn't even tell Faith and Nia and they were my closest friends. I wrote them after I arrived. I was so sure that it would be one more thing for you to taunt me about. I'm sorry I made up that list and presented it to you."

"I'm sorry there was a list to make up. Micah will laugh his head off when he finds out about us."

"I'll give you a kiss to comfort you."

"Promise?"

"I promise." Cori said confidently. Seth smiled and kissed her again. After a quick shower they met in the living room and left to sightsee around New York.

Cori took Seth to a street fair that she remembered from when she lived there. The neighborhood brought out their crafts and items to sell. It had become a little more commercial and new vendors had joined but she still recognized some of the people from her days there.

One of the new vendors was a jewelry stand and the jeweler was making a necklace as people gathered around to watch. It was the finest chain Cori had ever seen and the butterfly pendant was exquisite. He had one on display and Cori asked his assistant if she could see it. The assistant handed it to her and she held it in her hands. Cori had always dreamed of having the freedom of a butterfly to change from a cocoon to a beautiful creature and then gain the freedom to fly away. She looked it over and handed it back to the assistant. "It's beautiful. He's an artist."

Seth had remained quiet during Cori's perusal of the necklace. She wasn't really paying attention to him so when she moved on to look at another booth, Seth stayed behind to talk about the necklace. Cori was still looking at the next booth when Seth joined her.

"Are you okay?" he asked

"I am. Can you do a butterfly as a stuffed animal?"

"I couldn't" he laughed "but you could. I can't draw a stick figure."

Cori laughed "That's pathetic. And I don't believe you."

"Someday I'll draw you a picture and you'll see what I'm talking about."

"You are on. My sketch pad is in my room at the hotel."

"You'll see." He laughed. Cori shook her head at his nonsense and they continue looking through the street fair.

For dinner that night, Cori took Seth to a cozy restaurant that smelled of homemade pies and comforting foods. She asked if a certain person was still the cook there and was told yes.

"How do you know this place?" Seth asked after their waitress had left them.

"I worked here in the kitchen with DJ. He taught me how to cook. Well, I mean restaurant cook. When I caught on, he gave me some leeway and I created a few soups and other entrees for them. In fact, you ordered one of my dishes."

"Then I'm sure I'll love it."

"Are you buttering me up for something?" she teased

"Would I do that?" he teased right back at her. When she nodded, he leaned over and kissed her. "Oh, I haven't done that enough today."

"Done what?" she asked confused.

"Kissed you. I'll rectify that later though. Will you sleep with me again tonight?"

"I shouldn't. If I have nightmares, I'll keep you awake too."

"Sweetheart, I already told you that I want us to have a future together. I won't sleep apart from my wife."

"You might change your mind about that." She said sadly.

"Cori, sweetheart, look at me" He said when she looked downcast. Seth reached over and cupped her chin to raise her head. "I won't change my mind. If you have a nightmare, then you'll have a nightmare. Losing sleep is minor thing. Honey, if I was the one who came to you with a past that caused nightmares, would you be upset if I had a nightmare and woke you up?"

"No, of course not." She answered enthusiastically.

"Then I won't either. Is that clear to you? You can't run me away because you have nightmares. Now, will you sleep with me tonight?"

"Yes" she answered shyly. When Cori looked at Seth he was smiling gently and lovingly at her.

"Cori Lewis!" Seth heard before he could respond to her. He turned and saw a big man delivering their food. "It is about time you came to see me again." He said enthusiastically as Cori rose from her chair and hugged him. He lifted her off the floor with his hug.

"DJ, this is my friend Seth Reynolds. Seth, this is DJ Fremont. He owns the place."

"It is nice to meet you." DJ and Seth stated almost simultaneously. DJ sat down with them and encouraged them to eat.

"Where have you been? Will you come back and work for me?"

"I live in Texas, DJ. I'm only here for the toy show that was this past week."

"Move here." DJ pleaded

"I can't. I have a few businesses of my own in Texas. But if you ever get to Catesville, then stop and see my restaurant."

"I will. What besides a restaurant? You said businesses?"

Cori looked to Seth. "I have a factory that makes stuffed animals and I also have a craft shop. And we, he and I, may start another line of stuffed animals."

"You and those animals" DJ laughed and turned to Seth "when she worked for me, at every break I saw her drawing stuffed animals and placing them in a book she was writing. I knew that was her passion and I hoped that she would succeed with them."

Seth nodded "She succeeded. Go to warmcomforts.com and look at her work."

"I will." DJ promised. "I have to get back to the kitchen but if you ever change your mind, I want to hear from you."

"Thanks, DJ and I'm glad to see you again."

"Me too, sweetie. Send me a couple of your recipes and I'll try them out."

"I will." Cori agreed. DJ touched her shoulder as he passed by on his way back to the kitchen.

"I have some competition." Seth stated as he continued to eat his meal.

"Excuse me?" she questioned. "What competition? For what?"

"For your affections, from DJ." Seth answered.

Cori looked totally confused and her comment proved it. "I don't know what you are talking about."

Seth paused and sat his fork down on the table "He is in love with you and he wants you."

"Are you insane?" she questioned aghast. "He does not. He barely liked me when I first started here. I was yelled at on a nightly basis."

"That was camouflage and a long time ago. If I wasn't here, he'd be asking you to his place for the night."

"First of all, you are so wrong. And secondly, I don't sleep with men on a first date. Since I don't date that would be impossible. You are seriously mistaken."

Seth shook his head confidently. "I bet you that he calls you this next week and starts a conversation in hopes of finding out more about you. If I win, you cook me dinner and if I lose, I'll do whatever you want."

"I'll take that bet and when you lose, I want a back massage."

"You got it. And when I win, I want this meal cooked by the creator. It is very good."

"Thank you."

When the waitress delivered the ticket for their dinner, Seth opened the ticket packet and found DJ's card inside. He handed it to Cori and smiled smugly. "I am so going to win this bet."

"He only gave me this" she began waving the card "so I can send him the recipes."

"And then call to discuss them together." Seth said confidently. Cori gave up arguing with him and put the card in her wallet. She made a note on her PDA to send the recipes to DJ.

Back in their room, Seth was talking to his mom and Mindy again so Cori stretched out on the couch and was watching him. He smiled and waved to her and she winked at him. Cori could tell he was talking to Mindy and when he told her that he would see her tomorrow, Cori knew the conversation was ending. Seth went to his room and then returned a few seconds later. "Close your eyes and sit up." He instructed as he returned to the room. Cori had a moment of panic then remembered that this was Seth and there was no reason to fear. Seth saw the quick panic pass over her face. "I won't hurt you."

"I do know that. Just a bad moment. They'll happen and I'm sorry about that."

Seth settled down behind Cori on the couch and eased her back against him. He gently placed the necklace he had purchased around her neck and moved her hair aside to fasten it. "This is not as beautiful as you are, but it is close. You can open your eyes now."

Cori picked up the necklace and saw it was the one from earlier today. "It's beautiful and how did you get it?"

"I bought it when you moved on to another booth. You were distracted a million miles away so you didn't see me."

"You shouldn't have but thank you. It is beautiful."

"I want to spoil you, Cori. You deserve it and I want to do it."

"Why?" Cori questioned sitting up and turning to look at him.

"I just told you, because I want too and you deserve it." Seth kissed her quickly before she turned back around and settled down against him.

"Thank you" Cori said quietly around the lump in her throat. No one, outside of her family, had ever thought that about her before or acted on it.

"Hey, hey" Seth began when he heard her sniff "what's wrong?" Cori shook her head but didn't speak because she was so emotional. "Beautiful, tell me" Seth encouraged. It was a few minutes before Cori could speak. She wiped the tears from her cheeks with her hands then wiped her hands on her sweat pants.

She cleared her throat in order to speak "That caught me off guard. Sorry"

"What caught you off guard?"

"You being nice to me and giving me a present."

Seth was stunned "Oh Cori...."

"No, don't" she said gently "just hold onto me and keep me close."

Seth held her gently but as close as possible. He thought _I would keep you close forever if you were ready. I'm ready to marry you, Cori Lewis. I'm ready to spoil you for the rest of our lives. I'm ready to love you and have babies with you._

"Do you want children?" he asked after a few minutes of quiet.

"Yes" she blushed. "I've always liked children. Do you?"

"I do like children and I do want children. I'm thinking a couple dozen."

Cori laughed "Good luck with that plan, Seth. I was thinking more like two."

"Dozen?"

"No, two" she laughed again. "I do not want to be pregnant twenty-four times."

"There's adoption, foster children and pregnancies."

"I'm still thinking just two. Maybe three or four but I am getting old."

"We are not old."

"I'm also not married yet so I wouldn't be conceiving these imaginary children tonight."

"We could" he whispered in her ear. Cori gasped and spun around to look at him.

"Whoa, fella, where did that come from?"

"I was almost teasing." Seth soothed.

"Almost?"

"I know in my head that it is too soon for us but I'd make love to you tonight if I could."

Cori rose slowly from the couch and paced. She rubbed her forehead, wrung her hands and kept walking back and forth.

"Is there a problem?" Seth questioned when she had paced for over five minutes and not said anything.

"Maybe." She paused "Sort of" she paused "Yes. No. I don't know. I don't know what to say to you. I don't know anything about...." She said waving her hands.

Seth rose from the couch and when to Cori to stop her pacing. He gently cupped her face and kissed her before leading her back to the couch. He sat her on his lap and tipped her head up to look at him.

"I said I would make love to you if I could. That means, if we were married so relax that it won't be tonight. Secondly, you can always tell me anything or ask me anything. Okay?" Cori nodded "And what do you mean, you don't know anything about...? What?"

Cori blushed again and hid her face. He heard her whisper "making love"

Seth tipped her head up and questioned her with his eyes. She shook her head in silent communication. His jaw dropped "You were married." He said quietly.

"He couldn't with me. We never...."

"Holy cow, Cori. You never had sex with him?" Cori shook her head. "But at the lake, you said he took you to the doctor because you gave into him in bed. Tell me what that meant."

"It wasn't sex. It was other things but not sex."

"So you never had sex with Roger Morgan."

"Never with anyone, actually."

"Oh heavens" he said astonished. "I...."

"Is that bad?" she questioned

"No, NO!" he said firmly. "I just had let my imagination run rampant on how he might have treated you and I'm thrilled to know that he never raped you."

"No, he never did. I slept in one room and if he was home, he slept in another room. I was his punching bag but not in bed. Honestly, he had many mistresses or girlfriends and then traveling with the team or endorsements. I was around for one reason only."

"I won't say I'm sorry that you never had sex with him. I'm sorry about how he treated you but not about the fact that you never slept with him."

"Even on our honeymoon, he didn't sleep with me. I found out a few months after our honeymoon that he had at least two women that he slept with on our honeymoon."

Seth said captured her mouth with his. He devoured her mouth, he tasted her long and hard. Cori held on and enjoyed his passion. She was not scared of him and was so glad that he was showing her about physical passions between a man and woman. They were both breathless when he released her. "Rest assured that on our honeymoon, I will be making love with you."

"Our honeymoon? Are you teasing me?"

"No!" he answered firmly but didn't elaborate. "Come on gorgeous, we have a long day tomorrow and we need sleep. And you are sleeping with me tonight."

"Yes sir" she saluted teasing him. Seth playfully growled at her before kissing her hard and long again.

That night as they settled in bed together, Seth held her very close but very gently and when he heard her deep breathing whispered _I love you_ then fell asleep himself.

Chapter 13

"Seth, I need to go on home to Catesville." Cori argued as they pulled into his driveway. They were home from New York and it had been very successful. She had so many orders that her team was going to be busy making animals and also making the clothes for Beaches' bear.

"You are tired and I don't want you driving tonight. It would be very late when you arrived home. You can leave sometime tomorrow." He said gently "Or not" he said under his breath.

"What was that?" she questioned. "I didn't hear that last part."

"I said or not." Seth answered.

"Or not? What does that mean?"

"You don't have to leave tomorrow or at all."

The garage door closing almost masked his statement but Cori heard it anyway and was stunned. "I am....I have a business to run too. I have....." Cori defended

"I know but I can still miss you." Seth interrupted.

"Seth, don't make me feel guilty. I...."

"I'm so sorry" he said quickly but without anger "that was not my intent. I just wanted you to know I will miss you and you don't have to leave Houston."

"I'm going to miss you too and I need to go home."

"Tomorrow" he pleaded. Cori relented and exited the car. They met at the trunk to unload their baggage and Seth pulled her close and kissed her.

"Well, this is an interesting turn of events. My little brother kissing the woman he couldn't stand." Seth and Cori turned to the voice that interrupted their kiss.

"Micah!" Cori cried and rushed to hug him. Seth hung his head knowing that this was just the start of the teasing he could expect.

"Hi Micah" Seth greeted as the two men embraced. "I'm thrilled and not so thrilled to see you. When did you arrive?"

Micah helped Seth carry the bags inside as he answered. "Let's talk about that later, I want to hear how you came to be kissing this woman."

"That would be your fault." Seth grumbled. "All your fault." Cori laughed at Seth's grumbling.

"I hear it has something to do with a stuffed bear." Micah teased.

"Yeah, something like that." Seth grumbled again. The trio had reached the living room and Mindy rushed her Uncle Seth. He leaned down and picked her up. "Hi munchkin. I missed you."

Mindy laid her head on Seth's shoulder quickly. "I miss you. Daddy home."

"Did he surprise you?" Seth asked Mindy who nodded then reached for her Daddy. Micah gathered her close and she hugged him hard. Seth patted her back and walked to his mother who was resting on the couch.

"Hi Mom. I missed you too." Seth said hugging his mother after Cori hugged her. "When did he get here?"

"This morning." Millie answered. "He surprised us." Cori sat down next to Millie and Seth sat next to her.

Micah sat down on an overstuffed chair and held Mindy in his lap. She picked up the bear that her father had given her and played with it on his lap. Seth groaned and shook his head.

"I don't know why you are blaming such a cute little bear." Micah teased.

"Keep it up." Seth growled. Cori leaned over and kissed his cheek as she promised she would if Micah teased him.

"How's business, Cori?" Micah asked.

"Hannah's house is full. Warm Comforts is doing well."

"She was a hit at the toy show." Seth interjected proudly. "And my bear that she designed had a huge beginning."

"And what about you two?"

"Doing well" Seth answered. Cori blushed and glanced at Millie who was beaming.

"Knock it off, friend" Cori whispered to Millie. "I won't make you cookies again."

"Oh, I bet you will." Millie laughed. Seth hugged Cori and kissed the side of her head.

The living room occupants talked until Beth called them all to dinner. After dinner, Seth was called away to the phone and Cori went to freshen up. She found Seth waiting for her outside the upstairs bathroom. He pulled her into his room. "I need to head home, Seth" she stated before he could talk. "Micah is here and needs your guest room."

"Personally, I'd sleep with you in the guestroom but I won't. Micah will stay in here since Mindy knows to come in here in the night if she needs me. You can stay in the guest room and I'll stay in the basement. I have that other bedroom down there next to the whirlpool tub."

"Then let me stay down there and you stay where Mindy can find you."

"Micah's here, she won't need me."

"You are being stubborn, but okay."

"Good" Seth agreed. "I am exhausted and I'm going to shower and go to bed. Stay here and wait for me. Or come in and talk to me."

"I'll wait out here." She said sitting on the chair in his seating area.

Seth leaned down and got really close to her ear that still worked. "Someday my beautiful girl, I'm going to make love to you in that shower. I wouldn't even mind if our first child was conceived in there."

"Seth!" she said astonished. Before she could speak again, Seth kissed her quickly then left to go shower. When she heard the shower go on, she hesitated a moment then surprising both of them, she entered the bathroom with him.

"Welcome" he said enthusiastically. "What brings you in?"

"You and your outrageous comment." Cori grumbled. "Are you trying to embarrass me?"

"No" he answered "I'm introducing you to some facts of our life to come."

"You don't know that we are going to get married."

"I hope we are going to get married."

"Are you serious? We've been a couple for since Tuesday. That's hardly a long courtship."

"I didn't say we were getting married this week. I can wait patiently for the most part."

"Seth Reynolds, you are crazy. You need sleep and to have your head examined."

"Yes, definitely on the sleep and maybe on the other but it doesn't change the fact that I'd like for you to be Mrs. Seth Reynolds someday."

"We have so much to talk about before you go making those plans. You may change your mind."

"I really doubt it. But I'll agree that we have much to discuss. But not tonight, my brain is shutting down fast." Seth shut the water off and reached out for his towel. He wrapped it around his waist after drying off and stepped out of the shower. Cori stared speechless at him.

"What?" he questioned at her stunned look.

"You are so well built. I, uhhh, never mind."

"Come here, sweetheart" Seth beckoned. Cori numbly approached him. Seth captured her hand and placed it on his chest. She wouldn't look at him but gently caressed his skin and the muscles on his chest. "Touch me all you want, gorgeous."

"You are the gorgeous one." She said in awe. Seth chuckled and kissed her longingly.

"I'm crashing fast." Seth said when they stopped kissing and Cori stepped back.

"Then I won't keep you. Good night, handsome."

"Good night beautiful." Seth kissed her quickly one more time then she left the bathroom and walked on to the guest room. Seth gathered up his clothes after getting into his sweats. He wished his brother, Mom and Mindy and good night then headed down to the basement. He laid down on the bed and fell asleep almost immediately.

Cori was drawing in the guestroom when she heard a quiet knock on the door. Assuming it was Seth, she quietly called out "Come in". The door opened and Micah entered.

"Why aren't you sleeping?" she questioned him

"My body is on a different time zone. Why aren't you sleeping?"

"Bad dreams." She answered.

"So, you and Seth, huh? Tell me about that."

Cori sat her drawing aside and wrapped her arms around her knees that she drew up. She rested her head on them and answered Micah.

"You'll have to ask him mostly. He just one day became interested in me. I didn't do anything. I wasn't even talking to him yet and then all of a sudden he told me that he was thinking about me and wanted to see if we could work things out. I told him no but he didn't like that answer and wrote me some letters. I said I'd try but then we went to have a talk and we crashed and burned before we even started. I told him about my hand and he turned away from me so I figured that it was over. Monday, he threatened me and we fought again. Monday night I arrived here and we talked and now here we are."

"I'm glad that he finally woke up to what he was missing."

"Thanks, I think. I'm scared, Micah. I'm not good enough for him. I...."

"Hold it right there my friend. Take that thought out of your mind. Good enough is too hard to live up too. You are very special Cori, and Seth finally sees that. Explore this and see where it goes."

Cori looked down "He says marriage and two dozen kids."

"Two dozen? That's ambitious. I have one and she can run me ragged."

"Micah, focus....marriage to me."

"Yeah, Cori, I figured that out for myself."

"Micah, he wants to marry me and we..... just since Monday night."

"So, I wanted to marry Tish after one evening. We Reynolds men know when we have found a good thing."

"You are not helping. Talk to him."

"I will." Micah stated. "Tish isn't scheduled to be home for two more months so you can't get married until after that."

"Micah!" Cori exclaimed.

"Shhh" Micah soothed. "Don't wake Mindy and Mom."

"It's your fault. Go away." Cori grumbled pointing at the door.

"Welcome to the family" Micah said kissing the top of her head. "You'll be a good wife to someone who loves you and not someone who wants to hurt you."

"Thanks Micah." Micah left Cori's room and Cori lay down to sleep.

Seth was dressed for work when Cori found him and Mindy and Millie in the dining room the next morning. He rose from his chair and kissed Cori. She went to the buffet that was set up and helped herself to breakfast before sitting down next to Seth. She greeted Millie and Mindy and began to eat.

"The sports page is very interesting this morning, Cori." Seth said handing the section of the paper to her. "Very interesting news out of New York" he added when she started to refuse it. Cori took the paper and read the headline out loud.

"New York Beavers Player Arrested" She smiled to Seth. "isn't that interesting? Spousal and child abuse it says." Cori continued to read. "Spouse could not be reached for comment. I hope she's okay."

"Me too" Seth answered with a wink.

"What are you two up too?" Millie questioned.

"Seth can tell you later. I have to eat and rush out. I have a meeting at noon."

"Stay" Seth pleaded.

"No, I can't and we talked about this." Cori answered firmly. After eating she went to gather up her things. Seth followed her.

"I'll miss you."

"We have phone and email."

"Come back this weekend."

"Seth, let me get organized for this week and I'll let you know."

"I'll beg." He stated with said puppy dog eyes

"Kiss me goodbye, goofball." Cori was wrapped in his arms before she finished the sentence. After a long kiss, he released her. Cori hugged Millie goodbye and told Mindy to give her Daddy a hug for her then Seth walked her to her car. One more long kiss, then Cori backed out of the garage and headed home to Catesville.

"Cori" began Pearl through the intercom. "There is a DJ Fremont on the phone, he says you know him."

"I do" answered Cori "put him through"

"Here he is" Pearl answered.

"Hi DJ." greeted Cori. "How are you?"

"I'm good. How are you?"

"I'm good" answered Cori. "Did you get the email with the recipes?" Cori had emailed him some recipes on Tuesday when the reminder came up on her schedule.

"I did. I tried one out last night as a special and the wait staff heard rave reviews."

"Good. I'm glad."

"So, Cori, when are you coming back to New York?"

"I don't know that I am, DJ, why?"

"I was going to take you around and convince you to stay."

"Didn't I tell you that I have businesses here to run?"

"Yeah, can't you run them from here?"

"Not really. You do not need me as a chef so why do I need to be there?"

"We could get acquainted again and see what happens." DJ answered honestly.

"DJ, you are very special and I need to explain some things to you. Do you have a few minutes?"

"Yes" he answered. Cori began her life story since she left New York after graduation. DJ did a lot of swearing when she told him about her marriage. When she described her crisis facility and Warm Comforts, he said he was proud of her.

"And one other thing DJ, that guy I was with when we were at your restaurant...."

"He beat me to it, didn't he?"

"For now, yes he did. We may not work out because we have a past history from our teen years but we are certainly talking about a future. I'm sorry, DJ."

"Don't be." He answered "But call me if you change your mind about him. I'll even come to Texas."

"You could come anyway." She offered.

"Maybe. Send me a wedding invitation."

"We aren't quite there yet, DJ."

"I'm psychic and can predict the future."

"You are crazy and a good guy."

"Thanks" he said. "Call me anyway and send me any more recipes."

"I will. Bye DJ"

"Bye Cori. Make sure he treats you right."

"I will."

Cori disconnected and chuckled slightly. She had a bet to pay up on. The email program opened and Cori typed Seth an email. _I owe you. I lost the bet. Dinner. When?_ After clicking the send button, Cori went back to reading the report from her accountant. She had asked him about building another housing facility on the remaining land that she had originally purchased. He was advising her to wait a year or two and the numbers he provided agreed with that.

"Hi Seth" Cori greeted when her cell phone rang.

"Hello, beautiful. So, I was right."

"Yes, DJ called me a few minutes ago."

"And?" he gloated

"You are so rotten." Cori groaned "He wanted to know when I was coming back to New York so we could get better acquainted and he could convince me to stay."

"I knew it." Seth laughed gently. "Anyway, how does Friday night work for you? Isaac and I are coming to Catesville. Isaac has a date with Faith and I want a date with you."

"Is Millie coming? Mindy and Micah?"

"Nope. Just Isaac and I. I want to look over Mom's house. Joycelyn said it needs some work so I want to assess it. Micah will stay with Mom here in Houston. You and I can have the whole weekend together if you aren't busy with other things."

"John's birthday party is Saturday afternoon and you are more than welcome. And that seems to be the only thing on my calendar."

"Excellent news. Then I'll see you Friday."

"I'm looking forward to it."

"Oh, me too." He said enthusiastically.

"Goodbye Seth"

"Goodbye, sweetheart."

Cori went back to reading after hanging up with Seth. He was like a kid in a candy store. Cori knew she wasn't "falling" any more, she was definitely in love with him. But oh, that was a terrifying thought. She could be more trouble to him than she was worth. Deciding not to think on those terms, she went to the factory floor to check on some of her residents.

Chapter 14

After a few last instructions for her catering staff, Cori waved goodbye to them and headed for her car. The mayor's luncheon had gone well and the food had been well received. The meeting was not all that exciting. She had been asked to chair the committee for the July fourth dance but she had to refuse since her schedule was already booked for that day. It was a bad day for her and she planned to spend it alone. July fourth was a bad reminder of one of Roger's worst attacks on her and she, in the past, had been very emotional on that day.

Cori's attention was not focused on her surroundings so the man who stepped in front of her caught her off guard. "Cori" he stated firmly.

"Mr. Morgan" Cori returned. "What are you doing in Catesville?" she said stepping back from him. He advanced on her.

"I want to talk to you."

"We have nothing to talk about."

"Get in the car, Cori, now." Mr. Morgan clamped his hand around her wrist and pulled her towards his car. Cori fought to get away but his grip was too strong. Mr. Morgan opened the car door and shoved her inside. She hit her head on the car before she could duck inside. He didn't seem to notice or care when she cried out. Before she could scramble back out of the car, he was around and in the driver's seat and captured her arm in his grip again. "I just want to talk to you then I'll let you go."

"No!" she said struggling. Roger's father started the car and headed out of town towards Chickory Lake. When they reached there, he left the car and Cori was able to locate her emergency beacon and push the button. She knew help would be arriving soon.

"Get out of the car" he said angrily. Cori moved slowly and exited the car. He again gripped her upper arm pulled her towards the old deserted boat docks.

"Let go of me. Now" Cori struggled which made him grip her arm that much harder. She knew he was leaving bruises and that he wouldn't care. "What do you want?"

"I want my son's reputation cleared up."

"Forget it. He beat me for four years and I'll never recant that truth. He was just like you Mr. Morgan. A wife abuser."

"I've never touched my wife in anger."

"I wouldn't believe it even if she told me that. Roger was sick and so are you. Mr. Morgan, I go nowhere without someone knowing where I am and I carry an emergency locator beacon which I have already sounded. The sheriff and my security staff will be here within minutes."

"You little witch." He growled and raised his hand to backhand her just like his son would do but he heard the sirens approaching. "This isn't finished. Recant your story or you'll be sorry."

The first security car pull in just in front of the sheriff's car as Mr. Morgan reached his car. Cori's security chief, Kane, was out of the car and running towards her as the sheriff pulled in behind Mr. Morgan's car.

"Are you hurt, Cori?" Kane asked.

"No" she answered "He threatened me but heard the sirens before he could strike me."

"Let's go talk to the sheriff." Kane directed. Cori followed him but stayed by her security car and watched as Mr. Morgan was questioned. He was detained while the sheriff came and asked Cori some questions. She repeated what had happened and refused to press charges against him for transporting her against her will. She just wanted him removed from town. He promised to leave and the sheriff released him.

"Take me to my car, Kane."

"Yes, ma'am." He agreed. Cori directed him to the community center where the meeting had been held. "How did he know where you were?"

"I guess he asked or followed me. I don't know."

"I'll follow you home."

"I have some errands to run first so go back to the factory. I'll be there later. I still have the emergency locator if something else happens."

"Okay, I'm reluctant to agree with that though. I think the errands should wait."

"I'm okay. I promise." Cori stated "And thank you for the quick response."

"Anytime. This one time, Cori, I'm pulling rank on you. Turn the beacon on and leave it on. I want to know where you are at all times."

"I'm the boss." She grumbled good-naturedly.

"Not this time. Turn it on." Cori fumbled with her purse and extracted the emergency beacon. It did have a GPS function on it and so she turned it on. Kane picked up the signal on his tracking unit then reluctantly let her leave his vehicle. He waited until she was safely in her car and leaving the parking lot before he turned his vehicle towards the factory compound.

Cori called Doctor Jane as soon as she was able.

"Hi Cori"

"Hi. Can you squeeze me in?"

"Yeah, sure. Come on over. What's wrong?"

"I'll tell you when I get there."

The clinic that housed Doctor Jane's office came into view a few minutes later and shortly Cori found herself in an exam room waiting for Doctor Jane.

"Alright, what's wrong?" Doctor Jane asked as she entered.

Cori was holding her wrist where Mr. Morgan had twisted it. "I may have a sprained wrist, I hope it isn't worse than that."

"What happened?" Cori repeated the story to the doctor. Doctor Jane knew Cori's entire story and grew angry. She didn't show it to Cori but instead examined her and took her for an x-ray. The pictures didn't show a break so Doctor Jane wrapped it up and gave her instructions for the care. "Leave that bandage on for several days except to shower. I mean it, do not use that hand or remove that bandage." Cori reluctantly agreed and left the office.

A few minutes later, Cori pulled into the parking space in front of her apartment and called to Kane to report that she was back safe and sound. She thanked him once again for his help and then went into her apartment. The door had barely closed behind her before the tears started to pour down her face and the sobs overtook her. She flopped down on her bed and cried until her eyes were almost swollen shut. She was in pain from the wrist injury and from the memories that had resurfaced. After the tears abated, she went to get an ice bag for the bruises on her upper arm and called her mother.

"Hi" Frances greeted.

"I'm not feeling very well, Mom. Can you take my shift on the crisis line?"

"I'd be glad too. What's wrong?"

"I'm just feeling a little under the weather. It will pass but I'm just going to go to sleep. If we have an emergency, wake me up."

"I can handle it."

"I know but if you need me..."

"Go to sleep, darling. Feel better."

"I will. Thanks, Mom." Cori pulled on her pajamas, turned off her phone and crawled in bed. The tears started to flow again but eventually Cori drifted off to sleep. When she awoke a few hours later from the throes of a nightmare she was not surprised. It was about two am so she checked her messages and heard Seth's voice. She didn't know what to do about him, he was going to be so angry about Mr. Morgan. It was Friday morning and he was due to arrive later that day, she didn't think she could disguise the bandage or the bruises on her arm. It was going to be a showdown when he arrived.

Joycelyn welcomed Cori into the house early Friday afternoon. Cori carried a bunch of grocery sacks that blocked her from seeing the wrist bandage. "I'm almost jealous" Joycelyn began "an honest to goodness homemade Cori Lewis meal. How does Seth rate?"

"I lost a bet." Cori laughed. "And this is my payment."

"Well, I would stay and hassle that boy but I have the night off so I am out of here unless you need me."

"I'm good. I just need to get started cooking or it won't be ready until midnight."

"See you later then." Joycelyn said gathering her purse. Cori waved goodbye to her and then locked the doors. She hated to be that afraid but she didn't know where Mr. Morgan was. She sat her emergency locator beacon on the counter right next to her and began to prepare the meal for her and Seth.

Cori had decided to tell Seth as soon as he arrived what had happened. Contrary to what she had told Joycelyn, the meal didn't take that long to prepare and if he was angry and kicked her out the meal would be prepared and he could still eat it.

Frances had checked on Cori that morning and Cori was forced to tell her the truth. She was mad too and livid that Mr. Morgan had come to town. The sheriff had called her and asked how she was doing. Kane had been concerned when he saw her that morning too. He was surprised to see the bandage on her wrist and gave her a menacing look that disapproved of her not telling him that she had been injured. I am the boss Cori repeated to his disapproving look. He didn't seem impressed nor did he change his stance with her. Cori ignored him and went to her office where Pearl and John grilled her and then John began paperwork to have a restraining order against Mr. Morgan. It would be filed on Monday.

Cori was drawing at the kitchen table when she heard two car doors shut. She jumped and raced towards the window. She was relieved to see that it was Isaac and Seth. They walked around to the back door so Cori rushed there to let them in.

"Hi" Seth greeted surprised to see her already. "Yum, it smells wonderful in here. I am surprised you are here already though."

"I needed to cook ahead of time." She answered. "Hi Isaac"

"Hi Miss Cori." He returned. Cori shut the door behind the men while they carried their bags up to the rooms. When they returned, Cori hid her arm behind her back. Seth swept her up in a hug and gave her a kiss.

"I missed you." He whispered in her ear.

"I missed you too." Cori answered. She lowered her head and regained her emotions before Seth could see the tears. Isaac had slipped around her and retrieved a bottle of water from the refrigerator.

"Miss Cori" he began "you have one minute to start your explanation before I do it for you."

Cori glared at him. "Faith has a big mouth."

"Thirty seconds and counting" Isaac stated.

Seth looked confused. "What are you talking about, Isaac?"

"Cori has something very important to tell you and she has ten seconds to start her explanation."

"Are you always this big of a pain in the butt, Isaac Walters?"

"Yes" Seth and Isaac answered simultaneously. "Times up, Cori. Seth, Cori had a run in..."

"I'll do it." She interrupted. "I was going to tell him anyway, big mouth."

"I'm waiting." Isaac announced smugly.

"Sit down, Seth." Cori stated turning away from him. Seth sat down at the kitchen table and Cori leaned against the cabinet by the sink on the opposite side of the room.

"Yesterday, Roger's father forcibly abducted me and took me to Chickory Lake."

"What?" Seth exploded. Cori blanched and tried to back up.

"Sorry." He calmed down. "Go ahead."

"In the process he sprained my wrist and put a few bruises on my arm." She said holding up her arm and her bandaged hand. "I carry an emergency locator beacon with me at all times and I was able to call in the troops before he could hit me but he did injure me slightly."

"What did he want?" Seth tried to ask calmly.

"The usual. Recant my story that Roger abused me and clear his reputation."

"Never" Seth said angrily.

"Easy Seth" Isaac soothed. He had seen Cori try to escape by backing farther away from the angry man. "Are you okay now, Miss Cori?"

"I am fine. The bruises and the sprain will heal and John will file for a restraining order on Monday."

"If he doesn't, I will." Seth stated. Cori blinked back the tears.

"I'm sorry, Seth. He caught me off guard."

"Hey, hey" he said rushing to her. "No apologies from you sweetheart. This wasn't your fault."

"You aren't mad at me?"

"No not about that. Why didn't you call and tell me though?"

"I was so upset. I just wanted to hide away. I didn't know what to do."

"We will talk about it later, okay. Come here." He said gently enfolding her in his arms. Cori was sobbing within a few seconds. Isaac caught Seth's eye and motioned that he was leaving. Seth nodded and soon he and Cori were alone in the house.

Seth led her to the living room and sat down on the chair and pulled her onto his lap. She continued to sob and Seth held her gently and rubbed her back. He kissed her hair occasionally and tried to soothe her. "Shh, I'm here and you are okay."

"I wasn't afraid of him, I was afraid of you."

Seth was confused "Why me?"

"I was afraid you'd be mad at me."

"No, I'm not. Next time I want to hear about it immediately. I wondered why you hadn't answered my call last night but I figured you were doing the crisis line."

"I was supposed to be but my mom did it for me."

"But I'm not mad at you. You did nothing wrong. I want to talk to John this weekend though. I want to make sure he can handle the restraining order or if Isaac needs to help him."

"Seth, John handles restraining orders as often as most people change clothes. The local judge just signs them anymore. Remember what business I'm in?"

"I guess so. But if you need anything regarding security, you let me know. And no more leaving me in the dark."

"I won't. I'm sorry. I just was so upset and confused."

"I know. I'll let this one slide since it is your first offense but the next one costs you another dinner." He teased. "And this one smells delicious. I'm starved."

"It's ready when you are. I wanted it ready in case you wanted me to leave." Cori said climbing down from his lap and heading for the kitchen.

"Why would I do that?" he asked walking with her to the kitchen.

"If you were mad at me, I needed to leave not stay here and fix dinner."

"Even if I was mad at you for some reason, we would need to talk about it not you leave. That's what couples do. We work through the problem and solve it, not walk away."

"I'm not very good at this relationship stuff. My counselor is helping but I'm a slow learner."

"You are not." He growled. "That just cost you a kiss. Pay up."

"Yes, dear" Cori laughed. She leaned up and kissed him. "Thank you, Seth."

"For what?" he asked.

"For being a good guy. For taking care of me. For listening to me."

"Ahhh, shucks ma'am, that what us white knight do, don't ya know?" he teased.

"Mr. Reynolds, you are my white knight." Cori answered honestly. "Now sit, I have to dish it up."

"Nope, you sit and instruct. I doubt that wrist feels really good." Seth said gently pushing her to the table. Cori pointed and directed and soon Seth had their meal on the table. He took his first bite and moaned with pleasure.

"I'll gain a hundred pounds if you cook for me all the time."

Cori blushed "I'm glad you like it. It usually does well at the restaurant also."

"I would imagine. It is delicious."

"Thank you."

"So, Beautiful, my company's annual picnic is next weekend, will you come to Houston for the weekend and stay with me?"

"I'll check my schedule. How's Millie feeling?"

"The same I think. She's enjoyed having Micah home and he is spoiling her and Mindy. Her next treatment is the week after next but it is supposed to be really intense and every day. It's going to get bad then."

"Any word on a donor?"

"Micah's blood work was just done a few days ago. I apparently wasn't a good match. Research and past history says that siblings are the best match but Mom didn't have any."

"Well, I've been on the donor registry for years but I doubt that I'm a match for her."

"You never know. That would be interesting, wouldn't it?"

"I'd donate in a flash, Seth. I'd do anything for your mother."

"I know you would and she'd do anything for you. You know she wants you for a daughter, right?"

"I know. Before I ever saw you again, she told me that. I told her to forget it because it would never happen."

"That day you gave me that list and told me I would need you for something someday, Micah told me to never say never. He's right and so were you, I do need you for something."

"Can we talk about that after we eat?"

"Definitely." Seth answered. They talked about their week while they finished eating and she supervised the cleanup but he didn't want her doing any of the work. After the kitchen met with her exacting standards, they walked into the living room to have a long talk.

"What's on your mind, sweetheart?" Seth questioned as he faced her on the sofa. Cori curled her legs under her and faced him.

"Just let me say this without interruptions okay, it is going to sound all jumbled but I hope in the end it will make sense."

"Okay, but kiss me first." Seth stated. Cori smiled and leaned forward to kiss him. "Start talking, girlfriend." He said good-naturedly.

"Did you talk to Micah this week?"

"Yes and he told me about your talk. And for future reference, stay out of bedrooms with my brother." He teased. Cori smiled again.

"Here goes....I have issues sometimes Seth, I meet with my counselor and we will need to also if we progress." Seth nodded but didn't interrupt. "Any victim of spousal abuse will blame themselves and think that they don't measure up and that no one would ever want them. It is what the abuser convinces you to believe to keep you around. I was there, I felt that way. Most days I don't anymore but I do have setbacks. I'm smart, I have a successful business and friends and family. But I failed at the only relationship I ever had."

"No, you didn't" Seth interrupted. "Sorry to interrupt but I can't let that one pass."

"I learned that the failure was not my fault though and that is the difference. I want a successful relationship and you as part of said relationship. But I don't know how to be a girlfriend. Roger and I "dated" on long distance telephone calls. He and I didn't share things, we didn't talk about important things, and I was "in love" and just wanted to hear his voice. He could have told me that the ocean had dried up and I would have believed him. See, he was a popular kid from high school and I had finally become a somebody because he loved me and I wouldn't be picked on anymore. I was going to show you."

Seth groaned and leaned over and hid his face in the couch. Cori gently touched his head with a gentle kiss and ran her fingers through his hair. "I'm sorry. I don't know how else to explain this." She whispered after another kiss. Seth sat up and nodded at her. Cori kissed him again. "I'm sorry."

"I know babe, go ahead with your story."

"I don't want that type of love again. I want to be able to talk about anything and I know I failed that last night about my day yesterday. I want to be comfortable talking to you about anything. Am I there yet? Not yet. I'm trying. Actually just talking to you is wonderful; I really didn't talk to Roger much. He used flattery and promises to blindside me to his real personality. I didn't tell you about yesterday because I was afraid you wouldn't want to know. I knew in my heart that was false but past fears hit me hard. The whole experience hit me hard. He caught me off guard."

"Come here" he motioned and Cori came closer and he hugged her tight.

Cori sat back and continued her talk. "I guess what I'm saying is that I want this" she motioned with her hands back and forth between them "me and you but I have a lot to learn. And one other thing..." she said looking down at her hands instead of him "I know it has only been a couple of weeks but I'm in love with you and it is nothing like what I thought in my past life. It doesn't feel the same and it isn't a heady experience like before. It isn't being blindsided with the sound of your voice. It is joyful and fun and I like you and I want to hold your hand and I want to hug you and I want you to succeed at what you do and I want to succeed as what I do and I want you to have a good day and a good night's sleep and I want the best for you. Is that really me?" she asked still without looking at him.

Seth reached over and gently cupped her chin to look at him. "It most definitely is you. Oh yeah, come here" he said pulling her towards him. He arranged her so that she sat facing him straddling his legs. Cori wrapped her arms around his neck when he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close. Seth's lips captured hers with such passion. Their tongues met in a duel and Cori moaned against him again and again. Cori hid her face in his neck when they had to take a breath. Seth hugged her hard but Cori felt his strength but not any fear.

"Are you listening to me?" he asked. Cori sat back on his knees and nodded at him. "I'm in love with you. It snuck up on me before we were even speaking. That day in your craft shop when you helped Mindy paint that picture, I wanted to make the world stop so that you and I could just spend time talking and I could figure out how you had knocked me for a loop so fast. From the day I saw you again here in this living room, I didn't think of you as high school Cori anymore you were just supposed to be Cori my former next door neighbor and friend of my mom's. I had matured that much at least. I originally purchased tickets to the reunion so Isaac would have a reason to come see Faith that weekend but by the time it rolled around, I was so anxious to see you."

"Stan's horrid behavior gave me an opening to see if we could have that talk but you told me no. I walked the football field that night to think and figure out how I could have a broken heart over someone I barely knew. But I did have a broken heart. I didn't know if you would accept my letters but the day you emailed me I soared on the clouds. Again, after our talk at the lake, I had a broken heart again. Nobody wanted to talk to me for that month. Mindy kept giving me hugs and I had to read that book over and over again. It was torture. I wanted you in my life but I couldn't get through to you. I had to use desperate measures and it worked. When you appeared at my door last week, I vowed that I would not lose you again. My heart is gone if I do."

Cori didn't wipe the tears away that flowed down her cheeks. She spoke from the heart "I love you Seth Reynolds."

Just before Seth kissed her he said "I love you Cori Lewis."

Seth moved around to lie flat on the couch and Cori stretched out over him. He pulled her as close as possible and captured her lips in a long, passionate kiss. When they finally separated, Cori drew in big gulps of air to replenish what he had taken from her. "I can't breathe" she said happily. Seth grinned at her and kissed her quickly. "You are so bad, my dear." She groaned.

"Tell me again..." he encouraged

"I love you." Cori repeated without hesitation.

"I'm not dreaming, right?"

"Only if we are in the same dream." Cori stated snuggling down on him. She lay with her head on his chest. "Am I squishing you?"

"Love of my life, you don't weigh enough to squish me."

"Don't start on that weight thing again." She laughed.

"Is there going to be birthday cake at John's party tomorrow?"

"Yes, of course. It is a huge chocolate cake with chocolate syrup inside and chocolate buttercream frosting. It is magnificent and I don't mind bragging about it."

"Then you need to eat a half dozen pieces. Big pieces."

"Hush" she grumbled.

"You own a restaurant and you make new recipes, why don't you weigh more?"

She sat up on the edge of the couch to explain "I only sample small bites when I'm working in the kitchen. I have mom, Pearl, John, Nia, Faith or other staff do most of the tasting. I also run from the factory over here to John's house three or four times a week and in the basement of Hannah's house there is a gym. I lift weights there several times a week."

Seth's eye grew wider with each part of her explanation. "Are you crazy? I don't even work out that much. Why do you do it?"

"I need too." She answered standing to walk the floor. "It helps me think, it makes me stronger so I can defend myself if necessary. And I enjoy it. I'm not alone much during the day with the crisis facility and crisis line, the factory, the craft shop and the restaurant. It is my alone time. Sometimes when a new resident arrives, or recruit as John teasingly calls them, my memories resurface and I can push back or work out the anger on the road or the weights."

"Did the slimeball sleeze hassle you about your weight?"

"Sometimes." Cori answered "I never really understood that either. If he would have paraded me around on his arm, I might have understood it. You know, look at my wife, she's skinnier than yours. But he didn't do that, so I don't know why he cared."

"Control" Seth answered "I won't mention your weight again. Ever"

"I know you are just teasing me. I know the difference." She said coming back over to him. "It won't bother me. Beside, you think I'm too skinny and he thought the opposite."

"Did you gain weight in college or during your marriage?"

She shrugged "Maybe ten or fifteen pounds"

"Oh good grief. That guy was a slimeball sleeze."

"I've heard that somewhere before." Cori laughed. "He had issues, love. I had to come to realize that in counseling. I was never going to be perfect in his eyes because he never really saw me, he only saw that he was miserable and he needed to feel better."

"But at your expense."

"Yes. But I survived. I have a good life now and I can help others and do you know what is the most wonderful thing of all?"

"What?" he asked.

"You are" she answered leaning over to kiss him. "You definitely are!" she said wiggling her eyebrows tauntingly. "Have I mentioned that you are so handsome and well built?"

Seth laughed and pulled her over him again "Let's just see how well you are built, love..." he said kissing her passionately. Cori felt her shirt rise as Seth pulled it up in the back. His strong hands worked underneath it to her bare skin. She moaned against his mouth as his hands caressed her gently. "Your skin is so soft. On our honeymoon, I'm going to spend one whole day just caressing you from head to toe."

"Merciful heavens" she groaned as he continued to touch her. "I'll internally combust."

"No darling, I know the way to extinguish the flame too."

"Stop that." She laughed. Seth gave her another quick kiss then eased away from her.

"As much as I hate to send you home, I'm going too. You need to not drive this late and you have a big day tomorrow."

"I know." She said rising from the sofa with Seth's help. "I'm so glad we had this time to talk together though."

"Me too, love." Seth returned. Cori gathered up her belongings and her cooking utensils and Seth carried them out to her car. "Call me when you get back to your apartment. I love you."

"I love you." They exchanged another kiss and then Cori drove to her house. When she arrived at her apartment, she checked in with him again and then went to bed.

Seth met Isaac on the stairs the next morning as they both wandered down to see what that fabulous smell was emanating from the kitchen. Neither one had even shaved or dressed other than some shorts. "What is that amazing smell?" Isaac asked.

"I would assume Joycelyn is cooking." Seth answered. The followed the scent and entered the kitchen and stopped in surprise. Cori was standing in the kitchen spreading frosting over fresh from the oven cinnamon rolls while Joycelyn was cooking the bacon and eggs.

"Good morning, gentlemen" Cori greeted. "How was your night's sleep?"

"Good" Seth answered coming over to her. Cori stretched up to kiss him. "Do you ever sleep?" he questioned as he sat down at the table with Isaac.

"Of course. I slept pretty good last night. Then I had a brainstorm. You get to be the guinea pigs this morning."

"I'll suffer through that if it tastes as good as it smells." Isaac agreed.

Cori and Joycelyn dished up the food and delivered the juice and coffee to the table. "I'm not telling you anything. Just eat and tell me what you think."

They passed the food around and began to eat. Seth assuming it was the cinnamon rolls that she was experimenting on ate those first. "It just melts in your mouth. It is fabulous."

"Thank you" Cori answered but still didn't tell her secret. Joycelyn and Isaac raved over the food also. Cori accepted their compliments graciously.

"What was your brainstorm, darling?" Seth asked when the meal was over.

"I'm not revealing my secret, sweetie. You might be trying to steal it." She teased. Seth laughed as did Isaac.

"Cori, dear, Seth can't cook. He has a cook." Isaac teased. "In college, he nearly burned down the dorm with a hot plate."

"I improved since then." Seth defended. "I can open a can of soup and warm it up just fine now. I can even grill anything you request."

"That's okay, Isaac, I don't like him for his cooking." Cori commented. "I like him because he likes toys."

"You two are a match made in stuffed animal land, I'll agree with that." Isaac agreed. "Thank you for a fabulous breakfast, ladies. I have places to go and Faith to see so if you will excuse me?"

"Hold it buster" Cori stated. "We cooked, you clean and Faith is coming here in thirty minutes anyway."

"Oh, I didn't know that." Isaac smiled. "I thought I was going to her house to get her."

"Nope, I recruited her this morning to help me cook next door."

"Fabulous" Isaac agreed. "Seth, hop to it. We have dishes to wash. And...."

"And you have Faith to see....yes, I heard." Seth said indulgently.

"Well, yours is already here so don't mess with me." Isaac grumbled. Cori and Joycelyn laughed but stayed seated at the table to watch and supervise the cleanup.

Chapter 15

Cori was drawing when she realized she was not alone any longer. She had come to Houston for the weekend to see Seth and his family. It was Saturday morning and she was up before the rest of the house so she took her sketch pad outside and was working at Seth's patio table. Cori looked from her to drawing to see Mindy standing beside her. "Hi munchkin. How are you?"

"I good. Can I color with you?" Mindy asked.

"Of course." Cori answered. Mindy raised her arms and Cori picked her up and sat her on her lap. "What shall we color?"

"I like your bear."

"Thank you" Cori answered. "I need your help before we color." Cori flipped back a few pages to her new drawing of a stuffed elephant. "My new elephant needs a name, I can't think of one."

Mindy thought about it for a few seconds. "Micah, like my daddy."

"Isn't that your bear's name?"

"It can be both."

"Alright then, my new elephant's name is Micah."

"Who this?" Mindy pointed to the lion right next to him.

"That's Rory."

"I don't think elephants like lions." Mindy explained. Cori's picture had them walking down the road together.

"Well, true. In my story they start out not liking each other but by the end, they are good friends."

"Okay. Let's color." Mindy stated. Cori smiled and turned back to her last page.

"Do you want to color in this bear or should we color something else?"

"Can you draw a horse and a bear?"

"I believe that I can." Cori stated. Mindy leaned forward and propped her chin on her hand as Cori started drawing. It was interesting drawing while a little girl squirmed on her lap but she loved it and hoped that someday her own little girl would be sitting there doing the same thing.

Inside the house, Seth and Micah watched them from the sliding glass door. "I think Mindy got distracted. She was supposed to tell Cori it was time to eat." Micah stated.

"Cori's coloring, Micah, of course the munchkin got distracted." Besides playing with the bears that Cori had given her, Mindy's favorite activity was coloring pictures then asking Seth to send them to her Mommy and Daddy.

"You've been very good to my little girl this last year. I appreciate all the coloring pages that come in my letters."

"She's been good for me too. I'll miss her."

"You can always have a few of your own."

"I hope too. But I want Cori to myself for a while."

"Have you proposed?"

"Not yet. I talked to her mother and brother last weekend and they gave me their blessing. Now I am just deciding when to ask and how to make it special."

"Make it quick. Tish is bugging me to death for details."

Seth laughed. "Go get your daughter and my girl and let's eat. We need to leave pretty soon." Micah slid open the door and exited while Seth went to get his mother.

"Hi Munchkin" Micah greeted "did you forget something?"

"Oops" Mindy stated as she turned to Cori "I was supposed to tell you it was time to eat."

"Oops, we got distracted. We better go wash up."

"We have to show daddy the elephant first." Mindy stated. Cori nodded and flipped back to the page with the elephant and the lion.

"That's Rory and that's Micah" Mindy introduced pointing first to the lion and then to the elephant. "I named him after you Daddy."

"You did? Thank you" he said proudly but in a soft voice to Cori "I think. Does that say something about me?"

"It says that your little girl loves her daddy very much."

"That I can handle" Micah said gently. He beamed a big smile at his daughter "Come on Munchkin, let's eat" Cori lifted Mindy up to Micah then gathered up her pencils and her pad to follow them inside. Seth and Millie were walking towards her when she entered. Millie looked like she had been crying.

"Millie, what's wrong?"

Millie walked up to Cori and hugged her. "It is beautiful, Cori. I loved it and it was such a surprise."

"What did I do?" Cori asked pretending to be innocent of any acts.

"Oh, you..." Millie grumbled. Cori smiled.

"I'm glad you like it." Cori finally agreed. It was a drawing of Micah sitting in the chair in the living room with Mindy sitting on his lap holding her stuffed bear. "I'm better at stuffed animals."

"I disagree" Millie stated.

"Me too" Seth interjected. "But we can argue later, I'm hungry." He escorted his mom and Cori into the dining room where Mindy and Micah were waiting for them. Micah was holding a frame in his hand and showing it to Mindy and there was another package with Seth's name on it. "What's this?"

"I would have no idea." Cori said trying to keep a straight face. Seth raised his eyebrows at her and moved to open the package.

"Cori!" he exclaimed "it is outstanding. I love it."

"Me too, Cori" Micah said. "Thank you."

"You are welcome." Micah and Seth exchanged pictures and then handed them to Millie who was crying again. Micah's picture had been almost the same as Millie's but Seth's was of him and Mindy sitting together on the couch playing with the stuffed snakes Cori had given them.

Seth hugged her tightly and kissed her gently. "When did you do these?"

"Mostly this week. Faith framed them for me in the shop."

"They are magnificent. Thank you." Seth stated. "You are so talented, sweetheart."

"I enjoy drawing and I drew those and they came out pretty well so..." Cori shrugged. Seth's family was effervescent with their approvals while they all ate breakfast. After breakfast they all scattered to get ready to go to Beaches' company picnic. At the picnic, they met up with Faith and Isaac.

"Well?" questioned Faith. "Did they love your pictures?"

The question might have been asked to Cori but Millie, Seth and Micah answered it "Yes, we did. They are fabulous." Cori blushed.

"I loved mine also, Miss Cori!" Isaac said hugging her. "She won't give me a picture of her but yours is perfect." Cori had drawn a picture of Faith and had one of the other employees frame it and wrap it up while Faith was gone. Cori had told Faith it was just like the other pictures when she handed it to Faith to give to Isaac. "She's stubborn about pictures."

"I am not" defended Faith. Isaac kissed her before she could protest too much. Seth had to go open the picnic activities so he captured Cori's hand and took her with him. He welcomed everyone and thanked them for a year of hard work. The day's events were described and then he stepped away from the stage. They played some easy games until after lunch.

After lunch, Cori found herself looking at Seth across the three foot space. He was standing in the men's line and Cori was standing in the women's line. The game was to see who was the final team that could still have a whole egg and be standing the farthest apart. "I am the CEO, I have to do well at this."

"Then you should pick a different partner." Cori grumbled. Seth shook his head. The event's organizer was handing an egg to each of the women. Cori thought _I'll get one clean toss before I'm out of this game_. After all the eggs were handed out, the coordinator yelled "First toss" and the women gently tossed the egg to the men in the opposite line. Seth caught theirs and it stayed whole but not all of them did. Those people left the lines and were out of competition.

"One step back, gentlemen." Cori heard from the coordinator. She grimaced as they stepped back and the space was now about four feet. "Toss" Seth tossed the egg and Cori cupped her hands together and caught the egg. Miraculously it stayed whole.

"Yes!" Seth beamed at her. Again the men took a step back and Cori tossed it when she heard the command. This time though Seth was not so lucky and the egg broke and splashed to the ground. "Yuck" he grumbled. Cori covered her face and peeked at him through the fingers.

"Sorry" she muttered. Seth winked at her and started to laugh. Isaac was still holding a whole egg and he and Faith were the winners of the competition.

"Nice job, bud" Seth congratulated as he wiped his hands clean. Isaac took a bow to except his congratulations. Cori and Faith wandered off from the blatant display of male testosterone. "But it is on now, baseball game is next."

"Just remember the bet" stated Isaac "my team wins and you pay for our honeymoon."

"And if my team wins, you pay for mine." Seth said softly. "Did you ask yet?"

"No" Isaac muttered. "I'm going to later. Then we plan to come over, we are still telling them tonight right?"

"Yes, but I'm not proposing tonight."

"When are you proposing?"

"I haven't planned it yet."

"Are you changing you mind?"

"If we could elope tonight, I would." Seth answered. "I just haven't planned it yet. Right now, I'm just worried about Mom."

"I know, me too. I got ya covered this week at work. No problem."

"Thanks." Seth said. "Let's play ball"

Cori sat with Millie and watched Mindy at the playground while the baseball game was going on. Seth and Isaac had kept their bet between just the two of them since the payment was so personal. Faith played on Isaac's team but Cori was lousy so she begged off and went to watch Mindy.

"Millie" began Cori "I need to ask you something."

"Anything, sweetie."

"Do you know about Seth and I from high school?"

"I know about the infamous list. He left it out on his bed the day he received it. I was not pleased with my son for a few days."

"Do you have any doubts about us now?"

"None whatsoever" Millie answered strongly "you make him so happy."

"And what about my past marriage?"

"That is just what you said, Cori, it is in the past. You and I haven't talked in great detail but your mother shared with me. She wasn't betraying your confidence but she needed someone to talk too. Roger, or as Seth calls him the slimeball sleeze, was the one with the problem not you."

"There are two sides to every story. Maybe..."

"Don't go there, Cori Alyssa Lewis, Roger takes all the blame for the abuse. Maybe without that you might have been partly at fault but I don't think we would be having this conversation then."

"I love your son very much. I want to be a good wife and mother."

"But you are scared?" Millie asked with great insight

"Yeah, that's one thing. What if he ends up paying for Roger's mistakes? What if I hurt him?"

"Honey listen to me, there are times in every marriage when there is hurt inflicted by both parties. You don't mean to do it but on some bad day sometime you will hurt him and he will hurt you. You will learn to apologize and think more carefully the next time. I really don't see you are the type of person who will make Seth pay for Roger's mistakes. I think you are too careful for that."

"I hadn't thought of that." Cori said absently.

"What does your mother say?"

"She's always liked Seth. She thinks he is handsome and kind. She thinks we make a nice couple. She's not concerned about me having another relationship. Unless you told her, she doesn't know about the infamous list."

"I never told her. I was not proud of my son."

"He's apologized."

"He should grovel. That was cruel."

"My putting it together and presenting it to him wasn't very nice either."

"That was spectacular actually. Micah saw me reading the list and told me what happened. He was still gloating those many days later."

"He's always been on my side."

"Always. He almost went AWOL when he heard about your last attack from Roger. John must have told him."

"My father did." countered Cori. "Micah came over to see John and my father was apparently shaken up. Micah asked what was wrong and my father told him. You and Darren were in Hawaii I think."

"Yes" answered Millie "and Seth was just becoming the CEO of Beaches."

"I'm so glad he didn't know."

"Why?"

"At the time, it was one more thing he could taunt me about. I couldn't show him that I was with the popular guy anymore. I was a nobody again."

"I think he had matured by then."

"And I wasn't thinking clearly anyway."

"You had four cracked ribs, a concussion and your liver had been lacerated. No one would have been thinking clearly."

"Seth doesn't know that. I'll tell him someday if he asks but not until he asks."

"I think that's okay."

"Enough of this yucky subject. I have another question to ask."

"Okay, what is it?"

"Do you want me to stay with you at the hospital this week?"

"Oh honey, that is so sweet of you but no. I'm going to be so drugged up apparently and Micah and Seth will be there. I imagine Isaac will be there some too. I appreciate the offer but no. You have people who need you more than I do."

"If you change your mind, have Seth call me and I'll come as fast as I can."

"I know you would. You always do. Can I tell you that I am thrilled that you are going to be my daughter-in-law?"

"I guess you never should say never." Cori chuckled. Mindy came running over to them then and wanted Cori to push her on the swing so Cori went with the little girl and pushed her gently. She thought about her conversation with Seth's mother and about Seth. She guessed she had sort of jumped the gun by agreeing with Millie that Cori would be her daughter-in-law since Seth hadn't officially proposed but he kept mentioning their marriage so she was believing in that.

Later that night after dinner, Cori was talking to Millie while Micah, Seth and Mindy played Candyland on the living room floor when Isaac and Faith arrived. Faith had a huge smile on her face and came rushing to see Cori.

"What is up?" Cori said. Faith lifted her left hand and flashed her new engagement ring. "Yes!" Cori yelled "Congratulations!" The two women embraced. "You too, Isaac. I'm so happy for you." Cori went to hug Isaac.

"Thanks, Miss Cori" Isaac laughed. "I'm pretty happy myself."

Millie, Seth and Micah congratulated them also. Every one settled down to talk and Mindy crawled into Micah's lap. Seth stood up and headed to sit by Cori then changed his mind and decided to stand. "We have some business to discuss with you all."

Cori interjected teasingly "I'm not moving my animals to Beaches."

"Yet, anyway" Seth teased. "I'm kidding." He laughed when Cori glared at him. "Anyway, Isaac and I have been talking and plotting. We happened to fall in love with two women who don't live that close to us. So we started making some new plans. Beaches' is in escrow to purchase some land on the west side of Catesville. Right now we will just build a small office building and Isaac, Abigail my assistant and I will move the executive offices of Beaches Toy Company to Catesville when it is completed. In the meantime, Isaac and Faith can begin to plan where they want to live in or around Catesville. If their marriage and house plans are solidified before the office is built, Isaac will have the capability of working from home. When my fabulous mother is well enough to go home to Catesville, I will begin to work from there also. Abigail is deciding if she wants a house or an apartment and will move when I move."

"Tish and Micah are deciding if they want to move into this house or if they too want to live in Catesville when their commitments to the Marines is complete in a few months. Tish will be my computer operations specialist and run all my information technology. Again, she can do that from anywhere. Micah has, well you tell them..."

"I'm going to be a writer. My first book is at the printers and I have a contract for the second one already."

"Oh my" exclaimed Millie "You sneak, you never said a word."

"I wanted to wait until it was at the printers. Then Seth told me this plan. So we decided to announce the two things at once."

Seth continued "Anyway, that's why it won't matter where he and Tish choose to live. Their work will be flexible. So any questions?" Seth asked looking to Cori. In fact everyone was looking at Cori.

"No" she answered quietly. "No questions." Seth was about to ask her what was wrong when her cell phone rang. She saw it was her mother and excused herself to go upstairs to talk to her.

In the living room, Seth looked to Isaac. "That didn't go over as well as I thought it would."

"Yeah, do you have any idea why she isn't thrilled about this Faith?"

"No I don't. But I am thrilled."

"Well, that's good anyway." Seth answered "I'm going to go see if I can find out anything." He left the living room and went upstairs to his guest room. Cori had left the door open but he could still hear her talking so he waited outside. When he heard her say goodbye, he stepped into the doorway. Cori sat looking forlorn on the bed.

"Is something wrong at Hannah's, Cori?"

"One of my residents broke the rules and told someone where she was. Her husband tried to get inside the compound and hurt one of my guards. The husband was arrested but now the woman must leave also. I don't make exceptions for rule breakers. I just know she'll have a tough time."

"Do you need to go back tonight?"

Cori shook her head no. "John and my mother are handling it."

"Cori, I'm guessing you didn't like my surprise tonight."

"No, I didn't."

"Why? I really thought that you would. Was it because it was a surprise? And I didn't talk to you before making these plans."

"Beaches is your company, not mine. You don't need to consult me about the plans for it."

"Then I'm really lost. Talk to me."

"Isaac, Abigail, you are changing your whole lives because I need Faith to keep me organized and functioning. I can't keep my schedule working without her so thousands of people are going to be affected. I'm just an idiot. Not worth all this trouble."

"Hold it" Seth said very sternly "You are not an idiot and I never want to hear that again. Faith doesn't want to stop working for you anymore than you want her to stop working for you. I do not need to run Beaches from Houston but you do need to run Hannah's and Warm Comforts from Catesville. I knew that from the beginning, Isaac knew that because he and Faith talked about it. Faith did not know of this either until tonight. We had already started some inquiries before New York when you mentioned it to me about Faith helping you so much. After New York though our plans did change a bit when we changed our location to a bigger area so that you and I can go into business together that will be the factory for that line."

"But the cost to Beaches? And if we are in a partnership, I should put up some of the money."

"The cost to Beaches was going to be approximately the same because I need a second factory somewhere. For right now, the Houston plant can handle things but only for another year maybe. I either build my new plant here or in Catesville. We won't start on the Catesville factory until Beaches and you have some plans made for that line. As for the cost, we will deal with that in the partnership agreement."

"Are you telling me the truth?"

"I am. I need a second factory and someday maybe a third. Land is much cheaper and easier to come by around Catesville than Houston. It is a win win situation for Beaches. Isaac and Faith are happy about it. My mom seems pleased. You, however, do not, so I'm confused."

"Oh Seth, I just feel like you've rearranged your life for me and I haven't done the same."

"You'll have to do some. We probably shouldn't continue to live at Hannah's. When we have a family, we will need more room."

"I only live at Hannah's now because I built two apartments for the house mothers. I never planned to be one of the house mothers. I make the rules and I'm the boss, I can't be the person who loves and tends to them too. Each one of my residents I evaluate to see if they would be a good choice as a house mother for the future. Mom loves it but she can't do it all day every day."

"So after I propose and after we make wedding plans and after Mom gets well and after we decide where to live then will you feel like we are on even ground?"

"Maybe"

"Cori, as soon as I knew I wanted to marry you and I found out about why you have Hannah's House, I knew my days in Houston were numbered. I don't care. Houston is just another place on a map. You are my life, I want to be where you are and it is too far to commute. I'm not giving up anything by moving to Catesville, I'm gaining my whole heart. I love you." Cori didn't speak, she couldn't because of the lump in her throat. She took action and launched herself at Seth and he caught her up in his arms. "I love you, Cori Alyssa Lewis."

"I love you, Seth Daniel Reynolds."

"Are we okay now?"

"Yes, I'm better and I'm actually very happy that you want to move to Catesville. I just wanted it to be the best for you too."

"It is. My mom lives there too, sugar, remember?"

"I know."

"Honey, sit down for a minute." Cori sat down on the bed. Seth knelt in front of her. "I want to marry you and I am going to propose soon. But until things are a little more settled over Mom's illness we can't make definite wedding plans."

"I agree. Your mom comes first. Definitely."

"Thank you. That means a great deal to me." Seth stretched up and kissed Cori. "let's go back downstairs and calm their nerves. We were all confused at your reaction."

"I'm sorry, I was just so surprised."

"The point was for it to be a happy surprise but it didn't work that way."

"It is now after some explanations."

Seth and Cori returned to the living room and sat down on the sofa. Cori spoke "Sorry, that was overwhelming to me and I didn't handle it well. I'm actually very happy now that I've had some explanations." Everyone seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.

Later that night, Cori walked softly down the stairs to Seth's basement. He had left the door open to his room almost as if he expected her to join him. As she entered she let her eyes adjust to the dark so she could see where he was in the bed. The left side of the bed was open and so she gently pulled back the covers and lay down next to him.

"If this is a little four year old girl I'm going to be less excited than I would be if it is an older gorgeous blonde who I love very much?" Seth spoke softly

"I'm older than four." Cori answered.

"Thank God for that. What's up, sweetheart? Couldn't sleep?"

"I missed you. And I wanted to be held in your arms."

"They were feeling a bit empty to me too." He replied wrapping her up close. "My mom does believe in shotgun weddings though. Just for your information."

"Sign me up." Cori answered

"Are you serious?"

"I would elope with you whenever. I might not be loved by my mother again but you are worth the sacrifice."

"We are going to have whatever kind of wedding that you dream of but our families are going to be there."

"You are so sweet to me."

"And you are a very nice bundle to hold. Now, kiss me good night again and go to sleep." Cori raised her head from where she had snuggled against his chest and kissed him. "I love you."

"I love you." He murmured sleepily. "My Cori"

Chapter 16

Cori stood at the door of the hospital waiting room watching the man of her dreams sleep. He looked exhausted and he hadn't shaved in days. She crept closer and sat down next to him and gently caressed his face and kissed him. "Sweetheart. Seth" she said quietly.

"What?" he jerked awake "What?"

"Easy Seth" she said calmly "it is just me."

"You scared me. What are you doing here?"

"I didn't mean to scare you. And I talked to Micah and he said both of you were exhausted so I came to relieve you. Go home and sleep."

Seth scrubbed his hands over his face "I'm okay. I was just catching a quick nap while Mom is in her treatment."

"Give me a kiss then go home. Millie will understand."

"I'll kiss you but I'm not leaving. I'm fine." Seth argued. He leaned towards her and kissed her. "I am very glad to see you and you look spectacular." Cori's suit was a black pinstripe with a short waist length jacket. She had a white shirt under the jacket which showed a tantalizing amount of cleavage.

"I came straight from a photo shoot for my new brochure."

"As what? Most gorgeous woman on the planet? If this wasn't a public place I'd be ravishing you."

Cori beamed at him "Yeah, yeah, promises, promises"

Seth abruptly stood and took her hand. He pulled her out of the waiting room to the stairwell a few feet away. The door closed behind her and he pulled her tightly into his arms and ravished her as promised a few seconds ago. Cori clung to him a willing participant in the ravishing. Seth pulled the shirt out of the waistband of her pants and touched her lower back. Cori arched into him even more. When Seth released her mouth he worked his way down her neck and Cori moved her head to the side to give him more room to kiss her.

"Seth" she moaned when he gently bit a spot on her shoulder. "We could pick a better place to do this."

"It is your fault." He said hiding his face in her shoulder. "You are so incredibly gorgeous."

"Thank you for thinking that." She squeezed him hard. "Now I'm pulling rank, go home and sleep. When Micah comes in a few hours, I'll come there and the three of us will rotate shifts until she goes home."

"You are making a big sacrifice being away from your companies."

"You are stalling go home. Let's go see your Mom and tell her you are going home and I'm staying."

"First things first, she looks sick now. Very sick. The treatments are awful and she is very weak. She needs to rest as much as she can so make her sleep. You'll have to be in a gown and mask."

"I can handle all of that. Let's go."

"You are so sweet to do this for her."

"She's my friend and will someday be my family." Cori stated. Seth nodded and took her to the nurse's station to explain who she was. The nurse explained the gown and mask procedures and helped her to get "suited" up. Seth and Cori entered Millie's room and she was awake.

"Cori" she said weakly "What are you doing here?"

"I came to stay with my friend. Seth's going to go home and sleep for a while."

"Thank you for coming." Millie said to Cori trying to smile but it was weak.

Seth spoke to his mother "I'm going home but Micah will be here in a few hours to relieve Cori."

"I'll be okay until tomorrow Seth; tell Micah to rest."

"You rest and we will take care of everything else."

"Thank you"

"You are my mother and I love you there is no need to thank me. I'll see you tomorrow." Millie nodded and closed her eyes. Cori squeezed his gloved hand and Seth left the room.

Cori sat down in the chair next to the bed and took hold of Millie's hand. In just a few days it had changed and seemed so frail. "Thank you Cori"

"Shhh, just rest." Cori soothed. As Cori caressed the hand of her friend she hummed a soft song. It seemed to relax Millie and she went to sleep. After a few minutes, Cori sat back in the chair and pulled out her sketch pad and began to draw more on the story she was writing for the kids books that Warm Comforts sold with the animals.

Cori signed her name in the last spot on the last document and looked to Seth who was doing the same on his stack of documents. When he was finished he looked to her then they leaned towards one another and shared a quick kiss.

"This is business, you two." teased Isaac

"Mind your own business" stated Seth before kissing Cori again. Cori laughed and stood to hug her brother and Isaac.

"Thank you both, very much."

"You are welcome, Miss Lewis" her brother spoke formally. Cori and Beaches Toy Company had just formed a partnership for a new line of stuffed animals and kids books. It had been six weeks since Seth's mother's intense chemotherapy treatment and she had done well. There were signs in her blood work that she was almost out of the woods. The registry had located a donor and the transplant had taken place a week ago. She was still sick but expected to gain strength daily.

Seth and Cori along with the lawyers had worked on the specifics of the partnership and now the documents had been signed. The construction of the factory would begin within a few weeks. The office building was almost set to begin. Isaac and Faith had begun construction on their house near Catesville.

Seth's assistant Abigail handed out sparking apple cider to the occupants of the conference room. Isaac held his drink high. "To Cori, Seth and the new Rainbow Toys, may everyone prosper and find their own pot of gold at the end of the rainbow."

"Hear, Hear" echo John. Cori and Seth told their thanks to the people in the room who had helped them with all of the negotiations then toasted them before sneaking another kiss with each other.

"We are out of here, my dear." Seth said to Cori. "We have a plane to catch to Dallas. We will see you people when we see you or Tuesday. It has been loads of fun but I'm for four days of rest." Cori nodded and they left the conference room at Beaches. She and Seth had said goodbye to Millie, Mindy, Micah and Tish that morning. Tish had arrived home earlier in the week and now her military career was almost over. Micah's also was almost over, his mother's illness had kept him from needing to return to his overseas deployment and now both were just waiting on their final paperwork to be completed and they would be civilians again. Mindy was thrilled to have her parents with her again. Millie was still at Seth's house but had encouraged Seth and Cori to take the weekend and begin to make some plans for their future.

"Alone at last" Seth said a few hours later when they were settled in their suite at a luxury Dallas hotel. "I have you all too myself for the next few days."

"Well mostly, my love. I did schedule a massage for tomorrow."

"Good, I'm glad you decided to do that. You'll enjoy it."

"I will. For tonight however, I'm going to just lay right here and count my blessings."

"Whenever I think of you, I am counting my blessings."

"I love you."

"Cori Alyssa Lewis, I love you" Seth began reaching into his pocket "will you marry me?" he asked holding a diamond engagement ring in his hand.

A beautiful smile came across Cori's face and the tears formed in her eyes and ran down her cheeks. "Yes, I'd be honored to marry you." Seth placed the ring that they had chosen together on her finger and kiss it then her.

"Now when?" he asked

"Well, I have cheated a little...." She said

"How?" he questioned confused

"I snuck into Houston a few times and I already have my gown."

"Hallelujah"

"You aren't mad?"

"Darling, I'm thrilled. That shortens the time doesn't it?"

"Yes, it does."

"I also took the liberty of getting Faith, Pearl and Tish, she was sworn to secrecy, to pick a pattern for their bridesmaid's dresses."

"Cut to the chase, Cori"

"Isaac and Faith are getting married in eight weeks, we can be married in twelve."

"Yes, Yes, Yes!" he said happily. Cori burst out laughing before Seth cut her off with a long hot hard kiss. "You are the best thing ever."

"I also found us a house to rent until we can build a new one."

"Fabulous! What else?"

"I've designed a couple of invitations for you to choose from. I picked out a couple of sets of flowers and I've chosen Warm Comforts to cater the reception with one exception."

"DJ is coming from New York to cook."

"Yes, he is."

"Alright, but it better be a very quick welcome and goodbye hug from him to you or I'm not going to be pleased." Cori gave Seth a very quick kiss to soothe his mock ferocious temper.

"I love you not him." Cori soothed "My mom and your mom need dresses but we will wait until closer to the wedding to pick those."

"Yeah, mom's not quite allowed out in public yet."

"But she's going to be soon. I'm so happy she is on the mend."

"We are too. She's ready to go home to Catesville."

"I'm ready to come home to you every night. I'm ready to sleep next to you always and make love with you and give you a baby or two."

"And our honeymoon will be paid for by Isaac Walters" Seth admitted

"What? Why?"

"He and I bet over the company picnic baseball game. If his team won, I paid for their honeymoon and if my team won, then he paid for our honeymoon. And my team won."

"So our trip to Hawaii is costing Isaac and Faith."

"Oh, yeah."

"You are so good, darling. Very good!" Seth laughed and Cori hugged him hard.

Twelve weeks later

"Are you ready my beautiful daughter?" Frances asked to Cori who was finally dressed in her luxurious gown.

"I am. And I'm not even nervous, yet"

"I wasn't nervous when I married your father either. I knew he was who I was to love for as long as possible."

"I wish he was here, Mom. He could see that this marriage is going to be so much better than that first one."

"He wanted that for you, honey. Now, as much as you can, put that marriage in your past and love Seth with your whole life."

"I do, Mom. I do."

"I know you do. Are you ready to go become Mrs. Seth Reynolds?"

"Without a doubt."

Frances opened the door where Cori had gotten ready. Outside stood the bridesmaids and the groomsmen. Micah, Seth's brother stepped up to Cori. "You look amazing my soon to be sister-in-law. I just have one thing to say Never say Never." Cori smiled and hugged him.

"Did you tattoo that on Seth's tie?"

"Actually I stuck in on the tape on the bottom of his shoes so when you kneel to pray the whole congregation can read it."

"You are crazy."

The music started in the auditorium before Micah could respond. Cori stepped back out of the way as the Micah and Tish, then Pearl and John, then Faith and Isaac proceeded down the aisle. Cori was breaking with tradition and her mother was walking her down the aisle.

As the traditional wedding march began, Cori took a deep breath and then clasped hands with her mother and they stepped to the entrance of the sanctuary and began their walk.

"She's incredible" Seth whispered.

"She is at that." Micah returned. "Remember what I told you those many years ago?"

Seth grimaced "I remember. Never say Never. I've never been so glad to be wrong."

Four years later

"Here, this one is yours. He won't sleep and he keeps waking up his brothers." Cori said handing one of her triplets off to her husband. Cori had needed a specific medical treatment and fertility pills in order to become pregnant and then had ended up with triplet boys. They were now thirteen months old and quite a handful. "You take him for a walk or something while Trevor and Tyler finish their naps."

Seth smiled and accepted her hand off of Trey. "Come on big guy, let's let Mama get her nap in too. She's grumpy."

"I'm not grumpy" Cori laughed "I'm exhausted."

Beaches and Rainbow Toys were keeping Seth extremely busy while Hannah's House remained full most of the time and Warm Comforts had more business each day.

"And that my lovely wife is why we are going on our vacation for a month starting tomorrow. I've chartered the plane. Our mothers are packed and ready for grandma duties while you and I have some time alone on the beach in Hawaii."

"I can hardly wait. Not that I won't miss my boys but I want some time with you."

"And I'm ready for another baby."

"No way, darling. I said two."

"Well, darling, you should have told yourself that because your doctor called and you are already pregnant."

"I am!" she asked. "I didn't try this time."

"Oh, but I did." Seth said wiggling his eyebrows suggestively.

Cori had to fight not to smile "Seth Reynolds, I said two babies"

"And I said two dozen."

"No way, never going to happen."

"Didn't we already learn to Never say Never?" Seth said pulling Cori into a hug while he held Trey. Cori smiled, nodded and gave him a long loving kiss.

###

Thank you for reading this book. I began writing about five years ago in my mid-forties to capture the stories in my head on paper and thereby removing them from the continuous loop replay in my dreams. I have read romance novels for nearly thirty years and my writing space in my home contains hundreds of books in boxes and bookshelves and stacks on top of boxes and bookshelves. I always have one or two books going at one time. I started writing to please myself and my husband kept up the pressure until I found a way to publish what I had written.

Please send your comments to me at mailto:anniepelle53@gmail.com or on Facebook under Annie Pelle or follow me on Twitter <http://twitter.com/@annie_pelle>
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Coming Soon

Making a Change

Change became necessary when Kallie overheard a conversation between two important men in her life. As she walked away from friends and a foster family she had known forever she begins to focus on the fact that the conversation she had overheard was truly correct and now she can begin to fix her life.

Sneak Peak

Chapter 1

Kallie's computer reminded her that it was lunch time at the same time as her foster brother; Trevor called out her name as he came through the office door. "Hey Kal"

"Hi Trev" she answered "How are you today?"

"I'm good. Is Mark on the phone?" he asked pointing to the closed office door. "I need to talk to him." Mark and Trevor were co-owners of Stone Fox Construction. They had met in grade school and had been best friends since then. Trevor had worked construction most of his working years and still did the field work on all of their projects. Mark had gone away to college and gotten a business degree with a minor in project management. When Mark returned to Phoenix, he and Trevor had joined forces and now had the second largest construction company in the city.

"He is not on the phone." She said coming around the desk to knock on Mark's door.

"Come in" Mark called from inside.

"Trevor is here." Kallie said as she opened the door.

"Send him in." Mark answered and Kallie stepped back to let Trevor into the office.

"I'm going to lunch; can I bring the two of you anything back from the deli?" Kallie asked both men. She wrote down their orders and left them to their business. She collected her purse and the items for the errands she had to run and left the office.

After finishing at the post office, she stopped by the sandwich shop near their office and got their food. _Foxes Sandwich Shoppe_ was owned by her foster parents. It was a national chain and she loved their food. Kallie frequented this store because of its location to her work and because she was well known there. "Hi Kallie"

"Hi Maggie" Kallie answered. "How are you?"

"I'm good. How are you?"

"I'm starving." Kallie laughed. Maggie wrote down Kallie's order along with Trevor and Mark's and went to prepare it. Kallie sat down at the counter and waited. Herb and Margo Fox had created each shop to look like a comfortable family kitchen. The counter where Kallie currently sat was like a breakfast bar in any home in the country. The tables and booths throughout the shop looked like your family's dining room. Kallie had always enjoyed the atmosphere in these restaurants. Lunch time was always busy at Foxes Sandwich Shoppe but her order was delivered quickly. It helped to be the foster daughter of the owner.

Kallie had been given up for adoption by her biological mother at birth. Kallie's adopted parents had been Justin and Sharon Jensen. They were best friends with Herb and Margo Fox and when they had died in a car accident when Kallie was fifteen, Herb and Margo had become her foster parents.

The transition had been less painful since Kallie had spent lots of time with Herb and Margo anyway but losing her parents had devastated Kallie. Their accident had been the result of a manufacturer defect on their car so Kallie had received a large settlement from the car manufacturer.

Kallie was twenty-four and a college graduate. She wasn't a brilliant student but she had received her degree in business management. To get some experience, she took the job as personal assistant to Mark Stone right out of college when he offered it to her. She had learned skills needed to manage but she knew this wasn't a job she wanted the rest of her life.

On the weekends Kallie volunteered at a local learning skills center called "A Better Tomorrow". She helped out with the little kids while their parents went to classes. Kallie loved it and she was thinking of changing jobs to work in a preschool or maybe even fulltime at the center. The director of the center, Kevin Holmes, had practically fallen out of his chair in delight when she mentioned it to him. The parents had given him glowing reports on her care for their children and his other staff members had included their thoughts on Kallie's skills that she could pass on to their clients.

The only problem with this new plan would be leaving Mark Stone. He had become very important to her. She had known him for years since living with the Fox family and not working with him or seeing him most days was going to be tough for her. She was crazy about him and actually figured that she loved him. He was great looking, kind, honest and fair. Leaving him wasn't an option right then because she would miss him.

Kallie didn't close the outer office door as she entered the office. As she approached Mark's office door, she listened to their conversation and very quickly learned why you shouldn't eavesdrop.

"I need a better personal assistant." Mark stated to Trevor.

"Anyone would be better than Kallie and much better to look at through the day."

"Absolutely. I really only hired her as a favor to your mother. I never expected her to take the job."

"I know you did. Can you transfer her to accounting?" Trevor asked

"Would you do that to Melody?"

"No, I like Melody."

"I guess I'm stuck with Kallie until forever; she has no gumption to do anything else." Mark said dejectedly. Kallie backed quietly away from the door and fought for composure. She had never been so humiliated in her life. Their opinion of her had been harsh. Before she lost the battle to the tears she made a noise in her office to alert them that she had returned. Their conversation stopped abruptly and she delivered their lunches to them.

"Thanks Kallie" they replied. Kallie spoke softly and left the office. She took her sandwich to the break room and put it in the refrigerator. Her stomach hurt so bad now that she knew it wouldn't hold any food.

Trevor and Mark were talking business when she returned a second time to the office. She sat down at her computer and went back to work. There was no way she was letting them see how their words had destroyed her. She was not giving them any satisfaction. Tonight she would write her resignation and leave as soon as her replacement could be trained or sooner since she apparently didn't do a good job anyway.

Kallie worked steadily through the remainder of the day but asked Mark if she could leave a few minutes early that night to run an errand. He agreed and Kallie left the office to go to A Better Tomorrow to talk to Kevin Holmes about employment.

By the time Kallie entered her house that night she had a new job at the learning center. She turned on her home computer and typed out her resignation. As she printed it off the tears finally started flowing.

Other than the death of her parents, Kallie didn't know when she had been this hurt. They both thought she was lazy, ugly and bad at her job. Mark had never mentioned that she wasn't good at her job and Trevor had never been anything but kind to her. Apparently it was all a lie and she was heartbroken. Kallie took a long hot shower to wash away the dirty feeling of shame and disgrace that her employers had made her feel then crawled into bed and watched each hour of the night roll by.

Kallie had a meeting each morning with Mark to go over schedules and correspondence. At the end of that meeting the next morning, Kallie asked for a moment of Mark's time.

"Sure, what's up?"

Kallie had prepared a story for Mark as a reason for her sudden resignation. She hoped that she could get through it without emotion. She handed him her letter of resignation and waited until he read it. His face showed extreme surprise. Kallie began to speak. "Thank you for letting me work here but I've decided business is not what I want to do for the rest of my life. I'm resigning effective in two weeks or sooner if you don't need me."

Mark was surprised. He hadn't expected her to resign. "Uh, you caught me off guard here...this is sudden. _Umm,_ where are you going to work?"

Kallie ignored the question. She had no desire to tell him anything about the new life she was starting. He had devastated this one; he wasn't taking pot shots at the new one. "Do you want me to call an agency and get a temporary assistant or do you have someone in mind?"

"You didn't answer the question."

"Neither did you." Kallie said standing to leave the office. "But I need to know if you want me to stay around the two weeks or not. Let me know as soon as you decide."

"Kallie, I need a minute to think this through. Why the rush? Do you have another job?"

"I'll call an agency or do you want to? Tina can probably do work for both of you for a while. I'll work with her if you want." Tina was Trevor's assistant. Her and Kallie were often the backup for the other on vacation days and things. Tina could handle anything that Mark needed and could train Kallie's replacement if necessary.

"You are not answering any of my questions."

"And you aren't answering mine." She returned. "I'll go place that call that you wanted."

"Wait a minute. What is up with you? You look like death warmed over and you aren't talking to me."

"I am so talking to you. I'll just be a minute..." she said heading out the door to her desk.

Mark was so surprised and couldn't believe what had just happened. Kallie had resigned without explanation and wouldn't give him the time of day. She had completely cut him off and refused to answer his questions. Mark called Trevor on his cell phone.

"Hey Mark. What's up?"

"Meet me downstairs now." Mark stated swiftly. "At the entrance to the building."

"Okay, I'm going." Trevor answered hanging up. Mark stepped out of his office and told Kallie to wait on placing that phone call for a few minutes then he left the office.

Kallie was thrilled he was gone. As much as she had cared for him before yesterday, now she was hurt that much and the more he was gone the better she liked it. The anger was the only thing keeping her going at this point and she needed that to get through the next two weeks. She called Tina up as soon as Mark left the office.

"This is Tina."

"Hi Tina, it is Kallie."

"Hey girlfriend, how are you?"

"Did Trevor just get a call from Mark?"

"No, but he just left the office a second ago. Why?"

"I've resigned. They probably went to discuss it."

"Resigned? Why?"

"Long story. Anyway, can you cover for me and work for both of them if Mark let's me forget the two week notice?"

"I guess so. Something is wrong, tell me."

"Nothing is wrong. I just want to leave here and the sooner the better. I have to get another call; I'll talk to you later." Kallie hung up and went to type on the report that Mark needed.

Trevor found Mark pacing at the front entrance. Mark opened the front door and they stepped outside to talk. "What's up?" Trevor asked

"Kallie just resigned."

"Are you kidding me?"

"No, I'm not. She's leaving in two weeks or sooner if I don't need her."

"That's fantastic."

"I guess." Mark answered unsure of why he wasn't jumping for joy.

"You guess?"

"She's acting very weird."

"Weird for Kallie or just weird?"

"Kallie isn't weird. She's a hard worker she just isn't cut out for a personal assistant job."

"Who cares? At least she is leaving, it is what you wanted isn't it?"

"Why is your opinion of her so horrible?"

"She's a pesky kid."

"She's twenty-four or something, not a kid."

"So what? I didn't think you liked her either."

"I like her; but not as my assistant."

"Kick her loose today and Tina can work for both of us."

"I haven't decided yet."

"What's to decide? She's horrible."

"She isn't horrible."

"Fine, keep her. I could care less, I have to run. I'll talk to you later." Trevor took off for his truck to go visit the construction sites and Mark returned to his office. Kallie was picking up the phone when he returned and told him she would transfer the call to him in just a moment. Mark thanked her and went into his office and shut the door. Kallie transferred him the call and then hung up.

Kallie did her job for the rest of the day. Anytime he asked her questions about resigning she ignored him. She talked to him only when necessary and in very short abrupt sentences. She wasn't rude but wasn't kind either. At the end of the day, he called her into his office.

"Yes sir." She said standing in front of his desk.

"Please sit down." He said pointing to the couch. Kallie sat down and he sat in the chair across from her. "Why are you resigning?"

"I just am. What did you decide on a replacement?"

"I haven't yet. I want an explanation."

"I don't owe you an explanation."

That response was unexpected to Mark "True, I guess. Are you unhappy here?" he asked and at her look revised his question "I guess so since you are leaving but is there a specific problem?"

Kallie didn't answer, didn't look at him and didn't breathe. She couldn't take this concern from him, she knew his opinion of her. "Tina said she could work for both you and Trevor. Is that what you want?"

Mark gave up trying to get an explanation "I need you for at least a week maybe both of the weeks. Transition some stuff to Tina but I need you working on the reports for the Magnus Hotel. You know what is needed for due diligence and Tina doesn't. Have Human Resources start sending me applications and I'll, reluctantly, hire your replacement."

_What a bold face lie?_ Kallie thought but she answered him professionally "Yes, sir. I'll see you tomorrow." She said standing to exit the room.

"Good night Kallie." He said as she hurriedly left his office.
