

Unplanned Love

Jodi A. Woody

Copyright 2013 by Jodi A. Woody

Smashwords Edition

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

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're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Song of Solomon NKJV

4:9-12 You have ravished my heart, My sister, my spouse; You have Ravished my heart with one look of your eyes, with one link of your necklace. How fair is your love, my sister, my spouse! How much better than wine is your love, and the scent of your perfumes than all spices! Your lips, O my spouse, drip as the honeycomb; honey and milk are under your tongue; and the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon. A garden enclosed is my sister, my spouse, a spring shut up, a fountain sealed.

# Chapter 1

# Brotherly Love

"So you met your Prince Charming?" Bryce asked Seanna over his cell.

"It's too soon to tell if he's a prince, but he is _quite_ charming," said Seanna.

"How am I supposed to be the stereotypical big brother if you're so far away that I can't check him out? You know...ask him what his intentions are and intimidate him as much as possible."

"You'll get to do the big brother thing at the wedding. Mom already said I could bring him and Daffyd said he can stay with us. It's not like we don't have enough room, we have a whole island! When are you gonna get there?" asked Seanna.

"Well...the wedding is the 16th, so I'll probably roll in on the Saturday before. Daffyd will be a wreck and will need a calming influence," answered Bryce.

"That's what he has Trisha for," laughed Seanna. "I couldn't get that much time off from class. So we'll be coming in Wednesday night."

"Well at least we'll be somewhere warm. I just figured they'd get married in either Montana or Wisconsin. A private island in Belize is a much better choice. Just think we get the whole island to ourselves for two weeks."

"Well Mom does love the ocean. You should bring someone too. What about that girl you told me about a couple of weeks ago?" Seanna asked.

"She was a little too high maintenance for me. Most of the girls I go to school with are way too uptight," he explained.

"What about the Church you go to there? No nice girls?"

"Yeah, a few. Most of them are already spoken for, and the rest have good reasons why they aren't," he laughed.

"You make it sound like you're God's gift to women. You're just too picky," said Seanna.

"You bet I am! I'm in no hurry. So...I'm looking for that perfect one. You want Prince Charming and I want Cinderella," he joked.

"Ok, so what are you looking for?" she asked.

"Someone who knows who she is, but not full of herself, doesn't trowel on the makeup, but not a vegan hippy chic... I want someone who cares about others, loves God, loves her family, but not so much that she doesn't want to hang out with mine. Definitely a virgin! She better be comfortable outdoors and know how to balance her checkbook..." he started.

"So according to you... _I'm_ the perfect woman!" Seanna interrupted with a snort. "So all you have to do is find someone just like me!"

"Well, maybe not so sassy," laughed Bryce. "But she better not look like you!"

"What! Are you saying I'm ugly?" she asked in shock.

"Oh come on...you're hot and you know it. But think about it Sea, if I had someone who acted like you _and_ looked like you...well that would just be _weird!"_

"Yeah, I guess you're right," she giggled.

"I think I can manage finding my own Cinderella. You just make sure that your Prince Charming isn't really some slimy toad," he insisted.

"Very funny. Hey, I gotta go! You've distracted me and now I'm gonna be late for class. See ya Big Brother."

"Yep, soon, Little Sis."

Bryce shoved his cell back into his pocket and laughed. Seanna was something else. It was hard to believe that they had only known each other less than two years. Seanna and her Mother, Samantha, had been on their way home to Wisconsin from a funeral in Washington, when their car broke down. Bryce's Uncle had been on his way home from chemotherapy, in mountains of Montana, with his driver Leal and they had ended up bringing the stranded motorists home with them until the car could be fixed. Due to some creative planning by Bryce's Uncle Daffyd, the girls had stayed the summer and became part of the family. Together they had all gone through some hard times, including almost losing Daffyd to cancer, and a kidnapping.

Now they were a few weeks away from the big day. Daffyd had proposed to Samantha on Christmas morning and they were getting married the week of Valentines on a private Island in the Caribbean. Bryce and Seanna had hit it off right away. Not in any romantic kind of way, but to each other, they were the siblings they had always wanted. Both of them grew up as single children. Seanna was an only child and was raised first by her unwed mother and then by her step dad, Richard. Bryce had been adopted by Daffyd's brother Gareth and his wife Rebecca when he was in grade school. When they had been killed in a plane crash Daffyd had become his guardian.

The worst part about that was Daffyd also was 'Savage', a self absorbed rock star who had major issues with anxiety. Things went from bad to worse when he was diagnosed with cancer and became a recluse. But that fated summer everything changed when Samantha and Seanna came into their lives. Bryce had someone to confide in with Seanna. They had spent every holiday and summer break together since. Seanna was attending the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, while Bryce was finishing up his third year of law at the University of California at Berkley. Though they were on separate sides of the country, they still managed to stay in constant touch through their cell phones and computers.

Bryce couldn't help thinking about the conversation they had just had. Seanna was right though. He really did want someone like her. She was the first girl ever, who hadn't tried to flirt and impress him. Actually, she was the first ever to _not_ be impressed by _him_.

By the time he was in high school, he already had an incessant pack of girls that followed him around giggling and flipping their hair. When he became the star quarterback and also class president his sophomore year, things only got worse. He tried dating but ended up disappointed every time. At the advice of his parents, he started telling everyone that he was just too busy for a girlfriend, which was totally true. He had decided to go to law school, so he needed to invest all of his time in his studies and sports to get a good scholarship.

Bryce's parents were missionaries so money for college just couldn't come from home. His grandparents were living on a fixed income but had managed to save around five thousand dollars to go toward his future. Though his Uncle Daffyd had offered to pay his way, Bryce had refused. He just couldn't take money that had been earned by glorifying the cliché of sex, drugs and rock-n-roll. It didn't matter that his Uncle Daffyd didn't live that life himself. He still promoted it all...and had gotten filthy rich, literally. It had been a bone of contention between them until just recently.

So all during high school, Bryce never seriously dated. He did go to a few proms with sisters of his friends, usually the ones who hadn't been asked by anyone else. He always made sure they understood ahead of time that it was strictly as friends. Once he even took a girl that was stuck in a wheelchair due to a car wreck. Even though her condition was due to her own stupidity, by driving drunk, he still couldn't help feeling sorry for her. He took her to her senior prom when he was a junior and made sure that he talked to her about a lifestyle change. The fact that she continued drinking for the rest of the time he knew her didn't stop him from trying.

After Bryce's parents were killed, his senior year, Bryce stayed with his grandparents until he graduated from high school with honors. When he got accepted into Berkley with a full scholarship he couldn't help being a little suspicious. Sure enough, with a little digging, he found out that his uncle was behind it all. After much soul searching and some good advice from his grandparents, he decided to allow Daffyd to help. He started spending holidays split between his grandparents and Daffyd, the only family he had left. When Daffyd got sick, Bryce started staying most of the summer with him and got to Montana every chance that he could.

All that time was well spent. Between Daffyd's assistant Trisha and her husband Leal, and then Seanna and Samantha's influence, Daffyd had finally surrendered his life to God. Now they all felt like one big happy family. Their family unit included his Grandmother Lucille and his Grandfather Bryson, as well as Leal's Grandma Sally. Now they were all making plans to spend a couple of weeks on a private island to celebrate the union. It felt like this would make it all official, they would be a real family. Bryce knew it was silly thinking that a wedding would make it more concrete, but he was happy about the way things had turned out.

_And now Seanna is bringing someone new into the mix,_ he thought. _Not sure how I feel about that one. He better be something special...otherwise I may have to pull the big brother stunt for real. She's too special to end up with some jerk._

# Chapter 2

# Prince Charming

Seanna checked her phone for messages as soon as she got out of her last class for the day. She had had a hard time concentrating all afternoon when Kevin hadn't met her for lunch like as promised. After the second phone call and a text message she started to get worried. If she had a car she'd drive by his apartment and see if he was home. Not wanting to pay huge parking fees for having a car on campus, she had decided to just use public transit while at school. Times like these made her wish she'd taken Daffyd up on his offer of a small economical car. She hated taking advantage of his kindness though. Now there were still zero messages.

Kevin hadn't introduced her to any of his friends, so there wasn't any one she could call. She had always thought that was a little odd. But then her only friend that Kevin had met was her roommate. Usually they hung out just the two of them when they had the chance to hang out at all. Their class schedules were quite different. Some of Kevin's classes were at night and Seanna had a part time job waiting tables at a local twenty four hour café. Though she only worked about sixteen hours a week, with both of their classes it didn't leave much time to spend together.

It was pretty much a miracle they had even met. Kevin didn't like the food they served where she worked, but happened to be there one day with his cousin eating lunch. Seanna had stopped in to get her check and decided to grab lunch while she was there, saving a few bucks with her employee discount. She couldn't help but notice the hot guy in the booth in front of her. He had dark hair that hung past his dark brown eyes. His lips were a little full and his lashes quite long, giving him a 'pretty boy' look. Sitting across from him was a curvy blonde, definitely a salon color, nothing natural about it, dressed in the kind of clothes that Seanna could never afford.

They were in a deep conversation and never even noticed her. Not that people ever really did. She just wasn't one of those people that everyone noticed when you walked into a place. About halfway through her burger and fries her phone rang. Normally she didn't like to talk while in a public place, but it was Bryce. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she still panicked when he called. A leftover reflex from when his uncle Daffyd had been so sick.

So she always took his calls, no matter what. Of course it wasn't an emergency, unless you considered to tell or not to tell a future girlfriend that your uncle was a rock star an emergency. Seanna had cautioned him about sharing too much too soon, reminding Bryce how Daffyd felt about his privacy.

By the time her phone conversation was over, the blonde had left and Mr. Hotty was sitting alone in the booth staring right at her. She quickly looked away and pretended that she didn't notice. A few minutes later she was relieved to see that he got up to go and pay his bill. She couldn't help wondering what he had been staring at. _Had she spilt ketchup on her shirt?_ She did a quick glance down and when she looked up, he was sliding into the seat across from her. His smile showed all of his perfect white teeth.

"Excuse me...are you Sarah, John Carpenter's little sister?" he asked.

Seanna swallowed her last big bite and quickly wiped her mouth on her napkin. "No, sorry don't know a John Carpenter," she answered with her cheeks flushing.

"Wow, you look just like her. Granted I did only meet her once and I had had a few drinks, but if I remember right, you two could be twins," he replied looking her full in the face.

"No cousins and definitely no twins," Seanna said with a shrug.

"Then it was probably very inappropriate for me to have just paid for your lunch."

"That's ok, I work here. I'll get your money back," offered Seanna.

"No wonder it was so cheap. I thought maybe you were on one of those starvation diets," he laughed.

"Nope, not me. I don't know what that word even means," she said gesturing to what was left of her double cheeseburger and large fry.

That made him chuckle and he put his elbows on the table and leaned towards her. "I'm Kevin Spade."

"Seanna Shepperd."

He mentioned that the girl he had been with was his cousin and that normally he wouldn't have chosen to eat there. Seanna felt a little thrilled when he said it as if he was happy that he had come that day. They ended up talking for about an hour and he asked her for her phone number when he walked her to her car. When he hadn't called the next day she tried to put in all out of her mind, but she couldn't help thinking about his dreamy eyes and that smile.

It was almost a week later that she had a message from a number she didn't recognize after work one day. Her heart skipped a beat as she speed dialed her voice mail. Then it almost stopped when the voice at the other end said "Hi Seanna, its Kevin. Do you remember me?" _Like she could forget!_

They met that night for coffee and cheesecake at a quite little coffee shop a few blocks away from campus. This time they talked for hours, Kevin asked all about her life. It wasn't until she got home that night that she realized that he hadn't shared much about himself at all.

To her surprise, he continued to call and after a few weeks they were hanging out on campus and off. Seanna loved the way he grabbed people's attention when he walked into a room. Suddenly she felt like she was being noticed. Not that she ever minded being in the background. She was comfortable with whom she was, but the extra attention wasn't bad either. The way Kevin seemed to want to keep her to himself also flattered her ego. She was starting to think she might be falling for the guy.

And now here she was panicking because he hadn't called. _Maybe I'm just not cut out to be girlfriend material._ Finally she decided to head to the library to finish up her paper. She was so looking forward to spring break. Her class load seemed to be more of an issue now that she'd been spending so much time with Kevin. Apparently he didn't have to work so hard for his grades. As soon as she had her stuff scattered all over a secluded table in the library, her cell rang. Grabbing it as quickly as she could, she gave her nearest neighbors an apologetic grimace as she tried to quietly answer the phone.

"Hi beautiful," Kevin drawled.

"Kevin, where are you?" she asked relieved to finally hear from him. "I waited for you at lunch."

"I know, I'm sorry. Some of the guys kidnapped me for a game of basketball and the time just got away from me."

"Why didn't you just text or call? I've been worried," she said.

"You were worried about me, aw that's cute," he chuckled.

"It's not funny, Kevin," she said wearily.

"Let me make it up to you. How about I pick you up and let's go paint the town."

"I just sat down at the library, I have to finish this paper. That's why we were meeting for lunch, remember?" she replied.

"That's right...so you're gonna be busy all night, huh?" he said sounding disappointed.

"Sorry, I've got to get an 'A' on this paper. My grades have been slipping lately. Somebody has been keeping me busy," she chuckled.

"Well, don't let me interfere with your GPA. How about we grab lunch tomorrow? I promise if anyone tries to kidnap me I'll fight them tooth and nail," he joked.

"It's a date," she laughed.

# Chapter 3

# Paradise

When Bryce got to the Island he was greeted by white sandy beaches and beautiful crystal clear water. His Uncle Daffyd and Seanna's mom, Samantha met him at the boat dock. Bryce couldn't help thinking how much Daffyd had changed since this time last year. A year ago, Daffyd had looked like a concentration camp survivor. The cancer and subsequent treatment had left him hairless, emancipated and frail. Now he was the picture of health! His hair had come in darker after he lost his long blonde locks to chemo treatments, and now it had grown out to his shoulders. _Thank you Lord, for healing him,_ Bryce thought.

Samantha was an older image of Seanna. Both women were on the shorter side. Though not exactly petite, no anorexic thinness there, they portrayed healthiness. Samantha had shoulder length wavy brown hair and green eyes. She had lighter skin than her daughter and a smattering of freckles across her nose and cheeks. Seanna was a tad taller than her mother and her hair was darker and much curlier. Both were attractive women and Bryce thought Daffyd was a blessed man.

After the enthusiastic greeting they ended up joining the others for lunch in the open dining area. Trisha stood on her tiptoes to give him a kiss on the cheek. Her husband Leal gave Bryce a bear hug that literally took his breath away. Leal's Grandma Sally stayed in her chair motioning for Bryce to come and give her a hug. Sally was a tall African American woman who always managed to look regal and composed. The family had adopted her after spending a couple of weeks with her in Oregon while Daffyd was out of the country. Though she had reached her seventieth birthday, she was still healthy and got around like a much younger woman. Once they were all seated and their food ordered he realized that Seanna wasn't the only one missing.

"Where are Grandma and Grandpa?" he asked.

"They had something come up unexpectedly. They should be here later this afternoon," Daffyd answered.

"It's too bad Sea couldn't come until Wednesday," Bryce said as he took a big bite of his seafood wrap. "So what do you think of her boyfriend, Samantha?"

"I guess I'll know soon enough," she answered.

"You haven't met him yet," Bryce's brows drew together as he chewed.

"No, the last time I went to visit he was out of town," Samantha replied.

"Don't worry, Seanna's a smart girl. She wouldn't date someone who didn't treat her right," offered Daffyd.

"I am sure people thought that about me once too," said Samantha.

"You were much younger than Seanna, babe, _and_ you raised her completely different than your parents raised you," said Daffyd patting his future bride on the knee.

"So...are you too tired to go snorkeling, Bryce?" Leal jumped in impatiently. "What?" he said looking sheepishly at his wife. Leal was a tall muscular man with skin the color of creamed coffee and short curly chocolate colored hair. His wife was just the opposite, small petite woman of Asian descent with jet black straight as a board, chin-length hair. They had worked for Daffyd for years and were two of Bryce's favorite people.

"I told you not to ambush him as soon as he got off the boat," she answered sternly. Everyone laughed at the guilty look on Leal's face.

"I can't help it, you made me promise to wait until Bryce got here before we went and it's been almost twenty four hours!"

"I've been looking forward to it! Let me get my swim trunks on," Bryce said with a grin.

"How about you two...going?" Trisha asked Daffyd and Samantha.

"Can you guys take it easy on me?" asked Samantha.

"It's just floating around with your goggles on, you can keep up," laughed Trisha. Samantha looked at Sally with her eyebrows raised.

"Not gonna happen..." she deadpanned. "You all go on and I'll take a little nap in that hammock in front of my cabana."

Forty-five minutes later, they all had on snorkel gear. Samantha had issues with her flippers at first, but was getting the hang of it finally. The water was so clear that they could see all the way to the bottom. They swam in a shallow lagoon and stayed close to one another, pointing out any interesting thing they found to one another. Bryce was amazed at all of the bright fish. There were dark blue fish the color of the midnight sky and bright fish with yellow fins and tails. Plants and sea creatures mimicked the colors of the beach cabanas. Some of the leaves were as big as his head and delicate as lace. _I will have to take Seanna when she gets here. She'll love the starfish._

Time went too fast while they explored their underwater paradise. All too soon Daffyd was standing in shallower water and removing his gear. "Mom and Dad will be here soon. We better get back."

"Wow...that was so...cool. Thanks for talking me into it, Trisha," gushed Samantha. "Seanna will go crazy over all the fish."

"That's what I was just thinking," laughed Bryce.

"Where did all the time go?" said Leal shaking the water out of his curly hair.

"I'm starved! Let's go get Bryson and Lucille settled and get some food," said Trisha.

"Are you missing your kitchen yet?" joked Daffyd.

"Um...no!" she laughed.

Now that Bryce wasn't being rushed to get into the water, he took the time to check out his cabana. His happened to be bright orange with a veranda across the front. There were two dark blue wooden deck chairs and a hammock hanging on one end. Every cabana was facing east so that the sunset could be enjoyed every morning. Bryce had the whole place to himself. There was a king size bed, a nice bathroom and a couch and a table. Before he jumped in the shower to wash off the saltwater, he grabbed his phone and sent a quick text to Seanna. " _You're gonna love the snorkeling! Hurry up and get here!"_

When Bryce, Daffyd and Samantha went to meet the boat bringing the next two wedding guests, they were surprised to see three people step up to the dock. Bryce was a little confused knowing that his Uncle had booked the whole Island so that they would have the whole place to themselves. While staff grabbed bags and set them up on the wooden boards, Lucille reached and grabbed the arm of the third person and pulled her along.

The stranger was thin and shorter than his grandmother. Blonde hair cut so that it landed right at her chin and big sunglasses covering her eyes. She pulled loose from Lucille's grasp so that they could all exchange hugs, while she stood a few paces behind them all.

"Come over here Ally. I want you to meet our family. This is my son, Daffyd and his beautiful bride, Samantha. This handsome young man is my only grandchild, Bryce. Everyone this is Alyssa," introduced Lucille. Lucille Sayvage was a woman who looked like a grandma. She was plump and had white hair and a ready smile. A little shorter than her husband she was still taller than Seanna and Samantha. Bryson too had a full head of white hair. He looked like an older healthier Daffyd.

Bryce took Alyssa's hand and said, "Nice to meet you."

"Thanks for having me," she said to them all in general.

"Well, let's show you all to your cabanas. Mom and Dad you two will be close to the dining facility in the royal blue cabana. Alyssa you'll be sharing with Seanna, Samantha's daughter. She won't be coming until Wednesday. You two will be in the hot pink one," he said with a chuckle.

"She won't mind sharing?" asked the girl.

"No, she's pretty used to having a roommate. It's her second year of college," said Bryce. "That's why she couldn't come right away, classes to finish."

When they all met in the enclosed dining area for dinner more introductions were made. Everyone welcomed their new guest and tried to make her feel comfortable. She sat between Lucille and Grandma Sally, right across from Bryce. When she finally looked up from her menu to order Bryce was amazed at how blue her eyes were, after spending all day in water the same color. She was a very pretty, in a lost little girl way. Those blue eyes were wide and round, her bottom lip a little fuller than her top and she had lashes long enough to sweep her cheeks when she blinked. Most of the meal was spent with the family joking in their usual way and she listened with a small smile on her face. Bryce figured out before desert came that this had to be one of his Grandma's 'broken souls'.

The next day Bryce woke up early to catch the sunrise from his veranda. His family had agreed to meet under the gazebo on the end of the two-hundred-foot pier for a Sunday morning service at nine. Neither one of the pastors would be getting in until Friday morning so Bryson and Lucille wanted to lead an informal praise service. Pastor Shane from the girls' church in Wisconsin and Pastor Bill from Montana were bringing their wives and would both be performing the wedding ceremony. Kate and her husband Jack would also be arriving on Friday. The six of them would only be staying over the weekend, while the rest of the wedding party had until Saturday the following week.

Deciding to take a swim since he was up so early, Bryce grabbed a towel and his bible and headed to the beach next to the pier. He was surprised to find Alyssa already sitting half way up the wooden planks, dangling her feet into the water. After she gave a half hearted wave he changed his swimming plans and walked over to where she was. She had on the big sunglasses again and had her short hair pulled into a paintbrush low on her neck. The simple sundress she had on showed the straps to a swimsuit underneath.

"Hey," Bryce said as he sat down next to her.

"Good morning," she said looking over at him through the dark shades.

"You're up early," Bryce stated the obvious.

"I don't sleep real well, especially in a strange place," she replied. "Why are you up so early?"

"Two reasons, I wanted to catch the sunset that everyone keeps going on about and I don't want to waste a minute of my vacation."

"But, don't you live in California?" she asked.

"I go to school there, but usually I spend my spring break in Montana with Daffyd. It's a far cry from a tropical island," he grinned. "Are you in school?"

"No...not right at the moment," she answered vaguely.

Bryce could see her tense up. "I was thinking of taking a swim. Care to join me?"

She smiled up at him, "Actually that was my intention but kind of chickened out. I didn't want to go in there by myself."

"Well then let's go!" Bryce stood up and reached down for her hand. She allowed him to help her up.

"Last one in is a rotten egg!" he yelled as he cannon balled into the water.

Alyssa got caught up in his excitement pulled off her sundress and glasses and jumped in a few seconds after him. When her head broke the surface she was regretting her rash decision until she noticed that Bryce was standing with his head out of the water a few feet away.

"Glad I didn't dive..." she grinned up at him.

"I think a broken neck would have put a damper on the wedding." Bryce joked. "Sorry I should have paid closer attention to how shallow the water is."

"So since I'm the 'rotten egg' then I guess I should get a chance to redeem myself."

"What did you have in mind?" he asked.

"A race to the end of the pier and _I_ get to say 'go'."

"Ok, a race it is...whenever you're ready."

"Ready...set...go!" as she said the last word, Alyssa shot off like a rocket. Bryce did his best to keep up, but he had never seen anyone swim so fast.

Alyssa got to the end of the pier first and pulled herself up. By the time Bryce got there and hoisted himself up, he was out of breath for more than one reason. As he shook the water out of his hair and eyes he saw her smiling down at him with those blue eyes and a big satisfied smile on her face.

"So...let me guess. You were on the swim team in high school," he said shaking his head. "When you said you chickened out, I assumed you didn't know how to swim well."

"I've never swam in the ocean before and wasn't really sure what kind of creatures to expect. But I _can_ swim. I took first in state two years in a row," she said proudly.

"And you didn't get a scholarship to college?" he asked amazed.

"Actually...I did," she said quietly looking off towards the horizon.

"Look, I didn't mean to pry..." Bryce said raising his eyes as well.

"I screwed it up," she said with regret.

"The scholarship?" he asked softly.

"Pretty much my whole life," she said quietly.

"But you're trying to fix that, right?"

"How did you know?" she said looking at him out of the corner of her eye. "Did your grandma already tell you?"

"Nope, but she loves helping people and is always trying to fix the ones she says are 'broken'," he answered keeping his eyes on the horizon.

"I guess that's what I am...broken."

"Well, unless your name is Humpty Dumpty, it's not a permanent circumstance," he said looking right at her with a smile.

"You don't even know what I did," she said with her eyebrows pulling in.

"Doesn't matter. Trust me. I've seen my share of 'broken' and in every case if the person doesn't want to stay that way...well...they can be fixed," he continued to look at her.

Alyssa took her eyes off the view and looked Bryce square in the face. "Thanks," she shyly replied.

"Now I better go and get my Bible because here comes our 'Church'." Bryce said as he jumped to his feet.

Afterwards Samantha and Daffyd were still lounging under the shade of the gazebo. The little service had been short and sweet but definitely filled with the presence of God. Both of them were content to just sit together comfortably and talk about their upcoming wedding ceremony. Both of them were looking forward to Seanna's arrival on the Island.

"It will be nice to finally meet her boyfriend," Samantha said.

"Do you think she's pretty serious about him?" asked Daffyd.

"I'm not sure. She's never really had a boyfriend before, so this is all new territory for me," she replied. "I had kind of hoped that she and Bryce would become an item."

"That would have complicated things way more than they already were," Daffyd said shaking his head.

"True," chuckled Samantha. "What do you think of Alyssa?"

"I think, like most of the people that my Mother decides to help, that she is hurting. But hanging out with our kids will certainly help."

"We do have a couple of good kids, don't we," she smiled, squeezing his hand.

"I can't take any credit for Bryce. He could probably take credit for raising me right the last few years..." said Daffyd smiling back at the love of his life.

"Remind me to thank him later," she said as she leaned in and kissed him.

# Chapter 4

# The Frog Prince

Seanna was shoving the rest of her clothes into her suitcase when there was a knock on her dorm room door. She quickly zipped up the bulging bag.

"Kevin, what are you doing here," she asked, her rows pulling in.

"I skipped my last class to see if you needed any help packing," he answered with a lopsided smile.

"Well, I'm all packed, and you know how I feel about you being here in my room," she answered a little irritated.

"Good, then let's go and grab something to eat. I skipped lunch to pack and now I'm starved."

"Ok...I'll meet you downstairs. I don't want to go out in my pajama pants and a sweatshirt."

"You look beautiful, as always," he answered. _And he always looks hot! I can't let him hang out here in my room, or I might not be able to control myself._

"Thanks, now shoo!" she laughed as she pushed him out the door.

She changed into some jeans and a sweater, pulled her hair out of the scrunchy on top of her head, and shook out her shoulder length hair. _I guess sometimes having curly hair wasn't such a pain,_ she thought. She quickly brushed some mascara on her long lashes and hit her cheeks with a little blush. _That is as good as it's gonna get,_ she told her reflection in the mirror.

Kevin was on his cell when she hopped into the car, but he quickly hung up as she buckled in. He leaned over and gave her a peck on the cheek.

"Where to?" he asked.

"Um...Chinese?" she suggested.

"Isn't that what we had last time?"

"Ok...burgers?" she tried again.

"Please Sea, no fast food."

"Ok... why don't you pick...and we talked about that."

"What, about me calling you 'Sea'?" he asked innocently.

"That's what my brother calls me," she explained again.

"He's not your brother, _Seanna._ "

"Whatever, Kevin. Look, you were the one who was hungry. Pick a place to eat. I don't want to fight."

"Who's fighting? Let's go to Fast Eddie's," he said pulling into traffic.

"You know I don't like going there. It's so loud and there are too many drunk college kids," she stated.

"All part of the college experience, and now who wants to fight?" he asked.

"Fast Eddie's it is then," said Seanna trying to sound cheery.

She had to admit, Fast Eddie's did make the best pizza in town. Three slices later she had to sit back and call it quits. The crowd wasn't as bad as she had expected it to be. Granted they were a little early for the party crowd. A few booths away four girls were laughing and squealing trying to gather as much attention as they could. Seanna couldn't help but think about Bryce's description of his perfect girl. _They sure wouldn't cut it._

" _So_ , are you full?" he asked.

"I couldn't eat another bite. Thanks, Kevin."

"You want to take the leftovers?" he asked with eyebrows raised.

"No, I'm good," she replied patting her stomach.

"Are you sure...you only ate twice as much as I did," he teased.

"Are you saying I eat too much?" asked Seanna reaching her last straw.

"Not at all. You can eat whatever you want. Not sure what you'll look like in your suit on the beach, but hey, you're not trying to impress anyone."

"You're right, I'm not. That's exactly why I love hanging out with my family because I _don't_ have to impress anyone. I can simply be myself. If that isn't good enough for you, then maybe you shouldn't come," she retorted.

"Seanna, I'm sorry. I just keep thinking about spending so much time with your _brother,"_ he sneered.

"Why should that bother you," she asked confused.

"You talk about him all the time, at least when you aren't talking _to_ him on your cell. I'm gonna be the odd man out."

"Kevin, Bryce and I have a close relationship. There's nothing wrong with that. It's no different than you and your cousin. She's a girl, a hot one at that, but do you see me getting all jealous when the two of you are hanging out?" reasoned Seanna.

"That's different, were family, blood related," countered Kevin.

"Blood isn't what makes a family. I should know. I was raised by a man who loved me like his own, but I don't have a drop of his blood. In fact out of all the people I care most about in this world, only one shares my blood," she said calmly.

"Am I one of them?" he asked softly.

"Sometimes you make me wonder why...but yes, you are one of the people I care about. But I'm afraid it's a package deal. If you take me you get us all," she said with a smile.

"And what if we just don't hit it off?" he questioned.

"Well...I guess we'll cross that bridge when, no _if_ , we get to it. And it's not like Bryce and I are joined at the hip. We'll have time to ourselves, and I'm hoping he'll bring a friend." As soon as the words came out of her mouth, she realized that that wasn't what she wanted at all.

"You never said he might be bringing someone!" said Kevin relieved.

"He might not, I just told him he should," she said.

"So we'll have some alone time," he said taking her hand across the table.

"We will," she smiled.

"Then I'm sorry I've been such a jerk. I guess I'm a tad jealous," he admitted.

"I forgive you, and you don't have to feel that way. Bryce is my brother," she said, repeating it in her mind as well.

"How about I take you home so you can get a good night's sleep before our long plane ride tomorrow?"

"Hey Kevin," just as Seanna reached over to grab her purse out of the booth next to her, the four loud college girls materialized.

"Hi ladies," Kevin answered with a smile.

"Where've you been?" asked the tall blond with the most cleavage showing.

"I've been busy..." he shrugged.

"Well...when you're un-busy look me up," she answered with a wink of her long fake lashes.

"Friends of yours?" asked Seanna as she pretended to try and find something in her bag.

"You could say that," chuckled Kevin.

"But not good enough friends that they needed to know I'm your girlfriend?"

"You wouldn't like them and to be perfectly honest, they'd chew you up and spit you out. But don't worry about them...the reason they haven't seen me is because I've been with _you,"_ he said.

"Yeah, maybe you should have explained that," she said as she stood up and walked to the door.

Kevin kept her waiting at the car door while he paid the bill and took time to straighten his coat. She just stood there with her hands in her pockets and stewed. Finally he unlocked his door, got in and flipped the lever to unlock hers. _So now he's not opening the door for me. What a gentleman._ Seanna got in the car and buckled up. Kevin didn't say a word the whole way back to her dorm. When he pulled up to the curb and didn't park, Seanna got out and started walking up the steps. When Kevin tapped the horn, she went back to the car to see what he wanted.

"So you're picking me up right? I don't want to leave my car at the airport," he said like nothing was wrong.

"Right now, I'm thinking I'll drive by myself to the airport and you can stay here and 'look up' your friends from Fast Eddies," she replied.

"Seanna, grow up! If you don't want me to go, then fine. But don't act like it's about those girls. I fully expected you to back out. After all two's company but threes a crowd," he said looking her in the eye.

"What's that supposed to mean," she asked wearily.

"If I don't go, it'll be you and Bryce. Just the way you wanted it."

"You tell me to grow up! You know what, Kevin, you're absolutely right. I do want to spend time with Bryce and he would probably 'chew you up and spit you out'!" she said as she slammed the door and ran up the steps.

When she got to her room her roommate wasn't there so she undressed and crawled in bed. She tried to go to sleep, but she kept replaying all that had happened with Kevin over and over in her head. _Why do I put up with all of his crap? Because he's the only one who had shown any interest in you since you started school here! And he looks like someone out of a Calvin Klein ad. Wel, beauty is only skin deep! I'm done._ No sooner had the thought gone through her mind and the phone rang. Jumping out of bed so fast that she banged her shin on the trunk at the end of her bed, she hurried to her coat pocket where she had left her cell. It was Kevin.

"Hey."

"Were you sleeping...?" Kevin asked quietly.

"No..."

"Seanna, I'm sorry for being such a jerk. I've been laying here and thinking about the stuff I said. I can't help being a little jealous...I keep thinking that someone else is going to come along and take you away from me," he tried to explain.

"Kevin, you don't have to worry about that, especially with Bryce. You'll see when you meet him," she said relieved that he had called and apologized.

"So does that mean you still want me to go with you," he asked hopefully.

"Yep," she laughed. "I would have been miserable there without you and you know it!"

"Ok, then go to sleep and I'll see you tomorrow," he said.

"Good night, Kevin."

"Dream of me," he said right before he hung up.

Seanna woke the next morning with the remnant of a dream still in her head, but she was pretty sure the man in her dreams was not Kevin. She always seemed to either feel uncomfortable or tense around her boyfriend, and in her dream, she had felt neither, only a sense of security and acceptance. Too busy to analyze her nighttime musings, she didn't give it much thought and wrote it off as just one of those dreams that doesn't have any significant meaning to them.

# Chapter 5

# Togetherness

By the time Wednesday rolled around Bryce and Alyssa had explored every inch of the Island. The only ones who hadn't joined them much were the three grandparents. Bryce hadn't pressured the young lady for any more information hoping she would open up to Seanna when she finally arrived. Leal and Trisha had invited the two youngsters to go kayaking with them and they readily agreed. By ten o'clock all four of them were wedged in two man kayaks paddling around the island. Alyssa had her underwater camera that she had let Daffyd purchase for her the day before, clicking pictures and left most of the work to Bryce. He had to admit he was enjoying watching her excitement. In her big sunglasses and white sun block on her nose she looked about thirteen.

When she noticed a Spotted Eagle Ray gliding a few feet from the kayak, she almost tipped them over trying to get a picture. It didn't take long before their arms and shoulders got tired and they headed to the beach to rest and grab a bite from the lunch they'd brought along. Trisha insisted that they reapply sunscreen and Alyssa redid her 'whiteout'. About an hour passed, with them relaxing in the shade, until the pull of the water drug them back into their kayaks. By the time they got back to the resort it was almost time for Seanna and Kevin to arrive. Bryce could tell that Alyssa was a little nervous about meeting Seanna but he didn't know how to set her at ease.

"You're gonna love Sea," he repeated for the third time.

"I'm sure I will...I'm more worried about what she's gonna think of me, I'm kind of a wedding crasher," she said wryly.

"Well, if you are, then so is her boyfriend," he laughed.

"I think I'll go and shower and change before they get here," she said as she headed towards her cabana. "Hey! Thanks for the great day!"

"You're welcome," he called after her.

As they neared the unloading dock on the Island Seanna could see a group of people waiting there. _My family!_ She grinned from ear to ear and stood up waving. Kevin shook his head and reached up to steady her in the fast moving boat. It didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that Seanna loved her family. In the short time that he had known her, he'd never seen her this excited. It was going to be a _long_ vacation.

"Somehow I think my reception will be less than cordial if I allow you to fall over board, dear," he said as he pulled her back onto the bench next to him.

"Sorry," she said sheepishly. "It's been awhile since I've seen my mom, and I haven't seen Grandma Sally since last summer."

"Who's she again?" he asked confused.

"She's Leal's grandma," she reminded him.

"And Leal is...."

"Kevin, weren't you listening? Leal and Trisha work for Daffyd," she said patiently.

"So the grandma of one of his employees is here for the wedding? Doesn't the guy have any real friends?" he asked sarcastically.

"Obviously, you haven't been listening. I already explained it all. You'll just have to figure it out," she said as they slowed down and glided up to the dock.

Bryce was the first one there holding out his hand to help Seanna out of the boat. As soon as her feet hit the docks, he grabbed her up and swung her around, only stopping to hand her off to her mother. Soon there was so much activity on the dock with hugs and kisses that no one noticed Kevin getting out of the boat or standing to one side, except for Alyssa. She caught his eye and he walked over to stand close to her.

"Not family?" he asked low enough for only her to hear.

"Nope..." she answered just as low. Finally Seanna came to her senses and looked around to find him. She grabbed his arm and brought him into the crowd. "Everybody this is my friend Kevin. Kevin this is...everybody!"

"Wow, Sea that was helpful," Bryce laughed and put out his hand towards Kevin. "Bryce, soon to be big brother. That beautiful women over there is Seanna's mother, the goofy guy next to her is my Uncle Daffyd. The little one hanging on Sasquatch over there is Trisha, and that is Leal that she is gripping. My grandparents, Lucille and Bryson, our adopted grandma, Sally, and the young lady you were just standing by is Alyssa."

"Nice to meet you all. I hope you will give me some time to get all the names and faces straight," he said with a charming smile.

"Ok. So I'm hungry!" said Seanna cheerfully.

"Why am I not surprised. How much have you spent on feeding her?" he laughed looking Kevin's way.

"I plead the fifth," he answered with his hands raised.

As they sat in the open dining area they regaled the two newcomers with all of the adventures that they had experienced since being on the island. Even Alyssa recounted the spotted eagle ray and their kayak trip that morning. The food and the company were both wonderful. Kevin began to relax and teased Seanna about the amount of food she had packed away.

"The first day we met I had the meager remains of a double cheeseburger and a large fry in front of me, so you were fairly warned," she teased. "So where are we staying?"

"You are staying in the hot pink cabana with Alyssa..." said Samantha.

"If that's ok with you," Alyssa cut in.

"Fine by me," she said smiling at her new roomy.

"Kevin, you can either bunk with Bryce or you can have a cabana to yourself. It's totally up to you," Samantha continued.

"No offence, Bryce, but I'm used to rooming on my own," he said looking at Seanna.

"Not a problem, we have the whole island. No need to double up. We just figured the girls would prefer company," Daffyd cut in.

"We do," both girls said at once. That got a laugh out of the whole table.

"I'll go make sure they put your things in the right place," said Daffyd as he excused himself from the table.

"I'll show you where we're bunking," offered Alyssa.

"You have an hour to get comfy and meet us at the beach!" said Bryce. "What? He said noticing the look that Leal was shooting his way. _You_ didn't even give me thirty minutes."

"He's right, Love," Trisha said patting Leal's knee.

Soon Bryce and Kevin were the only ones left at the table. Bryson and Lucille had left to nap in the shade, Sally and Samantha had left together and Daffyd hadn't returned.

"So how do you like the Island?" Bryce asked.

"It's pretty nice. Beats staying in Milwaukee for spring break," he said casually.

"What's your major?" Bryce inquired.

"Business. You're in law?" Kevin tried to recall what Seanna had told him.

"Third year," he acknowledged. "How about you, how much time left?"

"Thankfully, this is my last year. I'm more than ready to get to work and pay off some student loans," Kevin answered.

"Do you have anything lined up?" asked Bryce.

"I have a few possibilities. I'm working on something right now that looks pretty promising," Kevin said with a smug grin. Looking up he saw Daffyd coming their way. "Hey, could you tell Sea that I'm a little tired. I think I'll sit this one out. You guys go have fun. I'll catch up with you later."

"Sure thing," said Bryce, trying not to be irritated over the use of his nickname for Seanna.

"Look who's the rotten egg!" said Alyssa grinning up at Bryce while she put her flippers on.

"Where's Kevin?" asked Seanna when Bryce finally joined them with his snorkel gear.

"He asked me to tell you that he would catch up with us later. Said he was pretty tired," answered Bryce.

"Yeah, I slept on the plane, he didn't. I really wanted him to go, maybe I'll wait for him..." Seanna tried not to be disappointed.

"Oh, come on, I've been waiting patiently for days," begged Bryce.

"Patiently?" said Alyssa with a snort making Seanna laugh.

"Ok, we can always go again later," Seanna tried to hide her disappointment.

In the meantime Kevin got moved into his cabana. He was relieved to see that it was not in the family cluster. He could only handle so much togetherness with his own family, let alone someone else's. _Ten days, old boy, ten days,_ he reassured himself as he unpacked. _The brother seems harmless enough and he ended up bringing a friend after all, make the best of it._ Before he napped he made a few calls while he had the chance.

By the time they were done exploring the underwater wonderland the two girls were wiped. Showered and snacked they were both lying on one of the double beds getting to know each other. Neither one had on a lick of makeup and they were lounging in shorts and tank tops. Seanna's curly hair was having a hey-day in the moist warm weather. Pulling it on top of her head in a loose bun seemed like the smartest thing to do. Alyssa's was short and fine enough that it was already dried and looked like she had spent hours fixing it. Had anyone looked in on them, they would have thought they were seeing much younger girls!

"Your Mom's great. She's so laid back compared to my Mom," commented Alyssa as she stared at the ceiling fan.

"Oh, she knows how to be uptight, believe me! She's just really happy right now. Just a year ago, everything was a big mess..." Seanna said. "The whole wedding is a miracle."

"Yeah, Bryce told me about some of the stuff that has happened. I had a hard time believing it. It sounded more like a soap opera than someone's real life," laughed Alyssa.

"Well, it felt like a soap opera!" Seanna said shaking her head. "But I wouldn't trade it for anything. My Mom's never been happier and now I have three grandparents, a brother-slash-cousin, an aunt, an uncle and will soon have a step-dad! Before my dad passed away, it was just the three of us, no grandparents, uncles, aunts or cousins. So my family has grown exponentially."

"You never met your parent's parents?" Alyssa asked.

"Not my mom's and only my dad's mother. There were all kinds of junk in my parent's lives. Actually my dad wasn't my biological dad. His parents disowned him when he decided he was gay. After he gave his life to the Lord and renounced that lifestyle, he met my mom, who was a nineteen year old single mom, whose family had disowned her as well. So I guess the soap opera started before I was born," she said with a grin. "My dad was great! But needless to say, things were a little weird for my mom. We never found out about his past until after he died. He tried to be a good husband to my mom...but their relationship wasn't anything like her's and Daffyd's."

"So despite all the drama, you were happy?" asked Alyssa.

"Yep," said Seanna.

"I guess I've had my share of drama, but most of it was my own making..." said Alyssa closing her eyes.

"Well, I guess we're all guilty of that at times," offered Seanna. "What was it like growing up for you?"

"I guess I had a pretty good life. My Dad had a great job and Mom didn't have to work. So she was always there for us...sometimes maybe too much. I guess they love each other. Mom tends to expect a little too much out of all of us. I think sometimes it's because she plain gets bored," she said.

"Are you close with your Mom?" asked Seanna.

"Not really, my little sister is. They are more alike. Things kind of got worse when I got into high school. I joined the swim team and mom was hoping that I would be on the cheer squad like she was in high school..." Alyssa shared.

"That's why you swim like a fish!" joked Seanna.

"I took first at State two years in a row. I even got a scholarship to college. I guess my parents were pretty proud of that, even if it wasn't exactly the way they wanted me to excel, they were happy that I had gotten recognition for my swimming."

"So where are you going to school?" Seanna inquired.

"...I'm not," she said quietly.

"What happened?" asked Seanna gently.

"My last quarter of senior year, I met this really great guy where I volunteered at the food pantry. He had already graduated, but was working for a year before he went to school. Jeff was funny and everybody just loved him. It wasn't long before we started dating. My parents weren't too thrilled about it. Jeff's parents were just middle class and I guess they had their doubts that he would ever go to college. Anyway, we ended up getting serious pretty fast. About two months before graduation...I found out I was pregnant. Jeff was great about it all. He offered to continue working and forget about college so that he could support us. But my parents freaked. They said that I had ruined my life and my chances for college. Soon they had me convinced that I was ruining Jeff's future as well..." Alyssa had tears in her eyes and Seanna just gave her a minute.

"I tried to talk to Jeff about it, but he just got mad at my parents. He was determined that we could make it all work. I guess I was just scared. As time went on I knew I'd be showing soon and I had to decide what I was going to do...one day I just lost it. I was scared and tired of fighting with my parents and with Jeff...so I made an appointment to get an abortion. Mom took me and tried to make me feel better about it all. A couple of days later when I told Jeff, he was furious. That was the last time I ever talked to him. He never answered my calls or the letter I sent him to apologize. By the time graduation rolled around I was in depression and my grades had dropped. I lost my scholarship because my GPA wasn't high enough."

"The next year was pretty much hell...the abortion was supposed to secure a promising future for me, but instead I lost Jeff, my scholarship and the baby. If I hadn't met Lucille, I'm not sure what I would have done. After overdosing on the drugs they had given me for depression my parents were at a loss as to what to do with me. At a meeting for people who had been affected by abortion I met her. Two weeks later I was living with them. And long story short, now I am trying to allow God to heal me."

"So you've given your heart over to God?" asked Seanna.

"Yeah, about a week into living with Lucille and Bryson. They were so loving and accepting, I guess that's what I needed. The softer my heart got, the more I wanted to have what they had. The hardest part was forgiving myself..." Alyssa said.

"That's what my mom says too. She was only seventeen and still in high school when she had me. She lost her whole family over it. Her parents were super religious and were mortified that she had had sex with a boy from our Church," Seanna shared.

"At least she kept you..." said Alyssa.

"But God doesn't want you to beat yourself up about it," said Seanna firmly.

"I know..." Alyssa answered.

"So did you talk to Bryce about any of this?" Seanna asked.

"No! I didn't want to be trapped on an Island with someone who couldn't stand the sight of me," she exclaimed.

"Bryce isn't like that at all. He's actually the first person I ever told that I thought my dad was gay. He's a good listener and he doesn't judge. That's why I am excited that we get to keep him now that Mom and Daffyd are making it official!" Seanna said smiling.

"If you want to tell him, that's fine by me, but I don't think I could handle it. What about Kevin, is he a good listener?" asked Alyssa.

"Well... _no_ , he isn't really! But he is cute and lots of fun!" joked Seanna, trying to make light of it.

"Is he _the one_?" Alyssa asked with her eyebrows up.

"Too soon to tell. He's the first person I've ever really dated... so I guess time will tell," she finally answered.

"Personally I think you have to go through some _crap_ to really know what a person is like," said Alyssa seriously.

"I think you may be right. Mom and Daffyd have had their share and I guess that's why we are all so close. We've been to hell and back and come out stronger and closer for having made it through," Seanna replied.

"Lucille always tells me, 'you may be going through hell, but just don't stop and put up a tent'!" laughed Alyssa.

"That's a good one. I'll have to remember that." Seanna chuckled.

"Hey, shouldn't you be hanging out with the hot guy you came in with?" Alyssa commented.

"Yeah...I guess somebody has to do it..." Alyssa pushed Seanna off the bed with her feet and Seanna laughingly scooted into her flip flops and headed out the door. "See you at dinner!"

After Seanna left, Alyssa decided to take a walk. She found Lucille, Sally and Samantha on the pier under the gazebo. The three older women were talking animatedly and she hated to interrupt. Deciding to just walk past the pier and continue around the island she was caught off guard when Samantha called her over.

"Care to join us for some iced tea?" asked Samantha.

"I don't want to interrupt," replied Alyssa.

"We were just going over some of the wedding plans," answered Lucille. "Did you kids have a good time this morning out in the water?"

"We had so much fun that we wore ourselves out!" she laughed.

"How did Kevin like snorkeling?" Samantha inquired.

"He ended up not going. He told Bryce that he was too tired and would go next time," she said. Lucille and Samantha exchanged a look that Alyssa happened to catch. "So, tomorrow there is another batch coming in?"

"Both pastor's and their wives, and the nurse that helped with Daffyd last Christmas with her husband," said Samantha.

"Both pastors?" asked Alyssa.

"Well, I have a pastor in Wisconsin, and then we all have a pastor in Montana as well," explained Samantha.

"She just wanted a double blessing on her wedding," teased Grandma Sally.

"Can you blame me? After all the stuff we've been through!"

"The wedding is going to be lovely. We are getting married right out here on the pier. Tomorrow we'll start setting up. There will be Japanese lanterns hanging around the gazebo, and some strung along the wooden planks along the pier. Even with two pastors the ceremony will be short and sweet but we are still going to have some chairs set up for anyone who might not want to stand," said Samantha.

"She means for all of us old folks," laughed Lucille.

"Seanna showed me her dress. It's beautiful. She reminds me of a fairy tale princess. I can't wait to see yours," said Alyssa.

"You know, in all this planning, I haven't heard you mention a photographer," said Sally.

"Daffyd is weird about having his picture taken..." Samantha left off, not sure of how much information she should share with Alyssa.

"But it's your wedding day!" Alyssa exclaimed.

"We'll have someone snap some pictures. Bryce said you have been taking a ton since Daffyd purchased you that camera. Daffyd won't mind some pictures taken by one of us," Lucille quickly replied.

"Wow, no pressure," she laughed. "I'd feel better if you had a professional."

"We wouldn't though," assured Samantha. "Besides we also grabbed some cheap disposable ones for everyone to take pictures afterward for our party. I can't call it a reception...it's more like a get-together of family and friends."

"Oh, pooh. We are going to have food and music in the open dining hall and I for one intend to do a little dancing!" said Sally.

"I think it sound great," said Alyssa. "I'm glad I get to be here..."

"So are we! How did you and my daughter hit it off?" asked Samantha.

"Like we've known each other for years," answered Alyssa with a smile.

"Well, then it is official," said Samantha.

"What's that?" asked Alyssa.

"That's how we all felt about one another when we all first met, so that makes you one of the family!" Samantha explained.

"If you can handle this crazy bunch," laughed Lucille.

"Amen!" joined in Sally.

# Chapter 6

# A Snake in Paradise

As Seanna drew near to Kevin's cabana she could hear him talking to someone. _Good...maybe he won't be mad if Bryce is hanging out with him. I should have paid attention to what time it was, but I'm glad Alyssa felt comfortable enough with me to share._ Coming around the corner she spotted Kevin on his veranda swinging in the hammock. He was facing the building so he didn't spot her right away.

"Ok, we're all set then? This will be a great wedding surprise!" Kevin wasn't visiting with Bryce, but was on his cell phone. When Seanna stepped up the steps, he caught her out of the corner of his eye and quickly cut the call short.

"A wedding surprise...what are you up to Mr.?" she teased.

He grabbed her and pulled her into the hammock managing to keep them from flipping. "How much did you hear?"

"The word's 'wedding' and 'surprise'," she said kissing him.

"Well, it wouldn't be a surprise if I told you, now would it?" he said kissing her back.

"Sorry I'm so late. Alyssa and I were getting to know each other," she explained.

"What's up with her anyway?" he asked.

"What do you mean," she said defensively.

"She's not very affectionate to Bryce," he said.

"Why would she be?" Seanna asked confused.

"Didn't she come with him?" asked Kevin beginning to feel confused himself.

"Oh, you thought she was Bryce's friend? Actually she came with his grandparents. She was having some issues...and Lucille and Bryson are helping her out. She's living with them right now," Seanna said like it was no big deal.

"Are they 'saving' her," he teased.

"If you're asking if she is saved, then yes," she said irritated.

"Don't get all balled up. I'm just teasing," he laughed.

"I just don't think it's funny, Kevin. My relationship with God isn't a joke and Bryson and Lucille have done a lot to help Alyssa. She's been through some junk lately," she tried to explain.

"Who hasn't," he snorted.

"That's just the point, we all need Him," she said looking him in the eyes.

"Look, just forget I said anything. I think it's great that people find something that helps them through the tough stuff. I'm just not sure that I can buy into it all," said Kevin looking away.

"That's what Daffyd used to say..." Seanna replied.

"Well, I say, let's go eat. All that snorkeling has to have burned up your breakfast and lunch!" he said as he tipped her out of the hammock.

"Hey!" she laughed. _I just had a hard time staying mad at that man._

"Let's go beautiful," he said taking her hand and leading her down the stairs.

Thursday at sunset they all were sitting on the beach with blankets and lounge chairs. Daffyd had brought a guitar and soon they were singing all those goofy camp fire songs. Alyssa taught them a new one about slimy fish and itchy rash. Sally laughed so hard she was crying. Even Kevin joined in on the ones he knew. Seanna was surprised that he sang rather well. Between Daffyd and Kevin you could hardly notice her off key voice and Bryce's scratchy one. Needing to catch their breath, Daffyd started playing just some random melodies on the guitar. By the time the sun was down and it was fully dark, staff had lit some torches and Daffyd was playing "How He Love Me".

"Can you sing that one for us Daffyd?" asked Seanna.

Daffyd played slow and soft and sang the lyrics to Seanna's favorite Christian song. By the time he was done singing everyone was quiet. Alyssa had tears in her eyes and Kevin sat uncomfortably next to Seanna. Seeing how the song had affected Alyssa, Bryce reached over patted her leg, giving her an encouraging smile.

"Wow, you can sing, Daffyd," said Kevin breaking the peaceful silence.

"Thank you," Daffyd replied.

"Have you ever thought about doing it for a living?" Kevin asked.

"Kevin, why don't we go and see if we can rummage up something to snack on," said Seanna pulling him up off of the sand by his arm.

"Ok!" he laughed, "Gotta feed the beast."

"You can't really be hungry again," Kevin demanded as they were far enough away not to be overheard.

"You're right," she said pulling him along.

"So what's up?" he asked.

"I just wanted us to have some alone time. We've hardly been able to get a few minutes since we got here," she said covering her tracks. Besides now that she'd mentioned it, she really did want some time just the two of them.

"What did you have in mind?" he asked stopping her and turning her around to face him.

"We can take a walk on the beach, the moon is bright tonight," she suggested.

"Or you can come back to my cabana and we can talk," he countered.

"If you're content to lie in the hammock and not go inside," she replied.

"Ok...hammock it is," he chuckled.

As soon as Seanna had dragged Kevin away glances were exchanged and several people heaved relieved sighs.

"Did I miss something?" asked Alyssa.

"Do you mind, Uncle Daffyd?" asked Bryce.

Daffyd shot a questioning look towards his parents and Lucille smiled and gave a small nod.

"Well, let's just say that up until recently I was in the music industry," said Daffyd vaguely.

"Oh...I'm thinking you don't want people to know that," she ventured.

"Not especially," he replied.

"Is that why I'm taking pictures tomorrow?" she said finally understanding his reluctance to have a professional photographer.

"Yep!" said Bryce.

"I'm just not sure I can trust Seanna's boyfriend yet," said Daffyd. "So if you could keep it to yourself..."

"Sure...but why trust me?" she asked.

"Well, my Mom and Dad do and Bryce and Seanna both have good things to say about you," explained Daffyd.

"Thanks," she said humbly. "I'll do my best with the pictures tomorrow!"

"As much fun as this has been, and it has been fun, I think I am taking this old body to bed," said Sally as she stood up out of her chair. '

"We'll walk with you," suggested Bryson giving his arm to his wife.

"Alyssa, would you like to take a walk along the beach," asked Bryce.

"I'd love to," she said hopping up off of the blanket.

As soon as they were gone, Daffyd grabbed Samantha and gave her a big sloppy kiss. "Are you ready for the big day?"

"I've been ready, remember I was willing to have Pastor Bill marry us the day after Christmas," she reminded him.

"Do you regret waiting?" he asked concerned.

"Oh, Daffyd, no! Tomorrow will be wonderful and tomorrow night will be even better. Our first night in the same bed..." she said wistfully.

"So you've forgotten already..." he said dramatically.

"Forgotten what?" she asked smiling at his theatrics.

"The night we spent together at Mountain Home..."

"Do you mean the night you were so sick that you could barely move and used that for an excuse for me to stay in your room?" she said shaking her head.

"Yeah, that wonderful night," he said kissing her again.

"I have a suspicion that our wedding night will be a little more special," she said kissing him back.

Seanna had taken Kevin at his word and had tried to have a meaningful conversation with him. Obviously he had something else in mind when he had suggested 'talking'. Not that she minded kissing him, he was a good kisser. But this was the most secluded they had been since they started dating. She had always refused to go to his apartment and made it a point of not allowing him into her dorm room.

She forgot how far away his cabana was from all the others. Now with nobody around he was getting a little aggressive in his affection. Finally out of breath and feeling a little uncomfortable, she pushed away from him, causing the hammock to sway.

"Kevin..." she said breathlessly.

"What's the matter, Babe?" he asked as he pulled the strap of her sundress down off of her shoulder.

"Stop," she said and pulled the strap back up.

"I've been pretty patient, Seanna," he said quietly, rubbing her upper arm.

"I know you have, but I've been honest with you. I am not going to sleep with you," she reminded him.

"Who said anything about sleeping?" he asked in a husky voice.

"Kevin...please," she tried again.

"Fine." He let go of her and got out of the hammock so fast that he dumped her out on the veranda.

"Ow," she said. "What the heck, Kevin."

"I think you should go," he said angrily. "I'm going to bed, _to sleep_." He slammed into his cabana leaving Seanna sitting under the hammock.

She couldn't hold back the tears and crying picked herself up and began walking in the moonlit night. She was still crying when Alyssa came in. Alyssa didn't say anything and went into the bathroom to get ready for bed, but when she came out Seanna was sitting up and blowing her nose loudly.

"Do you want to talk about it?" asked Alyssa sitting on the bed next to the pile of wet Kleenex.

"Kevin can be such a jerk," she said between blows.

"What happened?" Alyssa prompted.

"You mean what didn't happen," she snorted.

"So...he wanted sex," Alyssa said getting right to the point.

"Normally, he's pretty understanding. I explained to him early on that I was a virgin and was waiting until I got married. It helps that I make sure we aren't alone anywhere in private, to cut down on the temptation. But tonight I went to his cabana...he said he wanted to talk..." she explained.

"And you had to tell him 'no'," Alyssa stated.

"He didn't take it very well. He literally dumped me out of the hammock and slammed into his cabana."

"And you're hurt," said Alyssa.

"Just a bruised behind," answered Seanna.

"That's not what I meant..."

Seanna started crying again. "I guess I'm not really surprised. I've known for some time that he isn't who I want him to be, who I _need_ him to be. But it's been nice having someone that made me feel special."

"Do you feel special now?" Alyssa asked softly.

"No," she said wiping her eyes angrily.

"Do you love him?" asked Alyssa.

Seanna dried her eyes, took in a big breath, let it out slowly and said, "No, I guess I don't. Why can't he be more like Bryce?"

"Why can't Bryce be Bryce?" asked Alyssa.

"What do you mean?" Seanna inquired.

"Well, it seems to me that if you want Kevin to be more like Bryce, that maybe you should be looking at Bryce."

"That's crazy! Bryce is like my big brother. Just because I like his character doesn't mean I could ever think about him that way," she replied, thinking that the whole idea was a little crazy.

"Ok, just a thought," laughed Alyssa.

"Besides, I thought you two were getting along pretty good," said Seanna.

"He's great, I just don't think I'm ready to jump into anything yet," Alyssa admitted.

"You never know, sometimes love comes whether you planned on it or not. Look at Mom and Daffyd."

# Chapter 7

# The Surprise

The next morning Kevin apologized for his 'rude and uncalled for' behavior. He was so attentive and gentle with her at breakfast that she forgave him, besides she didn't want to hamper any excitement of the day. Today was the big preparation day. The decorations and lanterns were going up and a couple of hours of pampering and beautifying were on the schedule for all the women folk. Seanna promised herself that she would have to have a very serious talk with Kevin when they got back to Wisconsin.

While all the ladies were getting manicures and pedicures the men were greeting the six remaining guests to the island. Bryce was a little surprised to find Kevin tagging along, but excused it as boredom. Seanna's boyfriend didn't seem to be too thrilled to be there on the island. While they waited on the dock he seemed to be getting excited or nervous about something. It didn't take long to figure it out when seven people got out of the two boats.

While Daffyd was greeting the invited guests, Kevin went directly to the tall blonde that stepped out of the boat. Daffyd didn't want to be rude to the pastors or Kate and her husband so just before he walked them off of the dock he shot a look to Bryce that said 'take care of it.'

"What's going on Kevin?" asked Bryce walking over. He noticed that Leal had stayed behind while Bryson had gone with the other group.

"Bryce and Leal, this is my cousin Carrie," Kevin replied nonchalantly.

"Why is your cousin here?" he asked getting to the point.

"It's my surprise gift for the wedding. Seanna mentioned that they hadn't hired a photographer and Carrie is in the photography program. So we invited her here to do the pictures tomorrow!" he said sounding excited.

"So...Seanna knows about this?" asked Bryce skeptically.

"Of course she does," said Kevin pretending to be offended.

"Did it occur to you that a photographer wasn't lined up because maybe they didn't want one?" asked Bryce.

"Actually I just assumed that you couldn't get one, or that something fell through. Who wouldn't want pictures of their wedding?" laughed Kevin.

"Look, I don't want to cause any trouble. If you want me to leave I can take the boat right back to the mainland," offered the girl with a hurt look on her face.

"And where did you think she was going to stay?" asked Bryce.

"With me, we are family after all," Kevin replied.

"Why don't you just give me a minute to talk things over with Daffyd? Leal, ask them to hold the boat," Bryce said as he turned and walked back up the dock.

"It's been a long morning. I'm going to take Carrie to get something to eat and you can find us when you decide whether or not you want my gift," said Kevin as he led Carrie past Leal.

Bryce was able to pull Daffyd aside for a minute and tell him what was going on. "He says that Seanna knew all about it, that it was a surprise present."

"Well...if Seanna can vouch for her then I guess it will be ok," stated Daffyd.

"Should I talk to Seanna about it?" Bryce asked.

"No, don't do anything to upset the day," Daffyd decided. "Ask them to put her in one of the empty cabanas, preferable one close by just to keep an eye on her."

"Kevin said she'll room with him, being cousins and all," Bryce said.

"Fine...whatever. This better not upset Samantha!" Daffyd said.

"I think if you act ok with it all, she'll be fine. It _would_ be nice to have some pictures of the big day," Bryce said slapping Daffyd on the back.

Leal met Bryce coming back to the dock and told him that Kevin had taken his cousin to get a bite to eat. "What's the verdict?"

"Uncle Daffyd said he'll let them stay. Seanna knows her...so I guess we have a photographer. Alyssa should be relieved. I'll go and tell the boatmen that they don't need to wait. You can have the honors of giving Kevin the good news," said Bryce.

"You don't like the guy, do you?" asked Leal.

"I'm trying to for Seanna's sake, but for the life of me, I can't figure out what she sees in him. His cousin seems more his type!" answered Bryce.

"Why don't you talk to her about it?" said Leal.

"I told her just a little while ago that she should let me find my own girl, so I'm going to practice what I preach," said Bryce.

"When I get back, what do you say to some kayaking? The girls will be busy for a couple of hours yet," offered Leal.

"Sounds like a plan. Meet you at the kayaks in ten minutes!"

Leal found Kevin and Carrie finishing up in the open dining hall. Kevin looked up expectantly when he saw Leal approaching their table.

"Bryce is telling the boatmen that they don't have to wait," Leal relayed the message.

"Oh, that's great!" cooed Carrie.

"I have a few questions for you," said Leal as he sat down across from the two cousins.

"Oh...ok," said Carrie looking at Kevin.

"What kind of camera will you be using? Digital or film?" he asked.

"I can do either, which do you think they would prefer?" she asked relieved.

"I don't think that matters, but here is the deal, if you use digital, we get the sim card, if you use film, the film stays with us," he said looking her in the eye.

"I usually include the touch ups and photo shopping in the package..."she started to explain.

"Either that works for you, or you don't take the pictures," he said shrugging his shoulders.

Carrie looked at Kevin again and he gave a barely noticeable nod. "No problem. You'll get all the undeveloped film and the sim card."

"Good, now you can let Seanna know how much time you will need to do the pictures and if you want to do any before the ceremony," Leal said as he got up from the table.

By the time the women were totally relaxed from their spa experience and their ladies lunch they were ready to begin the decorations. Samantha had already secured a few staff members to give them a hand. They were in the process of gathering everything together and the guys still had not arrived. Seanna volunteered to go and round them up knowing they'd need some taller people and some muscles. She was just about to the first cabana when she spotted what looked like a familiar tall blond snapping pictures on the beach. _I wonder if that is one of Kate's granddaughters._ She didn't have to wonder for long because she met Kevin heading her way.

"Hey, you look like you had a relaxing day!" he said giving her a kiss on the cheek.

"It was nice," she smiled and took his hand. "Hey do you know who that girl is on the beach?"

"That's Carrie," he said looking to where she was taking pictures of the water.

"Carrie," she said, her eyebrows pulling together. "You mean your cousin?"

"Remember the surprise? Carrie is the surprise," he replied calmly.

"What are you talking about?" asked Seanna as she stopped walking.

"Carrie is a photographer. You mentioned that there wasn't going to be one, so I asked her to come and do the pictures. It will be my wedding present to your Mother."

"Oh my word! Does Daffyd know she is here?" Seanna said panicking.

"Of course he does. What's the matter? I thought you'd be happy," he sounded hurt.

"Daffyd hates to have his picture taken. That's why they never booked a photographer and hates having strangers around..." she said shaking her head.

"She isn't a stranger, Seanna, she's my cousin."

"It was a big deal for me to even bring you, they are just getting to know you. Are you sure Daffyd didn't freak?" she asked.

"Leal said that as long as Carrie gave him the film and the sim card it was all good. What kind of people don't want pictures of their wedding?" he asked shifting the conversation.

"People who appreciate their privacy. Why didn't you talk to me about this first?" she demanded.

"I honestly didn't think it would be such a big deal," he answered with his voice raised.

"Who paid her way, and who's paying for her room and board?" Seanna asked with her eyebrows raised.

"We split the ticket, she's rooming with me and what's one more mouth to feed. Your Uncle seems pretty generous. He's footing the bill for everything so far and even bought a camera for Alyssa."

"Carrie is staying in your Cabana?" she was shocked.

"Oh, don't be such a prude, Seanna, she's my _cousin._ I'm sure you wouldn't have a problem sharing a room with your _brother_ ," he answered sarcastically.

"The thought wouldn't even cross our minds."

"Look, she's here, Daffyd is fine. I'm sorry I didn't run it by you, I was only trying to do something nice for you and your family." He grabbed her hand and rubbed her upper arm.

"Aren't we supposed to be setting up for tomorrow?"

"I forgot! That's where I was headed, to go round everyone up," she said pulling away.

"I'll go and get Carrie so she can take some before pictures and you go get everyone else. You'll see...no one is upset by all of this except you..."

The first person Seanna ran into was Bryce. "Hey, so we have a photographer," he said when he saw her.

"Yeah," she said sheepishly. "Was Daffyd upset?"

"No, he's good. Don't worry about it Lil' Sis. So where are you headed to in such a hurry?"

"It's time to decorate, I'm in charge of rounding up a crew."

"I think most everyone is in the lounge finishing up some ice cold lemonade. I'll go on ahead, why don't you see if you can get some of that down to the pier for us while we are slaving away. Maybe something to snack on too," he suggested.

"You're missing Trisha's snack layout I can tell," she joked.

"She does know how to compliment any type of gathering with some good food," he grinned back.

"I'll see what I can do," see you in a bit.

# Chapter 8

# True Love?

Bryce stood next to his Uncle Daffyd under Japanese lanterns and ropes of tropical greens and flowers. They were wearing simple cream colored linen suits, white collarless shirts and flip flops. Daffyd looked the picture of health. His hair had grown in, and though it wasn't the long rock star locks of his previous years, it was shoulder length and thick. He had tanned to a golden brown the past week and looked sharp in the pale suit. It was a miracle that Daffyd had even lived to get married, let alone meet someone as amazing as Samantha. He was musing over this all when the music started and Seanna and her Mother came walking up the pier towards them.

Samantha was dressed in a simple flowing gauzy white dress with a high waist and small feathery sleeves. Her hair had been put up off of her neck in a loose roman style with a few wavy tendrils artfully escaping around her face and neck. She was absolutely beaming. Next to her with their arms linked walked her daughter in a similar dress in the same creamy color as his suit. Bryce's throat constricted when he saw how beautiful she looked. Her curly hair was hanging down her neck in the back and was swept up in the front. They were both carrying a single white lily and both girls had tears in their eyes and big smiles on their faces.

As they got closer, everyone noticed that the bride and groom only had eyes for each other. The daughter handed her mother off to the dashing groom, who stooped to give Seanna a fatherly kiss on the cheek. Seanna took her place on her mother's left and caught Bryce looking at her. She gave him a big grin and he couldn't help grinning back like a ten year old school boy. _This was his family._ He thought proudly.

The service was simple and sweet. They each quoted part of the scripture from the Song of Solomon in the Bible. It was the same scripture written in Hebrew on their wedding rings. _I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine._ Soon the handsome couple were kissing and everyone else was cheering and whistling. Most of the women were wiping their eyes. Carrie was there snapping pictures and Bryce had to admit she was behaving like a pro. They all walked off of the pier together to a wonderful meal. Usually the evening meal was served in the enclosed dining area, but tonight they ate in the open with the tropical breeze blowing.

Afterwards the tables and chairs were shifted and a local DJ began to play everything from classical to Jamaican reggae. They all started laughing when the "chicken dance" song came on. Samantha and Seanna had decided to keep the Wisconsin tradition of the chicken dance and soon they were all in a circle hands clapping, wings flapping and rears shaking. Even the three grandparents had joined in. Because of the odd number of women to men, except for a few slow songs, they tended to dance in a group.

By the end of the evening, the older ones were sitting and enjoying watching the younger ones. The DJ called for the family dance. Daffyd grabbed Seanna and Samantha pulled Bryce to the dance floor and they danced to an old "Firehouse" song. Half way through the song, they switched and Seanna was in Bryce's arms.

"You look beautiful," he said leaning in so she could hear. "You and your mom both."

"You don't look half bad yourself," she teased.

"You look happy," he said as they moved around the dance floor.

"I am. I have another Dad and a big brother now," she said as she smiled up at him.

"It is pretty amazing isn't it?" he said.

Seanna looked into Bryce's eyes and for just a split second saw something new there. She chalked it up to the seed planted by Alyssa earlier and gave herself a little shake. "You should dance with Alyssa. I can tell by the way she is watching you that she wants to dance."

"Can I finish the dance with my little sister first," he asked, not ready to turn her loose. Bryce was enjoying the closeness with Seanna. Seeing her walk down that aisle had made him see her in a little different light. Not sure what exactly that was, he was just taking it for what it was.

"Anything for my big brother," she said patting his shoulder.

Soon several other couples had joined them on the floor. Trisha and Leal, Pastor Bill and his wife, Pastor Shane and his, Kate and her husband, Lucille and Bryson and the last ones to enter the floor were Kevin and Carrie. Bryce couldn't help noticing the way the two of them looked at each other not quite the way cousins should. When they had turned so that Seanna got a look at the cousins, her heart skipped a beat and she missed a step and tripped over Bryce's foot.

"Whoa there," he laughed as he righted her. "They didn't spike the punch did they?"

"No, I guess I'm getting a little tired," she said covering her tracks.

Bryce looked at the concerned look on her face and realized she was staring at her boyfriend. "Would you like to sit down, Sea?"

"Actually, I think I'd like to take a trip to the ladies room," she said making light of it. Bryce walked her to the edge of the dance floor as another slow song started. "Go ask Alyssa to dance," she said pushing him towards the girl sitting next to Sally.

When Seanna got to the bathroom, she took a good look at herself in the mirror. Her face looked pale and her eyes looked huge. _What is the matter with you, girl? He was just dancing with his cousin._ She splashed some cold water on her face and took a few deep breaths before walking out the door. By the time she got back to the dance floor, Kevin was sitting with a drink in his hand and Carrie wasn't around.

"There you are, I was looking for you," he grinned as he pulled her onto his lap.

"I was just using the bathroom," she said as she pulled loose and sat in the chair next to him. "Where is Carrie?"

"She said she had gotten enough pictures and was ready to call it a night," he replied.

"Last song everyone!" called the DJ.

"You heard the man," said Kevin pulling Seanna to her feet.

They joined everyone who had enough energy to be on the dance floor for one last dance. Before it was over Samantha and Daffyd had snuck off to the honeymooners' cabana that had been prepared for them to share the remainder of their stay on the Island. Hugs and 'goodnights' were shared as everyone drifted off to their perspective cabanas. Kevin's was in the opposite direction from the others, so he was the first to leave. Bryce walked Alyssa and Seanna to their cabana, a pretty girl on each arm. When they were just saying goodbye at the steps, Seanna remembered the film and the sim card.

"Bryce, do you know if anyone got the film or the sim card from Carrie?" she turned and asked.

"I don't think so, but I'm sure it will be ok until the morning," he replied.

"Yeah, you're right. It's not like she's going anywhere," she said giving him a final pat on the arm. "Good night Big Brother."

"Sweet sleep you two," he called as he walked away.

"That was fun," said Alyssa as she got ready for bed.

"It was!" agreed Seanna as she walked into the bathroom. When she was done Alyssa was already comfy in bed.

Seanna got in her own bed and thought about the day. Though it was a wonderful day, something niggled at the back of her mind. Not being able to go to sleep she got back up and put on some clothes. As she was leaving, Alyssa called sleepily to her, "Where are you going?"

"I'm going to go and get the film. I just have a feeling I should," she answered. "I'll sleep better knowing that I've got it."

It only took her a few minutes to get to Kevin's cabana. She almost turned around when she saw that the lights were off. _This is silly. They are already asleep._ No sooner had that thought come, her mind then registered the low voices coming from the open window. Quietly she walked up the stairs and to the window. She didn't know why she didn't just make herself known, but that niggling feeling was back. Enough moonlight was streaming in the window that she could clearly see two people in bed together.

She stood there long enough to know that they were _not_ sleeping. Suddenly her stomach felt hollow and her throat so tight she couldn't breathe. horrified, she forgot all about the film and quickly stumbled down the stairs and headed for her own cabana. She was crying so hard that she didn't see Bryce until he caught her right before she would have crashed into him.

"Sea, what's wrong," he asked with concern, holding her close.

"Get me out of here," she said grabbing him by the shirt. Bryce turned around keeping his hold on Seanna with one arm and led her back to his Cabana. He got her inside sitting on the couch and calmed down enough to understand what she was saying. "I couldn't sleep, I kept thinking about that stupid film...I can't help it I just never liked his cousin...oh, God...I hope she's not his cousin..."

"What happened Sea?" he asked gently he still had his arm around her shoulder sitting next to her.

"Bryce, they were having sex..." she sobbed into his shirt.

"Are you sure..." he had to ask.

"I stood there like an idiot not wanting to believe it, but they weren't covered...yeah, I'm sure. I feel sick. I'll never be able to get that picture out of my mind," she continued to cry.

Bryce was at a loss as to what to say, so he just sat quietly and let her cry it out. Finally she heaved a heavy sigh and sat up. She took one look at his soaked shirt and giggled, which worried him even more. He'd never heard Seanna giggle before.

"I've soaked your shirt," she stated.

"That's ok," he said shaking his head.

"I'm pretty sure some of that is snot..."

"In that case why don't I put on a clean one," he said. He grabbed a box of Kleenex off of the table and tossed it to her before he took off his messy shirt.

"Where were you going?" she asked from the couch.

"...I'm changing my shirt?" he said confused.

"I'm not delirious, just humiliated." She said with a snort. "I meant, when I almost mowed you over. Where were you going?"

"I kept thinking about the pictures. I figured you must have mentioned it for a reason. If you were having second thoughts about it, then maybe I should just go get them," he answered as he came back in a dry t-shirt.

"I just can't figure it out. If she's not his cousin and they have some kind of relationship, what's he been doing with me? And why bring her here. Unless the whole 'wedding surprise' was just a ploy to get her here for a free tropical vacation," she said wearily.

"What do you mean 'wedding surprise'? Didn't you two plan that together?" he asked with a scowl.

"No," she said with a frown. "I didn't know a thing about it until I saw her on the beach!"

"He told Leal and I that you knew all about it. That's why Daffyd decided to let her stay, because he thought you were in on it."

"That jerk. How could I be so stupid," she said jumping up from the couch. "He's up to something. Why couldn't I have just trusted my gut feeling about him? I knew he wasn't being honest, but I wanted to believe he really liked me."

"Well, sometimes we get fooled."

"Would you have been?" she demanded.

"I'm studying to be a lawyer and I've been around Daffyd too much, so no, probably not," he answered truthfully. "So, Sea, what do you want to do about it?"

"I think I want to confront him about it all, quietly without causing a scene. Tomorrow morning before they come for breakfast, I'm going over to talk to both of them and to get the film and the sim card. Then I am telling them to leave," she said firmly.

"I'm going with you," he said.

"I made this mess, I need to take care of it," she stated.

"I'll stay outside then. But you'll know I'm there for moral support," he suggested.

"Ok, deal."

"Now, I'll walk you back to your cabana. In the morning, you stop and get me on your way to see them. What time do you want to head over?" he asked.

"I certainly don't want to catch them in bed again...let's say about eight. That gives us time before everyone meets for breakfast. Maybe you could talk to the manager about getting a boat to get them out of here," she asked.

"Ok, let's get you to bed." He helped her to her feet and she gave him a big hug.

"Thanks, Bryce," she whispered into his chest.

"Hey, what are brothers for," he whispered back into her hair.

# Chapter 9

# The Reckoning

Bryce was up bright and early. First he went to see Trisha and Leal; he recounted the circumstances from the night before. Leal said he could make his way to Kevin's cabana shortly after eight. Both men agreed that there might be some kind of trouble from the pair before they got them off of the island. Trisha decided to go to Sally's to pray, while the boys took care of business. Next, Bryce found the manager and told them that two of their guests where there on false pretences and would be leaving first thing this morning. Because they prided themselves on their guest privacy and security, he was more than happy to secure transportation for the two off the island. He also suggested having a few of the male staff to be in the area of Kevin's cabana before eight.

At seven-forty five on the nose, Seanna arrived at Bryce's cabana. She had dark glasses on and her hair pulled back in a tight pony tail. Looking tired but determined she wanted to go right away. Bryce was able to stall a few minutes, giving Leal time, by telling her what the resort manager had to say. By the time they arrived Bryce noticed a male staff member pushing a cleaning cart in front of one of the empty cabanas down the beach, and another with a fishing pole was within shouting distance, and Leal trailing a ways behind them. Seanna was too set on her task to notice any of it.

"Wait here," she said to Bryce when they got to the cabana. They could hear a blow dryer running so she knew that the occupants had to be awake. Bryce waited around the corner as Seanna knocked loudly at the door. As soon as Kevin let her in, Bryce moved to a sot right outside of an open window and motioned, down the trail, for Leal to join him.

"Good morning beautiful," Kevin drawled moving to embrace Seanna.

"Don't," she said coldly and took a step back folding her arms in front of her.

"What _now_?" he asked frowning.

"Go get Carrie," she said motioning to the bathroom with her head.

"What's this all about," he asked.

"What I have to say, needs to be said to both of you," she bit out between clenched teeth.

"Carrie," he yelled now that the bathroom was quiet.

"What do you need?" she yelled back.

"We have company, get dressed and get out here," he said watching Seanna.

"Um...can you hand me something..." she said peeking her head out.

Seanna raised her eyebrows at Kevin's look of embarrassment when he realized what it must look like to have his 'cousin' in his bathroom with no clothes. "I was still sleeping when she got up."

Seanna turned to look out of the window while he rummaged through the bags on the floor and threw something into the bathroom. Just as the bathroom door opened again, Seanna notice that Bryce was standing right outside the window. Feeling her courage rise, she turned and saw a look pass between the other two.

"What's up?" asked Carrie regaining some of her attitude.

"I'm here to get the sim card and the film," said Seanna.

"I had planned on bringing them to breakfast, you didn't need to make the trip over," she said sullenly.

"What's your problem, Sea?" Kevin asked angrily.

"No problem, _Kev,"_ she said calmly. "Well, there won't be. Because you're _cousin_ is going to hand over the film and the sim card and then you two are packing up. There is a boat waiting for you at the dock. You're both going to leave the island, right away, this morning."

"What's she talking about Kevin?" Carrie asked as she dug through her camera bag.

"I told you, she's jealous of you. She can hang out with her lover-boy and excuse it because she pretends that he's her brother, but she has a problem with me hanging out with my own flesh and blood," he sneered. "Give her the film and she'll get over it."

As soon as Seanna had the film and sim card in the pocket of her shorts she looked Kevin right in the eye. "Speaking of flesh...I came by last night and saw a little more than I wanted to. Cousins?" she said looking at him with disgust.

"What _are_ you talking about?" he asked calmly.

"You make me sick. Which one is it? Are you sleeping with your cousin, or have you been lying about Carrie being related, since the first day we met?" she asked.

"Well, honey, I guess that would be a 'no' to your first question and a 'yes' to the second one!" he laughed. "Did you seriously think I'd be interested in someone like you. You are the most boring woman I have ever met, who puts more passion into eating then into lovemaking, a simple-minded repressed religious freak."

"Then...why?" she asked trying not to let what he had just said get to her.

"It's simple really. I overheard your conversation in the café about a rich relative and we hatched a plan to get some of the money. Then when I found out that he wasn't a part of your family until the 'I-do's', we decided to go along with the photographer thing."

"What could you possibly get out of it?" she said amazed.

"A vacation, not to mention that Carrie and I haven't spent a night apart since she moved in with me in September."

"You two live together...you mean after you took me out, you'd go home..." she said incredulously.

"...to me," Carrie cut her off with a smirk.

"He _kissed_ me...bought me gifts...he tried to get me to _sleep_ with him," Seanna said to Carrie in shock.

"I guess Kevin forgot to tell you that he's on the drama team. My man can act," said Carrie with a smile. "And you sucked it right up. When he'd get home we'd laugh about your holier-than-thou attitude and your eating habits. You kept us quiet entertained."

"Well, the entertainment is over. You're leaving." Seanna said firmly as she turned to leave.

"We aren't going anywhere. You can have the photos, call it a gift. But _we_ are staying out the rest of the vacation. I haven't put up with you for the past few months just to cut it all short. It's not like you can make us leave without telling everyone what a fool you've been," said Kevin. "There is no way you'll let your family know that the man of your dreams can't stand the sight of you."

"That's enough!" said Bryce angrily as he stormed in the door.

"Well, if it isn't the big brother coming to the rescue," sneered Kevin.

"Get your things. You two are out of here. Seanna go out to the porch," Bryce said between clenched teeth.

No sooner had Bryce gotten the words out and Kevin pulled back his arm and hit Bryce square on the jaw. Catching him off guard, the sucker punch knocked Bryce back out the door, giving Leal access to the inside of the cabana. As Seanna and Carrie stood in shock, Leal quickly put Kevin in a submission hold, with one arm twisted in an unnatural way across Kevin's own back, and was speaking calmly into his ear.

"You have ten minutes to pack up and get to your boat. There are two men outside to make _sure_ you do. When you get back to Wisconsin, you will _not_ contact Seanna or come near her again. Understood?"

"Don't hurt him!" squealed Carrie. "We'll go. Come on Kevin they aren't worth it!"

Leal turned Kevin loose and shoved him towards Carrie. Bryce was rubbing his jaw when Seanna walked out the door. Leal followed behind them and stopped to talk to the two burly staff members. Carrie slammed the door behind them as soon as they had got off of the veranda.

# Chapter 10

# Family

"What was _that_?" asked Seanna staring at Leal.

"Didn't we ever mention that Leal met Trisha when he was working as Daffyd's body guard?" laughed Bryce.

"Um...no," she said amazed.

"And he was a marine before that," Bryce said slapping Leal on the back as the hero caught up with them.

"Man, I hate fights," said Bryce. "They don't solve anything."

"I never start them, but I am willing to stop them," chuckled Leal as he crooked his arm around Bryce's neck.

"What were _you_ doing there and where did those other guys come from?" asked Seanna still trying to figure it all out.

"Bryce told Trisha and I what happened and asked for some backup," shrugged Leal.

"Family sticks together," Bryce explained with a shrug when she looked up at him in appreciation.

"Bryce...your jaw is turning purple," said Seanna wrinkling her eyes.

"Let's get some ice on that before breakfast," Leal said.

"What are you going to tell everyone when those two don't show up," Bryce asked Seanna.

"The truth," she said. "Remember what Sally said about family. 'Home is where you can act the worst and still be loved the most.' I was stupid...but you all will still love me."

"Speaking of Grandma, I better go let her and Trisha know that it's all settled. They're praying at Grandma's. Seanna you make sure Bryce gets an ice pack on his face." He went on ahead of them to clue the two prayer warriors in.

"You don't believe all that crap he said back there, do you?"Bryce asked Seanna.

"Most of it, well...some of it...maybe," she said her voice catching.

"Don't listen to that guy, Sea. You are so much better than them, too good for a guy like that. Promise me that you won't let anyone one else dictate how you are supposed to feel about yourself," said Bryce as he stopped walking. Seanna stood looking at the ground, so Bryce gently lifted her head by her chin and looked into her eyes. "Promise?"

Seanna looked into those eyes and wondered how she ever thought that Kevin had beautiful eyes. Bryce's brown eyes were full of love and kindness. Something she had never seen in Kevin's. While Bryce waited for her answer, something warm crept into her broken heart and threatened to bring tears to her eyes again.

Lowering her eyes, she said, "I'll really try."

When Bryce pulled her into an embrace she held on to his waist like she was clutching a life preserver. Bryce, too, felt something well up inside of him. He had a strong desire to comfort and protect Seanna in a way that was new to him. Before either one could even begin to consider the new emotions they were experiencing, Bryce pulled away. _What was I thinking, she's vulnerable right now and the way to protect her isn't to cross that brother-sister line._ Seanna felt embarrassed for clinging to him and bewildered by her new feelings toward Bryce.

"Sorry...I think we better get that ice," she said turning away and heading towards the dining area. She had secured some ice and had Bryce sitting at one of the tables when Alyssa found them.

"What happened?" Alyssa asked her eyes wide.

"It's a long story. Can you help him with this while I go check on something?" she asked Alyssa indicating the ice bag. "I'll fill you in when I tell the rest of the family what happened. That way I'll only have to live through it one more time."

"Where are you going, Sea?" asked Bryce warily, worried that she was leaving because she felt uncomfortable with him now.

"I'm just going to spy on the boat, from a distance, to make sure they are leaving." she said. She felt like she needed some space from Bryce to give her mind a minute to process what had just happened.

When she was satisfied that her ex-pretend-boyfriend and his girlfriend-cousin had boarded the boat, Seanna returned to find her family all gathered for breakfast. The group was so large with the added guests from the day before that they occupied several tables. Seanna had second thoughts when she realized that there were several people here that really didn't need to know what had transpired. But then she got up her courage and told them all she had something to tell them. When she had everyone's attention, she explained what had happened starting with the day they met and ending with Leal's subduing Kevin.

Afterwards most of them hugged her, Sally offered to be a shoulder to cry on and Daffyd offered to hire a hit man, which made everyone laugh. "What? I am serious," he said innocently.

"Give me a few days and I'll get back to you on that one," said Seanna shaking her head.

Samantha had asked her to come and talk to her and Daffyd later when it would be more private. When they got up to take a walk with their other guests, Leal and Trisha took their spots at the table. Alyssa was there as well sitting next to Bryce and looking up at him with those big blue eyes. Seanna convinced herself that Bryce was the brother she'd always wanted and that he had behaved exactly like any big brother would have. It was apparent to her that Alyssa was interested in him, and she happened to really like her. _Maybe I'll get a sister soon. That would be great, right?_ She hadn't been listening to the conversation until Trisha's words broke into her musing.

"The world is full of people like them," said Trisha, "That's why we hang on to the good ones when we find them. I had a similar experience, only worse, I think. That's how I met Leal. He was my knight in shining armor."

"How did the two of you meet? And how come no one ever told me that you were Uncle Daffyd's body guard?" asked Seanna coming back to the conversation.

"Wait...how famous was your Uncle... he needed a body guard?" said Alyssa.

"How come you never once even asked about Daffyd? Kevin was full of questions," replied Seanna liking her even more.

"I guess it wasn't important. I figured if you all wanted me to know you'd tell me...and it wouldn't change anything, he's a great guy," she said shrugging her shoulders. "But...a body guard."

"Alyssa, my Uncle Daffyd is James Savage as in _Savage_ ," explained Bryce.

"That's hilarious," said Alyssa smacking him on the arm.

"Um...he's telling you the truth," vouched Trisha. "I'm his personal assistant and Leal was his body guard. Now I pretty much cook and clean and Leal does all the other work around Mountain Home, where we all live."

"You're serious! Daffyd is _Savage_...I just can't wrap my head around that one," she said incredulously.

"That's a story for another time. I want to hear yours," demanded Seanna looking at Trisha.

"Well, I had been working for Daffyd for about a year and I ended up dating one of his road crew. With that kind of lifestyle you hang out with the same people so much, that you build relationships with them, good or bad. It was all good for awhile. Mind you this was before I got saved. We all drank and partied, except Daffyd. Then I went to a young women's meeting with a girl from college, and I made the decision to follow Jesus. Jim thought it was a faze and expected it to wear off. He started doing meth and he didn't like the fact that my faith had changed me. When he drank he was funny and sometimes stupid but the meth made him mean. Soon he was smacking me around."

"I finally told Daffyd and he fired him, along with some others who were using. He wasn't thrilled about having all of that junk around, or their being under the influence around all his expensive equipment. One of them was his bodyguard. That's when he hired Leal, an ex-marine who didn't smoke, drink or do drugs."

"About a month later, Jim showed up, high, and was pretty much beating the crap out of me in my hotel room. Leal came flying into my room, like a hero out of an action movie, and broke Jim's nose. I found out later that Jim had knocked my cell phone out of my hand and somehow it had speed-dialed Daffyd. When Daffyd had heard me screaming, he and Leal ran to my room as fast as they could. Well I guess when I saw tall dark and handsome dragging that piece of crap out of my room, through eyes that were quickly swelling shut...it was love at first sight."

"Awe..." said Alyssa. "Isn't that romantic?"

"Maybe for me," she laughed. "It was all just part of the job for him."

"What?" asked Alyssa.

"She's right. It took me much longer to realize how I felt for her," he answered.

"How much longer?" asked Seanna.

"Not until Daffyd started having anxiety attacks. When I saw how she took care of him and _put up_ with him...well let's just say I started seeing her in a different light. Then one night when Daffyd was pretty bad, we were both up all night. The next morning after he had finally fallen asleep, she led me to the Lord. We've been together ever since."

"Ok, now I feel better. Like maybe there is still a decent guy out there for me," said Seanna.

"So you still believe in prince charming?" asked Bryce hopefully.

"Well obviously _all_ men aren't monsters, there is _you_ , and Leal, Grandpa Bryson, my Dad, Daffyd and well...there must be a few more out there," she answered.

"I grew up with my parents who were high school sweethearts, so I figured that was just the way things worked. I assumed Jeff and I would get married one day and live together forever. You know, happily ever after and all of that. But now I know, especially seeing your mom and Daffyd, I still can't believe he is Savage, that sometimes it's _not_ that first one," said Alyssa.

"Was Jeff a monster too?" asked Seanna cynically.

"No! I guess in my situation the monster would have been me. He was so sweet and...good...he just couldn't handle who I really am," she said sadly.

"You mean who you _were_ ," said Bryce gently.

"Yeah, I guess he hasn't met the new _transformed_ me," she smiled gratefully.

"I am sorry about the whole mess, Seanna, but this has been the best week I have experience in a long time. I hate to think by this time next week we'll all be going our separate ways," Alyssa said looking up at Bryce.

"It's _always_ hard. That's why we look forward to summer break," said Seanna.

"Hey, you should come stay with us for a while this summer," suggested Bryce thinking how good it would be for her to continue her friendship with Seanna, and that a buffer between the two of them might be just the thing he needed.

"Oh...I wasn't hinting," said Alyssa blushing.

"No, he's right. Mountain Home is huge. We have a big pool, a media room, a music room and we all help Trisha and Leal out with the extra work. I'm going to go ask Mom and Daffyd right now. Do you think your Grandma and Grandpa would mind if we stole her away for the summer?" Seanna asked Bryce. Now it was obvious that they liked each other. She was determined to be a great sister to Bryce and help him win his princess.

"Actually we hadn't made plans past spring," said Alyssa.

"That settles it! You young lady are coming home with us this summer," said Trisha.

Seanna spent the rest of the day alternating between crying, feeling angry and feeling relieved that Kevin was out of her life. She couldn't help thinking of the possibility of seeing them at School. But she reminded herself that until the day in the restaurant, she had never even seen either of them before. Having sent Alyssa out to keep her big brother, the Hero, company, she finally went and talked to her Mom and Daffyd about the whole mess.

"I know you already feel bad enough, but Daffyd wanted to just ask you a few questions. Do you mind talking about it?" Samantha asked Seanna as she handed her some ice water. The three of them were sitting on the veranda. The two girls were on a porch swing and Daffyd was lounging in the hammock.

"No, I don't mind. It's not like I've been able to think about anything else. I feel like such an idiot."

"Did you and Kevin ever discuss who I was?" asked Daffyd.

"No...a couple of times I almost did, but I guess deep down I never really trusted him enough to," she answered truthfully.

"Could he have overheard anything, maybe you talking to one of your friends?" he continued.

"I haven't told anyone...why, do you think this has something to do with you?" she asked.

"I'm trying not to be paranoid, but I can't help thinking that it might be," he answered.

"Honey, did you ever see either of them around school, or did you have mutual friends?" asked her Mom.

"No, in fact I was just thinking of how grateful I am for that!" she replied.

"So one day he just showed up at school?" asked Samantha.

"No, we met at the café. I had stopped to get my check and stayed to eat lunch. He was there with _her._ I got a call from Bryce and after I hung up he was staring at me. Shortly after that, Carrie left and he came and introduced himself. Actually, he thought I was someone else at first, at least that's what he said," she tried to remember everything that had happened.

"So you were talking to Bryce?" asked Daffyd.

"Yeah, but if I said anything about you, it was just 'Uncle' or 'Daffyd'. Honestly, most of the time I forget that you have an alter ego," she tried to joke.

"And the only explanation he gave for it all was a vacation?" Samantha said bewildered.

"Well, that was his excuse for Carrie being here, but he didn't know about the vacation that day when we met. He implied it was all some kind of a joke..." she finished angrily. "He said that he knew about a rich relative from the conversation. Maybe I had mentioned our trip, I just don't know."

"That's why this all sounds a little fishy to me. You said he took you out and even bought you presents. Why would he spend the money if it was some kind of sick joke? And they paid for Carrie's ticket...it just doesn't point to a gag. Are you sure you got all the pictures?"

"Yeah, Carrie was surprised to see me. Actually she was in the bathroom, didn't even have any clothes on and Kevin had to round them up. When I asked for the film and the sim card, she went right to the camera case and even got the film out of the camera. Unless she stashed some, I got it all."

"She had no idea you were coming by that morning, so she didn't really have a reason to hide any of the film," said Daffyd. "I think when we get back home; I'll get someone to check them out. It may be a wild goose chase but I'd feel better about it."

"Are you scared?" asked her mom.

"No...just hurt."

"Were you in love with him?" Samantha continued.

"You know, I guess I wasn't. We fought and sometimes I actually dreaded being around him. But then there were those times that he made me feel like a beautiful princess," she tried to explain.

"You _are_ a beautiful princess," Daffyd firmly replied.

"Of course you two think I am, it's a requirement of all parents. I want my future husband to think I am one. Kevin definitely wasn't future husband material. I am so sorry that I ever asked if he could come. Now our honeymoon is ruined," Seanna pouted.

" _Our_ honeymoon?" laughed Daffyd.

"Yeah, that's what Bryce and I have been calling it all along," Seanna grinned at him.

"Nothing is ruined. I'm just glad that you know who Kevin really is now. I suggest the next time someone comes in and sweeps you off your feet that you turn and run the other way. I think true love isn't always the stuff of romance novels and chick flicks, sometimes it is something that starts off slow and builds from a strong friendship," Samantha offered.

"Like you and Daffyd," she said lightheartedly.

"No, we _definitely_ weren't normal," said Samantha as they all chuckled.

"So...you're gonna be ok? Or do I need to hire that hit man?" asked Daffyd.

"No, I think Leal scared the-you-know-what out of him. I'm not too worried about having to see him. My pride was hurt more than my heart and you know what they say about pride...?" she asked. "I guess I just took that fall."

"Why don't we pray about it, leave it all in God's hands, and have a great couple of days before we go back to the real world," suggested Daffyd. "Lord, we ask you to comfort Seanna. We thank you that you have a perfect man for her and that you will help her to be patient and more discerning while she is waiting. Give us a great remaining few days of our family honeymoon and thank you for our family that you have pieced together."

"Amen," said the girls. As Seanna lifted her head she saw Alyssa and Bryce walking on the beach together. _And, Lord, help me not to become attached to Bryce in a way that isn't sisterly!_

# Chapter 11

# Goodbyes

If Bryce had been worried about his behavior with Seanna, after their ordeal with Kevin, Seanna's behavior laid all of his doubts to rest. She continued to treat him as she always had. She was the quintessential little sister. Not wanting to lose the relationship that they had always enjoyed, he stuffed his new feelings for her and did his best to play the role of the big brother. As the time drew near to them all going back to their separate lives, Alyssa, Seanna and Bryce tried to cram as much time together as possible and making plans for the summer together.

Seanna began to feel comfortable again with Bryce. How could it be otherwise? He was so opposite from Kevin's self absorbed personality. He treated both her Alyssa with kindness and respect. Thinking that they had been including her just so she wouldn't feel left out, Seanna pleaded a headache so that the Bryce and Alyssa could have some time alone. Now she walked the beach, gathering a few shells to take home, she thought about what the summer would be like seeing the two of them together.

_Maybe I should make some other plans for at least part of the summer. I just don't know if I can watch them and not feel like I missed out on something special. We could have ended up together if I hadn't made such a big deal out of the big brother thing. I always knew what a great person he was, why couldn't I have realized then how much he means to me?_ By the time they all met for dinner she had a tentative plan forming in her mind to separate herself from the possible pain of being at Mountain Home for the summer.

"Since some of you will be departing in the morning, Samantha and I would just like to thank you all for making this a special occasion. I never would have dreamed that I would be married to such a wonderful woman, who loves God and still can stand to put up with me. And I never would have imagined myself returning to God and His love, being gathered together with people who genuinely care about me and who choose to call themselves my friends and family...so thank you," said Daffyd as he raised his glass of wine. Everyone clapped and cheered.

"Now it's my turn," said Samantha as she stood up next to her husband. "I too wouldn't have imagined my life to be what it is today. As you all know I had only recently lost my husband when we came into Daffyd's life. My marriage, to a good man, was comfortable at best, and though I am thankful for all that Richard did for Seanna and me, I am so grateful that God saw fit to give me a second chance at life. The love that Daffyd and I have for one another has already been through many trials. We aren't promised an easy life, but we know that God gives us people like all of you, that stay beside us during the good and the bad. I too, want to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you!"

"Can I add to that?" asked Bryce standing up from his chair. "I just want to say that though it was all made 'official' here on this beautiful island, to me, you and Seanna became a part of our family when your car broke down that fateful summer day. I love you both. Samantha, you are a second mom to me, Seanna, you are the little sister I never had, and always wanted. I want to thank God for bringing you both into our lives."

Seanna smiled up at him, eyes filled with love, and a sadness that Bryce didn't understand. _Maybe she is missing her Dad, or thinking of Kevin,_ he thought. But Seanna was thinking of the irony of finally having the big brother she had always wanted, only to fall in love with him and mess it all up. _I'm the little sister he always wanted. I need to remember that and do the best I can to accept it for what it is._ Knowing that everyone would expect her to share as well, she wiped the tears from her eyes and stood.

"I love you all so much..." she managed to get out. "Daffyd you have made my mom happier than I have ever seen her, and possibly the most freaked out as well," she laughed. "Bryce, I can't begin to say how much I have appreciated you being there for me...as a big brother. But I have to also say that my family is bigger than I had ever thought possible. I now have grandparents, Lucille, Bryson and Sally. I have a crazy aunt and uncle, you know who you are!" she said looking at Leal and Trisha. "And now we've added Alyssa, who I can't wait to have at our house over the summer. This has been one of the happiest times of my life and though I also have experience one of the hardest things too, I had all of you here to help me through it. Thanks and I love you."

By the time she was finished tears were rolling down Seanna's cheeks. Bryce had to go over and hug her. She hugged him back and knew that no matter what she would try to tough it out and spend as much time with him as possible this summer.

"Love you, Sis," Bryce whispered into her hair.

"Love you too," she whispered back.

The last few remaining days on the island ended up going by so fast that Bryce and Seanna didn't have a minute alone together. Most of the time Alyssa, Trisha and Leal hung out with them or the two girls were together. They all tried to give Daffyd and Samantha some space. Even though they joked about it being a family honeymoon, they didn't want to encroach upon their special time together. Seanna had spent so much time in the sun, despite plenty of sun screen, that her skin was burnt. Bryce and Alyssa, on the other hand were a nice golden brown, and constantly teased her about her peeling nose.

So on the day that they all had to leave the island, everyone was a little sad. They knew once they got back to the States, that they would all have to go their separate ways, Leal, Trisha, Samantha and Daffyd would all be going to Montana, Seanna to Wisconsin, Bryce to California, Bryce's grandparents and Alyssa would be going to Nevada, and Sally would be going home to Oregon. Plans were made for the summer. It was agreed that Bryce would bring Alyssa with him after his visit with Bryson and Lucille the first couple of weeks of his vacation. They had the manager take a group picture of them on the dock before they all got on the boats to take them to the main land.

When they all got to the airport in Texas, they had some time together before the first flight out. Deciding to go and grab a bite together they found a place that was closest to the gate that Sally would need, as she was the first flight out. Seanna and Alyssa wanted to pop into the gift store. Alyssa had asked her to help pick out a card for Daffyd and Samantha as a thank you for the holiday.

The card was quickly forgotten as Alyssa spotted a tabloid paper right outside the store. On the front page was a picture of Daffyd and Samantha, under the gazebo on the island, saying their vows. The headlines splattered across the top were 'Savage Gets Hitched'. She grabbed Seanna by the arm and pulled her to the paper. Seanna bought one and they quickly joined the others.

Before she sat down at the table, she laid the paper out in front of her mom and Daffyd. It hadn't taken her long to figure out that the pictures had been taken by Carrie. She sat down and held her head in her hands, trying not to cry. "I'm so sorry Daffyd. This is all my fault."

"It was in the gift store," said Alyssa.

"What is it?" asked Bryce. Daffyd raised the paper so they could all see the front page.

"It was Carrie. That was the whole plan all along...somehow they found out who you were," cried Seanna.

"But you got the film and the sim card," said Bryce.

"Do you know if either of them had a laptop with them?" asked Leal.

"Oh, I am so stupid! Yes, I saw a laptop on the desk in their room before the wedding," said Seanna.

"No wonder she didn't mind turning over the film and the sim card. They had already downloaded the pictures," said Daffyd. "They didn't lose any time getting them published."

"Which probably means they had already had a buyer lined up," Leal observed.

"Daffyd, I'm so sorry," sobbed Seanna. Her mother put her arms around her and looked at her husband questioningly.

"Seanna, it was bound to happen sooner or later. I have been living with this type of thing for years. I'm just sorry that you had to suffer because of this young man's choice to make an easy buck off of someone else's private life," said Daffyd.

"No more hiding then?" asked Bryce.

"Well, obviously they know I'm married. But I don't think I want to reveal anything else yet. Eventually I wanted to go public with my new life, but I just don't think I'm ready to be any kind of a spokes person for Christianity. It's still pretty new.

When we get home, I'll see what we can do for damage control. Hopefully they don't know where we live."

"I never mentioned who you were, how could they have known?" asked Seanna.

"You'd be surprised how they can get their information. I'm sure they had some before he ever approached you in the café," said Leal.

"I'm going to look into it as soon as we get back. I want to know who that guy is," said Daffyd.

"We need to make sure that Seanna is safe," demanded Bryce. "Man, _now_ I wish I would have punched him back."

"Why don't we all get some food in our stomachs and you can deal with all of this later. There isn't anything you can do about it sitting here in the airport," suggested Sally.

"I'm not sure there is anything we can do about it any way, you know, spilt milk and all of that. But I do want to make sure that this guy stays out of our lives from here on out," said Daffyd. "Seanna, don't worry. It wasn't your fault. Sally's right, let's all eat and spend our last few minutes together enjoying each other's company."

"I don't think I can eat," said Seanna sadly.

"Wow..." said Bryce with his eyebrows in his hairline.

"What?" asked Alyssa.

"If Sea, isn't eating, this must be a bigger deal than we think!" he teased, not being able to handle seeing her so hurt. Seanna's head shot up and saw he was teasing. She grabbed her straw and shot it across the table at him.

"Ok...maybe I can eat a little," she said opening her menu.

"There's my little sister," said Bryce as Seanna peeked over her menu at him.

#  Chapter 12

# Give Me a Break

As soon as Daffyd got back to Montana, he contacted a private detective to fish out all the information he could on Kevin and Carrie. Then after much soul searching, he also got in touch with his old manager, Barry, and his most recent band members. He explained all that had happened with the cancer, his abduction and his marriage. For the most part, they were all understanding, and forgiving, even if they didn't understand his conversion. Then he sat down with Samantha and Pastor Bill to formulate a plan for his future.

At Berkley, Bryce was having a hard time getting back into his school work after their vacation in Belize. He was constantly worried about Seanna and wondering how she was faring. Though he still called her, her frequent business kept their conversations short and he could tell things were different. After the first month, he made it a point of just calling once a week. Seanna had only called him twice and both times said she was on her way to class and was just checking up on her big brother. Every conversation just drove him deeper into despair about how much things had changed between them. _Lord, I'd be content to just have my little sister back,_ he prayed over and over, knowing full well that was not what he wanted at all. He wanted Seanna to love him the way he loved her.

Seanna on the other hand went back to school with a vengeance. After the first couple of days she stopped looking over her shoulder. Neither Kevin, nor Carrie was seen around the campus or at the café where she worked. Picking up extra hours there, and throwing herself headlong into her classes, Seanna didn't give herself time to even think about Bryce.

Occasionally she would get so lonely for him, that she would call. But as soon as she heard his voice, her heart felt like it was breaking and she'd make some excuse to hang up. Not wanting to give up all relations with him, she pushed the whole little sister angle. Whenever she thought of summer break, she was torn between anticipation of seeing him, and dread of the exact same thing.

Alyssa, oblivious to all the issues between her new friends, called them both frequently. She was looking forward to spending the summer with them all in Montana. Her last call to Seanna, she had shared some of the plans that her and Bryce had made for the few weeks they would be spending together in Arizona with Bryson and Lucille. Seanna tried her best to stuff the feelings of jealousy and to be a friend to Alyssa. She did love her, and knew that she was a great person. _She'll make a good wife to Bryce some day,_ she repeatedly told herself, trying to prepare herself for the summer of having them both in the same house.

Seanna had almost forgotten about Kevin and the fact that Daffyd's face had been all over the tabloids for the past month, when she got a call from Daffyd. "Hey, Daffyd. How's mom?"

"She's wonderful. We both are and we're looking forward to having our kids home for the summer," he said. "I know usually your mom is the one who calls, but I heard back from the detective and thought you should hear what he found out."

"Ok...I guess..." she answered with a sigh.

"If you'd rather not, Seanna..." said Daffyd.

"No, I need to, it's just that I kind of forgot about him, and I hate to think about it all again. I know that sounds terrible after all he did to you, and I know you can't forget about it with all the hype and publicity," she explained.

"It's all going to turn out for the best, Seanna. Though I wasn't too thrilled about it all, it made me think about how I have handled my whole privacy thing. I called Barry and the guys and came clean with them about the cancer and about my accepting Jesus into my heart. Now your Mom and I are working things out so that I can use my talent and my voice for His glory instead of my own."

"Daffyd, that's great! _Now_ I can handle hearing what you found out about that jerk."

"First of all, he isn't a student, and neither is she. He's a car salesman and she is a dancer at a club. Apparently, they overheard you on the phone with Bryce one day last spring and heard you talking about me. They found out who you were and kept tabs on you until you left for summer break. When school started they found out were you worked and started dropping by occasionally. By that time they had the whole plan hatched. Kevin was supposed to get close to you so that he could find out where I was. Carrie really did take photography classes at some point and does a little free lancing here and there. They must have thought they had hit the jackpot when you invited him to come to the wedding."

"I should have known better. I'm not exactly a guy magnet. Is there anything you can do, press charges or anything?" she asked.

"Nope, we invited him. They were clear that she was going to be taking pictures and even though we asked for the film and the sim card, we never specified that they couldn't keep or download any copies. But he _is_ in jail."

"What?" she said puzzled.

"My guy also found out that he had been embezzling money from the car lot where he worked. All it took was a little sit-down with the owner, and because we had the proof he needed, he called the authorities. That's how he got Kevin to confess about the way he stalked you, he pretended to be there to help him get out of his other charges. So I guess he's pretty much out of the picture, and unless you are going to start club hopping at topless dancer joints, you shouldn't run in to his cousin," he ended with a laugh.

"Well, he got what he deserved in the end, and things are better for you, so now I'm going to try and put this behind me," said Seanna with a confidence that she didn't feel.

"There's my girl! Your mom has been worried about you. You don't call as much as you usually do, and Bryce says he doesn't hear from you as often any more either," Daffyd said with concern.

"I took extra hours at the café and I'm just trying to get my last quarter grades up," she justified.

"Seanna, if you need money, you don't have to take on extra hours at work. You know that I have more than I could ever spend and you're family to me."

"I know, it's not that. One of the other waitresses just had a baby and I'm covering some of her hours until she can come back to work," she explained. _That isn't a total lie; I am covering her hours, all of them._

"So you're ok then?" he asked relieved.

"Super, getting all 'A's and tucking the extra cash away in my savings account," she said with pride.

"You'll have to give Bryce a call then and get him going. He said he got bad grades on his last two papers," said Daffyd.

"Will do. That's odd, he usually gets better grades than me," she mused.

"I think he just needs a break," suggested Daffyd.

"Me too," sighed Seanna.

"Summer will be here before you know it. You'll be here a couple of weeks before Bryce, so it'll give us some time just us. Well, just you and me, your mom and Trisha and Leal," he chuckled.

"Do you ever get tired of having so many people around?" she teased.

"Not when they all are so special to me," he answered.

"Seriously though, you and mom should take a trip just the two of you this summer, while we're all there to help out," suggested Seanna.

"You know...that's not a bad idea. Maybe I'll surprise your mom and take her somewhere special. Keep that our little secret, ok?" he asked.

"Sure. You know she always wanted to go to Ireland, just saying."

"Hmmm, and I have wanted to go to Wales, I think I'm gonna do some internet surfing. Well, Seanna, we both love you and remember if you need anything, just use that credit card. Don't work yourself too hard."

"Ok, I'll try not to. I love you. Give mom a kiss and a hug and tell her I'll call her this weekend for sure," she promised.

# Chapter 13

# There's No Place Like Home

Seanna was relieved to finally be at Mountain Home, especially since Bryce and Alyssa hadn't arrived yet. After all of her hard work the last quarter of school, she was exhausted. She did have a 4.0 grade point average to show for it as well as a couple of hundred dollars in the bank. Now, the only thing she was going to work on was a tan and maybe a good book. Between her mom and Daffyd, there were two libraries to choose from! She had decided to just let things play themselves out once Bryce and Alyssa arrived and not to stress about how she might feel, or how things might go.

Her first morning home, she awoke to the smell of Trisha's homemade muffins. Throwing on some short and a tank top, she hurried downstairs to get some while they were still warm. _It's good to be home_ , she thought as she saw her loved ones gathered at the table. She hadn't realized how much she missed being here with them all, and now she couldn't help thinking that it just wasn't complete without Bryce.

"Good morning. We let you sleep, seeing how tired you were when you got off of the plane," said Samantha.

"Good morning. I slept like a baby. My bed here is the most comfortable bed I ever had. But when I smelled those muffins, I just couldn't lay there any longer," she replied while she grabbed a plate and sat down.

"You better have two," said Trisha. "You look like you've lost weight since spring break."

"Maybe a couple of pounds, I haven't been pigging out as much as usual," explained Seanna.

"Having a healthy appetite is not pigging out," said Daffyd.

"You're not on some fad diet are you?" asked Samantha with a mother's concern.

"No," laughed Seanna, "I'm good. Look two muffins _and_ about a pound of real butter."

"You just look so tired and skinny," Samantha replied.

"Well, I'm not waiting tables or doing school work for the whole summer, so I will get lots of rest. Now that I am here with Trisha's good cooking, and I am not eating café food or school cafeteria food, I'm sure I'll gain a few pounds. So stop worrying, Mom."

"Ok, I'll stop worrying," Samantha said with a pat on Seanna's hand.

"Ha!" snorted Daffyd.

"I am getting better," said Samantha looking at her husband for confirmation.

"You are," he smiled. "We are all still working on something, aren't we?"

"Not me," teased Leal, "I'm pretty much perfect."

That made Seanna choke on her muffin, and her Mom smacked her on the back as they all laughed. "Wow, way to be humble, Honey," said Trisha.

"It's good to be home," said Seanna shaking her head.

Bryce and Alyssa were enjoying their time together in Arizona. Though they spent a lot of time with Bryce's grandparents, they still had time for Alyssa to show him the area. His grandparents had only been there for a few years since they had retired, and usually Bryce just hung out with them.

So they spent one day rock hunting in the hills and Bryce was thrilled at all of the specimens he found. He wanted to take them all to Montana to show the rest of the family. Alyssa convinced him to leave half of them behind knowing how much it would cost to ship them, or to take them on the plane. Most evenings they stayed up later than the older couple and talked until the wee hours of the night. That's what they were doing the night before they were catching the plane.

Alyssa was sitting in a wicker chair on the front porch, and Bryce was leaning against the railing facing her. She had been sharing her whole story of what had happened between her and Jeffry, having only shared small bits and pieces before.

"So, do you still love him?" asked Bryce.

"Sometimes I think I still do," she sighed. "But I'm trying to move past it all."

"And how does one do that, exactly?" he asked, thinking of his one-sided feelings for Seanna.

"I wish I knew," she laughed. "It would be great if there was just some formula or plan to heal a broken heart, but unfortunately there isn't. I know that God says that he 'binds up the broken hearted', but I guess it must be a process. It doesn't hurt as much as it used too. In fact it doesn't hurt much at all, since I got saved. But when I think of what could have been...or what a great guy he is...I guess I still get sad and sentimental. So...yeah, maybe I do still love him."

"I always thought that love was supposed to be something that just came naturally, or at least was supposed to bring happiness and contentment."

"I guess that's the way it's supposed to be, but most of the time we screw it up," answered Alyssa.

"Sometimes we love someone who doesn't love us back," Bryce replied sadly, turning to look out at the night sky.

"Are you speaking from experience?" asked Alyssa quietly.

"Yeah, I am," said Bryce. Alyssa stood and walked over to stand beside Bryce.

"Do you want to talk about it?" she inquired.

"Not especially. It's still pretty painful."

"My heart is mending, yours will too," she said lying her hand on his back.

"I seem to get caught up in this pity party and can't get out of it. My grades were awful for the last quarter. I couldn't seem to concentrate and I would find myself daydreaming about what I could have done, or what I should have done different," he shared.

"Have you talked to anyone about it? It does help to share. What about Seanna? You two are pretty close," she suggested.

"She has a lot on her plate right now. We haven't talked as much since the wedding. She seems a little distant. It would be nice to have someone just call me back to the real world when I start getting depressed," he said.

"Well, I can do that. If you spend so much time in your emotions and feelings, it's like we are building a concrete barrier around our heart. I guess it's a defense mechanism. If you ever feel like sharing, I'm a pretty good listener. In the mean time, when it looks like your getting too introspective, I'll just say, 'how's your heart'. That will be your reminder to allow yourself to be open to the future and stop dwelling on the past," she said.

"Good idea. So, how's your heart?" he asked.

"Softer every day, mostly because of the care of your grandma, and with God's love. I'm so glad I get to spend the summer with you and Seanna. That will help me keep my mind off of my own troubles."

"I'm glad you're going to be there too. I'm a little worried about how things will be between me and Sea."

"I'm sure once you are all together again; she'll be the same little sister," Alyssa assured him.

"Yeah...my little sister." He said sadly. " It will be nice to be home again. I always look forward to being with my family. I may not have a lot of family left, but it seems that our family just keeps growing."

"Yeah, my parent's house really doesn't feel like home. No offence to your grandparents either, I don't feel real at home here. They have tried to make me feel welcome, but...I can't help feeling like I am imposing, you know?" she said. "I guess partly it's because I know it is only temporary. Kind of like your dorm at school."

"Something about Mountain Home makes you feel like you belong there. You'll see," he encouraged her.

"If not, I guess I'll just have to wait until I get a home of my own. I have dreams of a little white house with a picket fence, kids running around in the yard, and maybe a black lab."

"That sounds just like a commercial," he laughed.

# Chapter 14

# Summer Fun

Alyssa had to agree about Mountain Home. Bryce showed her around the house as they killed time for the family to get home from church. Trisha had left a note on the bar letting them know which room Alyssa would be staying in. Bryce was a little relieved that Seanna wasn't there. He really didn't know how she was going to react, not even sure of how his own reaction would be. Alyssa noticed his nervous energy and asked him what was wrong. He wrote it all off as being excited to be home, and from sitting in the plane for so long. Finally she suggested they go to the pool to work off his extra energy.

That is where Seanna found them when she got home. She stood at the glass door and watched them playing around in the water. Bryce was tossing Alyssa over his shoulder and she was diving backwards into the deep end. Something inside of her died. She was pretty sure that it was hope. Taking a deep breath, and saying a quick prayer for God to help her, she walked out to welcome her big brother and her friend.

"Hey you two!" she yelled from the patio.

"Hey, Sea!" said Bryce with a big grin. He couldn't help it, he _was_ excited to see her again.

"This place is great!" said Alyssa as she climbed out of the pool. Seanna tossed her a towel as Alyssa came to give her a hug.

Bryce was slower in coming her way and instead of one of his normal bear hugs, he awkwardly gave Seanna a one armed sideways hug. "How are you?" he asked.

"Good, glad to be taking a break from...life," she said with a small smile. "Have you two been having a good time so far this summer?"

"Yep, Alyssa and I explored the area. I even brought some cool rocks to show you all. You would have liked it," he said with a smile.

"We missed you," chimed in Alyssa.

Seanna appreciated the fact that they were trying to make her feel better and like she was missed. She was going to do her best to be a good friend and sister. "I missed you both, too. Trisha is putting a feast on the table. She asked me to fetch you both."

"I knew that we should have waited. Bryce wanted to raid the fridge the minute we got here," said Alyssa slapping Bryce with her towel.

"Hey, I can't help it. I'm a growing boy," he teased grabbing her towel away from her.

"Yeah, growing fat!" Alyssa laughed.

Seanna tried not to be jealous of their playful banter. _That used to be you and Bryce. Now you've ruined it._ "Ok, then, let's go eat." She said as she turned and walked back into the house.

But, once they were all around the table, having taken some time with all of the hugging, and "how-are-you"-ing, Seanna couldn't help feeling at ease and thankful for them all. Bryce teased her in his usual manner. Trisha and Leal always made her laugh, and it was more than obvious that Daffyd and her mom were extremely happy in their married life together. At one point when the two of them exchanged a look across the table, Seanna even got choked up over it _. I want someone to look at her that way,_ she sorrowed. Never even realizing that's exactly how Bryce _was_ looking at her.

"Are you feeling ok, Honey?" Samantha asked her daughter.

"Yeah, I'm just not real hungry," she answered.

"You only had a piece of toast for breakfast," said Samantha.

"Mom, don't worry. I had a snack with the kids in children's church this morning. Too much crackers and peanut butter," Seanna said trying to make light of it.

"Oh, do you help with the little ones?" asked Alyssa.

"I offered to help over the summer on Sunday mornings. They still need some helpers on Wednesday nights if you would be interested," suggested Seanna.

"You don't do Wednesday?" Alyssa inquired.

"They like to have us sit in on one service a week, so just Sundays," answered Seanna.

"I think I'd like to help. What about you Bryce?" she asked him.

"I agreed last fall to help them with the youth group this summer. They meet on Friday nights," he explained.

"That might be more fun," mused Alyssa.

"Why don't the two of you volunteer together," suggested Daffyd.

"Sure, you get along so great. You should," piped in Seanna. _One less day I'll have to see them together._

"Ok, let's do it. Are you sure you wouldn't want to come with us?" Alyssa asked Seanna.

"No. I love the little ones. In fact I may volunteer part time at the Summer Fun program they have for the school age kids."

"What is that?" asked Alyssa.

"It's kind of like daycare. Only they play games and take the kids on field trips. They are trying to provide an alternative to just plain babysitting over the summer. They do a ministry time with the kids every day and do craft projects. They can't afford to pay for extra help so they asked for a few volunteers," Seanna was excited about the prospect of having something to do for others this summer. Thinking it would help take her mind off of herself.

"How many days a week would you be helping," asked Samantha.

"This morning, the director said they need someone three days a week. They already have two other volunteers that can do one day each. They aren't open on the weekends."

"I thought you wanted to relax this summer," said her mother.

"Playing with the kids is relaxing. It sure beats waiting tables and cramming for exams," she joked.

"Sound good to me," said Leal. "I love kids. Maybe I'll donate a day a week."

"Hey, we could do a day together. I don't think they'd mind having some extra hands," offered Trisha.

"You two need to have some kids of your own," teased Bryce.

"We're working on it," said Leal with a big smile, while his wife kicked him under the table.

"Wow...our family is growing," teased Seanna.

"We aren't in any big hurry. We are leaving it all in God's hands," said Trisha trying not to be embarrassed.

"How often do they take the kids on field trips?" asked Daffyd.

"I think they try to go at least twice a week. They don't want to go too much, some of the households are one income families and they can't afford to pay for a lot," Seanna replied.

"I think maybe I could help out a little with that...but I was thinking, they could come out here to use the pool or for hiking," Daffyd offered.

"That would be great! Then we could all help on those days. I could make a nice lunch for them and we could picnic outside..." Trisha thought out loud.

"We could do sack races and games in the yard," Samantha put in her ideas.

"Ok, I think I'll call Sarah. She's in charge. I'm sure she'd be thrilled with all of the idea's and offers for help," said Seanna as she excused herself from the table.

"This summer is going to be fun," punned Bryce.

The very next week, there were thirty kids between the ages of five and twelve at Mountain Home. Half of them were splashing around in the pool. Leal, Alyssa, Bryce and a staff member from the church were all in there with them. The other half were playing games in the yard with Daffyd, Seanna and Sarah, the Summer Fun Director.

Samantha had opted to help Trisha in the kitchen to set up their picnic. She had spent so many years teaching that she didn't have quite the same exuberance as the others. Using her teacher's voice had come in handy several times that morning though. They had sandwiches, three different kinds, chips and gallons of homemade lemonade ready to roll. Trisha had even made a pile of chocolate chip cookies the day before.

The plan was to have half of the kids play games while the other half swam, and then they would eat lunch, apply more sunscreen and then switch for the afternoon. So far the morning was going quickly and it was almost time to eat. Sarah had the ones from the pool get out and dry off, five at a time. They went inside to use the bathroom, put on dry clothes and reapply sunscreen.

The outside bunch was doing the opposite, bathroom break, putting on suits and sunscreen. Then they were directed to the blankets that had been set up in the shadier areas of the yard. The two downstairs bathrooms were being well used, as well as the one outside next to the pool. Soon they were all seated, Sarah had prayed and they were enjoying Trisha's picnic food. They had all worked up quite the appetite.

As Seanna was coming out of the house with a load of blanket, she crashed into Bryce who was coming in with a little one who forgot to use the bathroom. He caught her with one arm before she fell and managed to push the little one out of harm's way with the other.

"Whoa, in a hurry aren't you?" said Seanna with a grin.

"We missed one, and we don't want an accident during our picnic," said Bryce still holding Seanna around the waist.

"As much as I'm enjoying standing here with all these blankets, I think you better get a move on or that accident may happen here in the doorway," laughed Seanna.

Bryce looked down at the little guy doing the potty-dance and gave Seanna a look of regret as he let her go. After taking a few steps, he turned in time to see her still standing in the door looking back at him. She blushed and hurried out when he grinned at her. While Bryce was taking care of business, Seanna got the blankets distributed and the adults helped all of the children find a place to eat. Leal asked God to bless the food and they all settled in to eat.

"Miss Seanna?" asked one little tike sitting next to her on one of the blankets. He was a five year old, tow headed boy with big blue eyes. She had taken a liking to the little guy, especially when she had found out that his mother had run off after Christmas.

"Yes, Peter," she said, giving him her full attention.

"Is this your house?" he asked looking up at the mansion.

"No, it belongs to my step dad, Daffyd, the one who was helping me with the games."

"But you live here, right?" he asked.

"Yes, I live here in the summer when we don't have school. My mom lives here all the time with Daffyd and Leal and Trisha. Bryce and Alyssa are here for the summer, just like me," she explained.

"Are they your family?" he continued.

"Well, we aren't all related, but we are family. God brought us all together and made us a family," she tried to help him understand.

"I wish God would bring us a family," he said wistfully.

"You have a family, silly," she said roughing his hair. "Your Dad picks you up from summer fun."

" _That's_ not a family. That's just me and dad. My Mom doesn't live with us anymore, and we just live in a little apartment. We don't even have a yard," he said taking another bite of his sandwich.

"Well, before we came here, it was just me and my mom too. We lived in a little house by ourselves for awhile. Then my mom moved into a little apartment and I stay in something smaller than an apartment when I am at school," she hoped to make him feel better.

"What's smaller than an apartment," he asked looking up at her with doubt in his eyes.

"It's called a dorm room," she laughed. I have to share it with another girl. We don't even have our own bathroom. We have to share that with a bunch of other girls!"

"We have our own bathroom. And I have my own room," he boasted.

"See, it doesn't matter how big or how little your house is, or even how big your family is. All that matters is that you love one another," she told the little guy.

"Yeah, but I'm still gonna ask God to find me a new mom," he said crunching his chips.

Seanna just shook her head, wondering how any mother could have walked out on such a cute little boy. Bryce watched some of the interaction from across the yard. His heart warmed at the way the little boy looked up at Seanna.

All in all the day was a great success. They all agreed that a trip to Mountain Home would take place on a weekly basis. This would be a volunteer day for them all, which left two more days for Seanna at the church. Agreeing to Monday and Wednesday, with Tuesday's taking place with the kids at Daffyd's. That only left four days a week of dealing with Bryce and Alyssa's growing relationship. Quite frequently she caught them talking about something, only for them to clam up when she walked into the room. Friday evenings they were gone to help with the youth meetings and that night had become the unofficial movie night for the rest of the household.

Most of the time, the whole family was together, so she didn't have to worry, too much, about feeling like a third wheel. On several times she amazed herself at being able to just be herself around them, almost as if nothing had come between her and Bryce. After all Alyssa and Bryce were just good people. They enjoyed each other's company, liked to joke and it was just fun to be around them.

Bryce too was pleased with how the summer was progressing. To him, it seemed that Seanna was willing to just forget about the past and resume their sibling relationship. Though they didn't confide in each other the way they used to, Alyssa had taken up the position of confidant. He finally confessed his feelings for Seanna and how he had messed up in the motel room that night. She recommended that he talk to Seanna about how he felt, but he made her promise not to say anything.

# Chapter 15

# Moving On

Seanna got to know the parents of the children she worked with being there when most of them picked up in the afternoon. Some liked to chat about how their little ones did during the day, and sometimes Seanna had to relate some bad behavior or issues that the encountered during the day. So it was no surprise one evening when Peter's father stayed to chat. She had become quite attached to the boy since the day they talked on the picnic blanket over sandwiches and lemonade.

"How was he today?" asked Peter's father. He was a nice looking guy that looked to be in his early thirties, with dark hair, cut in a close cropped military style. Seanna recognized the wounded look in his eyes.

"He was great. He always is," she said with a smile.

"I didn't get a chance to thank you for what you said to Peter a couple of weeks ago," he said shyly.

"What did I say?" she asked as she watched Peter playing on the swing set.

"He said you talked to him about your dorm room, and family. Whatever it was, he seemed more content with the new apartment. Thing haven't been the best since his mom left. With only one income, the apartment was our only option. He's a good kid though," explained his father.

"It was nothing. We just had a conversation. I like hanging out with him. His questions catch me off guard sometimes, but he is a lot of fun," she laughed.

"I know you don't know me very well...but, I was wondering. Would you like to go out Friday night with me?" he asked hopefully. "Unless, that isn't cool, with you being his teacher and all."

"Um...sure. I think that would be fine. Do you have someone to watch Peter for you?" she asked. She knew it was time to get on with her life.

"My mom likes to keep him overnight every other Friday. They go for pizza and she rents kids movies," he answered.

"Ok. I'll meet you in town. We live so far out..." she said, wanting to have her own vehicle just in case.

"Sure. Why don't we meet at Carl's at seven o'clock? That's the place next to the bowling alley. It's a bar and a restaurant, they have great food," he suggested.

"I know where it is. Friday night at seven," she said as she stood to retrieve Peter.

Friday was hot and dry, most of the day they spent in the pool or in the shade sipping on cold drinks. The guys had decided to make lunch for the girls and were inside doing their best to come up with something amazing, when Bryce came out handing Alyssa his cell phone. He told her that it was his grandmother Lucille. Alyssa took the call and walked away from the rest of the group to talk in private.

Bryce waited for her to finish with his phone and evaded all of their questions about what they might be having for lunch. When Alyssa returned his phone she looked sadly at Bryce and went into the house. When they called her to lunch, she said she wasn't feeling well and was going to go to bed.

When she came down later that night, she told Bryce that Jeff had called Lucille looking for her. Not wanting to give out Alyssa's number, she had promised Jeff that she would let Alyssa know that he wanted to talk. Lucille had taken his number and given it to her earlier. Now she was confused. All of her old emotions were coming to the surface and she was scared. Bryce comforted her the best way he knew how and encouraged her to go home and talk with Jeff in person. When she agreed and just sat there crying, he leaned over to hold her.

Meanwhile, Seanna was ready for her date. Now that the time was here, she wished she hadn't agreed to go. Feeling sorry for someone wasn't a good way to start a relationship. As she was heading down the stairs she had pretty much made up her mind to call and cancel when she saw Bryce and Alyssa hugging on the couch. She choked back the tears and quietly headed out for her dinner date. _You need to go. You can't come between them. And it's just dinner with a guy who is lonely._

By the time she got to Carl's she had calmed down and accepted her fate. Peter senior was there waiting for her, and she had to admit he cleaned up pretty good. It was the first time she had seen him out of his work clothes.

Samantha thought it was all going well until half way through dessert, he looked at his plate and shook his head, "Seanna, I'm sorry...I just can't do this. You're a nice girl and all, but I don't think I'm ready to date."

"Oh...Peter its ok, really. I'm not looking for a relationship right now either," she assured him.

"I somehow thought that with Peter liking you so much that...I don't know...I'm an idiot. Look, I'm just gonna go. I'll pay for everything on my way out. Sorry," he looked close to tears.

"Ok, look, no big deal. I'll see you when you drop your little guy off on Monday," Seanna said, not wanting things to be strained between them.

"Yeah, thanks for being so understanding," he gave her a sheepish smile.

Seanna picked at the remainder of her dessert and finally gave up. _So much for trying to move on. I guess nobody wants me, Kevin never did, Bryce is in love with Alyssa and now super-dad still loves his ex._ She was on her way out when a group of guys came in.

"Where you going little lady?" asked the better looking one in the bunch.

"Home," she said trying to walk around them.

"Aw, but it's still early. Why don't you let me buy you a drink?" he asked with a friendly smile. "Don't let the other guys scare you, they're not as mean as they look. I'm Chad, my buddies and I just got done helping a friend move and we decided to grab a few beers. Why don't you join us?"

_Why not?_ she thought, saying "Sure...ok."

# Chapter 16

# Incalculable Error

Seanna knew she had had too much to drink. She knew that she shouldn't be in this motel room with a guy she just met at a bar, she knew that she was making all the wrong decisions, but she just was so past caring that she turned off that still small voice. _I just want to forget! Is that so terrible!_ Stumbling into the room with Chad, Seanna laughed as she closed the door behind them. He obviously wasn't as drunk as she was. He wasn't having any trouble standing as she clung to him. What he took as passions was simply her attempt at staying upright.

Soon she found herself on the bed and Chad was whispering in her ear. The room was spinning around her and her heart was literally pounding in her ears. She willed her mind to shut up, but it rebelliously continued to replay the picture of Bryce and Alyssa in each other's arms. Though she could feel Chad's wet kisses and could feel his hands roaming over her body, she felt unattached to what was happening. It was as if she was out of her body watching from the edge of the room. What she saw disgusted her. A drunken woman, makeup smeared, hair in disarray, half dressed, in an intimate situation with a total stranger, pawing and panting like an animal. Suddenly she was back in her body and struggling to get out from under the weight. Pushing with all of her might, she managed to shove Chad off.

"What the hell?" he exclaimed.

"Get out!" she cried. "Get out!"

"What's wrong with you? Are you on drugs?" he exclaimed as he picked himself up off the floor.

"I made a mistake...I can't," she said tears streaming.

"Hey, I already paid for the room!" he interjected.

Seanna got up and grabbed her purse, she dug through her wallet and grabbed some cash. He grabbed the bottle of booze and held out his hand for the money. As he walked out she reached over and took the bottle out of his hand.

"Keep it," he sneered as he walked out of the room.

Seanna locked the deadbolt and sagged against the door. Within minutes she was even more drunk and more depressed. Managing to wash the makeup off of her face and get partially undressed, she flopped into the bed. Lying in bed, feeling so alone and shaken over her behavior, All rational thought had vanished. She could only think of one thing. Bryce. She needed Bryce.

Bryce and Alyssa were sitting on the patio, having talked way into the night, when his phone rang. "It's Sea," he said with his brows drawn together. "Hello."

"Bryce..." she slurred.

"Sea, what's wrong? Where are you?" he asked.

"Bryce I messed up...you won't love me anymore..." she said incoherently.

"Sea, are you drunk?" he asked in shock.

"It's all my fault...I just needed someone..."

" _Seanna,_ where are you?" he demanded.

"I'm at a motel...keep-away...no..." she giggled, "Sleepaway."

"The one in town? Are you ok?" he looked at Alyssa with fear in his eyes.

"Mmmm...yeah...?" she continued to slur.

"Seanna, I'm coming, ok? Don't hang up! I'm on my way," he cupped his hand over the phone and told Alyssa that he was going to go get her. "If we aren't back before morning, cover for us, ok?"

"Sure, be careful," answered Alyssa, following Bryce to the house. "Call me when you get there."

"Seanna, are you alone?" he asked turning his attention back to his phone.

"Yep, he's gone...I couldn't...he's gone," she answered.

"Who's gone?" he asked as he piled into the car.

"Umm...I can't remember...it wasn't you...I'm your sister..."

"Yes, Sea, you're my sister, Big Bro is on his way," he assured her.

"No, don't want a brother...want _you..._ bye, Bryce...bye..."

"Seanna, don't hang up!" he was too late, she was gone. He tried dialing her back several times on his way to town. When he was almost there she finally picked up the phone, but must have dropped it. He could hear her breathing and that was good enough for him.

It wasn't until he pulled into the motel, that he realized he didn't know what room she was in. Running into the lobby, he rang the bell for the night clerk.

"Need a room?" asked the sleepy woman as she came out of a back room.

"No, I'm looking for my sister. She called from here and asked me to come and get her. I think she passed out and I don't know what room she is in," he explained.

"Short girl with dark curly hair?" asked the desk clerk.

"Yeah, that's her," he answered.

"I saw her go into room twenty-one earlier with the guy that paid for the room. She looked pretty wasted. He didn't stay long, squealed out of here quite a while ago," she said handing Bryce a room key. "Hope she's ok."

Bryce didn't even bother knocking, but just let himself into the room. Seanna was curled up in one of the beds with her cell lying on the pillow next to her. He shut off her phone and quickly called Alyssa and let her know that he had found Seanna. "She's passed out. I think we'll just stay here and let her sleep it off. Can you just tell everyone in the morning that we had to come into town? I'll let Seanna explain what she wants to later."

"Sure, are you ok?" asked Alyssa sleepily.

"Yeah, I'll feel better once I know what happened. She checked in with some guy," he sounded clearly shaken.

"Well, try to get some sleep; I'll pray for you both. Night, Bryce."

"Thanks, good-night Alyssa."

Bryce made sure the door was locked then as carefully and quietly as he could, he took Seanna's shoes off, pulled down the heavy bed spread and covered her lightly with just the sheet. He stroked her heavy hair away from her damp face and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. Checking the air conditioner, he saw that it was turned up as high as it would go. Since Seanna was oblivious, he felt comfortable stripping down to his boxers and wearily flopped into the other double bed. Sleep came much more quickly than he thought it would and he slipped into fragmented dreams.

Sometime during the night, Seanna awoke to a full bladder and total disorientation. Silver moonlight was streaming into the room from a gap between the curtains. She looked around, finally recognizing her surroundings. Memories came crashing in as she realized where she was. Noticing a body in the bed next to hers caused her heart to jump into her throat.

Getting to the bathroom quietly, not wanting to wake up her unwanted roommate, ended up being harder than it should of, obviously she was still a little drunk. Once she emptied her bladder, she decided to try and sneak out of the room. Tiptoeing past the man in the bed to find her shoes and her purse, she couldn't help but take a last look on the person she had spent the night with. The moon light lit up the face in the bed next to her.

Byrce! How did he get here? Did I call him...what did I say to him. I told him I loved him and didn't want to be his sister...he came...Bryce.

She eased herself onto the bed next to him and watched him sleep for a few minutes. He was sleeping with his mouth slightly open and a slight smile on his face. It seemed so natural for Seanna to lie down next to him in the bed and snuggle into his side. Bryce stirred, and she thought she had woken him. But he only turned and put an arm around her. They were lying face to face. Seanna's heart felt like it was going to burst. Almost without her knowledge, she leaned in and kissed him softly on the mouth.

_Bryce was dreaming. He dreamt of Seanna...they were on the beach...kissing._ Somewhere between sleep and reality, Bryce returned Seanna's kisses. Losing herself to her long desire for Bryce's love, Seanna held tighter and her kisses became more desperate. He whispered her name and a soft moan escaped from her lips. Bryce came fully awake. Jerking away from Seanna, he pushed her away and looked into her face. _What am I doing?_

"Bryce..." she pleaded, and he could smell the liquor on her breath. She reached out and put her hands back around his neck, pulling him in.

"Seanna...stop," he said. He disentangled himself from her arms and sat on the edge of the bed. He sat there with his head in his hands.

Seanna crawled across the bed and laid her head against his back. "Bryce?"

He stood up from the bed, grabbing his pants and shirt. "Seanna, I'm sorry...go to sleep," he choked out. Shortly after he stormed into the bathroom, she heard the shower going. _I've ruined it! Now he won't even love me as a sister..._ Feeling ashamed for trying to seduce him, when clearly he was disgusted by her behavior, she finally cried herself to sleep.

Bryce stood in the shower totally appalled at his behavior. He had almost caused irreparable damage to the person he loved most in the world. Thank God, he had been able to come to his senses. She would never have been able to forgive him for taking advantage of her while she was under the influence. _How will she ever be able to forgive you now? How can she ever think of you as her brother again? Now you've lost her..._ He stayed in the shower until his fingers began to wrinkle. He took his time drying off and getting dressed. When he finally worked up the courage to

face Seanna, he found her sound asleep, curled up in his bed. Lying in her bed, it took much longer for him to fall asleep this time.

The next morning, Bryce awoke to the sound of Seanna leaving. "Where are you going," he asked panicking.

"I'm going to go get us some coffee. Then I just want to go home," she said refusing to look at him.

"Can we talk about this," he asked full of remorse.

"Not now," she said with her voice full of regret.

As soon as she shut the door, Bryce was up. By the time she got back he was waiting by the door. Seanna silently handed him his cup and stood walked back out the door. She followed him to the car and they both got in without exchanging a single word. It wasn't until they were about halfway home that Bryce tried again.

"Seanna, I just want..." he tried.

"Just drop it, Bryce. Nothing happened, just forget it."

"So...we're good?" he asked hopefully.

"Yeah, we're good," she said with a sigh.

"Will you still let me be your brother?" he asked.

Seanna gave a cynical laugh and said, "Siblings don't seduce each other." Tears again threatened. _How can he even think about forgiving my behavior?_

"No, you're right. They don't," he replied broken hearted. _She's right, I am a pig._ "Sea..." he said with his voice quavering.

"Shut up, Bryce. Please, just forget about it." They drove the rest of the way in silence. Both broken hearted.

# Chapter 17

# The Day After

When they got home, it was early. Everyone was still in bed and Seanna escaped to her room, flinging herself on the bed and allowing the release to come through her hot tears. Bryce turned on the coffee pot and went upstairs to take another shower and changing into fresh clothes. By the time he came downstairs; Alyssa was up and pouring herself a cup of coffee. She took one look at him and poured a second cup setting it on the bar in front of him.

"You look like crap," she said looking over at him.

"I feel worse."

"Want to talk about it?" she asked.

"It's such a mess...I still can't believe it..." he said shaking his head.

"Was she with another guy?" asked Alyssa with concern.

"She had been, Alyssa, I never even asked her what had happened...what if she had already..." he couldn't even finish the sentence, but started crying, elbows on the bar and head in his hands.

Alyssa placed one hand on his back and with the other she grabbed his arm, giving her what comfort she could. Seanna chose that time to look over the rail and saw the intimate moment between them. Her knees gave out and she sank to the floor. Putting her hand to her mouth, she managed to pull herself up and made her way back to her room. Alyssa waited patiently for Bryce to pull himself together. Finally he wiped his eyes with a napkin and giving his back a final pat, she picked up her coffee again.

"So what happened?" she asked gently.

"I got to the motel and the clerk said Seanna had shown up with some guy, both were drunk and apparently he didn't stay long. By the time I got into her room, she was passed out in the bed. I guess I was so stressed out on the way up there that I pretty much passed out as well. Then...I don't know, I was dreaming, or thought I was, but when I woke up...Seanna was in my bed... I almost let it go too far, we were kissing...she was still drunk, I could _smell_ the booze on her..." he tried to explain.

"But you didn't...let it go too far?" she asked softly.

"No! But, she was almost begging me to stay in bed. The poor girl...she's so vulnerable right now and I'm supposed to be her _brother._ I'm supposed to protect her from guys like that. Now, she doesn't even want to be my sister. I don't know what to do..."

"Look, why don't you give her some time, maybe a little space," she suggested.

"How do I do that, summer break isn't over for another month?" he asked.

"You could go with me. I'm a little nervous and could use the moral support. That would give you a good excuse to leave," she said.

"I hate that we'd both be leaving at the same time. But she doesn't want me, and you owe it to yourself to go and see what Jeff wants," he worried. "Do you think I should talk to Samantha about this?"

"I think that for right now, you should leave that choice to Seanna. They are pretty close."

"What's Samantha going to think about my seducing her daughter?" he lamented.

"I'm sure she will understand. We can't help who we love, Bryce. Samantha knows that, and I am sure, given time, that Seanna will be able to see that as well, and forgive you."

"I hope so...so what time are you leaving?" he asked.

"My flight leaves at one fifteen."

"I better call and see if I can get on that flight," he said. "Thanks, Alyssa."

Seanna slept through most of the day. Bryce had made up a story about having to go and pick Seanna up after she called him, saying she was too sick to drive. Samantha had peaked in to check on her daughter a couple of times. The first time she had been sleeping. The second time Samantha had heard her daughter crying softly into her pillow, but she had decided not to pry, knowing in her heart that Seanna was going through something that she had to work out on her own. By late afternoon, Seanna showered and changed and made her way downstairs.

Trisha and Samantha were in the kitchen doing dishes while Leal and Daffyd were getting things ready out on the patio for what looked like an evening of playing cards. The girls didn't hear Seanna come in, so Samantha was a little startled when her daughter gave her a hug from behind, resting her head on her mom's shoulder.

"Feeling better?" asked Samantha, as her daughter pulled away. "There is some left over's in the fridge, probably still warm."

"I think I'll just have some fruit," she answered as she grabbed a banana off of the counter and filled a big glass with water from the fridge.

"Where's Bryce and Alyssa?" she asked slowly pealing her banana.

"Didn't they tell you?" they left for Lucille and Bryson's earlier this afternoon.

"Oh, yeah...I guess I forgot," she said sadly. _Of course they left, they couldn't stand to be around you a minute longer._

"You know, I feel like I might be sick. I'm going to go back to bed," she said grabbing her water.

"If you need anything just holler," said Samantha. After she turned to leave, Samantha watched her daughter as she practically ran up the stairs.

"Do you think she has the flu?" asked Trisha.

"No...I think my daughter has a broken heart," answered Samantha. "She'll tell me about it when she is ready. I had hoped that she would wait awhile after all that crap with Kevin, but I guess you can't always choose when, or with whom you fall in love with."

"But she never even mentioned anyone," commented Trisha.

"I know. That bothers me a little. But she has been gone a lot and last night she said she was meeting a friend in town..." Samantha replied.

"Bryce was so good with her on the island, I wish he hadn't gone with Alyssa," said Trisha.

"She needed him too, and Seanna has all of us to help her. I hope things will go better for Alyssa than they are for my girl."

# Chapter 18

# The Balm of Forgiveness

Bryce and Alyssa sat at a table together in a quiet corner booth of a restaurant, waiting for Jeff's arrival. Alyssa had almost backed out. Shortly after they arrived at his grandma and grandpa's she'd called the number that Jeff had given to Lucille and they'd agreed to meet. Jeff had simply said he had something he needed to say to Alyssa, that he wanted to say in person. Now she sat chewing on her thumbnail and watching the entrance with a worried expression.

"Stop eating yourself," said Bryce as he reached over and pulled her hand away from her mouth.

"Sorry...thanks for coming," she repeated.

"Yeah, you already said that. Calm down, Alyssa. He probably just wants to get past this and move on with his life. We already went over this, tell him you're sorry for your behavior and allow him to say whatever he needs to say. He deserves that much from you. You can do this," he said looking her in the eye.

"I know. It's just that it had finally gotten a little easier. Not that I loved him any less, it just didn't hurt as much, you know?" she explained. "Oh, there he is."

Bryce turned enough to see the young man walking through the door. Though he looked as nervous as Alyssa, his eyes lit up when he noticed her. As soon as the spark arrived, it vanished when he realized that she wasn't alone. Bryce felt sorry for the guy and wanting to put him at ease, got out of the booth and reached out his hand.

"Hi, I'm Bryce. Lucille and Bryson are my grandparents. We've all kind of adopted Alyssa."

"Hi." He looked relieved as he firmly shook Bryce's hand. Nodding towards Alyssa with a shy smile, he slid into the bench across from them. The silence was just getting awkward when the waitress stopped to take their orders. Too nervous to eat, Alyssa and Jeff ordered drinks. Bryce's stomach hadn't been normal since his mad dash to town to find Seanna so he followed suit. Once they all had their drinks, Alyssa took a deep breath and dove in.

"Thanks for meeting me, Jeff. I've wanted to talk to you, but I didn't want to just force my way into your life again..."

"Aly..." he tried to interrupt.

"No, please. Just let me get this all out and I promise I'll listen to what you have to say." She pleaded. When he gave a short nod, she continued. "I have had a lot of time to think, and I know that I made a huge mistake. Not just the abortion, but the way I just shut you out, like it was all about me. I realize now that abortion doesn't just affect the woman. So...I just want to say I acted selfishly...and I'm sorry."

Jeff waited to make sure she was finished and stared at his glass of soda. Bryce could clearly tell that he was struggling to keep his emotions in check. Finally he cleared his throat and said, "That's why I wanted to talk to you too. I won't lie, I was devastated when you told me that the baby was gone, but you weren't the only one that was selfish. I have been going through some counseling with a support group at church and they helped me see that my abandoning you during such a traumatic time was inexcusable. I behaved badly..." He raised his tear filled eyes pleading with her to forgive. "Can you forgive me?"

"I need to ask you to forgive me!" she exclaimed.

"I guess we both need forgiveness. We won't be able to move on if we don't."

"I forgive you," she said quietly.

"I forgive you," he managed to choke out. After taking a drink and wiping his eyes, he looked uncomfortably at Alyssa for a minute and then started to stand. "Well, I guess I should go."

"Wait," said Bryce speaking for the first time. Jeff looked confused, but sat down and looked at Bryce expectantly.

Bryce turned to Alyssa and said, "Alyssa I think I'm going to go visit with Grandma and Grandpa. Why don't you tell Jeffry about the new man in your life and you just give me a call if you need a ride home later. You two should get something to eat."

"Jeff, can you stay for a while? There is something I want to tell you," she asked.

"Um...sure," he replied, not sure if he really wanted to hear about her new boyfriend.

As Bryce walked away, he heard Alyssa begin her story of how she had accepted Jesus as her Savior. He drove away praying that God would work things out for them. It was clear that Jeff still love Alyssa as much as she loved him. _As much as I still love Seanna,_ he thought. By the time he had arrived at his grandparent's his prayers had shifted into petitions for Seanna's happiness. While Alyssa shared with the man she loved, Bryce unloaded all of his grief and self-loathing with two people who would give him good council and who would help him find peace in the mess he had created.

# Chapter 19

# Repairing the Breach

The day after Bryce left, Seanna sat in the media room watching movies alone. She had begged out of going to church with everyone saying that she still wasn't feeling up to par, but assuring them she was well enough to stay home alone. Half way through 'The Way We Were', and a full box of Kleenex, her phone rang. Seeing it was Alyssa, she almost didn't answer it, but worried that something might have happened to Bryce; she gave in. "Hello."

"Seanna?" asked Alyssa.

"Yep, Alyssa, it's me," she answered wiping her nose with one hand

"Are you ok?" she asked concerned.

"I have the flu. That's why I didn't go to church," she lied.

"Oh, yeah, I forgot you guys are on hour earlier than we are. I just wanted to tell you my good news!" she exclaimed, while Seanna braced herself for another heart-stopper. _God, help me, they're engaged..._

"Jeff and I are back together!" she said happily.

"What...?" asked Seanna totally baffled.

"Yeah, that's why I flew home. Didn't anyone tell you? Lucille called right before you left for town Friday. Jeffry had called my mom and she gave him Lucille's number. She didn't want to give out Daffyd's number so she told him she'd call me. He told her he wanted to talk to me. I prayed about it and decided to just come home and meet him face to face. I was so scared and nervous. But we met and I told him I got saved and he told me that he still loved me!"

"What did Bryce say about that?" she asked fearing for his heart.

"He's the one who made Jeff stay long enough that we could talk things out," she said.

"But, I thought you two were..." now Seanna was really confused.

"What! Why would you think that?" Alyssa asked surprised.

"All those times I saw you two hugging and yesterday morning you were at the bar and you were rubbing his back..." Seanna said.

"The only times we ever hugged was when he was comforting me about Jeffry. And yesterday, I was comforting him, he felt awful about what happened at the motel," Alyssa explained.

"He told you about me coming on to him," she moaned.

"No...he said that _he_ was the one that got carried away..." Alyssa replied.

"Alyssa, I was the one who crawled into bed with him! What a mess. I love Bryce..." she stammered.

"I know, that's why he was so upset, he said that now you didn't even want to be his sister anymore," said Alyssa.

"No, Alyssa, I _love_ Bryce. Like you love Jeff."

"Oh...Oh!" Alyssa exclaimed. "You two are idiots!" she laughed.

"It's not funny, what the heck, Alyssa!"

"Seanna, listen. While we were on the island, Bryce started having feelings for you that were _not_ brotherly."

"He told you that?" asked Seanna in shock.

"He said that when he saw you walking down the aisle towards him that something shifted, but with Kevin there and all...well, he tried to just be the big brother."

"Alyssa... that's when I started feeling different about him too! But I thought he was just feeling sorry for me and pushing the brother thing to make me feel better. And I was pushing the two of you together because I thought he liked you!"

"See what I mean, idiots!" she laughed.

"I have to talk to him, can you put him on the phone or tell him to call me right back!" asked Seanna.

"Seanna I can't. He's already on the plane back to Montana, he'd have his cell off. He said that even though he was happy for me, he couldn't watch me put everything back together while his life was falling apart."

"What time is his plane coming in?" Seanna asked.

"Let me go ask Lucille," Seanna thought her heart was going to jump out of her chest while she waited for Alyssa to give her his arrival time. "He gets in at three your time."

"That doesn't give me much time," Seanna worried.

"For what?" asked Alyssa.

"To clean myself up and meet that plane!" exclaimed Seanna, as she headed for her room.

"I thought you had the flu? Do you feel like driving?" asked Alyssa.

"I lied. I just couldn't force myself to get over losing Bryce, as a brother even."

"Ok, you go girl!"

# Chapter 20

# At Last

Seanna had to drive like a maniac to get to the airport in time. Running even later after trying to make herself look good after two solid days of crying. The sundress she chose was one that Bryce had complemented her on several times. The color of the dress made her eyes seem greener than normal. All the excitement had put some color back in her cheeks and a little mascara and lip gloss finished it off. She had called her mom after leaving the house to tell her that she was picking Bryce up at the airport, and that she would explain everything when they got back.

Seanna had enough presence of mind to get the flight info from Lucille and now she was trying to find her way to the right gate. Checking the flight board, she realized that Bryce's flight had arrived ten minutes early. She found the right direction towards the gate and took off running. When she got to the gate, no one was there. Disappointed at missing him, she was just turning to leave when she remembered that he'd need to claim his luggage. Again she was racing to where the luggage was coming in off of the plain.

She could just see him bending over to grab his bag. Yelling his name she rushed through the crowd towards him. He turned at the sound of her voice and just had time to drop his bag when she crashed into him like a freight train. She had launched herself into the air and almost knocked them both over into the conveyer belt behind him. He had managed to not only catch her but was able to keep them upright. Seanna was clinging to him with her face buried in his neck, feet dangling above the ground.

"Oh, Bryce," she sobbed into his neck. "I've been such an idiot."

He managed to set her down on the solid ground. Grabbing his bag, with one hand on her lower back, he guided her out of the crowd, most of whom were smiling their way. "Seanna, what are you doing here?"

"I couldn't wait until you got back," she explained as he eased her into a seat in one of the waiting areas.

"What's wrong?" he asked grabbing one of her hands in both of his, searching her face with his big brown eyes. "Take a deep breath and just tell me, Sea."

"Bryce Sayvage, I am totally and hopelessly in love with you," she said losing herself in those gentle eyes.

"But, Sea...I don't understand," he said bewilderment all over his face.

"Don't you love me?" she asked with a smile.

"Seanna, you know I love you..." he said.

"No, Bryce," she interrupted. "I don't mean like your little sister. Do you love me as a man loves a woman?"

Bryce looked at Seanna and a million thoughts and emotions flowed through him. "Seanna...are you telling me that you love me...the way your mom loves Daffyd?" he asked still not believing.

"Bryce I love you the way Trisha loves Leal, the way Lucille loves Bryson...I love you, the way I want you to love me," she said with that love radiating from her face.

"But what changed your mind?" he asked quietly.

"I talked to Alyssa today. She called to tell me her good news about Jeffry. But, I've loved you for a long time. I've just been so stupid. That's why I seduced you in the motel. It was some drunken messed up way to try and win you over. I had tried so hard to just be your sister, and then I thought you and Alyssa were in love."

"That explains a lot," he said. "But what do you mean you seduced me?"

"When I saw you in the bed, I guess that the alcohol took away any inhibitions that I had, I am the one who seduced you. I just wanted to have you, if only for a little while..." she looked down at their hands while her face blushed her embarrassment.

Bryce gently lifted her chin so that he could look into her eyes. "Seanna you always had me. It just took me a long time to figure it out."

She leaned in and he held her close. "You still haven't told me..." she whispered into his shirt.

"What, Seanna, what do you need me to say?" he said willing to do anything.

"You didn't answer my question. Do you love me?" she asked raising her head to see his face.

"Seanna, I love you more than I ever thought I would love anyone," he said, leaning in and kissing her, soft and sweet.

"Can we pretend like that was our first kiss?" she asked softly.

"What do you mean..." he teased, "The one's I have given you while you slept didn't count."

"You mean...you've kissed me in my sleep?" she asked.

"Yes, so those kisses you gave me in the motel weren't our first. If you want to forget those then you go right ahead, but I choose to remember the one I gave you."

"I can't believe all of the hurt that we've caused each other. I am so sorry Bryce."

"It doesn't matter, none of it. All that matters is that now we have it all figured out, we can just start brand new. I hate to break it to you...but you just lost your only brother."

"Well...actually, now that Alyssa and Jeff are back together, we both have a brother and sister. So...we are completely free to allow our relationship to grow into something wonderful," she said smiling up at him.

"I can't wait to get home and tell everyone!" he exclaimed.

"Trisha is going to freak." she laughed.

# Epilogue

"Are you ready?" asked Daffyd through the door.

"Almost," answered Samantha. "Ok, girlie, here we go."

"Wait..." Seanna said stopping her mom from opening the door. "I just want to say how much I love you and appreciate all that you've done for me. You've been a great mother and now that I'm all grown up, I know that we'll just get closer." The two hugged like only a mother and daughter can.

"Now look what you've done. My mascara is running," laughed Samantha.

"People expect you to cry. You're the mother of the bride!" said Seanna as she dabbed at her eyes.

When the wedding march began all eyes turned to the back of the church. Bryce had a déjà vu moment when he saw the two ladies walking toward him. _But this time that beautiful woman you love so much is wearing the wedding gown. Thank you, Lord, for bringing this all to pass._ When his eyes met hers, the scripture that they had chosen to read today, from Song of Solomon, went through his head.

" **Many waters cannot quench love, Nor can the floods drown it."**

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