Part 1
My ten year high school reunion was in a month. I had recently pulled out my old box of memories from high school. As I sifted through the memories, I came across an old photograph Shawn and I. We were sitting on the front porch of his parents house. He sat on one step and I sat below him in between his legs. His arms were wrapped around me. I remembered that day. I remembered that feeling of having him totally wrapped around me. Looking at the photo, I smiled, and realized a few things about that time in my life when I became involved in him.
I was fifteen.
Shawn was sixteen.
Shawn had a motorcycle.
I was in love.
But love wasnt enough to keep us together. I often wonder if I was more in love with that motorcycle than with Shawn. He would let me ride on the back of his motorcycle and we would go flying. Anywhere and everywhere. I loved feeling of going fast, feeling that at anytime we could just lift off from the ground and fly away from the world. From our parents. From school. From all the hard things in the life of a teenager.
I also often wonder if Shawn ever loved me. He let me go so easily. He hardly put up a fight after I walked away from him after graduation. But then again, I didnt fight for him either. We fought over something stupid, like we always did. I guess I just figured that we would make up the next day like we always did. But by the end of the week, I had left for Europe with my family for our annual vacation and I had seen no sign of Shawn. I cant even remember the reason I expected Shawn to come and apologize to me, but I did. He didnt. I dont know where he was when I got back to Salem. He wasnt in Salem and I had to leave to go to college in New York. I havent seen him since.
Our plan had been for me to go to college in New York and he was going to find a job near my school so that we could be together. For that first year, I expected him to show up on campus at anytime looking for me. He never did.
Back then, I was hurting and selfish. I know I should have been the one to apologize. I should have been the one to go after him. But I didnt. And now I wonder if hes all right. Then I wonder if he ever loved me and maybe he had been glad to get rid of me after that last breakup. After all, with me gone, he had his motorcycle all to himself again.
My best friend since high school, Mimi, sometimes tells me that she sees Shawn around Salem when she goes to visit her mother. So I know hes out there somewhere in the world. I hold on to these scraps of information.
I still wonder what could have been. And I wonder if he does too.
I sighed as I traced our faces in the photograph. We were been so young back then. Maybe too young to be in love.
I wondered if I would see him at the reunion. Shawn hadnt liked being with the other kids his age. In fact, he was a bit of a loner and not many of my friends understood why I was with Shawn. But then, does anyone ever understand love? Especially at the age of fifteen?
I knew Shawn wouldnt be there. He only ever went to school functions because I forced him to. And once we were there, all he ever wanted to do was leave. Especially dances. Which was strange, because he was the best dancer I had ever danced with. Ten years later, he still was. But it was hell getting him on the dance floor. But once on the dance floor, he was awesome. It wasnt just his moves, but the moves we made together. It was like we fit together.
My phone ringing brought me out of my trip down memory lane. It was Mimi.
Guess whos coming to the reunion? Mimi screeched into the phone.
Um, Kevin Lambert? I asked, knowing that Mimi had been wondering if her old boyfriend would be showing up. Mimi was in charge keeping track of all the attendees to the reunion.
Well, yes he is, but thats now why Im calling.
Then who?
Shawn Brady. Mimi screeched.
Wow. I said, wondering if Mimi knew that I still thought about him from time to time. I hadnt ever let on to her that I did.
Now well both get to see our high school sweethearts.
Yeah. Thats great. I said. I wonder what Shawns been up to.
Mimi laughed. Thats a good one Belle. Whats Shawn been up to? As if you didnt know.
Um, Mimi. I dont know. I havent seen Shawn in ten years.
Dont you keep up with Basic Black? Mimi asked.
Occasionally. What does my fathers company have to do with Shawn?
Shawns the CEO of Titan. Mimi said.
Titan? Basic Blacks biggest competitor? Hes what? When did that happen?
A few years ago. Right around the time Titan started kicking Basic Blacks butt in profits.
Oh. Well good for him. I said, not knowing what else to say. My ex-boyfriend had been kicking my fathers butt in business and I had no idea. I guess I shouldnt have dropped out of being in the know of my fathers business. I was too busy trying to make it on my own as a doctor.
You know. Mimi said, her voice dropping slightly like she was going to tell me a good piece of gossip. Shawn has a reputation for being tough on his competitors, but its well known that hes the toughest on your father. Some say he has a personal grudge against John Black.
Thats ridiculous. Shawn doesnt have a grudge against my father.
Well then, hes got something against Basic Black. Mimi said. Which, I thought was also ridiculous.
Are you sure Shawns coming to the reunion? I asked. It just didnt sound like his cup of tea, but I was beginning to realize that I knew nothing about my ex anymore.
Im sure. He called me personally to RSVP. He asked about you.
He did? I said, knowing that my voice had gone up slightly, but hoping that Mimi hadnt noticed.
Mimi notices everything. Didnt know you still cared. Mimi teased. He just wanted to know how youre doing. I told him youre a well-respected pediatrician in New York.
Youre over exaggerating.
No Im not. Youre good at what you do. And Shawn said he always knew you would make as a doctor. Isnt that sweet of him to say?
It is. But hed hate it that you called him sweet.
He also asked if you were bringing anyone special, like a significant other. I told him no.
Mimi. I groaned. Hes going to think Im pathetic now.
Hes not bringing anyone either. Never been married. Doesnt currently have a girlfriend.
Oh. I said, elated. Thats more information than I needed.
Yes, but you wanted it. And she was right.
How about Kevin? Is he bringing anyone? I asked.
Yeah. Hes married. But so am I so it doesnt matter.
It doesnt matter for Shawn and me either. I warned. I knew where she was heading with this. I could just see her on the other side of the phone, her eyes bright and full of ideas. Matchmaking ideas.
Sure it does. Mimi said.
No matchmaking Mimi. I mean it.
But Belle, you two were good together. Whyd you break up anyway?
He had a motorcycle. We both had too much pride. We were too young.
Shawn still rides a motorcycle Mimi kept talking and I started to put my box of memories away. But I couldnt quite put the lid on it.
Part 2
A month later I was sitting outside the Java Café in Salem with Mimi. She was talking a mile a minute about the reunion plans. I would nod at all the appropriate places and make a comment here and there, but I wasnt into the conversation. I only had one thing on my mind.
Shawn Brady.
Ever since Mimi told me he was coming to the reunion, thoughts of him were never far from my mind. All I thought about was that I was going to see him the next day. Mimi had told me a million times about the reunion plans. Friday night we were going to the Salem High School football game. Saturday afternoon we were to have a picnic in the afternoon and dinner and drinks in the evening. Sunday morning was a brunch. I had signed up for all events since Mimi had threatened bodily harm if I didnt. I wondered what events Shawn had signed up for.
Mimi had told me that he was going to be at the football game the following night. This surprised me since I used to have to drag him to football games when we were in high school and now he was going to be at one by choice. Then Mimi told me that Zack Brady was on the football team, and everything made sense to me. Shawn would do anything for his younger brother Zack.
So hows Zack? I asked.
What? Mimi asked, confused. I tried to remember what the hell she had been talking about before I interrupted her. Something about dinner on Saturday.
Sorry my thoughts drifted. You were talking about dinner.
Belle, what do you want to know?
I want to know about Zack Brady.
Mimi shook her head. Thats not who Im talking about, and you know it. Theres another Brady boy on your mind, and its not Zack. Its Shawn, isnt it?
I nodded. Id been caught. I just want to knowI want toI dont know. I wanted to know what the hell happened between Shawn and I. I wanted to know why he was still the standard that I held every other guy since him up to. I wanted to know if he still thought about me. If heI just wanted to know a lot of things I hadnt realized I wanted to know.
Say it out loud Belle. You do know. What do you want to know about Shawn?
Why didnt he come after me that last time?
Why didnt you?
Pride. I thought I was right.
What happened? You never did tell me the whole story. You just threw yourself into school.
I dont even remember what we were arguing about. Probably something stupid.
Mimi chuckled. You two always did.
Anyway, I thought I was right and he thought he was right. Neither one of us would listen to reason. I started to walk away from him. The next thing I know, hes on his motorcycle, revving it up, and he tore out of the school parking lot. Him and that damn motorcycle. He was always running away on it. Sometimes I hated him for that.
But other times
I know. I interrupted. Other times I loved it when I was running away with him. Him, me, the motorcycle, open road, speed, and nowhere to go.
Anyway, that was the last time I saw him.
Youve never even seen him around town when you visit your parents?
I shook my head. No. Im only out for short visits with them, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter. I visit with them as much as I can at the penthouse before I leave. My life is out in New York now.
And my life is in Chicago with Rex, but I still see Shawn on occasion when I visit my mother. But I cant be in her presence for more than two hours at a time. She drives me batty.
We both laughed at that. Bonnie Lockhart was quite the character. There was no one in the world like Mimis mother Bonnie. She could talk your ear off, more so than Mimi. And the things that she came up with to say were often hilarious.
Wow, you really havent seen him? I shook my head. Well I havent seen Kevin either. He went off to college and dumped me by email. Idiot. But I still want to know what hes been up to.
Mimi continued to talk on about Kevin and the reunion until her phone rang. Rex had enough of being with Bonnie and wanted to be rescued. Mimi left and I stayed and with my coffee.
I was going to see Shawn for the first time in ten years tomorrow. My mind went back to the first time I had met him. It was my first day as a sophomore. It was after school and my older brother Brady had just abandoned me at school. He would drive me in the morning because our parents would make sure he left for school with me in the car, but in the afternoon, he refused to drive me home. Told me to take the bus or walk. I was furious and started to yell obscenities at him as he drove away without me.
Thats when Shawn drove by on his motorcycle and stopped in front of me. At fifteen, I was impressed with anyone with a motorcycle. But when he got off the bike, took his helmet off and looked at me, I melted. He was the most gorgeous boy I had ever seen or met. He smiled at me and said, Need a ride, pretty girl? His smile and his dark eyes mesmerized me as he stared down at me.
How about a ride to anywhere but here? I asked.
He handed me his helmet to put on. I was headed there myself. I pulled the helmet on over my head and he helped me up on the back of his bike. And off we went with nothing but the wind to hold us back.
Years later I still feel the wind and sun in my face as we breezed through the country roads of Salem and finally ended up at the Brady Pub.
And now as I realize that Im thinking about an ex-boyfriend from ten years ago, I feel pathetic. Its been ten years and I still wonder about him. Seriously, I moved on with my life. I love my life in New York. Im a pediatrician. A good one. I have friends. Ive had a few boyfriends. So why are all these memories coming up now?
I finished my coffee and realized I needed to do something else before I started to fantasize about Shawn. Next, I found myself standing outside the Brady Pub. Not the place I needed to be to get away from the memories of Shawn. The pub was owned by Shawns grandparents and we spent a lot of time in the back booths of the pub.
I hesitated outside the pub before I saw it. A motorcycle parked in the front off to the side. My feet led me to the motorcycle while my head told me to stay away. The bike looked like the one that Shawn used to ride in high school. Maybe it is Shawns. I mean, I was at his grandparents Pub. It could be. This was ridiculous. I was standing in front of an old motorcycle wondering if it is my ex-boyfriends. Just looking at the bike didnt accomplish anything so I decided I needed to go inside to find out myself.
I didnt make it into the pub. A teenage boy with his arm around a pretty redheaded teenaged girl make their way towards the motorcycle. He climbed on and made sure she was settled behind him. He looked around before he pulled his helmet on and our eyes connect. He had the same deep brown eyes that Shawn had at his age. Soul searching eyes that knew me well. The boys eyes dont know me, but he does look at me with recognition.
Belle? he asked.
Zack? I asked, realizing it had to be Shawns younger brother in front of me.
The boy nodded. Wow. Youre still the prettiest girl Ive ever seen. The girl behind him lightly punched him on his shoulder. Besides Charlotte here, Zack quickly amended.
My goodness. I said as I approached Zack. Youre all grown up. The last time I saw you, you were what? 6? 7?
Something like that. Zack said.
And you still remember me?
Zack blushed. Yeah. I thought you were really pretty. Shawn used to tell me that he was the luckiest guy to have you in his life. He was right you know. Any girl who would take me to the park and play ball with me was the best in my book. I missed you when you stopped seeing Shawn.
I smiled at him. You were a good kid, Zack. I missed you too. You remind me of Shawn at this age.
Zack grinned like I had paid him the best compliment. Thats what everyone says. He gave me his old motorcycle when I turned 16.
Belle could tell Zack thought a lot of his older brother. Make good use of that bike. It deserves the best. I reached out and caressed the front of the bike.
I know. Zack said. Shawn told me the same thing. He said that some of the best times of his life were on this bike. I bet they were with you.
It was my time to blush. I dont know about that.
I bet they were. Zack said. Charlotte whispered something into Zacks ear. Im sorry Belle, but Ive got get Charlotte home. See you around?
Maybe. Im here for the weekend.
Zack waved goodbye, revved up his motorcycle and rode away.
I couldnt help but notice how much of Shawn I saw in Zack. Which only made me wonder more about Shawn. Which was exactly what I was trying not to do.
I walked away from the pub, the sound of the motorcycle still resounding in my ears even though it was long gone.
Part 3
You excited for your reunion? My mother asked me as we both sat at the kitchen table eating toast. Toast was about the only thing my mother could cook, and even that she burned. She wanted to make her baby breakfast, so I let her. Burnt toast and orange juice. What a nutritious breakfast.
Itll be great to see everyone again. I said. Id already had this conversation with her, my brother, and my father. They all commented on how old I was getting and how it just seemed like yesterday that I was graduating from high school. I really didnt want to be reminded that I was getting old. Twenty-seven was closer to thirty then I liked to admit.
Anyone in particular that you want to see? Mom sipped her coffee. She didnt make herself a piece of toast. I bet she knew she would burn it and wouldnt subject herself to eating such an awful breakfast. I put my toast aside, refusing to eat the rest of it.
Theres a few people Id like to see.
Is Shawn one of those people? Mom asked. She pushed the toast back at me. Honey eat up. I dont think you eat enough.
Mom, Im fine. Im not hungry. I said and pushed the toast away again.
SoShawnwill he be at the reunion?
Mimi says he will be. And yes, I would like to see him.
Mom made a motion toward upstairs where Dad was still getting ready for work. Dont let your father know. Shawn Brady isnt on his list of good people right now.
Yeah. I heard about that. I said. Why didnt anyone let me know that Shawn was the CEO of Titan?
I thought you already knew. Mom said. It was all over the news.
Oh. I didnt keep up with current events. I had more important things to do. Like saving the lives of sick children. I must have missed that.
Missed what? Dad asked as he entered the kitchen.
Belle was just telling me about the people she misses from high school. Mom said and handed Dad a piece of burnt toast.
Thanks honey, but I have a breakfast meeting today. Dad slipped the piece of toast onto my nibbled toast. Izzy can have this one. Just what I needed. More burnt toast.
Dad leaned down to kiss my cheek. Good morning Izzy. Hope you have a fun time at your reunion.
I will. I told Dad. He took a look at the paper, pulled out the business section and started cursing.
Dad, whats wrong? I asked as I slipped the toast into the trash while Mom wasnt looking. Unfortunately she saw me. I whispered Sorry to her as she took my plate away.
Well order in breakfast next time. Mom said. I think the toaster is broken.
Damn that Shawn Brady. Dad said. Hes at it again. Eating away at my profits while his skyrocket. That no good thief and liar.
Daddy! I scolded him.
Im sorry Izzy. I know you dated him once. But he broke your heart. Hes a no good nothing and you should have sense to stay away from him if you see him around town this weekend.
John, I hardly think you should be telling Belle who to see while shes in Salem. Mom said. She was examining the toaster with a knife, trying to fix it I imagine. I got up and took the knife away from her before she stuck it down the toaster and electrocuted herself. After all, Shawn will be at her reunion, Mom continued.
Mom, sit. Well just get rid of the toaster. You never use it anyway.
I guess youre right. Mom said and sat down. I unplugged it from the wall so that it couldnt cause any more damage.
Dad looked at me. Shawns going to your reunion? I always thought the kid was a loner and a loser. Why would he want to be with a bunch of people he hardly knows? If hes there to see you, you should just run the other direction before he breaks your heart again.
I dont know whats gotten into you, but you were never hateful towards Shawn. Maybe hes going to the reunion to show everyone hes not a loser. He made something out of himself.
So have you. Dad reminded me. And hes trying to ruin your fathers company. Dont you think you should show me some support? Hes out to get me.
I hardly think hes out to get you personally. He just wants to make a name for himself.
How would you know what hes up to? Dad asked. Of course hes out to get me personally. He Dad stopped suddenly then.
Shawn.what Dad?
He never liked me. He thought I had too much control over you. That was exactly what Shawn had thought of my father, but I didnt realize that Dad knew this.
Hes right. I said. You did. And Shawn and his motorcycle were my escape from you. There. Id finally admitted to my father that I thought he was too controlling. And he said nothing. The silence scared me.
Daddy, I still love you. But you were strict when I was growing up because you were afraid I was going to turn out like Sami.
Shes right John. Mom said. You were hard on Belle.
Anything I did, I did because I loved you. Dad said. I hope you understand that.
I do, Dad. I said and hugged him.
Later that evening, I was bundled up in my winter jacket while I sat in the bleachers at Salem High watching the football game. It was October, and the air was chilly. If I closed my eyes for a second I could feel Shawn wrapped around me trying to keep me warm like he had all those years ago.
But Shawn wasnt behind me today. Shawn wasnt even at the football game.
At least he wasnt in the special cheering section of the bleachers reserved for our class reunion. I had talked with several people from my high school days. And it was nice. But the truth of the matter was, the only person I wanted to see was Shawn.
Im sorry Belle. Mimi said to me through chattering teeth. Rex, Mimis husband had his arms draped around her, trying to keep her warm. When I talked to Shawn about the reunion, he told me he came to all football games to watch Zack play so he should be here.
I should have known hed want to avoid a crowd. I said, trying not to hide my disappointment.
I really am sorry. Mimi said.
I shook my head. Its not your fault. Shawn makes up his own mind on whether or not he comes. Not you.
I know, but I told you
Forget it Mimi. Hey wheres Kevin?
He had a later flight. Well see him tomorrow at the picnic.
Rex rolled his eyes. Thatll be loads of fun meeting the guy that used to play tonsil hockey with my wife in the hall closet.
Hey. Mimi playfully hit him. I didnt marry him, now did I? Anyway, you and me play a lot more than tonsil hockey together.
Hey way too much information! I cried.
Besides, Kevin and I never used the hall closet. That was always occupied by Shawn and Belle.
Thats enough, Mimi. I blushed, but not because I was extremely embarrassed, but because I was once again going down memory lane remembering trysts in the school hall closet. Shawn, me, lips, hands, close bodies. We had fire between us.
Salem High won the football game that night. Zack played for about ten minutes in the last part of the game. He was a sophomore on the varsity team, so he didnt get much playtime. I cheered wildly for him the whole time he was on the field. As I did, I caught sight of the redhead, Charlotte, in the stands right behind the team. I saw Bo and Hope there as well. And for a second I thought I saw Shawn next to them, but when I glanced back I was mistaken, because no one was there.
Ever since I thought I had glanced Shawn in the stands, I thought I felt someones eyes on me. Like I was being watched. But wherever I looked, no one was noticeably staring at me. But I still had the feeling. I even had the feeling after the game while I milled around the school parking lot and caught up with my old classmates. But I tried to ignore it.
My classmates werent the only ones congregated in the parking lot. Quite few of the high school kids had done so as well, but they were off in their own group. One by one, my classmates left the parking lot with promises to see each other the next day at the picnic. The high school kids also began to leave. I spotted Zack among the crowd of kids. He waved at me and zoomed off on his motorcycle with Charlotte holding him tightly as she held on to him. Just like Shawn and I used to do. For a moment I wished it was Shawn and I.
Belle, were leaving. Why dont we walk you to your car? Mimi said. I looked around and realized that Rex and Mimi were the only ones left with me.
Sure. I said as we headed towards our cars.
I still felt like someone was watching me. And the feeling only got stronger. Thats when I heard it. I turned around and saw it.
A motorcycle heading towards our direction. My heart raced.
The motorcycle stopped in front of me. The rider pulled off his helmet, but I already knew who it was before the helmet came off. There was only one person it could be.
Shawn Douglas Brady.
That grin. Those eyes. I melted.
Need a ride, pretty girl?
There were things I should have said. There were things I could have said. Later, I remembered those things. But in that moment, I couldnt say anything. I bit my bottom lip and nodded yes and Mimi pushed me forward, whispering, Take a chance. She and Rex quickly disappeared after she said that.
Where to? Shawn asked.
Anywhere. I want to fly.
So do I.
He had an extra helmet that he put on me and fastened the straps. I held onto his waist as I straddled the back of the bike.
Ready?
Go! I shouted.
And off we went. I held on tighter as we sped up. Open road. Speed. Stars. Moon. Shawn Douglas Brady. I felt fifteen again. I hoped this night never ended.
Part 4
I loved the feeling of world whirling by as we continued to drive. We had ridden several country roads before we ended up on the outskirts of Salem. Shawn stopped the bike at a bar called the Waterin Hole.
Where are we? I asked.
This is a place I like to go to on the weekends. Nice spot. I know the owner. I told him Id stop by tonight. Do you mind? He asked.
I was still awestruck by being in Shawns presence. He could have asked me to do almost anything and I probably wouldnt have minded. Thats fine.
You know this wasnt legal for us to do ten years ago. Shawn said as we entered the bar.
Didnt stop us from drinking, though, did it? I said remembering a couple of nights on the Bradys back porch with a couple of contraband beers between us. Im pretty sure that Shawn got in trouble for taking his fathers beers, but he never let on to me.
Shawn smiled at me. Sure as hell didnt. Ill buy you a drink and we can relive some memories.
Youre on.
Hey! Shawn! The bartender called Shawn over.
Ricky! Shawn shook hands with the man he called Ricky. Its a good night. How bout you? Ricky was a big guy with long black hair pulled back in a ponytail. He had on black clothing. He didnt look like someone Id want to cross paths with in a dark alley.
Been quiet, but steady. Ricky said. Most of the regulars have been in tonight. Your usual? What about your lady friend?
Usuals great. Shawn said. Ricky, this is Belle Black. Belle, this is Ricky. He owns the place.
Good to meet you Belle, Ricky said as he handed Shawn a bottle of beer. What would you like to drink?
Whatever Shawns having is fine.
Coming right up. Ricky said and handed me a bottle of beer.
Ricky walked off to help another customer at the other end of the bar. There werent too many people in the bar. Just the other customer at the bar a couple in the far corner talking at a table and a couple slow dancing on the dance floor.
How do you know Ricky? I asked.
Hes helped me out of a couple of jams.
Here? I asked.
Yes. Among other places. Shawn said, but didnt elaborate. I knew Shawn had a temper and I imagined it could get him into trouble from time to time.
So, youre the CEO of Titan? Thats great. I said.
Youre a doctor. Shawn said. You accomplished exactly what you wanted to do.
I did. I said. I love being able to help kids.
It suits you. Shawn said. He sipped his beer. It doesnt bother you? That I compete against your father?
I shook my head. Should it?
No. Shawn said. I just thought it might.
It doesnt. Dad needs some competition from time to time and I understand that youre pretty good at providing it. Im proud of you for making it to CEO of Titan. Thats a powerful company.
Victor Kiriakis is my grandfather. Shawn said. Victor Kiriakis was the founding father of Titan.
Yes, but I bet he made you work hard to get where you are. He wouldnt have put just anyone in charge of the corporation. You dont see Philip or Brady in charge of Titan.
Thats true. I did work hard. I had the most to prove to him. I wasnt born with money like Phil and Brade.
Victor never cared about that. He loves you whether or not you have money or not. You never cared about money either.
I didnt care because I didnt have any. I do now. I like money.
I wasnt sure I liked where this conversation was going or how my 18 year old rebel ex had turned into a money loving CEO. You know what I like more? I said flirtatiously.
What? Shawn arched his eyebrow. I loved it when he did that.
Dancing.
Belle. Shawn whined. I dont want to. Now this was a Shawn I knew. I hate to dance Shawn. This Shawn I could handle.
Oh yes you do. I said. I grabbed his beer out his hand and placed on the counter an jumped down from my barstool. I grabbed a hold of his hands and tried to drag him to the dance floor. He stayed put.
Shawn was definitely putting up a fight. But his eyes told me a different story. He wanted to watch my every movement. He wanted to be with me. He was going to be convinced to dance with me.
Sweetheart, I wouldnt bother trying. Ricky told me. Shawnie here doesnt dance.
Doesnt dance, huh? I said to Ricky. But my eyes never left Shawns.
Hes right, Belle. I dont dance. Shawn challenged me. He leaned back against the bar and grabbed his beer again.
Bullshit. I said.
What? Shawn asked, looking innocent.
Shawnies never taken a spin on that dance floor in all the years Ive known him.
Really? I said. Not once?
No, Mam, Ricky said. Shawnie here cant dance, so I suggest you dont even try to get him out there.
Shawn cant dance, huh?
Ricky shook his head.
Then why do I have three first place dance competition trophies that say he can?
Must be some other Shawn, sweetheart. Ricky said, but he was grinning. I had him in on this too.
Come on Shawn. I said. Lets show Ricky your stuff.
Go on Shawn, Ricky said. Show off those two left feet.
Shawn was shaking his head. But he was rising from his bar stool. I had him. One dance, Belle. One dance. Only for you.
I grinned and walked to the jukebox to pick a song. Once in high school, we danced to Rhythm Divine and one the dance competition. It was just my luck that the song was there. I dropped my coins in and pushed the button.
The music started and Shawn grinned. He was remembering just as much as I was. He held out his hand and I took it. Our bodies fitted. We moved together. He matched me step for step. He even twirled me around a few times. By the time the dance was over, I wanted another one.
Our dance had gained some attention from the four other people in the bar, including Ricky. We were applauded as we swayed around the dance floor. I think Ricky said something to us, but I didnt hear him. Shawn pulled me closer and I laid my head against his chest. We continued to move.
One more? Shawn asked. A slow one?
I nodded. He didnt have to ask me twice. He left me on the dance floor long enough to put some more coins in the jukebox and pick a song.
Youll like this one. Shawn told me when he wrapped his arms around my waist.
The music began. It was Ill Be. Our song from high school. Perfect. I said as we began to sway around the dance floor. We matched step for step, movement to movement. I laid my head back against his chest and heard his heart beat. Time felt like it hadnt passed. I was fifteen again and I wanted to stay in this moment.
Do you want me to take you home? Shawn said when the music stopped.
Not yet. We hadnt moved from our position on the dance floor.
Good. I want to show you something.
A few minutes later we were back on the motorcycle driving fast and free with the night sky above us.
Part 5 - NC17
The first thought that came to my mind when Shawn stopped was that he shouldnt have brought me here. We were on the docks near the boats. Near one boat in particular. The Fancy Face. Growing up, Shawns parents would allow us to use their boat. The Fancy Face was a special place for us.
Our first time as lovers was on that boat. We had been each others first. Naively, I had thought that we would also be each others only and last lover. While I knew that wasnt true anymore, what I did know was that Shawn had been my best lover. Hed set the standard that no guy since him had achieved. Or maybe I hadnt wanted them to. Pathetically, I wondered where I ranked with him among his lovers. I probably didnt want to know. I had been young and inexperienced.
The Fancy Face? I asked as we started towards the boats.
Shawn shook his head. No. Dad sold the Fancy Face awhile back. Money was tight and wellthe Fancy Face had to go.
Oh, I said, disappointed. Im sorry. I know how much you loved that boat.
Shawn grinned at me. You loved it too.
Yes, I did. But, thats not what I meant. You spent a lot of your childhood on that boat. Im just sorry that a piece of your childhood is gone.
Is that all youre sorry for? Shawn teased. Because what you and I did on the Fancy Face had nothing to do with being a child. I know he was teasing me, but I also sensed he was looking for a real answer.
Im sorry the Fancy Face is gone for a lot of reasons. Mostly because it was where we spent our first time and many other times. Those were special times for me.
Me too. There was a distant silence between us before Shawn stopped and said, Were here.
Its a boat, I said, looking at a sailboat that was much larger than the Fancy Face had been.
Its my boat. Shawn said. Look at her name. I tried, but it was too dark. Shawn had a flashlight on his key ring so he shined it at the boat for me.
Bellas Dream
You named your boat after me? I was flattered.
Shawn shook his head. She came with the name.
But you didnt change it.
No. It was perfect the way it was. It reminded me of you.
Shawn. I said as he helped me onto the boat. You really shouldnt have bought a boat that reminded you of me. But Im touched. Very touched.
Belle, youre the only one whos ever really understood my love of boats and the open water. You were an important part of my life for a while. I felt it was fitting that my boat be named after you. Maybe it doesnt make sense
You dont have to defend the name of your boat. I just meant that I was a part of your life for three years a long time ago. Im sure youve had other girlfriends for longer than that and well, Im sure they dont appreciate your boat being named after an ex girlfriend.
I guess they might if they had been on my boat. But my boat is my place to hide from the world and I havent brought any girlfriends out here.
We sat down by the captains wheel. I shivered in the cold air of the night. Shawn wrapped his arms around me and snuggled me close to him. Better? Shawn asked. I nodded. Well go inside in a few minutes. I just thought you might like looking at the stars first.
I did. But I was more intrigued by what he had said before. You really havent brought any girls out here? I asked.
Shawn shook his head. Youre the first. So far only familys been on my boat. I let Mom and Dad use it whenever they want. Chelseas been out here with her husband and kids. Zack comes out with Charlotte, but I dont let the two of them stay alone. You never know, those teens might decide to have sex on my boat.
I snuggled closer to Shawn. The closer I was, the warmer I felt. Really? I teased. Teens have sex on a sailboat? I hadnt thought of that one.
Im sure you hadnt pretty girl. Shawn leaned forward as he teased me.
The more he looked at me. The more I felt he wanted to kiss me. So I leaned forward too. The moon shone silver light on us. I could hear the water gently lapping against the boat. A million stars twinkled above us. We leaned closer. Our lips met, tentatively at first. Then the kiss deepened with passion and intensity. I missed his kisses. I missed kissing him.
Im sorry. I shouldnt have kissed you. I just Shawn tried to pull away from me.
I grabbed a hold of him. His body and kisses were keeping me warm and I wasnt about to let him go. I wanted you to. His eyes met mine and he smiled. He pulled me back into his embrace and I kissed him, again with increasing intensity.
Belle, youre shivering. You must be freezing. Shawn said once we broke apart. I wasnt shivering because of the cold. I was shivering because Shawns lips on mine awakened sensations I hadnt felt in awhile. I didnt argue with Shawn when he insisted he take me inside to keep me warm.
I had a few ideas on how to keep me warm. A few more kisses and maybe something more.
Shawn followed me down into the hatch into to the cabin. We were right in the galley. Want some coffee? Shawn said as he started fiddling with the coffeemaker.
I took my winter jacket off and threw it on the small kitchen table. It was cold down in the cabin, but not as cold as it had been outside. No coffee. Maybe later, I said.
Shawn stopped fiddling with the coffeemaker. Want a tour?
Maybe later.
What do you want to do?
I raised my eyebrows. Do you really have to ask? I helped him take off his leather jacket. I want to finish what we started. I knew he did too. His lips crashed down onto mine.
I fiddled with the hem of his shirt and he helped me take it off of him. He groaned as we broke our kiss. Baby, are you sure about this? he asked as he backed me into the bedroom.
He called me Baby! Like he used to do. I was meltingAnd oh his Adonis like body. I couldnt stop touching him. Hed been working out and I liked it.
Im sure. This time, it was my sweatshirt to hit the ground. I was grateful that I had decided to put on my matching lacey blue bra and panties instead of some of the other undergarment choices I had.
I was in the process of unbuttoning of his jeans and he was in the process of unhooking my bra. I just dont want you to think that I only brought you out here for sex.
Shawn? I closed my eyes as his hands were on my breasts. I moaned in appreciation.
Yes Baby? He was kissing my shoulders, making his way to my breasts.
Stop talking. Just keep doing what youre doing. His mouth met my breasts at the same time he unbuttoned and unzipped my jeans. Like that Shawn. Like that.
So beautiful. Belle, youre so beautiful. Shawn backed me against the bed and took my pants, shoes, and socks off with so much care that I wanted him to just rip them off of me.
His hand and lips were everywhere as he made his way up my body. My hands were in his hair as I pulled him up, willing him to kiss me again. He wasted no time in kissing me while he covered me with his body. Bare skin against bare skin. It was heaven.
I knew that if I stopped to think about what was happening, I would end it. I barely knew this man anymore. But I knew his soul. I knew the way he made me feel. And I wanted to live this one night in the past. For tonight, ten years hadnt gone by. We were Shawn and Belle and we were in love. Id deal with the present in the morning.
Within in minutes the rest of our clothes were off. I wrapped my legs around his waist and felt that he was ready for me. I was more than ready for him. I wanted him now. I reached down and touched him.
OhhhBaby feel so good. Too fast, Shawn said into my shoulder. He grabbed my arms and held them above my head.
His brown eyes stared down at my blue ones. They stared right through me as if they were reading my thoughts. I saw desire, lust, and something else in his eyes. Beyond the fire there was a longing, more than the longing of being in the heated moment of sex, and I was afraid to look further to find the truth.
Instead, I wiggled beneath him. He groaned. I want you inside of me now, I said.
Shawn positioned himself and entered me, both of us groaning in mutual satisfaction as he filled me more completely than anyone ever had. Its been too long, he muttered. Way too long. But then all I could think about was Shawn inside of me and how much pleasure he gave me. In and out. In and out. Our hands reflexively clasped above my head. Our eyes locked onto one anothers. If this was a dream, I never wanted to wake up.
Harderfastertogether we moved in a steadily increasing pace. I clung to his shoulders while he held onto my hips and thrust hard into me one last time, causing us both to completely and gloriously come apart.
Afterward, I rested my head on Shawns chest and he held me close as our breathing became normal again. Belle, baby, that was incredible. Shawn kissed the top of my head and stroked my hair.
I know. It was more than incredible. It was the best that I had ever had. Our bodies had come together, but so had our souls.
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