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Violence Disclaimer: This is essentially a non-violent story. There is enough of that in the real world already.
Love/Sex Warning/Disclaimer: This story depicts a love/sexual relationship between two consenting adult women. If you are under 18 years of age, or if this type of story is illegal where you live, please do not read it. If depictions of this nature disturb you, you may want to read something other than this story.
Age Disclaimer: The characters in this story are around 40 years of age. If the thought of a few wrinkles, gray hairs, and <gasp> extra pounds on the dynamic duo bothers you, you’d better skip it. However, if you are in the aforementioned age group, and have wondered why the main characters in fan fic stories are always two super buff 20/30 year olds with nary a wrinkle or spare pound, this story is for you!
Music Disclaimer: There are a lot of references to music in this story, mostly from the 60’s and a little current top 40. If you know who the Rascals are… you’ll have no problem (and you are definitely cool). If you don’t, you’ll just have to bear with me<g>. All lyrics are used without permission. No copyright infringement is intended.
Ring Ding Disclaimer: Now we get to the important stuff. Depending on where you live, Ring Dings may also be called Ding Dongs . Who comes up with these names anyway? In any event, they are chocolaty delicious but deadly to the waistline.
Thanks: Thanks to my beta readers - Gin, Beth and Lisa for your help and support. Also, thanks to Deb and Lisa for going on a scouting trip to Sarasota with me and helping with the “around town” stuff in both locales.
Author’s Note: This is my first attempt at fan fiction. I have never
written any kind of story before. Therefore, I would appreciate comments
and constructive criticism so that I can try to improve as I go along.
jenah@tampabay.rr.com
Our Reunion
by Jenah
Chapter 1
Samantha turned into the parking lot of the Hyatt Regency, looking for a space as close as possible to the front door. Fortunately, someone was just leaving. Must be my lucky night, she thought as she pulled her Toyota Rav 4 into the prime spot. She went around to the back of the truck, opened the tailgate, and removed two cases. Thankful that all the big equipment had been set up earlier in the day, she lugged the guitar and saxophone cases into the lobby of the hotel. Making her way down the hallway to the ballroom, Sam contemplated the evening ahead. It should be an interesting night…getting to see Lisa’s old classmates after all these years…can’t wait to see how they look. The ballroom was a beehive of activity. Hotel personnel were busy setting up the buffet table and making final preparations for the party. Sam looked over to the stage area and saw her sister standing at the keyboard.
“Hi, Lisa! Everything about ready?”
“Yes, we're all set,” the older woman responded, as she played several phrases of music and the sound filled the room.
“Hey, I’m going to go get my nametag,” Lisa said as she jumped off the front of the stage.
“Wait for me to set up and I’ll go with you, ok?” Sam quickly tuned her guitar and checked the amplifier’s volume level. Then she put together her saxophone and ran through a few scales. Setting both instruments into their stands, she announced, “Okay, I’m ready.”
As they walked to the lobby, Sam studied her sister’s profile. “So, how do you feel about playing at your 25th high school reunion?”
“Old!” She grinned affectionately at her sister.
“Aw, c’mon, you’re not THAT old.” Sam poked her with her elbow.
“Ha! Easy for you to say.” Lisa returned the elbow jab. “I’ll always be older than you!”
Sam chuckled at the familiar complaint. “Wouldn’t you rather just be a guest? I mean…it’s your reunion.”
Waving off her sister’s concern, Lisa explained, “Nah, I doubt I would have come if it weren’t for the fact that the band is playing. You’re the one that’s attended all your reunions. You should feel right at home tonight.”
“But this time I get to see YOUR old classmates,” Sam teased. “That’s even better! Hey, did you finally talk Mike into coming?”
“Yeah, he’s going to stop by for an hour or so. He’ll know some of the people who will be here. Also, I promised to point out a few people I’ve told him stories about from my old high school days.”
“Oh,” Sam laughed, “THAT should be interesting!”
The attendant at the registration table was just finishing arranging the hundred or so nametags as they approached. He looked up at his former classmate and beamed, “Lisa, how are you? I was so glad to hear we got your band tonight…”
As Lisa started talking with her old high school friend, Sam scanned the name cards. Ah ha, there it is, she thought as she picked up the one with her sister’s name on it. Then the nametag just above Lisa’s caught her eye. Christina Mellekas? She’s going to be here?
“Can I please have my nametag?” Lisa’s tone of voice indicated that this was not the first time she had asked.
“Oh, sure…here.” As they walked back toward the ballroom, Sam whispered her discovery to her sister. “Tina Mellekas is going to be here.”
“Yeah?” Lisa whispered back. “Is that a secret?”
“Well, no.”
“Why are you whispering then?”
“Will you introduce me to her?”
“Me? I hardly know her myself!”
“She was on the track team with you, wasn’t she?” Sam said, knowing the answer to that perfectly well. Tina had been the star of the track team.
“We were more like acquaintances.” Narrowing her eyes, Lisa tilted her head and looked at her sister suspiciously. “ Why this sudden interest in meeting her? No one has seen her in years.”
Sam shrugged. “I don’t know…but if she does show up, will you introduce me? “
“Yeah, alright. I’ll introduce you.” Lisa said, holding up her hand with her pinky finger crooked. “If you promise not to embarrass me in front of my friends.”
Locking her own pinky around her sister’s, Sam nodded. “I swear.” It was a solemn oath. The sisters had never gone back on a pinky swear in their lives.
The rest of the band was warming up when they got back to the ballroom. The sisters joined Robbie, Kyle, and Bryan for a sound check before they broke to finalize the song lists for the sets. Happy with the selections, Lisa checked her watch and rubbed her hands together. “Okay. Guys, we have half an hour before the first set, so take a little break and I’ll see you then.” Turning to Sam, she said, “I’m going to stay here and say hi to the early arrivals. You want to hang out with me?”
“Nah.” She playfully punched her big sister’s arm. “I’ll let you old fogies talk. I’m going to get some fresh air.”
Sam crossed the lobby, heading toward the rear of the hotel. There was a large pool deck and beyond that a garden area with benches. Sam sat down and took in a deep breath of the fragrant air. Whatever kind of flowers those are, they sure smell good.
Hmmm…Christina Mellekas…Sam ran the name through her mind. Tucking one leg beneath her, she thought back to track practice so many years ago.
Because Sam got a ride home from school with Lisa every day, she had to wait for her to finish track practice. Sam would go to the top row of the bleachers and sit in the farthest corner. She would open her books, ostensibly to study, however, very little studying actually got done. Oh, she had had good intentions, and she usually got about 15 minutes of studying in before the boys and girls started coming out of the locker rooms. Then, as her books lay open on her lap, her gaze invariably went to the track. From her vantage point, Sam had a perfect view of the whole field.
Tina was, by far, the best athlete on the team. She was always so focused, repeating the events as many times as it took to perfect her form. And some form it was. Samantha smiled at the memory. Long and lean, jet black hair pulled back into a ponytail and her face serious in concentration, Tina practiced diligently.
The only person Sam had ever seen crack Tina’s stoic mask was her brother Steven. He was a sophomore and it was obvious that he idolized his big sister. Steven was on the boys’ track team and he was trying hard to be as good at it as Tina. He was as funny and outgoing as she was reticent. Every now and then at practice he would say something to her that caused her to break into a huge smile. The smile completely transformed Tina’s face. Watching from up in the bleachers, Sam would often wonder what the boy had said to his sister to cause that amazing transformation.
Sam had always been fascinated with what made people tick. And Tina Mellekas was one fascinating person. Though, as much as she had watched the track star practice, she had never found out much about her.
Maybe tonight I’ll get a second chance.
A glance at her watch elicited a soft curse from her as she jumped up from the bench. She walked quickly back to the ballroom and, unbeknownst to her, a night that would change her life forever.
Chapter 2
Tina paced around the hotel room for what seemed like the hundredth
time.
Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea.
I shouldn’t be here.
What ever possessed me to think I should come to my high school
reunion?
I must have been out of my mind.
No… it was more like a weak moment when I saw that envelope with
the school mascot stamped in the return address space. I had a sudden longing
for my past, my home, and my family.
So, I signed the registration form and mailed it in before I could
change my mind.
And here I am.
Well, if I pace around the room arguing with myself much longer,
the reunion will be over and I won’t have to worry about it.
She let out a deep sigh… just do it, T.
Tina left her room and walked slowly to the elevator. She stared at the aluminum door, debating whether to press the button or bolt back to her room while she still had the chance. Suddenly, the door opened and a young couple exited. Tina stood there, looking at the empty elevator. Well, there’s a sign if there ever was one. I guess I’m destined to go to this reunion. Taking a deep breath, she stepped into the elevator.
Arriving at the lobby, Tina heard music coming from her left, so she headed in that direction. At the doorway of the ballroom she stopped and leaned against the doorframe. The familiar feeling of being on the outside looking in settled over her as she studied the room impassively. The party was in full swing. A large portion of the attendees were dancing to music being played by a band on a stage set up in the front of the room. What song is that? Something that was a hit on the radio when I was in school…can’t think of the name of it. She recognized some familiar faces and chuckled to herself as she noticed that people were grouped into the same old cliques they had been part of in high school. Tina forced herself to move into the room. She saw a relatively unoccupied space near the back …if I could just get over there and hang around for a half hour or so, I’ll consider this a success.
“Class of ’74 RULES!” The shout from the crowd made Samantha
smile as she wiped the sweat from her face. They were well into the second
set
now. The band was tight and sounding good. The first set tonight had
been soft background music while the guests arrived, ate, and talked. Samantha
had a lot of saxophone work in that set, playing some jazz tunes and light
rock. This set was dance music, mostly from the 70’s and early 80’s. But
soon, they would be moving into Sam’s favorite songs…60’s classics. Replacing
her damp towel next to her sax stand Sam reflected on the evening.
She had seen people she remembered from Lisa’s class and she was amazed
at how different they looked. Her favorite was the football player, Timmy
Grant. Gosh, it seemed like every girl in school had had a crush on him
in high school. And here he was tonight, with a pudgy belly and practically
bald! Sam had to laugh. You just never know how people are going to turn
out.
Tina watched the proceedings from the back of the room. Several people noticed her and came up and spoke briefly. Tina approached no one. She was uncomfortable in this situation with so many people, and particularly, people who knew about her past. The leader of the band…wasn’t that Lisa from the track team? Yeah…and there…the blonde guitar player. That’s her sister…hmmm…she cut her hair…was speaking to the crowd.
“All right folks”, Lisa said into the microphone, “We’re going to do one more song and then take a little break. However, we’ll be back with some more dance music, so don’t go away!” A cheer erupted from the crowd and the band launched into the final song of the set.
Tina couldn’t believe it. Wild Thing? Memories of her brother Steven jumping around his room playing air guitar to this very song flickered across her mind. I miss you so much Steven. So many things remind me of you. Nothing’s been the same…nothing.
Knowing this was one of Sam’s favorite songs, Lisa smiled at her sister.
Sam smiled back and looked out at the room full of partying people. Her
gaze roamed beyond the throng of dancers to the groups of people chatting
along the sides of the room. Then, scanning across the back…
Oh my goodness…Sam missed the chord change and glanced sheepishly
at her sister. Geez, only three chords in this song…Lisa must
be wondering how I could mess that up! The song ended and Sam
immediately grabbed Lisa by the arm.
“Lisa!”
“What is it Sam? You forgetting how to play the guitar tonight?” she teased.
“No, she’s here”
“Who’s here?”
Sam pulled Lisa closer and whispered in her ear, “Tina Mellekas.”
“What is it about that woman that makes you whisper?”
“Look, you promised me you would introduce me…remember?”
“Yes” Lisa sighed. “Listen, let me get Michael so I can introduce him too. Then we are going to get our picture taken. They have a photographer here. Just like at a prom. Isn’t that great?”
“Yeah, great,” Sam replied absently, “Let’s go.”
Sam followed Lisa as she approached Michael and the group he was talking with. "Lisa! The band sounds GREAT!" one of the men shouted as several others chimed in with similar comments. "Thanks, everybody. Does anyone mind if I borrow my husband for a few minutes?" Lisa hooked her arm around Michael's. "Hey, handsome, do you think I could get my picture taken with you? I want proof that you actually attended this shindig."
Michael laughed and responded, "Sure, you can!"
"Are the kids over at Marie's?" Lisa asked.
"Yeah, I'm going to pick them up on the way home. As a matter of fact, I need to get going soon."
Samantha cleared her throat to gain her sister's attention. Lisa rolled her eyes and said, "Ok, but first, let's go say hi to Tina. She was on the track team with me." As the group headed toward the back of the room, Lisa continued, "She hasn't been around in years."
"Where has she been?" asked Mike.
"Nobody really knows." Lisa turned her head and smirked at Sam, "Maybe tonight Samantha will find out for us"
Samantha was just about to give her sister a sharp retort when she realized they were almost to where Tina was standing. A sudden fluttering in her stomach surprised her. Why in the heck are you so nervous? She was the big track star in high school but now you are both grown women. Geez, you ought to be over your hero worship by now.
"Hi Tina," said Lisa "I don't know if you remember me..."
“Of course I do.” Tina nodded, “From the track team...”
Sam barely heard the conversation, as she focused her full attention on Tina Mellekas. This was the closest Sam had ever been to her and she found herself totally in awe. Tina was wearing a knee length, sleeveless black dress that revealed a healthy tan and physically fit body. Long, dark hair fell naturally over her shoulders, and even though the light was dim, Sam could see a bit of gray just over her left temple. She's going to have a shock of gray hair there soon. The group was still talking, so Sam took the opportunity to study Tina’s profile. It was exactly as she remembered it, except this was MUCH better…being up this close. There are probably a thousand words I could use to describe this woman but it will only take three to sum it up quite nicely...drop-dead-gorgeous. That thought brought her back to reality just in time to hear Lisa’s voice.
“And this is my little sister, Samantha.” Lisa grabbed Sam and pulled her a little closer.
Tina turned her attention to Sam and held out her hand. “Nice to meet you.”
Samantha looked up....my goodness she's tall…into the bluest eyes she'd ever seen. She managed to reach forward, grasp the offered hand and say, "N...Nice to meet you, too."
"Well," Lisa said, "Mike and I need to go get our picture taken. We're glad you came tonight Tina... and Sam? We'll see you in a few minutes for the last set...ok?"
"Sure, Lisa." She's leaving me ALONE with her? What will I do now?
Sam watched Lisa and Michael walk off.
Silence reigned for several minutes, during which Sam pretended to be watching the activities in the room. In actuality, she was racking her brains to think of something...anything…to say. Sam noticed that Tina was holding a hotel key card in her left hand Hmmm…no purse for this one…and she is staying here at the hotel? Maybe I can ask her that…
Tina was ready to leave. She had managed her thirty minutes and that was enough for her. Why is this girl still here? I guess I’d better say something…"The band is very good." Tina's voice was low in the noisy room but the timber of it made it easy to discern.
"Thanks! We've been together a long time. We have a strong following locally and a steady amount of work. We do weddings and clubs and really just about anything. My sister started the band years ago and it's kind of evolved..."
Good Lord, she sure can talk! Tina found herself grinning as she looked down at Sam.
Sam's voice trailed off as she realized she was babbling. She glanced
up to see if Tina was even listening and found herself looking into those
fabulous blue eyes again. The bemused look on Tina’s face gave way to a
grin and Sam’s breath caught. Oh! She has little wrinkles around her
eyes when she grins. And those eyes… Time seemed to stand still.
Sam looked into those eyes and saw pain, sorrow, guilt, and…a good heart.
How she saw all that…felt all that… she didn’t know.
It was just very clear to her. She’s the one.
Tina felt like the woman was looking right inside her. Instinctively, she broke off the eye contact. She looked over Sam’s head and saw that the band was getting ready to play.
“I think you are needed." Tina said, pointing toward the stage.
"What?" Sam pulled herself from her reverie when she heard Tina's voice.
"The band." She nodded toward the stage.
"Oh…yes. I have to go. Are you going to stay for a while?"
"No, I'll be leaving soon. I'm not really into this kind of thing. I'm not even sure why I came."
Sam's mind was racing trying to think of something to say to give her another opportunity to see this woman. The sound of the keyboard stopped Sam's train of thought immediately. She knew her sister was signaling her to get back on stage. "Um, well, I'm glad you came and that I got a chance to meet you." Sam said.
"Thanks, it was nice meeting you, too."
"I've got to go." Sam gave a little half wave and a smile before turning and jogging up to the stage.
Tina watched the young woman leave. That one would be trouble…good thing I’m out of here on Monday. She watched for a few more minutes as the band started “I Feel Good”, with Sam playing the saxophone part. The song got everyone in the place dancing, singing, or both. Tina even found herself tapping her foot to the music. The song ended and Tina worked her way toward the door. She gave one last look around the room. I just don’t fit in here. I shouldn’t have tried to come home.
Chapter 3
The reunion had rocked on for another hour or so and Sam was exhausted. As usual, the third set had been the longest and she felt drained and dehydrated. She was soaked with sweat, her bangs sticking to her forehead and shirt clinging to her chest. The band members were the only ones still left in the ballroom now. Even the hotel personnel had finished cleaning up and left. This was always the most difficult part of the night for Sam. Instruments had to be packed, yards and yards of cords unplugged and wound up, and all the equipment had to be carried outside and loaded into Robbie and Bryan's trucks. It didn’t matter how tired they all were. It was part of the job.
Lisa called out to the group, "Hey gang, I'm going to go get us some drinks. I'll be right back." The group finished their packing and moved the equipment over to the side door where the trucks would pull up to be loaded. Then, they sat on the amps and equipment boxes chatting while waiting for Lisa to return with the drinks. "Here we go guys!" said Lisa as she came through the door," A much-deserved drink after a hard night’s work." Sam accepted a bottle of water and took a big gulp to quench her thirst. "Whew, thanks Lisa, I needed that."
"No problem, Sam" said Lisa, sipping a beer. "By the way, guess who is in the bar right now?"
Sam looked quizzically at her sister. "In the bar?"
"Yeah," said Lisa, "Tina is in there."
"Really?"
"Yes, really."
"Um...Lisa?"
"Yes, Sam?"
"Would you do me a favor? Take my guitar and sax home for me?"
Lisa smirked at Sam, "Suddenly feel the need for a beer, Sis?"
"Well, maybe just one," said Sam, smiling.
"Ok." Lisa said, "Just be careful, ok?"
"I will."
Lisa sighed as she watched Sam head for the bar. I saw the twinkle in your eye when you looked at her, Samantha Whitwell. I just hope you meant it when you said you'd be careful.
Sam entered the almost deserted bar and had no trouble spotting Tina seated at the far end. She stopped near the entrance and spoke to the bartender, "I'd like a Miller Lite and please give the lady," she glanced at Tina, "another of whatever she is drinking."
"She has made it pretty clear she doesn't want company," the bartender chuckled as he handed Sam her beer. "You sure?"
"Yes, I'm sure."
Sam saw that Tina had changed into jeans and a white V- neck tee shirt. Can it be possible that she looks even better in that than she did in the black dress? Heck, she'd look good in a burlap sack. But I LIKE the jeans and tee shirt. Sam paid for the drinks, took her beer, and headed toward Tina. Ok, you wanted a chance to talk her again and here it is. Now, what the heck are you going to say? Sam slid onto the stool next to Tina. "Hi."
Tina had seen Sam enter the bar. She watched her approach in her peripheral vision. She's a good-looking woman, that's for sure. Her blonde hair, cut in a short, layered fashion was moist with sweat and her shirt..she's sweated quite a bit. Tina held back a smile at the sight. She’s a cutie. "So, we meet again," said Tina.
"Um...yeah" Sam stared at her beer bottle intently, afraid to look up. Silence settled over the women until the bartender arrived.
"Here ya go," he said, putting the drink in front of Tina." Compliments of the little lady here."
"Thanks." Tina nodded at Sam.
"You're welcome…um… I'm glad you came to the reunion."
"Really?” Tina focused on the TV above the bar. “Why?"
"Well, you are one of the few people from Lisa’s class that I remember. I always got a ride home from school with my sister so I used to watch track practice every day.” Sam shrugged her shoulders. “I just wondered how you were doing.”
Tina continued to stare at the TV and Sam was not sure if she was listening or not.
“It's hard to explain… but ...I'd…um… like to be friends."
That brought Tina’s attention back to the younger woman. “Friends?”
"Well, sure, why not? Unless you seniors are still worried about being seen hanging around with freshmen," Sam flashed her a big smile.
Tina sighed and looked at the TV, the bartender, the rows of liquor bottles, anything but the woman next to her. She looks so damn wholesome. I'd ruin her life in nothing flat. "I don't think that would be a good idea.” The disappointment evident on Samantha’s face caused her to continue. “Besides, I'm leaving Monday morning anyway."
“Are you doing anything tomorrow night?" Sam asked.
"Tomorrow night?” Tina tried to quickly think of a feasible excuse.
"Yeah, we have our big Labor Day celebration. It's fun. All summer there are concerts at the park. The last Sunday of the summer we have a big orchestra concert and fireworks display. It's REALLY cool."
Tina marveled at her enthusiasm. She makes it sound like the most exciting thing in the whole world.
Sam continued, "And, well, I'm in the orchestra, but I could pick you up and bring you to the park. Then, you could keep the spot we pick until the concert is over and I'll be back for the fireworks. I’ll even make a picnic dinner."
"Look,” Tina interrupted, ”I'm not sure why you are doing this… we don't even know each other."
Tina instantly regretted the comment as she saw the dejected look on Sam's face.
Good job T, you have a knack for saying just the right thing in situations like this. You came to this reunion thinking it might be the first step in getting your life back on track. The reunion… well…you survived it. But here is somebody actually making an effort to know you. Maybe even become a friend.
Sam had been sitting quietly. It appeared that Tina was deep in thought, so Sam decided to wait for her to speak. The air conditioning in the bar kicked on and Sam shivered in her still damp clothing.
"Are you cold?"
"It's okay. I'm fine,” Sam replied.
Tina regarded the front of Sam’s shirt and raised an eyebrow at the obvious lie. She removed her jacket from the back of her stool. “Here. Put this on.”
"Oh, no.” Sam put her hands up in protest. “I'll get it all sweaty. It's ok. really."
Tina stood and held out the brown suede jacket. "Put it on. A little sweat won't hurt it. It's the least I can do for the gracious woman who bought me a drink."
"Okay. Thank you."
Sam got up and slipped her arms into the sleeves of the coat. Oh my...this is NICE.
There were a few moments of silence as the women sat back down and sipped their drinks.
"What time is the concert going to be?" Tina broke the silence.
"It starts at 7:30, but I would need to be there around 6:45 to warm up with the orchestra.”
Tina jumped in before Sam could continue, "Okay."
"Okay?"
"Yes…okay… I'll go.”
The smile that lit up Sam's face made Tina glad that she had said yes. It won't kill me to go and if it makes her THAT happy, well, it's worth it.
"How about I pick you up here at the hotel at about 6:30? What kind of sandwich do you want?"
"Anything. Don't worry about it. Whatever you are having will be fine."
The bartender came over to check on his customers. "Anything else ladies?" he asked. "Last call."
"No, thanks." They replied in unison.
"Well, I guess I'd better get going," Sam said, as she stood and started to take off the jacket.
"Wait," said Tina "Leave it on. I'll walk you to your car "
“Really. It’s all right. I'll be fine," said Sam.
"No, I’ll walk you to your car." Tina replied in a no nonsense voice.
“Um…Okay. Thanks.”
They walked through the lobby and out the front door of the hotel.
"Do you always stay up this late?" asked Sam.
"A lot of times, yes. I don't sleep very well."
"Oh." Wonder what that’s all about. "Thank you so much for letting me wear your jacket. This is my car right here. I'll pick you up tomorrow night at 6:30...right?"
Tina took the jacket and nodded in agreement. "Good night, Samantha."
"Good night, Tina."
Tina watched Sam drive off. Once the car was out of sight, she turned back toward the hotel. Maybe I can get a couple of hours of sleep now.
Sam looked in the rearview mirror as long as she could. She could see Tina standing there until she made the turn onto the main road. Samantha ...wow... I like the way she says that.
Chapter 4
The sound of a door closing and voices in the hallway woke Tina. She rolled over and looked at the bedside clock. 7:14 - the bright red numbers announced. Lying back, she threw her arm over her eyes to block out the sun that was peeking in from around the edges of the drapes. She lay there for several minutes, listening to the sounds of other hotel guests leaving their rooms and heading out to greet the day. Well, I'm in no rush to get where I'm going this morning…
Tina did have plans for the day. Plans that up until last night hadn't included a concert and fireworks. How did I let myself get talked into that? Thoughts of twinkling green eyes flashed across Tina's mind and she smirked. You know damn right well how you got talked into that. She didn't exactly have to twist your arm, did she? Well, at least the day might end better than it’s going to start.
Tina groaned as she pulled herself up to a sitting position. She sat on the edge of the bed for a few moments before slowly standing. She stretched her arms up over her head and twisted a few times from side to side. Feeling the tightness in her back loosen a bit, she picked up the room service menu. Hmmm… how ‘bout some breakfast. She looked at the menu and frowned. She straightened her arm trying to find the distance necessary to focus on the small print. Damn! She slammed the menu back down on the table and grabbed her backpack off the chair. Rummaging through it, she finally grasped an eyeglass case and pulled it out. “You'd think they'd print these menus so people could read them!” She muttered as she put the glasses on and looked at the menu again. Okay…Breakfast of Champions…I may need that today...and some coffee. Her decision made, Tina called in her order, put her glasses away, and stepped into the bathroom. I can probably get a quick shower in before the food arrives.
Running her fingers through her hair, she glanced into the mirror. Moving closer to her reflection, she examined the crop of gray hairs just above her temple. I can't believe it...gray hair...a LOT of it too. Wonder if I should color it. Geez...glasses, gray hair...you are getting old, T...like it or not. This thought elicited a heavy sigh from the woman as she stepped into the shower. It was going to be a long day.
Sam put her pillow over her head. Who in the heck is making all that noise down there? Even with the pillow muffling the sound, Sam heard the automatic garage door opening and someone moving around in the garage below her apartment. Finally, the door closed and Sam tried to go back to sleep. She tossed and turned, trying to find a comfortable position, but sleep eluded her. Normally, she fell right back to sleep when the garage door opened and closed. She was so used to the sound, sometimes she didn’t even hear it at all. But today, her mind immediately went into overdrive, reviewing the events of the night before. There would be no more sleeping for Sam this morning.
"Argh..." Sam heaved herself out of bed and looked at the clock. Gosh, I can't believe it's almost 10:00. She went to her window and looked out to see if Lisa's car was parked in the driveway. Great! She’s home. Barefoot, and still in the tee shirt and shorts she had worn to bed, Sam went down the stairs and across the walkway to her sister's back door. "Hi. Anybody home?" Sam called out as she entered.
"Well, if it isn't Ms. Sleepyhead," said Lisa, coming into the kitchen. "You ready for a cup of coffee?"
"Absolutely!" said Sam.
“So.” Lisa got out the mugs and filled them with coffee. “How did it go with Tina last night?"
"She's...um.... very interesting"
"She is?" Lisa grinned at her sister. “Do tell.”
The sisters took their coffees and sat at the kitchen table.
"Well, it's hard to explain. I just feel like there is so much going on behind that stoic look she has.” Sam shrugged. “ I just want to get to know her better. Find out what she is really like."
"Uh huh. And it doesn't hurt that she is beautiful either," Lisa responded.
"She’s gorgeous! Well, you know that. And her eyes are SO blue and she has this little patch of gray...and..." Sam stopped in mid-sentence as her sister started laughing.
"What?" Sam asked.
"You, Samantha Whitwell, have it bad. I've seen that look before..."
"Now Lisa, REALLY..."
"Ah ah ah,” Lisa stopped Sam’s protesting. “Don't you try to tell me any different. I thought you were going to faint when she shook your hand last night."
Sam felt the heat creeping up into her face. "All right. I'm busted. But Lisa, this one is different… she's the one."
"What do you mean?" Lisa was puzzled.
Sam said in a rush, "Remember when you told me about when you first met Michael? How you just knew he was the one you wanted to marry? Somewhere inside you just felt it was right?"
Lisa smiled at the memory, "Yes, that’s true. I knew he was the man for me."
"I got that same feeling last night. I know Tina is the one for me. I looked into her eyes and saw...I don't know how to say it...so much pain and conflict...but I think I'm the one that was meant to reach out to her. It was very strange. I felt it way inside of me...deep in my heart. I've never felt like that before about anybody.” Sam stared down at her coffee cup. “ I guess it sounds crazy, huh?"
"No, it doesn't sound crazy, Sam. But what are you going to do about it? Have you told her you are gay? Is she gay?"
"No, I didn't tell her. And I have no idea if she is or not. We didn't get much of a chance to talk."
"So," Lisa asked, "Are you going to see her again?"
A big smile spread across Sam's face. "Yes. She's going to the concert and fireworks with me tonight."
"My goodness, you must have really turned on the Whitwell charm, huh?"
"Hey," replied Sam, "If it worked for you with Michael, it can work for me, too!"
Both sisters laughed.
"Lisa?"
"Yeah?"
"What do you know about her? Will you please tell me?"
"Well, let me think…. After graduation she went to Florida State University on a track scholarship. She came back and was working for some corporation. I'm not sure what kind of job it was. I think I heard she was engaged or something..."
"Engaged?" Sam interrupted.
"Yes. Engaged to some guy from where she worked, I think."
"What happened?" Sam was leaning forward now as if she could hear the words sooner that way.
"Give me a minute here. I wasn't even friends with her. Most of this I heard from other people, so I don't even know if it's all true."
"Go on, tell me the rest," Sam urged.
"About...oh, I guess 10 years ago, she was involved in a horrible automobile accident and her brother was killed. Tina was driving the car and word had it that she felt responsible for her brother's death. She left town and I don’t think anyone has heard from her since."
"She was driving?" asked Sam. "I remember people talking about Steven dying in a car accident. I didn't know that Tina was driving. Was she hurt?"
"They both were taken to the hospital so she must have had injuries, but Steven's were severe. He died that night," Lisa replied solemnly.
"Wow. They were so close. I used to see them goofing around at track practice. He could make her smile like nobody else could," Sam reflected.
"Really?" said Lisa. "You had your eye on her back in high school, did you?"
"Um, well...I just thought she was interesting. I didn't even know I liked women then...so stop that!" Sam swatted at her sister’s arm.
Lisa grabbed Sam's hand before she could pull it back. "Sam, please be careful. Tina has a lot of guilt...problems...whatever...who knows..."
"I can handle it."
Lisa sighed. "Sam, remember Sally?"
"Sally? What the heck does she have to do with this?"
"Well, I recall being concerned about my sister dating this tattooed drummer chick. But I was told not to worry because all Sally needed was love... and understanding... and...."
"Ok!" Sam rolled her eyes. "That was years ago! Will I EVER live that down?"
Lisa laughed. "I doubt it."
"This is NOT the same as Sally.
“Well,” Lisa cleared her throat. “What about Kim? Are you sure it’s over?”
Sam sighed. “I’m sorry that didn’t work out, Lisa. I know she is your friend and you really think she’s perfect for me. I really do care about her. I’m just not in love with her. It wouldn’t be fair for me to stay in a relationship like that. I mean, when I’m not really in love.”
“She’s still in love with you,” Lisa said gently.
“I know. There is nothing I can do about that. I just hope that in time we can be friends.”
Lisa took the mugs to refill them. “All right then. You’re sure that Tina is the one, huh?”
“Yes. I’m telling you, this is something special. I swear it."
"Pinky swear?"
"Yeah, pinky swear."
The sisters joined pinkies.
"I hope for your sake you’re right," said Lisa. "Otherwise you're headed for a whole lot of hurt."
"I'm sure about this," said Sam, remembering those troubled blue eyes. "She needs somebody, Lisa. She needs me."
Chapter 5
Tina pulled out of the parking lot and headed down the familiar streets of her hometown. There was total silence in the car and Tina was deep in thought. I can do this...I have to. It's time to move on... and I can't move on until I face the past. She made the final turn and saw the high school directly ahead. She tensed at the sight of it and took a couple of deep breaths, trying to calm her rapidly beating heart. Entering the parking lot in front of the school, she stopped the car and stared at the three story, red brick building. It looked exactly the way she remembered it.
Several moments passed. Tina tried to prepare for the flood of memories she knew would be coming. Finally, she pressed her foot to the gas pedal and accelerated quickly around to the back of the school. Tina parked the car and stared out the windshield. There it is… the track. She noticed that her hands, resting on the steering wheel, were shaking. She picked her backpack up off the passenger seat and got out of the car. Setting the alarm with the remote, she put the backpack over her shoulder and walked up to the chain link fence that surrounded the track. Reaching up and grasping the chain link with her hands, Tina looked through the fence. Tears filled her eyes and she fought to keep them from falling. This was the last place she and Steven had been before the accident. She couldn't hold the tears back any longer and they silently ran down her cheeks.
After a few minutes, she managed to compose herself enough to push back from the fence and walk through the gate. There were several people there, either walking or jogging around the track. She ambled onto the grassy infield and sat down. Removing a towel from her backpack, she wiped the remaining tears from her face. She took out her water bottle and took a long sip. Okay. I'm here and the world didn't end. I’ll be all right.
Tina did several stretching exercises, and then walked onto the track. She started jogging slowly, loosening up her muscles as she made her first lap around the track. She continued to jog, lap after lap, finding that it was helping to calm her. She started to feel the fatigue in her legs and she picked up the pace, in order to push herself for a final few laps. Faster and faster, she felt her body hold its form, imprinted from years of practice.
The other people on the track had stopped their exercise to watch the woman moving rapidly around the track. Her long, dark hair was pulled back into a ponytail that trailed behind her. Her tank top and gym shorts revealed a well-toned body working in perfect synchronization. She seemed to have limitless energy, sailing around the track again and again. She was a sight to behold.
Tina was oblivious to the people around her. She was in her own world. Her legs were seriously protesting at this point, but she pressed on so she could end at the spot where the finish line had been during high school. She burst across the pretend line, and then slowed her pace to an easy jog and, eventually, a walk. That was quite a workout… but it sure felt good. Returning to her spot on the infield, she wiped the sweat off her face and drank from her water bottle before doing her post workout stretches.
Tina sat there in the infield for another half-hour, reflecting on the direction her life had taken after that horrible day so long ago. It seemed like she was a completely different person now. There was the Tina from before the accident and the Tina from after the accident. Sighing, she tried to reconcile in her mind that she was, indeed, both of them. I feel better now that I’ve been here, though… I'm glad I came. She gathered her things and walked toward her car. Just one more stop...
Tina guided her car through the open wrought iron gates of the cemetery. The tires made a crunching noise on the gravel road as she eased the car slowly along the path she knew so well. After a succession of turns, she pulled over and parked the car, observing that, at the moment, she was the only person in this section of the cemetery. Good… I like it that way.
It was a beautiful Florida day. The sun was shining but it was not too hot, yet. Puffy white clouds dotted the bright blue sky and a slight breeze rustled the tree branches. Tina stepped into the shade of a large oak tree and knelt down in front of her brother’s grave. “Hi, Stevie.” She kissed her fingertips and touched his name engraved in the granite. She knelt there for a few moments, just staring at the headstone.
Steven Mellekas
1959-1989
Beloved Son and Brother
Sometimes Tina thought that if she stared at it long enough, she could convince herself that it really was true. He was gone…forever. In one split second on a rain slicked street, Steven’s life was taken and hers irreversibly changed. It was one of those moments that she replayed over and over in her mind. She wished she could go back and change what had happened that day. She would give anything to be able to do that. She had wished many a time that it was she, not Steven, who had been killed that day. He didn’t deserve to die. And it was her fault.
Tina shifted so that she was sitting cross- legged, still gazing at the headstone.
I went to the high school reunion, Steve. Can you believe it? I must have surprised a few people with that. I was going to come to visit you anyway, so I figured, what the heck…I’ll go to the reunion, too. It was hard to be there without you. But that was the point I guess…to start trying to live my life again. And realizing that what happened can’t be changed…you’re not ever coming back. Tears filled Tina’s eyes. I always have you in my heart, though. I carry you everywhere with me…and I always will. I know that after the accident you would have wanted me to go on and have a happy life. It just hasn’t been that simple. But today, I promise you that I will at least try to stop beating myself up about it and pull my life together. That’s what you would want… and I was never very good at refusing you, was I?
Tina moved so that she could lean her back against the headstone and stretch her legs out in front of her.
I went to the track today. It wasn’t easy. I almost turned around and left when I saw the school, but I knew I had to do it. I had to face that place. Avoiding it for ten years certainly hasn’t helped any. I had so many memories of you while I was there. Not just of the last day, but all the days of track practice… Tina’s train of thought was interrupted by the sound of a car approaching. She watched it pass and continue to the next section of the cemetery. Speaking of track practice, I saw Lisa Whitwell at the reunion. You remember her, don’t you? She ran sprints and did the hurdles. Her sister was there, too. I KNOW you remember HER. A smile appeared on Tina’s face. Well, her name is Samantha and she asked me to go to a concert and fireworks display tonight. I’m not sure how it happened, but I’m going. I can imagine you are finding that amusing and are laughing down at me right now. She reminds me of you, Stevie. She’s one of those people who are so full of life, always with a twinkle in her eye. She sees the good in everything… and everybody. When she looks at me though, I feel so…exposed. It’s as if she can read everything going on inside me. Honestly, that scares the hell out of me. At the same time, there is something about her… I can’t really explain it … but I like her.
She said she wants to be my friend. I haven’t had a friend in a long time. I’m not sure I remember how.
Some birds flew from the tree and landed in the sun-drenched grass a short distance from Tina. She remained still, leaning against the headstone, feeling the sense of peace that always came over her when she sat here. She knew it was Steven. It was like he was covering her with a blanket of love and acceptance… no matter what she had done. She watched the birds, and felt the breeze, and breathed in the smells of the grass and trees and flowers. It was extraordinary that here, in the cemetery, was where she felt the most alive.
Chapter 6
Lisa and Samantha pushed their carts up the aisle of the supermarket.
“What kind of sandwich did she say she wanted?” Lisa asked.
“She said she’d have whatever I was having,” Sam responded.
Lisa burst out laughing. “She obviously didn’t realize that your diet consists of Ring Dings and diet soda.”
“C’mon, Lisa. Help me out here.” Sam peered into the deli case. “How about turkey? Everybody likes turkey, huh?”
“Why don’t you make a couple of different kinds?” Lisa looked at the bread counter in front of the deli case. “And put some on wheat bread, too. Then you cover all the bases.”
“Good idea!”
The women made their deli selections and continued through the supermarket filling their carts with provisions.
“Lisa?” Sam hefted two twelve packs of diet soda into her cart.
“Yeah?”
“If everything goes well tonight, I was thinking of asking Tina to come back next weekend.”
Lisa turned her attention from the liter of soda she was about to select and looked at Sam. “Moving a little fast, aren’t you?”
“No.” Sam leaned down and rested her arms on the handle of the cart. “I mean as friends. I’d like to spend time with her… get to know her better.”
“Where does she live?”
“I don’t know.”
“You’d better remember, there is a LOT you don’t know about her,” Lisa said sternly. “She is a virtual stranger. I hate to see you get your hopes up and then get hurt.”
“I know.” Sam looked down into her cart to avoid her sister’s glare.
Lisa softened her tone. “Besides, she could live in California, or Michigan, or who knows where.”
“But she came back for the reunion. I think she really wants to be here. So, I thought maybe I could give her another reason to come back.”
Lisa put the liter of soda in her cart and the women headed to the check-out counter.
“And what are you planning to do if she does say yes?” Lisa asked.
“Well, I thought maybe you would make your world famous barbecue chicken. You know… have a cookout.” Sam peeked at her sister to see her reaction.
“You’re kidding, right?” Lisa said.
Sam looked at her expectantly.
“Oh, Samantha. You would owe me big time…”
Sam’s face brightened. “Is that a yes?”
Lisa sighed, “Yes.”
“THANKS!” Sam hugged her sister.
“Um, Sam?”
“Yeah?”
“People are staring. Can you let go of me now?”
Tina had managed to sleep for several hours in the afternoon. It seems that’s all I can do now. Get a few hours in here and there. I can’t remember the last time I got a full night’s sleep. She looked through her suitcase for something to wear to the concert and fireworks display. It had become quite hot that afternoon and it would still be very warm that evening. She took out a pair of khaki walking shorts and a sleeveless denim shirt. Here we go… this will do fine. She dressed quickly and ran a brush through her hair. Grabbing her backpack, she went out the door and down to the lobby. Maybe I’ll wait outside. Out of habit, she glanced at her wrist to check the time. Damn it! She had stopped wearing her watch months ago. She could no longer see the time on the small watch face, no matter how far she extended her arm away from her body. Now, every time she looked at her bare wrist, she was reminded that her eyesight was not what it used to be.
Tina squinted as she stepped out of the hotel into the brilliant sunlight. I think I’d better get my sunglasses out of the car. She searched through her backpack for the keys as she walked to the car. Ah ha! Got ‘em. The car made a chirping sound as she deactivated the alarm with the remote. She reached in, retrieved the glasses, and reset the alarm. Putting on the glasses, she looked around and noticed a palm tree. There’s a good a place to wait. Tina walked over and stood in the shade. I don’t know how I get myself into these things… what am I doing hanging around with the likes of Samantha Whitwell? And what is she doing hanging around with me? I’m nothing but trouble. Maybe she LIKES trouble… hmmm… don’t go there, T. Sam isn’t like that. Only a few minutes with her and anybody could see that. She is honest and open and… and everything I’m not. Well, I’ll try not to be a bad influence on you, Sam. I ought to be able to handle that for one night.
Tina stepped forward when the Toyota pulled into the parking lot. Sam saw her and drove up.
“Hi,” Tina said as she got in the car and fastened her seatbelt.
“Hi. Glad you could make it.” Sam exited the parking lot and turned onto Tamiami Trail.
“Where is the concert going to be?” Tina asked.
“Phillippi Estate Park.”
“Oh, it’s nice there.” Tina looked out the passenger window. “So, you are in the orchestra?”
Sam chuckled. “Yeah, it’s my real job. Lisa’s band is just a part-time thing.”
The radio played softly as the women sat in silence for the rest of the short ride.
“What do you do?” Sam asked as she pulled into the park entrance. “I mean…for a job.”
“I work for a travel agency.”
“You’re a travel agent?” Sam spotted a parking place and pulled in.
“Not exactly. I do a little bit of everything.”
“Here we are,” Sam said as she turned off the car. “Will you help me carry the stuff?”
“Sure.”
The women got out and went around to the back of the vehicle. Sam unlocked the hatch and opened the door.
Looking at the compartment full of paraphernalia, Tina said incredulously, “We need all that?”
“Well, it’s best to be prepared. I didn’t know if you wanted to sit in chairs or just use a blanket. And we need the cooler. And those are my clothes to change after the concert. And…”
Tina put up her hand to stop Sam’s explanation. “Let’s just use the blanket.”
Sam reached in and got the blanket and a small instrument case.
“What’s that?” Tina nodded at the case as she reached for the cooler.
“Oh, it’s my clarinet. That’s what I play in the orchestra.”
“ARGH!” Tina grunted as she put the cooler on the ground.
“Are you all right?” Sam asked worriedly.
“What in the WORLD do you have in that cooler?” Tina said with exasperation in her voice. “Never mind…put the other stuff on top of it and we’ll both carry it.”
Sam put the clarinet case and blanket on the cooler and locked up the car.
The women each grasped a handle and headed toward the grassy spectator area. Tina was having a heck of a time carrying the cooler with the shorter woman. She was bending her knees so it would remain level and the objects on top would not slide off. Then, her backpack kept sliding down her other arm because of her awkward position. Why was it that I agreed to this? Tina looked over at Sam, who looked back at her with a huge smile. Oh, yeah. I remember.
“Where would you like to sit?” Sam stopped walking.
“Let’s put the cooler down,” Tina said, as she began lowering her side. “How about we stay right here. That way, we’ll be close to the car and when the concert is over you can get your clothes without having to go very far." And we won’t have to lug this damn cooler all over the place.
“Okay.” Sam picked up the blanket and unfolded it.
“Here. Let me help.” Tina took the opposite side and helped Sam spread the blanket on the ground.
“I’m sorry to leave you so soon, but I need to get to work.” Sam lifted her clarinet case from the cooler, “Help yourself to anything you’d like in the cooler. I’ll be back right after the concert is over.”
“Okay. I’ll be here,” Tina replied, settling down on the blanket.
The park filled up rapidly, and by 7:30 there were hundreds of people camped out on the grass around Tina. Children were running all over the place, laughing and playing. Tina had attempted to read a book she had brought along but she rapidly abandoned it. Watching the people was much more interesting.
Then, the orchestra had tuned up and the conductor had announced the beginning of the concert. As the music floated out over the crowd, most of the people quieted down. The orchestra sounded very good. Tina found the music soothing and she stretched out on the blanket. She closed her eyes and focused on the music. Her breathing slowed and she felt her body relaxing. This isn’t so bad… in fact, it’s kind of nice. She remained like that, long body extended across the length of the blanket for half an hour. Anyone observing her would have thought she was asleep.
A grumbling of her stomach finally convinced Tina it was time to sit up. Wonder what’s in the cooler? Tina lifted the lid and inspected the contents. Good… bottles of water… and sandwiches… she LABELED them? Let’s see… turkey plain, turkey L/T/Mayo… ham and cheese… There must be 6 different sandwiches in here. Soda… chips… and what’s this? Tina picked up a small object wrapped in tin foil. It can’t be. She unwrapped the foil. A RingDing? Tina smiled. When was the last time I had one of these? Way back before I had to worry about things like calories and fat grams… that’s when. Well, this IS a special occasion and I already unwrapped it… Tina enjoyed her water and Ring Ding while the orchestra started a series of patriotic tunes. A rousing version of Stars and Stripes Forever ended the concert and the crowd showed its appreciation with lengthy applause. The orchestra members stood and bowed but Tina could not see Sam. She’s too small to see in that large group…Tina looked at the crumpled foil wrapper in her hand…but good things can come in small packages.
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