Chapter 1
Daniel McKnight was in his first year of teaching right out of college.
This twenty-three year old brunette with green eyes stood six foot, and his
body had the admiration of most of the female student population. He was
supposed to be the varsity track coach in the spring as well as a junior
English teacher. He thought he had successfully managed his first semester
until just after the organized track meeting in late November. As part of
training for the season until the weather improved, he wanted everyone
lifting weights and working on their strength.
One afternoon he had gone down to the weight room to do some lifting
himself and found it to be rather quiet. He went about his workout trying to
block everyone else out until he heard a female voice call out his name. He
turned around to see a brunette with a tall, slender but toned body.
“Yes?” he asked.
“I’m sorry to bother you, Coach McKnight, but I was wondering if you wanted
the sprinters to do any special lifting?”
“Oh yeah. You’re the sprinter everyone keeps telling me about. Kristen,
isn’t it?” She nodded. “Well,” Dan stated inadvertently looking over her
5'8" frame. “You all ready seem like you’re in pretty good shape. A bit of
distance running never hurt anybody, though, to work on your endurance. Why
don’t you run on the treadmill for awhile?” She nodded leaving him to his
workout.
A little while later she sensed she was being watched, so she turned to
look over her shoulder to see Dan’s eyes glued to her legs. “What?” she
asked.
Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, Dan answered, “Oh, I was just
watching your stride.”
Kristen stepped off the treadmill. “This is so boring. I’d much rather run
outside.”
“Me too.” Dan agreed unconsciously raising the hem of his t-shirt to wipe
his brow. Kristen’s eyes immediately fell to his cut abs and took a ragged
breath in awe. When Dan dropped his shirt tail, he noticed her eyes on his
sweaty chest. Feeling awkward at the way she was gapping at him, he folded
his arms across his chest. “Well, I should be going. I’ll see you later,
Kristen. Soon it’ll be warm enough to run outside and then the real fun
begins.”
She smiled responding, “I can hardly wait, Coach McKnight.”
“Call me Dan or just Coach. Coach McKnight makes me sound like an old man.”
he stated.
“Well, how old are you?”
“Twenty-three. What about you? Seventeen, eighteen?”
“Eighteen.”
Eighteen and so gorgeous he thought to himself as he watched her pull back
her light brown, dark blonde hair. His green eyes met her hazel ones,
locking for a moment too long. “Well, I’ll see you later.” he said abruptly
surprised that he had allowed himself to let his guard down.
****************************************************************
The following day Dan had cafeteria duty at lunch time. He was chatting
with some other coaches as he ate a sandwich and oversaw the lunch crowd
when he spotted Kristen sitting with some friends. He found himself just
watching her for a few moments until she suddenly looked up, meeting his
eyes. Dan smiled nonchalantly at her before shifting his gaze. After a
moment he looked back. She was still looking at him. Slowly Kristen raised
her cup to her lips to drink as Dan gazed on never breaking their eye lock.
Pulling her drink away she licked her lips. Dan didn’t even realize the
heavy exhale he gave until the coach standing next to him asked if he was
all right. Dan answered that he was and quickly turned away.
****************************************************************
A few weeks after the students returned from winter holiday, official track
practice began after school. Dan was already at the track when he saw
Kristen with some friends walking toward him. He said nothing to them at
first, but when he noticed them just standing around, he suggested that they
stretch while they waited for the others. Everyone but Kristen complied with
the request. Dan noted her half-hearted attempt before assigning running
assignments to everybody.
He spent the first part of practice with the distance runners before
working with the sprinters. He had them line up four at a time for a one
hundred yard dash just to get a feel for everyone’s running style and speed.
Kristen lined up in the first group. Although she was rumored to be the
fastest on the team, she came in last, wincing in pain as she crossed the
finish line. She collapsed on the track holding her calf.
Dan rushed over to her, falling to his knees. “What’s wrong?” he asked.
“Cramp.” she whined.
Dan stretched her leg out and massaged the calf until her pain subsided.
“You know, if you would just stretch like I asked you to, this wouldn’t
happen. Now, anything else cramping?”
Dan watched one of Kristen’s hand drop between her thighs and touch the
back of her leg. “My hamstring.”
“Where?”
Rolling onto her hip, Kristen pointed to the highest part of her leg.
“Here.” she whispered.
Dan’s jaw flexed tightly, knowing he shouldn’t touch her but surprised that
he was actually thinking about it. “I better let the trainer look at that
one.” he mentioned.
“No.” she protested grabbing his hand. “Just rub right here.”
He rubbed momentarily looking for a spasming muscle but finding none he
pulled away. “You’re just going to have to go to the trainer for that one.”
he stated nervously.
Kristen smiled sensing their mutual attraction. “Okay. I’ll do that.” she
replied.
The next day Dan noticed Kristen stretching with everyone else. He watched
her for a few minutes, eyeing the curves of her legs and hips. He knew he
wanted her, but he also knew he couldn’t have her. Suddenly his eyes met
hers, and she motioned him over. Lying on the ground, she lifted her leg at
him, resting it high on his inner thigh. “Will you help me stretch out my
leg, please? I can’t seem to get it fully stretched.”
Dan took her legs and began to stretch them out for her. He noticed the way
her loose fitting shorts fell open. She made no attempt to cover herself, so
Dan’s eyes caught a glimpse of her fantasized treasure. Quickly Dan adverted
his eyes, but he had seen enough. Desperately he willed his body to stop but
to no avail. His sexual arousal was too ardent to hide. Meeting Kristen’s
eyes again, he knew she was tempting him on purpose with her wicked grin. He
shifted uncomfortably. “I think you’re fully stretched now.” he said
dropping her legs.
Putting her feet flat on the ground, Kristen’s legs were bent out slightly
around his. “Not completely. I think I could still use a little stretching.”
she whispered so only he could hear, as her hand dropped between her legs to
finger hem of her shorts.
Dan quickly snapped his mouth closed. Stepping out of her leg lock, he
commanded, “Start running. We’ve got to work on starting out of the blocks
today.”
Later as he worked with her on starting blocks, they both were having
difficulty concentrating. After she had set up properly, she looked down
toward the finish line trying to focus. However, Dan was standing directly
in front of her only a few feet away. She noticed that her earlier playing
had transformed the way his shorts hung off his body. Kristen felt her body
go limp as she dropped to her knees again, lowering her head. She took a
deep breath trying to regain her own composure.
Dan knelt in front of her. “You all right?” he inquired. She shook her
head. “You have to focus, Kristen. Every time you step in these blocks, you
must focus. No distractions are allowed. How fast you get out of these
blocks determines how you finish. It takes absolute concentration.” Kristen
was finding it difficult to even breathe, he was leaning so close now. “You
have to want it, Kristen. Desire it. Yearn for it. You want it, don’t you?”
he softly growled.
“Yes.” she whimpered breathlessly.
As their eyes met again, they both allowed their emotions to be reveal. Dan
jumped to his feet as they both took calming breaths. It was ridiculous to
even think about her as an option.
Over the next few days Dan ignored Kristen to the best of his ability. He
barely spoke to her unless it was absolutely necessary. Then one day Dan was
running late for practice. Noting that the runners had started without their
routines without him, he ducked into the men’s restroom under the bleachers
to change out of his suit and tie. Not even noting the person in one of the
stalls, he ripped off his clothes and slipped on a pair of shorts. He heard
the flush and the stall door open. He turned nonchalantly but jumped when he
saw Kristen. Her eyes were glued to his bare chest.
Quickly holding his shirt up to cover himself, he asked, “What are you
doing in here?”
“Going to the bathroom. The girls was locked, and you weren’t here to
unlock it. I didn’t want to go all the way back to the main building, and I
couldn’t wait.”
“You’ve got to get out of here. This looks really bad, especially since I’m
standing here only half dressed. Go on. I’ll see you out at the track.” he
said shooing her out the door.
Their first track meet of the season was away. It had been overcast most of
the day but held off long enough for the competition. However on the way
home in the bus, the down pour began. When the bus arrived back at school
everyone raced into the building or to their cars. Dan went up to his
classroom to pick up his things before going to leave. As he walked out to
the faculty parking lot, he passed the locker rooms and saw Kristen hovering
at the glass door, looking out at the weather.
Walking up to her, he asked, “Waiting on a ride?”
“Yeah, but they said they couldn’t get here for another half an hour.” she
mumbled. Dan couldn’t keep his eyes off her wet, white, track shirt and how
it clung to her curves. Sensing his eyes on her body, she turned to look at
him directly. “What?” she softly asked.
Looking away, Dan mentioned, “Well, I was just thinking that I could give
you a ride if you wanted. Would save some else a trip.”
“You wouldn’t mind?”
“Not at all. It would be my pleasure.” he responded giving her a sexy grin.
When she agreed he slipped his trench coat around her shoulders before
opening his umbrella and heading out into the storm. Walking across the
parking lot, he curved his arm around her shoulders so they could both fit
under the umbrella. He opened the car door for her before going to his own
side. It was an obvious discomfort to them both as they rode silently with
the exception of Kristen’s directions. When Dan pulled to a stop in front of
her house, they turned to each other. Neither spoke at first.
“May I ask you a question, Coach? Would you date a younger woman?”
“Why would you ask me that?”
“Well, hypothetically speaking, if there was an eighteen year old woman
interested in you and you in her, would you?”
“Eighteen isn’t too young, but if she’s a student, I can’t. I’m not
supposed to date students. It wouldn’t matter that I thought she was
incredibly sexy or interesting. I just can’t.” Their eyes locked. “That
doesn’t mean I wouldn’t want to. I would just have to wait until she
graduates.”
“Two and a half months is a long time.”
“It’s the only way.” Dan replied.
Before Kristen realized she had said it, she whispered, “What if we can’t
wait that long?”
Dan sighed. She had finally named their tension, and Dan tried desperately
to hold to his conviction as he replied, “This isn’t easy for me either,
Kristen. Don’t you think I’ve noticed what’s been going on between us as
well? The fact of the matter is that we can’t do this regardless of how we
feel. The most we can be is friends.”
“Friends, huh? Does that mean we can hang out if we’re just friends?”
“That’s what friends do, isn’t it?” She nodded. “Then why should it be any
different with us?” he asked instinctively knowing it was probably a bad
idea.
She smiled before hugging his neck. “Good night, Dan.”
“Night.”
At track practice that next afternoon Kristen approached him after she’d
finished her workout. “Hey, listen. I have an idea. Being that we have a
long weekend and we’re supposed to be friends, maybe we could get together.”
she suggested feeling him out.
“That’s fine, as long as we’re alone, though. I wouldn’t want rumors to
start or anything. We’ll do something.”
“Great.” Kristen answered with a smile.
*****************************************************************
On Monday Dan went over to Kristen’s house, because she invited him to go
swimming in her heated pool. It was early afternoon when he arrived. Kristen
answered the door in a blue and green bikini. She smiled brightly as she
watched Dan’s eyes trail down her body and then back up to her face. Pulling
him inside, she offered him a drink, but he declined. Giving him a tour of
the house, they ended up in her bedroom.
“You have a nice room, but won’t your parents get upset if they find me in
here?”
“Oh, they’re away. They went away for the weekend and won’t be back until
tomorrow. It’s just my little brother and me, but he’s at a friend’s house.
No one knows you here, so we can relax. You want to sit down?” she asked
patting the bed next to her.
“No. I think I’ll just change into my suit.”
“Well, the bathroom’s right through there.” she said pointing. “I’ll just
wait.”
When Dan came out of the bathroom in only his shorts, he could tell she was
now checking him out as he had down to her earlier. Going to the bedside, he
stood just within her reach. Kristen wanted to touch him desperately, but
she didn’t want to be rejected, so she just stood up letting her breasts rub
up on to his chest. They stood a moment looking at each other, both knowing
this was a dangerous game, neither wanting to stop.
They went for a long swim together most of the time which was spent trying
to outdo each other on the diving board. However once Dan conceded to
defeat, they got out and began to dry off as they walked inside. They both
plopped down onto the couch and began to talk when Kristen shivered.
“You cold?” he asked briskly rubbing her arms. “Come here. I’ll keep you
warm.” Dan brought her closer, wrapping one arm around her shoulder.
“You’re cold too.” she mentioned seeing the goose bumps on his legs.
“Yeah, well, that’s because I’m sitting here in wet shorts.”
“Then take them off, or are you too shy?”
“Me shy? Never. I’m just trying to keep you respectable.”
“I don’t believe you. Prove it. I’ll even hold your towel up in front to
you in case you’re modest.” she patronized.
“Oh, please. I’ll do it without your help. Thank you very much.” Dan laid
his towel across his lap before discreetly pulling his shorts off. He threw
them at Kristen, hitting her in the face as he wrapped the towel more
securely around his hips.
Placing her hand on his bare leg under the towel, Kristen saw Dan
straighten up anxiously. She wondered if Dan would try to stop her if her
hand wandered further up his leg. They were silent as Kristen lay nuzzled
into his bare chest. She could feel his heart pounding wildly, at least
telling her that his body wanted to continue. She knew she was falling in
love with him, but she wondered if he felt the same. He had only admitted to
the physical attraction.
Dan knew he wanted this girl, but he also knew a relationship at this point
was out of the question. There were too many complications to try to make it
work. However there was no denying how her touch drove his body wild.
Neither spoke as Kristen’s hand slid up his thigh to touch him more
intimately. He groaned deeply. “Kristen,” he mumbled breathing rapidly.
Kristen kissed across his chest and then met his mouth. Dan’s hips rocked
intently as their mouths met purposefully. Slowly Kristen pulled the towel
away and knelt on the floor between his knees. Dan caught her eyes again,
knowing that they were about to cross a line that could never be undone.
“Kristen, wait. You don’t have to do this. I wouldn’t want you to think you
did.” Dan stated calmly, even though his insides churned with anticipation.
“Daniel, I want to.” softly she answered.
Closing his eyes, Dan allowed his several month fantasy to unfolded into
reality. Suddenly he heard male voices and the slamming of the front door.
He snapped his head up in time to catch the eyes of two, young, teen boys.
“Kris!” one of them yelled.
Kristen scrambled back onto the couch as Dan quickly recovered himself with
his towel. “Get lost, Jason!” she screamed in annoyance.
“What’s going on, sis?”
“None of your business! Now get out of here!”
“Who is he?” her brother asked pointing to Dan.
“Dan, why don’t we go into my room?” Kristen suggested.
“Actually, I think I better go for now, Kristen. May I take you to dinner
tonight?”
“Yeah, sounds great.”
“All right. I’m just going to go change and get out of your way for
awhile.”
When Dan returned that evening he was dressed in khaki pants, a blue dress
shirt and a tie. “Oh my, don’t you look handsome.” she mentioned taking in
his attire.
“Well, thanks. You look good too. I figured I haven’t been out on a date in
over six months, so I should put some effort into it.”
“A date, huh? Is that what this is? What happened to just being friends?”
she teased.
“I think we both know we blew that this afternoon, but if you would prefer
for this not to be a date, just say so. I just figured that you’ve only got
less than a semester left. What could possibly happen?”
Kristen smiled answering, “Lots.”
Over dinner Dan and Kristen mainly talked about track, but as the meal came
to a close, Dan inquired, “So what would you like to do now? We have to be
careful of where we go. We don’t want to run into people.”
“Well, we could always go back to my house.” Kristen mentioned.
“Or mine. I don’t have a little brother to bother us.”
“Even better. I’d love to see where you live.”
“It’s not much, but it works.” When they got back to his apartment, they
sat on the couch. “Well, here we are. What would you like to do?”
Kristen smiled, reaching for Dan’s tie. “You know, you can drop this
passive, good guy routine. I think I know you too well after this
afternoon.”
“About that, Kristen, I just want to make sure you’re okay with everything
that happened. You don’t regret it, do you?” Kristen shook her head. “Good.
I just wanted to make sure.”
Kristen’s hand fell into his lap. “I just wish we hadn’t been interrupted.”
Dan smiled as he contemplated a response. “Well, I think we might’ve jumped
the gun on that. That was quite a lot for us. Maybe we should try to start
at the beginning again.”
“Well, what if I don’t want to? What if I told you that I wanted you? What
would you say to that?”
Dan groaned as Kristen’s hand pressed into the crotch of his khakis.
Kissing her deeply he worked into her neck as he pushed her onto her back.
Her hand had worked open his zipper and slid inside his boxers. “Are you
sure about this?” he asked.
“Of course. Why are you asking me that?” she inquired nervously.
He sensed her apprehension. “I was just trying to be polite. Are you okay?
You seem nervous.”
“I’m fine.” she stammered.
Dan sat up and took a deep breath. “Something’s wrong. Whatever it is,
we’ll work it out. I don’t want to make you uncomfortable. We can stop if
you want. It won’t change the way I feel about you.” he tried to assure her.
“I don’t want to stop.” she stated firmly.
“All right. Then how can I make you more comfortable? You want a drink or
something?”
She shook her head. “Can we take a shower together? I want to see you naked
and wet.” she whispered seductively.
Having never heard that as a first time request, he answered with
amusement, “All right. Whatever you want is fine.”
Dan escorted her back into the bedroom as he began to undress himself.
Kristen rubbed his bare chest lightly. “You are such a sexy man.” she moaned
clinging to his neck.
Dan laughed slightly. “You’re not half bad yourself, Kristen. In fact
you’re one of the most attractive women I’ve seen in a long time.”
“Really?” she asked with a blush.
Dan nodded as his hands worked opened the buttons of her shirt. “I’d like
to see a lot more of you, if you’ll let me.” he whispered leaning into her
neck. Kristen held onto his neck tighter as she nodded in consent. Dan
slowly began to disrobe her until they were both naked. “Would you like to
lie down?” he whispered as his hands caressed her small but firm breasts.
“Okay.” she said unsure of herself now, but Dan didn’t seem to notice as he
pushed her down into the mattress.
Dan wedged his naked body between her thighs as he kissed her deeply, their
tongues exploring each others mouths fervently. Kissing her ear, he asked if
she was all right. She nodded slightly. He then asked if she was ready. When
she nodded a second time, he entered the place over which he’d been
fantasizing.
She cried out as her tight muscles gave way. Instantly Dan knew what he’d
just done and pulled out quickly. “Oh my God, Kristen. Are you okay? Why
didn’t you tell me you were a virgin?” he inquired seeing her tears. She
didn’t answer him at first. “Kristen, are you all right?” he asked again
with concern.
“I think so.” Her voice wavered with pain.
“What can I do for you?”
“Just lie here and hold me.” she sobbed. After awhile, Kristen quietly
asked, “May I have a drink? I’m thirsty.”
“Sure. What do you want?”
“Water’s fine.”
“All right. I’ll go get it.” he said slipping off the bed.
When he returned Kristen was lying curled up in a ball under his comforter.
Dan handed her the beverage and then climbed in beside her to hold her.
There was silence for a long time before Dan started to gently reassure her
with kisses. Kristen allowed him to slowly explore her body with his mouth.
Making his way up her body, he kissed her gently.
She laughed feeling his hips grinding against hers. “Are you ever
unaroused?” she joked lightly.
“Sorry. I tend to get excited easily.”
“We should take care of your discomfort.” she mentioned, playing serious
for a moment.
“Do you have any ideas?” he asked hopefully.
Kristen pushed him on his back and climbed on top of his body. “Well, I’d
like to try this again.” she responded.
***************************************************************
The following Monday Dan was walking into the teacher’s lounge on his lunch
break when suddenly the door came flying at him. Stopping it reflexively
with his hand, he said, “Careful there.”
A petite blonde poked her head around the corner. “Oh, I’m sorry.” Dan just
looked down with an open mouth at this beauty hiding behind her glasses.
When he didn’t say anything, she asked, “Are you all right?”
“Oh, yes. I’m fine.” he answered realizing he was just staring at her.
“You must be Coach McKnight.”
“And how did you come to that assumption?” he inquired grinning.
“I overhear the girls talking about you sometimes. They’re just wild about
you.”
“Well, I am Daniel McKnight. Who might you be?”
“Brittany. Brittany Saxton.” she stated extending her hand. Dan shook it.
“I’m sorry about hitting you with the door. I’m so late to class.”
“What class is that?” he asked not realizing he had started to walk with
her.
“Physics.”
“Oh, a science nerd.” She laughed at his joke slightly. “You don’t look
like a science nerd.”
“Well, thank you, I guess.”
“I’ve never seen you around. You subbing?”
“No. Actually, I’m student teaching.” Coming to a stop outside her
classroom, she turned to him. “Well, it was very nice meeting you, Daniel.”
“You too, Brittany. I’ll see you around hopefully.”
That afternoon Dan had his runners in the weight room lifting when he saw
Brittany walk in. Dan smiled and waved before turning his attentions back to
his runners. A few moments passed before Brittany came up to him. “Well,
hello, four eyes.” he joked.
“Hi, muscle head.” she replied pushing her glasses back up the bridge of
her nose.
Dan smiled at her banter. “So, what are you doing in here?” he inquired.
“Well, I was going to run on the treadmill, but it’s so crowded in here. I
think I’ll go out to the track instead. That is if it’s okay with you. I
wouldn’t want to disturb your practice.”
“No, it wouldn’t at all. The outside lane is always open. Go ahead.”
“Great. I’ll see you later then.”
After Brittany left, Kristen approached him. “I didn’t know you were
friends with Ms. Saxton.” she stated.
“I’m not. I just met her today.”
“I’ll tell you. All the girls around here sure do hate her.”
“Why? What’s wrong with her?”
“Let’s just say we hate her for the same reason that the guys love her.”
“What? You girls jealous because she’s pretty?”
“You think she’s pretty too?”
Dan shrugged realizing her was on thin ice. “It’s a matter of opinion, I
guess. She’s attractive, but I’m not interested or anything.”
“Good.” Kristen mumbled walking away. Dan just playfully smiled.
A little while later the team went out to the track. Brittany was still
jogging. The male distance runners began their workout trying to fall in
behind her to get a better view. Dan didn’t think much of it as he
supervised the sprinters. He was just watching Kristen and thinking back to
the night they had shared when he heard pounding steps slow behind him.
Turning he saw Brittany, and his male runners reluctantly passed them.
“You should teach them some manners, Daniel.” she said trying to catch her
breath.
“I know. They lack social grace, but they’re harmless.”
“Well, it’s not like I wouldn’t notice a pack of boys running behind me. Do
they think I’m stupid? It’s kind of hard not to feel six pairs of eyes
watching my backside. They do that in class too.”
“Well, Brittany, they are just hormonally imbalanced. I know it’s rude for
them to do, but to be quite honest, I can’t say I blame them. You’re an
attractive woman only a few years older than them. In their warped world
they actually think they have a shot at you. I’ll talk to them if you want
me to.”
“No, that’s okay. I can take care of them on my own. I’ll see you later.”
“You planning on running tomorrow?” he asked.
“Maybe. Why?”
“Well we have a meet tomorrow, so the track’s going to be closed.”
“Oh, well maybe I’ll stop by.”
Smiling Daniel said, “I hope so.”
She smiled. “Bye, Daniel.”
Daniel was just lounging on his couch after dinner that night when there
was a knock on his door. Not bothering with his shirt, he opened it. Kristen
smiled up at him.
“Hey. What are you doing here?” he asked pulling her inside.
“I just wanted to see you.”
“Come on in. Sit down. I was just watching tv.”
Sliding a hand up his chest and around his neck, she whispered playfully,
“I’d rather lie down.”
“Really?” he asked with interest. “I think we might be able to arrange
that.” he stated leading her to the bedroom.
The next afternoon Dan was out at the track preparing for the meet when he
saw Brittany watching him from a distance. She was wearing a tiny yellow and
black spandex workout suit. Her shorts barely went to mid thigh and the top
zipped in front. Her hair was pulled half up into a ponytail. He gave a
unknowingly large, lustful grin. Coming up to her, he said, “Hey there. How
are you today?”
“You seem to be in a good mood. What’s the smile for?”
“Oh, nothing. I just feel great.”
“Did you get laid or something?” she joked. Daniel didn’t answer, but his
blush revealed him. “You did, didn’t you? Who’s the lucky girl?”
“No one in particular.”
“You lie.” she teased.
Changing the subject off of himself, he mentioned with a sweeping gesture
of his hand, “You wonder why the guys gawk at you. What kind of outfit is
this?”
“Hey, I can wear whatever I want after hours. What about you? You’re one to
talk. Do you think this shirt is tight enough? Do the girls really need to
see every inch of definition?” she inquired pinching a piece of the material
that covered his chest between her fingers.
Dan laughed. “Brittany, may I ask you a personal question?” She nodded. “Is
there any sort of companion in your life? You know, boyfriend, girlfriend,
whatever?”
Brittany nodded. “There is a guy I’ve been seeing for awhile. Why do you
ask? You didn’t think I was a lesbian, did you?”
“I had hoped not. It would’ve been a great loss for mankind. Seriously
though, I was just thinking that you’re pretty cool. I was just wondering if
we could hang out. Maybe go to a club or dinner or something. I just didn’t
want the invitation to get misconstrued. That’s all.”
“Yeah. That would be great. I don’t know a lot of people in this area. My
boyfriend is back at school with most of my friends. It kind of sucks to be
teaching my last semester so far away from them.” Dan just nodded in
understanding remembering what it was like for him. “Hey, maybe you could go
down to school with me sometime. My friends would love you. There are always
great parties on the weekend.”
“Sounds cool.”
************************************************************
On Friday evening a few weeks later, Dan was getting ready to take
Brittany out to dinner when there was a knock on his door. Expecting it to
be her, he opened it with his biggest smile. However it faltered a moment
when he saw Kristen standing there. “Hey, what are you doing here?”
“I just wanted to see you.”
“Well, I’m on my way out to dinner with a friend. I was just waiting on
them. We can hang out until they get here.” he said soothingly seeing her
pouting face as he closed the door behind her.
“That’s okay. I know we shouldn’t be seen together.”
“Well, I’ll call you tomorrow, and we can do something.” They kissed softly
only to break away at the sound of a knock. “Oh, shit. She’s already here.
This isn’t going to look good.”
“She?”
“Brittany Saxton. I’ll think of something. Go sit on the couch, and follow
my lead.”
Opening the door he greeted her. She looked adorable in her tight jeans and
white dress shirt. Dan tried to introduce them, but it was obvious that they
already knew each other.
“Kristen, how are you?” Brittany asked with some suspicion.
“Good. How are you, Ms. Saxton?”
“Just fine.”
“Well, Kristen, it looks like our time is up. Can we take up this
conversation later?” he asked trying to cue her.
“Oh yeah. I have to be going anyway. Shelby is having a party, and I
wouldn’t want to miss any of it.”
“I don’t want to know about it.” Dan warned opening the door for her.
“I know. I just like getting you worked up.”
Dan shook his head slightly. “Good night, Kristen.”
“Good night, Coach, Ms. Saxton.”
“Bye.” Brittany replied before Dan closed the door.
“Sorry. We had a little track issue to discuss.” Dan said trying to cover
for himself.
“That’s a girl who has obvious feelings for you, Daniel.”
Dan shrugged uncomfortably. “I try not to notice stuff like that. You ready
to go?” abruptly he asked.
When they got to the restaurant the wait was over an hour, but they
occupied themselves by studying the novelty items hanging on the wall. After
finally being seated, they both ordered beers while looking over the menu.
Brittany ended up ordering a baked potato and salad while Dan indulged in a
steak.
Once the waiter was gone, Dan inquired, “Is there a reason you aren’t
eating steak? It is a steakhouse after all. ”
“I’m a vegetarian, Daniel.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know that. I shouldn’t have suggested we come
here. How thoughtless of me. Would you rather go somewhere else?”
“No. It’s fine. I don’t mind, but it’s sweet of you to ask. My boyfriend
has never even asked me that.”
Dan sensed sadness in her voice, but decided not to address it. Instead he
asked, “What do you think of this band?”
“They’re pretty good, for a country band that is.” she mentioned.
“I’m not particularly into country music either, but I like to two-step, so
I put up with it. You want to dance? It’ll be awhile before we get our
food.”
“Sure. Sounds like fun.”
Standing Dan extended a hand to her. Without thought she took it, letting
him escort her to the dance floor. When they found a space, he turned to
her. Dan slid an arm around her petite waist and her hand found his shoulder
as their bodies brushed into each other. After half an hour, they went back
to the table where Brittany guzzled her beer.
“It’s hot in here.”
“Well, maybe you’re just not used to dancing.” Dan mentioned.
“No, I am. I used to be a dancer. Next weekend I’m going back to school,
and we’re going to my favorite club. Come with me, and I’ll prove that I
have stamina.”
Dan’s mind raced with possibilities. “That’s a tempting offer. I might just
have to take you up on it.” he answered giving a sly grin.
“Great. My friends are going to jump all over you. They’ll have to draw
straws or something.”
Dan blushed. “You’re going to give me a big head if you keep talking like
that.”
“Daniel, you’re hot, and you know it.” Brittany mentioned with a wicked
smile.
“Okay. You can stop now.” sheepishly he mumbled with a deepened blush.
“Come on, Daniel. You know that girls swoon whenever you pass.”
“I could say something similar about you, Brittany. You have the senior
guys in a constant state of frenzied arousal. You act so sweet and innocent,
but you dress to kill. You work all your assets.”
“You think I do that to get guys?”
“No, not necessarily. I think it just shows that you have a wild streak in
you.”
Smiling coyly she answered, “Maybe I do.”
****************************************************************
The following Friday Brittany met Dan at his apartment after track
practice. “Just give me a few minutes to shower, and I’ll be ready. I
already packed.” He emerged a little later wearing khaki shorts and a knit
polo shirt that defined his upper body nicely. Running a hand through his
dark wet hair, he slipped on his ball cap. “Ready when you are.” he said
returning the smile she was giving.
When they arrived at Brittany’s best friend’s apartment, she smiled
brightly seeing Dan. “So these are the kind of men hanging out in Dallas?
Absolutely scrumptious.” Jen flirted giving Dan the eye, causing Dan to
flush the color of his ball cap.
“Jen, this is Daniel McKnight. Daniel, my best friend, Jen.”
“Nice to meet you, Daniel. Brittany hasn’t mentioned you before. She must
be hiding you from the rest of us.”
Brittany led Dan inside where she introduced everyone leaving her boyfriend
for last. As the two men stood face to face, Dan tired to be polite, but he
felt his heart twinge when he saw Brittany kiss her boyfriend deeply.
“Honey, this is Daniel. Daniel, John, my boyfriend.”
It was obvious to Dan that John was intimidated by his presence as he clung
tighter to Brittany’s waist, but John tried to cover it by offering him a
beer. An hour went by as Dan sat on the couch trying to gently fend off Jen
and watch Brittany cuddling with John in the far corner. One of the guys
suggested they play drinking games to lighten the party, so everyone sat in
a circle.
“Since Dan’s our guest, why don’t we let him pick the game.” John
suggested.
“All right. Let’s play ‘I Never’ and just to clarify, you must drink if you
have done it.” Everyone agreed, so Dan began. “Let’s go easy. I’ve never
kissed anyone in this room.”
The majority of people drank, and then it was Jen’s turn. “I’ve never had
sex with someone in this room.” Dan noticed that Brittany didn’t drink.
When it came to John, he said, “I’ve never given oral sex.” Everyone but
Brittany drank.
Moving to Brittany she stated, “I’ve never had a threesome.”
Dan lifted his beer to drink when he realized that he and Jen’s were the
only ones.
“Oh, Dan the Man.” Jen teased squeezing his thigh.
It came around to Dan for a second time, and he was determined to make
Brittany drink. “I’ve never had sex, period.” When everyone but Brittany
drank, he said, “We have someone too innocent to play with us.”
“Oh, don’t worry about that. I’m going to fix that problem.” John growled
possessively wrapping his arms around her.
Dan could see her roll her eyes before pushing him off and walking out to
the porch. John went after her, and the game continued, but Dan was too
preoccupied to concentrate. Instead he watched the fight occurring outside.
After a few minutes, John trampled through slamming the door behind him, and
Brittany sulked up the staircase.
“Well, that’s one way to ruin a party. Excuse me.” Jen stated going
upstairs.
People began to fizzle out leaving Dan alone on the couch. However Brittany
and Jen both returned after a few minutes and plopped down on either side of
him.
“I’m sorry for causing problems.” he apologized.
“It’s not your fault.” Brittany assured him. “How about we just stay here
and hang out? I’m not much in the mood for a party anymore.”
“That’s fine. Whatever you want.”
“Well, I’m going to go. See you two later. Have fun.” Jen said leaving them
alone.
Once they were alone, Dan joked, “I sure do know how to clear a room.”
“Don’t worry about it. No one blames you. John was the one who started
acting like an asshole.” Brittany turned on the tv and began flipping
channels. “You want to watch a movie? Jen has lots.” she suggested.
“Sure. That’s fine. You pick it.”
Standing she asked, “You want a another beer or something?”
“Only if you’re getting yourself one.”
Once the movie started Brittany folded her legs under her as she sat
closer to him. A moment passed in silence before Dan said, “I really am
sorry about the game. I was just trying to get you involved. I never
would’ve guessed you were a virgin.”
“Well, I never would’ve guessed you would’ve had a threesome.”
“It wasn’t that great really. It was more like my best friend and I sharing
this girl. Not the smartest thing I’ve ever done. We were drunk and
careless.”
“You mean unprotected?” she asked. He nodded slowly. “Daniel, that’s not
smart.”
“I know. I try to be better, but protection is not a man’s best friend.
That’s for sure.”
“That’s so stupid! You wonder why I’m a virgin? It’s because of guys like
you!”
“Hey, I’m clean! I get tested once a year, which is more than most guys can
say!” he yelled defensively. “Just because you’re mad at John doesn’t give
you the right to be snippy with me!” Huffing Brittany didn’t answer but
turned her attentions to the movie. “I’m sorry, Brittany. Come here.” Dan
whispered sliding an arm around her shoulders.
She leaned into his chest. “Why don’t we pull out the bed for you? That way
when you get tired you can just fall asleep.” Brittany suggested. They
pulled out the couch and made his bed before lying down together. As Dan
wrapped his arms around her, he could feel his heart beginning to race. Her
tiny body felt warm against his wherever they touched. Dan tried to remain
calm, knowing that he couldn’t flirt with another guy’s woman even if he was
a jerk. It didn’t help his hormones that Brittany was relaxing further into
his embrace, but he decided to just enjoy the feel of what he could never
have.
The next morning Brittany awoke to noise coming from the kitchen. Opening
her eyes, she saw Dan asleep next to her with his head nuzzled into her
shoulder. He was shirtless and had an arm around her waist. As Brittany
climbed from the bed, he mumbled Kristen’s name.
Brittany saw Jen in the kitchen. “Why didn’t you wake me when you got home
last night? John would kill me if he knew I spent the night with Dan.”
“You were so cute together wrapped in each other’s arms. I wanted you to
enjoy it. Thought you had a chance at getting lucky there.” Brittany smiled.
Jen grinned also. “Who’s Kristen?” she asked.
“I’m not sure. I know a Kristen, but it’s one of his runners. I don’t see
why he’d be calling her name.” mumbled Brittany.
“You like him, don’t you?”
Brittany shrugged. “Maybe a little, but he’s interested in someone else.
Besides I have John.”
“That’s why you spent the night in Dan’s bed. Makes sense to me.”
sarcastically Jen stated.
Brittany playfully hit Jen in the arm. “I’m going upstairs to shower. You
be good.”
Jen just gave a mischievous smile as she started for his bed as Brittany
went upstairs. Lying next to him, she stroked his back lightly. “Kristen.”
he mumbled turning over and opening his eyes.
“Jen, good morning.” he said confused. “Where’s Brittany?”
“In the shower. She left you all alone with defenseless little me.” she
teased running a hand along the contours of his chest. “May I ask you a
personal question, Dan?” she asked hooking her leg around his and pulling
herself on top of him. He nodded wondering where this conversation was
headed. “Are you seeing anyone?”
“Well, that’s kind of hard to answer. I’m not really dating, but there is
someone that I frequently-how should I say this?”
“Fuck?” Jen supplied.
“I wouldn’t put it that way, but essentially we do go to bed together a
lot. However we’re not really dating.”
“Why not?”
“She’s too young for me. She’s a great girl, but she’s young and
inexperienced.”
“How old is too young? 20?”
“Try 18.”
“Dan, she’s a child!”
“She’s a legal adult. What should I have done? She threw herself at me, and
I do find her attractive.”
“What’s she look like?”
“Actually, a lot like Brittany. Same sandy blonde hair, greenish hazel
eyes. They’re about the same build too. Brittany’s just shorter.”
“Do you think Brittany’s cute?” Jen inquired.
“I don’t know if I should answer that. You’re her best friend. You’ll tell
her what I say.”
“No, I won’t. It’ll stay between us. I’m just curious, because you said
this girl looks a lot like her.”
“Well, I’ll admit this much. Under different circumstances, Brittany is
someone I’d pursue, but we’re both involved.”
“You didn’t answer my question, Dan. Do you think she’s hot?”
“You swear you won’t tell her?” Jen nodded. “Brittany is so hot she
sizzles. Touching her is like touching a live wire. I get such an electric
shock that my heart actually skips a beat.” He sighed before continuing,
“But regardless of that, we’re just friends. She has John, and I have
someone as well.”
“By the way, what’s her name?”
“I can’t tell you. I don’t want Brittany to know.”
“It wouldn’t happen to be Kristen, would it?”
Giving her a quizzical stare, he asked, “How did you know that?”
“You called her name several times in your sleep, Dan.”
“Don’t tell, Brittany, please.”
“Why not?”
“I don’t want her to think less of me.”
“Why would she?”
“I’m in a position of authority over Kristen. I don’t want Brittany to
think I’m taking advantage of her. She’s one of Brittany’s students and one
of my runners.”
Just then they heard Brittany start down the stairs, so Jen rolled off of
him. “Why don’t you take a shower next, Dan?” she suggested. Once he had
gone upstairs, Jen looked at Brittany. “He’d date you in a heartbeat,
Britt.”
“What makes you say that? He’s involved with someone.”
“That doesn’t matter. She’s too young for him.”
“It’s Kristen, isn’t it?” Brittany inquired with disappointment. “Please
tell me it’s not.”
“You came to that conclusion on your own. I didn’t say anything. I swore I
wouldn’t. Why does it really matter anyway?”
“Kristen is a senior in high school. Dan is her track coach. I can’t
believe he’d do this.”
“He says she came on to him.”
“Well, I’m sure that’s probably true. I’ve seen her be quite the little
vixen to gain his attention! Regardless he could be fired for that! There he
goes acting like every other male I’ve ever known! I swear, men can’t keep
their flies zipped up and in control! Is that all they ever truly want?” Her
voice was low and serious.
“Britt, I think you’re more upset that it’s not you. You’re attracted to
him. Just admit it. Most men have to be taught how to behave like a good
man. He’s a good, teachable one, and with a little direction, he’d be a
great one. Dan is a kind and caring man, not to mention sexy, and he wants
you.”
“Yeah, he just wants to get me in bed, like every other man.”
“I don’t think so. He never said anything about sex. I think he genuinely
likes you. I also think he knows Kristen was a mistake. Give the guy a
break.” Brittany just shrugged not believing Jen entirely.
That morning the three of them got together with John. He was still being
rude, so Brittany was glad he didn’t go dancing with the group that night.
At the club Dan spent the first part of the evening hovering around the bar
drinking and talking with any girl that happened to be around him.
“I wonder what’s wrong with Daniel.” Brittany stated as she danced with
some of her girl friends.
“Well, you could go ask him, or I will.” Jen mentioned.
“Why don’t you go?” suggested Brittany.
Dan saw Jen coming toward him. She was being extremely direct and held his
gaze until she got to him. Without a word, she held out her hand. Dan
excused himself from his company and let Jen lead him into a separate room
of the club. It had black lighting and smelled of sweat and sex. Dan took a
seat in a vacant chair, and Jen straddled his legs facing him. “So, what’s
wrong?” she asked.
“Nothing.”
“Oh, come on. Something’s on your mind.”
“Well, if you must know, I’d really like to get laid, but I’d feel bad
about doing it with Kristen at home doting on me.”
“A guy with a conscience, what a novelty. Look Dan, I think you know
Kristen was a mistake. That’s why you feel bad. Why don’t you just make up
your mind to end it with her when you get back? That way you can get laid
without the guilt.” Dan gave a half-hearted nod. “Now, tell me. Do you have
any prospects for tonight?”
“A few.” he answered wrapping his arms around her waist. “But none as
appealing as what I have in my lap.”
Smirking Jen answered, “Oh really? I thought you’d never come to your
senses.” Leaning into each other, their mouths met lustfully. “Of course, we
can’t tell Brittany.” Jen mentioned.
“Why not? She brought me along so I could hook up with one of her friends.”
“Well, I just don’t want her to know. Okay?”
“All right. I won’t say anything.”
“Good. Then tonight after she goes to bed, we can have a little fun.”
When they got home that evening, Dan crashed on the couch without even
bothering to pull it out while Jen and Brittany went upstairs. As Dan laid
there, he wondered if Jen would sneak back down like she had promised. He
was just about to give up and fall asleep when he heard movement on the
staircase. “Dan, you still awake?” Jen asked.
“Yeah.” he whispered.
“Sorry. I wanted to make sure she was really asleep.” she explained
crawling on top of him and kissing him deeply.
Dan awoke the next morning to a small shriek. He saw Brittany standing
there with a crimson face. “What’s wrong?” he asked disoriented.
Pointing to the ground, she said, “There’s a used condom on the floor.
That’s disgusting, Daniel. Do I even want to know why that’s there?”
“Probably not.” he answered picking it up. He started to stand but
remembering that he was naked, he wrapped the sheet around his waist.
Walking into the kitchen, he disposed of the condom and its wrapper. Going
back to the couch he sat pulling Brittany down next to him.
Putting her head on his shoulder, she mentioned, “You need a shower. You
smell like the club with all that smoke and sweat. You have quite the facial
hair too.”
“What do you expect? Friday morning was the last time I shaved. It’s
Sunday.”
“I like you better without your stubble.” she stated touching his jaw.
“I’ll remember that.” he answered wrapping an arm around her and beginning
to doze off again. After a few minutes though, he opened his eyes. “Is Jen
still asleep?” he asked. Brittany nodded. “I’m going to wake her up.” Dan
said standing.
Going up to her room, Dan dropped his sheet and climbed into bed with her,
and started kissing her neck lightly. She giggled before opening her eyes.
“Morning, sexy.” she whispered as their mouths met. They kissed intently for
a few minutes before Dan rolled on top of her.
“Oh my. Someone is aroused this morning.” she whispered. He nodded
beginning to enter her. “Oh, we shouldn’t do this. Brittany’s awake.”
breathlessly Jen mentioned as he began to gently thrust.
“Then we’ll make it quick. She’ll never know.” he whispered kissing her
neck. After a few minutes Jen’s body began responding to him as she started moaning loudly.
He could feel her contracting around him, but just then she screamed,
“Shit!”
“What’s wrong? Am I hurting you?” Dan asked having not heard the door open.
He saw Jen’s eyes looking past his shoulder, so he turned. He saw the
shocked, embarrassed look on Brittany’s face, so he withdrew without a word.
“I’m going to go take a shower.” he feebly stated wrapping his sheet around
him and walking into the bathroom.
“Well, that was quite a show.” Brittany stated feeling tears threaten, but
she held them back knowing she had no right to the hurt she felt.
“Britt, you have John. I was just trying to have a little excitement. Dan
wanted some action so did I. I even convinced him to break things off with
Kristen I think. That would leave him available if you ever did want him.”
Brittany shook her head. “I don’t know. I wouldn’t stand a chance with
Daniel. He needs a woman to cater to his desires, and I wouldn’t. He can’t
seem to keep his pants on.”
Jen nodded. “Well, you’re missing out. He’s incredible.” Jen mentioned.
Brittany pretended not to be interested. “Brittany, if you don’t get wet
looking at that man, I’m worried about you. It either means you’re a lesbian
or you’re dead, and I know you’re not a lesbian.”
Brittany laughed at Jen’s joke. “Okay, I’ll admit that I’m curious about
him.”
Grinning Jen asked, “What do you want to know?”
The ride home that afternoon was silent. Dan’s mind was racing. He was
regretting sleeping with Jen, but he didn’t feel as guilty as he thought he
should for cheating on Kristen. He felt bad because of the look on
Brittany’s face when she walked in on them.
Meanwhile Brittany was thinking about him. Her growing attraction was only
surpassed by her disappointment she felt over his sexual escapades,
especially with Kristen. When they got to his apartment, he invited her in.
She declined saying, “You have someone else who you should be spending some
time with. I’m sure you have some explaining to do to her.”
Dan dropped his head. “Yes, I suppose I do. I’ll see you at school
tomorrow.”
Two weeks later Dan was just overlooking the lunch crowd when Shelby
approached him. “Coach, can I talk to you for a minute?”
“Yeah, sure. What’s up?”
“I kind of meant in private.”
They walked out into the empty hallway. “What’s going on, Shelby? Something
wrong?”
“I’ve been asked by one of the runners to ask you for advice. She doesn’t
want you to know who she is, though.”
“Why not?”
“She doesn’t want to be kicked off the team.”
“Why would I kick her off the team?”
“Well, she thinks she might be pregnant, and she doesn’t know what to do.”
“And she wants my advice? Why?”
“Because it’s an older guy. He’s not in high school. She wants an older
male perspective.”
Dan took a deep breath. “I really can’t give advice, Shelby. I can tell you
my opinion, but by no means is it advice. You understand?” She nodded. “Has
she told the father?”
“She doesn’t know if she wants to.”
“Does she want to go to college?” Shelby nodded. “Okay, then it’s my
opinion, not my advice, that she shouldn’t keep it.”
“Do you mean have an abortion?”
“Shelby, I didn’t say that. Listen, if she has that baby and keeps it, her
future is going to be mighty difficult. Her child will be a burden instead
of a pleasure as children should be. It is my opinion that she is too young
to be a parent. That’s all I’m going to say, Shelby. I’ve already said too
much. Just remember I didn’t give you advice. Okay?”
The rest of the day Dan wondered who Shelby could be talking about. He was
just watching practice that day when he heard Brittany’s voice call his
name. He turned. She was pale and shaking slightly. Instantly embracing her,
he asked, “Honey, what’s wrong?”
“I need to talk to you right now. Can we go sit somewhere?”
Dan escorted her to the bleachers. Taking her hands, Dan said, “You can
tell me anything, Brittany. What’s wrong? Did John hurt you?”
“No, I’m fine. It’s you I’m worried about.”
“Why?”
“Daniel, I care about you a lot, and that’s why I’m telling you this. Today
I confiscated a note during Shelby and Kristen’s physics class. I don’t
normally read notes I take up, but today I did.”
“Let me guess. Shelby’s pregnant and was telling Kristen about the
conversation she and I had.”
“Well, not exactly. Actually, it’s Kristen who is pregnant, and Shelby said
you told her to have an abortion. You didn’t say that, did you?”
Dan’s face matched Brittany’s. “Oh, God. What have I done?” he mumbled.
“Daniel, tell me the truth. Is it really possible for you to be the
father?” Dan nodded slowly. Brittany showed obvious disappointment, but
pulled him into a hug. “What are you going to do?” she asked.
“I don’t know. I have to talk to her. I still haven’t told her about Jen.
This is not going to be easy.”
“I’m here if you need me.” Brittany whispered combing through his hair
gently.
Dan looked at her. His feelings hit him all at once. “Thank you for being
here, Brittany.” he said touching her cheek. He wanted to kiss her, but
knowing it was neither the time nor place, he kissed her forehead before
standing.
She stood taking his hands. “You going to be all right?”
“I’ve gotten myself into a real jam this time.”
“Yes, you have, but I’m not going to lecture you. You don’t need that.”
“I appreciate it. I know I deserve one. I know you disapprove of my sexual
escapades.”
“Yes, I do, but maybe now you’ll keep your pants on more often from this
experience. However, I wish you didn’t have to learn that this way. I hope
to God Kristen isn’t pregnant.”
“So do I.” he mumbled embracing her.
On Friday evening Dan invited Kristen over to his place. When she arrived
it was obvious she wasn’t in a good mood. “Thank you for coming over. I
needed to talk to you.”
“I’m not staying long! I’ve had about enough of your shit, Daniel! I just
want to hear you admit it! You’re cheating on me! If that wasn’t bad enough,
you actually told Shelby I should have an abortion!”
“First of all, I never told Shelby you should have an abortion.”
“I want an honest opinion, not what you think I want to hear! Do you think
I should have an abortion? Is that how you really feel?”
“I don’t know how I feel about this. I’m fully prepared to accept
responsibility for this child, but as far as how I feel about it, I don’t
know. ”
“Not that I really care about your feelings! You sure as hell don’t care
about mine!” she screamed.
“That’s not true! I care about your feelings, Kristen!”
“Then why are you cheating on me with Brittany Saxton?”
“Brittany and I are friends. I’m not seeing her. However since we’re on
this subject, I do have a confession to make about the weekend I went away
with her. I made a mistake, Kristen. I had sex with a woman I met down
there.”
“I knew it! I can’t believe I trusted you, Daniel!” she yelled in tears.
Opening the door she began to bound down the cement stairs.
“Kristen, wait!” Dan called going after her. He saw her miss a stair and
crash onto the landing. “Kristen, are you okay?” he asked concerned coming
to her and kneeling. She was curled up in a ball holding her ankle. “Let me
see it.” Dan said.
It was sprained badly. Scooping her up, Dan took her back to his apartment.
He sat her on the couch. She was holding her mid section and wincing. “Dan,”
she breathlessly said. “I think I need to go to the hospital. Something’s
wrong.”
Dan thought the worst but said, “Okay, I’ll take you. Just try to relax.”
“Call Shelby. I want her to meet us there.”
Dan anxiously waited while Kristen was in with the doctor with Shelby.
Finally Shelby appeared and stared at him.
“How is she?” tentatively he asked.
“She has a sprained ankle.” she stated.
“Anything else?”
“She was pregnant, but due to the fall, she miscarried.”
“Oh, God. I need to see her.”
“She doesn’t want to see you, Dan. She asked me to come out here and send
you away. She doesn’t want to be anywhere around you. I’m going to take her
home.”
Dan drove home feeling with an all-consuming emptiness. Later that night he
got a call from Brittany. “What’s wrong? You sound terrible.” she stated.
“Kristen miscarried.” he mumbled.
“Oh, Daniel. You want me to come over?”
“Please. She refuses to see me, and I don’t want to be alone.”
“All right. I’ll be right there.” When Brittany arrived she could tell he
had been crying. She sat him on the couch. “You want to tell me what
happened?”
Dan related the events to Brittany. “I feel as if I’ve lost a part of
myself.”
“I’m sorry you feel that way. Is there anything I can do?”
Dan leaned into her, so she would embrace him. “Thank you for being here.”
“No problem. What are friends for?”
“You want to go get some dinner and go to a movie or something?”
“Okay. I’m not really dressed, though.”
Dan surveyed her outfit of white tank top, jeans, and tennis shoes. “You
look great, but you can borrow a shirt or something if you want.”
Standing Dan took Brittany into his bedroom. She began to look through his
shirts, pulling out a blue button down. Dan watched her slip it on and
simply tie it around her waist instead of buttoning it. She pulled her
blonde hair from under the collar fluffing it slightly. Dan extended a hand
to her, smiling. “Ready?” Brittany took his hand, and their fingers
interlocked.
Over dinner Brittany watched Dan consume a cheeseburger while she picked at
her pasta. “You not hungry?” he asked between bites.
“I was just thinking about Kristen.”
“What about her?”
“I feel sorry for her. She’s eighteen. She shouldn’t have to be going
through this. She’s in love with you, even gave herself to you. It’s got to
be difficult to have the one you love cheat on you, especially being
pregnant with their child.”
“Not exactly my finest moment.” Dan mumbled.
“I’d say not. Did you even care about her?”
“Yes, I care about her, but I’m not in love with her. This whole thing
gives me a new prospective .”
“How so?”
“I have to be more careful and use my brain a little more often instead of
other anatomy.”
“I’d have to agree with that.”
Dan heard the lecturing tone in her voice. Becoming defensive Dan folded
his arms across his chest. “Look Brittany, I know you probably think less of
me for this disaster, but I’d appreciate it if you’d let me off the hook
here. I was wrong. I admit it, and that’s all I can do at this point.
Please, can we not dwell on the biggest mistake of my life?”
Brittany nodded slowly looking out the window. As the meal came to a close,
Dan inquired, “Would you mind if we just rented a movie? I’m feeling tired.”
Once back at the apartment Dan convinced her to watch the movies in his
bedroom. As Brittany sat on his bed, she looked at the closed bathroom door
and wondered what he was doing in there. When he opened it, he was only in a
grey t-shirt and green striped boxers. He saw her eyes widen.
“You don’t mind that I put my pajamas on do you?” She shook her head. “Do
you want to change into something more comfortable? I’ve got shirts and
shorts. You’re more than welcome.”
Brittany’s mind told her not to, but her emotions said otherwise. Knowing
she could trust him, she said, “Thanks. What can I wear?”
“Anything you want.”
Dan lounged on his bed as he watched her rummage through his dresser. She
pulled out a pair of plaid flannel boxers before excusing herself to the
bathroom. Dan got under the covers as he waited for her. She stood in the
doorway of the bathroom for a moment after changing. Her heart raced at the
thought of what she was about to do. She knew John would be angry if he knew
she was about to get in bed with another man. Coming to the bed she climbed
in next to him nonchalantly. Dan wanted to make a move, but decided against
it as he turned toward the movie. They watched the first in silence, but
during the second, they both were getting tired. Burrowing further into the
covers, they both ended up lying next to each other in the darkness.
“You tired of the movie?” Dan asked. Brittany mumbled. Sensing she was
asleep, Dan turned it off. He touched his bare foot to hers to see if she
really was sleeping. She didn’t respond. Putting a hand on her shoulder, he
whispered her name. She mumbled again incoherently pulling his hand from her
shoulder and wrapping it around her waist.
The next morning Brittany awoke to a ringing phone and answered it without
thought.
“May I speak with my son please?” a female voice asked with annoyed
surprise.
“Excuse me?” Brittany inquired beginning to wake fully.
“May I speak with Daniel? This is his mother.”
Nudging him Brittany whispered, “Daniel, it’s your mom. Wake up.” Dan took
the phone from her.
“Daniel Ethan McKnight, who was that?”
“A friend of mine.” he mumbled.
“A friend, Daniel? A female friend sleeping in your bed?” sarcastically his
mother said.
“Mother, I’m twenty-three years old. I’m on my own. I can decide who sleeps
in my bed. Now I said she was a friend, so just let it lie.”
“Fine. Your father’s 50th birthday is on Saturday, and we’re having a
party. Can you make it out here next weekend?”
“Yeah, I can make it.”
“Great. Why don’t you bring your friend? I want to meet her.”
“We’ll see. If that’s all I’m going back to sleep now.”
“Fine. We’ll see you Saturday.”
Dan could tell by his mother’s voice that she didn’t believe him. Hanging
up the phone, he asked, “You want to go to my dad’s birthday party with me?
It’s all their friends, and I’m going to be bored out of my mind if you
don’t.”
“Well, we can’t have that now, can we? I guess I have no choice. When is
it?”
Coming to a stop in the driveway, Brittany put her sunglasses on top of her
head to hold her hair back. “Wow. This is some place.”
“Yeah. It’s pretty cool, I guess. They just moved in a year ago.”
“What’s your dad do?”
“Well, he used to play football for the Dallas Cowboys, but when it got
injured he started doing their marketing.”
Going into the house, they saw a guy that looked just like Dan with the
exception that he had dyed red hair. “Hey, Joe.” Dan said.
“Dan, hey. How are you brother?” he asked hugging him. “Who’s your
friend?”
“This is Brittany Saxton. Brittany, this is my little brother, Joseph.”
“Not that little, only by 12 minutes.” he mentioned grinning at Brittany as
they shook hands.
“Where’s sis? She coming?” Daniel inquired as they continued into the
family room.
They saw an older gentleman in a wheelchair. He smiled brightly. “Daniel.”
Dan leaned down and hugged him. “Hey, Pop. Happy birthday.”
“So nice of you to make it, and this time you have a beautiful companion.”
Dan introduced them before hearing his mother’s voice say, “Daniel Ethan.”
They turned to see a tall, thin frosted blonde. “Hello, mother.” he said
hugging her half heartedly. “Let me introduce you to my friend, Brittany
Saxton. This is my mother, Laura.”
“You’re just in time for lunch. We’re having it in the sunroom, so the cook
can prepare for dinner tonight.”
“When’s Becca getting in?” Daniel asked as they proceeded into the sunroom.
“She’ll be here at 2:00. There was some party she just had to go to last
night.” his mother mentioned.
“Who’s Becca?” Brittany asked.
“My baby sister, Rebecca. She’s a sophomore at Texas Tech.”
After lunch Dan went out to the car to get their bags. Coming into the
house he asked where Brittany was staying. “Well, I had planned for her to
stay with Becca in the green room. That is unless...”
“Unless what?” Dan asked sensing where this was heading.
“Unless you two would prefer to continue your sinful habit of sleeping
together.”
“Mother, Brittany and I are just friends.”
“Sure, Daniel. I just can’t believe you’d bring another black woman into
this house after Victoria. You know I disapprove.”
“Excuse me? Brittany is my friend, and the color of her skin shouldn’t
matter.”
Ignoring his statement she continued, “Well, at least you’re getting into
half breeds now. She’s not as black as Victoria was, thank God.”
Slamming the bags down, Dan tensed his jaw. “I swear to God, if you say
another word about Victoria I will walk out of this house right now and
never return!”
“I just worry about you, Daniel. Black woman are trouble. I remember the
scandal Victoria caused, saying you were the father of that baby. It took a
lot of time and money to prove that you weren’t. I’m concerned about your
name.”
“No, you’re concerned about your name!” Dan screamed storming off. Going
into his room, he opened his old desk drawer taking out a picture he had of
he and Victoria. Gazing at it as he thought about her fondly.
“Daniel,” he heard Brittany’s voice and turned. She saw his troubled face.
“You okay? I heard yelling.”
He nodded. “My mother and I were just fighting again. We don’t really get
along.”
“May I ask why?” Dan handed her the picture. “Is that you? Who’s that with
you? She’s beautiful.”
Dan nodded. “That was my high school sweetheart, Victoria.”
“She looks pregnant in this picture.”
“Four months actually.”
“Is there a story there?”
“Yes, but I really don’t want to talk about it right now.”
“Okay, we don’t have to.”
“Let’s go for a swim. The pool’s heated.” he stated changing the subject.
Joe joined them for a swim, and the guys took turns flirting with Brittany
a bit, but Joe was definitely coming on stronger than Dan. Dan could see
Brittany’s uneasiness, so he said, “Sorry Joe, she’s spoken for. Lay off
there, buddy.”
“I might be spoken for, but not by you, Daniel. I can handle myself.” she
snipped. Turning to Joe she said, “You’re a nice guy, but I’m currently
involved with someone.”
“Hey, no hard feelings. If only Dan and I could be so lucky to be with a
gorgeous girl like you. Neither of us have been, with maybe the exception of
Victoria.”
“You’ve never even been with a girl.” smirked Dan splashing Joe.
Splashing back he answered, “Details, just don’t tell Mom that.”
Brittany looked at him with confusion. “I don’t understand.”
“Actually, Brittany, it’s very simple. I have a straight image to keep up
around my mother. She couldn’t handle it if she knew I was a flaming fag. I
have to at least pretend I’m interested in girls.”
Brittany smiled as she leaned into his mouth. Kissing him softly she asked,
“That really does nothing for you?”
“Hey, if that is what it takes to get a kiss around here, I’ll be gay.” Dan
joked.
“Yeah, right, Mr. Quarterback, captain of the football team, state champion
in three sports jock. The day you mount a man is the day I’ll willingly
sleep with a woman.”
“Gross! Don’t say things like that. I don’t like that image.” Dan cringed.
“The only thing you did more of in high school than screw was play sports.”
“Do you mind?” Dan inquired.
“Oh, I’m sure Brittany doesn’t care. Actually, Brittany, it was mainly
Victoria. The two of them were going at it day and night. Dan was a faithful
guy to her. Victoria was all he ever talked about. I really think they’d be
married by now with little ones if things hadn’t turned out so tragically.”
“I don’t really want to discuss this.” Dan mentioned getting out of the
pool.
“Then we won’t.” Brittany assured him.
Dan went into the house and showered. Victoria was all he was thinking
about. Coming back to face his mother brought up the feelings had long
wanted to forget. Going back out to the pool dressed, he said, “I have
somewhere to go. You can come with me or stay here. It’s up to you. I’ll be
gone awhile.”
“I’ll come with you. Just let me change.” Brittany stated sensing that he
needed her company.
Brittany didn’t ask where they were going as they drove silently. She only
gave him a quizzical glance as they turned into an old cemetery. She
followed him through the headstones until he came to a stop dropping to his
knees. Brittany stood behind touching his shoulders. She read the name of
Victoria and the one next to her of an infant named Ethan. “Do you want me
to leave you alone?” she asked quietly. Dan shook his head. “Do you want to
tell me what happened?”
“It’s a complicated story.”
“Well, we have all day. Obviously she means a lot to you. She was your
girlfriend, and I’m guessing by Ethan’s name that he was named after you. Is
he your son?”
“I wish he was, and so did Victoria, but he’s not. He actually belongs to
someone else. Someone who didn’t give a damn about Victoria or her feelings
for me.”
“How’s that? I thought you two were in love and all.”
“I should start from the beginning. Victoria and I started seeing each
other when we were juniors, and we started quite a controversy. No one liked
the quarterback dating a black girl. It didn’t matter that she was brilliant
or beautiful. To them she was just black and therefore wrong for me.
Friends, coaches, teachers, and even my own mother kept trying to convince
me not to date her, but I guess that’s rural Texas for you. Anyway, we
started sleeping together at the beginning of our senior year, and we were
just more affectionate in general in public, which stirred more hatred
toward her. I remember one time she came onto the field after a football
game, and we kissed in front of everyone. I think that was the last straw
with the community. Victoria began being harassed. Of course no one ever
said anything to me except that I shouldn’t date her. Victoria never even
told me until a much later date. Well, over Christmas break that year, I
went to see colleges, so I wasn’t around much. In late February I started
noticing that she was putting on weight, and I tried to subtly ask about it.
Our sex life had deteriorated into nothing since I came back from Christmas,
and she seemed really depressed, so I thought she was unhappy with me. Well,
she just broke down in tears. She started telling me things that I never
knew. It turned out that during Christmas break things were at their worst.
A group of guys from the baseball team thought it would be fun to burn a
cross on her lawn. Well, Victoria snapped. She actually went outside and
began yelling at them. What she didn’t know was that they were drunk and one
of them had a gun. They grabbed her and threw her into the car.” Dan stopped
and took several long breaths. Brittany knelt down beside him sensing the
worst yet to come. “They took her out into the middle of nowhere, beat her
and then took turns raping her. Then they just left her there to die. She
could’ve been killed, but being the rock of strength that my baby was, she
survived but never told me until February. She confided in me that the baby
wasn’t mine, and I was crushed. I tried to convince her to press charges,
but they got off. Anyway, it was my idea to tell people the baby was mine. I
didn’t want them to have the satisfaction of knowing they had done that.”
“That was a very honorable thing to do, Daniel.”
“Well, it upset my mother greatly. She and Victoria began to have fights.
Underneath it all, my mother is just as racist as the guys who had done this
horrible thing. Well, Ethan was born in late August right before I went off
to college. Victoria legally claimed that I was the father, because that’s
what I wanted. My mother found out though that Ethan really wasn’t mine and
told Victoria off. She had brought Ethan over to visit, and my mother yelled
at her, called her all sorts of rude things and insinuated things about
Victoria that weren’t true. Then she threw her out of the house. That was
the last time I saw them. A few hours later I got the call from her mother.
She and Ethan had died in a car accident on the way home from my house.”
“Oh, that’s so sad.” Brittany whispered blotting her wet eyes. “You blame
your mother, don’t you?”
“Yes, I do. If she had just had a little compassion, Victoria never
would’ve run off. Even more if she had just thought about my happiness
instead of the family name, Victoria and Ethan would be alive. Even today if
I date a girl with skin a little too dark, she gets all worked up.”
“Well, I guess it’s a good thing you’re not dating me then.”
“You know, I suspected you were part black. Either that or you faked baked
year round.”
“Actually, I’m only a quarter. My father’s mother is Jamaican. I actually
have darker skin my father, though.”
“I’m sure my mother just thinks you’re a faked baked Barbie.” he lied.
“That’s what she wants me to date. She doesn’t believe we’re just friends.”
“I guess it’s a good thing she doesn’t know about Kristen or the
miscarriage.”
“Yeah, she wouldn’t really be happy, but Kristen is about as Barbie as they
come.”
“I’m glad you said it and not me.” Brittany stated with a smile.
“Come on. I want to visit Victoria’s parents on the way home.”
They got back to the house just before the 6:00 to dress for the party.
Guests began arriving around 7:00, and Dan was busy playing a gracious host
and son when he spotted Brittany making her entrance. He stopped in
mid-sentence and just stared at her. When their eyes met, he smiled. She
came to him taking his extended hand. He leaned in kissing her cheek. “You
look fabulous.” he complimented.
“Yes, that dress is very flattering, Brittany. Where did you get it?” Joe
asked.
Later that evening Brittany found herself talking with Becca. “So, are you
as interested in my brother as he is in you?” she bluntly inquired.
“Excuse me? Daniel’s not interested in me.”
“Oh but he is. I can tell. It’s not just wanting to get you in bed interest
either. The only other woman I’ve ever seen him be like this with is
Victoria. I guess you know all about her.”
Brittany nodded. “But he’s never even hinted at it. Trust me. I’ve been
looking.”
“Really? Well, I’ll tell you why you’re not seeing anything. You’re
involved with someone else. When Dan is truly into a girl, he respects her
position completely. He’ll never make a move on you as long as you’re with
this other guy. He’ll just be your friend and adore you from afar.”
“How do you know all this?”
“Because I saw him do it with Victoria. He loved her long before they ever
started dating. If you want something to happen, you have to make yourself
available.”
“I don’t know. I guess I’m a little scared of what he’d expect from me. He
has quite a reputation.”
“Well, he does bed a lot of women. That is true, but I know my brother. All
he truly expects is that a woman be honest with him and herself. All Daniel
wants out of life is to be able to love a woman the way he loved Victoria.”
“That’s an awfully big expectation.”
“I don’t think so. All Victoria ever did was open his heart up to his
softer side. He’s not all sports and brawn. He’s actually sensitive and
caring, but he’s afraid to let that show. He stopped showing it when
Victoria died. He turned into what he is now, a man that doesn’t really care
about much at all. I haven’t seen him give another human as much genuine
interest as I’ve seen him give you.”
“Well, maybe I can open up his heart again.” Brittany stated with hope.
“I hope so. I miss that Daniel.”
When the party was over that night, Brittany and Dan found themselves
talking in his room. She kept thinking about her conversation with Becca.
Moving to the bed, Brittany laid next to him taking his hand. They just
looked in each others eyes in silence. She could feel herself drowning in
his dark green eyes. Reaching out she stroked his hair above his ear before
caressing his jaw. “You’re a caring man, Daniel. I’m sorry you’ve been
through so much pain. You don’t deserve it.”
“Thank you for being here and listening.” he whispered.
“Thank you for opening up to me. That means a lot.”
“We should probably go to sleep. It’s late.” he mentioned feeling nervous.
“Daniel, I’d like to stay here if you don’t mind.” Brittany heard herself
say. As soon as it was out there, she feared she had said too much, but his
shy smiled assured her.
“I don’t mind.” he answered.
They both changed before turning out the lights. Being unusually bold,
Brittany brushed up against him. “Hold me.” she whispered. Dan wrapped his
arm around her, and she put her head on his bare chest. She could feel his
heart beating rapidly, but he never did a thing except stroke her hair
lightly.
The following morning they awoke to Joe jumping in bed with them, squeezing
Brittany in the middle. “So, Brittany, I bet you never thought you’d be in
bed with two sexy men at once, did you?” Joe asked wrapping his arm around
her waist next to Dan’s.
Brittany blushed and laughed. “No, I didn’t. John would be so pissed if he
knew about this.”
“Who’s John?” Joe inquired.
“My boyfriend but not for much longer.”
“You going to break up with him?”
“Yes, I am. It’s past time. I’ve wanted to do it for awhile now.”
“I knew it. I knew once I charmed my way into your bed you’d break up with
him. Face it. You’re in love with me.” Joe teased.
“That’s right I am. I can’t live without you, Joseph.” Brittany and Joe
both laughed.
Just then their mother walked passed the open door. “What’s going on in
here?” she asked sternly.
“Oh, Brittany is just giving Dan and me our morning workout.”
“Joseph Erwin, that is not funny or proper! Everyone out of that bed now!”
“I was just kidding, Mom. Lighten up.”
Chapter 2
The next Friday morning there was a pep rally for the spring sports teams.
Being the track coach, Dan had to introduce his team. When he took the
microphone and walked to center court, there was a thunder of shrills from
the female students.
“In case some of you don’t know, I’m Coach McKnight, the track coach. I
know I’m supposed to introduce the team, but before I do that I have
something to say. The Valentine’s Day sady hawkins dance is coming up next
weekend, and I’m here to tell you that I don’t have a date. I was hoping
that I would be asked, but since I haven’t been, I’d like to drop a hint
right now. How many of you know Ms. Saxton the physics teacher?” There was
male dominated hollering. “All right. I hear all of you. All I can say is
forget it guys. She’s too old for you. Anyway, I was just dropping her a
little hint that I’m still available.” There was more hollering, but Dan
realized it wasn’t for him as the crowd’s attention moved to something
coming up behind him. He turned to see Brittany. “Well, Ms. Saxton, what a
surprise. I was just talking about you.”
“Oh really. Well, Coach McKnight, I was just thinking about you. I heard a
rumor that you were still free for the dance, so I thought I’d come see if
you’d like to go with me.”
“Why I’d love to. I thought you’d never ask.” he said smiling before they
hugged. The crowd started chanting for them to kiss. An awkward glance
passed between them before Dan smiled. Turning to the crowd, he said, “This
is a G rated show guys and gals. No hanky panky here.” Brittany sighed in
obvious relief. Waving to the crowd, she began to walk away. “There she
goes, the oh so lovely Ms. Saxton. Now shall I introduce the team?”
Dan saw her at lunch that day. “Thanks for playing along with me this
morning.” he said.
“It was fun. I enjoyed it. Of course there will be rumors now about us
dating.”
“I know, but it’s a lot better than rumors about Kristen and me.”
“This is true. She was not happy with today’s performance. She was
obviously upset by it, Daniel.”
“She’ll get over it. She’s just a kid. So, did you break up with John yet?”
he asked changing the subject.
“No. He’s coming up this weekend. I wanted to do it in person. After a year
I think he deserves that much.”
Dan nodded. “I understand. If you need anything, call me.”
“I will, but everything will be fine. I think he suspects this is coming,
so I’m sure we’ll talk about it as soon as he gets here, and then he’ll
leave.”
“All right, but if you need me, you can just call.”
“I’ll probably call you tomorrow after he leaves.”
Late Saturday evening Dan was just grading papers when there was a knock at
his door. Opening it he saw Brittany with tears streaming down her face. Dan
couldn’t help but notice how sexy she looked though, even in tears. She was
wearing a white cotton shirt with a grey sweater and black skirt. Her hair
was done in two braids. The first thing that came to Dan’s mind was Catholic
school girl uniform. Instead of smiling though, he embraced her asking with
concern, “Did you have a rough time with John?” She nodded. “Well, come sit
down. It’ll be all right. Why don’t you tell me about it?”
“It’s over. I’m glad about it, but I’ve never seen him like that. He was
throwing things in my apartment and screaming. I was frightened, because he
was being so unpredictable.”
“Why didn’t you call me? I would’ve come over.”
“I know, and that’s why I didn’t. I might only be a twenty-two year old
woman, but I’m a strong woman. I can hold me own.”
Dan nodded with a smile. Kissing her forehead, he stated, “That you are.”
She smiled up at him as he brushed her tears off her cheeks. “Dry those
pretty eyes.” he said touching her under the chin. “Let me make you feel
better. Why don’t I make you a nice dinner and then we can go for a walk or
something?”
“That sounds nice. Thank you.”
“Great. Then you just relax here on the couch while I make dinner.”
Once dinner was over Dan took her to a park close to his place where they
walked around the lake slowly. A full moon was casting long shadows across
the water. As they walked Brittany took hold of his hand. She slowed her
pace until they came to a stop. They looked at each other quietly for a
moment. Deciding to be brave, Brittany stepped closer to him and put a hand
on his chest. She slid the other around his back.
“Daniel, I just want to thank you for this wonderful night. You always know
how to make me feel special. You’re a caring man.”
“You are a special woman, Brittany, and one of the most caring I’ve ever
known. You’ve helped me through some difficult things and listened with an
open heart. This is the least I could do for you. You deserve so much more.
You deserve a man that can make you happy.”
Brittany wanted him to kiss her desperately, but it didn’t appear that he
would, so swallowing her nerves, she leaned up to his mouth as she pulled
his head down into her. As their lips met, Dan felt a jolt pass through his
body. When she pulled away, she saw his mouth fall open. “Daniel, I’m sorry.
I’ve never done that before. I don’t know what came over me.”
“I, uh, I, I didn’t, I didn’t mind.” he fumbled, but then he smiled. “May I
make a confession? I’ve actually wanted that for weeks.”
“So did I. I thank you for respecting me and my relationship with John,
especially since you knew I was unhappy. Not all men would have that
patience.”
“Brittany, I care about you deeply. I haven’t felt like this in years. I
enjoy being your friend, but I guess I’ve always wanted something more. Is
that too much to ask for right now?”
Brittany shook her head. “I’d like that. I don’t have to tell you that I’m
inexperienced with these things. I have boundaries, but I also have
confidence that you will respect them. I’ll admit that I enjoy sleeping with
you. Your arms are so safe. I would hate to lose that now that things are
out in the open. Is that too much to ask for from you?”
“No, it’s not. Brittany, you don’t have to worry. I would never do anything
that you didn’t want me to. Your comfort is of upmost importance to me. I
find great pleasure in holding you. I would never want to jeopardize that.”
“I believe you.” she said resting her head against his chest.
“Come on. Let’s go home.” he suggested taking her hand. As they began to
walk back to the apartment he asked, “May I comment on your outfit tonight?”
She nodded. “You own a lot of sensual clothes, but by far this is the
sexiest thing I’ve seen you in.”
“Why’s that?”
“Call it a Catholic school girl fantasy with cute little braids included.”
he stated flipping one of her braids off her shoulder.
“Well, you like, huh? Actually this is a little more conservative than I
usually wear it. Most of the time I just tie the shirt, but it’s too cold
for that.”
Dan groaned at the image. “Do you even know how incredibly sexy you are?
You wonder why men stare. You don’t just show your stuff. You flaunt it.”
“Is that a bad thing?”
“No. I just think it’s ironic. I mean men think sex when they see you.”
“Is that what you think of?”
“I’d be lying if I said no. However most of the time it’s just more of how
incredible you are in every way. Hands down you’re the hottest woman I know,
but what makes you a real gem is your heart.”
“Oh, what a sweet thing to say.”
When they got back to the apartment, Dan looked at his watch. “It’s getting
late. You want to do something or just call it an evening?”
Brittany knew what she wanted to spend the rest of the night wrapped in his
embrace, but she didn’t want to give Dan the wrong idea. However being that
she had never felt this way, and had already put herself out there, she
decided to say what was on her mind. “Daniel, I’m not usually this forward
with men. I’m quiet and shy and never really tell them what I want. However
I have this need to just put everything out on the table with you.”
“Okay. Why don’t we sit down, and you can tell me what’s on your mind.” he
said gesturing to the couch. Dan sat reclining against the arm as Brittany
laid her head against his shoulder and sighed. “Daniel, I’ve never been as
attracted to a man as I am to you. I find myself wanting you in ways I never
have wanted anyone else. My emotions are telling me things I’ve never
thought they would. You are the first man I’ve ever wanted this way. I’m a
twenty-two year old virgin, and at this very moment I’m wondering if it
really means that much to me any more.”
“Whoa. Let me interject right there and tell you that it means a lot. I’d
hardly be a man if I didn’t want you, but for once in my life, sex isn’t
what it’s all about. As appealing as sex is with someone you’re attracted
to, it’s really so much more when you’re in love with them. As far as you’re
concerned, I see you as pure and perfect, and I love you that way.”
“Do you really?”
Dan nodded. “Brittany, I know those feelings of which you speak, because I
have them too. I just think that waiting is always the best thing if you
want a relationship. I want to give us time to really know one another. I
haven’t been in love for a long time, but I remember those distinct
feelings. I admit that I feel them for you. I don’t want to lose that.”
Brittany sighed in contentment. They just sat silently for awhile holding
each other. Finally though, Brittany said, “I should be going.” Dan gave her
a playful pout. “Oh, don’t make that face. I thought you said you’d respect
me.”
“I said I’d respect you. I didn’t say I’d like it.” he mentioned.
She smiled. “Trust me. I want to stay, and that’s why I think I should go.”
Dan nodded standing. He walked her to the door and smiled down at her
brightly. Pulling her into an embrace, he leaned down to her mouth. He
kissed her softly at first but then slowly opened her mouth touching his
tongue to hers. She groaned pulling his head in deeper.
Suddenly they found themselves on the couch again kissing methodically. Dan
worked his hand into her shirt to her bare side as his mouth found her neck.
“Brittany.” he whispered feeling her chest rise and fall faster. He looked
into her eyes and smiled.
“As nice as this is, I really should go.” she stated touching his cheek.
Once again Dan walked her to the door. She kissed him lightly whispering,
“Sweet dreams.”
Back at home, Brittany called Jen. Hearing the excitement in her voice, Jen
asked, “What’s up, Britt? You sound like a different person.”
“I just had the most spontaneously romantic evening with Daniel. I broke up
with John, so I went over to Daniel’s, and he was so sweet. He made me
dinner, and we went for a moonlight walk. It was perfect.”
“It sounds like it. John came by a little while ago pressing me for
answers. He thinks you dumped him because you want Dan.”
“I do want him, Jen. He’s absolutely wonderful.”
“Did he kiss you?”
“Actually, I kissed him first. I couldn’t help myself. He makes me feel so
empowered, like I can say and do anything around him. We talked about us so
open and honestly that I just felt at ease.”
“Anything else good happen? No sex, huh?”
“No sex, but we did mess around a little. His touch is so incredible. It
was so nice.”
“Sounds like you’re falling in love with the guy.” mentioned Jen.
“I know I am. That trip to his parents place sealed my fate. I totally
understand him now. He’s kind, caring, and sensitive. He’s everything I’ve
always wanted in a man.”
“It helps that he’s gorgeous.”
“Well, he’s that too.” Brittany giggled.
“It’s so good to hear you like this, Britt. You haven’t been this happy in
ages. I’m glad things are working out.”
************************************************************
On the evening of the Valentine’s dance, Brittany was just finishing
getting dressed when there was a knock on her door. Preparing her best
smile, she opened the door to see Dan standing there in a tuxedo holding a
dozen red roses. She saw his mouth fall open as his eyes surveyed her red
satin slip dress that came to just above her knees. Her blonde hair was
pinned up framing her face elegantly.
“Damn.” he mumbled. “Every time I think you couldn’t get any more
provocative, you blow me away. You look absolutely stunning. I’m the
luckiest guy to have you for a date.”
Brittany blushed taking the flowers from him. Going into the kitchen, she
began to arrange the roses in a vase. Dan came up behind her and wrapped his
arms around her tiny waist. He nuzzled into the nape of her neck making them
both moan. “We should get going.” she mentioned tilting her head back onto
his shoulder and closing her eyes.
“I know. Our reservations are in forty-five minutes, and it takes thirty to
get there.” he said kissing her ear before pulling away.
She turned and smiled up at him. “You look really nice.” she said playing
with his bowtie.
“So do you, Miss Saxton.”
When they arrived at the dance, they were fortunate enough to be assigned
to the dance floor. They were just watching over the kids when Brittany
pointed to the floor saying, “Isn’t that Kristen? She’s all over that guy.”
“She’s drunk.” Dan stated with anger starting toward her. Going up to her,
he cleared his throat.
The boy jumped when he saw Dan, but Kristen only slurred, “Well, if it
isn’t Dan the Man.”
“Kristen, may I speak with you in private please?”
“Whatever you have to say, you can say here. I don’t want to go anywhere
with you in private.”
“Kristen, as your coach, I’m asking to speak with you. Now, please come
talk to me. It will only take a moment.”
“Fine!” she yelled storming off toward the courtyard. Dan followed her.
When they were alone, she asked, “So tell me, Daniel. You getting enough
action with Ms. Saxton?”
“I refuse to get into that conversation with you, Kristen.”
“Why? You not happy? She not blowing you enough?” Kristen’s words were
malicious.
Dan was losing his temper but refused to give in to her taunts. “Kristen,
you haven’t been to practice since the accident, and now you show up here
drunk. Do you want to be kicked off the team?”
“Why do you even care? You don’t care about me, never did! You just wanted
to get me into bed! I loved you, and you took advantage of that! I should
turn you in! You should never be able to teach after what you did to me!”
Dan stood silent not knowing how to respond. Kristen took several breaths
trying to hold back her tears. “Daniel, I really hate what you did to me. I
gave myself to you and we made another life together. I never wanted to get
pregnant, and I was scared. When I needed you the most, you were off
screwing someone else! You’re the father of what would’ve been our child,
but I miscarried. Maybe that was a blessing in disguise. I don’t really
know. I’ll never be able to put you out of my heart, Daniel, but I want you
out of my life! I am not your runner or your student any more.”
“Kristen, you have a talent. It’s a shame to see you throw that away.”
“Well, some would say you have a talent coaching, but you threw that in the
trash by trying to get me in bed. That was a mistake on your part, and you
should pay for it.”
“I am paying for it, Kristen. You have no idea how much.”
“No, you’re not, but you will. I swear it!” Kristen yelled walking away
from him.
Dan returned to where Brittany was standing. “How did it go?” she asked.
“I’m going to be fired. She’s threatened to take action against me, and I
will be fired, no questions asked. She wants me to pay for hurting her.”
On Monday during lunch Dan was called into the principal’s office. When he
came in, the principal was withdrawn. “Coach McKnight, we need to talk. Sit
down.” she stated. He did as instructed. “A formal complaint has been lodged
against you by a female student. The charge is sexual misconduct.”
“May I ask who it was?”
“I’m sorry I can’t give out that information. This is a very serious
charge, Daniel. I have no other choice than to put you on a leave of absence
without pay starting immediately while there is an investigation into these
allegations.”
“What about the team? Who’s going to take over that responsibility?”
“I’ll make sure they are taken care of. Now the permanent sub will be here
by the end of lunch. You need to be out of your room by then.”
“May I make a request? I would like to speak to the team this afternoon.”
“Normally I couldn’t allow that, Daniel, but I’ll make an exception for
you. I must say you don’t seem at all surprised at these allegations.”
“Well, I knew they were coming. A student threatened me at the dance, so I
thought she might follow through, and apparently she has. I can’t do
anything, because my hands are tied. She knew what would happen. You’re just
doing your job by siding with her, and I get shafted. That’s the way the
system works. I’m angry about it, but I can’t do anything. Now if you’ll
excuse me, I have some things to pack.”
Dan began packing his things as he was off in his thoughts. He didn’t know
what he was going to do from there. All his dreams were crashing down around
him. Suddenly he was brought back to reality by Brittany’s voice. “Daniel,
what are you doing?”
“I’ve been put on unpaid leave. I could kill Kristen!”
“Oh, Daniel, I’m so sorry.” Brittany whispered coming to him. “What are you
going to do?”
“I don’t know. I guess I’ll fight it the best I can, but as of now, I’m out
of a job. I’ll think of something.” Dan mumbled dejected walking toward the
door.
The following weekend Dan and Brittany went out to see his dad and the
family attorney for legal advice. However when they arrived at lunch time, a
couple of Cowboy football players and coach were there as well. All of them
ate lunch before the players tried to entice him into a pick up game, which
he only agreed to at Brittany’s urging. Brittany stood next to Dan’s dad and
Coach Tucker as they watched the game with interest.
“Your boy still has that arm.” Coach Tucker mentioned. “Do you think I have
a chance at getting him on the practice field?”
“Tucker, I thought you were just going to put in a good word for him for a
position. You thinking you might want him on the team?”
“David, you know I’ve always wanted your boy on my team. This is a good
time to bring it up too. I just lost my quarterback for the season. Dan can
throw better than most of the QBs in the league. We both know that.”
“Well, I’m partial. Of course I want him to play, but it’s up to him.”
Coach Tucker turned to Brittany. “What do you think about it, little lady?
Would you like to date a football player?”
“Mr. Tucker, I love Daniel for who he is not what he is. I think it would
be exciting, but that’s my opinion. Daniel enjoys teaching English and
coaching track. I don’t know how he’d feel about this. You’d have to ask
him.”
“Oh, but think about it, Miss Brittany. Think about what it would mean.
Instead of coming home to that old apartment, you could be coming home to a
mansion. You could do all the things you’ve dreamed of. You could go any
where you desired. All you have to do is convince Dan to play football, and
it’s yours. You can make it happen. That boy would do anything for you. I’ve
seen it in his eyes. You can get him to play.”
“Daniel would not do anything he didn’t want to do, and furthermore, I
would never ask him. He makes his own decisions, and he’ll make this one.”
she stated gruffly walking away from them.
She stood alone at the fence for a few moments before she heard David’s
voice say, “You know, whenever I need to be alone to think about things, I
always come out here to the fence. It’s so peaceful to look out over the
plains.” Brittany didn’t respond. “I’m sorry about Tucker. He can be quite
manipulative to get his way. I’ve never liked that about him.”
“Do you think it’s true? What he said about me?”
“Well, let me put it to you this way, Brittany. My son is deeply in love
with you. I can easily see that. He would do anything you asked of him. That
much is true, but what Tucker doesn’t see that I do is that you love my son
just as deeply, don’t you?” Brittany nodded. “I thought so. Because you love
him, you would not try to manipulate him the way Tucker just tried to do to
you. You do have an advantage over my son, but I know for a fact that you’d
never press that advantage.”
Brittany took a deep breath. “Daniel’s in some serious trouble, Mr.
McKnight.”
“Call me David, Brittany. I know he is. I can sense it coming from both of
you. What did he do this time?”
“He had sex with one of his runners and got her pregnant.” David groaned in
displeasure. “She miscarried, David, but she’s really angry with Daniel and
reported it to the school.”
“Daniel has always had a way of getting himself into trouble where women
were concerned. That boy needs to learn how to keep his pants zipped. How do
you feel about all this?”
“Well, it happened when we were still friends, so I don’t hold it against
him or anything. I think it was stupid, but I want to do whatever I can to
help.”
“You’re such a caring woman, Brittany. I’m glad my son has found another
decent woman. I believe there only so many out there, and after Victoria
died, I worried about him. She was a gem, and I loved her like she was my
own daughter. When she died, I saw him fall into a deep depression, and I,
as a father, felt helpless. I wanted so much to take it away.”
“David, may I ask you a personal question? Please don’t tell me what you
think I want to hear. I want to know the truth.”
“Okay. I’ll tell you anything you want to know, Brittany.”
“Your wife doesn’t like me, does she?”
David was quiet a moment. “Brittany, let me tell you something about the
woman I’m married to. She is a witch. I’m only married to her, because I’m
afraid of losing everything I have.”
“What do you mean?”
“It’s a complicated story. I married Laura in my mid twenties, because I
thought we loved each other. Soon after I realized that she only married me
for my money, but instead of divorcing her like I should have, I did what
most guys would do at that age. I found comfort in the arms of another
woman. She traveled with me during football season while Laura stayed home.
Well, she got pregnant and had Daniel and Joseph. Laura and I have raised
them as ours though since birth. We stayed together, because I thought it
would be best for the boys, but looking back I now know that it was a
mistake. Laura resents them both. In fact I suspect that she abused them
when I was away.”
“What makes you say that?”
“Joseph fears her, and Daniel deplores her. I don’t believe that Joseph’s
being gay was a choice, but I do wonder if abuse helped him come to that
conclusion.”
“ I doubt it, David. I think it’s genetic. I thought you didn’t know about
that, though. That’s what they told me.”
“Laura doesn’t know. I know. I suspected it for a long time, but it was
confirmed one morning when I called Joseph’s apartment too early for company
and had a strange man answer. When he called Joseph to the phone, he called
him honey. I thought that was a pretty good indication. I asked Joseph, and
he told me. I don’t really like the fact that he is gay, but then I don’t
really like the fact that Daniel is a womanizer. They both have the same
problem, except one likes men and one likes women. They are dysfunctional in
their sex lives, and I can’t help but wonder if that was caused by Laura. I
wish both of them would change. Joseph can be gay if he could just learn to
be safe about it. The same holds true with Daniel. I’m scared for both of
them.”
“And you still won’t divorce Laura?”
“Trust me, I’ve thought about it many times.”
Before the conversation could go any further, they heard footsteps
approaching. Brittany turned to see Daniel smiling brightly at her. “What
are you two talking about over here?” he asked.
“Oh, not much, just chatting.” David answered.
“Well, you’ll never believe this. Coach Tucker just asked me to lunch on
Monday. What do you think he wants?” David and Brittany both shrugged.
On Monday evening Brittany got a visit from Dan at her apartment. He was
smiling brighter than he had in days. “How was your day?” Brittany inquired
kissing his cheek.
“It was good. I had lunch with Coach Tucker, and then I worked out with the
Cowboys. It was actually a lot of fun. They asked me to come back tomorrow.”
Dan said seriously.
“Oh, really? What did you say?” Brittany asked trying to hide her
enthusiasm.
“I said I would since I had nothing else pressing to do. What do you make
of that, Brittany?”
“I’m not sure. Sounds to me like they are trying you out. After all, they
did lose their starting quarterback for the season.”
Dan looked at her quizzically. “They haven’t even announced that to the
public yet. How did you know that? Did Coach Tucker say something to you
that I should know about?”
“Well, he just said that he would like you to play for him.”
“He’s been saying that for years.”
“I think he’s serious, Daniel. He asked me to try to convince you to play.”
“But you haven’t said a word to me about it until now.”
“I know. I want you to do what you want to do, not what he wants you to do.
I didn’t want any part in that. Out of curiosity though, why did quit
playing football if you were that good?”
“I wanted to teach, but I’ve really screwed that up.”
Brittany touched his arm. “There’s always a chance you’ll be reinstated.”
“No, not by our school. Maybe another after some time has passed, but I’m
out of a job for at least a year or two.” Dan mumbled walking into the
kitchen.
Following Brittany asked, “Well what if Coach Tucker made you an offer?
Would you consider it now?”
“I don’t know. Do you think I should?”
“I want you to do what makes you happy, Daniel.”
“That wasn’t the answer I was looking for, honey. Tell me what you honestly
think I should do.”
Brittany took a deep breath furrowing her brow seriously. “I don’t think
you’re going to like what I have to say.”
“Tell me anyway.” Dan pressed.
“All right. I think you should resign before they fire you. If you ever
want to teach again, it would be easier to explain a resignation than
termination. Outside of that I think you should do what you want. Playing
football seems to be something you enjoy, and money certainly wouldn’t be an
issue for you.”
Dan shook his head. “You’re right. I know you are. I just hate to let
Kristen think she’s won by me resigning.”
“I know, but Daniel, she is in the right here. She has a case against you.
You’re just lucky you’re only out of a job. Had she been seventeen, she
would have you put in jail.”
“It’s settled then. I’ll put in my resignation tomorrow.”
***********************************************************
On Friday afternoon Dan dropped by school at the end of the day. Brittany
was in her room giving a tutoring session when he arrived. “Hi. What brings
you here? I thought you’d be in practice.”
“Well, there’s no practice for me today. I was busy with contract
negotiations.”
“You mean they made you an offer? That’s great! Congratulations!” She
hugged him tightly.
“Well, we’ll see how things work out. I got the best negotiator working on
it, so I am sure to get my demands met.”
“Who’s that?”
“My father. He’ll make sure I get what I want. Here. I have a present for
you.” he mentioned unfolding the jersey he had in his hand. He turned it so
she could see his name across that back. “They decided to give me my dad’s
old number. I thought it was a nice gesture. Try it on.” he said helping her
get it over her head. Standing back he smiled. “It’s perfect on you. Well, I
should go. I’ll see you later tonight.”
“Yeah. We should celebrate. Let’s go out to dinner.”
“All right. I’ll pick you up at 7:00.”
Walking back to his car, he ran into Kristen smoking a cigarette with some
friends. Instantly everyone but Kristen threw theirs on the ground trying to
play innocent, but Kristen came up to him blowing smoke into his face.
“You going to turn me in?” she taunted.
“Why should I? I don’t teach here anymore. Remember?”
“Oh yes. I did have the pleasure of getting you fired. What are you going
to do now? Find another woman to take advantage of?”
“Kristen, as much as you hate yourself for accepting my advances, you did
willing accept them. That’s not taking advantage, and if I ever hear of you
saying that it was, I will sue you for slander. Now if you’ll excuse me, I
have to go make the most of my new career.”
“What’s that?”
“None of your business. If you’re that curious, you can see me on tv in the
fall. Now I really must go start my life free of you. Good bye, Kristen.”
When Dan went to pick Brittany up for dinner, she opened the door with a
sly smile pulling him inside. The place was candle lit. Brittany was wearing
his favorite outfit with her white shirt simply tied around her waist, her
black skirt, and grey sweater. Kissing her lips softly, he whispered, “God,
I love this outfit on you.”
She giggled. “I hope you don’t mind. I decided to make dinner for us
instead.”
“That sounds wonderful.” he said following her into the kitchen.
“Why don’t you open the wine while I serve the plates?” she suggested
handing him the corkscrew.
Dinner was quiet but content between them. Once it was over they washed the
dishes together. “Dinner was wonderful.” he complimented embracing her.
“Glad you liked it.” she answered as they kissed.
Sliding a hand under the hem of her skirt and touching her upper bare outer
thigh, Dan growled, “How about some dessert?”
Brittany laughed softly as he dove playfully into her neck. “Oh, you’re
such a bad boy, Daniel. We’ve only been dating for three weeks. Get your
hand out from under my skirt.” Reluctantly he withdrew and looked at her.
She smiled touching his hand. “Thank you.” she whispered.
“For what?”
“For respecting my wishes.”
“I will always respect your wishes, Brittany.”
Grinning she mentioned, “You can put it back now if you’d like.”
Dan put his hand back and continued to stroke her thigh lightly. Brittany
could tell his mind was racing as was hers. She could feel his hand sliding
around to the back of her leg before ascending up her backside. He smirked.
“I never would’ve thought you would wear a g-string. How naughty of you,
Brittany. You do have a wild side after all.”
“Why don’t we go into the living room?”
Dan let her lead him to the couch. Pulling him onto it, Brittany plummeted
into his mouth making him groan. Her hands opened the buttons of his shirt
and rubbed his chest. “God, who are you, and what have you done with
Brittany?” he moaned breathing deeply.
“I don’t know. I’ve never acted this way, but I can’t help myself. I like
it.”
“I like it too.” he whispered kissing her mouth as his hands untied her
top. He sensed her nervousness, but she pulled it off of her own shoulders
before doing the same to his. Her hand then moved down to the button of his
khaki pants. Dan’s body was on overdrive. He wanted Brittany more than
anyone else, and her touch was urging him further. His hands slid around her
back and unclasp her bra as he kissed along her neck. They both groaned when
Dan touched her breasts for the first time. Dan was lost in his own world.
She was responding to everything he did, and it was propelling him to the
point of no return. Sex would be inevitable, he figured, and remembering
that it would be her first, he felt as if he should make her as comfortable
as possible. Without a word, Dan stood and scooped her up. Her body went
rigid in his arms.
“Where are we going?” she asked in concern.
“To the bedroom. I thought you’d be more comfortable there than on the
futon. Would you prefer to stay here?” Dan inquired bewildered at her
question.
She simply shook her head in answer, so Dan continued back to her bedroom.
Once on the bed, they resumed their kissing as Dan worked off his pants.
Making his way down to her breasts, Dan gently kissed one as his hand
caressed the other. Brittany cried out softly as her back arched slightly to
meet his eager mouth. Feeling her body moving up into his, Dan was
encouraged. She found the back of his head and cradled it against her with
trembling hands. Dan felt her shaking slightly, but since the rest of her
body was giving him a stronger response, he didn’t give it any thought.
Brittany closed her eyes trying to relax, but as she did she felt her mind
drift back to another time and place. She fought the fear that was trying to
overtake her as she felt Dan remove the rest of her clothes. Her eyes
fluttered closed, and she saw him, his icy blue, hateful eyes and set jaw.
She heard his heaving breaths as his hips ground into hers, violating her as
she struggled against his weight.
She screamed out against him. “No! Stop it! Get off me, Stephen!” Her nails
dug into Dan’s shoulders.
He rolled off of her yelping, “Ouch!”
Brittany opened her eyes and saw the confusion on Dan’s face and blood
trickling down his shoulder. She was shaking violently as she began to cry.
“Brittany, are you okay?” Dan asked reaching out for her. She let him
embrace her. He rocked her slowly as he reassured her. When her tears had
slowed, he inquired again, “Are you all right?”
“I’m so sorry, Daniel.” she whispered kissing the wound she had inflicted.
“I’m okay, baby. I want to know if you’re all right. What was that all
about? Tell me it wasn’t me that frightened you.”
“No, it wasn’t you. I’m sorry.”
“Don’t apologize. There’s nothing to be sorry for. I just want to know what
that was about. Who’s Stephen?”
Brittany’s eyes swelled with the mention of the name. “He was a guy I dated
in high school. He was a senior, and I was a junior. He had dark hair with
blue eyes, and he was the quarterback of the football team. I was only
sixteen, and he was eighteen.”
Dan shut his eyes and took a deep breath. He knew where this was going. His
fear of having to live this moment over again was coming true. “Go on. You
can tell me.” he said hearing her fall silent.
“It was the night of the state championship. We had lost, and he blamed
himself, because he threw an interception in the fourth quarter that gave
them the winning score. Well, he took his frustrations out on me. I had
tried to console him, but he turned on me, was yelling and he hit me. I
should’ve run, but instead I got into a screaming match with him. He was so
drunk and out of control. Next thing I knew I found myself pinned on the bed
and his was ripping into my clothes. No one heard me scream, or if they did,
they ignored it.” she whispered beginning to choke on her words.
Dan held her closer. “Honey, I’m not Stephen. I would never hurt you. I
love you, Brittany.”
“I know.”
“I now understand why you’re a twenty-two year old virgin. I had wondered
if there was a story there.”
“But I’m not a virgin any more.” she sobbed.
“That doesn’t count to me. You’ve never willing had sexual relations with
anyone, so to me that means you are a virgin if that’s what you want to be.”
“That’s what I wish I was.”
“Then that’s what you are to me.” he assured her kissing her forehead. “Why
don’t we go to sleep? It’s been a rough night. Let me lie here and hold you.
Okay?”
Brittany nodded curling up closer to him, their naked bodies intertwining.
As they laid in silence Brittany began to think about the conversation with
David from a few days ago. “Daniel, are you asleep?”
“No.”
“What was your childhood like?”
“Um, when my dad was around, it was great. He would take Joe, Becca, and me
places, just the four of us, and we loved it. We had some of the best times.
I hated it when he was away though. He was gone so much for football.”
“What was it like when he wasn’t around?”
“It wasn’t fun. My mother was a real bitch.”
“What would she do?”
Daniel shifted uncomfortably into Brittany. “I don’t really want to talk
about it.”
“Daniel, you can tell me.”
“I know. I want to tell you, but I’ve never told anyone anything about my
childhood.”
“Was it that horrible?”
“I hate her for what she did to Joe and me.”
“What did she do?”
“I’m not sure what happened between she and Joe, but it was a night I’ll
never forget. Joe and I were twelve. My dad was out of town for some reason
or another. It was the middle of the night, and Joe woke me. He was shaking.
I’ve never such a look of fear on his face. I asked what was wrong, but he
wouldn’t say anything. The rest of the night I just laid in bed holding him
and watching him shake and sob uncontrollably. The next evening I saw her
approach him and he cowered from her touch. She hurt him. I don’t know what
happened exactly and maybe I’ll never know, but he’s never been the same.”
“Did she ever hurt you?”
“Not physically. She did touch me in ways that made me uncomfortable. I
finally broke around age fifteen. One night she came up behind me and
brushed her body up into my back. I felt her arms snake around my waist. One
hand grabbed me by my belt buckle and the other by the crotch of my jeans. I
completely froze as my eyes met Joe’s. I saw that same fear in his eyes, and
I knew she had touched him like that. I was so angry at the unwelcome
invasion that before I realized I had done it, I had turned and hit her full
force and busted her lip. I knocked her out. It was a horrible moment in my
life. I’ve never hit a woman, and even though I felt as if my personal space
had been violated, I still hated the fact that I had hit her. To this day I
regret my action. I could’ve handled it differently.”
“You were just a kid, Daniel. She never should’ve put you in that position.
Mothers are supposed to protect their children, not hurt them. You were just
defending yourself.”
“Well, I began being very violent until Victoria and I started dating. It
took a long time, but she changed me. After she died, though, I went back to
my old ways.” Daniel mentioned.
The next morning Dan awoke first. Wearing only his boxers, he went into the
kitchen and started a pot of coffee. Sinking onto the couch he channel
surfed for awhile until he heard a knock on the door. When he opened it, he
saw Jen standing there with wide eyed surprise.
“Dan, what are you doing here? What happened to your shoulder?”
“Nothing.” he mumbled.
“That’s not nothing.” she pressed.
Dan ignored her though as he offered her some coffee. “What are you doing
here anyway?” he inquired.
“Brittany and I are supposed to look at apartments today. I’m a little
early.”
“Brittany’s still in bed. We both had a little too much to drink last
night.”
About then Brittany stumbled sleepily into the room yawning. “Interesting
outfit, Britt.” commented Jen seeing that Brittany had on only Dan’s jersey
but was obviously naked underneath.
“I think that’s my new favorite outfit.” teased Dan coming to give Brittany
a kiss. “I’m going to take a shower.”
Once Brittany and Jen were alone, Jen asked in interest, “You two had sex
yet?” Brittany shook her head. “What happened to Dan’s shoulder? It looked
painful.”
“I accidentally did that. We were in bed last night, and I got nervous. I
clamped down on his shoulder too hard. I feel terrible about it.”
“He didn’t seem to care. I’m so glad you are happy. He’s so much better
than John. He’ll go nuts if he finds out about you two. You know he’s still
planning to move up here after graduation. Maybe we should get an unlisted
number. He’s got an interview up here on Monday. I wouldn’t be surprised if
he showed up on your doorstep.”
Monday evening Dan and Brittany were having a casual early dinner at her
place, so they could attend the school’s choral concert that night. They had
just finished eating and were cleaning up when there was a knock on the
door. They looked at each other. “Do you think that could be John?” Dan
asked.
“It’s possible.”
“You want me to answer it?”
“No. That’s okay. I can handle him.”
“All right. You want me to go into the bedroom, so you two can have it out
in private?”
“That’s a good idea. I appreciate it. You’ll know if I need you.”
Brittany answered the door, and as expected it was John. He was standing in
a dark business suit smiling slyly at her. “Hello, Brittany. How are you?”
“John, I heard you were up here.” she stated flatly. He brushed past her
into the apartment. She rolled her eyes in annoyance. “Are you here for a
reason?”
“I just wanted to see how you were doing. I haven’t heard from you in
weeks. I was wondering if you forgot how to use a phone.”
“Why should I call you, John, especially after the way you acted last time
you were here?”
“Oh, come on, Britt. Can’t you put that behind us? I was just upset.”
“You destroyed my place, John. You were screaming and out of control. You
expect me to just forget about that?”
“Oh, honey, I am sorry.” he said touching her arm.
She pulled away saying, “Don’t call me that.”
“Come on now. I’m trying to make amends here. I don’t think we should go on
like this without each other.” he mentioned embracing her.
Brittany pushed him off. Firmly she stated, “Don’t touch me.”
“What is going on with you, Brittany? Why are you acting this way toward
your adoring boyfriend?”
Backing up a few steps, Brittany braced herself for an explosion as she
said, “You’re not my boyfriend any more, John.”
John gave an irritated laugh. “You can’t be serious? No one dumps me.”
“I have, and I meant it when I did it.”
“You damn bitch!” he yelled grabbing her by the arm. “Do you really think
I’m going to let you decide when our relationship is over?”
“John, let go of me now!” she screamed.
Hearing her Dan came out to the living room. “You heard her. She said let
go.” gruffly he demanded yanking John back.
“Well, well, I suspected this. You cheat on me with this dumb brute. He
doesn’t even have two brain cells, Brittany.”
“Look asshole, say whatever the hell you want about me, but you better
leave Brittany alone!”
“Oh insult me! That is really intelligent!”
Dan pushed him up against the door. “You started it, jerk! Get it through
your thick head! She doesn’t want anything to do with you! Leave her alone!”
“You just stay out of this, Dan! This is none of your business!”
“Oh, this is my business! Her happiness is my business! Whatever this woman
wants is what this woman gets, and I’m here to make sure that happens! She
wants you out of her life, and I will make sure you respect her wishes! Now
I think you should leave!” Dan suggested seeing Brittany near tears of
frustration.
“And I think you should go to hell, Dan! I’m not leaving!”
“You are going to leave or else I’m going to throw you out!” Dan threatened
grabbing him by his shirt collar.
“Daniel, stop.” Brittany whispered pulling him off John. “John, please go.
I don’t want to see you any more.”
“Fine! You’re making a big mistake though, Brittany! When you realize that,
don’t come crawling back to me!” John yelled slamming the door behind him.
Dan turned to Brittany. “Are you okay?”
“I told you I could handle that! You didn’t have to come out here playing
knight in shining armor! I’m capable of holding my own!”
Dan was taken back. “I’m sorry, honey.” he fumbled. “I was just trying to
help. I didn’t realize it would upset you.”
“I know you were only trying to help. I just want you to know that I’m not
fragile. I can do it myself. I don’t need someone to rescue me.”
Dan smiled. “I know. You’re a strong woman. That’s one of the reasons why I
love you.”
“I love you too, Daniel.” she answered smiling back at him.
“So you’ll forgive me?” She nodded as they kissed.