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What Goes Around... Ch. 02

By: Blue88



I walked into the house, tossed Jackie's purse on the table in the foyer and knew that I would have to call her. Shit, if it wasn't for her bag I would have done my best to forget that whole maddening conversation. One thing for sure, I didn't want to remove the scab that was covering the wound of the events leading to my divorce. I didn't want to bleed again, poor metaphor that that may be. 

I wandered into the kitchen and stood there a moment. I almost went through the motions of making a sandwich until I realized that I wasn't hungry. The ring of the phone momentarily startled me then I grimaced, knowing who the caller must be.

I picked up the phone and mumbled a "hello."

"Max, it's me, Jackie." There was a moment of silence. I didn't say anything.

"Max, do you have my purse? I think that I left it on the table at the bar. My wallet is in it and my driver's license. I shouldn't drive without that, Max."

I could hear the plea in her voice. I sighed and asked for directions to her place. I told her that I would be there in a few minutes. Shit, I felt as if I were being pulled in, like a fish who had bitten on the bait.

It wasn't long before I was at the front door of her condo, a first floor unit in a two story building. I didn't get a chance to ring the bell before Jackie was at the open door, inviting me in. I entered and was suitably impressed. Her decor was simple, neat and tailored. Muted earth tones prevailed and there wasn't a sign of clutter. My estimation of her went up a small notch.

"Here's your purse, Jackie," and I held it out, hoping that she would take it and let me get the hell out. I felt distinctly uncomfortable and I really wasn't sure why. This woman was someone I had disliked for quite awhile and who was at least partially responsible for the breakup of my marriage. Intellectually I knew this and yet, on a deeper level, I had to admit that she did not plan the events that killed my relationship with Tina and I also had to admit that she seemed genuinely sorry about everything that had happened.

"Max, thank you. I appreciate that you had to drive over here. Look, I know that you haven't eaten so I prepared a snack for us." She took me by my elbow and steered me into the kitchen. Again I was impressed - dark cabinets and stainless steel appliances. I was also talking to myself. "What the fuck are you doing, idiot. You've returned her purse, now get the hell out. What? You're actually going to sit down and eat with her? Fool, get the hell out. Get away from her."

Maybe I was a fool, but I didn't get out. I looked at the spread on the table - tuna salad, egg salad, fresh tomatoes, onions, etc. Croissants, they looked fresh. All of a sudden I felt ravenous, like I hadn't eaten in days. We sat down, Jackie poured coffee and we ate. Did we chat? I swear I don't know, all I remember was stuffing my face. I did notice Jackie smiling at me occasionally. It wasn't long before I realized that I was making a pig out of myself and that I was also sated. 

I smiled wryly at Jackie and wiped my mouth with my napkin ."Sorry, I guess I was hungrier than I thought," I said sheepishly. Subconsciously I wondered if her smile was just a bit brittle, then I felt that uncomfortable feeling again - shit. What the hell is going on? Am I actually becoming attracted to her? "HELL NO," I shouted silently, and yet...

We adjourned to the living room with fresh cups of coffee. "I'm really sorry I made such a fool of myself, Max. I guess I was just really nervous. I'm glad that you didn't humiliate me there - I sure deserved it," said a contrite Jackie.

I blinked a couple of times. Where was the arrogance I had always associated with this broad? Where was the smug complacency? Between her confession at the bar and her present apologetic manner, she seemed a different woman. Perhaps I had judged her too harshly. Maybe my dislike of Bonnie had encompassed those around her. 

We sat and chatted, the topics far afield from our central issue. I avoided asking her anything about Tina and she didn't even hint about what was, probably, uppermost in both of our minds. I found her sharp, smart, very aware of events happening in the world. Jeez, could I have been this wrong about this woman? After awhile I realized that I was actually enjoying myself. As we sat there I appraised her with part of my mind. Again I admired her soft auburn hair, the hazel eyes and her well built frame. I had noticed that a button on her blouse had become undone, not surprising considering the strain on them by her very well developed breasts, and I could occasionally see a glimpse of a lacy bra.

"Oh, my gosh, Max. Look at the time and I have an early morning appointment tomorrow," exclaimed Jackie as she rose.

I blinked again, coming back to earth and realized that it was after midnight. Damn, it just seemed like minutes, sitting there, enjoying her company. "Sorry, Jackie. I didn't realize the time. I'm sorry if I've overstayed my welcome," I apologized.

"Don't be silly, Max," she giggled. "I'll forgive you if you promise that the next dinner is on you." 

Without giving any thought to what I was saying, I blurted out, "Tomorrow is Saturday. Seven o'clock?"

A small smile appeared on her lips and she nodded. "Seven will be fine, let's not go to anyplace fancy though, okay?"

I nodded and in a small daze made my way to the door. Jackie reached up and gave me a soft kiss on the cheek and murmured, "Thanks Max, you're sweet."

********************

I awoke the next morning with a start. Glancing at the clock I saw it was almost 7:30 and jumped from my bed. Shit, I rushed so that I wouldn't be late for my golf match with Sam Able. I quickly showered, shaved, etc., had a quick cup of joe and was at the club exactly at 8:40 as promised.

I was feeling great and for the first time I broke 90. The sun was shining and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. We drove the cart from tee to tee and I couldn't stop smiling. Sam kept looking at me sourly. For some reason my good mood seemed to annoy him, or was it that he was again, going to shoot over 100. We finally finished the 18th and I wound up with a 88. "Jeez, I'm going to frame this score card," I said proudly to Sam.

He laughed, tore his card up and threw the scraps at me. "Shit, I guess I'll be hearing about this for weeks, won't I? You broke 90 so you buy lunch."

That didn't bother me one bit and we both ordered club sandwiches and cold brews. We ate on the terrace overlooking the 18th hole and after lunch Sam leaned back and lit one of his notorious stogies. Thank goodness we were outside, but even so he got some menacing stares from a couple at a nearby table. He took a couple of puffs and then said casually, "I guess you're aware that Tina moved."

It was as if he had punched me in the gut; my breath escaped and for a moment it was if I couldn't breath. "Goddamnit," I screamed silently. "I'm over her, get control of yourself," but I couldn't fool Sam. 

He smiled softly and continued. "She moved to the Atlanta branch of her company, Max. That should make you happy, you won't have to worry about running into her here."

"Sam," I replied tightly, "I told you before. I don't want to hear about Tina. If you keep bringing her up it will screw up our friendship. I'm asking you again, please just drop it, okay? I'm over her"

"Okay, Max. I just thought you might want to know," responded Sam breezily.

That conversation seemed to turn the day somewhat sour and the letdown from my high was unnerving. What the hell did he bring her name up? I really felt that time was on my side, I was getting over her. I admit that I was a bit surprised that Tina had moved, but that would make it that much easier. I was moving on. I was moving on.

********************

I picked Jackie up at 7:00 and headed out to a small, rustic restaurant that I had heard about. It wasn't fancy and it wasn't part of a chain. I had read that they served good food at reasonable prices and it was a good thing that I had called ahead and made reservations - it was crowded yet the noise level was moderate and the tables spaced far enough apart so that conversation was easy. We were lucky, we had a booth which made for more privacy.

I looked over at Jackie and was again impressed by how good she looked. Her eyes sparkled and she returned my smile.

"I've never been here before, Max. It looks nice," she remarked.

"It's not the only thing that looks nice, Jackie," I murmured. "You look terrific," I continued as she blushed. "I can't believe that we used to dislike each other so much. I guess I should apologize for that."

"No need, Max," she said quickly. "I was as much to blame. We were both wrong about lots of things. Let's not bring that up, let's just have a nice meal and enjoy the evening."

I'd like to say that we had a wonderful evening that ended with us in her bed, but that would be a lie. The funny thing is that that didn't really bother me. I did enjoy being in her company and I enjoyed her quick mind. I did get a nice goodnight kiss and I didn't try to take it any further. Tell the truth, I really didn't know how much further to take this budding relationship. Was I developing feelings for Jackie? I had to admit that I liked her, but was it more than that? That was something that I had to think about.

Then, as usual, I thought of Tina and again felt the pain. The pain of her betrayal, the pain of our separation and divorce, the pain of missing her. 'I was over her, I was over her,' I said to myself. 'It's over, get used to that,' I berated myself. I sat in my easy chair that night until well past midnight. I was absolutely bewildered. Was I 'over' Tina? If not, was the longing and the pain diminishing? What about Jackie? Was she starting to get under my skin, was I developing 'feelings' for her? Could that be possible? What the fuck - I'm an emotional mess, I concluded and went to bed.

I had finally fallen asleep and woke to the phone ringing. I groggily reached over and mumbled something into the mouthpiece. "Max, is that you? It's past 11:00, you're still asleep?" screamed a voice. At least it seemed a scream.

"Jeez, Sam. What the fuck. Lower your voice, damnit," I finally sat up. Looking at the clock I realized that indeed it was after 11:00. I had overslept, but so what - I had no where to go.

"Max, get your ass moving. We're going on an outing. I've got my brother's cabin for the day and a car full of food. Bring your swim suit, we'll go swimming in the lake." burbled Sam, excitement in his voice.

"Sam," I began, regret in my voice. "I don't want to disappoint you, but...

"No buts, Max. Jackie already said yes and I'm bringing a date. You'll get to see Jackie in a swimsuit. You gonna turn that down?" he demanded.

Ooops, I did a turnaround. Didn't even have to give that any thought. "Okay, Sam. Do I pick Jackie up?" I asked. 

"Yeah, pick her up at noon. She's expecting you. I'll meet you there, you know where it is. I'm leaving now to pick up Bonnie. See you soon."

I sat there, speechless, a dead phone in my hand. Bonnie?? Bonnie?? Sonofabitch, Bonnie was going to be there. Sam was bringing Bonnie. What the fuck. Shit, shit, shit. I shouldn't have been so surprised. I knew that Sam had dated Bonnie at least a couple of times. He also knew Jackie and Bonnie had probably told him about our "date." I felt myself going around in a circle. Tina, Bonnie, Jackie, Tina, Bonnie, Jackie. Only now, Tina was not in that circle, but I was still revolving. Shit, I didn't know how I would react in Bonnie's presence, but... I did want to see Jackie again, and Jackie in a swimsuit... okay. I rushed a shower, etc. and was soon on my way.

********************

"Max," said Jackie softly as we drove. "I'm really sorry, I didn't realize that Sam had asked Bonnie along. I know that you really don't care for her, so if you want to change plans, I'll understand," and she put her hand gently on my arm

"Nah, that's okay, Jackie. I'd really like to put all of that crap behind me. If she behaves herself, and no wise cracks, I'll be okay. But, if she makes one crack about me or Tina, I'll really lay into her, so don't be surprised," I said grimly.

Jackie then laughed. "Maybe that's what she needs." She giggled again and laid her head back on the seat.

We were soon there. Sam's brother Frank, had a sweet little cabin on a small lake. You could see the bottom through the crystal clear water and occasionally a small mouth bass for which we used to fish when he would invite me up. The cabin had a bedroom, a spacious living room and a small but serviceable kitchen. It had electricity which was supplied from the main trunk line for the few widely separated cabins built around the lake. The lawn, which was maintained by someone who did all of the properties there, ran down to the lake and had some low aluminum and nylon chairs scattered about. I felt a pang - the last time I had been here was when Sam had invited Tina and I to enjoy a weekend by ourselves. Bittersweet memories.

We unloaded out things from the car which I had parked beside Sam's SUV and headed for the front porch. Sam rushed out to greet us before we even had a chance to mount the steps.

"Hey, there. You made it just in time. Bonnie's putting out a nice spread on the picnic table in back. C'mon, let's eat. I'm starvin'."

Shit, Bonnie. Oh well, guess I had better get this over with. I'll be pleasant as long as she behaves herself, I thought.

As promised, the table was covered by a checkered cloth and there were dishes of coldcuts, etc. laid out. Bonnie was standing there, a tight and obviously reluctant smile on her face. She did approach me and held out her hand. "Hi Max, I'm glad you were able to join us. Isn't it beautiful here, I'm so glad that Sam invited me," she said almost mechanically.

Shit, I can play the game. "Hi, Bonnie. It is nice, glad that we could come," and shook her hand briefly. Well, that didn't go too badly. Maybe I could get through this day without too much grief.

We had a nice but somewhat subdued lunch, but by the end everyone seemed to get somewhat more comfortable when we realized that Bonnie and I weren't going to spring at each others throats. We cleaned up and then adjourned to the front porch with some wine. Sam lit one of his noxious cigars, but sat downstream, so to speak. The fumes didn't bother us. 

"Okay, kids," Sam said eventually, flinging the stogie into an empty coffee can by his chair. "Let's get into our suits and get wet. Girls, you go first. The bedroom is yours - unless, of course, you want to change right here," he leered and then laughed.

The girls laughed with him, and Bonnie taunted him. "You wish," as she followed Jackie into the cabin. 

It wasn't long before the girls appeared, now dressed "appropriately?" in their bikinis. I almost swallowed my tongue. Jackie had on a hot pink number. The bra was adequate, I guess, but emphasized her breasts, her nipples obvious. The lower part was modest enough, I guessed, but was cut so low that it was apparent that she had shaved down south.

Bonnie was another story. Damn, she might as well have been naked. Her bra consisted of two small triangles that barely covered her nipples. The lower part of the "suit" was a thong, again a triangle that just, just covered her pussy and left her ass as bare as a baby. The strange thing was though that Bonnie didn't really seem very comfortable. She was wearing a slight blush, I thought, and turned quickly from us and ran down to the lake. She walked into the water and was soon chest deep.

Jackie turned to us and urged us to get into our suits. "Go ahead, guys. The water looks wonderful. Get changed," she smiled mischievously and followed Bonnie, but at a more sedate pace. 

Sam and I changed quickly, both of us wearing baggy boxer type suits and joined the girls. We were soon splashing each other and laughing and acting like teenaqers. Even Bonnie soon loosened up and seemed to be having fun. It was obviously to everyone but Bonnie that her "swimsuit" was now wet and very transparent. Her aroused nipples were poking holes through the soaked material of her bra and her shaven nether lips were on display behind the so called thong. It was also apparent that she had no idea that she was so exposed. 

In all of the horseplay, Bonnie's boobs slipped from the brief bra and she squealed, turned her back and adjusted herself, still not aware of her near nudity. Sam made it a point to tickle her and dunk her under the water. Shit, he might as well take her suit off, it would have made no difference. I glanced at Jackie and she just laughed as she called Sam a jerk.

We soon grew tired and left the water. Sam had brought a large blanket out and the girls gratefully lay back, breathing heavily from their previous exertions. Sam and I sat in the chairs, strategically placed so that we had an excellent view of the beauty of the "area." Bonnie was lying there, her eyes closed, her body gleaming with moisture, her breasts, nipples and pussy totally exposed. I looked at Jackie put she had an innocent look on her face. I frowned a bit, puzzled by her indifference to Bonnie's near nudity. I shrugged, shit, who am I to complain.

Sam suddenly arose and approached Bonnie. He extended his hand and pulled her to her feet, muttering, "Let's go, sweetie."

His arousal was very evident by the tent in his cutoffs. Bonnie, realizing where he was leading her, blushed a deep red and turned her head, not even glancing our way. They soon disappeared into the door of the cabin.

I looked over at Jackie and raised my eyebrows questioningly. She gave me a crooked smile and shrugged. "I guess that they've been here before, Max," she said. She then patted the blanket and asked me to join her. I didn't hesitate, but lay down on my back, beside her. I looked up at the clear, blue sky and felt a calmness, a lassitude come over me. This was one of the few times in the past months that I felt at ease. The tension that was almost like a living thing inside of me seemed to retreat, at least a little bit. I felt at ease.

I was startled to see Jackie's face above me, her lips descending to mine. I didn't move, but also didn't react right away as she kissed me. That didn't last long, I responded, reaching up for her, my hands on her shoulders. The kiss was gentle, undemanding. I felt her hands on my chest, pushing, and the kiss ended abruptly. She was still for a moment, looking down at me, a thoughtful expression on her face.

"You're a nice guy, Max," Jackie said softly. "It's a shame...," she paused and then quickly rose to her feet. I was about to speak, to ask her what she meant, when she continued quickly. "It's getting late, Max. I want to get back before it's dark. Do you mind?"

I stood there with a stupid expression on my face. What the hell happened just now? I know I blinked a couple of times and then nodded. "Okay, Jackie. We can leave, but our clothes are in the bedroom - now what?"

"Shit," she muttered. "Well, that's their problem. C'mon, Max. Looks like we're going to be interrupting the love birds." and headed for the cabin, me trailing behind, grinning. This was going to be fun.

Damn, it looked like Sam had taken precautions - our clothing had been removed from the bedroom and was tossed onto the sofa in the living room. I shook my head unbelievingly. He had the presence of mind to do that? I admit, I was a bit more than surprised. Guess he really didn't want to be interrupted.

Jackie told me to turn my back and we dressed hurriedly. I yelled to Sam that we were leaving and heard no response - of course. We threw our things in the back of the car and headed back to Jackie's place. Pulling into a parking spot, Jackie turned to me and asked me to come in.


What Goes Around... Ch. 02



"Max," she shouted from the bathroom where she threw her damp swim stuff. "Stay for dinner, I can throw some things together, if you don't mind potluck."

I swear, to this day, I have no idea what we ate. Jackie told me to make myself comfortable, she needed time for shower and then put dinner on the table. I sat in the living room, wondering what the hell was going on. I know, I know, it was as if I had an IQ of 30. The last few days were kind of overwhelming. I went from actively disliking this woman to actually liking her. I decided to stop trying to figure it out. Let's see where this new road was going - I just decided to 'go with the flow'. I put these thoughts out of my mind and surfed the tv.

I heard Jackie come out of the bathroom behind me and scurry to the kitchen. She must have been wearing slippers, no hard clicking on the tile floor. She messed in there for about 20 or 30 minutes and then called me in for dinner. I quickly rose and moved to the dining area and then...stopped. I stood and stared at Jackie. Her hair was freshly brushed, a slight hint of lipstick, but that wasn't what stopped me in my tracks. She was wearing a...a...shit, what do you call those things. It was short, not quite to her knees, diaphanous, could I see her nude body underneath???? wasn't sure of that. I did notice that she was actually blushing.

"Put your eyes back in your head, Max. I just wanted to get comfortable. Let's eat," she said casually, but I could detect a certain hesitation in her voice. She was nervous, she flitted from subject to subject, most times not even waiting for a reply to a question she asked. Her cheeks remained pink and she ate very little. I'm not sure if I ate at all - it took all of my power to keep my eyes from her gently swaying breasts. I tried not to stare at her obviously very erect nipples, poking holes in her... garment. 

Next thing I knew we were seated on the sofa, sipping wine from heavy goblets. Jackie had tucked her feet under her (how the hell do they do that, anyway?) and was smoothing the material of her gown under her thighs in order to preserve some modesty. Fuck it, I thought to myself. I've controlled myself long enough. Time to make a move.

I placed my glass on the end table and leaned forward, my lips close to hers. I wanted to see if she would retreat - what a stupid move. Of course she wouldn't - in fact, with her glass still in her hand she moved forward a bit and our lips met. Our tongues dueled for a few moments and I reached down and removed her glass, placing it next to mine - all by feel and not spilling a drop. My lips slid from hers and nuzzled her neck, under her ear. I heard her moan softly and my lips reached her ear lob, biting gently.

My hand parted her short gown and covered her breast. Her nipple was turgid and she moaned again as I passed my palm over it gently. The gown fell from her shoulders, drifting to settle around her hips. I sat and gazed at her soft mounds, entranced - the seemed perfect, an artist couldn't have drawn more symmetrical pillows. My hand was again pulled to her chest and moved from one to the other. My head dipped and I gently tongued a nipple here, another there. Jackie had her head back, breathing heavily, pushing her chest into my face.

I bit gently, and she grasped my head and mashed my lips into her breast. I spend minutes worshiping those altars to Venus, encouraged by Jackie's moans and guiding hands. I then reached down and loosened the folds of her gown, spreading it around her. She lay there, now virtually nude, looking up at me with heavy eyelids, her lust very evident. I saw that she trimmed her pubic hair, leaving a neat, inverted triangle of soft curls, just a bit darker than her hair.

Damn, I sat for a moment, admiring her soft curves, her pale skin, a sprinkle of freckles on her chest above her breasts. I placed a hand on her thigh, stroking the soft flesh, noticing an eruption of tiny goosebumps. I knelt suddenly and kissed her belly, causing her to catch her breath. Moving down a bit, I worked my lips to her thighs, feeling them part, giving me access to her womanhood. Her aroma was intoxicating and I could see beads of moisture glistening along the folds of her labia. I ran my tongue along her slit and heard her make a sound that was something between a moan and a grunt. Jackie then put her hands in my hair and literally pulled my face into her crotch.

I heard her mutter softly. "There, right there. Lick, lick there, use your tongue, go inside," and I complied eagerly. My tongue moved from her clitoris to her vagina, each time gliding over her piss hole which caused her a small shudder. I felt her juices flow and I had to back off a bit, fighting her hands pulling my head closer to her. Suddenly Jackie tensed, her hips coming up off the sofa, her body a bow, trembling in her orgasm. She was keening, her thighs now tight again the side of my head. I leisurely and gently caressed her vulva, waiting for her to come down. Gasping, Jackie finally pushed me away, muttering, "wait, wait, too sensitive."

Kneeling there, my head lying on her thigh, I waited. Finally I felt her hands in my hair, stroking gently. "Max," Jackie murmured softly. I looked up and saw her smiling tenderly. "Max," she repeated. "Get your clothes off. Get your clothes off, Max," a firmer tone in her voice now. She then arose and, taking my hand, steered us to her bedroom. I was naked seconds later, lying close to her on the soft, white sheets of her bed.

Jackie bent over me, the points of her breasts brushing against my chest, and kissed me gently. She smiled softly and whispered, "Damn, Max, you're good, you're very good. Now let's move to the finale," and then she reached down and grasped my straining erection which was throbbing for release.

Swinging a leg over my torso, Jackie lowered herself and, grasping my cock by the base, steered it into the folds of her hot pussy. It slid in with virtually no resistance, a testament as to how moist she was. She then placed her palms on my chest and began the slow dance of love. Her hips rose slowly and descended quickly, up and down, up and down, until she caught her breath and muttered, "Ohhhh, it's coming...it's coming again." She tensed and I could feel the muscles in her vagina start to flutter. That put me over the edge and I clasped her hips and thrust up into her, letting myself pulse and ejaculate into her depths. For the next few seconds a bomb could have gone off and I wouldn't have been aware of it. When I came to my senses I found Jackie lying beside me, curled into my arm. I looked down and her eyes were closed, a small smile on her face. We fell asleep in that position.

It seemed like just moments later that the alarm went off. Jackie sprang from the bed, exclaiming, "Damn it, I'm going to be late, that goddamn clock screwed up again." as she ran for the bathroom. I looked around a little groggily, finally realizing where I was. I stretched, and luxuriated in my memories of the previous evening. I felt so damn relaxed, almost as if I were going to melt into the mattress. I heard Jackie call out again.

"Max, get your ass moving, you'll be late for work. You have to go home and change. You can shower here if you'd like." Screw it, I thought. So I'll be late, fuck it. I was going to take it easy today - I had a lot to think about. I rose, gathered my clothes and dressed. The bathroom door was ajar and I pushed it open. Jackie was in the shower, her form blurred by the steam. "Jackie, I'm leaving now. I'll call you this evening, okay?"

"Okay, Max. Thanks. Please, don't forget to call me," I heard from behind the glass. I smiled briefly and left. I drove home slowly, my thoughts a bit chaotic. I showered, dressed and made it to work about 9:30, which wasn't terribly late. 

Mike Cooper passed me in the hallway and paused, looking at me, a puzzled look on his face. "What's with you, Max? You hit a jackpot, or something?"

"Huh?" I replied intelligently. "What?" I continued in that same vein.

"You look like the cat that swallowed a mouse. You get laid, or something?" he joked.

Little did he know how close he was. I laughed and punched him lightly on the shoulder. "It's just a nice day, Mike. It's better to smile than frown, right?"

He looked at me for a moment and smiled briefly. "Yeah, yeah, that's what they say. Get your ass moving, you're late," and strode off.

I sat behind my desk, my hands on the back of my head, gazing out of my window. Guess what I was thinking about - yeah, doesn't take a genius to figure that out. Things were happening too fast, I couldn't get my emotions calmed down. How did I feel? More exactly, how did I feel about Jackie? I couldn't deny that my opinion of her had changed dramatically. I had gone from dislike to...what? What was I feeling? Shit, this was going to take some thought.

"Hey, stud. How's it going," a voice came from the open door. I turned to see Sam Able mosey into my office and fling himself into a chair. "Sorry about Saturday, Max. I guess Bonnie and I got a little carried away, but I suspect that you and Jackie found other things to do?" and he raised his eyebrows a bit and smiled.

"Sam, I think that I'm in trouble," I muttered. I saw a look of concern come over his face.

"What? Tell old Sammy what the problem is, buddy?" He sat back and encouraged me to continue.

"It's Jackie. My mind's all fucked up, Sam. This is a broad that I used to view with contempt, I actively disliked her. Now... now, I just don't know. Shit, I think that I actually like her...I like her a lot."

Sam laughed, "So what's the problem, Max? You like her, that's great. Why drive yourself nuts - just go with what you feel. Look, Max. You don't have to run out and get a ring or anything so drastic. Go with it for awhile. See what happens. You're trying to make decisions as if the end of the world is coming. Relax, Max. If you like her, then cultivate that, see where it goes."

Damn, that made sense and I felt really foolish that I hadn't come up with the same conclusion. Why was I driving myself crazy? I liked Jackie, but I didn't think I was in love with her or anything close to that. Was I? Okay, okay, I'll just have to see what happens. Feeling a lot better, I thanked Sam as he left and settled down to make some calls.

********************

Jackie and I started to date...well, it was more than that. It was obvious that we were seeing each other exclusively. She stayed over at my place a couple of times a week, especially on weekends. In fact, she had some clothes that she kept there as well as personal effects. Ditto for her place - there were times when I stayed over there. No words were exchanged about our status, but I think that we were both flirting around the edges of the "talk." I knew it was coming, but I still didn't really know how I felt. Did I love her? Shit, I just was not sure about that.

Well, eventually we had the "talk." It wasn't traumatic or confrontational, thank goodness. It happened almost by accident. We had just finished a pizza while watching an NFL game on TV at my place. Jackie turned to me, and putting her beer down, commented, "Max, do you have any idea where we're heading? I mean, look at us. We've been going together for a few months now. I haven't seen anyone else and I know that you haven't either." She paused, a quizzical expression on her face.

I nodded, it was time that we cleared the air. "I know, Jackie. You're right. I haven't been seeing anyone, same as you, but... I gotta be honest, honey. I just don't know how I feel. I mean I know I like being with you. When we're not together, I miss you. But my feelings are kinda screwed up. Can you give it some time? Can we agree to keep seeing each other and be faithful to each other - at least for the time being? I know this may not be fair to you, but I think I really need time. What do you think?"

Jackie smiled slightly and tilted her head. "Okay, Max. I think that I know what you mean. I do understand that you need time. I don't think that there's any harm in waiting... as long as we both promise to be faithful to each other. We can agree on that at least. Okay?"

I let out a sigh of relief. "Great, honey. Thanks, I really do appreciate that." I felt that I should add something to that, but I truly didn't know what else to say. It was all true though, I really didn't know how I felt and I hoped that time would tell.

***************

So we maintained the status quo and it was good. I was in no hurry to change things and Jackie didn't press me for any answers. It was about two months after our little "talk" when Sam Able came into my office. 

"Max, don't forget Kenny's bachelor party this Friday night. You're supposed to make the presentation of the "golden ball and chain" so make it funny."

No, I hadn't forgotten, but I had been putting off writing my "speech." I was to be the MC for the evening and luckily I had time to write up a few jokes, etc. as I presented a gilded symbolic "ball and chain," a mock up that we had designed a few years back for those of us who had given up our bachelorhood. I had a few days, I'd look on the net and steal something funny. 

On Thursday evening I reminded Jackie that I had the bachelor party for Kenny the following evening and that I'd be there kind of late, so we probably wouldn't see each other that day. 

The smile left her face quickly. "What bachelor party? You never mentioned a bachelor party, Max. What about my reunion? It's tomorrow evening and you said that you would take me." I could hear her voice go up a few decibels. 

Shit, shit, shit - I did forget. She told me about it so long ago that I had totally forgotten. I knew she would be angry, but I just couldn't skip the bachelor party. Shit, I was the MC, the "host" for the evening. I had to make Jackie understand. 

"Jackie, you've got to understand, I just can't cancel this. I'm the Master of Ceremonies and I've got to be there. I'm really sorry, honey. I know you're disappointed, but I'll make it up to you, I swear I will." Shit, that sounded weak even to me. 

Her mouth tightened into a grim line and her eyes bored holes into me. Jackie picked up her purse and quickly left, slamming the door behind her. Damn it, she just doesn't understand how important this is. I'll let her cool down and make nice later. She'll understand. 

The next day was a busy one. I tried to call Jackie a couple of times without success, but I just shrugged off any hint that she was avoiding me. I just didn't have time to do more. The caterers were taken care of as well as the booze. The large hotel suite had been rented for the night - two large bedrooms for any of the guys who drank too much and wanted to sleep it off, and a large living room with two huge sofas and a bunch of easy chairs scattered about. The "entertainment" was being taken care of by Sam Able and he was totally mum about that. I imagined that he had hired a stripper for the evening and I guess that the prospective bridegroom was going to be the center of attraction for her. 

All in all there would be eight of us there. Sam, Kenny, two guys from work, three of Kenny's buddies and myself. Not a large crowd, thank goodness. Mike Cooper couldn't make it, he had to be out of town that weekend. Maybe if he had been there, things may have gone a bit differently.

To make a long story short, it didn't take very long before I felt the drinks taking effect. I made the obligatory "ball and chain" presentation and everyone groaned at my attempt at humor. Everyone was horsing around, eating and especially drinking up a storm. There was some kind of porn video playing on the large screen TV to which most of us were paying scant attention. The food was good, the drinks better. I have to admit that it wasn't long before I was feeling no pain. 

But I was not that far gone not to feel astonishment when the "stripper" came into the suite. Sonofabitch, it was Bonnie. Yeah, Bonnie Shore, the greater bitch. How the hell had Sam persuaded her to do this? What the fuck; right then I didn't care - I was going to sit back and enjoy this. She may be a bitch, but I remembered her body from that time at the cabin. I wondered how far she would go.

It wasn't long before Bonnie was the center of attraction. I was starting to feel woozy from the liquor, but I didn't worry about it. I'd just sleep it off right here in the suite, so I didn't limit myself. Soon everyone had quieted down, there was some music playing, something with a tropic beat to it. It almost lulled me to sleep, but then I saw Bonnie start to sway with the music. She was standing in the center of the room, all the guys clustered around her on the sofas and chairs. Damn, she was sensual. 

I'm not really sure how the rest of the evening progressed. Yeah, I admit it, I really got shitfaced. I know I sat there and watched Bonnie slowly strip down to a half bra and thong panties. It seemed that she was glancing at me and smirking. Soon, with a small flourish, her bra was on the floor and her tits exposed, the pink nipples turgid, pointing at us. All eyes traveled to her crotch as she lowered her thong panties and I again saw the lovely snatch. Shit, my vision was blurred and I tried to focus to no avail. 

The rest of the evening was a jumble of scenes, none of which made too much sense. But...but, I can't claim total unconsciousness, I knew what I had done. I had fucked Bonnie. I may have been drunk as a lord, but I certainly remembered boffing her on the floor of that suite. I don't know where the other guys were, they didn't seem to be around. And, as if to confirm that delusion (if I had attempted to claim that even to myself) waking up in bed with a naked Bonnie the following morning soon destroyed that deception. 

My head was pounding and I had a sour taste in my mouth, but my shock at seeing Bonnie lying there beside me, on her back, legs slightly parted, soon made forget my physical pain. I saw the bite marks on her tits and the state of her pussy. Memories of the previous evening came flooding back. Shit, shit, I had fucked her - on the floor and in this bed. I was drunk, I tried to excuse myself with that thought - but it was all bullshit. 

The bile rose in my throat and I was lucky to have made it to the bathroom where I gave up the contents of my stomach. My mouth felt worse and I gargled with some hotel mouthwash. Looking back into the bedroom, I saw that Bonnie had not budged, was still snoring softly. I turned my head quickly from her, quietly dressed and softly closed the door of the suite behind me. I knew that it would be awhile before I could think straight, but I knew, I knew that I had screwed up royally. How the hell could I have done this? I told myself that I just wasn't that kind of person, so how could I have done this?

I drove home very slowly, still feeling nauseous, my headache still driving nails into my eyes. I finally made it, staggered inside and made my way into the bathroom. I stripped and stood under a hot shower for what seemed like ages. After awhile I turned the water to cold and stood there shivering until I finally closed the tap. I dragged myself to the lav and swallowed about 4 aspirin, moved to my bed and collapsed. I don't know what time I finally awoke, but it was getting dark outside. I thought about food and felt my stomach turn a bit.

I got up, put a robe on and went into my kitchen where I put a pot of coffee up. It was then that I saw the envelope sitting on the table. My name was on the front and I recognized Jackie's handwriting. My stomach turned again and my headache worsened. I just knew that what was in that fucking envelope was not going to be good news. With a trembling hand I picked it up and extracted what was inside.

My Dearest Max I am sorry, I truly mean that. I am sorry for the pain you must be experiencing right now. I know that you deserve an explanation for that. You have to remember, Max, I blamed you, at least in part, for the pain you caused Tina before your divorce. You were cruel to her. You should have forgiven her, Max. Yes, yes, I know - what she did was wrong, but it was without premeditation and was, in large part, not her fault. But you were so damned unforgiving, so cold, not allowing an inch for human frailty. We wanted to teach you a lesson, Max, so after out first meeting in that bar, when you acted so cavalier about your breakup, we decided that we were going to teach you a hard lesson, a lesson in humility. Yes, I enlisted Sam Able to help me. He was reluctant at first, but he felt that I may have a point and that perhaps you would then understand how people can screw up - that's what makes them human, Max. Sam got Bonnie to help. how I don't know. You know how Bonnie feels about you, so that was a surprise to me. Listen, Max, there was absolutely no malicious intent. We both agreed that you needed to see the other side of the coin, so to speak. So you screwed up also, Max - and you weren't even drugged. It's not difficult to screw up, is it? But something happened that I didn't anticipate. I started to fall for you. That wasn't supposed to happen, but it did. So I am going to disappear; don't even think about looking for me. I've resigned and accepted a new position out of town. You don't love me, Max, we both know that. You know the person you do love - so do something about that, you idiot. Love Jackie 




What Goes Around... Ch. 02



I sat for a long moment, not quite understanding the contents of that letter. "It was all a sham? Everything was a joke? She strung me along to teach me a fucking lesson?" I screamed silently. 

I lurched to my feet, knocking the chair over. I was shaking with anger. "The fucking bitch, I was right all along. No, no I wasn't - SHE was the major bitch, Bonnie was a distant second. How the fuck could she do that? What kind of Machiavellian mind did she have. And Sam... Sam Able, my friend...shit, my ex friend, the sonofabitch. Teach me a lesson, huh? I'll tear that fucker apart, limb by limb," the words shrieking in my mind. 

I picked up an empty vase from the counter and flung it against the wall, enjoying the sound of the pottery shattering. I paced the kitchen and then moved into the living room. I felt like putting my fist through the wall, but common sense was beginning to overcome my rage. I wasn't about to injure myself.

"Fuck it," I screamed aloud and slammed my fist into the wall. I again screamed, but this time in pain. Shit, shit, shit - I had hit a stud, I had broken my fuckin' hand. After jumping around in pain for a bit, I calmed down a bit and stuck my hand in some ice from the freezer. The stupidity of what I had done and the pain resulting from that stupidity finally calmed me down. The rage had subsided and reason began to take hold. I just sat there, my hand in a dish of ice, feeling like shit, totally empty now. 

I felt the tears start. I blinked, trying to control my emotions, to no avail. I felt myself sobbing, the tears flowing down my cheeks. I cradled my head in my uninjured hand, just letting it all out. I finally calmed myself, wiping my nose and mopping my brow with a paper towel. "Is this what my life has come to?" I asked myself. "Sitting here, feeling sorry for yourself. Alone." 

"Where had it gone so wrong. Was I really such a cold-hearted monster?" The questions I kept asking myself were creating answers that I didn't like, didn't like one bit. I kept sitting there, in the kitchen, my injured hand starting to get numb from the cold. 

My rage was now gone, my stomach roiling. I felt physically ill, perhaps from the sudden realization that maybe, just maybe, some of the things Jackie had accused me of were right. Did I fuck up that badly? Was I that much of a prick? Was she right? The vague thoughts began to crystalize, and my iron curtain began to shatter. It was then that I finally came to grips with myself, realizing what I had allowed myself to become.

Yes, Tina had screwed up, but she had acknowledged that and came to terms with it. I had not. I felt destroyed by her adultery, but now I realized that I was not only hurt by what she had done, but also that my "manly" pride had been wounded, so that while Tina had fucked up royally, I did not handle the whole incident wisely. I had nursed my hurt - no, not only nursed it, I had hidden behind an iron curtain, not allowing anyone in, shutting everyone out. What a stupid fool, my intransigence had lost me the only woman I had ever loved.

My musings were interrupted by the doorbell. I looked up in surprise. Could it be Jackie? Had she come back? Did I want her? No, I knew that it wasn't her and I also knew that she was right in at least one respect. I didn't love her. I liked her, but I knew that it wasn't love.

I shuffled to the door and opened it. My eyes widened as I saw Sam Able standing there. I tried to clench my hand into a fist and grimaced from the pain. He smiled a bit wryly and pushed his way past me. "You cocksucker, you've got the balls to even show up here?" I muttered, half-heartedly .

"Shut the fuck up, Max." he replied calmly. "I'm here because I'm your friend and you'll realize that after awhile." Saying that, he plopped himself into my easy chair.

"Sit down, Max," he continued. "Just sit the fuck down and listen to me."

The fight, the anger, it all just seeped away. I again felt the emptiness, the feeling of isolation. The epiphany that I had just experienced left me weak and depressed. 

I saw Sam start to smile somewhat sympathetically. He nodded and said, "I guess I don't have to tell you anything, do I? You've finally figured it out."

I tried to return his smile, but it was more like a facial contortion. "I guess I fucked up, didn't I?" I thought for a moment and continued. "I guess we both fucked up, but I was as much to blame as Tina."

"True, and that's why Tina gave in, she set you free. She knew that she messed up, but you didn't realize that you did also by how you reacted. You just blamed her, you didn't see your part in the breakup."

"So you guys set out to teach me a lesson," I groused. "That wasn't very nice, Sam. I should really be pissed - I just can't get up the energy." It was true, I felt totally enervated. 

"By the way," I muttered. "How the hell did you get Bonnie to go along with you, especially since I know that she hates my guts?"

Sam chucked. "That was easy. I had discovered that she had been screwing one of the vps of her company, and he's married. If it came out, both of them would be toast. So I blackmailed her to go along."

I got up, went to the fridge and got a couple of beers. I tossed one to Sam and uncapped the remaining one. Raising the bottle in a toast, took a long gulp. 

"What now, Sam? What the fuck do I do now?" I wondered aloud. I knew that was stupid as soon as the words left my mouth. I knew what I had to do and I didn't need anyone to tell me. What I didn't know is how to begin or how successful I'd be. I did know that both Tina and I had been through the fire of infidelity and its aftermath. Had that conflagration destroyed any chance we might have for the future?

Sam got up to leave and he patted me on the back as he was going out the door and said, "You'll figure it out, Max. You're not stupid."

(To be concluded)



What Goes Around... Ch. 03



I got up the following morning and staggered to the bathroom where I swallowed more aspirin. I was still feeling the after effects of that damn bachelor party. I got totally shitfaced and, despite promises of fidelity made to Jackie, I had fucked Bonnie. I know, I know, I was drunk as a skunk, but I knew that was a bullshit reason. 

I had shut my ears to any excuses concerning Tina's infidelity - I just shut her out, despite the fact that it wasn't all her fault. Now I had to face my own hypocrisy, my own human frailty. Jackie and Sam had been successful, they had set out to teach me a hard lesson and it had hit home. I finally realized what an idiot I had been, what a cold hearted bastard. I had lost the love of my life due to my own stupidity and now I had to figure a way to get her back. My problem was that I didn't have the foggiest notion as to how I was going to do that.

I was startled by the ringing of the telephone. I glanced at the clock and saw that it was after 9 am. It was Sam Able.

"Max, you up for some golf this morning? I can pick you up in half an hour. Get your ass moving."

"Sam, I can't. My head has a marching band trooping through and I'm sick to my stomach. Plus, I have to figure a way to get Tina back and I'm drawing a blank. I feel like shit, I can't think."

"I'll be right over. Put on some coffee," he replied and clicked off.

True to his word Sam showed up at my door in under half an hour. He walked into the kitchen and helped himself to a mug of coffee and joined me in the den where I had resumed my seat on the sofa by the end table on which my own coffee was perched.

"Okay, Max. What's the big problem? For a smart guy you sure can act dumb sometimes. Figure it out. What's the first thing that you've got to do?" Max lectured me.

I just looked at him and shook my head. "It's no use, Sam. Tina's not going to listen to me. Too much crap has passed between us. She fucked up and then I fucked up even more. She initiated the divorce - I'm sure that she doesn't want anything more to do with me."

Sam just looked at me, a disgusted expression on his face. "Do you want her back, Max? or are you just going to sit and whine and feel sorry for yourself. Are you absolutely positive that she doesn't have any interest in getting back with you? One hundred percent sure?" he asked.

"Okay, Sam. Okay. Knock it off. No, I'm not one hundred percent sure, it's just what I feel. Goddamnit, I don't know what to do."

"For pity sake, Max. The first thing that you've got to do is take some vacation time and go down to Atlanta. You can't even begin this task if you're not even in the same damn city where she is. That's your first step," he snapped at me.

I flushed. I felt embarrassed, where were my mental faculties? I couldn't even think straight. Sam was right, of course. Why couldn't I have realized that that was the first thing I had to do. I shook my head, trying to clear the cobwebs from my mind.

Sam just laughed. "Don't worry, Max. You're not losing it. It's just so new to you. I bet you've never had to admit that you really fucked up in the past, at least not as badly as this. You'll get it all figured out. Just go in tomorrow and request some vacation time. It's slow now, you shouldn't have any trouble."

And that's exactly what I did. First thing Monday morning I went into Mike Cooper's office and asked for a couple of weeks off. Mike looked at me and nodded. "I think that's a damn good idea, Max. Go do what you have to," and he smiled. 

********************

I was able to get a flight that morning and was checking into my hotel by the early afternoon. There was a Hertz desk in the lobby and I made arrangements for a rental car. As I unpacked I knew that I had to begin to develop a course of action. Right now I was totally clueless as to how to begin to confront Tina and ask her to talk to me. What if she just tells me to fuck off? Oh, oh - what if she's seeing someone, someone she's serious about. That hadn't occurred to me. Sonofabitch, what if she's engaged or worse yet, already married. That took the wind out of my sails and I suddenly had to sit down.

Okay, my brain started to work again. First thing I had to determine was if she was involved with anyone. If I found that she was in a serious relationship, I wouldn't turn her life upside down again. She had messed up her life once and I just had made it worse. She deserved a clean start. So.......... how do I determine that? I sat and thought that over. Okay, I would get as much information as I could about what was happening in her life. I would follow her, that would tell me if she was seeing anyone seriously. I know, a plan fraught with potential danger, but it seemed to make sense at the time.

I grabbed the telephone directory and looked for Canney, Tina. Nothing listed. Did she had an unlisted number? Oh, oh...... another thought came into my feeble brain and I hastily turned the pages of the phone book. Shit, there it was....Wallace, Tina. She had taken back her maiden name. Not a good sign. I wondered if this whole effort was nothing more than a waste of time, but I jotted down her address. I also looked up the address of her company and jotted that down also. Okay, I was ready for my campaign to garner information - like I was some kind of Sam Spade, for those who remember that fictional detective. 

I went down to the lobby, bought a street map and headed out to where she lived. Fortunately, it only took about 20 minutes. I pulled into the parking area and looked about me. It seemed that Tina lived in an apartment complex, far from new, but it did look like it was well maintained. I looked for her address and found that she lived in a first floor unit. I also noticed a sign in front of the building: Units Available For Lease, and I had a brainstorm.

I walked into the leasing office, off the main lobby. The girl behind the desk looked at me enquiringly: "Good afternoon, can I help you?"

"Yeah, is it possible to inspect a unit? I will be transferring into the city and saw your sign."

"Of course, let me call Sharon for you, Mr..........?" a question in her voice.

"Conner. Scott Conner, I easily lied, but I could feel my face flush.

A few seconds later a woman, about 45 I would guess, came out and introduced herself as Sharon Tyler and volunteered to take me into a model apartment. She spoke as we walked, telling me about the monthly rental and lease terms. I listened with half an ear.

We entered another first floor unit and I looked about. In front of me was a spacious L shaped living-dining room with a fairly small kitchen off the L. I saw two door at either end and asked about the bedrooms. 

"All of the units are layed out exactly like this one, Mr. Conner. All have two bedrooms and two baths - either could be considered a master suite since they are virtually identical. Come, let me show you," she said as she opened one door and then the other. Fairly large rooms with large windows letting in a lot of light. One had a master bath and looked out on the front of the building while the other bathroom had an entry off a small hallway. This bedroom looked out on the back, a wooded area. I was impressed.

"And you say that all of the units here are identical in terms of layout?" I asked.

"That's correct." she replied and continued. "When do you think that you will be making a decision. We only have two units left for lease."

"Soon, Ms. Tyler. Very soon," I lied again as she led me out.

********************

I sat behind the wheel of the car, deep in thought. Why would Tina be renting a two bedroom unit? Was that significant? I could feel myself getting nervous, seeing problems where none existed perhaps. I shook my head, started the car and headed out for Tina's workplace. Again I saw that it wasn't far, perhaps another 20 minutes. I pulled into the parking lot to the side of the front entrance to the building. Slowly driving along the lanes it didn't take long for me to recognize Tina's maroon Camry. The two small dents in the left rear section told me that it was her car even though it now had Georgia plates.

I glanced at my watch which told me that it was almost 5 pm, quiting time I imagined and parked in the far corner of the lot. I knew that I was taking a chance, but I felt fairly confident that she wouldn't see me, especially in this rented car. It didn't take long before I saw a stream of people exiting the side of the building, all headed to their cars. It was then that I saw Tina and I thought that my heart would stop. She looked lovely in a tailored pair of slacks and long sleeved blouse. 

It appeared that she had cut her dark hair and there was a crown of ringlets which only enhanced the dark, sparkling eyes. Yes, even at this distance I could tell that she was animated and seemed happy. What had I expected - that she would be drawn, pale, waiting for me to come on my white charger and rescue her from her loneliness? Shit, what I fool I had become.

She was smiling and in conversation with another woman, a blond, slim gal about Tina's height and........a guy. There was a guy in the group, tall, dark haired. The three of them were walking to the cars, laughing at something the guy had said. I felt my head start to pound and I had to fight down a feeling of nausea. "Shit," I muttered to myself. "Get a hold of yourself."

They arrived at Tina's car and the two women entered, waving at the guy who wandered over to another car, a bright red Corvette. I breathed a sigh of relief and started to follow Tina as she drove out of the parking lot. I followed them to the apartment complex and saw both enter Tina's unit.

I saw for awhile and gathered my thoughts. Okay, it looks as if both Tina and the blond were sharing the apartment. There were two bedrooms, one for each of them. This looked promising, perhaps Tina was not in any kind of relationship with any guy. Perhaps that guy in the parking lot was just a co-worker, just a casual friend. Okay, okay, this looked okay. 

Then a stray thought entered my head. I started to talk to myself, shit this was getting to be a habit. "Hey, schmuck - why are you fucking around like a fool? Why not just go see her? Talk to her. Tell her what's in your heart."

"No, no," I told myself. "What if she turns her back on me? What if she doesn't want to talk to me?" I was afraid, I was just too fearful. I again shook my head, brushing aside those thoughts. 

"Hey, moron....listen to yourself. It's not like you're the only fuck-up here. Don't forget her part in this mess. She screwed up and you made it worse. You're both to blame." the little voice yammered.

"Shut up, shut up, shut up," I screamed silently. "Enough, no more." I just didn't want to hear anymore. At this point I was totally confused, unable to come up with any meaningful course of action. I was just about to start the car up and leave when my heart jumped into my throat. Out of the corner of my eye I saw the approach of a bright red Corvette which parked next to Tina's Camry. The same guy got out of the car carrying a large paper sack. He approached Tina's front door and entered without knocking or pausing.

I sat there, frozen, the motor running, for a few moments. It was then that a calm came over me. I put the car in gear and drove back to the hotel. I had a lot of thinking to do and I knew that I wasn't going to get any answers or decide on what I had to do until I became more rational. I knew that I had been behaving like a blithering idiot and it was now time to settle down and reason out the situation.

Fortunately the room had the makings for coffee and I busied myself for a few moments with that while wolfing down a club sandwich that I had ordered from room service It didn't take long before I was sitting in a chair, gazing out at the landscape, mulling over the information I now had. Okay, what did I actually KNOW? One - I knew exactly where Tina worked. Two - I knew where she lived. Three - I knew what she drove and now the license number. 

Now what didn't I know for sure, but could logically surmise? One - it appeared that she lived with the blonde gal, sharing the apartment. Two - it appeared that that guy was either a "friend" (yeah, like I believed that) or the blonde was involved with him or.......he was a "friend" of Tina's. 

Shit, I had nothing, really. I was back to square one. I recalled my previous vow: I would do nothing if Tina was in a serious relationship - I didn't want to screw up her life. I sat back and sighed: "now what?" I asked myself. Okay, more snooping, I needed more information.

So I spent the rest of that week following Tina. I was there when she left work, always with that blond gal, both getting into Tina's car and going to their apartment. I also noted that Tina didn't leave her apartment after she returned from work. It looked like no more mid week outings to the lounge or bar scenes. I started to feel a little better - that guy didn't show up there again, at least not that week. It was Friday when things started to unravel.

I was again parked near the exit of the building where Tina worked. It was almost 5 o'clock and I was anticipating seeing Tina and her friend again. Sure enough they appeared, laughing as they approached Tina's car. I caught my breath as I saw that guy with the Corvette approach them and engage them in conversation. Damn, I would have loved to have heard what they were talking about. They didn't stand there long though and both girls were soon in the car headed out. I followed them as usual and was a little relieved when they parked and went into the apartment.

I recognized that I had been really antsy that day and finally recognized that perhaps it was because it was a Friday and I knew how Tina loved getting out on the weekend and party. There would be no worry about getting up early for work so she could stay out as long as she was having fun. Was this going to be one of those nights? I was uneasy, not knowing what to expect. 

Also, by this time I was getting very uncomfortable snooping around and stalking Tina. I knew that it really wasn't right, what I was doing, and I knew that Tina would be furious if she knew, but what other choice did I have (I kept saying to myself, trying to justify my actions). I sighed and drove across the street to the diner there, as I had been doing for the last few days. I could still keep my eye on their apartment from the booth on the street side, although I doubt if I could move fast enough to follow them if they left suddenly. I quickly wolfed down a small dinner, walked quickly to my car and drove back to the parking lot to resume my watch.

By 10 pm I was pleasantly surprised that the girls had not yet exited their unit and I saw that the lights were still on behind the drapes. I was happy about that, perhaps Tina had changed and didn't care for the noise and crowds as she used to. Perhaps her betrayal and our subsequent break-up caused a change in her. Was I spinning fairy tales in my head?

It was still a bit early - perhaps they would be leaving soon. I was still sitting there, my thoughts giving me a headache when I saw the bright red Corvette pull into the parking lot and park near Tina's unit. He exited his car and I saw he was carrying a small overnight case. He sauntered to the apartment door and entered without knocking. Shit, it sure looked as if he was expected and it also looked as if he expected to be spending the night.

I sat there, flummoxed, not knowing what to think. Was this guy Tina's or was he the blonde's boyfriend? How the hell do I find out? I sat there like a schmuck, my head pounding now, trying not to give in to the sour feeling in my stomach. I was really coming to the conclusion that Tina had moved on and it looked like any attempt on my part to get back together with her was futile. I know, I was basing that on very inconclusive evidence, but my emotions were getting the better of me.

So, because of that, I did something really stupid. Then again, this whole "plan" of mine had been stupid. I realized that I wasn't being entirely rational, but I was running out of options - at least that's what I thought. I got out of the car and casually, looking around carefully, strolled to the window of their apartment - the front bedroom window. I tried to listen, but heard nothing. I then walked around to the back and moved to the window of the bedroom in that location. I listened...... and heard muffled voices, male and female. I couldn't make out anything, but there were two people in there, of that I was sure.

As I moved away and started back, I suddenly saw a figure standing not far from me. He motioned me forward and I saw that he was pointing a goddamn gun at me. I broke out in a cold sweat. As I neared him he motioned for me to stop. He then took what appeared to be a billfold out and held it up for me to see - a shield and ID. Shit, he was a cop. We walked to the parking lot and he seemed to already know where my car was.

Standing by my car, he looked at me for a few moments and then holstered his gun. He looked at me again and then shook his head. 

"Listen carefully, buster. The only reason I haven't called for a squad car to take you downtown, is that you sure don't look like the typical burglar - you're just too stupid. I've been watching you for almost a week now and I want your story - and it had better be the truth. By the way, "he added as an aside, "I live in the apartment right about the one you've been so interested in."

I stood there for a moment, and then it all came pouring out. I told this cop everything, from the beginning. It was like a catharsis, like I was unburdening my soul. I started with the huge fight I had had with Tina, our divorce, the months after and right up to my idiotic attempt at playing being a private detective. I found myself sweating, tears running down my face, my nose leaking as I finished. The torrent of words was over, I felt drained yet the funny thing was that I felt better - better than I had felt in what seemed ages. Go figure.

The cop just stood there and stared at me. He asked for identification and I showed him my drivers license and work ID. "You know something?" he muttered. "All that sounds just dumb enough to be true." He then smiled, almost reluctantly and poked out his hand. "My name is Hank Elliot. Sorry if I frightened you back there, but my caution was justified - you were acting really strange."

I let out a sigh of relief, moping my face with a hanky. "Thanks, I know all of this is crazy, but I'm just trying to find out if Tina is involved with anyone. If she is, I don't want to complicate her life. I've done enough to mess things up, we both have."

Hank Elliot then turned and raised his voice. "Yo, Tina - heard enough?" he asked and to my horror and chagrin Tina came waltzing around the side of a van parked nearby. "Thanks Hank. Yes, I've heard enough, in fact more than enough. Thanks for calling me."

Hank chuckled and clapped me on the shoulder. "Okay, Max. You're on your own now. I hope you don't screw up," he said as he strolled back to the building.

I just stood there. I was embarrassed as hell and I expected Tina to really lay into me. I was so ashamed of myself that I couldn't even look at her. I just stood and awaited the tirade. After a few moments of silence, I glanced up at Tina and saw her smiling somewhat wryly and shaking her head as if to say - what am I going to do with you.

"Okay, Max. You want to know if I'm involved with anyone?" she asked softly. "That fellow in the apartment right now is Betty's fiancé. I guess you know that I am sharing the apartment with Betty, but she'll be moving out in a couple of weeks when they get married."

Tina wasn't smiling now and her voice was devoid of any emotion as she spoke. "What do you want, Max? Why the sudden interest in me now? You had made it quite clear that we had no future. You were quite voluble just now with Hank, but you never made clear just why you're here." She stood there, calmly awaiting answers from me.




What Goes Around... Ch. 03



I stood mute. Now that I was confronted, the speech that I had rehearsed in my head was totally forgotten. Then like a fool, I just blurted out the first think that came to me - "I love you, Tina. I can't stop loving you."

I was looking at her now. I saw her flush and her eyes blaze for a moment. I thought, "now it comes, now she's going to roast me over a fire." But she said nothing. She then sighed and said softly, "Look, Max. This really isn't the time and certainly not the place for this kind of discussion." 

She reached up and slid her hand across my cheek and I could see the unshed tears in her eyes. "Max, come to dinner tomorrow. Betty will be away with Jim for the weekend, in fact they're leaving soon. We can be alone and talk. Come around 6 and bring some wine. We'll eat and talk. Is that okay, Max?"

I stood mute and just nodded. Tina smiled and suddenly reached up and gave me a quick kiss. She then turned and went back into the building. I looked up and could see Hank Elliot at his window. He waved and moved out of sight. 

Suffice it to say, we did just that. I returned the following evening. Tina had made dinner, we sat and ate, albeit awkwardly at first. Then we both relaxed and Tina told me what her life had been like and I did the same. After dinner we sat in the living room and talked - and talked - and talked. 

We found that we both had changed. Tina had realized that she wasn't very discriminating when it came to trusting others. She had also discovered that relationships needed much more attention that she had realized. To me she seemed much more mature and thoughtful - more insightful. I also had changed somewhat. I found myself being more sensitive to others and to situations. I had given my marriage too little attention, just giving in, not sharing any misgivings I may have had. I also discovered that being in love meant a lot more than just living together.

We didn't leap into each others arms. We sat and did what Tina wanted - we just talked. I stayed in Atlanta for another week and saw Tina every day. We walked, we sat, and we talked - learning new things about the people we had become. No, we didn't run to get married. We were..... we were....courting? Jeez, an old fashioned word, but apt, I guess. Maybe we should have done more of that before we had gotten married.

I returned from Atlanta, but kept in touch with Tina. I either traveled down there or she came up to see me. I hope that eventually we'll be together again. I think that we'll be much better spouses now, more understanding, more mature. I love Tina and she still loves me - we've established that. Now to see where all this goes.

The End