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Closer Ch. 01

By: FatalCharm



Hey guys. I'm working on chapter two and it should be posted soon so hang on tight. Oh and expect LONGER CHAPTERS in the future. 

~ Much Love,

Taryn

*

Kimberly stared at herself in the mirror anxiously, running her hands over her outfit trying desperately to wipe away the imaginary wrinkles. She looked back at her reflection and chewed her bottom lip softly smearing her cherry lip gloss on her two front teeth. 'Shit', she thought to herself. 'Why did I let Justin talk me into this?' she asked, dreading her decision to go.

Justin had been her best friend since second grade. He was new to the elementary school where they both attended and she was the first person to befriend him. He was painfully timid until puberty hit at the beginning of junior high. After that he was as confident as a male model who knew they were basically God's gift to women...and men. Girls basically threw their panties in his direction every time he walked past them. His reputation as the "hot guy" in school earned him a one way ticket into the popular circle, while Kimberly maintained her status as a "nobody."

While many people would've assumed he'd ditch Kim after his rise in popularity, he proved them wrong. After he had started hanging around with those popular snobs at their school like Mackenzie Myers and Rory Willis, Kim was certain that she would become invisible to her best friend, but she was surprised when she hadn't. Justin even tried to include her in the stupid after school activities the group did even though she felt out of place. Some people in the group weren't bad people, but most were fake assholes and Kim could see right through their bullshit. She knew which people liked her and the many who didn't, which was the main reason she was nervous about going to Mackenzie's party.

She knew for a fact that Mackenzie did not like her at all. In fact she remembered the time she heard Justin and Mackenzie talking in a small pizza place close to the school. Mackenzie had obnoxiously whispered, "Why are you still hanging around with that black chick?" To which Justin ignored and continued to eat his pizza. Kim really didn't care what Mackenzie thought because in her eyes she was a dumb, fake blonde, plastic Barbie doll who was extremely annoying. 'This is gonna be a long night,' she told herself before she heard three loud pops outside her window. She sighed at the familiar sound of gunshots and stepped away from the mirror.

"We have to get out of this neighborhood," she whispered loudly to herself.

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

Mackenzie was practically radiating with joy and excitement from head to toe. Two months. Two fucking long months was how long she'd been planning this party and it was finally happening tonight. In just another hour her guest would be arriving, including Justin. 

She wanted Justin so bad. What warm blooded female with a brain wouldn't? He had dirty blond hair that he styled in a faux hawk and eyes that seemed to pierce right through her body and his smile. Goddamn his smile was enough for her to cream her panties. The only person standing in her way was his little friend, Kimberly.

'What he sees in that poor, little black bitch is beyond me,' she thought with disgust. Kimberly lived on the bad side of town where all the drug dealers, thugs and prostitutes resided. Her mom was even a prostitute at some point and even today she'd slept with men to pay her bills. Mackenzie believed that if Kim's mom was doing it then so was Kim. Whenever Mackenzie would say something mean about Kim to Justin he would get very defensive and it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that he was protective of her. 'If only he was that protective of me,' she thought with a loud exasperated sigh. Then the thought of what she was going to do to Kim tonight made her laugh for a moment.

As her laughter died down he focus shifted from Kim back to Justin. Oh just thinking about all the stuff she wanted to do to him and all the things she wanted him to do to her instantly made her wet again. 

She walked over to her bed and lay down. She brought her hands up to her breast and squeezed firmly, imagining her hands were Justin's. She brought her left hand to the front of her jeans and rubbed her crotch through the material. She softly moaned his name until she heard the familiar tune of "Dirrty" by Christina Aguilera. She groaned loudly and looked at the caller ID; it was Andrew. The thought of him quickly made her horniness vanish.

"Hello?" she asked when she finally decided to answer. She listened to him talk about his day and every once in a while she would add an 'Oh wow,' or 'Really?' She was really focusing on Justin. Even though Andrew was technically her boyfriend, she knew he cheated on her multiple times so in her opinion that gave her a right to cheat too.

'Oh well. A girl can never have too much dick,' she thought with a smile. 

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

The party was already started by the time Justin arrived. As he made his way inside Mackenzie's huge house he pushed past the crowds searching for Kimberly. He ended up getting slightly buzzed before the party and was in no condition to drive his jeep so he got a ride with one of his friends, Dino. Unfortunately, Dino was scared of "getting shot" in Kim's neighborhood so he wouldn't pick her up. He hoped she would still be able to make it even though he felt kind of shitty for making her catch the bus. 

He was walking towards the pool when he saw the unmistakable platinum blonde hair of Mackenzie walk up to him.

"Well hello." She said while handing him a drink. He gladly accepted and began to drink while she continued making pointless conversation. "My cousin knows the DJ. He's like one of the hottest newcomers on this side of the equator." She said while flipping her hair over her shoulder. She was sporting a wide, unattractive smile that showed all of her top and bottom teeth.

"Have you seen Kim?" Justin asked while scanning the room. Mackenzie's toothy smile quickly faded and she scoffed, or at least tried to.

"You know for the life of me I can't figure out why you still hang out with the nasty, trashy slut." She stated while folding her arms. Her anger was obvious, but Justin was starting to get frustrated. He closed his eyes tightly and held his breath. After about twenty seconds he finally exhaled and opened his eyes to look at the angry blonde.

"That's not what I asked you. Have you seen Kim? It's a simple yes or no question." He replied in an annoyed tone. He really wanted to get away from Mackenzie and he was not in the mood for her bullshit. It was obvious that she wanted him, but he would never go for her; she was too bitchy. Mackenzie rolled her eyes and pointed upstairs.

"I saw her a couple of hours ago when the party started. Then about ten minutes ago I saw her going upstairs with some random guy." She replied before flipping her hair again. 

"What?" Justin asked getting a little worked up. Kim wouldn't do something like that. She didn't hook up with random boys at parties; she was a virgin. At least as far as he knew she was a virgin. "What guy?" he asked.

"Like I'm supposed to know. All I know is she was super drunk and headed upstairs toward one of the guest rooms with some guy who had dark hair." Mackenzie exclaimed with a shrug of her slender shoulders. Justin was heated. Some guy was going to take advantage of his friend. His apparently very drunk friend. He wasted no more time. He ran upstairs as fast as his legs would allow him.

Shit! Mackenzie had four maybe five guest rooms. Didn't matter to him though, he'd kick all of those doors down if he had to. He walked over to door number 1 and knocked as hard as he could. 

"Kim?" he half asked- half screamed. The door finally opened revealing Marcie and Lilly, two lesbians at the school. "Sorry." He apologized before the door closed in his face.

He walked over to door number 2 across the hall and knocked. He called out Kim's name until the door opened to reveal Andrew and some brunette who was definitely not Mackenzie. He looked at her in surprise and turned to give his friend a knowing smile. "Sorry, man. Have fun." He stated before walking over to door number 3.

He began knocking on the door anxiously. "Kim?" he called out her name until he heard a weak reply. "Justin? Is that you?" the voice asked. 

"Kim? Kim, open the door." He commanded. He felt relief wash over him, but also anxiety. He flexed his fingers and balled them getting ready to knock someone out if they touched her. After what seemed like eternity, but was only about forty-five seconds, the door finally opened. He felt his jaw tense when he saw the guy that had been on the other side of the door with Kim. He was shirtless with the button undone on his jeans.

"We're busy." The shirtless guys stated with a pissed off expression. Justin restrained himself from punching that guy in his nose.

"Not anymore." Justin exclaimed as he pushed past the guy and made his way into the room. He grabbed the guy's shirt from off the floor and threw it towards him. The guy caught the shirt before he felt himself being pushed out of the room. Justin slammed the door and locked it. He turned slowly to face Kim who was lying peacefully on the bed. 

He walked over towards her and sat down beside her body. He rubbed the outline of her jaw softly before he ran his fingers through her soft black hair. She looked up at him in confusion. "Where did Jerry go? No wait, I think his name was John." She said softly. 

"What did he do to you?" He demanded while taking in her appearance. Her lips were red and swollen obviously from making out with Jerry or John. Her raven black hair was tousled all around the pillow she was laying her head on and her skirt was bunched around her shapely thighs.

"Nothing. You got here before we did anything." She replied slightly slurring her words. 

"Come on I'm taking you home." He said while pulling her arms until she rose up into a sitting position. She surprised him when she violently pulled her arms out of his grasp. 

"I'm not going anywhere with you. You're drunk." She stated. 

"Not as drunk as you. Now let's go." He replied as she ran her fingers down his cheek and then let them travel to his lips. Just how drunk was she?

"And how do you suppose we do that? You didn't drive your car here and the person you came with is scared of my neighborhood." She retorted softly. 

"Then we'll take the bus or the subway." He replied before she shook her head 'no.' 

"No. Let's just stay here. I can think of much better things we could be doing than taking the bus." She exclaimed. Before Justin had a chance to ask her to clarify the meaning behind those words he felt her soft lips press against his. Her soft, plump, luscious lips seemed to match perfectly with his and her cherry lip gloss made him crave her kiss even more. He parted her lips with his tongue and she granted him entrance into her mouth. He massaged her tongue with his before he felt her fingertips at the end of his shirt. 

She began lifting his shirt and broke their kiss only for a second in order to finish removing it. Kim ran her fingers across his toned stomach and chest before she brought her head down to lightly flick his nipple with her tongue. That small move sent off little fireworks in his brain and electric jolts through his body. Kim's mouth claimed his again and he felt her pulling him down on the bed. A moment later he was nestled comfortably between her smooth caramel thighs. He broke off their passionate kiss and moved to her neck and bit and sucked at the tender flesh. He could feel her lightly grinding her body into his and it was turning him on even more.

"I want you, Justin. I need you." She whispered in between a small moan. She whispered it again in his ear softly, letting the effect of her words sink in. She reached for the buckle on his pants and that's when reality hit Justin with full force. 

THIS WAS KIM! His best friend since second grade and he was about to fuck her. No, he couldn't do this with her. Not when she was drunk, not at some stupid party. She deserved better than that; she deserved better than him.

Justin pulled away from her and staggered off the bed. He picked up his shirt from the end of the bed and quickly put it on. He looked over in Kim's direction and noticed the confused look on her face.

"Justin, what's wrong?" she asked.

"Come on I have to take you home." He replied, turning his back towards her. She hopped off the bed and sauntered over to him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her head on his back.

"Justin, it's ok. I want this." She exclaimed. Justin turned around to face her and looked deep into her eyes. She had the most beautiful brown eyes he'd ever seen. He could get lost in them. "I love you, Justin." She whispered before standing on the tips of her toes and leaning in to kiss him. He pushed her away softly. 

"I love you too, Kimmy, but I'm not in love with you." He replied as smoothly as he could. He was lying. He knew that he was in love with her, but he also knew she was too good for a guy like him and he'd never forgive himself if he hurt her. He saw the wounded look in her eyes and wanted so badly to tell her the truth. He opened his mouth to tell her how he truly felt, but all that came out was, "Come on, get your stuff and let's go."

Closer Ch. 02



Hey all! This chapter is much longer and I hoped you enjoy. The new chapter will be out soon.

 ~Taryn 

*

Kim woke up the next morning in her bed with the sunlight beaming in her face. She sat upright and rubbed her eyes, cursing herself for not closing the blinds last night. 'Wait, how did I even get home last night?' she asked herself. Shit. She couldn't remember anything that happened. This was strange considering she only had two beers or whatever that alcoholic substance was and some punch. 

She glanced over at the dresser near her bed and saw the white piece of paper being held down by a glass of water. She picked it up and read the contents of the note. Apparently Justin brought her home last night and he hoped her hangover wouldn't be too bad in the morning. She didn't have a hangover. In fact she felt fine even though most of the night had been one big, gigantic blur. She groaned as she pulled back the covers and got out of bed.

She walked out of her bedroom just in time to see her landlord walking out of her mother's bedroom putting his belt back on. He quickly gave her a once over before she closed her tattered robe to veil her body from his view. She noticed him lick his lips before saying hello and walking out of the small apartment. 'Asshole,' she thought with hatred. Kim rolled her eyes and walked over to the kitchen and searched for any food source they had. Nothing. 

She blew out a frustrated breath and walked over to her mom's room and knocked on the door. "Mom, we don't have anymore food," she yelled out. Her mother didn't answer so she twisted the doorknob and walked inside. She immediately smelled the sex that still remained in the air and pinched her nose to keep out the invading aroma. She saw her mom sitting on the bed painting her nails and smoking a cigarette as if the fact that she just had sex for money was unimportant. 

"Oh, hey honey! I didn't know you were awake," she said in a gravelly voice. She cleared her throat and patted the side of the bed. "Have a seat." She offered before taking another drag of the cigarette.

"I don't think so. I know what you and Mr. Morrison were doing so I'll sit down after you burn these sheets," Kim replied. Her mom just giggled like some teenage school girl. 

"We don't have anymore food," Kim continued. Her mom nodded her head before releasing cigarette smoke from her nostrils and reached into the pocket of her jacket. 

"Here. What time do you have to be to work?" Her mom asked after throwing a wad of cash at Kim. Kim looked at the money and counted: two hundred dollars. It disgusted her that her mom was degrading herself like this. She felt even more awful knowing her mother was doing these things because she didn't want her living in a homeless shelter again. 

"11:20. I agreed to take over Maria's shift tonight so I won't be home until 10:00," Kim replied. Her mother turned to look at her watch and arched one of her ebony eyebrows.

"You better go get ready. It's already 10:30," her mother exclaimed. Kim nodded her head and left the bedroom. She slowly walked down the hall and into their small bathroom. 'Hopefully Justin can take me to work," she thought with a sigh.

***********

Justin lay across his bed with his eyes glued to the ceiling and his fingers clasped behind his head. He kept replaying the events from the previous night. It had seemed so dreamlike, but he knew it really happened. He almost fucked his best friend. No, he wouldn't have fucked her; he would have made love to her. 

The more he thought about her, the harder it became to deny the fact that he had feelings for Kim beyond the "Friend's Zone." He thought of her smooth skin that felt like the softest silk and the smell of her body wash that drove him crazy. He wanted to be with her so bad, to feel her body writhe underneath his as she cried out in pleasure.

"No! You have no right thinking like that. She's your best friend and for a long time she was your only friend. Don't lose her because you want to make drastic decisions with your dick. She deserves better," his logic chastised. 

"Then why did last night feel so right? Last night I felt something with her that I've never felt with any other girl. That has to count for something," he countered aloud. He continued his debate with himself for several minutes before he heard a knock on his door. His stepfather stood in the doorway with the house phone pressed against his massive chest.

"Hey sport. Kim's on the phone and she wants to know if you can drop her off at work," his step dad exclaimed. Justin felt his heart flutter at the mention of her name. 'Jesus fucking Christ! Get a hold of yourself,' he told himself. He couldn't face her just yet. Not when there was a high risk of him doing or saying something that could have a huge impact on their friendship.

"Tell her I'm asleep." Justin replied. He noticed his stepfather's look of confusion before he finally brought the phone back up to his ear.

"Hey Kim! He's asleep right now but if you'd like I could take you." His stepfather stated into the phone while still eye balling his stepson carefully. "Don't be ridiculous you're never a bother," he said a moment later. His stepfather listened to the other person on the phone before saying, "I'll be there in a flash" and hanging up. He walked further into Justin's room.

"You want to explain why I just lied to Kim for you?" his step dad asked, narrowing his eyes at Justin. 

"I just don't feel like taking her today. End of story," Justin replied.

"You sure that's it?" His stepfather asked unconvinced with the answer he received.

"Why do you think I have some ulterior motive?" Justin accused in an annoyed tone. He didn't want to talk about his problems with Steve. Even though he thought his stepfather was a pretty cool guy sometimes, he didn't want to spill out his guts and come off as some softy or lovesick loser.

"Well maybe it's because out of the four years that I've known you, you've never lied to Kim, but now all of a sudden you're avoiding her. That makes me question the answer you just gave me," His step dad retorted while crossing his arms over his chest. Justin scoffed loudly and rolled off the bed. He walked over to his dresser avoiding his stepfather's glare.

"I'm not avoiding her, Steve. I just don't feel like taking her to work okay. Just leave it alone." He replied as he took out a long-sleeved shirt and began putting it on. Steve exhaled loudly and shrugged his shoulders before walking out of the room. He was pulling the door closed, but before it closed all the way he spoke out.

"Don't think you're off the hook. We're talking about this later." Before Justin had time to reply the door was closed. 'Shit,' he thought.

*******

Mackenzie had barely gotten out of the shower when she heard her doorbell ring. She quickly dried some of her soaking hair until it was damp and wrapped her soft cotton towel around her naked frame. She ran downstairs and towards the front door and without looking to see who was on the other side, she opened it.

"Well isn't that a sight to see. You know I like it when my girls are all wet and ready for me," the guy said in an amused tone. Mackenzie rolled her eyes at him and let him in.

"John as much as I love your sense of humor, I'm not in the mood for it right now," Mackenzie stated while walking into the kitchen. 

"I take it someone didn't get any dick last night."

"Well you guessed right." Mackenzie didn't even see him come near her, but she felt him pick her up and place her on the counter. He held onto the sides of her waist and stepped in between her legs. 

"Well why didn't you say something, Mackey? You know I'd be more than willing to give you what you need," he said huskily. Mackenzie leaned down so that her lips were mere inches from his. 

"I don't need you to give me pleasure. That's my vibrator's job and after I get Justin I won't even need that anymore," she exclaimed. She pushed his body away from hers. He smiled at her as she hopped off the counter as gracefully as she could. 

"I don't think your vibrator is doing a good enough job. Pardon me if this sounds rude, but you still act like a bitch," he replied.

"Oh Johnny boy are you upset that a girl like me would never in her right mind go for a guy like you," she teased.

"A girl like you? Honey, you're not that sexy. Believe me, thinking of you naked gets me hard in like five minutes tops, but someone like Kim can get me hard like that," he said snapping his fingers. He knew he hit a sore spot when he saw her lips curl in anger. He had a habit on getting on people's nerves and he found it quite entertaining most of the time.

"Don't you ever compare me to that skank," she said viciously. 

"If she's a skank, then what are you? I mean you try to act all high and mighty like you were unanimously voted Miss Alpha Bitch. You try to strut your shit all around town like you're fucking Marilyn Monroe or something. Newsflash sweetie, guys like curves not stick figures, but I'm sure you'll have no problem paying for your missing parts. If I were you I'd start with the obvious like your tits and the barely there ass. Then you should move on to something a little more advanced like a personality transplant. You've probably slept with over half the male population in school so correct me if I'm wrong but doesn't that make you a whore," John stated matter-of-factly. Mackenzie rolled her eyes and brought her hand over to her mouth to imitate a yawn. She walked over to the fridge and grabbed a bottle of Evian water.

"I'm not a whore. I just like sex. There's a difference."

"You wanna clue me in on what that difference is," John asked skeptical of her reasoning. 

Mackenzie giggled but for some reason it sounded extremely evil coming from her. She took a swig of the bottle and set it on the counter.

"I thought you Asians were supposed to be super geniuses. The difference between me and Kim is simple. She sleeps with men for money and I don't. I do it simply for the enjoyment," she replied.

"Well she wasn't going to make me pay," John exclaimed. Mackenzie rolled her eyes for the umpteenth time that day and took another drink from the water bottle.

"That's because she wasn't feeling like herself. A side effect from those drugs," she stated before bringing the bottle back up to her lips.

"Well she didn't make Lover Boy pay either," John exclaimed before grabbing an apple and rubbing it against his shirt. Mackenzie almost choked on her water. She stared up at him and arched one of her fair-haired eyebrows.

"What are you talking about? Did that bitch sleep with my man?" she asked in a hysterical and accusatory tone. She set her bottle of water on the counter and prepared to receive an answer.

"Relax they only made out and there was a little dry humping from what I see in the tape." He laughed heartedly before taking in a mouthful full of the apple.

'The tape! How could I forget about the tape?' she yelled at herself.

"Let me see the tape," she commanded, holding out her hand. John rolled his eyes and reached into the pocket of his hoodie. He pulled out a small cassette tape and held it between his index and middle fingers. After a moment he finally decided to give it to her and continue devouring his apple.

"Here there's not much on it though so don't get your hopes up." Mackenzie looked up at him.

"Let's go watch it and I'll judge for myself," she stated, already making her way into the family room.

"Why would you want to watch the guy you like make out and grind against another girl?" John asked in confusion.

"I just want to see the part with you and her."

"Why? We made out for a whopping five minutes and then Lover Boy came in, kicked my ass out, and took over." He saw Mackenzie stop in her tracks and jerk her head in his direction.

"What the hell did you just say?"

"We made out—" was all he got out before Mackenzie interrupted him.

"You mean to tell me you were with her, alone in the room for more than ten minutes and you two did absolutely nothing! What did you do?" she asked, pissed off.

"We didn't do anything because all she did was talk. It's kinda hard to focus on your job when someone won't shut the fuck up," he answered. He was unfazed by her angry outburst. 

"I didn't pay you to have chit-chat with her. The job was so simple and you fucked it all up, you worthless piece of shit. I mean how hard is it to slip someone a roofie, take them upstairs to the third guest room, and fuck them," she yelled out. She threw the tape at him and watched it break on the floor.

"It's not as simple as you think, Blondie. Different people have different reactions to Rohypnol. Some black out, some people feel like they're gonna puke, and in her case she had this whole drunk vibe going on. Besides you should just use the video of her and Justin. She even said she loved him," he retorted. He started picking up the damaged pieces of the tape.

"No. I want her to look bad, not Justin. Besides all they did was make out which is a visual image that will literally haunt my dreams. Making out is so not 'OMG' worthy," she stated. John sighed and shoved his hands back into his pockets.

"So what do we do now?"

"Plan B."

"What's Plan B?" he asked cautiously after noticing a small smile form across her thin lips. She closed her eyes and began pacing the large space between the TV and the loveseat across from it. She was mumbling something unintelligible under her breath.

"What's Plan B?" he repeated anxiously. She shot him a dirty look and narrowed her eyes into small slits.

"Shut the fuck up you dick, I'm trying to think here." She paced around again for a torturous two minutes before shooting her arms up in the air excitedly. 

"I got it," she shouted, barely containing her excitement.

"So what's the plan?" he asked. Mackenzie walked over to him and gripped his shoulders. 

"You. You are the secret ingredient that will make this recipe a very delicious one." She said through a toothy smile. 'Oh man, should I be scared?' he thought to himself.

"What do you mean?" he asked.

"Ok. Here's the new plan since you fucked up the first one," she stated before releasing her death grip. John rolled his eyes and rolled his shoulders to get all of the tenseness out of them.

"So," she continued. "Justin is super protective of that whore whose name I refuse to mention. I remember this one time they got into a huge fight because she went on a date with this guy named Tony or Tommy something. Anyway they stopped talking for almost a week after that."

"And?" John asked. Mackenzie scoffed and crossed her arms over her body.

"And. If you ask her out then we could possibly get them to argue again and get it to the point where they aren't speaking to each other. It's perfect because graduation is like a few weeks away. After graduation Justin and I will be at the University of Illinois and far away from Cali and little Miss Skanky," she said as if it were the most obvious thing on the planet.

"But if you're both going to the same college then there's no point in trying to get them to hate each other," John stated while scratching his smooth, black hair.

"If they hate each other by the time we leave for college, then he'll be all mine. I won't have to deal with them talking to each other all the time. It's perfect," she replied simply.

"Ok. So let me get all of this straight. I have to go out with her because Lover Boy obsesses over the guys she dates and she hates that. So when that happens they'll duke it out and stop talking for a while. So you think that by the time you two leave for Chi-town they'll be so pissed at each other that they'll break off all communication with each other?" John repeated to clarify the idea behind the new plan. Mackenzie vigorously nodded her head and smiled wide. John noticed that when she smiled like that she tended to look ten years older than she actually was.

"Its genius isn't it?" she asked clasping her fingers together tightly.

"No. Actually I think it sounds kinda stupid, but you're the boss and your wish is my command. As long as I still get paid, I'm cool," he replied shrugging his shoulders slightly.

"Good. This is gonna be amazing," she said in a sing-song voice.

'I just made a deal with a crazy bitch,' John thought to himself. 

**********

Kim hadn't been this confused in her entire life. Over the past two weeks Justin had been avoiding her like the plague. Whenever she walked near him in school he would make a beeline in the opposite direction or pretend to be in deep conversation with the boys. When she tried to call him her call would go straight to voice mail. 'Is he blocking my calls? Why?' she asked herself countless times. She'd been overwhelmed by these questions for the past few days.

At lunchtime she decided to sit in the school yard and listen to her Mp3 player. She sat there with her back against a giant tree observing her peers interact with each other while listening to the raw power of Janis Joplin's voice. Justin's father had actually got her addicted to Janis and many other acts from the old days when she was younger. She sat there enjoying the Friday sunshine before she closed her eyes and decided to lean her head against the tree for support. 

She was listening to the chorus of "Piece of My Heart" when she felt someone else's presence on the grass. She opened her eyes and turned to look at the side profile of a handsome Asian guy. He glanced over in her direction and then smiled. Kim was sure that if her skin were a lighter shade it would have turned dark red. He sort of reminded her of the Asian model, Daniel Henney, except with less muscle and more hair, but he was still a sight to see nonetheless.

"Do you mind if I sit here?" he asked. He had noticed the shy smile that had spread across her face and thought it was adorable.

"No. Go ahead it's a free country." 

"I'm John." He said while extending his arm. 'John. Where have I heard that name before?' She asked herself. After a moment she accepted his hand and shook.

"Kim," she replied smiling. She thought about where she could've met this person before but she couldn't put her finger on it.

"I think we met at Mackenzie's party. I'm not sure though. That whole night is kinda sketchy," he stated.

He had noticed the confused look on her face after they had made the introductions and figured she was trying to remember where she knew him from. 'I'll just fill in that small void,' he had thought to himself before revealing that he was the John from the party.

"Yeah, I guess everyone decided to spike the punch that night and the beers we drank didn't help either," Kim joked. John chuckled softly before looking over at one of the picnic tables on the opposite side of them. He pointed to Mackenzie and the rest of the people sitting at the table.

"So why aren't you sitting with your friends?" he asked. She sighed loudly and shrugged her shoulders.

"They're not my friends. Those people hate me and I can honestly say the feeling is mutual. The only reason we tolerate each other is because of my friend, Justin. Since Justin is avoiding me as of late I thought I'd just hang out right here. Let my music and this big ass tree keep me company," she replied smiling. John could see the sadness behind the smile.

"Are you and this Justin guy really close?" he asked.

"Yeah we are. We've known each other since second grade," she said looking at Justin. He was laughing at something Rory had said to him.

"Then why aren't you speaking?" John asked. He figured it was because Justin was freaked out about Kim saying she loved him. He had to remind himself that as far as everyone was concerned he didn't know anything about them.




Closer Ch. 02



"The new snobs he hangs around with probably finally brainwashed him into not talking to me," she stated lamely with a shrug of one shoulder. 

'If only she knew the real reason,' John thought to himself. 

"If that's the case then he's not worthy of being your friend. He'll just have to find out the hard way that by being a dick he's gonna lose the best friend he's ever had or ever will have," John exclaimed. Kim turned her head and made eye contact with John.

"That makes me feel a little better, I guess." John clapped his hands together loudly. 

"So I guess I should reveal my true intention for coming over here and sitting next to you," John said.

"What?"

"I came here to ask you to prom. Do you wanna go with me? You'd be the sexy chick and I'll be the hip Asian in school," he said smiling. Kim giggled and shook her head.

"I'm sorry, but I'm not going to prom," she replied. 

"Why not? I mean every girl deserves to go to their prom," John said in a serious tone of voice. Kim nervously fiddled with her fingers and looked away from John to hide her embarrassment.

"I can't afford to buy a dress," she said. "My mom and I don't have a lot of money so I'm not gonna go," she continued with her head down in shame. She felt so humiliated having to explain that she was basically dirt poor to a complete stranger. She felt his fingers on the bottom of her chin and lift her face up to meet his gaze.

"Don't be embarrassed. I'm not judging you. We could always show up in jeans and a t-shirt. It'll be a prom fashion statement or whatever," John said. 

"So I have a question for you," Kim said trying to change the subject. She didn't even wanna think about prom. It sucked so much that she couldn't afford to buy a nice dress. 

"Ok shoot." 

"Why were you at Mackenzie's party? You just said you're new here and Mackenzie hates new people, so why did she invite you?" Kim asked. She turned off her mp3 player completely and put it safely into the pocket of her jeans. 

"Oh well I've only been here for about three weeks but from day one Mackenzie's been using me to do her math homework. The night of the party I wanted some collateral for all my hard work and she said I could come to her party," John replied. Kim turned to look at him and smiled just a bit.

"So you let Mackenzie push you around?" she said in an amused tone. He looked at her and faked a hurt look.

"No, not exactly. See Mackenzie has a lot of stereotypical views," John stated.

"Yeah, tell me something I don't know," Kim added while rolling her eyes.

"Anyway she thinks I'm good with numbers because I'm Asian. Little does she know I really suck at math. So I fill in her homework with all these shitty answers and stuff. She doesn't even look at the work I do so it's pretty easy to get away with making her look even more stupid than she already is." John laughed and Kim joined in. She was happy to know that John wasn't just being manipulated by Mackenzie. Kim looked at Justin again and John watched her closely.

"So are you gonna go with me to prom?" he asked while tucking some of his shoulder length hair behind his ear. Kim looked towards the school building when she heard the first bell ring. She rose up to her feet and picked up her chemistry and math books. 

"I'll let you know when I have a definite answer," she said with a smile before making her way towards the tall brick building. She doubted she would be able to scrap up enough money to buy a ticket and a dress, but she would try. If it didn't work out, she would just tell John. She was halfway across the yard when she heard John call out behind her.

"Hey wait! I should give you my number so you can text me or whatever when you decide," John exclaimed. He ran over towards her and gave her his cell phone. 

"Put your number in here," he said. She grabbed his phone after reaching into her jean pocket with her free hand and taking out her own. He grabbed hers and entered his number while she did the same with his. When they were finished they began walking the rest of the way towards the building together in silence.

"I'll talk to ya later," he said while branching off into another direction.

"Bye," Kim answered back softly.

Later that day Kim had arrived back at her apartment complex. She had about three hours to kill before she had to go work at the store and figured she'd just watch TV or something else that wasn't very productive. She walked up to her door and was about to open it when she heard the door across the hall open. She turned to see her neighbor, Mrs. Marshall, with her small cat, Monty.

"Hi Kimberly. Your mom came by earlier and she wanted me to tell you that she's gonna be gone a couple of days maybe weeks. She also said not to worry about the rent because she talked to Mr. Morrison and she paid ahead," the old woman exclaimed while cradling her small cat. Kim looked at the woman in confusion. She knew she should be used to her mom's shenanigans that could make her disappear for days, but somehow she never did. She also knew what her mother's 'payment' to Mr. Morrison was.

"Did she say where she was going?" Kim asked jingling her keys in her hand. Mrs. Marshall looked up from her fidgeting cat at the young girl. She shook her head.

"No, but she said she was going with Reaper. What yo momma sees in that man I'll never know." Mrs. Marshall said shaking her head.

"Yeah well join the club," Kim replied sadly. Everyone knew Reaper in her neighborhood. His reputation as a ruthless killer and drug dealer grew over a span of twenty years and now at the age of forty-five most people feared him.

"Do you want somethin' to eat? You looking awfully skinny these days," Mrs. Marshall exclaimed while inspecting the girl's body.

"You trying to fatten me up," Kim joked. The older woman chuckled and nodded her head towards her apartment. 

"Come on. Me and Monty could use the company. It's been a while since you've been here anyway," Mrs. Marshall said while ushering the girl into the apartment. Mrs. Marshall's house was equally as cramped as hers, but there was something about its ambiance that made her feel at ease. The living room was a pale pink color and the TV in the corner was littered with pictures. The one picture on the center of the television set really stood out to her. She picked it up and looked at it closely.

It was a picture of her and Mrs. Marshall's granddaughter, Adrienne. Adrienne was about eighteen in the picture and Kim was only sixteen. They were at the beach with their back towards the ocean and incoming water pooling around their feet. Adrienne was in a blue bikini top with matching bottoms while Kim was dressed in a black bikini top with jean shorts on that stopped just above her upper thigh. Kim had her arm draped around Adrienne's small shoulders while Adrienne's arms were wrapped tightly around Kim's curvy waist. Adrienne was smiling widely letting the dimples in her cheeks look deeper than they usually did and Kim was sporting a lopsided grin. The picture was so lovable and was taken six months before Adrienne disappeared. 

"You know that was her favorite picture of you guys," Mrs. Marshall stated softly. Kimberly wiped away a tear that had begun to cascade down her face and then turned to look at the woman. 

"It's my favorite too," she replied as she set the picture back down to its rightful place. Mrs. Marshall set down her cat and walked over to the kitchen and motioned for Kim to follow her. They sat at the small wooden table across from each other while Mrs. Marshall poured two cups of tea.

"It's so quiet without her here," Mrs. Marshall stated while looking around at the small apartment. She passed Kim a mug and watched as the girl took a small sip of the steaming liquid. Adrienne had lived with her grandmother after her mother had overdosed on drugs. She was only about fifteen when she had moved in with her grandmother and about a month later she had met Kim. 

Adrienne was Kim's only female friend and the only other person besides Justin that she confided in on a regular basis. When Adrienne went missing, Kim felt part of her heart chip away and an even bigger part break when Adrienne's body was found two weeks later. She had been beaten, raped multiple times, and then strangled. That was one of the hardest deaths Kim had to go through. The other hardest was Justin's real father, Joseph. 'Don't think about Justin or anyone associated with him,' she told herself.

"I miss her so much," Kim said sadly. She lowered her head to hide the tears that were forming in her eyes. The last thing she wanted was to upset the old woman whose heart was still mourning the loss of her only grandchild. 

"It's alright child," Mrs. Marshall said soothingly. She reached over the table and grabbed Kim's small hand. Kim looked up at her with glassy eyes and smiled weakly. "She's in a better place and I know she's watching down on the both of us. I know she's up there and she's waiting for me to join her and her momma." She continued lifting her eyes up towards the ceiling. Kim nodded and wiped at her stubborn tears.

"I remember the last time I saw her," Kim croaked out. "It was the day after her prom and she took me out to eat. She just kept going on and on about how much fun everything was and how her date was such a gentleman. She was so happy." 

Mrs. Marshall closed her eyes as the unshed tears that had been forming finally dropped down her eyelids. "She was wasn't she? I think I'll miss that the most about her. She had this certain energy about her and everyday I still feel part of that energy in this house. I think that's her way of telling me she's ok. That she's fine in the next life and she wants me to be ok too," the woman whispered almost painfully. 

Kim rubbed the woman's hand softly. She ran her young hands across the older woman's smooth wrinkled ones as soothingly as she could. Mrs. Marshall looked at the young girl and said in a hoarse voice.

"You all I got left Kimberly; you and Monty. Promise me that when I go you'll take good care of him," the old woman said.

"I promise," Kim whispered back. 

"Promise you'll go on to do great things and you won't end up like the rest of us."

"I promise."

The woman nodded her head and patted the young girl's hand.

"I know you'll keep that promise," she said regaining control of her voice. "Are you going to your prom?" she asked softly. 

Kim shook her head 'no.'

"Why not? Didn't someone ask you?" Mrs. Marshall asked taking a sip of her tea and letting go of the girl's hand. Kim leaned back in her chair and smiled while wiping away the last of her tears.

"Umm yeah someone asked me, but I don't have a dress. The nice ones cost a fortune," she exclaimed with a shrug of her shoulders. Mrs. Marshall rose out of her seat and walked to the back of the apartment. Kim sat there for a moment drinking her tea until she heard Mrs. Marshall call out her name.

"Kim. Can you come back here for a moment?" the woman hollered. Kim immediately did as she was told and made her way down the hall towards the bedrooms in the back. She was making her way into the older woman's room when she heard the woman call out again, but the voice was coming from the room next door: Adrienne's room.

She walked into the room and was immediately bombarded with memories. Everything about the room was the same as it was the last time she was there. The posters of Usher, Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown, and Channing Tatum still littered the walls. The bedspread was still a light blue color with white and pink flowers on them and the carpet was still white as snow. Mrs. Marshall was standing near the closet and poked her head out to look at Kim. 

"Have a seat," she said with a smile. Kim walked over to the bed and looked at the various posters on the wall. Mrs. Marshall came out a moment later with a dress. Not just any dress, it was Adrienne's old prom dress.

"I want you to have this," she stated while smiling. 

"W-w-what? No. I could never," Kim said standing up. She was at a loss for words. There was no way she could wear Adrienne's dress. Not in a million years.

"Please Kim. I want you to go to your prom. You really deserve to go. Please take the dress. I have no use for it now," Mrs. Marshall pleaded. 

"Mrs. Marshall…"

"Anita. Call me Anita," she interrupted.

"Anita, I can't take this dress. It's Adrienne's. I-I- I wouldn't look h-half as good in it as she did," Kim stammered.

"You'll look beautiful Kim. It would mean a lot to me if you'd accept this dress. Please," Anita said. Kim looked into the woman's eyes and could see the depth of emotion radiating in them. She couldn't say no, it would break Anita's heart. This obviously meant a lot to her.

"Ok," she said in defeat. The woman smiled madly and handed over the dress. She hugged Kim a moment later and kissed the top of her forehead. "Thank you," Kim said. Her gratitude was muffled by Anita's meaty shoulder.

"No thank you," she replied. 

When Kim arrived home the first thing she did was go through the contacts in her phone until she found John's name. She called him and after three rings he answered. 

"Hey. I was wondering when you'd call. Do you have an answer?" he asked. Kim smiled and looked at the dress lying on her small couch. 

"Yeah. I do," she replied.

"So is it a yes or no?" he asked.

"Well that depends. Are you still interested in being the cool Asian at the prom?" she joked.

"Of course!" He replied happily.

"Then it's a definite yes." She was so happy. She was gonna go to her prom.

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

Justin had woke up early in the afternoon thinking about Kim. He had been thinking about Kim for the past two weeks non-stop. He felt like a dick for ignoring her in school and blocking her calls, but he had to get all of his feelings straightened out first. Besides, there was a possibility that she couldn't remember a damn thing that went on with them the night of the party because of her drunken state. If that was the case then he damn sure wasn't gonna risk it. 

He knew he couldn't keep avoiding her. There was only a few more weeks of school left and soon after he'd be leaving for college in Illinois. So whatever feelings he had to sort out, he had to do it quickly. He turned on his TV and was about to look at what sports reruns were on when a picture of his father appeared on the news.

"Today marks the six year anniversary of the Blooming Murders. Newlywed couple Ted and Shannon Blooming robbed several banks in three days. The couple killed four police officers including twelve year veteran Joseph Cook. The two were also responsible for the death of multiple pedestrians before finally being apprehended by officers," the female news anchor stated before Justin quickly turned off the TV. He shook his head violently from remembering the day his father was murdered. Finally he was able to get his thoughts away from Kim, but the subject wasn't much better. He decided that he would visit his father's grave. Maybe open up and talk about the things that were on his chest, mainly Kim. He knew his father wouldn't hear him or anything, but it still felt nice to just go there.

When he finished getting dressed he rushed downstairs and into the kitchen to get a quick snack before leaving. He saw his mother sitting in the kitchen idly tapping on the table. He knew she saw the news report. He could tell from the look in her distant eyes. She used to get the same look in her eyes when someone brought up his dad's name after he was killed.

"Hey mom, you okay?" he asked. He walked fully into the kitchen and over towards the cabinet where he knew the mini-doughnuts were. 

"Oh y-yeah I'm fine. Just thinking about your dad and reminiscing of old times," she said.

"I take it you saw the report too," Justin said while taking a bite out of a chocolate doughnut. 

"Yeah it brought back a lot of memories. A lot of painful ones," she said in a quiet voice.

"I know. I thought I'd go visit his gravesite today. That's why I'm out of bed and dressed so early." Justin exclaimed. 

"Do you want me to come with you?"

"No it's ok. I'm not scared to go there by myself anymore. I'm a man now," he joked lightly with a small pound to his chest imitating King Kong.

"Alright. I promise we'll do something later," she said to his retreating back as he left the kitchen and walked towards the front door.

"Ok. It's a date," he said before closing the door behind him.

The drive to the cemetery seemed to take forever. He talked to himself like a crazy person for the first thirty-minutes before turning on the radio. When he got to the cemetery he roamed around for a few minutes before finally locating the area where his father's tombstone was located. He walked over to his father's gravesite and saw another person there. The closer he got the more of the person he saw. He realized the person was Kim. He stopped walking, but he could hear Kim talking. He walked a little bit closer to hear her better.

"It sucks that you're not here anymore. You were like a father to me. You used to give great advice and I could use some of it right now. Justin's mad at me and I don't know what to do. I wish you were here to help me. I'm so confused," she said softly.

Justin inadvertently began walking forward. He guessed she must have heard him coming because she suddenly stopped talking and turned her body to look at him. She quickly got off her knees and onto her feet. She turned to face him and shoved her hands in her jeans.

"I'll leave if you want me to," she said before starting to walk away. Justin reached out to grab her arm and she looked up at him with unsure eyes.

"No. Stay," he said simply. Maybe this was a sign that now was the time for them to talk. She looked at his father's gravesite and returned to her spot in front of it. "So you saw the report too?" he asked. She looked up at him and shook her head.

"What report? I come here every year on the anniversary of his death. I just come here to talk to him for a couple of hours or to clear my head," she said slowly. 

Justin got on his knees beside her and looked at the tombstone. It was so quiet and the atmosphere of the cemetery was creepy. She came here every year? He'd only come here three times. The day his father was put in the ground, the year after that, and today. 

"This is the first time I've been here without my mom. You know how these places used to give me the creeps," he said jokingly. The corners of her mouth turned just a little before she looked at him.

"So you're talking to me now?" she asked bluntly. 

"I'm sorry I ignored you," he said. He brought his hand up to rub the small of her back. She scoffed before moving away from him until they were completely across from each other. 

"Why were you ignoring me? I thought we were friends." She questioned.

"We are. I just…" he said. He couldn't finish the sentence. How was he supposed to explain this when he was surrounded by dead people?

"You just what? Blew me off for your new friends?" She said. Her face had magically transformed from peaceful to pissed off in the short span of two minutes all thanks to him. 

"This isn't about them," he countered slowly. 

"Yeah right. Then what is this about because I'm starting to get the idea that they're finally turning you against me," she retorted. She got off her knees and was about to go when Justin jumped up and grabbed her by the arm. She came to a complete stop and turned to face him with tears forming in her eyes. He felt like an asshole.

"I'm sorry, Kimmy. I really am. I just had to think about some things," he said softly. He wiped away a tear that was trailing down her face.

"What things? Why were you avoiding me?" she asked looking him in his eyes.




Closer Ch. 02



"It's because of that stupid party," he mumbled. She had barely heard him.

"What about the party? I didn't even see you that night," she said in confusion. He sighed and exhaled softly. Here we go.

"You got wasted I guess that's why you barely remember it. We ended up in one of the bedrooms upstairs and some things happened," he said looking deeply into her eyes.

"Did we?" she asked while looking in between the both of their bodies. He shook his head.

"No we only kissed for a few minutes. I was avoiding you because I kinda freaked out," he replied. He didn't know why he omitted the part about her saying 'I love you.'

"Why didn't you say anything earlier?" she asked wildly. 

"Because I knew there was a possibility you wouldn't remember. I'm such an idiot," he said. She hugged him and laughed softly. 

"I have to admit that this is kinda funny, but I'm also relieved that your new friends didn't convince you to ditch me." She leaned against his chest.

"They'd never convince me no matter how hard they tried," he replied. He planted kisses on top of her head. Her hair smelled like watermelon or some other type of fruit. 

"How'd you get here?" he asked after glancing around the cemetery and only seeing his car in the parking lot.

"The bus," she replied. She finally released him from her hug. He smiled and shook his head.

"Do you have to work today?" he asked.

"No. I worked a double last night so I'm off today," she replied.

"Do you want to hang out today? Maybe go to my house and play video games?" He asked with a shrug of his shoulders.

"As long as you don't cry when I kick your ass in Mortal Kombat." 

"Oh please. You only beat me because you cheated," he retorted. Kim rolled her eyes and waved away his claim.

"Don't be upset because I am the Mortal Kombat master," she joked. They walked towards his car talking the whole time.

Most of the car ride had been spent listening to music and joking around. Justin had glanced over at Kim as she sang along to "Maybe I'm Amazed" with Jem. She sang beautifully. As he listened to her sing the lyrics he couldn't help the feelings that started forming. The song described exactly how he felt when he was around Kim. 

"Am I really that bad?" she joked when she noticed him glance at her.

"Are you crazy? Your voice is incredible," he replied. She smiled at the compliment. "So," he continued. "I was thinking that since you're not going to prom we could go hang out at the movies or something," he exclaimed. He saw Kim look in his direction quickly.

"Actually I got a dress and I'm buying a ticket on Monday," she replied.

"Really? We should totally go together then." 

"I already have a date," she answered. She looked in his direction to see his reaction. 

"Who?" He asked as he gripped the steering wheel.

"This guy named John," she stated. Justin gripped his steering wheel tighter at the familiar name. 

"John? You mean Asian John?" he asked.

"Yeah," she replied simply. 

'Motherfucker.' He thought angrily. She's going with that dude from the party. 

"Are you ok?" she asked after seeing his reaction.

"Peachy!" He replied through gritted teeth. The rest of the car ride was silent.

When they arrived at his house they noticed his mother's car wasn't in the driveway. 

"Where's your mom and Steve?" Kim asked, surveying the house closely. Justin shrugged his shoulders and pulled in. 

"I don't know. They're probably getting brunch or something," he replied while coming to a complete stop. They got out of the car and walked into the house.

"You ready for me to kick your ass with Sonya Blade?" she joked.

"Oh please, Sonya has nothing on Liu Kang," he retorted cockily.

"Oh yeah. Why don't you put your money where your mouth is?" 

"Is that a challenge?" He asked.

"You bet your lily, white ass it is," she laughed out loud. 

"Don't get mad when I beat you," he said.

"Set it up bitch," she said walking over to the couch. He followed closely behind her and watched her hips sway as she walked. It was incredible. She was incredible. He walked over and set up the Playstation 2. He handed her a joystick as they waited for the game to start.

"Alright! Get ready to call me your daddy," he said. They both chose their characters and when the match started they were pressing buttons uncontrollably. Kim won the first match and Justin won the second. Now it was time for the tie breaker. The match started and a look of pure concentration entered both their faces.

"Son of a fucking bitch!" Justin shouted when he lost. Kim jumped up in the air and danced around happily. 

"In your face sucka!" She taunted loudly. "Now say it!" She commanded while pointing her finger in his face. Justin rolled his eyes.

"Make me," He said defiantly. She stood in front of him with her hand on her hip.

"Oh yeah?" she asked. He nodded his head and smiled as she pounced on him like a lion attacking its prey. 

They rolled off the couch in a fit of giggles and playfully attacked each other. They both struggled to maintain dominance over the other person. After what seemed like forever, Justin finally got a grip on Kim's thrashing arms. He climbed on top of her and threw her hands up above her head. She was still moving around underneath him trying to free her hands. 

She continued to move around and looked up at his amused face. "No fair. I won so you have to say it," she whined. 

"I'm not saying it until you make me," he laughed. She began pumping her hips up and down trying to get him to budge but he didn't. Little did she know the effect it was starting to have on him. 

The distraction of her pumping her hips into his caused his death grip on her hands to die down until she was able to move her hands. She grabbed him by his shirt and swung him over with all her might until he was on his back. She quickly climbed on top of him and was breathing heavy. 

"Now say it!" She ordered breathlessly. Justin chuckled for a moment before tucking some of her dark hair behind her ear.

"Kimberly Monee Barns, you are the master of all. You are better than me and cuter than me, you're humble servant Justin Ezekiel Cook. I will never be as admirable or as smart as you. You are queen of Mortal Kombat," he said in an exasperated sigh. She laughed loudly and nodded her approval.

"Good boy," she said in a singsong voice.

"Oh what am I a dog now?" he asked.

"Yeah, but you're my dog. That's why I'm your master," she replied with a smile. 

"Really now?" he asked slyly as he brought his hands up to tickle her stomach. She busted out laughing and uncontrollably began bouncing up and down on him. 

"Stop!" She cried out in between giggles. She frantically moved her body around on his. She was moving around so much that she didn't realize her body had moved down the length of his body and right over his groin. She continued bouncing until she heard him groan. 

"You ok? Did I hurt you?" she asked. Her laughter subsequently died down. 

"No it's just—" Justin started before he saw her face fill with realization. He turned a bright red color. She could feel his erection on her jeans. She looked down at him and giggled softly.

"I see someone else decided to join the party," she joked. Kim was about to get off of him when his hands came up to grab her hips, stilling her movements. She looked down at him shyly. She saw a shimmer of emotion flicker across his eyes. An emotion that she couldn't decode. 

"What?" she asked, avoiding his gaze. She was about to move again only to have him grip her hips tighter. She turned to look down at him. Then he released her hips and brought his hands up to the back of her head. He slowly guided her head down to his until their lips were just seconds from making contact and waited. He wanted to see if she would pull away, but she didn't. That was the only sign he needed. He leaned up until their lips connected.

The kiss was even better than it was the last time. Maybe it was because she wasn't drunk this time. Her lips were so soft and he couldn't help but kiss her harder. He nipped hungrily at her bottom lip until she parted her lips and let him slip his tongue into her mouth. Their tongues danced wildly together and teased each other. Kim had moaned softly into his mouth and that sent vibrations shooting through him. It was a wonderful feeling.

Justin flipped her over until she was underneath his warm body. His hands stroked the sides of her body before making a trip north to her upper body. He reached over and grabbed her breasts with his hands. He massaged with as much love and tenderness his hungry body could muster. Kim broke the kiss when she gasped. She had never experienced anything sexual before and this was the most arousing thing to ever happen to her. She turned her head to the side and savored the unbelievable pleasure she was receiving. 'Oh my God, you're making out with Justin.' Her mind said. 'Just shut up and enjoy.' Her body screamed.

He took that opportunity to move his kisses to her neck while still rubbing her soft chest. He listened to her moan over and over softly and it was like music to his ears. He slowly unbuttoned the small buttons of her blouse and let his tongue make a trail down her neck until he reached the top of her bra. He rose up so that he could see her beautiful body. 

Her white bra was a stark contrast from her beautiful brown skin. It was so erotic that he almost came in his pants from the sight. He undid the clip on the front of her bra and watched in awe as her beautiful breasts bounced free. He was pretty sure he salivated a little, but he quickly made up for it when he lowered his head to her chocolate nipple. He listened as Kim took in a deep intake of air.

"Oh God, Justin. Don't stop please," she said breathlessly. Justin's other hand moved down her body towards the front of her jeans. He expertly undid the button and zipper, exposing her small blue panties. He stroked her panties which were becoming increasingly soaked. She moaned out, yet again, and bucked her hips upward. He knew what she wanted and he decided to give it to her. 

He moved her panties aside and fingered her slit for a second before finally dipping two fingers into her tight pussy. She brought her hand up to grip his hair and massaged his scalp as his fingers torturously stroked slowly in and out of her body. He moved his thumb to her engorged button and skillfully flicked it. She moaned even louder and her grip on his hair tightened. 

"You like that don't you, Kimmy?" he asked huskily. She moaned again before nodding her head. "Say it!" He commanded before taking her protruding nipple in his mouth again. Her fingers gripped tighter and she arched her back as a not so familiar feeling started creeping in on her.

"I like it. I love it!" She said that barely above a whisper. She gasped out loud as her legs went numb and her body tingled. She felt a spasm rack through her body and then another. There was no way to really describe the feeling, it was pure bliss. She clung tightly to his body as she rode out her first orgasm. 

Justin watched in satisfaction as Kim came down from cumming. He still pumped his fingers inside of her slowly. Her walls were gripping his fingers tightly as her muscles contracted with every spasm. When she finally opened her eyes she smiled brightly at him.

"That was amazing," she said. Justin leaned down and was about to claim her lips again when he heard the locks on the front door moving. He looked down at her quickly before he jumped off of her and watched her hurriedly fix her clothes. A moment later his mother walked into the room.

"Oh hey, Kimberly. I didn't know you'd be here today. I haven't seen you lately. I missed you. What are you guys doing?" His mom asked carrying two large grocery bags in her arms. 

"Just playing some video games," Justin said quickly. He and Kim looked swiftly at each other before looking back at his mom.

"Oh. Those bags look heavy. Let me help you," Kim said as she got up and walked over to the other woman. 

"That's so nice of you. Justy, there are some other bags in the car," she exclaimed before handing a bag to Kim. Justin stared at Kim's retreating form as she walked into the kitchen after his mom. She glanced back at him one more time before she disappeared into the room.

Kim walked into the kitchen and placed the bags on the table. She immediately began taking the various items out of the brown bags. She grabbed the boxes of cereal and walked across the kitchen in order to put them in the cabinet. When she turned around she was surprised when she heard Justin's mom call out.

"Your fly is unzipped." Kim looked down in embarrassment and zipped up her pants.

"I hate these damn pants," she said, hoping Justin's mom wouldn't get an idea of what happened just a few moments ago. She was relieved when the woman chuckled and continued taking items out of her bag. 

"It happens to the best of us. Don't worry I won't tell a soul," she said through a smile. They continued putting away items until the boys came rushing into the kitchen with bags and bags of groceries. 

"Jeez mom, you bought enough food for a small army," Justin complained. He set the bags down on the floor and stretched his back. His stepfather followed suit and the women laughed.

"Well you won't be complaining when you eat all the food in a week," his mom said. Everyone began putting away the various foods in different sections of the fridge and the cabinets. 

"Would you kids be ok putting away the rest of this stuff? Your mother and I have to go somewhere." Steve exclaimed. 

"You guys never have anywhere to go," Justin replied stuffing some ice cream into the freezer. His parents smiled at each other before his mother grabbed Steve's hand.

"We didn't want to say anything because we wanted it to be a graduation present, but I can't wait anymore. Justin I'm pregnant!" His mom said excitedly. Kim and Justin immediately stopped what they were doing and stared at his parents. Kim smiled brightly while Justin's jaw dropped.

"Oh my God, Mrs. P that's wonderful," Kim said as she walked over and engulfed the other woman in a bear hug. They embraced each other for what seemed like forever. Steve walked over to Justin and shook his hand.

"Congrats man," Justin said. He couldn't believe he was getting a brother or sister. It was great, he guessed.

"Anyway that's why we have to go. We have an appointment and I'm getting my first sonogram today," his mom said.

"Yeah you guys go ahead. We'll finish putting everything away. It's no problem," Kim said. She hugged his mother one more time before hugging his stepdad. 

"Alright, we have to go. Don't wanna be late," Steve said after Kim released him. They all said there goodbyes one last time before Steve and his wife left the house. Kim and Justin went back to work.

"I can't believe you're getting a little sister or brother. Although, I must say I'd prefer it be a girl. That way I can teach her how to annoy you," Kim said with a smile. "Aren't you excited?" she asked him.

"Yeah," he replied but it sounded flat. Kim looked at him and saw the blank expression on his face which he tried to hide. She looked away and continued storing the food. When she finished she had walked down the hall and into the bathroom for a few moments. When she returned Justin was nowhere to be found.

"Justin?" she called out searching the space of the kitchen. She walked into the dining room and then the living room. 'Where is he?' she asked herself. She walked around every part of the house until she glanced out Justin's bedroom window and saw him in the backyard. 

He was sitting on the swing set slowly rocking back and forth. Kim walked all the way downstairs and out of the backdoor until she was in his huge backyard. She loved his backyard, maybe it was because she didn't have her own. His was so spacious and she loved how big his swimming pool was. She smiled as she remembered the time Justin taught her how to swim. It was the scariest yet one of the funniest days of her life. 

She continued walking until she was at the mini playground his father, Gavin, had built. Justin looked up at her as she leaned against the side railing of the swing set. 

"Hey you. I was looking all over the house for you," she said. She frowned when he didn't respond to her so she lightly ruffled his hair with her hand. "You ok? Is this about the baby?" she asked.

"Yeah. The baby just made me think of a lot of different things," he replied with a sigh.

"Things like what?"

"Like the fact that I'm finally getting a little brother or sister, but I'll be away at college and I'll barely see him or her," he said. Kim looked at him sympathetically and shrugged slightly.

"You'll be a great big brother even if you're not here all the time. I mean after you graduate you could always move back. At least you're going to college and it's in Chicago of all places. That's pretty amazing, Justin. You're gonna go on and become some fancy, smancy lawyer or doctor with a supermodel trophy wife. I'm gonna be stuck waiting tables and bagging groceries for the rest of my life," Kim stated while looking at the sun in the far distance. 

"Don't say that, Kimmy. You're gonna do something amazing too," he said. He reached over to grab her hand. She looked away from him and groaned.

"You have this vision in your head that everything will turn out like some modern day fairytale where everyone's dream will come true. I have to be realistic and face the truth. I'm never gonna leave this place and chances are I'll end up just like the low lives that live in my neighborhood. I'll be destined to be just like my mom," she exclaimed painfully. 

"You won't end up like your mom," Justin said gently.

"How do you know? What makes you so sure?"

"Because I've known you since we were both like seven and I know you'd never do something like that," he said soothingly. 

"People can surprise you. They're capable of anything," she said simply. Justin pulled her towards him until she was directly in front of his sitting figure. He pulled her down toward him and helped her into his lap so that they were face to face. She grabbed hold of the chained parts of the swing as he grabbed hold of her waist.

"I know you'll do something with your life, Kimmy. Anyone who knows you or met you knows it too. Life dealt you a shitty hand. It does that to a lot of people. You just have to stick it out and remember to never give up," he said softly while fingering a strand of her hair.

"Are you my life coach now?" she asked with a smile. She lifted her head to look at his face.

"No. I'm just your best friend trying to give you some much needed advice because I care," he replied. He reached out and stroked the side of her face. Her soft skin felt amazing under his calloused fingertips. He traced her lips with his fingers until she puckered her lips and kissed his thumb lightly. They made eye contact briefly before their lips connected. 

They kissed each other until Kim broke off the kiss to undo the buttons on her blouse. Justin leaned over to suck on her neck gently. He grabbed the blouse and removed it from her body until she was sitting in his lap with just her bra and her jeans on. She pulled at the sides of his t-shirt until it was over his head. 

She marveled at his mind-blowing body. It wasn't the first time she'd seen him without a shirt on, but somehow his body looked even better than it did last time. If that was even possible! His sculpted chest, his tight and toned abs all made her wet with anticipation. If his upper body was amazing, how could his lower half not be, she told herself. She unbuttoned his jeans and dug her hands inside his boxers to claim her prize. He was huge, not that she had much to compare to, but she was pretty sure he was WAY beyond average. She wrapped her tiny hand around his cock and pumped up and down slowly.




Closer Ch. 03



Hey so here is chapter 3 and I'm busy working on chapter 4. This actually didn't take me long to write, but the editor I contacted never wrote back. Therefore, I had to find someone else who could edit it and that took forever. Anyway I hope you enjoy and remember to comment and rate.

~Taryn a.k.a. FatalCharm

Kim walked for more than two hours all the way to her house. She had stopped at the bus stop only to find out from someone else that the bus had already left. She didn't want to wait, waiting was not an option. She was pretty sure that if she waited she would explode on the innocent people around her. She had all these emotions going on: anger, hurt, confusion. She couldn't believe what had just happened. She lost her virginity, got into a stupid argument, and now she was walking home. Life was such a bitch.

As she walked home she couldn't help the tears that started trickling down her face. No matter how many times she wiped at the stubborn tears or told herself not to cry they still came. Out of all the years she'd known him they'd never gotten into a fight and now their friendship was on thin ice. All they'd been doing lately was fighting or ignoring each other. If this kept up then by the time Justin left for college they'd be anything but friends. How could he just kick her out like some old piece of trash? 'Because you were just another piece of ass to him,' she thought with disgust. All she wanted now was to take a warm shower to relax her aching muscles and forget about all Justin Cook.

She felt her phone vibrating in her pocket and looked down to see who was calling her. It was Justin. She quickly pressed the ignore button on the phone and stuck it back into her pocket. She didn't want to hear anything he had to say right now. 

She finally arrived home, eyes watering, and feet throbbing. She walked straight into her bathroom and turned the knobs to turn on the shower water. She peeled off her clothes which were sticking to her body because of her sweat and threw them on the floor. She looked at herself in the medicine cabinet mirror and smiled sadly.

"What a day," she said before stepping away and walking over to the shower. She climbed inside her tub and let the hot water and steam engulf her body. It instantly calmed and soothed her body.

When she got out of the shower she quickly put on her pajamas and tied her hair into a loose ponytail. Even though it was barely five o'clock she figured she was definitely not going anywhere else today. She reflected back on everything that happened. She woke up, got dressed, took the bus to the small cemetery Justin's father was buried in, made up with Justin, went to his house, fucked him, got into a fight over prom and then got kicked out. This day had been absolutely the most dramatic day of her life. 

She was so upset and she didn't want to be alone. Her mom wasn't home. Mrs. Marshall wasn't home. She desperately needed someone to talk to. She only had a few friends besides Justin, but she didn't want to talk to them. They'd probably only be interested in knowing how big Justin's penis was or if he was good in bed or on the swing in her case. She could only think of one person. She walked over to her house phone and dialed the number, hoping and praying to whatever God or deity that was watching over her they'd answer.

********* 

"What do you think of this one? I think it definitely makes my tits look bigger," Mackenzie said, examining herself in the store mirror. 

"You mean your imaginary ones," John replied in a bored tone. She turned around to give him the finger before turning around towards the mirror again. He sat there in the boutique watching Mackenzie try on different dresses. They all looked the same to him. She even got an attitude when he told her that he couldn't tell the difference between two pink dresses. This was not how he wanted to spend his afternoon. 

"My breasts are fabulous... thank you very much," she replied. John rolled his eyes. This chick was really starting to irritate him. He was so close to telling her he had to go to the bathroom and sneaking out just to get away from her. 

"Right. If thinking you actually have a coke bottle helps you sleep at night then go right ahead," he retorted with a smile. He felt his phone vibrating on his leg. He quickly took it out of the pocket of his cargo pants and looked at the caller ID. Kim. 

"Hey sexy," he said smiling. His smile quickly faded when he heard a series of sniffles. Was she crying? 

"Hey John. I know this may be weird, but I didn't know who else to call. Are you busy?" said the small voice on the other line. 

"No I'm not busy. What's going on? Are you ok?" he asked. He noticed Mackenzie look at him and mouth the words, 'who's that?' 

"Actually no I'm not. Do you think you can come over?" she asked in a shaky voice. 

"Yeah. Of course. Just give me the address and I'll be there as soon as I can," he replied, exchanging glances with Mackenzie. He listened on the phone for a few more minutes before he finally hung-up. He got up and was about to go when Mackenzie grabbed his arm. 

"Where do you think you're going? I haven't finished picking out a dress," she stated. 

"I didn't sign up for dress shopping. I'm leaving. Besides all I did was comment on how every single dress looked the same on you," he said before turning back around. 

"You also didn't sign up to be Kim's little shoulder to cry on," she scoffed. 

"No, I didn't sign up for that either, but listening to her bitch about something serious is better than listening to you talk about your lip gloss and your dress," he retorted on his way out the door. Mackenzie rolled her eyes before walking back into the dressing room. 

********* 

Justin yelled out a string of profanities all the way up to his room. He was pissed and he was upset. Upset that even in anger the girl he loved told him she regretted losing her virginity to him. He felt so crappy for making her walk home. It was strange. He never felt contrite about doing anything to a girl, but with Kim he always felt bad if he did something to upset her. It was an odd new feeling.

He walked into his room and slammed the door shut. He laid down on the bed and reached into his pocket. He took out his phone and turned it off. All he wanted to do was lay down and think. He didn't want to talk to anyone or face any type of distraction. He closed his eyes and thought deeply about everything that happened today. 

He groaned just thinking about the way Kim felt around his dick. She was so perfect and tight. She was like some addictive drug and all he wanted was another fix. His fingers itched to touch her skin again, to feel her body on top of his again. Damn, he missed her so much and she hadn't even been gone that long. It was incredible the effect she had over him. 

He couldn't believe they had sex on his swing set. That had to be one of the weirdest places he'd ever had sex. Yet, it was one of the most satisfying. He could feel his semi-erect cock quickly coming to life just thinking about it. It got to the point where it was almost painful. He didn't want to jack off so there was only one other solution. He got up from the bed and made his way to the bathroom adjacent to his bedroom to take a cold shower. 

His cold shower lasted more than a few minutes and somehow it sent a jolt of realization through his brain. Kim was right. He did act like a dick and he shouldn't have kicked her out. He walked over to his bed and grabbed his phone. She'd left about an hour ago so she was probably half-way to her house. He turned his cellphone on and dialed her number quickly. He listened as it rang for what seemed like forever before he heard a voice on the other line tell him that his call was forwarded to voicemail. He sighed and waited until he heard the familiar beep indicating he could start saying his message. 

"Kimmy, it's Justin. Listen, I'm an asshole ok and I'm sorry. Call me back when you get this message and let me know if you got home safely," he said quietly. He hung up the phone and was extremely close to calling her again when he decided not to. 

'Maybe you should go try to go find her,' he thought to himself. 'Or maybe you should give her some space. If she ignored your call then she obviously doesn't want to talk to you just yet. Give her some time,' he thought after a moment. 

He was so confused. He'd never cared about another girl this way before and now he was. It was a new experience for him and he didn't know if he should be scared shitless or embrace the new feeling. Kimberly was definitely doing some strange things to his head.

********* 

John had arrived at Kimberly's apartment in less than twenty minutes. When she opened the door he saw that his theory had been correct. She was crying. Her eyes were red and puffy and her nose had a small reddish tint to it. She got out of the way and let him inside. She walked over to her small loveseat while he shrugged off his jacket. 

"I'm sorry for bothering you," she apologized. He waved away her apology. 

"Don't apologize. Like I said, I wasn't busy. What's going on?" he asked, taking a seat next to her. She looked down at her hands and fiddled with her thumbs. 

"I got in an argument with Justin," she explained sadly.

"What happened? What did he say to you?" John asked in a concerned tone. She looked up into his eyes and lowered her head to his shoulder. He comforted her the best way he knew how. It wasn't like he listened to chicks blab about their problems on a regular basis. 

"We made up and we went to his house to play video games. He asked me to prom and I told him I was going with you so he got angry. We got into an argument and I said some things that I didn't mean. He kicked me out and I had to walk home. I've never seen him so angry before," she said sobbing again. John was shocked. Mackenzie's plan was actually working. He still thought it was a dumb idea, but that air-headed, fake blonde's plan was working. 

"It's okay. He'll get over it," John said hoping it would end her crying. 

"I just can't believe it. We've never fought before, but lately everything's been so shitty between us," she cried. She snuggled deeper into John's embrace and sniffled lightly. 

"Are you gonna change your mind about going to prom with me?" John asked while rubbing her back. She shook her head no and looked up at him. 

"No. I made a promise to be your date. I'm not going to go back on my word," she said softly. She gave him a genuine smile before returning to her place on his shoulder. "He'll just have to deal with it," she continued. 

"He's not gonna try to beat me up is he?" John asked worried. Kim giggled softly before shaking her head. 

"Why? Are you worried?" she laughed. 

"Have you seen that guy?! He's huge," he said with wide eyes. 

"He won't beat you up. He's not that violent," she teased lightly. 

"Well I would be if the prettiest girl in school denied my request to go to prom for the new Asian in school," he replied. Kim giggled softly. 

"I'm serious. I'd be on a rampage. The hulk would have nothing on me," he continued. Kim smiled and chuckled. Just having John there was making her feel better. His small little jokes were making her completely forget about her sadness. 

"Thanks for coming over," she said slowly. 

"Hey no prob. Anytime you call me, I'll be there in a flash. I'll be like your own personal superhero minus the tights," he said. She laughed and moved away from his hug. 

"Do you want something to eat?" she asked. He nodded and she rose up from the couch. She walked over to the kitchen and John stared at her round ass as she walked. She turned around and smiled at him.

"Stop looking at my ass, John" she said, pointing her finger at him. John smiled slyly and shrugged his shoulders.

"I'll try, but I'm not making any promises." Kim smiled and narrowed her eyes while walking backwards into the kitchen.

********

Monday rolled around quickly and school felt different. There was so much chaos going on. Teachers were unusually happy most likely because they were counting down the days until the seniors would be gone. Different cliques in the school were actually tying to make conversation with their complete opposites, like the preps and the Goths or the jocks and the nerds. People from the school committee were busy setting up prom decorations so each class was short two to five people. Everything about Monday seemed odd and out of balance. 

Kim had ignored Justin as much as possible. Whenever he called she would ignore his calls and erase his messages without even listening to them. As far as she was concerned he never existed. That morning as soon as she got off the bus Justin ran up to her. She walked increasing her pace each second as he stalked behind her. 

"Kimmy wait," he pleaded. When she continued walking he increased his stride until they were side by side. She didn't look at him. She looked at the school, at her peers on the right side of her or at her cuticles. She looked anywhere just not at him.

"Will you just wait two seconds?" he asked almost desperately. She looked at him with disdain and rolled her eyes. He grabbed her arm but one look from her made him immediately let go.

"Just hear me out for a second," he said. Kim was about to respond with a blunt 'fuck you,' before she felt someone's arm slide across her shoulders. She looked up at John who quickly smiled down at her and looked at Justin. She watched the two boys size each other up like two pit bulls who were getting ready to go at it in a dog fight. 

"Is there a problem here?" John asked tightly. He didn't look at Kim when he asked; he was just staring at Justin. His eyes trying to mentally burn a hole into him as did Justin's. 

"No, but we should hurry up and get to class," Kim replied. She looked at Justin one more time before John led her away towards the building. She knew Justin was watching and it made her stomach jerk violently. 'I don't care if he's watching,' she told herself. 'Fuck him.'

*********

Mackenzie was in her own personal heaven. Over the past week she watched Justin and Kim openly ignore each other in school. Well, Kim was doing most of the ignoring, but still they weren't talking. She couldn't of thought of a better gift. Justin hadn't mentioned that slut once during lunch or any other time they were talking. They even got after-school detention for refusing to work together in chemistry. 

She figured her plan was working quite well. However, she wasn't expecting Justin to ask her out to prom, but she definitely wasn't complaining. She had dumped Andrew's ass a few days after her party and figured Justin finally came to his senses and asked her out. She was so ecstatic that she'd been bragging about it for days. It was so obvious he was going to be prom king and she was going to be his queen. It was perfect. That alone should have been a sign that they belonged together. 

She sat at her vanity with a huge smile on her face as the hair and make-up artist she hired worked their magic. The woman had already done her make-up and moved to her hair about forty minutes ago. Mackenzie completely trusted this woman. Why shouldn't she? This was the same woman who did her aunt's hair and make-up countless times and her aunt always looked nothing short of spectacular. The petite woman who had a thick Russian accent concentrated over her lips one last time before fanning her hair over her shoulders with a smile.

"You will be the most gorgeous girl at the dance," the woman exclaimed. Mackenzie marveled at how beautiful her hair was.

"Nina, this looks wonderful," she beamed. She carefully ran her fingers down her hair. She got up off of the stool and walked over to her bed that contained her dress. She held it up against her body and smiled knowingly. She was going to make sure Justin never thought about another girl after tonight.

"That dress is fabulous," Nina exclaimed. 

"I know. I mean would I show up at prom in anything but the hottest clothes," Mackenzie replied smugly. The woman giggled softly and nodded her head.

"You sound just like your aunt," she said in that thick accent. 

"Thank you," she replied. 

"I'll let you get dressed," Nina stated while already on her way to leave the room. She closed the door behind her. Mackenzie shrugged off her robe and let it fall to the floor. She walked over to her tall mirror and looked at her petite frame in the mirror. Her skimpy underwear made her body look more incredible than it already was. She looked over at her dress and giggled softly.

'Tonight I'm gonna blow Justin's fucking mind,' she thought.

*********

Justin nervously tied the bow around his neck. He watched himself closely in the mirror while he tried to fix the bow to perfection. He had asked Mackenzie to the dance because he wanted to see how Kim would react to it. Secretly he wanted the fact that he was going to prom with her enemy to really get under her skin. Just like her going with John got under his. Over the past week he'd been fighting with anger and regret. He was still angry that she said she made a mistake by having sex with him, but he felt like the king of assholes for screaming at her and making her walk home. He was also mad that she said a whopping fifteen words to him the entire week.

He was trying to apologize to her, but she wouldn't accept his calls and all week she refused to acknowledge his presence. When he tried to talk to her she would walk right past him and when she actually did look at him, her expression was anything but friendly. He had to restrain himself from dropping down to his knees in front of the whole school and begging her for forgiveness. That wasn't his style, but he would happily go through any embarrassment if it meant she'd forgive him.

She had also been hanging out with John lately. He felt like some kind of stalker watching them eat lunch together, walk to classes' together, hang out in study hall together. His blood would boil and he felt murderous whenever he saw John give her a small peck on her cheek before she walked inside a class. That fucker was all over his territory and he didn't appreciate it whatsoever. He wanted her all to himself and he was not about to share with some other guy. 

Yet, tonight he wasn't angry, he was nervous as hell. It wasn't because of Mackenzie; he could care less about her. It was because of Kim. He was anxious to see what she looked like in her dress. If she looked as delicious in the dress as she did out of it. If the dress made her scandalous curves look even more outrageous. He had to stop himself before he got hard thinking about the dazzling ebony goddess. Besides he was not supposed to be lusting after her. He was supposed to figure out how to tell her how he felt.

He walked over to his bed and sat beside his jacket. He lowered his head in his hands and took a deep breath. 'Just breathe man and think positive. Just apologize, tell her how you feel and hope to God she forgives your dumb ass,' he thought. He scoffed loudly after a moment. That was so much easier said than done. Why was it so hard for him to tell her? It was like every time he was near her he swallowed his tongue. Then when he actually could speak he said the dumbest shit and ended up hurting her. She may not have known it, but she had his heart wrapped around her little pinky. Tonight he was going to make sure she knew that if it was the last thing she did. 

"Hey the limousine is here?" Steve exclaimed with a small knock on the door. Justin exhaled sharply and ran his hand down his face. He looked up at his stepfather and tried his best to smile brightly, but Steve noticed the distress in Justin's eyes.

"You ok? What's bothering you?" he asked, walking into the room and sitting down on the bed. "I know you don't really like opening up to me about stuff, but you do know I'm here if you need me, right?"




Closer Ch. 03



Justin looked at the man. His light hazel eyes were genuine and full of concern. He looked away and sighed loudly. Any other time he would have dismissed Steve's claim that something was the matter, but tonight he couldn't do it. He had to talk to Steve about this.

"Kim." Justin whispered. He brought his hand to the back of his neck and rubbed until he felt somewhat better.

"Oh, I see. I was wondering when you'd finally ask me for advice about this," Steve stated. Justin looked at his father confused. How the hell did he know? The man arched his eyebrows and smiled softly. "What, you didn't think I noticed how your eyes get all hazy when your mother brings her up during dinner. You didn't think I saw you staring at her butt the last time she was over here?" Steve continued. Justin groaned and his stepfather laughed whole heartedly. 

"We're not speaking." Justin said softly. "She hates my guts and I can't really say that I blame her."

"Well what happened?" Steve asked. 

Justin hesitated, not really wanting to go into details about everything. "We, uh, ended up getting together. Then we uh kinda got into a fight because of prom and I kicked her out of the house. Ever since then she's been acting like I don't exist and hanging out with John Ho," Justin spat out John's name with complete disgust.

"Do you love Kimmy?" Steve asked.

"No," Justin replied quickly. Then he sighed softly. "Yes," he said slower. There was no point in lying to the man when he already knew the truth.

"Does she know that?" 

"No. And I don't know if she feels the same. I mean she said she was in love with me, but she was drunk. She doesn't even remember that night she said it," Justin exclaimed.

"Well you know how the old saying goes: 'A drunken man's words are a sober man's thoughts.' Well in Kim's case a drunken woman." Steve exclaimed.

"Even if she did love me the way that I love her I don't think it would be smart if we got together." 

"Why's that?" Steve asked.

"Because I don't want to hurt her. I have been such a jerk to girls before. Like when Willa Matthews told me she thought she was pregnant and I stopped talking to her. Or when Susan DeMarco slept with me and I told everyone she was easy. I just don't want to hurt her like I hurt them and risk her hating me forever." Justin replied with pain lacing his voice. 

Steve nodded his head and took a deep breath. "Well if you're man enough to admit that you've fucked up royally in the past then that means you've matured. Even if you haven't realized it, but I've seen you become wiser just a little bit every day since I married your mom. In love you have to be willing to take risk because love is a complicated puzzle that you have to figure out. You can't say that you'll never hurt Kim because that's just not reality. You two will hurt each other intentionally or unintentionally until the day you die. Just like you did with Kim last weekend, but if your love for someone is deep enough you'll be able to overcome any obstacle you face. I know you love Kim, even if you've never said it before and I know Kim love's you too. I see it in the both of your eyes all the time. I've seen it ever since you two were fifteen. Don't be afraid to love her because if you hold back you'll never be happy. Then eventually your unhappiness will lead to hers," Steve lectured. 

Justin listened to his stepfather intently and believed every single word that came out of his mouth. He would talk to Kim tonight and tell her how he felt. Hopefully he'd be able to pull it off smoothly.

"I better get going, before everyone decides to leave me," Justin lightly joked before getting off the bed and grabbing the jacket to his tux. 

"Remember what I said," Steve said, pointing his finger at his stepson. 

"I will," Justin replied before walking out of the door. "I definitely will," he repeated silently to himself.

*********

Kim had arrived at the prom with John just as everything was getting started. She was super excited to see how everything looked. All during high school she never went to a dance or her junior prom and she was anticipating to see what all the fuss was about. Her dress was a deep cherry red color with a heart shaped bustline and a large slit going down her left leg. She felt beautiful and Mrs. Marshall made sure to take over a million pictures before she left.

John led her into the gymnasium and she immediately froze to look at the scenery. It was marvelous. No, it was better than marvelous, but she couldn't find any other word to describe it. The main colors used were purple and white. There was a huge arch in the entrance full of balloons with small amounts of ribbon. A photographer was taking pictures of various couples behind a picture of Venice, Italy. She truly felt like a princess at a huge ball and the only thing missing was her tiara. 

"We should take a picture," John suggested while tugging her towards the photographer. She allowed him to take her into line behind the other waiting couples.

"Kim, you look like you belong on the red carpet," Holly Stewart commented. Kim smiled at her compliment and noticed how Holly's date turned around to look at her. His eyes quickly widened then turned normal as his face formed a sly smile. It didn't take a genius to know what he was thinking. 

"Thank you," Kim replied before turning to look at John. He was smiling brightly, obviously happy that he came with the girl who looked the hottest. He took hold of her hand and they both waited in silence until it was their turn.

When they were done taking pictures they quickly set out to find a table to sit at. Kim had decided they would be better off sitting with some of her friends. They both took their seats near her friends; Edie, Brittany and Maria. Edie had Brody Thompson as a date while Brittany and Maria decided to go together.

"Damn girl, you gonna give Beyonce a run for her money in that dress," Brittany stated, snapping her fingers. 

"I bet your dress is ten times better than any dress Mackenzie decided to wear," Maria laughed. Edie and Brittany nodded their heads in agreement. 

"Does anyone like Mackenzie?" John asked with a smile.

"Only the stuck up rich kids she hangs out with and they might not even like her," Maria replied. Edie pointed her finger in the direction of the arch entrance and snickered.

"Speak of the devil," she said. Everyone turned to look at the 'it' people in school make their grand entrance. Mackenzie was wearing a strapless short red dress with white sequins that stopped just above her knees and flared out slightly. Kim had barely noticed the other people in the group because her attention quickly went from Mackenzie to the person she was all over: Justin. What the hell was he doing here with that bitch? She was clinging to him like some old cougar trying to show off her hot, young boyfriend. 

"Is that Justin?" Brittany asked in disbelief. 

"Yeah," Kim replied, rolling her eyes. She turned around not wanting to see Justin with that dumb cougar. She didn't want it too, but seeing them together extremely irked her. 'Don't let it ruin your night,' she coached herself. 

"She looks so trashy. He should've chosen someone with a bit more class, but this is Justin we're talking about. His decisions in woman can be pretty bad. I still wouldn't mind hitting that though," Maria laughed and majority of the people at the table chimed in. Everyone joined the laugh except for John. John groaned loudly.

"Too much info. What about me and Brody? You can't call another guy sexy without complimenting the guys at your table first," he stated. The girls laughed again.

"Brody and John, you guys are sexy too," Maria stated after her giggle fit. 

"Damn straight," Brody and John said at the same time. The girls laughed again and Edie snuggled up against her date. Everyone's group suddenly halted when they saw Mackenzie, Justin, Rory, Andrew, Susan and every other popular kid in school sit at the table next to theirs. 

"Shit," Brittany cursed silently. She hated those kids with every fiber of her being. They were total jerks to her their entire junior high and high school years. What started out as a simple dislike for them grew into full blown detestation. Brittany was also upset that Justin was hanging out with those kinds of people.

Kim looked at Justin and Mackenzie took their seats which gave her a perfect view of the couple. Ugh, she didn't like this one bit. She planned on ignoring Justin during prom and now she was getting front row seats to him and his date. She tried to focus on the new conversation that started at her table, but the couple at the next table was destroying her concentration. 

Mackenzie was sitting next to Justin leaning in extra close, trying to shove the breast she didn't have in his face. She had her hand in his lap and squeezed and massaged his thigh. Justin looked at Mackenzie and smiled before taking his glass of water. He asked her a question that made her smile and blush before she whispered her answer into his ear. When she was done speaking she decided to bring the bottom of his earlobe into her mouth and raise the hand that had been resting on his thigh higher. When Mackenzie was done she turned her head to the side and smiled evilly at Kim. That was it! She couldn't watch anymore.

"Excuse me, I have to go to the bathroom," she stated before getting out her chair.

"Ok, we can dance when you come back," John said. Kim barely heard him as she made a beeline towards the ladies restroom. She damn near tackled a poor girl with thick glasses. She pushed open the door and walked inside. She paced around the small space before she heard one of the toilets flush and a bathroom stall door open. 

"Oh, hey Kimberly. I'm so happy you were able to make it and that dress. Oh my god, that dress is to die for. Every time a boy looks at you in that dress they look lost. I hope you're having a good time," Miss Roesnbaum said with a smile. Miss Rosenbaum was Kim's math teacher. 

"I am and thank you for complimenting my dress," Kim replied softly. The teacher washed her hands and turned off the faucet before looking at her soon to be former student. 

"You're welcome. Remember to take a lot of pictures. Prom night is something you should always remember. I should get going, I promised Mr. McMahon I'd save him a dance," she stated. Kim smiled and watched Miss Rosenbaum leave the girl's bathroom.

Kim looked at herself in the mirror. She did look beautiful in the dress, but the one person she actually wanted to notice was all hugged up on Little Miss Hoochie. She had to admit that she was a little jealous. She laughed softly. Now she knew why Justin was mad at her going with John. It still didn't excuse the way he acted. She heard the door open and lock. She turned to look at who just entered and it was the one person she didn't want to see. Mackenzie.

"Hey sexxxyyy," Mackenzie said as she strutted over towards Kim in her stiletto heels. Kim rolled her eyes with as much attitude as she could and was about to leave when Mackenzie blocked her path. "I was thinking that maybe we should have a little girl time. Just me and you," she continued.

"Mackenzie you're the last person on earth I'd ever want to have 'girl time' with," Kim retorted, placing a hand on her hip.

"Kimmy, we graduate next Friday. I think you should just accept the fact that the better woman won," Mackenzie exclaimed with a shrug of her shoulders. 

"How do you figure that?" Kim asked narrowing her eyes. 

"Well it's obvious that he wants nothing to do with you and he's clearly come to his senses. I mean he's on to bigger and better things. You didn't really expect him to lower his standards and hang out with the poorest person in school all his life did you?" Kim scoffed and moved closer towards her. 

"If you ask me, he lowered his standards when he decided to be with the fakest, easiest and dumbest person in school. Besides what makes you think it's him avoiding me? I'm the one who stopped talking to him. Why don't you try to get you're facts straight before you try to act like some high and mighty bitch. I guess it's not you're fault though, you probably have issues because you're parents left you to live with your aunt," Kim countered slowly. She saw Mackenzie clench her jaw tightly. 

"At least I know who my father is and my mother isn't some cheap hooker," Mackenzie replied taking a step closer to Kim. There was a frantic knock on the door, but both girls ignored it. They were too busy trying to intimidate each other. Kim may have been much shorter than Mackenzie, but she wasn't worried. She'd seen Mackenzie fight and the most damage she ever did was scratching. Kim on the other hand could fight better than most men. Just ask Justin. 

"My mom did a pretty good job in raising me. Too bad I can't say the same thing about yours. Your mom should've taught you that when a guy has no interest in you, the best thing you can do is back off," Kim said through gritted teeth. Any fool with a pulse knew Justin didn't like Mackenzie and it was obvious that she was infatuated with him. 

"Well Justin seemed to like me when I sucked his dick in the limo," Mackenzie replied viciously. Kim's eyes widened slightly, but she quickly recovered, not wanting to let on that the statement bothered her. 

"Seems to me like that's the only thing you're good for isn't it. I bet you've blown more boys than Jenna Jameson. Only difference is she gets paid to do it. You on the other hand will just do it for free like the little slut you are," Kim replied before pushing past the girl and unlocking the door. She opened it and was about to walk out when Mackenzie screamed out.

"Justin and I belong together and we will be together. He's my man," Kim turned around and looked at the other girl.

"If he's your man then why are you trying so hard to convince me that he is? I think you're desperate and you're trying to convince yourself," Kim countered before walking out. Mackenzie stood there for a moment with her arms crosses and watched as the door closed. 

*********

Justin couldn't keep his eyes off Kim. That dress she wore tonight literally took his breath away. She looked perfect and the dress made her mouth watering curves look sinful. He watched as she made a dash towards the bathroom and had to keep himself from following her. Her ass taunted him with each step she took and her breast looked ready to pop out of that dress. He also had to restrain himself from beating the hell out of every straight male at the dance. Oh yeah he saw the looks they were shooting Kim when she walked past them and he didn't like it. She was his girl. 

Justin watched Kim come out of the bathroom looked pissed. She quickly changed her expression in order to discourage people from asking if she was ok. He watched as she walked over to her table and take the hand of her date. He watched her lips move asking John to dance. He shook his head and got out of the chair before walking with her towards the dance floor. He looked over in another direction as Mackenzie walked over to him and sat down on his lap.

"Did you miss me?" she asked, wrapping her arms around his neck. 

"Yeah," he replied, taking a sip from his glass of water. He looked over at Andrew who smiled very amused at the situation. Andrew knew everything that happened between Justin and Kim and knew that the only reason Justin asked Mackenzie to prom was to make Kim jealous. He thought that it was hilarious, especially since he caught Kim and Justin glance in each other's direction every two seconds. Too bad their dates were the innocent bystanders in this little war. Well maybe John, but anything that happened to Mackenzie wasn't a major issue. She deserved anything bad that happened to her. Like when she got Chlamydia during sophomore year. 

"You wanna dance?" Mackenzie asked. Justin took another sip of the water which contained a small dose of vodka. 

"Sure, let's go," he replied. He set the glass down on the table and she got off of him. They walked over to the dance floor and danced to the fast paced song together. Justin watched Mackenzie try to dance like some seductress, but her moves looked awkward and forced. He glanced over at Kim and John dancing together. They looked happy and he could honestly say he was jealous. The DJ quickly changed the song to "Boys" by Britney Spears and Mackenzie smiled brightly. 

"Oh my god, I love this song," she exclaimed. 'I bet you do,' Justin thought to himself. They danced to the song while she tried to sing along to the lyrics. Unfortunately she sounded like some cat being strangled. He wanted to be dancing with Kim, not Mackenzie. Mackenzie continued dancing to the song until the DJ's voice boomed into the microphone. 

"Ok, ladies and gentlemen grab your dates 'cause we're gonna slow things down a bit." After the announcement couples began slow dancing as the next song came on. Justin reluctantly grabbed Mackenzie's waist and brought her closer to his body. The sound of Secondhand Serenade's "Vulnerable" filled the room. He glanced over in Kim's direction and saw her swaying to the song with John. His eyes narrowed when he saw John's arms tighten around her waist as they moved closer together. Kimberly rested her head on John's shoulder and John smiled while whispering soothingly in her ear. 

"Justin this is so wonderful," Mackenzie cooed in his ear. He felt a light tap on his shoulder and turned to see their principal looking at them through his thick glasses.

"Mr. Cook, Miss Myers you two look beautiful. After the song we're going to announce prom king and queen. Good luck," the man stated.

"Thank you, principal Corgan," Mackenzie said sweetly. When the principal left and walked towards another couple Mackenzie looked up at Justin.

"We're so gonna win prom king and queen. Oh, I should get ready. I'll be right back I have to go powder my nose," she stated.

"Umm ok," Justin replied. She quickly kissed his cheek and walked over to their table. She grabbed her purse and gave her girlfriends' air kisses before hurrying to the bathroom. "Good riddance," he said.

He glanced over in Kim's direction and was surprised to see her alone on the dance floor. He searched for her date and finally found him by the punch bowl talking with another teacher. This was probably the only chance he'd get. The only time he wouldn't have Mackenzie all over him and the only time John wouldn't be near Kim. He rushed over to her and grabbed her hand. Without waiting to see how she would respond he began dragging her out of gymnasium.

"What the hell?" Kim said. He didn't listen to her protest. She tried to tug her arm out of his grasp, but he tightened his hold on her. He rushed out of the gym and walked into the hall. He made his way down the hall, stopping at every door and twisting the knob. They were all locked. He remembered that the library wouldn't be locked, it was always opened. He dragged Kim towards the end of the hall to where the library was. He opened the door and brought her inside the dark library. 

"Let go of my arm," she demanded when they got far enough into the library. He let her go and was about to say something when he felt her hand sweep across his face.

"Oww," he complained as he felt hot fire spread across his face. He turned look at her while flaring his nostrils and clenching his jaw, trying to make the pain go away. Kim didn't hit like a bitch and he knew that from past experience. She hit him again and watched in satisfaction as his face contorted in agony. 

She stuck her finger in his face and said through clenched teeth, "You know, I've been itching to do that all week."

"I deserved that," he replied while rubbing his cheek. "Now that that's over, we need to talk," he continued. 




Closer Ch. 03



"I have nothing to say to you," she replied before trying to walk away. He grabbed her arm and watched her slowly turn around to face him.

"Kim please wait a second. I'm sorry. I'm so fucking sorry ok. You're my best friend and we're graduating next week. I don't want my memory of high school to be me driving my best friend away," he said. He watched as her eyes filled with angry tears and she wiped them away, careful not to mess up her make-up. He walked towards her, about to give her a hug when she pulled away.

"Don't touch me. Do not touch me," she cried in a cracking voice. "Too many people have waltz in and out of my life and sometimes it's not their fault, but it still hurts. Like your dad and Adrienne. But I haven't seen my dad since I was three and my mom just decided to leave with that lowlife boyfriend of hers. The one thing in my life that's been consistent is my friendship with you and now you're starting to act like a total prick. You either avoid me or treat me like total shit. I don't know if I can count on you to be here for me anymore and that's not a feeling I like having, Justin."

"Kim, I'll always be here for you," Justin said taking a step closer. "I admit I've been a jerk, but I can explain. That's why I brought you over here, so I could apologize and explain," he exclaimed. They stopped talking long enough to hear a muffled announcement coming from the gymnasium. They were about to announce prom king and queen.

"We should go. You're about to be crowned," Kim said quietly.

"I don't care about that. Just let me explain," 

"I don't want your explanation besides shouldn't you be with the girl who blew you before you came here?" she asked with disgust written all over her face. 

"What are you talking about?" he asked in confusion. 

"You're little girlfriend followed me into the bathroom and told me all about how she sucked your dick in the limo."

"Ok. First off, that never happened. I wouldn't have done that with her even if I wanted to. Did you seriously think I would've let her blown me in front of my friends in that limo? We all know Mackenzie is bold, but as hard as it is to believe even she has restrictions," he replied. Kim rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

"Your new prom queen is.....Mackenzie Myers," the principal's voice sounded in the background along with the sound of applause. "And you're new prom king is.....Justin Cook." There was another round of applause.

"Kim please just let me explain," he said after the announcement. 

"Fine. Go ahead, but if I don't like your answer I'll slap you again," Kim warned. Justin licked his lips and exhaled deeply. 

"Ok. I was jealous of that guy—" he started.

"You mean John?" she interrupted.

"Yeah, that guy. Anyway when you said you were going with him jealousy took over and I flipped out. You're like the first chick to ever reject me," he joked lightly. 

"That's all you have to say? Goodbye," Kim exclaimed while she began walking away.

"Kim you can't leave!" he yelled out staring at her retreating form in the dark library.

"And why's that?" she asked, not slowing down.

"Because I love you and that's why I did everything I did. I was jealous because the girl I'm in love with was going to prom with another guy. I was so jealous and I handled it in the most immature way possible and I'm sorry. But I love you too much to let you go. I need you," he replied, desperation lacing his voice. He watched her movements slow down and then stop completely at his words. She turned around and walked slowly towards him.

"Y-You love me?" she asked in a small voice. 

"Yeah. I've loved you ever since I was a seven year old kid who didn't even know the true meaning of the word. I've just been too stupid and arrogant to accept it because the last thing I wanted was to fall for you and then break your heart. You of all people should know that my history with girls is anything but squeaky clean. I love you too much to ever do that to you. It's just lately everything's been becoming clearer and I didn't know how to deal with it. I can't get you out of my head and I don't want to. I want to be the guy you can depend on, the guy you wake up to each morning. I want to be your best friend and more. I want you, Kimmy and only you," he replied. She walked up to him and stopped just far enough until their bodies were inches apart from each other.

"Has anyone seen our prom king?" the principal's confused voice asked. Kim laughed softly.

"I think their about to send a search party but I have something to say too. I love you too, Justin. I know your history with girls and despite your flaws I still love you. But you have to understand that you hurt me so bad and that's something I'll never forget no matter how many times you apologize," she said with her head down. He lifted her chin up to meet his intense gaze. She had fresh tears in her eyes.

"Hey don't cry Kimmy. I don't like seeing you cry," he stated. She shrugged her shoulders slightly and wiped at her fallen tears.

"I can't help it," she replied. He leaned down towards her and she closed her eyes instinctively. She felt his lips on her forehead, then on her eyelids and then the bridge of her nose. He kissed her cheek and the trail where a tear had fallen. 

"I love you too much to ever watch you cry," he whispered before claiming her lips with his. She kissed him back gently and brought her arms up and wrapped them around his neck. He parted her lips with his tongue and dove into the depth of her mouth. Their tongues massaged each other and teased each other. 

Justin wrapped his arms tightly around her waist and brought her closer to him. His body ached to be as close to hers as possible. He lowered his hands to her ass and squeezed lightly before slapping each cheek. She moaned into his mouth as he backed her up towards one of library tables. 

"What if someone comes in here looking for you?" she asked, breaking the kiss. 

"I doubt anyone's looking for me," he replied as music began blasting loudly. Their lips reconnected and his tongue caressed hers. He picked her up making her dress rise higher before setting her on the table. 

"I love you," she whispered.

"I love you more," he replied. He brought his hand up to the top of her back and found the zipper to her dress. He pulled it down and let the top of her dress fall quickly until it stopped at her waist. He lowered his hands and reached under her dress to grab her panties only he came in contact with her bare pussy. 

"Why aren't you wearing panties?" he asked. She smiled and shrugged her shoulders.

"I didn't want anyone to see my panty line," she replied. He smiled and brought his lips back to hers. He pushed up the bottom of her dress and broke off the kiss, lowering his mouth to one of her delicious brown nipples. He smiled against her flesh when she gasped loudly and grabbed his hair. He massaged one breast while paying special attention to the other. He licked and sucked on her nipples until he wanted more of her. He wanted to see how she tasted. To give her something he'd never given another girl. He pushed her down slowly onto her back and made a trail from the valley of her breast to her bellybutton. He licked her bellybutton causing her to giggle softly before he moved on. 

He stopped his trail of kisses and smiled up at her before diving underneath the hem of her dress. He kissed his way up her inner thigh causes her breath to speed up the closer he got to her sweet spot. He decided to tease her and lick her slit slowly. She shuddered under his touch and tightened his grip on his hair. 

"You look good enough to eat," he told her before parting her lips with his tongue. He tongued her relishing in the sweet taste of her body. He kissed all over her making sure every single inch of her didn't go untouched. He sucked on her clit as her legs clamped shut around his head. He smiled before bringing his hands up to pry her legs back open. He sucked on her clit again and listened as she gasped and moaned over and over again. He began moving his tongue in and out of her sweet love nest, mimicking the motions he planned on doing to her later on.

"Ungh, Justin you have to stop," she gasped out, trying to close her legs again. He stopped he legs from moving, but that didn't stop her from bucking her hips. She couldn't help it. The feeling was just too intense. There were no words in the dictionary to describe it. It was like a combination of feelings. She'd call it amazing-wonderful-perfecto. She had to slap her hand against her mouth to keep from screaming out. 

"Ooooh. Oh. It's too much, I can't...," she half moaned-half gasped. Her breathing was so erratic she thought she might pass out. She tilted her head against the table and groaned loudly. She could feel what was going to be one hell of an orgasm building. She could barely stop herself from screaming.

"Don't hold back, Kimmy. Let me hear you sing," he said seductively. He took her clit back into his mouth and sucked on it harder. He wanted to hear her scream out because of the pleasure he was giving her. He wanted to hear her scream out his name.

"Oh, fuck. I'm-I'm. Oh, God, Justin, ugh," she screamed out as a series of orgasms took over her body. Justin lapped up the juices leaking freely from her body, wanting to consume every single drop. She tasted so good and she was his, all his. 

"Stop, please stop. I can't take anymore," she said breathlessly. He looked up at her and smiled confidently. He got up and placed his body in between her spread legs on the small table. He kissed her cheek softly while his arms rested on either side of her body. 

He lowered his mouth to her ear and whispered, "Baby, we're only getting started." Kim looked at him and smiled weakly. Justin moved one hand down to his pants and unbuckled them.

"Condom," Kim reminded him. He looked at her and smiled goofily.

"I told you I never leave home without one," he replied. Kim unzipped his pants and lowered them as far as she could before doing the same with his boxers. She looked down as his beautiful cock sprang free from its confines. Justin reached into the pocket of his jacket and pulled out a bunch of condoms. "Do you have any specific request? Let's see there's lubricated, non-lubricated, ribbed, cherry flavored and Durex Performax — my personal favorite," he joked. She playfully hit him on the arm and laughed.

"You freak," she said playfully. 

"Yeah, but I'm your freak," he replied nipping her neck softly. "So what'll it be?" he asked.

"Hmmm well you did say the Durex was your favorite. Let's go with that one," she replied.

"Durex it is," he stated. She watched him open the condom and move his hands between their bodies to put on the piece of latex. When he was done he looked up at her and kissed her lips. She could taste her juices that remained on his lips. "I love you," he whispered.

"I love you more," she said before he swiftly thrust to the hilt. She arched her back and they both moaned at the unification of their bodies. He pumped slowly enjoying the feel of her wrapped around his dick. 

"Mmmm, go faster," she said in between deep intakes of breath. He did as she commanded and moved faster and harder. She moaned with each thrust he made and raked her fingernails across his suit jacket. He was killing her, but oh what a great death it would be. She felt another orgasm building and she already knew it would be just as intense as the last one. 

Justin kissed Kim and it took her breath away. He nipped playfully at her full lips before his tongue dipped into her mouth. Her moans vibrated in his mouth as he pumped faster. She broke the kiss and turned her head to the side.

" Fuck," she moaned out breathlessly. She could feel it coming and she welcomed the feeling with open arms. That first spasm knocked the wind right out of her. She closed her eyes and braced herself. "Ungh," she moaned out. She clutched his shoulders tightly and she felt her eyes roll back. She was panting so much that the scream that escaped her mouth came out as a cross between a loud gasp and a loud cry. She felt the spasms rip through her one on top of the other. She swore she was having an out of body experience. 

"Ungh, shit," she cried out when she could find her voice. She felt Justin scoop his arms underneath her body and flip her over until she was on top of him. She looked down at him and smiled. He rubbed her lower back slowly while biting his lower lip.

"Ride me," he growled out. She lowered her head and began to move up and down slowly. She began to rotate her hip around in small circles against his huge dick. He groaned out and tightened his grip on her waist. He eased her up and down faster until she got the hint and sped up her movements. Her hands rested against his chest as she felt yet another orgasm building.

"Oh, Justin," she moaned out. She pumped harder and faster which was slowly driving him crazy.

"God Kim, you're my dirty girl, babe," he said through clenched teeth. He could feel his own release coming. The groans he released were loud and uncontrolled. She truly felt amazing. She moaned out at her new nick name. "Say it, Kimmy. Say you're my dirty girl," he commanded softly.

"Uh, I'm-I'm you're d-dirty girl, Ju-Ju-Justin," she stammered out. The building pressure of her pending orgasm made it hard for her to form words. Hell she couldn't even think. "C-c-cum for your d-dirty girl," she said softly, leaning down to kiss his delicious lips. He kissed her like his life depended on it. It was hungry and possessive and...sexy.

"Only if you cum for me first," he replied after breaking the kiss. Kim groaned out and pumped faster and harder. She needed this next release. She needed to feel that heavenly feeling again before the night was over. Justin leaned up and took one of her succulent nipples into his mouth. She gasped out loud and pumped even faster as her head fell back.

"Ooooohhh, Justin. I'm-I'm, ooh fuck, I'm c-c-cumming," she cried out as a wave of pure bliss shook her body violently. She braced herself against his chest. This feeling was so powerful she felt like she would levitate off the table if she wasn't hanging on to him.

"Oh shit, Kimmy," Justin groaned out. Kim's walls clenched so tightly it was almost painful. He felt every single spurt of his cum shoot into the condom. She milked his body bone dry and he felt completely empty. He felt her shaking violently from her powerful orgasm and laid his sweaty back against the table. She quickly collapsed on top of him, panting. They laid there trying to catch their breaths while rubbing various parts of each other's bodies. Justin's slowly deflating dick was still in her body and he felt a bunch of shudders from the aftershock of her orgasm. He kissed the top of her head before finally relaxing against the hard table.

"I can see why all the girls in school loved you," Kim laughed. Justin joined in while rubbing the top of her damped back. 

"But I've only returned those feelings to one girl," he replied softly. Kim snuggled deeper into his embrace and turned her head to kiss his chest. When she was done showering his chest with love she kissed his lips. The kiss was soft, slow and movie-like. It was the kind of kiss most directors in films tried to create. 

"We should probably go. I don't want you to hurt your back on this hard as table. Mine's still kinda sore," she said. "Besides you need to go into the gym and get your crown."

"I don't want that crown," he stated as she got off of him and fixed her dress.

"Why not? You deserved it," she exclaimed. She turned her back towards him and turned her head to the side. "Can you zip me up?" she asked. Justin fixed his pants and zipped them before hopping off the table and walking up to her. He grabbed the zipper and pulled it up slowly.

"Because you won't be my queen," he said quietly before kissing her neck. She turned around and smiled at him. He was such a charmer.

"Come on, let's go," she said while grabbing his hand. They walked out of the library hand and hand. As they walked down the hall they heard music from the prom blasting. They stopped just outside the arch entrance and looked inside. 

"Do you wanna go? We should take a picture," he said. Kimberly shook her head and smiled lightly.

"Yeah, I just wanna get outta here. Besides, I smell like sex and sweat," she laughed. Justin chuckled and wrapped his arms around her shoulders as he led her out of the building. 

"You came with your friends and I came in John's car. How are we getting out of here?" she asked in confusion. Justin walked her over to the limo and opened the back door.

"I'll have the driver drop us off at my house and then send him back to the school," he replied easily. He helped her into the car and told the driver to go to his address. 

"This was the best prom ever," Kim said through a giddy smile. Justin kissed her hand and smiled back at her.

"I still wished we could've gone together though," he replied. Kim shrugged and looked into his soothing blue eyes.

"It doesn't matter who we came to prom with. It's about who we leave with," she replied softly. Justin kissed her lips tenderly and pulled her closer to his side. As the limo driver drove them to their location Kim and Justin talked and kissed the whole time. Tonight he was going to show her exactly how special she was to him.

*********

"FUCKING ASSHOLE!" Mackenzie screamed out loudly in the girl's bathroom. Her tears had completely ruined her make-up and her mascara had made long black streaks down her face.

"Honey it'll be ok," her friend Rachel tried to comfort her. Her friend's were all in the bathroom trying to calm her down. She'd been utterly embarrassed when she'd been named prom queen and her king didn't even show up. She had glanced around the gym and saw John standing by the punch bowl with some other people and Kim was nowhere to be found. If both of them were missing then it didn't take some loser brainiac to know that they were together. She broke down in tears and ran off the stage while principal Corgan continued to ask if anyone knew where Justin was. She could not believe he blew her off for that skanky, low-class bitch. 

She ran straight into the bathroom followed closely behind her were her friend's Rachel and Mandy. She sobbed uncontrollably and the two girls tried their best to convince her it wasn't the end of the world. She retched and gagged until finally her vomit came and landed into the sink. Whenever she felt upset or angry she always threw up and nine times out of ten it made her feel better. This was probably not one of those times.

Mandy rubbed her back and whispered words into her ear like, 'let it all out' and 'it'll be ok.' It wasn't going to be ok. The man of her dreams, her prom king had ditched her and left with the poorest girl in school. The whole concept was completely embarrassing.

"What does he even see in her? I mean she doesn't even have money," she asked after she felt all the vomit had left her body. She wiped her mouth and grabbed a wet paper towel Rachel offered her.

"They're probably not even doing anything. They probably just went somewhere to talk because they've been fighting lately," Rachel said optimistically. Mackenzie and Mandy looked at her like she was dumb. 

"Yeah, right and I'm Paris Hilton," Mandy replied.

"You know you do kinda look like her," Rachel said in her high-voice. 

"Whatever. The point is they're probably doing way more than talking. Justin totally isn't worthy of you if he's with that gutter slut," Mandy replied. 

"She's really not that bad," Rachel said quietly. Mackenzie put her hand in the girl's face.

"Save it. He needs to realize that I'm everything he needs in a girl. I'm pretty, wealthy, smart and I'm not on welfare," Mackenzie said trying to sound confident. She held her head up high and wiped at the black lines on her face. 




Closer Ch. 04



Justin woke up early in the morning next to the soft naked body of Kim. Her arm was thrown casually around his waist, and her head was cradled to his chest. He stroked the soft strands of her straight, soft hair that fell over her shoulder. He felt so relaxed and happy that she was there right now in his bed, in his arms. This must be what heaven feels like, he thought. His hand that was resting comfortably on her shoulder rubbed lightly at the beautiful brown skin.

Kim wriggled slightly and murmured what sounded like 'Good morning.' He looked down at her and watched her look up at him. She smiled and snuggled closer to him.

"Good morning," he replied. He traced his finger down the length of her jaw and leaned down to kiss her soft lips. She giggled and pulled away from him.

"I thought you got enough last night," she said with a smile. 

"I can't get enough of you," he replied, bending down to kiss her again.

"Well can you at least do something about your morning breath? It smells horrible. You could drive death away if he came knocking at your door," she laughed. He gasped and faked a hurt look.

"Oh, look who's talking. Your breath smells like the boys bathroom and believe me that is one funny smelling room," he replied, laughing. She playfully chucked a pillow at his head and watched him dodge it. 

"Shut up. My breath doesn't stink nearly as much as yours. I feel light-headed from the smell," she laughed. It was his turn to throw the pillow at her. She laughed softly as the pillow missed her by barely an inch. She quickly pounced on him and they rolled around on the bed until he was on top of her.

"You know, I'm starting to notice a pattern. Every time you try to attack me, I end up on top of you," he laughed. He was about to say something else when she crushed her lips against his. He became so distracted by her mouth that he didn't realize she flipped him over and was above him until she broke off the kiss.

"Yeah, and magically I end up getting the upper hand and climbing on top of you," she replied cockily. Justin kissed her and caressed her ass, which was covered by his comforter. He was about to dip his tongue into her mouth and deepen the kiss, when she pulled away.

"Ok, seriously, we need to do something about that breath," she giggled. She climbed off of him and watched him get out of the bed and slip into his boxers. 

"You know you might wanna follow me. Your breath doesn't exactly smell like heaven," he exclaimed. Kim laughed and gave him the finger before groaning and getting out of bed. She grabbed his white dress shirt off the floor and slipped into it. She followed him into his personal bathroom and grabbed a spare toothbrush. 

When they were done Justin grabbed her by her waist and led her back into his bedroom. She wiggled out of his hold and ran over to the bed. She hopped on it and turned to face him 

"Come here," she whispered seductively. The corner of his mouth curved until he was sporting a seductive grin. 

"What are you gonna do for me if I come over there?" He watched hypnotized as she took of his shirt, giving him a view of perfect body.

"Anything you want," she said in the same seductive tone. He pulled down his boxer shorts and walked over to her with sheer cockiness. He climbed onto the bed in front of her and let his eyes roam her body. She wrapped her arms around his neck and tilted her head up to look at him. 

"Anything I want, huh?" he repeated while lifting an eyebrow. "Well, what if I told you I wanted to touch you...here?" he asked, sliding his hands up her torso and cupping her breast. He smiled dangerously as she bit her lower lip. "Or here?" he asked, sliding his hands down to cup her round ass. "Or here?" he asked again. Justin moved one of his hands and slid it between her legs. One of his fingers began working magic on her already soaked slit. She lightly whimpered and rubbed his chest and shoulders. Damn, he still had scratch marks on him from when they were on that swing.

"And what would you do if I wanted to kiss you here?" she asked, running her fingers down the length of his body. She marveled at the feeling of his tight and toned abs. She continued her trip down his body until her hand rested on his semi-erect cock. 

"Then I'd call your bluff," he replied. He remembered when they had just learned about sex. They had been so excited, yet grossed out by the new info that they spent a whole afternoon talking about it. During the conversation, Kim had exclaimed that she'd never ever in her entire life give someone a blowjob and that was why he was trying to find out if she was serious or not. 

She smirked and pecked his cheek before whispering in his ear, "Get ready." 

Kim wrapped her fingers around his manhood and fisted him up and down slowly. The contact made his semi-erection become rock hard and full of life. She smiled and kissed down his chest, she lightly bit his nipple and listened in satisfaction when he groaned softly. She continued kissing and licking her way down his body until she reached her main goal.

She kissed the tip gently and felt him shiver from the contact. Her tongue darted out and touched his head. She felt him grab a fistful of her hair and she looked up at him.

"I've never done this before, so tell me if I do it right. Oh, and don't cum in my mouth," she said. He nodded his head and watched her through half hooded eyes. She licked him, pretending his dick was an ice cream cone. She swirled her tongue around his head before finally taking him into her mouth. She didn't think she would like this but the way he felt in her mouth was amazing. She sucked on him harder and slid her tongue up and down his massive cock. His grip tightened on her hair and he inhaled sharply. 

"Oh, fuck. That's really good, Kimmy. You're doing so good. Don't stop," he whispered. She would've smiled if her mouth wasn't so full. His words of encouragement made her feel like a pro and her nerves were settled. She lowered her head more until his cock reached the back of her throat and she had the sudden urge to gag. She pulled up quickly so the feeling would dissipate.

"Just take your time and relax," he instructed. Kim slowly went back down and reached the gagging point again. This time she did what he told her until the feeling went away. She slowly eased down a little more and a little more until she finally reached the base of his penis. She sucked harder and bobbed her head up and down slowly. Her head lifted all the way up to the mushroom shaped tipped before lowering back down. 

"Holy fuck," he whispered so softly he barely heard himself. Justin was in a whole new world. Kim wasn't the first girl to give him head, but for some reason it felt ten times better when she licked him, sucked him and teased him. He couldn't help but tighten his grip on her hair and bite his lower lip. He had a strong desire to growl out loudly, but he had to remind himself that his parents were home. From the way she did it, it was surprising that this was her first time ever doing something like this. She did it like she was a pro and he was proud to receive this pleasure that she was giving. She worked him for a little while longer and he could feel his balls starting to tighten. He was getting ready to explode.

He was so close, but he remembered what she told him. As much as he wanted to, he wasn't going to disobey her order. When he finally found his voice again he croaked out, "Kimmy, I'm about to cum." 

Kim licked him one more time before pulling her mouth away completely. 'Shit,' Justin thought. 'Where the hell am I supposed to cum?' He looked over at Kim and pushed her down slowly until she was lying on her back. He jerked his dick a few more times before his cum spurted on her stomach. She smiled as she watched spurt after spurt of the pearly white liquid land on her stomach. It contrasted perfectly against her skin. When he was done he looked up at her and frowned slightly.

"Sorry," he apologized. Kim sat up and kissed him long and deep. 

"Don't apologize. I could use a shower anyway," she stated when their lips parted. She hopped off the bed and walked over towards his bathroom. She stopped just before she reached the doorway and turned her naked body to look at him. "

I could use some company," she stated. Justin smiled and got off the bed, following her into the bathroom. He swatted her ass when she bent down to turn the shower on.

*********

John didn't want to see Mackenzie. He knew why she wanted him to come over her house and from the way she sounded on the phone, he had no choice but to show up. She called him pissed off and in her squeaky yet demanding voice told him to come over ASAP. He begrudgingly got out of bed, threw on some clothes, and drove over to her house. Just like she had something to say to him, he had something to say to her too. 

He knocked on the door unenthusiastically and waited for her to answer. She was in baby blue sweatpants and a small, sheer white tube top. She looked like she'd been crying all night. Oh, well, he didn't exactly feel sorry for her. She quickly pulled him inside the huge house and shut the door behind him. She led him into living room and turned to look at him.

"Ok first things first," she stated before hitting his forehead with her open palm. "You idiot! You fucking ruined everything," she cursed. He looked at her cautiously, trying to see if she would try to hit him again. "That plan was so simple and somehow you still managed to ruin it, but it's not too late. The plan could still work, but we'll just need to work a little harder and--" she stated before he covered her mouth with his hand.

"Are you crazy? Do you not hear how ridiculous you sound? You seriously need to find a hobby because you obviously have too much time on your hands," he stated before removing his hand. She stood there looking at him through narrowed eyes.

"I wouldn't have to spend so much time trying to plot this if you didn't fuck up all the time," she replied with her hands on her hips. John threw his hands up in the air and exhaled loudly. 

"Are you so dense that you don't realize what's right in front of your face? Justin doesn't like you and he never will. All these stupid ideas you've tried and you still can't grasp the concept that all this shit isn't tearing them apart. If anything it's only brought them closer together. This whole thing had been fucking pointless. I only helped you out because I wanted that money and now the money isn't even worth it. I can't do this anymore. I quit," he exclaimed, feeling as if he was at his wits end. 

"No, you're wrong. He loves me. I know it," she said through glossy eyes. 

"Then why is he with her?" he countered. He watched the tears fall down her face as she shook her head wildly. She was so in denial. 

"She seduced him. It's all her fault. He can't like her. He can't," she cried out. John grabbed her shoulders and shook her slightly, trying to shake some common sense into her head.

"Mackey, he does like her, ok. But, you want him to be happy right? Well, being with her makes him happy," he tried to reason. Mackenzie shrugged away from him and wiped at her tears.

"No. I want him to be happy, but he'll only be happy when he's with me. Whatever hold that bitch has on him won't last forever. We were made for each other and you're the only person who can help me. I need you to help me make him realize I'm the key to his true happiness and not HER." 

"No, I'm not helping you anymore. I told you, I quit," he replied.

"I'll pay you double what I'm already paying you," she tried to reason. 

'Wow this chick is fucking desperate,' John thought with repulsion. 

"No. I don't want your money, Mackenzie. I quit," He just didn't want to do this anymore. As crazy as it sounded he was actually starting to like Kim. She was unlike most of the girls he had met and she was an incredible person. He could see why Justin liked her so much. She was so beautiful, smart and had a personality to die for. He knew no good would come from this crush and that's why he decided to quit. He turned to walk away when he felt Mackenzie yank his arm back.

"Look Johnny Boy, you can't just leave me. We're a team and if you try to walk out on me I'll make sure you regret it." John narrowed his eyes and looked down at her face.

"Oh yeah?" he asked through gritted teeth. Mackenzie laughed and let his arm go.

"It's simple. I don't know why you continue to doubt my smartness. You gave Kim roofies the night of my party and you were about to video tape yourself having sex with her. Hmm, sounds very illegal to me. I could go to the cops, hand in that evidence and fuck up your life. Especially since I still have the tape," she said with an arrogant smile. John's eyes widened. What the fuck had he gotten himself into?

"You'd just end up fucking up your life too. You're the one who paid me to do it and you bought that stupid camera." Mackenzie stood there unaffected by his words.

"Oh please. Honey, are you forgetting I never touched that stupid camera. Your prints are all over it. My aunt is rich. I'd have the best lawyers and defense team money could buy. What would you end up with? Some drugged out attorney who you can't even afford?" she snickered loudly and clapped her hands together. "Darling, I love your sense of humor. Besides I won't even need a lawyer because it's my word against yours. Oh, and since my aunt is fucking the police commissioner—who's wrapped around my little pinky by the way—it'll be pretty easy for me to get out of it. You on the other hand will be constantly gang raped in your cell every night when you're in prison," she laughed evilly.

"You're so goddamn evil. You're pathetic, going through all this trouble for a guy who doesn't even like you. You won't get away with this shit you crazy, scandalous bitch," he replied coldly. Mackenzie rolled her eyes and faked a yawn. 

"Oh, I certainly will, dumb fuck. I mean that guy will be a pile of putty in my hands when I do the whole, 'I'm so sorry. He made me do it. He told me if I didn't help him he'd hurt me. I was so scared and I didn't know what to do. He's crazy. I never asked for this to happen,' bit. So you have two options: option A, you help me break them up and I'll pay you some more OR option B, you can walk out on me and I turn you in to police for attempted rape. " John flexed his fingers and told himself not to do something stupid. He was just itching to punch this bitch in her face. 

"Option A or B?" she asked with a smile. She had him right where she wanted him. He caught her off guard when he slammed her into a wall and wrapped his hand around her small throat. His body was pressed against hers so tightly that she couldn't move her arms. Mackenzie felt him squeezed tightly and she looked at him wildly.

"I bet if I fucking squeezed the shit out of your throat and killed you, I'd be doing the whole world a huge fucking favor. Now I know why your mom left you, you're fucking crazy. You came up with this whole scheme and you're gonna let me take the fall for you?!" He asked, squeezing harder. Her eyes were starting to become red. 

"I'm giving you a choice right now. Make the right one," she struggled to reply in a hoarse voice. She could feel her air supply running out and if he didn't let go soon, she'd pass out.

"Lucky for you I don't want be 'gang raped in prison' by sex starved convicts," he replied. He let go of her throat and stepped away from her. She gasped desperately for air and held onto her throat as she coughed loudly. She looked up at his blank expression.

"Is that your way of saying you choose option A?" she croaked out, while slowly regaining her stamina. John closed his eyes tightly and ran his fingers through his ink black hair.

"Yes. I choose option A," he replied quietly.

"I knew you were a smart boy," she stated while walking over to her couch. John just stared at her and breathed heavily as his heartbeat increased dramatically. What the hell did he get himself into?

*********

Kim laid on Justin's bed with a huge smile on her face after another round of mind-blowing sex. She was on her side with Justin's head resting in the crook of her neck. He kissed her neck every once in a while during their conversation. 

"So are you excited about graduation?" she asked, giggling as he licked and sucked at a particular spot. 

"Yes and no. Yes because we'll finally be done with high school and no because I'll have to leave for college and that means I'll have to leave you," he replied.

"Well, you don't leave for a couple more months," she stated.

"Still, time flies by really fast and my days with you are numbered."

"Just don't think about it," she replied, caressing his fingers that were entangled in her own.

"What are you going to do after we graduate?" he asked. She shrugged a little and exhaled sharply.

"Bag more groceries, I guess."

"Why don't you take some classes at the community college or something?" he suggested after kissing her neck.

"Unless I'm getting paid to go there, I don't think so. I mean, it would be great to go to college but I don't have time. My main priority is paying the rent. I know it sucks but there's nothing I can do about it."

"It's not fair. You've worked harder than most people do in their lifetime and you've never gotten what you deserve. It's just....not fair," he complained.

"Maybe not but, I'm used to the low expectations that come with being poor," she replied lamely. Justin kissed her neck again and she giggled softly. "Besides I just want to focus on us, right now, at this moment." He flipped her over so that she was laying flat on her back. He climbed on top of her and positioned himself between her legs.

"What if I helped you out? Like, gave you money to go," he asked. She shook her head.

"No, no, no. I would feel guilty if I borrowed money from your family," she replied. He was about to protest when she put her finger on his lip. He immediately closed his mouth. She kissed him on the lips and laid her head back down on the pillow. He leaned down to kiss her neck and listened to her sigh softly.

"Do you have any idea how much I love you?" he asked while nibbling on the fleshy lobe of her ear. 

"How much?" 

"More than words can explain," he replied. He lowered his kisses to her breast and felt her wrap her legs around his waist tightly.

"Then show me. Show me how much," she gently commanded. He didn't need to be told twice. He was about to worship her body and treat her like the goddess she was when they were interrupted. They didn't hear the door open, but the voice they heard was unmistakable. 

"Whoa, sorry," Steve apologized as he quickly shut the door. 'Oh shit,' Justin thought burying his face in the crook of Kim's neck and chuckling. 

"Umm your mom wanted to know if you wanted breakfast. You've been up here all morning and now I know why," Steve exclaimed on the other side of the door, whispering the last part.

"Umm, yeah, we'll be down in a minute," Justin replied, trying his hardest not to laugh. Kim covered her mouth with her hand hoping it would silence her giggling. When they heard his footsteps move away from the door they looked at each other and laughed. 

"Wow, I didn't expect that to happen," Kim said in between her laughter. Justin was cracking up and turning bright red in the process. 

"Did... you s-see his face... when he closed t-the door?" he managed to ask. He laughed harder and Kim joined in. She couldn't help but laugh harder whenever she looked at him. He had the cutest little face. 

"Stop laughing. You're making me laugh and it's giving me cramps," she said, grabbing hold of her stomach. 

"Ok, ok," he said trying to calm himself down. He finally managed to stop his laughing and got off of her. She got out of his bed and put on his shirt. 




Closer Ch. 04



"I have some gym shorts you can borrow," he said, pointing to the shorts lying carelessly on his computer desk. She walked to his desk and picked up the shorts, carefully holding them a safe distance away from her.

"Are these clean?" she asked examining the shorts. He looked at nodded. She squinted and inspected the shorts again, noticing small stains on it. Was that food? "Are you sure?" she asked, contradicting his statement. 

"Look in that drawer over there and I have more shorts. I'm positive that those are clean," he stated before slipping into a pair of jeans. Kim walked over and opened the drawer he pointed to.

"Thanks," she said as she grabbed a pair of his shorts. She put them on and tied the drawstring as tight as it would go, but still the shorts sagged below her waist. "Do I look descent?" she asked, looking in his direction.

"You look fine, Kimmy. Come on let's go," he replied as he grabbed her hand and led her outside of the bedroom. They walked downstairs and into the kitchen where his parents' eyes quickly glanced in their direction. 

"Well, well, look who finally decided to get out of bed," his mother joked. There were already two plates at the table set up for them. They took their seats across from his parents and ate in silence. They giggled every now and then, remembering the moment Steve walked in on them. 

His mother cleared her throat loudly. "So how was prom?" she asked, pretending to nit pick through the various foods on her plate. 

"It was really good. Really, really good," Justin replied, squeezing Kim's thigh under the table. She smiled and continued eating her food.

"Did you win prom king?" Steve asked.

"Umm yeah, but I didn't accept my crown. I was...distracted," Justin replied, raising his hand higher. Steve nodded his head knowingly at what 'distracted' Justin and looked at his wife. Helen was beaming from ear to ear, watching the couple interact with each other. Of course she couldn't see Justin's roaming hand under the table but she could see the way the two smiled and looked at each other.

"You two make a cute couple. I always knew you two would end up together. I remember when Justin came back from his first day in second grade. He just couldn't shut up about 'the nice girl with big brown eyes' who shared a cupcake with him. I knew from that very moment that you would capture my son's heart," Helen exclaimed. 

"I think you two make a great couple too, but you have some serious obstacles facing you. Pretty soon Justin is going to be moving to Illinois for college. How are you two going to deal with that?" Steve asked. Justin and Kim both looked at the adults across from them.

"Well, right now we just want to focus on us. We're gonna concentrate on all the long distance stuff later," Kim answered softly, placing her fork on the table. 

"You have to understand that distance can make or break a relationship," Helen exclaimed. Justin nodded his head and looked at Kim.

"Yeah, but I know our relationship can survive it," he replied, looking deep into Kim's eyes. Her beautiful brown eyes always seemed to make him feel hypnotized. He was in some sort of heavenly trance whenever he was around her. 

"Yeah, it can," Kim stated matter-of-factly. She looked down at the appetizing food that sat in front of her and picked up her fork. Just as she was about to bring the piece of hash brown to her mouth, Helen suddenly groaned and quickly got up from the table. She glanced over at the older woman as she ran down the hall towards the bathroom.

"Morning sickness," Steve exclaimed before he pushed his chair back and got up. He followed his wife to the bathroom and tried his best to make her feel better. 

"Can you take me home? I have to go to work today," Kim exclaimed with a mouthful of food. Justin smiled at the way her cheeks poofed out like a little chipmunk.

"Umm yeah. Of course, what time do you get off? I was thinking we could do something like go to the movies," he replied. 

"Six-fifteen. We can rent a few movies tonight. As long as you promise not to fall asleep in the middle of one," 

"I only fell asleep last time because it was Titanic. That movie is like a million hours long and the only reason you got it was to watch Leonardo DiCaprio. It was a total chick flick," Justin replied, stuffing some scrambled eggs into his mouth.

"Can you blame me? Half the women who saw that movie saw it for him. His face was carved by angels," she said with a smile. Justin scrunched up his face in disgust and jealousy. "And so was yours," she added. He quickly smiled and dug into his food.

"So, I'm thinking we could rent a movie that's just pure action. Something like Lethal Weapon, Kill Bill, or Die Hard," Justin suggested. 

Kim nodded her head and swallowed her food before saying, "Ok, we can watch Die Hard because I haven't seen it in a while, but seriously you have to end your obsession with Uma Thurman and that movie. You know every single line to that film. That's kinda sad when you think about it." Justin laughed and shrugged his shoulders.

"You have a thing for Leo and I have a thing for Uma. Sue me,"

"I'd never sue you, I love you too much," Kim replied. She finished the last of her food and got out of her chair. She carried the dishes over to the sink and placed them inside. "We should go. I have to be there soon and I really don't wanna hear my boss's voice if I'm late. You know that prick docked my pay last week because I was a minute late?" Kim said in disbelief. 

" What? How can you dock someone's pay because of a minute? That's like a nickel." Justin replied.

"Exactly, he's sooooo anal retentive," Kim said, rolling her big brown eyes. Justin pushed himself out of his chair and carried his plate and glass to the sink. 

"Wow, I can't believe he took a nickel out of your paycheck."

"Yeah, but I guess you always have at least one person you can't stand when you have a job. Which is something you've never had," Kim said.

"Hey, I had a job at White Castle," 

"For a week," she countered. Justin shrugged slightly and smiled.

"It was still a job. And I had to quit. That grease was giving me zits," he replied, rubbing his face.

"Eww," Kim laughed, "I just remembered when you had that huge one on your cheek and you kept wearing your mom's make-up."

"Don't remind me," Justin grumbled. Kim smiled and pinched his cheeks playfully. They stopped joking around when they heard his mom retching in the bathroom down the hall.

"Whew, that doesn't sound pretty. Come on let's go. I don't think I can hear anymore of that," Kim said, pulling him towards the stairs. She had to hurry up and get her shoes and her dress before they left the house. 

*********

Kim walked into the small grocery all smiles. Her unusually happy mood didn't go unnoticed by her co-workers, who eyed her suspiciously. She punched in and walked into the back-room to put her things away. Maria followed her and waited until the door was closed before she jumped up and down excitedly, clapping her hands together.

"Details, details. Come on spill it," she demanded excitedly in her thick Hispanic accent. Kim smiled and shrugged her shoulders before hanging up her jacket.

"I don't know what you're talking about," Kim replied, trying to play dumb. However, her constant smiling was giving her away.

Maria sucked her teeth loudly and stopped jumping. She placed her hand on her hip and arched one of her thin eyebrows. "Mmmhhhmmm, so what's with the smile?" she asked.

"What, I can't be happy," Kim replied innocently.

"Mommy, we both know who put that smile on your face and I want details. I saw Justin pull you out of prom and you both never came back. Spill it," Maria said with a knowing smile. 

Kim sighed happily. She walked over to the door and opened it to peek around. The walls in this place were so thin and she wanted to make sure no one else was in listening range. She closed the door and turned back around. She was tempted to start jumping up and down and squealing but she restrained herself.

"Ok," she said, barely containing her excitement. "We got into an argument that got way out of hand and that's why we weren't talking. So, on prom he dragged me out to explain why he acted the way he did. I was so mad that I didn't even wanna listen, and I slapped him. Then, when I was gonna storm out he said he loved me. And not in the friend way," she continued, trying her best to be calm even though her friend's growing smile was making it hard. 

"Oh my God. Oh my God," Maria said excitedly in her heavy accent. 

"Anyway, I told him that I love him too and we ended up..." Kim trailed. Maria squealed and jumped up and down, clapping. 

"Oh my God, you're so lucky. So he was your first?" Kim nodded but chewed on her bottom lip.

"Yeah, but that wasn't the first time we ever...you know," Kim replied. Maria's mouth gaped open and she looked at Kim in shock.

"And why didn't I know about the first time?" she asked, crossing her arms.

"Oops. I didn't really want to tell you because I knew you'd freak out and I didn't want that. I was confused 'cause I didn't know how to feel and it was weird."

"Well, I forgive you. Anyway, how was he? How big is he? Was there any foreplay?" Maria asked. Kim rolled her eyes. This was exactly why she didn't say anything the first time.

"Ok, I'll go in order. There are no words to describe how good he was, he's pretty big, and yes there was foreplay."

Maria squealed again and hugged Kim excitedly. She was about to say something when their boss walked into the room. The smile on the girls' faces quickly disappeared as they met his blank eyes.

"I didn't know my father was paying you two to play around in here. Get to work," he said, absolutely no emotion in his voice or on his face. Maria shot him a dirty look before walking out of the room with Kim closely behind her. She looked behind her to make sure that Tom, their boss wasn't behind them.

"I think Tom's a robot. He scares me," Maria whispered quietly. Kim nodded her head in agreement. They walked over to their check-out lanes and sat there waiting for customers. 

"Whatcha gonna do after work?" Maria asked after no people showed up at her lane. 

"Rent some movies with Justin," Kim replied just as an elder woman walked into her lane. 

"Ooh first official date huh?" Maria asked, watching Kim check out items. She took a gossip magazine off of the rack next to her and began flipping through the pages.

"I guess so. It's no big deal," Kim replied while punching various numbers into the cash register. 

"Cash or credit?" she asked the elder woman. 

"Cash," the woman replied. 

"That'll be $12.34," Kim replied softly.

The woman dug into her purse and Kim waited patiently as the woman counted her change. She handed Kim the exact amount of change and grabbed her bags. It was mostly cat food and fruit.

"Have a good day, ma'am," Kim stated. The woman flashed a genuine smile before walking out of the small store. Kim laughed softly when a customer walked into Maria's lane and she rudely told them she was on break, not once breaking her attention from the magazine. The person shook their head and rolled their eyes before walking into Kim's lane.

"Put that magazine down before Tom comes in here and throws a temper tantrum. You know he's always on the rag," Kim said while scanning and bagging items. Maria rolled her eyes and begrudgingly put the magazine away. 

"That dude seriously needs to get laid," Maria said while Kim actually did work. Kim giggled and bagged more groceries.

"Be careful. You know he has super hearing," Kim replied. "Cash or credit?" she asked the person in line.

"Cash," the person replied. 

"$72.50," Kim exclaimed. The person already had the money ready and gave her a hundred dollar bill. Kim opened the register and took out the change. "Ok, your change is $27.50. Have a good day."

"I don't know why we have to ask if it's cash or credit. What person in this neighborhood has a credit card? I'd like to meet 'em. They could spend some money on me," Maria exclaimed. Kim shrugged and waited for her next customer while Maria did nothing but talk. "Damn, I can't believe Rihanna took Chris back," Maria said in disbelief. 

"Maria, do you ever do work?" Kim asked with a smile. 

"When we actually have customers," Maria replied. Kim shook her head and yawned loudly. "Hmm, someone's tired." 

"Long night," Kim replied slyly. 

"How much do you wanna bet you're going to have an even longer one tonight," Maria joked. Kim smiled and thought about Justin while waiting for her next customer.

*********

Justin had literally been counting down the hours, no minutes, no, no seconds until Kim's shift was over. He even arrived thirty minutes early to make sure she'd be all his the moment she was done with her shift. She may have hated that job, but it was hard to tell by looking at the way she interacted and smiled at each customer.

She walked outside and over to his car. When she climbed inside she gave his cheek a quick peck and buckled her seatbelt.

"Hey stalker," she joked. She'd seen him pull up a few minutes before her shift ended. Every time she glanced in his direction he was always staring at her. His blue eyes and intense gaze making her wet every time she looked at him. By the time she got out to the car they were soaked, all because of him. 

"Hey beautiful," he replied, starting the car. The car ride to her apartment was spent with them talking about random things. Really they were just anticipating the moment they got to her place. 

"So what did you rent?" Kim asked when they arrived at her apartment. She quickly sat on her couch and watched as Justin set up the DVD player. She sat there and waited for him to put the disk in. He started the movie and took a seat next to her. She cuddled next to him as his arm came around her shoulders. He used the remote to fast forward through the previews and when the movie finally started Kim smiled.

"Pulp Fiction?" she asked, looking up at him.

"Your favorite, right?" he replied, the corners of his mouth forming a small smile.

"Hell yeah. Best movie known to man," Kim replied. She focused on the movie. Justin watched in awe as she said the lines of the movie every so often. And she had the nerve to call his obsession with Kill Bill sad? 

"I'm not infatuated with the movie. I just like it," Kim stated, reading his thoughts. Justin chuckled and shook his head.

"I don't believe you. You know all the lines to this movie and you even dressed up as Mia Wallace for Halloween."

"Oh, come on I was like ten when I did that. And you only rented this movie because I didn't wanna watch Kill Bill and this was the only other movie you like with Uma in it," she countered, laughing. 

"Nuh uh. It's just a coincidence," Justin replied innocently.

"It is far from a coincidence, Mr. Obsessed," Kim taunted. 

"You make it seem like I have posters of her in my room," Justin exclaimed.

"You did," Kim countered laughing.

"But I took it down," Justin pointed out.

"Yeah, after I gave her a mustache," she giggled. Justin chuckled and shook his head. They continued as the movie was getting to one of the best parts when Justin's phone rang and he answered.

"Yeah?" he asked the person on the other line. He chuckled a moment before agreeing to do something and hanging up.

"Who was that?" Kim asked, watching him get off the couch and grab his jacket.

"Steve. He's at work and my mom's craving pickles and ice cream. So, unless I want to be in serious trouble for denying her what she craves, I have to get the stuff. I can come back later if you want," he exclaimed. Kim got off the couch and walked with him to the door.

"Yeah, but don't keep me waiting," she stated, pulling him down for a small kiss. He smiled down at her and opened the door.

"If I can't make it back just think of all the things I can do to make it up to you," he said slyly. He leaned down to kiss her again before walking away. She closed the door and walked over to the couch to finish the movie. 

When the movie was over and Justin still wasn't back she decided to change clothes. She was in the process of changing when she heard a knock on the door. She grabbed her robe and covered her barely clothed body and went to answer it.

"Hey, finally you're back. I was starting to get impatient," she said, opening the door. She had expected Justin, but it wasn't him. It was John. His hands were shoved deep in his hoodie pockets and his head was lowered. She couldn't see his face, but there was no mistaking his body type.

"Oh, hi John," she said carefully. "About prom I'm so--" she started before he interrupted.

"It's ok. I really need to talk to you about something important," he said quietly. He finally looked up at her and she could see the worried look on his face. She could tell this was serious.

"Come in," she said, moving out of the way. He walked in and closed the door behind him. "Can you wait for a second?" she asked. He nodded and she walked into her bedroom to finish getting dressed. When she back into the small living room she was wearing a large t-shirt and some pink shorts.

"Ok, before I start I just want you to know that I'm so, so sorry," he started.

"Why are you apologizing to me? If anything I should be apologizing for ditching you at prom," Kim said.

"No, you don't understand. I fucked up really bad and I'll completely understand if you hate me," he said in a strained voice. What was going on? John was usually so upbeat and fun and now he looked like he was about to break out in tears.

"Why would I hate you John? What did you do?" she said carefully. John looked up at the ceiling and exhaled. 

"When we met at Mackenzie's party...it was planned. When we started hanging out it was planned," he explained. 

"What do you mean," Kim asked, gulping loudly. Was he some sort of stalker?

"Mackenzie...she...she's in love with Justin and she's convinced herself that he shares the same feelings. She's also convinced that the only thing standing in their way is you. The night of the party...she paid me to, shit," he said, trying to catch his breath. He inhaled and exhaled a couple of times before he felt he could continue. 

"She paid me to have sex with you," he rushed out. Kim's eyes widened and she backed away from him.

"W-what?!" she shouted hysterically. She knew Mackenzie was crazy, but this was a new low.

"The reason you can't remember that night is because she paid me to give you Rohypnol. It's a--"

"I know what it is," she cut him off. 

"She told me to take you to the guest room and video tape us having sex. She thought that if she sent the video to enough people and Justin saw it he wouldn't want to be friends with you anymore. I admit that it was a stupid idea, but I was only in it for the money and now... now I don't even want that. I'm sorry," John said sadly. Kim scoffed and crossed her arms.

"You were gonna fuck me in her guest room and you knew I wouldn't remember? I wonder what the police will say when they hear about this because that sounds like rape. Why are you even telling me this? You thought you'd just come here and apologize and you'd be in my good graces or something?" 

"I-I need your help," he replied. She looked at him and narrowed her eyes.

"Why would I help you?"

"I don't wanna do this anymore and Mackenzie's made it very clear that she'll turn me in if I quit. She has that tape of you high on those roofies and me about to sleep with you. She knows the police commissioner and he won't believe me if I say she was involved," John stated. 

"So what do you want me to do?" Kim asked in confusion.

"If you and I work together then maybe we can...I don't know. We can trick her into confessing or something," John replied, trying to reason with her. Kim sighed and analyzed the situation. If John did quit on Mackenzie then she would turn him into the police and have him arrested. No doubt he deserved it, but Mackenzie would get off scot free and that wouldn't be fair. Apparently, she came up with this dumb plan and she would have to deal with the consequences, not just John.




Closer Ch. 04



"Ok. Do you have a plan or do we have to start from scratch?" Kim asked. The sooner she got Mackenzie to stop trying to play games and come between them, the sooner she and Justin could spend the rest of their time together without any distractions. 

"No, I was hoping we could come up with one together," he replied, lowering the hood of his jacket.

"Ok, let's just think for a minute." Kim closed her eyes in deep thought and concentrated on what they should do. John paced around in Kim's small living room, chewing his fingernails and waiting for her to come up with something. 

"Alright, I'm only gonna say this once so you better be listening," Kim stated. John looked at her and gave her his undivided attention. She was the smartest girl he knew so any plan that she came up with was bound to work.

*********

Mackenzie was home alone, yet again and bored as hell. She was ten seconds away from making a booty call when her doorbell rang. She grumbled as she got off the couch and went to answer it. Without even asking who it was she swung open the door and was completely caught off guard. What was Kim doing at her house? She quickly got over her surprise and crossed her arms and formed the meanest look she could on her face.

"Eww, look what the cat dragged in. What do you want? If you want to be a maid here, you need to fill out an application like everyone else. Don't think I'm gonna give you special favors," Mackenzie stated.

"Wasn't it you who said we graduate next week? I came here to bury the hatchet and talk to you. Woman to woman," Kim replied calmly. 

"Bury the hatchet huh?" Mackenzie repeated skeptically. 

"Can I come in?" Kim asked, motioning towards the inside of the house. Mackenzie rolled her eyes and moved out of the way to let her in. 

"Can we hurry up and get this over with. I don't want my neighbors thinking I'm running a charity by letting poor girls come in my house," Mackenzie said in a nasty tone. 

"You know ever since day one of us knowing each other, you've been nothing but mean and cruel to me. At first I thought that maybe if I was nicer to you then you'd like me. However, that wasn't the case because no matter what I did you just acted bitichier and bitchier. I couldn't figure out why someone would be that mean to me for no reason until it dawned on me that there actually was a reason. And that reason is named Justin," Kim stated, coolly. Mackenzie narrowed her eyes at the girl and hoped she was intimidating her.

"What do you want me to say? That I envy you because the guy I like seems to waste time he could be spending on me with you. Then fine, I do envy that. But I don't just hate the fact that you're his best friend or that he talks about you non-stop. I hate the fact that he left me at prom for you. A poor little black bitch who's only real talent is laying on her back. Just like her mother," Mackenzie said with spite lacing every single word. Kim tried her best to look unaffected by her nasty words. This bitch was just asking to get beat down. But, she wasn't there for that and she had to remind herself to stick to the plan.

"And what's your talent? Lying, being bitchy or sleeping with too many people to count. No, no wait I got it, your talent is planning someone's rape and video taping it," Kim said sarcastically. Mackenzie's eyes widen considerably and she looked like a lost puppy. 

"How do you know about that?" she asked through clenched teeth. Oh yeah, Kim had her right where she wanted her. 

"Let's just say a little birdie told me," Kim replied. Mackenzie laughed bitterly. She should have known that asshole would crack and tell Kim.

"So let me guess, you came here to kick my ass," Mackenzie stated, placing a bony hand on her hip. 

"No, I came here for the truth. Hopefully, you'll be brave enough to tell me. Did you give me Rohypnol? Did you tell John to sleep with me when I was in that condition? Did you tell him to video tape it and send it to the whole school so Justin wouldn't like me anymore?" Kim asked, barely containing the anger in her voice.

"Yeah, I did. I told him to do all those things to show everyone what a filthy whore you are. Don't lie, you loved every second of it," Mackenzie said.

"So you planned my rape and you don't even care. When you're in prison, I hope you get to experience feeling weak and helpless every single night when your cell mate makes you her bitch," Kim spat out. Mackenzie didn't even flinch at her words.

"I'm not going to jail. All the evidence points to John so he'll be the one to take the fall, not me," Mackenzie replied. "You don't have anything linking me what happened. I was just having a party that got out of hand and some lowlife slipped you a roofie, took you upstairs, yadda, yadda, yadda. And this all happened while I was downstairs entertaining my party guest. Sorry babe, but if you try to get me in trouble, the only one who'll face consequences is Johnny Boy," she continued.

"I don't think so," Kim replied. Just then John walked into the living room with a serious expression on his face. "Did you get all of that?" Kim asked. John showed them a tape recorder and pressed the rewind button. When he pressed play the conversation between the two girls began playing.

"How did you get in my house?" Mackenzie asked hysterically. 

"Didn't anyone ever tell you to lock all your doors," John replied, a small smile forming on one side of his mouth. Mackenzie looked back and forth between the two people. 

"I still have the tape--" she tried to threaten. 

"No, actually I do," John replied, holding up the small tape he'd given her a few weeks ago. She virtually deflated and pulled madly at her hair.

"Shit!" she cursed loudly.

"So now you have a choice babe. You can leave me, John, and of course Justin alone, or risk me taking this straight to the cops and I don't think your aunt's little boyfriend can help you out this time," Kim said, crossing her arms. 

"Fine, I'll leave all of you alone," Mackenzie said quietly. She looked up at Kim with hate radiating through her eyes. "I still hate you," she said, gritting her teeth. 

"As long as you stay the fuck away from me, I could care less," Kim replied. "Come on John, let's go," she said. If she stayed, she knew she would have a Flavor of Love moment when Pumkin spit in New York's face, and go crazy. But Mackenzie wasn't worth her time. She was just the scum on the bottom of her shoes.

John quietly followed her out of the house and closed it behind him. Mackenzie stood there in her living room, motionless. She couldn't believe she had to agree to stay away from Justin. This was the man she planned on having kids with someday and now everything was ruined. All because of that bitch! She felt like she was going to be ill.

*********

"My fellow classmates if I must say so myself, it feels pretty damn good to finally be graduating," the valedictorian joked, resulting in some giggles from the audience. "It seemed like it was just yesterday when we first entered these great walls here at school, but now it's time for us to move onto the next stepping stone of life."

Kim was listening intently to the speech being made. She clutched her diploma proudly. She graduated high school and was one of the only women in her family to do so. Most had dropped out due to pregnancy or pure laziness, but not her. She worked pretty darn hard for this certificate and she was proud. She found herself glancing around at the people periodically. She was hoping her mother would come, but she knew that she most likely wasn't. However, Mrs. Marshall was there. She sat in the back with the rest of the families smiling wide with a handkerchief clutched in one hand. She spotted Kim looking at her and immediately waved like an excited child. Kim smiled and waved back. She loved that woman to death. She was the grandmother she'd never had.

"So, as we make this powerful and immense journey into the real world I ask you to always remember the wise words of Eleanor Roosevelt: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." The speaker concluded. His speech received a standing ovation and some whistles from the large crowd. 

"Bravo, bravo. That is the type of speech that motivates me into working my best every single day," Principal Corgan announced, standing at the podium and clapping excitedly. "It is my distinct pleasure to introduce to you the 2009 graduating class of Keegan High School," he continued. The graduating class stood and threw their caps in the hair, cheering loudly and chanting the school fight song. Some couples kissed as parents and guardians threw confetti in the air. It was amazing. 

"Hey baby," Justin stated behind her. She turned quickly and jumped into his arms. She hugged him tightly and felt him lock his arms around her waist. He kissed the top of her head as many times as he could before she pulled away from him.

"Congratulations," she stated excitedly. 

"Ditto," he replied before leaning down to capture her lips. She kissed him softly and ran her fingers through his hair before she saw a blue light flashing. 

"Smile for the camera," Justin's mom commanded in a very giddy voice. She danced around for a moment before showing them their picture on the digital camera. "I can't believe you two are graduating. Damn, I still remember the days when Justin used to sleep with his teddy bear and run around the house naked," his mom exclaimed.

"Mom," Justin complained as his face flushed with embarrassment. Kim giggled softly and hugged the woman. 

"Where's my hug?" another voice asked from behind. Kim turned to see Mrs. Marshall standing there with her arms extended, waiting for her turn to congratulate Kim. Kim walked into her open arms and felt the woman bear hug her while rubbing her back.

"Thanks for coming," Kim stated while still engulfed in the woman's big arms.

"I wouldn't have missed it for anything in the world. Watching you walk across that stage was one of the best moments of my life. I only wish your momma was here," the woman exclaimed. 

"Me too," Kim replied softly. The woman finally unwrapped the young girl from her arms and looked at her gown, smiling. 

"Do you got any plans? I was thinking I could take you out to eat," Mrs. Marshall asked.

Before Kim got a chance to answer, Justin jumped in, "Umm, actually I need to speak with her, if you don't mind." Mrs. Marshall nodded in understanding. She looked at Kim and held her at arms length.

"I'm goin' to make you a big graduation cake and have it ready for you by the time you get back. Betty Crocker won't have nothing on me," Mrs. Marshall stated smugly. Kim laughed heartedly at the old woman. She wished she'd known her grandmother. She'd heard stories about her grandmother, but that didn't satisfy her. She wanted to get to know her on a personal level. Was she as sweet and kindhearted as Mrs. Marshall? Or, was she an uninvolved grandparent just waiting for death to come collect her soul?

"You don't have to do that Mrs., umm, Anita," Kim exclaimed.

"No, I insist. You two go ahead and take some more pictures and I'm gonna head on home and bake that cake," Anita urged. She hugged everyone before walking away.

"Ok mom you better take as many pictures as you can," Justin stated with his charming smile. His mother rolled her eyes and held up the camera. 

"Strike a pose," she instructed. Justin and Kim got into their positions and waited for her to snap the picture of them. "Ok...now Justin take a picture of me and Kim," she continued. The picture taking continued for about five more minutes before Justin pulled Kim away.

"So, what do you have to show me?" she asked as they made their way through the parking lot. She pulled off her graduation gown and cap and set them in the back seat of his car.

"You'll see," he replied simply. She hated when he was secretive, but she was excited to see what he had in store for her. The car ride wasn't that long, in fact, they were at his house in less than fifteen minutes. He pulled into the driveway and hopped out of the car in order to open her door for her.

"This is the surprise?" she asked in confusion. He slammed the door close and covered her eyes with his hands. Her hand automatically came up to make sure she wouldn't bump into anything as he led her somewhere.

"Don't worry, you're not gonna hit anything. Come on, I'm your guide," he chuckled. They continued walking until he came to an abrupt stop. She knew they were still outside because she could still smell the fresh air outside. What was he doing? 

"Tada," he exclaimed excitedly. 

He finally removed his hand and let her take a look at his surprise. Holy shit! Their tree house?! She remembered when they spent all summer helping Justin's dad build it. Then when the masterpiece was finished they felt like they were the luckiest kids on earth. It was located deep into his backyard and was obscured by the tall trees. 

They played there non-stop and even went up there to cry with each other when Justin's real father past away. However, as time went on, the huge treehouse began falling apart until finally a small California earthquake knocked down half of it. They never went back there again and she had to admit, she was starting to forget about it. But, now here it stood. In all its glory, their favorite hangout spot when they were kids, and it looked totally upgraded and safe again. The blue and orange paint they used now looked fresh and the latter was no longer missing steps. She fell in love with the treehouse all over again.

"Whoa," was the only word that she could say. She felt like she was having a Neo moment in the Matrix. This was just so amazing. Most girls probably wouldn't have appreciated something like this, but she did. This treehouse held significant meaning in her life and the fact that he rebuilt it made her feel very special. 

"Do you like it?" he asked. She turned to look at him with her mouth wide open.

"I- I love it. When did you--?" she started.

"I've been working on it for a couple of weeks. It wasn't that difficult. Steve helped me too," he replied with a smile. Kim clung to his arms and jumped up and down in excitement. 

"I can't believe you did this," she said trying not to squeal. 

"Well, do you want to go inside, or do you want to observe the outside of it all day?" he asked. Kim giggled and led him up to the latter of the tall treehouse. He watched her butt as she climbed the rungs of the latter until she reached the entrance of the little room. He followed suite and climbed inside their clubhouse. 

"Oh my god," Kim gasped. She crawled over to one of the corners and marveled at her old things that still remained in the room. She picked up at least a dozen Superman and X-Men comic books and laughed. "We were so geeky," she laughed softly. 

"I know right. We used to buy these comics like every Saturday and come up here to read them. We'd always lose track of time, and my mom would come up and say it was time for lunch."

"Yeah and she'd fix us peanut butter and banana sandwiches, back in the good ole' days. There's so much stuff still in here. I thought most of it got ruined when part of it fell down," Kim laughed. She continued roaming through the various objects that were scattered and, reeling past memories and moments until she came across an unfamiliar box. She picked it up and examined closely. It was a black and velvet with a small white bow at the top. Her eyes slowly lifted from the box and peered into his soothing blue eyes.

"Open it," he whispered when her questioning eyes met his. She automatically flipped open the top of the box and her jaw dropped. It was a beautiful heart shaped necklace with their initials in the middle.

"Oh...my," she said softly. Kim took the necklace out of its box and looked back and forth between Justin and the gift. "You shouldn't have..." she started. How much did this thing cost?

"Yeah, but I wanted to," he replied. He took the necklace out of her hand and undid the clasp that held it together. She lifted her hair and used her hand to create a makeshift ponytail. He wrapped the necklace around her neck and clasped it together. She let her hair fall down her shoulder and she straightened the necklace. She looked down at the silver piece of jewelry before looking at the person responsible for the gift.

"It's so beautiful. Thank you, baby," she said with a smile. He brought the little heart pendant in between his fingers and looked down at it.

"I got this for two reasons: one, because when I saw it in the store, I knew that it belonged around that pretty little neck of yours; and two, I want you to know that when I go to Chicago, part of me will still be here with you. Always," he stated. He shook his head and smiled slightly. "That was really corny, wasn't it?" he groaned out, slapping his forehead.

Kim giggled a little and kissed his lips. She pulled away and said, "No, it wasn't." She pulled him near her body and claimed his lips again.

He took over the kiss and used his hands to bring her head closer. He groaned with need when her tongue made the first stroke against his. He loved this girl. Everything about this girl was so unique and different and he loved it. He loved her. 

"I guess this is a new memory we can share about this treehouse," she said with a smile. She began undoing the buttons on his dress shirt and fumbled with them for a second before he waved away her hand. He gripped the sides of the shirt and ripped it off, sending buttons flying everywhere. She giggled softly as she heard the small buttons bouncing on the floor all around them. 

"Somehow your anxiousness never ceases to amaze me," she joked. He smiled and unbuckled his pants while watching her undress before him. He chuckled as she revealed her pink bra and panties to him, causing her to look at her body self conscientiously. 

"What?" she asked obviously confused.

"Nothing. It's just.... I never would have taken you as a girl who wears pink," he laughed. She rolled her eyes while trying her hardest not to smile. She leaned over to kiss him again and he pulled her into his lap so that she was straddling him. He stared deep into her eyes. His soothing blue eyes sent a wave of exhilaration throughout her body. She was already in her underwear, but she felt completely naked when he looked at her like this. His gaze was so powerful and intense, yet loving and genuine at the same time. 

Kim nipped at his lower lip as his fingers caressed the skin on her neck. His fingers traveled from her neck to her chest to her stomach, sending excitement coursing through her. His fingers continued their journey until he stopped at the juncture between her smooth chocolate thighs. She kissed him with so much need and lust that she was even starting to surprise herself. She could feel him playfully running his fingers along her body.

Her hot, wet pussy quickly let him know she wanted him and he wanted her too. He let his fingers slip inside the thin piece of cloth and stroked her slit slowly, teasing the hell out of her. She moaned softly and bucked her hips for a moment. She loved when he touched her, teased her, and set her body ablaze. Right now she really needed to be close to him to feel him inside of her.

"Justin--," she began slowly, her voice becoming husky. Her sentence was cut off short when she felt him use one of his fingers to penetrate her. He wiggled his fingers inside of her body expertly and used another to rub her swollen clit. God, he was going to kill her. She couldn't help the groans that escaped her lips. If he made her this crazy with his fingers then she was so ready for his....other parts.

"Justin, I want you so bad," she whimpered. He kissed her lips, and stroked in and out harder.




Closer Ch. 05



Kim stood with her arms crossed and her head bowed. Every so often she looked up at Justin, who looked just as uncomfortable. They answered more questions from the fire department and a pudgy police officer. They waited impatiently while one man took notes. Kim felt her irritation rise when the firefighter asked her the same question for the umpteenth time.

"Ok, for the fiftieth-fucking time, I told you: I got to her apartment and my boyfriend and I smelled smoke. We went inside and found her passed out in the living room with a burning cake in the oven," she replied, pissed off. How many times did she have to tell them that!

"Ma'am we're going to need you to calm down. We know you're upset and we sympathize with you, we really do, but you need to settle down. There is no reason for you to get mad, or curse," the firefighter stated. 

Kim rolled her eyes and stomped her foot in a small rhythm. Someone she cared about was in trouble and they had her in here answering stupid questions. Questions she already gave answers to half an hour ago.

"Are you sure it was a cake. How do you know drugs weren't involved?"the officer asked, chewing and smacking his piece of gum loudly. Kim sucked her teeth loudly and felt Justin place his hand on her back. She shrugged him off and stared at the emotionless officer. He knew he was only trying to make her feel better, but she didn't want to be touched.

"Despite your belief that we're all drug addicts, there are some good people in that building. And, she's seventy-four years old for the love of god. She doesn't do or make drugs. She was trying to bake me a fucking cake for my graduation and she passed out. If you don't believe me then go check. It's still on the stove," Kim huffed out, trying not to flip out.

"Ma'am. This is a hospital; you need to keep it down. Just take a deep breath, calm down, and try not to answer using the 'f' bomb," the officer instructed. Kim exhaled loudly. Was he serious? 

"I am trying to keep calm, but you two are making it extremely difficult to not say 'fuck' all the time. Didn't I just answer these questions? Why the hell am I even answering them again?" she asked, looking at the two people interrogating her. She tried to calm down while Justin brought his arm back to her shoulder. She didn't fight him this time. 

"Ok, can we finish this another time? Obviously, my girl needs a break from all the Q and A," Justin chimed in for the first time. The two men in uniforms looked at each other, then at Kim, who was looking like she'd explode, and then at Justin.

"Fine, but this isn't over," the officer stated, handing her a card. "Call this number here later," he added. 

"I'll get right on it," Kim spat out sarcastically.

"And, might I advise you to take some anger management classes," the firefighter added.

Kim watched as the two men left and turned around to sit in one of the empty waiting room chairs. 

"Fine, but this isn't over," Kim mocked, taking a seat. "Fucking prick," she said, rolling her brown eyes. 

Justin sat next to her and grabbed hold of her hand. They sat there in painful silence. The only noises in the room were the annoying tick of the clock on the wall, and the clanking of toys being dropped by small children. 

Kim felt other eyes in the waiting room staring at her. She figured most of the people in the room heard the little interrogation that took place. She saw an older woman, maybe a little younger than Anita, look at her disapprovingly. Kim guessed it was because of her constant use of the 'f' word a few moments ago. It didn't matter though. That woman wasn't important to her, Mrs. Marshall was. 

Kim watched as each person or group was called out by a nurse or doctor. As the many children left the room, Kim felt more and more anxious. People who had arrived before her were being called before her. She wasn't much of a believer in a higher power, but right now she was pleading and praying for Anita to be okay.

Kim fell asleep on Justin's shoulder and in that uncomfortable hospital chair. She had no idea how long she'd been at the hospital until she heard someone clear their throat loudly. She looked up to see a young nurse looking at her and Justin. Kim shook off the sleep that still had a hold of her and looked back at the woman. She gently nudged Justin until he too stirred from sleep.

"Umm, are you two the young people who brought that elderly woman in?" the woman asked. The woman was short with shoulder length red hair and thin lips. Her eyes were a deep green color and her face was framed by thick glasses. 

"Yes," Kim replied, immediately rising out of her chair. Justin also got up and she took his hand in hers.

"Are you family?" the female asked, motioning towards Kim with her index finger.

"Yeah. Is she alright?"

"Well, I'm nurse Stone. I think you should know that she's conscious. She was somewhat confused when she regained consciousness, but she's better now. It looks like this was just a mishap with her diabetes," Nurse Stone exclaimed in a calm voice that sounded a bit rehearsed. Kim blew an audible breath of relief.

"Can I see her?" Kim asked, taking her bottom lip into her mouth.

"Unfortunately, visiting hours are up in about two minutes. You both can come back tomorrow if you want," the nurse replied, tucking some of her hair behind her ear.

Kim quickly glanced at the clock on the wall astonished. "It's ten already?" she asked incredulously. 

"I'm afraid so, but you will be able to see her Saturday. Visiting hours start at eight." 

"Umm, ok. Can you tell her I was here?" Kim asked, grabbing her jacket and slipping it on. She really didn't want to leave without seeing Anita, but she had to.

"It'll be the first thing I do when I go to check on her," Nurse Stone exclaimed. Justin and Kim politely said goodbye before leaving the hospital.

They got into Justin's car and sat there for a moment in silence. 

"Do you want to come over to my house?" Justin asked, breaking the awkward silence. Kim looked at him and tried her best to smile.

"What about your parents?" Kim asked.

"They won't care. Besides, it wouldn't be the first time you spent the night. So yay or nay?"

"Yeah, I don't want to be by myself," she replied. He nodded his head and started the car. 

When they got to his house, his parents were in the living room watching some stupid comedy movie. Justin led Kim, who was fighting off sleep, to his room. 

"I'm going to take a shower really quick," Kim exclaimed, already stripping off her clothes. Justin watched her and immediately his thoughts turned lustful. He watched her beautiful hips move side to side as she walked towards his bathroom. 

He took off his own clothes as he heard the shower water running. When he was down to his boxers, her climbed in bed and got under the covers. A few minutes later, he heard the water cut off and Kim emerged from the bathroom. She was wearing his bathrobe and she looked like the sexiest thing on earth to him. She went to his dresser and took out one of his shorts and one of his shirts.

"I'm gonna call Maria tomorrow. I can try to trade shifts with her," Kim exclaimed, slipping beside him on the bed. His arms automatically draped over her body. He felt Kim place small kisses on his chest and shoulder. 

"At least she's conscious now," Justin stated, rubbing the small of her back. He looked down at her.

"I know. Thank God. I think that was one of the scariest moments of my life. Finding her on the floor like that," she said. "And it made me realize that life changes in the blink of an eye. Life is too damn short," she added quietly.

Justin held her tightly against his hard frame and buried his face in her beautiful neck. He kissed her there until she whimpered lightly.

"You mean the world to me," he whispered, leading his kisses up to her mouth. Justin nipped her soft lips before he felt her pull away. He could feel her looking at him even though the room was pitch black.

"What's wr--," he started.

"I think I should start taking birth control," she told him. 

"It's smarter, you know? We don't need any scares when you're leaving soon," she added. Before he could say anything else, he felt her mouth cover his again.

"I love you, Kimberly," Justin murmured against her warm mouth.

"Not as much as I love you. Now go to sleep," she whispered back. 

*********

Kim sat in the hospital room that Saturday morning watching the small rise and fall of Mrs. Marshall's chest. Anita was asleep and her harsh, labored breathing, along with the groans of the other patient, filled the room. Kim gently stroked Anita's hair and listened to the constant beep of the machine next to her. It was annoying as hell, but it was a good thing it kept beeping.

Kim's thoughts were interrupted when she heard a light knock on the door. She instinctively looked at the door when she saw the person wearing the white coat.

"Oh, hi, I'm Eliza Jenner. I'm her doctor. Are you a family member?" the woman asked, holding a clipboard to her chest.

"Yeah. I'm her, uh, granddaughter. My name is Kim." The woman nodded and checked various things on Anita's body.

"It's a good thing I'm meeting someone from the family. I just hate it when people have to go through difficult situations by themselves," Doctor Jenner exclaimed.

"She means a lot to me. She'll never have to go through anything alone when I'm around."

Doctor Jenner smiled, "I wish more young people shared your attitude young lady."

"When do you think she can be released? I mean last night the nurse told me she'd be okay. It was just a complication with her diabetes, right?" Kim asked after noticing the doctor was finished.

"She didn't tell you?" Doctor Jenner replied in a low voice.

"Tell me what?" Kim asked clearly confused.

"I think it's better if you follow me into the private room," the woman replied.

Kim looked down at Anita once more before she got out of her chair. Doctor Jenner opened the room door and waited for Kim to walk out. Kim hurried out and the doctor closed the door behind them. Kim walked in silence as the doctor began leading her down the hall. The walk felt like it took eternity. The woman halted and motioned toward a small oak door with the words 'Private use' in silver italic letters. 

"Here it is," Doctor Jenner exclaimed, twisting the knob. She let Kim walk in first and followed behind closely. Inside was a long table with uncomfortable looking leather chairs that sort of reminded Kim of The Apprentice. 

Kim took a seat and waited until the doctor sat in the chair across from her. Doctor Jenner cleared her throat loudly and clasped her hands together. It was similar to how grade school teachers instructed students to do it while they were speaking.

"Have you noticed different things in your grandmother's behavior? Like, is she complaining of severe neck, back, or chest pain?"

"No, not really. I mean, she has a lot of back pain, but I figured it was normal since she was in an accident about a year ago," Kim replied. She watched as Doctor Jenner wrote down some notes in her chart.

"Has she had a loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss?" Doctor Jenner asked, getting ready to write down her answer.

"I don't know about her appetite, but I haven't noticed any weight loss." Again, the doctor scribbled in the silver chart.

"Ok, what about intense coughing, or shortness of breath?" Kim swallowed loudly and tucked some of her raven black hair behind her ear. 

She'd notice when Mrs. Marshall wheezed loudly as she made her way up the stairs in the apartment building. She'd notice the small cough that grew louder, and louder as time went on. It got so bad that Kim could hear it at night when she was getting ready for bed. It often worried her, but she hadn't paid it much attention and now she felt guilty about it.

"What's this about?" Kim asked quietly. She gripped her hands underneath the table and waited. Waited for the moment this doctor would tell her something she didn't want to hear. She was waiting for her to drop the bomb. 

Doctor Jenner exhaled and dropped her pen. The one thing she hated about being a doctor was breaking bad news to families. This girl who sat across from her looked so young, but the life seemed to look drained from her body. This girl, Kim, looked anxiously as she was preparing for her to speak.

"I believe that your grandmother has lung cancer, and we need to run some tests to be sure what type of lung cancer she has. I'm so sorry."

Kim's eyes widened and her hand immediately came up to her chest. Lung cancer? No, no, no. 

"I'm so sorry," Doctor Jenner whispered again. She reached over the table to grab Kim's hand. "We told Anita last night and I thought she told you," the doctor continued.

"If she does have lung cancer, what do we do?" Kim asked, gulping audibly. 

"Well, it's important that we start treatment right away. Like, radiation, chemotherapy etcetera."

"I can't believe this is happening," Kim said, pulling at her hair.

"The best thing you can do is hope and pray that I'm wrong. You have to remember to be strong for your grandmother's sake," Doctor Jenner coached. 

Kim nodded and wiped at her tears with the sleeves of her jacket until the doctor offered her some tissue. 

"I'll give you a minute and when you're ready, you can come back into your grandma's room," Doctor Jenner exclaimed before getting up and leaving the large room. Kim sat there and bawled until she felt she couldn't produce any more tears. She sniffled for a moment before wiping away the last of her tears.

"You have to be strong, Kimberly. Be strong for her," she told herself over and over. She repeated the same phrase over and over for about ten more times before she finally got out of her seat. She left the private room and walked to Anita's room.

Kim pushed open the door and was somewhat happier when she saw Anita awake and flipping through the TV channels. She glanced over at Kim and a smile etched across her face, making her wrinkles pop out more. She held out her hand and motioned for the girl to come closer.

"Kim," Anita whispered, swallowing hard. Kim walked over to her friend and grabbed her hand.

"Hey you," Kim replied quietly. She sat down next to Anita and leaned against one of the bed railings. 

"I'm so sorry I ruined the cake." Anita exclaimed in a hoarse voice. Kim smiled and clutched harder at the older woman's hand.

"I don't care about the cake. You're more important," she replied. 

"I still feel bad about it. I didn't burn down the building right?" Anita asked, stifling a cough with her hand. Kim reached over and grabbed a cup of water that sat on a tray next to them. She handed it to Mrs. Marshall and watched as the women took huge sips through the straw. 

"No, there wasn't even a real fire," Kim laughed softly, accepting the cup when the woman was finished. Anita sighed and settled her head against the hard hospital pillows.

"Good. I'm happy everyone's okay," she replied softly.

Kim sighed and looked at the woman sadly, "The doctor just told me that you might have lung cancer."

"I would've slept much better knowing you didn't know," Anita whispered painfully, shaking her head slowly against the pillows. "I don't want you feeling sad about it."

"I'm only sad because you're so important to me and I wish there was something I could do," Kim replied, looking deeply into the woman's weak eyes.

"When I was a younger, I had leukemia and now I might have lung cancer," Anita stated with a large frown.

"You had leukemia?" Kim asked.

"When I was twelve. My mom couldn't pay for treatment, so she called my father and his family. He made a deal with my mom that if he paid for my medical bills, he wouldn't have to deal with us anymore. I really thought I would die in that cold hospital room, but somehow, I made it," Anita said gravelly. 

"You beat leukemia, you're gonna beat lung cancer," Kim said.

"I don't know if I can, but I've lived a full life and I can accept if it's time for me to be with my family," Anita whispered.

"Don't talk like that. You're gonna be okay," Kim cried out sadly, feeling the sting behind her eyes growing.

"Don't cry, don't cry. I'm just saying that if I do have lung cancer and I can't pay for treatment, I can deal with that. Don't cry for me. I want you to celebrate my life and my happier moments. Deal?" Anita asked, rubbing Kim's cheek with the back of her hand.

"Deal," Kim said after a small sniffle.

"And, remember our deal, when I go, you have to take care of my cat."

Kim laughed softly, "I remember and I'll take care of Monty to the best of my ability."

"I know you will," Anita replied with a smile. "So, where's that handsome man of yours?" Anita asked. Kim's smile grew exponentially.

"Way to change to conversation," Kim laughed softly.

"Well, it was getting kind of intense. I want to talk about something happy. So how is he?"

"He's fine. He couldn't make it today, so he wanted me to tell you 'hi' for him," Kim replied. 

"He's quite a guy and I still want to figure out a way to say thank you to both of you."

"Don't thank me. Justin was the one who got you out," Kim replied with a shrug.

Anita smiled and shook her head, "You both saved me."

"How'd you sleep?" Kim asked, turning the channels the small TV in the room. 

"Besides this mattress being harder than stone, I slept fine," Mrs. Marshall replied, scratching her arm and swatting at the tubes.

"Don't mess with those IVs," Kim scolded the older woman.

"Okay, you sound like my mom," Anita joked. 

"Did you dream about anything?" Kim asked while flipping through the channels. Finally stopping when she found some Good Times re-runs.

"My husband, Benny," Mrs. Marshall replied with a small, sad smile. "It was a dream about our wedding day."

"What happened during your wedding?" Kim asked, showing the woman her undivided attention. Anita laughed for a moment, reminiscing about the day. 

"Well, we got married at a small church and we invited maybe a hundred and fifty people. That day, the reverend showed up drunk," Anita laughed. Kim joined in, imagining what happened.

"He slurred through the whole ceremony and occasionally cracked some stupid jokes. It was amusing. After Ben and I said our vows, it was time to exchange rings. Benny's best man lost the ring and had to run out to his car to find it. Then, in the reception one of my little cousins knocked down the cake. It was one of the best days of my life," she continued. Kim laughed at everything Mrs. Marshall claimed happened. 

"Wow. That must've been some wedding," Kim stated. Anita nodded her head against vigorously as she laughed loudly.

Kim and Anita continued to chit chat about everything until Kim's phone ran loudly. She was going to ignore it until she realized it was Justin.

"Hello?" she asked.

"Hey, are you ready. I'm outside the hospital right now," he exclaimed on the other end of the phone.

"Really?" she asked surprised.

"Yeah, I need to talk to you about something," he replied. Kim looked at Anita who was occupied with watching TV.

"Would you mind if I left right now? Justin is waiting for me."

Anita shook her head with a smile, "No, you've been here all morning. Enjoy you're afternoon." 

"Okay, I'll see you later," Kim replied. She leaned down and kissed Anita's forehead.

"When you come back, do you think you can bring me some food? The food in this hospital is terrible," Anita exclaimed, making a face. 

"It can't be that bad," Kim laughed, grabbing her small purse.

Anita shot her a look that completely contradicted that statement, "You'd be surprised what simple foods these people can mess up."

Kim laughed one more time. She couldn't help it. At the moment, Mrs. Marshall reminded her of a small child refusing to eat their broccoli for dinner.




Closer Ch. 05



"Kim please, I really want something from that small take out place downtown," Anita whined.

"Fine, I'll pick you up some take-out. I can never say no to you," Kim replied before walking out the door. 

Kim walked into the hospital parking lot and instantly saw Justin's car. When she got in, he kissed her deeply, leaving her breathless.

"So, what do you need to talk to me about?" Kim asked when their lips parted. Her lips scraped against his with every word, causing both of their lips to tingle. 

Justin just smiled before reluctantly sitting up in his car seat. He began driving off without any explanation whatsoever. Kim continued to try and pry information out of him during the car ride, but he remained mysterious about everything.

After a half hour of anticipation the car finally stopped. She looked at him, clearly confused. They were in the middle of an empty parking lot behind an abandoned store. Justin laughed loudly after seeing her puzzled expression. 

"Okay, well as we both know, I'm leaving for school soon. And it crossed my mind that when I leave you won't really have a ride to work or anywhere else and I don't like you taking the bus," Justin exclaimed trying to see if she knew where he was going.

"And?" Kim asked, motioning him to keep going with her hand.

"And, now would be a good time for a driving lesson. That way, when I move you can have my car," he continued. He watched her jaw drop and couldn't help but chuckle. 

Kim looked absolutely mortified. When she was younger all she wanted to do was drive, but as time went on and she learned the dangers of driving her mind changed. She didn't know if she trusted herself behind the wheel, especially a beautiful car like this one.

"I was nervous my first time driving too. My mom took me to this exact same spot to teach me and now I'm teaching you. Besides, this place is pretty big, not to mention empty, so there's no risk of you getting into an accident," he said after noticing her expression.

"N-n-no," Kim stammered. 

"Kim, come on. You can do this. Just one little lesson and if you don't feel comfortable then we won't do anymore," Justin negotiated. 

Kim contemplated this offer. It was just one teeny, little lesson. Besides, if she learned how to drive she wouldn't have to deal with creepy old men trying to flirt with her on the bus. Kim sighed and opened her door. She got out and walked to the other side of the car, waiting for him to get out.

"Is that a yes?" he asked, opening his own door.

"What do you think?" Kim replied, waiting until he got up before getting into the driver's seat. She adjusted the seat until she was completely comfortable, but her breathing was still unsteady. She jumped when she felt Justin's hand squeeze her thigh.

"Baby, relax. You're not gonna kill us. It's your first lesson so I'll take it easy on you," he told her slowly. She took a deep breath and exhaled sharply before putting her hands on the steering wheel.

"Okay, I'm ready," she exclaimed, holding onto the steering wheel for dear life.

"First thing's first: fasten your seatbelt. That's the golden rule," Justin instructed. Kim laughed lightly and reached across her body to grab the seatbelt.

Once it was fastened she asked, "What's the next rule?" 

"Okay, now adjust your mirrors. This helps you know what's going on around you," Justin stated, watching as Kim obeyed nervously. He continued with the basics until she was ready to actually get the car moving.

"Okay, now grab the gear stick and pull it down to the 'D.' It stands for--," he started.

"I know what that stands for. It's park, reverse, neutral, drive, and low," she said with a smile. She wasn't that clueless about driving.

"Okay, okay. Now step on the gas, but don't step on it too hard. A little does a lot," Justin verbalized seriously. 

Kim began to step on the gas and the car moved forward at a whopping five miles per hour. At least she was driving.

"Remember to steer," he reminded her, grabbing the wheel and making the car go straight. She took over and began to drive on her own. She increased her speed by a little and was smiling happily. 

"Oh my god, I'm driving," she beamed through a toothy smile.

"At the rate of my grandmother, but I'm still proud," Justin joked. 

"Shut up. I'm a newbie," she countered, her smile not once faltering. 

"Try to turn," Justin told her pointing ahead. 

"Okay," she replied, biting her lip in concentration. She continued driving around in the parking lot and didn't realize how much time had passed until she noticed the sky darkening. 

"You did good for a newbie," Justin exclaimed, leaning over and kissing her soft cheek. 

"You meant, 'you did well for a newbie'," Kim corrected with a smile.

"Whatever," Justin replied, rolling his eyes dramatically. Kim stopped the car and opened the driver's door. Justin arched one of his eyebrows and smiled at her seductively. 

"Am I about to get a reward for letting you drive, or are you getting the reward for doing well on your first lesson?" he asked with a smirk.

"Get your mind out of the gutter. You have to drive me to Sweet Pete's so I can get Mrs. Anita some food. We have to hurry up though, that place is downtown and I have to make it back before visiting hours are over."

Justin groaned and unbuckled his seatbelt, "I was really hoping it would be my proposition, but ok," he retorted, getting out of the car. 

"Your time for loving will come soon my dear," Kim replied, settling down in the passenger seat.

"You sound like that psychic chick that used to come on TV late at night."

Kim scoffed, "Miss Cleo?" 

"Yeah, that was her name. What ever happened to her?" Justin asked.

"You did not just compare me to Miss Cleo," Kim said in disbelief. 

"Well, I didn't say you looked like her. I said you sounded like her," he counterd, turning the key to start the car. When he looked at how much gas he had left he chuckled.

"What?" 

"I went to the gas station this morning and filled my tank. I'm almost on empty now. Momma's gonna be pissed," he laughed again after Kim began to giggle.

"Why? This is your car," Kim said with a small shrug.

"Yeah, but I borrowed gas money from her. Now it looks like she won't be getting her change. And since she's pregnant, she's crazy. I wonder if she acted like that when she was pregnant with me," Justin said, narrowing his eyes and tilting his head skyward, trying to imagine it.

"Your mom told me that when she was pregnant with you, she had a craving for dirt and pineapples," Kim laughed. Justin chuckled while shaking his head.

"Oh yeah, she told me that too. Did I tell you what she's having?" Justin asked, pulling out of the small parking lot.

Kim shook her head and waited for him to tell her.

"A girl," he replied with a deep sigh. 

"Yes! Now, I can teach your sister how to get under your skin," Kim replied, mocking Cruella de Vil's laughter. 

Justin groaned and replied with sarcasm lacing every word, "Gee, I'm really looking forward to it."

*********

"HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY EVERYBODY!!!" Maria shouted as she made her way into the backyard. Kim rolled her eyes, but couldn't help the smile that was growing on her face. She walked across the grass, past all the children playing by the pool, and hugged her best friend. Brittany and Edie followed closely behind Maria with their fingers plugged in their ears.

"Damn, Maria. Always so loud," Edie complained, playfully shoving the girl. Edie gave Kim a quick hug before noticeably turning her attention to the food table. 

"The food won't be done for another ten minutes. But, if you want some snacks..." she stated, looking at Edie with an arched eyebrow. "Edie, there's some chips and cookies on that table," she continued.

"The food smells nice. Did you cook anything?" Edie asked Kim.

"I made the baked macaroni and cheese and the baked beans," Kim offered.

"Man, it's a shame I'm lactose intolerant, cause mac and cheese sounds pretty good right now and I didn't bring my pill," Edie complained. "And beans... Don't even get me started," she added, grabbing her stomach and laughing.

"Oh em gee, I haven't seen you since graduation," Brittany screamed out as she ran into Kim's arms. The girls embraced for what seemed like eternity before they finally decided to let go. 

"I missed you too," Kim replied, before bringing her in for another hug.

"Hello ladies," a deep voice sounded from behind Kim. Kim felt a hand quickly squeeze her ass and exchanged a quick look with Justin. She watched as her girlfriends perked up even more and waved in unison. 

"Hey Justin," they all said together in a loud chorus. Justin smiled and kissed Kim's temple, drawing out a loud 'awww' from the other girls.

"You two are so cute," Edie squealed excitedly. "Ooh, salsa," she said, eyeing the food table. She hurried over to the table and away from the group.

"Greedy ass," Maria exclaimed, swatting away some pesky mosquito. 

"How's your neighbor?" Brittany asked.

Kim's smile faded a little bit and she shrugged one of her shoulders.

"She's...hanging in there," was her only reply. She looked down at her drink and downed the rest of it.

"Yeah, my mom's a nurse at the hospital and she told me that Mrs. M is fighting the big 'C.' I'm sorry, I know how special she is to you," Brittany continued. Kim simply nodded and felt an uncomfortable silence befall the group.

"So, I'm teaching Kim how to drive and right now we're working on getting her license," Justin exclaimed, trying to make the atmosphere seem less awkward. 

"That's great, Kim. You won't be taking that stupid bus anymore," Brittany exclaimed happily.

"Speaking of driving, me, Edie and Brit were thinking of taking a road trip really soon. We could always use more company," Maria said hopefully. 

"I'll consider it," Kim replied, smiling at Justin. 

"So, what are you guys gonna do after summer?" Maria asked in her heavy accent.

"Oh, well I'm thinking of taking courses at the community college by Vermont Avenue," Brittany answered, pouring herself a drink by the punch bowl.

"That's cool. I'm going to San Francisco for a little while. Live with my cousin Lucinda in her apartment while I'm there," Maria exclaimed. 

"Why are you going there?" Brittany asked.

"I went there a couple years ago and loved it. Also, my cousin asked me to visit for a while," Maria replied.

Brittany nodded her head and smiled before looking at Kim, "What about you, Kim?"

"I don't know yet," she answered honestly. 

"Well, we all know Mr. Cook here is going to Chicago," Edie said, walking over to the group with a large plate filled with various foods.

"Jesus, mommy, what are you? Eating for two?" Maria asked, taking a carrot off the plate. 

"I have a very healthy appetite, thank you very much," Edie replied with a fake smile.

"Yeah, well, you better watch that appetite before I end up havin' to haul your ass in the back of my dad's pickup truck," Maria replied, munching loudly on the carrot.

"I'm eating so my ass gets fatter. Kind of like yours. Except it won't be as gross looking."

"Oh, no you didn't," Maria said, taking a step closer to her friend.

"Oh, yes I certainly did," Edie replied, taking a pretzel off the plate and shoving it into her mouth.

"Mi trasero? Grasa?! Chica, te voy a follar hasta," Maria fired off in Spanish, waving her finger around in the air. It sort of reminded Kim of Sheneneh on Martin whenever she was around Gina or Pam.

"English. Maria, speak English and speak slower," Edie said.

"Usted desea el culo aguarda esta buena," Maria continued, placing a hand on her ass for emphasis.

"Do you know what she said?" Justin whispered in Kim's ear. She looked at him and shrugged quickly. She was just as clueless but she kind of knew it had something to do with Maria's ass.

"Be nice," Brittany scolded the both of them. 

"Yeah, stop arguing. Edie, you're far from fat and Maria, your ass is fabulous," Kim commented with a small giggle. 

"Yeah, I know," Maria said smugly.

"Now, can't we all just get along?" Brittany asked dramatically, causing the group to laugh more. 

"Edie, what are you doing after summer," Justin asked, finally chipping into the conversation. 

Edie shot Maria one last glare before answering, "I'm going to New York with Brody."

"Oh la la," Brittany stated. 

"We're going just as friends and we want to explore the big apple, you know," she said with a small blush. 

"Don't come back with kids. That's all I have to say," Maria giggled.

"Shouldn't I be saying that to you?" Edie countered.

"Uh oh, dance off!" the group heard someone yell. They ran over to the makeshift dance floor and watched Steve and his buddy dance off to Let Me Clear My Throat by DJ Kool. 

Justin laughed his ass off as Steve did the running man and other old school dances. He didn't even know his stepfather could move like that. Near the middle of the song, Steve pulled his wife to the dance floor.

"Go Mrs. P. Go Mrs. P," the crowd chanted as she did the cabbage patch. 

"Your parents are crazy," Kim exclaimed. 

"Tell me something I don't know," he countered. Steve motioned for the both of them to come to the dance floor and they eagerly accepted the invitation. 

The crowd cheered even louder as Kim and Helen did the robot together. Kim couldn't believe she was having so much fun. As a new song started, many people joined them and began to do the electric slide. Steve and his friend were in the front of the group leading them in the dance. Justin and Kim were somewhere in the middle of the giant mass.

"Oh, snap," Maria shouted out from somewhere in the crowd. Justin grabbed Kim's hand as they danced side by side with the rest of the party. 

"Why Justin, I had no idea you had rhythm," Kim joked. Justin snaked his arms around her waist and she reached behind her to hook her arms around his neck.

"Then I must not be doing something right in the bedroom," he whispered in her ear. Kim chuckled and turned around to face her boyfriend.

"You are a master in that department," she said softly.

"That rhythm joke kinda hurt my feelings. Maybe we should go to my bedroom and you can make it up to me," he said, biting his lip. He brought her closer to his body, pressing his semi-hard dick against her stomach. They were standing motionless in the crowd.

"Down boy," she replied with a small kiss.

He groaned out, "It's been too long since the last time. Almost a week."

"You're pathetic," she laughed. Although, she had been keeping track too.

"Fine, fine. I'll wait for a little while longer and then you're mine."

Kim stood on the tips of her toes and kissed him deeply. She smiled against his lips when various cheers arose around them. Everyone was watching them.

"That's my boy!" one of his friends yelled out. He kissed her again until she pulled away and looked into his eyes.

"I'll be counting down the hours," she murmured before walking away. 

*********

Kim was enjoying her food and sitting with her friends at a small picnic table just making random conversation. She was about to say something when she saw the smiles virtually fall off everyone's faces. She was about to ask what happened when Maria interrupted.

"Who the fuck invited Mackenzie?"

"I just lost all my desire for food," Brittany exclaimed, throwing her napkin down.

Kim looked as Mackenzie walked into the yard and towards the food. She saw an older woman, who was no doubt her aunt walk with her. Mackenzie gave everyone, especially Kim a quick once over and made no other acknowledgment of their presence. 

"Well, the bitch has arrived folks," Edie announced, crossing her arms.

"Yippie. Someone grab the champagne bottle," Kim replied in mock cheerfulness. 

"She's here now. That means the party is officially over for me," Maria exclaimed.

"Yeah, me too," Brittany added. 

"Don't leave because of her, please," Kim pleaded. 

"I sympathize with you, mommy but, ella es una perra loca," Maria replied, grabbing her purse.

"Maria, you're supposed to be the tough one," Kim whined.

"I usually wouldn't disagree with that statement, but I fear for my life when I'm around her," Maria exclaimed.

"You think she of all people could take you down?" Edie scoffed.

"No, what I meant by that was, I can't stand her at all and I'm scared that if I'm around her for one more minute, I'm goin' stab her with that skewer. We all know that if I do that, I'm going to prison and I'm too pretty to go there and be someone's little piece of ass. She is not worth me fucking up my life and wearing a chastity belt for the rest of my life," Maria explained, rolling her eyes when she looked at Mackenzie.

"At least you're taking precautions," Justin laughed.

"So, I'll see you all later," Maria exclaimed, walking away.

"Call me," Brittany ordered as Maria, Edie and herself made their way out. 

"Bye," Kim said, waving. She focused her attention on Justin and made small talk with him during the rest of the party. 

Her attention was brought back to Mackenzie when she saw her walk inside the house. 

"I'll be back. I've got to use the bathroom. Too many cream sodas," she exclaimed and without another word, she marched across the yard.

Kim walked into the house and hurried to see where Mackenzie had gone. She figured it was one of the bathrooms and went to the closest one on the first floor. BINGO!

Kim arrived at the door just as Mackenzie was coming out. She was drying her hands with a paper towel when she stopped abruptly. Her blue eyes widened considerably when Kim pushed her back inside the bathroom. She shut and locked the door behind her before she narrowed her eyes at the girl.

"Déjà vu. Damn, didn't something similar to this happen at prom?" Kim asked rhetorically. 

"I'll scream if you try anything," Mackenzie warned in a low voice.

"If I wanted to kick your ass, I wouldn't be standing here talking to you right now," Kim retorted, crossing her arms over her chest and placing her weight on the sink counter. "Why are you here?" she finally asked.

"Justin's mom invited my aunt and my aunt insisted that I come too," Mackenzie replied. "I didn't come here to see Justin."

"Right. I totally believe you."

"Your sarcasm isn't needed. I'm being honest," Mackenzie said, slightly raising her voice.

"There are certain words that don't exist in your vocabulary and 'honest' happens to be one of them," Kim retorted.

"What? You want me to say I came over here to see Justin? Huh, is that what you want?" Mackenzie asked, crossing her own arms. "You're sick," she said with utter disgust.

"Oh, you paid John to drug and rape me on camera. You threatened to send him to prison for all of this even though you came up with the whole idea. Then, after all you did, you have the audacity to stand here and say I'm the one who's mentally unstable," Kim said in disbelief.

"You're blackmailing me," Mackenzie spat at her.

"Well, sweetie you left me no choice."

"You're trying to hold that stupid confession against me so I'll have no choice but to stay away from Justin."

Kim rolled her eyes and looked at the stupid girl with so much hate, "The only reason, I'm blackmailing you is because you were trying to send someone to jail for something you planned out. You got yourself into this situation, not me. And, you should be thankful that I haven't turned your ass in already!"

"And why haven't you? You obviously hate me! Why not fuck up my life even more?!" Mackenzie asked, flipping her hair.

"I don't want to fuck up your already fucked up life. I admit that I let you get off easy. Way too easy. But, that's only because a small, very, very small part of me feels sorry for you. You're delusional and simply put, stupid. I know you want Justin, but you're living in a fantasy world. You might actually need a psychiatrist or psychologist more that you need a maximum security prison," she bit out.




Closer Ch. 05



Mackenzie laughed bitterly, "I guess the fact that you found out was my fault. An evil genius is never supposed to tell their plan to their nemesis. And John, that asshole, is like the evil, dim-witted sidekick who has some stupid epiphany and he helped you."

"He realized that the money wasn't worth ruining his life. Oh, and the fact that you tried to frame him sort of helped guide him toward a rational decision," Kim replied coolly.

"How is Johnny Boy, nowadays?" Mackenzie asked.

"How would I know? After I confronted you, I told him I never wanted to speak to him again," Kim retorted.

"Wow, is he the first guy you met and haven't slept with. Lemme guess you wouldn't accept Chinese currency?" Mackenzie laughed bitterly.

"John isn't Chinese. He's Japanese."

"Wow, big difference," Mackenzie spat out sarcastically.

"And I've only slept with one person which isn't something I can say about you. Seems like you're on someone else's dick every other day. I hope Andrew doesn't wake up with the clap tomorrow," Kim exclaimed in mock concern.

"It's okay though. I realize that any guy who chooses you over me, is not worth my time. So, you've got nothing to worry about. Your competition has officially retired," Mackenzie exclaimed.

"Trust me, I was never worried and you were nothing close to competition," Kim replied.

Mackenzie rolled her eyes one more time and pushed past Kim. She opened the bathroom door and walked outside. Kim took several deep breaths before leaving the bathroom. 

She walked into the backyard calmly and was greeted by Justin who seemed just as excited as the small children around them.

"Let's go to the treehouse. They're about to light the fireworks," he exclaimed, already leading her through the yard. They walked hurriedly until they reached their happy place. She quickly climbed up the latter and found her place on the small comforter that was spread out. Justin pulled her in between his legs and she snuggled against his broad chest. 

"Happy fourth of July," she whispered as he swept his lips across hers.

"Happy fourth to you too," he replied, finally bringing their lips together. Just then, the first of the fireworks went off and Kim felt like she was in a movie. She loved him with all her heart and he was hers. Forever. 

*********

The next day, Justin sat at his kitchen table, scanning over the various articles spread out before him. He was busy looking over information about the University of Illinois. He wanted to figure out what his major would be when he arrived at school. Really, he had no idea what he wanted to study. He'd much rather be with Kim right now, but she was at work in the grocery store.

"Uh oh, what's wrong," he heard his mother's voice ask. She walked into the kitchen and sat across from him, examining the papers layered on the table.

"What do you mean?" Justin asked, trying to play dumb.

"I know you better than anyone, Justin Ezekiel Cook. Over the past eighteen years, a mother has no choice but to notice certain things about her child. Whenever you're struggling with something or you're confused, you get this certain look on your face. Right now, you're wearing that look," Helen replied serenely. 

Justin blew out a short breath before answering, "I want to figure out my major, but I don't know what I want to study."

"Well, it's still early. You shouldn't rush into having a major just yet. Wait until you get to school and take the undecided route for a while. Then, just major in what you like the most. That's what I did and that's how I figured out I wanted to study criminology," Helen exclaimed, shrugging her shoulders.

"You're right, I don't even know why I'm stressing about this. School doesn't even start until August and it's only July," Justin exclaimed, rolling his blue eyes.

"I think you're freaking out because you're nervous about leaving home, but you're strong and smart. You'll do just fine," Helen added, rubbing Justin's shoulder.

"Yeah, but, you've always known you wanted to work in criminology and college just made you more sure of it. Me, I...I don't have the slightest clue and it's scary."

"Everyone is destined to be something and I'm sure college will shed some light on what you're supposed to be. Just like I know Kim won't be working terrible jobs forever. Despite her beliefs that she will," his mom stated, trying to comfort her son. She looked into Justin's blue eyes, the same blue eyes he got from his father and saw his pessimistic attitude. 

"Yeah, you're right," he said with a smile that didn't reach his eyes. He closed one of the books he was reading and got out of his chair.

"Are you sure you're okay?" his mother asked, watching him open the fridge. 

"Yeah, I'm fine," he replied quickly, grabbing a can of Pepsi and shutting the fridge door. He walked back over to his mom and sat in his seat. He smiled when he saw her absently rub her small stomach.

"Still craving pickles and rocky road ice cream?" he asked, opening the can. 

Helen laughed and looked down at her belly, "Not at the moment. Right now I really, really want ice cubes smothered with chocolate and salsa," Helen replied, closing her eyes and moaning. Justin virtually gagged at the thought.

"That's disgusting," he commented, making a face.

"Hey, don't judge until you try it," she laughed loudly. Justin laughed at his mother and shook thoughts of eating that food away.

"Well, as long as it isn't going in my body," he replied, taking a sip of the ice cold beverage. 

"So, I wanted to get your opinion," Helen started, still rubbing her belly that wasn't even really beginning to swell. 

"On?" Justin asked, setting the can down on the table.

"Well, I was thinking of names for the baby and I wanted to know what you thought of them," she exclaimed.

"Cool, lay the possibilities on me," Justin replied after another mouthful of soda. 

"Okay, well possibility number one is: Rachel Rhiannon Pratt, number two is: Erica Yvonne Pratt, and number three is: Lillian Marie Pratt," she said with a smile. 

Justin thought about the names for a moment and took another sip of soda. He exhaled at the burn tickling down his throat with every gulp. 

"I like the first option, but it's all about the name that will fit her," Justin said, shrugging his shoulders. 

"What about Steve? Did he come up with any names?" Justin asked.

"He wants to name her Biddy," Helen replied, rolling her eyes. 

Justin arched his eyebrows, "Well, you two still have about five months to decide." He sipped the last of his drink and looked at his mother.

"But, don't let him name the baby that," he added before getting out of his chair and throwing away the can.

"Hey, hey, hey, put that in the recycling bin," his mother said, pointing to the blue bin next to the trash.

"But, I already put it in the garbage," he complained. He knew she was going to make him do it, but it still didn't hurt to try and get out of it.

"Then take it out of the garbage, put it in the bin and wash your hands," she ordered through gritted teeth. 

Justin unhappily followed her request and hurriedly washed his hands of the gunk sticking to him. 

"Thank you," his mother said in a sweet voice.

"I think I liked you better when you weren't knocked up," he retorted, making his way out of the kitchen.

"Steve told me the exact same thing so you two should start a club," she countered as he retreated upstairs to his bedroom. 

*********

Justin had taken a first class trip to lala land and was enjoying every minute of it. His sexy companion on this trip was non-other than Kim. He watched her stroll towards him on the sandy beach in her incredibly sexy polka dotted bikini. She smiled seductively at him while lifting her arms up to remove the top of her bikini. He was watching with so much anticipation for the moment she got rid of the unwanted clothing.

When the clothing was gone, he had no choice but to look in awe. Her breasts were amazing and beautiful. Her beautiful chocolate nipple stood hard and erect. They were just begging for his mouth.

"You want me don't you?" Kim asked, running her fingertips down her body and gripping the sides of her bikini bottoms. 

"Fuck yeah I do," he replied, biting his lip.

"Come here," she whispered to him. Justin immediately filled the gap separating them and automatically wrapped his arms around her waist. She leaned against him, pressing her breast against his bare chest. He groaned at the feel of her sensitive nipples rubbing against him. He could feel her kissing and licking his chest. When she nipped his nipple softly he groaned and grabbed a handful of her hair.

"God, Kim," he strained out. He felt her sweet kisses move lower until she reached his abdomen. He moaned as she licked the smooth planes of his stomach. 

"Haha, someone missed me," he heard her say. Only, it wasn't coming from the Kim in his dream. He heard someone say those words loud and clear and now his dream world was slowly fading into his room. Shit! He was awake.

Justin reflexively moaned when he felt wet lips against his abs. That definitely wasn't imaginary. He looked down and saw Kim kissing him. She was looking up at him with a huge grin on her face as he tongue ran across his skin.

"Hey, baby," Kim whispered, running her mouth forward. She licked his bottom lip before he opened his mouth and massaged her tongue with his. 

"You should wake me up like this more often," Justin laughed when she pulled away.

"So you were dreaming about me, huh?" she said as more of a fact that a question.

"And how do you know I wasn't dreaming of someone else?" Justin retorted cockily.

"Hmm, the fact that you kept moaning my name kind of gave you away," she replied. "Your mom told me you were asleep all day."

Justin shrugged and kissed her again. 

"But, I'm awake now and daddy's in the mood for a little one on one time with his girl," he exclaimed, pulling her on top of him. He leaned up and kissed her neck causing her to moan a little. After a moment, she pushed him away and he looked at her in confusion.

"Your parents are downstairs," she whispered.

"And?"

"And, I don't want them hearing us. It's awkward," she replied.

"We'll keep it down, like we did on prom night," he countered.

"They were sleep when that happened. Right now they're both downstairs watching Deal or No Deal," Kim said, motioning towards the door. She sat next to him on the large bed and removed her ponytail to set her beautiful hair free.

Justin sighed and looked over at his dresser. He reached over and turned on the radio. He turned it on a random rock music station and turned up the volume.

"So, we'll play something loud to drown out your screaming," he whispered in her ear.

"My screaming?" Kim scoffed with a small giggle.

"Yeah, your screaming."

Kim straddled his lap and ripped off her button up shirt as a sexy guitar solo filled the room. She wiggled on top of him and played with the straps of her bra while swaying to the sexy music playing around them.

"Do you think you can get me to scream again?" she whispered against his ear.

Justin lifted himself off the bed and kissed her shoulder and neck while expertly unclasping the hooks in her bra. He pulled it away and threw it on the floor, finally freeing her beautiful breasts from its small prison. 

"Is that a challenge?" he asked, massaging both of her breasts in his large hands.

"Mm-hmm, it sure is," she moaned out when he took one of her nipples into his hot mouth. He rolled his tongue around the small bud over and over again. It was driving her insane. Then, when he began paying homage to the other, she knew she had to have him now.

She pushed him back down on the bed and smiled down at him. She climbed off the bed and watched his predatory eyes follow her every moment.

"Where are you going?" he asked softly.

"Patience grasshopper," she told him. Kim pulled her workpants off along with her underwear. Justin looked at her beautiful body in anticipation. He quickly took off his boxers and threw them off the bed. 

She walked over to the dresser she knew he kept his condoms in and pulled one out. She giggled softly.

"What's so funny?" he asked.

Kim waved the condom wrapper and giggled, "Nothing, it's strawberry flavored. I bet it taste good. Especially on you."

"Come here, sexy," he whispered, flexing his finger for her to come to him. Kim crawled over to him on the bed and straddled his lap. He removed the condom from her hands and opened it before putting it on. He was about to lower her on his body, when she pushed him away.

"I think we should put my theory to the test," she exclaimed. 

Justin watched in amazement as she moved down his body. Kim licked the tip of his condom covered cock like it was the best ice cream cone she'd ever had.

"I was right," she moaned before covering his dick with her wet, hot mouth. She bobbed up and down slowly, coating him with her saliva. Justin wished so badly that the barrier between his cock and her mouth was gone.

"My dirty girl," Justin whispered to himself. 

She totally surprised him when she took her mouth of his member and began to take one of his balls in her mouth. She swirled her tongue around the sensitive skin over and over before finally taking his penis back into her mouth. Her loving assault continued until he had to pull her away from his dick.

"I don't wanna cum yet," he told her. 

Kim smiled down at him and made her way up his body. When she straddled him, she immediately positioned his dick at her drenched opening. She leaned down and kissed him one more time before sitting down on his raging erection.

"Ahh, oh," she groaned out as she lowered her body on his manhood. 

She settled down for a moment and then began to ride him for all he was worth. Kim danced and moved around on his beautiful organ as the various guitar licks waved through the air. The lyrics about raunchy, uninhibited sex made her unconsciously pump faster.

"Oh, fuck, Kim," Justin whispered, gripping her waist as she continued to buck and grind against him. Each time her hips rotated against his, he clenched his teeth to keep from screaming out himself. Her pussy felt so amazing as it pulsed and throbbed around his cock. He felt like he was going to explode. He needed more of her though and he knew exactly how to do it.

He quickly flipped her onto her back and began to stroke in and out of her hard and deep. Kim thought she was going to pass out. Justin might have to call an ambulance for her soon. Each stroke against her was so tortuously delicious.

In...

Out...

Harder. Faster.

In....Harder.

Out....Faster.

"Oh, fuck. I'm almost there. I'm so close," Kim screamed out, but most of it was tuned out by the radio. She couldn't even verbalize any more words because the next thing she knew, she was cumming. Her eyes were rolled back as far as they could possibly go and her fingers dug into his strong shoulders. Her back arched against him and she hugged him closer to her body. She couldn't even moan, groan or make any other type of noise because it all became caught in her throat. She panted out her orgasm until she could feel her back finally resting against the comfortable mattress again.

Justin sucked at her bottom lip as he pumped even harder and faster. Kim's legs were locked around his waist and she writhed underneath him, meeting each of his thrust. 

"Oh, shit," he said through clenched teeth as he shot his cum into the latex. He lay there on top of her just enjoying the feel of her heartbeat against his. When he felt like he regained all his strength, he rolled off of her. 

"I won," he stated.

"What?"

"I heard you screaming," he retorted cockily, turning off the radio.

"I think you just let your orgasm get to your brain because I didn't scream," she countered. 

"Oh yeah. Then what was this about: 'Oh, fuck. I'm almost there. I'm so close'?" he mocked, in a squeaky and girly voice.

"Shut up, my voice is not that high," she complained.

"You know what? I think you're right. I don't think I got you to scream loud enough. Let me try again," he said seductively. 

"If you think you can handle me," Kim whispered back. 

"Ooh, I love a dare."

Justin grabbed another condom from his dresser and prepared to fuck this beauty senseless. He turned the radio back on and prepared to get back to work, but this time he had another idea.

"Get on your hands and knees," he ordered.

After another lengthy and loud love making session, they laid tangled in each others arms. 

"Ok, you won," Kim said suddenly.

"Thought so. Say it," he commanded. 

Kim looked up at his sated eyes and laughed. "Are you serious?" she asked.

"Of course I am, love," he stated. "Now say it."

Kim dramatically rolled her eyes and reached over to her left and turned off the loud music. Now, the room seemed completely dead and the only thing they could hear was their periodic breathing. 

She cleared her throat and said the phrase that was etched in both their hearts. 

"Justin Ezekiel Cook, you are the master of all. You are better than me and cuter than me, you're humble servant, Kimberly Monee Barns. I will never be as admirable or as smart as you. You are a king between the sheets," she stated as he nodded his obvious approval.

"That sounded so sexy leaving your beautiful lips."

"Whatever, don't act so smug," she replied, sticking out her tongue.

"You know, you can try and get me to scream," he offered. Kim scoffed loudly and kissed his lips.

"Thanks, but no thanks. You tired me out, babe."

"That's because I can never get enough of you, Kim," he replied.

"Say my name again," Kim whispered. Justin chuckled and bit her earlobe softly.

"Isn't that my line?" he asked.

"It's mine now," Kim retorted.

"Since when?"

"Since now," she laughed.

"Kimberly Monee Barns. Kimberly Monee Barns. Kimberly Monee Barns, I love you so much," he cooed in her ear over and over again until she fell asleep in his arms.

*********

The rest of summer seemed to fly by and before anyone knew it, it was August. Justin was so excited that in a few days he would finally be in college. However, another part of him hated the fact that he had to go and leave his girl behind.

Justin leaving for Chicago had become like a illegal subject when they were around each other. Almost taboo. When it did come up, they referred to it as 'that day' and sometimes it helped lessen the blow. Things had quickly changed and sometimes it seemed surreal. 

Kim went to visit Anita every single day since she'd been admitted into the hospital. But, since Justin was leaving soon, she found herself cutting the visits short. Anita even encouraged it by repeatedly saying: 'You coming to see me again? Go be with Justin before he leaves town." Kim would smile and stay around for about twenty minutes before she actually left.

As the days drew near, Kim became more and more anxious. She really didn't want him to go away, but this was a good opportunity for him and she would try to be supportive. She knew that she told everyone she could handle the long distance and she was going to try and make good with that promise. 

So tonight, Justin had taken her to see a new scary movie that had just come out. He continually made fun of her whenever she jumped during a really intense scene. 

"Oh, no. Run," she whispered when the killer started chasing one of the characters. Justin chuckled next to her and she softly tapped him.

"Not funny," she exclaimed. Kim covered her eyes just when it looked like the killer finally caught his prey.

"No, no, please. PLEASE!" the person on the movie screamed over and over. Kim peeked through the cracks of her fingers and let out a sigh of relief when the person got away. She was on edge as the person ran and fell causing their ankle to snap.




Closer Ch. 06



Kim drove with the small sound of the car's radio keeping her company. She was so exhausted and the ride to her small apartment seemed like it was taking forever. She mindlessly tapped her fingers against the steering wheel to the tune on the radio. Anything to keep herself from nodding off while the car was in motion. Finally, she thought as she pulled up to the building. She rushed out of the car and was barely able to walk upstairs, but she mustered all her strength and got to her floor. I hate those stairs, she told herself.

She could hear the hallelujah chorus in her head singing when she finally got inside of the apartment. She quickly undid her shoelaces and kicked off her shoes. A powerful yawn rocked through her as she made her way into the bathroom. God, she just needed a nice, hot shower. If the hot water was even working this evening. She turned on the shower and climbed inside, sighing at the comforting feel of the warm water. Just what the doctor ordered, she thought to herself.

Work had been a complete bitch today. Well, her boss was a complete bitch today. Kim believed he actually enjoyed making the employees suffer. Tom was crazy and there was nothing they could do about it considering his father was the owner of the store they worked at. She would just have to suck it up and deal with his little power trips until a better opportunity came along. Work had completely wiped her out and she wasn't even able to see Anita, who seemed to be wasting away.

Kim hadn't even lathered up her favorite body wash when she suddenly heard a noise coming from somewhere in the apartment. Her imagination? No, because she suddenly heard it again. What was that? Voices? Maybe it was her neighbors. No, because the noises sounded closer.

"Hello?" she yelled out, suddenly feeling like she was in some slasher flick. She heard some more noises coming from a room close to the bathroom. She turned off the shower water and quickly reached over to grab her large towel. She wrapped it securely around her body and slowly opened the bathroom door. She felt like the stupid victim in a horror movie who went somewhere to investigate a strange noise.

"Hello?" she asked again but quieter. Suddenly her throat felt really dry. She crept cautiously out of her bathroom and walked down the hall and into the living room. Her eyes suddenly bulged out when she saw the figure sitting on her couch like he owned the place. 

"Hello there, sweetness. You don't look so happy to see me," he chuckled, tilting his head and inspecting Kim's wet body. 

"Reaper?" she said staring at him in disbelief. Why the hell was he here? 

"In the flesh," he replied, raising his arms and pointing to his body. 

Kim walked into the kitchen and grabbed a butcher knife from one of the drawers. She spun around and pointed it in his direction. She was breathing heavy, scared of what she would do with that knife in about twenty seconds if he didn't leave.

"Whoa, whoa, sweetness calm down." Reaper hurried to his feet, watching her closely. He held up his hands and waited for her to lower the knife.

"What the fuck are you doing in my apartment, Reaper? How'd you get in here?" she rushed out.

"Kimberly Monee Barns, I didn't raise you to use that kind of language, or to threaten our company," a familiar voice scolded. She looked behind the man with the doo-rag on and then at her mother. She dropped the knife and walked into the living room.

"Mommy?" She didn't even give her mother time to respond because she rushed into the living room and into her mother's waiting arms. She squeezed her mother tightly, fearing she'd disappear if she let her go. She didn't even realize she was crying until she felt her mother wipe her tears away.

"Hey, what's all this about. I've only been gone for a couple weeks," her mom said, rubbing Kim's back.

Kim loosened her grip and looked at her mother like she was crazy and whispered, "Mom, you've been gone for almost six months." She held onto her mother for a few more minutes before finally letting go.

"Isn't that sweet? Kimmy, Miss Independent, missed her mama," Reaper mocked with a small laugh. Kim looked at him and rolled her brown eyes.

"I bet you can't even spell 'independent,' Reaper," she spat back at him. Kim looked into her mother's eyes and asked, "Why is he here, mom?" 

Kim's mother smiled and looked at Reaper. "Because I invited him, silly. Actually, he's moving in," she replied nonchalantly. 

"What? No, he can't move in here. This is our place and the last thing we need is him bring a bunch of crack heads and junkies in here!"

"Kim, I'm sure we can work this out. I know we've never really gotten along…," Reaper started.

"Yeah, no shit Sherlock, it might have something to do with the fact that you treat my mother like your fucking doormat." Kim was pissed. She couldn't believe her mother was letting him move in. Not only would he bring junkies but he'd also bring cops.

Kim's mother slapped her arm, not hard but enough to make the flesh sting. "Watch your mouth, young lady."

Kim's little outburst had apparently pissed off Reaper because he took a few speedy steps and was inches away from her. He grabbed her face with his fingers and pointed at her. Kim tried to put up a good front and pretend like she wasn't scared, but her tears were giving her away. Reaper was a psycho and that was a fact everyone knew.

"Now you listen to me, I'm moving in whether you like it or not. We will be civilized to each other for your ma's sake and we will act like a happy fucking family. So, you keep your rude fucking comments to yourself, or I swear to God I'll beat your ass so badly you'll be feeling pain til your thirty. Clear?" 

Kim looked at him with so much hate. If she could, she'd be like Carrie and crucify his ass mentally like Carrie did her crazy mother. If only she had telekinetic abilities or whatever Carrie had.

"Crystal," she said through clenched teeth. Reaper pushed her down to the ground and Kim knew that he could probably see her underneath the towel. She quickly closed her legs and got to her feet with as much dignity as she could.

"Go make me a sandwich, baby," Reaper commanded, slapping her mother's ass. "And you," he said, pointing at Kim, "can call me your new daddy," he said with a small smile. 

Kim rolled her eyes and walked away in a hurry. She practically ran into her bedroom and slammed the door behind her. She quickly got dressed and sat down on her bed. She buried her face in one of her pillows and without holding anything back, she screamed. She screamed over and over again and finally cried. God, she hated him and she thought her mother was stupid for being involved with him. This night was the worst. 

*********

Justin walked the halls leading to his dorm room, barely keeping his eyes open. He was so freaking exhausted and couldn't wait to get some shut eye. He'd been up all night preparing for an exam –that lasted until a quarter after noon– and got less than an hour of sleep. He was so tired that he didn't even bother changing his clothes before he left. So, instead he took his test in his Homer Simpson pajama pants and white shirt displaying someone's middle finger. His attire earned him a few snorts and giggles but he honestly didn't care. He just really wanted to go to bed. 

It was only the end of October and college was already kicking his ass. The courses were tough and the professors were demanding. It was always assignment after assignment and he barely had time to himself. Sometimes he just felt like quitting and going back to Cali but he could always count on Kim to encourage him to stay in school and stay strong. She was his little motivational speaker. The thought of Kim brought a small smile to Justin's tired features. 

When he actually had time off, he spent it with his new roommate, Cole, and some other people he met on campus. They would go to some of the parties that the upperclassmen were throwing or hang around any place that could keep them entertained. Justin found that most, if not all, the parties were mediocre compared to the ones back home, but they kept his stress levels down a few notches. 

Justin walked into his room following his afternoon class and immediately kicked off his slippers. He got so excited at the sight of his bed that he breathed out an audible sigh of relief. He wasted no time in climbing into bed and under the warmth of his comforter. God, it was chilly in his room.

He thought about Kim and wondered if she was thinking of him too. It was probably ten o'clock back in California and she had the day off. Maybe she decided to sleep in like she normally did when she wasn't working. What was she dreaming of? Was she dreaming of him? Those were the last few things that ran through his head before sleep finally conquered him.

*********

Kim felt like her stomach would erupt from laughing so hard at Justin's mom. She was relaxing on the couch, writhing and moaning while Kim massaged her pedicured feet. Since she was in her third trimester her feet were semi-swollen and Helen couldn't stop complaining about them. She was frustrated that nothing would help the pain she was feeling. So, trying to be a nice person, Kim decided to give her a good ole' fashion foot rub.

"That feels sooo good, oh right there. That's the spot," Helen groaned out while leaning her head against the cushion of the couch. "You should be a massage therapist," she exclaimed. 

Kim laughed at the small compliment and said, "Nah, I'm only massaging your feet because you had a long day. No one else gets the 'Kimberly Barns Foot Rub Special' except you."

"What about Justin?"

"Ummm, nope, I won't go anywhere near those things."

"I feel like I'm getting the royal treatment," Helen groaned, wiggling her feet deeper into Kim's hands.

Kim laughed again at the expression frozen on Helen's face. It was too comical and she couldn't help the urge to chuckle at the woman.

"You want to know something?" Helen asked.

"Sure," Kim replied, switching to the other foot.

"Lately, I've been thinking that maybe you should, you know, move in." She said it as more of a question than a statement. 

Kim looked away from Helen's foot and into the woman's hopeful eyes. She was shocked by the question and her mind was trying to reel in the nicest way to say 'no.'

"You know Steve and I wouldn't have a problem with you moving in because we've got plenty of room. That neighborhood you live in is not safe at all and when you leave from here, I'm always worrying that something bad will you happen to you."

"I-I-I-I don't k-know," Kim stammered. What else was she supposed to say? 

"You're here all the time anyways and if you move in it would kind of make it more, I don't know, permanent," Helen argued.

"Can I think about it for a while?" Kim asked after a moment. Yeah, things were a little off at home, but she couldn't just leave. Could she?

"Of course, honey." Helen smiled at Kim and Kim knew it was completely genuine. Helen was always like a mother to her, and her real mom only seemed like a roommate at times. 

Kim continued to pay attention to Helen's feet for a few moments. They continued making small talk until Helen sighed in frustration and grabbed her protruding belly.

"Kicking?"

"All day, everyday. This kid doesn't believe in time outs and I am counting down the days until she's out of me," Helen huffed out. Kim smile and leaned over to touch Helen's stomach. She smiled even harder when the baby kicked her hand.

"Are you still taking Lamaze classes?" Kim asked, still interacting with the baby.

"Yeah, I took breathing classes when I was pregnant with Justin, so it only feels right that I do it with this baby too," Helen replied, mindlessly rubbing the swell of her belly.

"We should get ready to go if we want to get to your appointment on time."

Helen groaned and looked at Kim with puppy dog eyes, "Do I have to get up?" Kim nodded her head and helped swing Helen's legs off the couch.

She stepped in front of the heavily pregnant woman and grabbed both her hands. Kim used all her strength to help her off the couch. They both laughed as Helen had to change positions twice in order to get up.

"That's the one thing I actually hate about being pregnant. Once I go down, it takes an army and a whole lotta to get me back up," Helen exclaimed, wiping the imaginary sweat from her forehead. 

"Ready to go?" Kim asked.

"Ready when you are captain," Helen replied as she and Kim made their way into the room connecting the garage to the house.

*********

Justin walked into his dorm room following his pig out at one of the school cafés. He looked down at his gut which was sticking out because of his large meal. He hadn't gained the "Freshmen 15" yet and didn't plan on it. He sat down at his macBook Pro and cracked his knuckles as he got ready to do work he considered pointless. He saw that Kim's iChat icon was lit up and immediately clicked her picture. Her face instantly brightened when she saw him.

She was sitting in his parents' dining room reading some Stephen King book when she noticed him pop up on the screen. 

"Hey you," Justin said with a broad smile. Kim set her book down and eagerly scooted closer to the screen.

"Hey, how are you?" she asked, unconsciously smoothing down her clothes.

"I'm fine. I just got done eating the best lasagna ever made and now I get to talk to you, so I'm all smiles."

Kim was just about to respond when she suddenly jumped in her seat as if she just remembered something. Justin had to hold back a laugh as she launched towards her purse and searched for the root of her excitement.

"What's going on?" he asked, watching her search through the contents of her small, black handbag. She smiled up at him and pulled out her wallet and searched inside, finally pulling out a small rectangular item and waving it around excitedly.

"I got my driver's license," she squeaked.

"Really? See, I told you my lessons would pay off," Justin said conceitedly. "So, are you confident behind the wheel of my baby?" he asked.

"Yeah, I've been volunteering to drive people around all week. I took Maria to work, your mom to her appointment—speaking of which," Kim stated before digging into her bag and pulling out a photo.

"She got this 3D ultrasound and let me have a copy of the picture," she continued, holding the photo up to the screen. "Pretty neat, huh?"

"That's wicked cool. The baby doesn't look all alien-ish anymore," he replied, leaning in closer to get a better look.

"She's going to be sooo adorable. I can't wait to babysit her."

"It seems like it was just yesterday when they told us they were having a baby and now she's about to be eight months. It's kinda weird," Justin replied.

"I think your sister is going to be into soccer or something because she's kicking your mom's ass all the time," Kim laughed. Justin joined in and a moment later snapped his fingers as if a thought just came to him.

"I have a present for you," Justin exclaimed.

"What is it?"

"One second, you're gonna love this," Justin replied, holding his finger towards the screen and then traveling to his side of the room. He walked over to a small stand and picked up his blue guitar.

Kim loved it when Justin sang because his voice was incredible and had the ability to touch certain emotion inside of her. She giggled to herself as she remembered the time they auditioned for the school talent show in fifth grade together. She couldn't even remember the song they picked out, but she remembered all the teachers loved it. They even sang along during practice. Unfortunately, they both got chicken pox from a sick classmate and were unable to perform.

Justin sat back down in his chair and strummed some notes on his guitar, tuning it until everything sounded ripe and polished. 

"I know this is kind of corny, or whatever, but I wrote you a song. I think about how much you mean to me as a friend and as a girlfriend, and how special our relationship is so I wrote down all these feelings swimming in my head. This song is about our history together and how I wish I could be closer to you. Hence the name 'Closer'," he explained. 

Kim turned up the volume on the computer so she would be able to hear him better and she couldn't help but smile in anticipation. He didn't even sing yet, but the fact that he made her a song made her feel so…cherished and loved.

"Okay, here goes," he said, clearing his throat before he began.

Kim waited for a moment before he started strumming notes on his guitar. When he began to sing, it was so sensual and emotional that it rendered her speechless. He closed his eyes as he sang soulfully; only opening his eyes once in a while to gage her reaction. The melody he came up with was so astonishing and creative, and he pitched his voice against every note in a way that only he could pull off.

Kim unconsciously swayed in her seat as he played the guitar like a true pro, running his fingers along the strings and changing the chords on the fret board. He did all this just for her. The lyrics of the song made her completely melt.

Justin opened his eyes when the song was finished and looked at Kim. She smiled at him and placed her hand on her heart as she tried to figure out what to say.

"Any thoughts?" he asked with a smirk.

"It was…beautiful. Not, it was phenomenal," she stressed, still trying to come up with a better word to describe it.

Justin's face swelled with pride as he watched her stumble over words to explain how much she liked the song. He has to admit that he even shocked himself with how emotional the song had turned out. Writing the song had been easy, but coming up with the tune on the guitar had been difficult. Every single tune he came up with didn't see, right for the song. 

Then, one day while he was just relaxing and playing guitar, the random melodies he came up with made him curious and he sang the song to them. They went together like peanut butter and jelly.

"I'm glad you like it," he said, setting his guitar back on its stand.

"No, I didn't like it. I loved it." She meant every single word. The song was amazing and it was their song. That alone made it incredibly special to her. She was about to say something else when she noticed the room door open in the background. His roommate was home and apparently he brought company.

"Yo, Justin, there's gonna be a bitchin' party tonight. You down?" his roommate, Cole asked as he and some other guy barged into the room. Cole immediately plopped down on his small bed and removed one of the earphones to his mp3 player.

"Dude, kinda busy here," Justin replied, motioning towards his screen.

The other guy, who had entered, Barry, walked up to the screen and pointed with a big smile. His eyes were bloodshot and he was eating a big bag of Cheetos. He was most likely blitzed out of his freaking mind.

"This is your girl, bro? Dude, she's sexy as fuck and she's got some nice titties. She got a sister?" Barry said, waving at Kim.

"I can hear you," Kim announced, waving to him. 

Her news caused Barry to chuckle and say, "Dude, this chronic is the shit. I can hear her talking through the screen." Kim laughed at the boy's stupidity. 

Justin shook his head and mouthed the words 'I'm sorry,' to her through the screen. 'Get rid of them,' she mouthed back. Cole jumped off his bed and rushed over to the screen. He pushed Barry out of the way to get a better view.

"Why are you always putting your hands on me, Cole?" Barry complained.

"Hey, Kim, it's finally good to see you. I'm Cole. We talked on the phone way back when. It's nice to talk to you without a phone. I knew your voice and now I get to see your beautiful face," he said. Kim smiled and waited for him to finish what he was going to say.




Closer Ch. 06



"You're too cute. Now, I know why Justin is sooooo in love with you. You've seriously got him sprung," Cole stated, patting Justin on the shoulder. 

Barry began singing I'm Sprung by T-pain. Cole giggled like a little school girl and gave a high-five to Barry. They began singing it together until Justin threw something at them. Kim couldn't tell what it was though.

"If you're ever interested in posing for Playboy, or Penthouse, or even Hustler, I have connections," Barry said with a sly smile and wink.

"Umm, thanks…I guess," Kim replied, exchanging glances with Justin. Would he just get rid of them already? They were freaking idiots.

"Shut up, Barry. It's time for you two to leave," Justin said, getting out of his chair and pushing the boys towards the door.

"Aww, shucks, do we have to go?" Cole asked, feigning innocence.

"At least tell us if you're going to the party," Barry replied as Justin continued to push him towards the door.

"I'll go if and only if you two leave right now." Barry held up his hands in a surrendering fashion and left the room without anymore protests. Justin shook his head again and moved back into his seat. When he was settled, he looked at Kim with a smile but his eyes were apologetic.

"Sorry about those two, they're potheads." He was thinking of all the ways he was going to mess with Barry for offering his girlfriend a spot in exploitation magazines. 

"I'm kinda curious about this whole Playboy offer," Kim said, letting her fingers rest on her chin.

"You think I'm bunny material, or should I go hardcore in Hustler?" she said with a straight face. It was taking all of her self control not to laugh or giggle.

"You're definitely smokin' hot, but no one besides me is ever going to see you naked," Justin replied with a smug look playing on his features.

"Is that so?"

"Yeah, you're mine and no other guy is going to know what you look like underneath those clothes except me."

"Whatever helps you sleep at night," Kim said, finally giving into the giggles she suppressed for what seemed like forever. 

"You're so lucky I'm not at home with you right now. I'd have you screaming my name so loud…,"he started, but was immediately interrupted by someone.

"Hey, hey, hey watch your mouth, boy," he heard his mom say, making an appearance on the screen. Kim laughed as Justin's cheeks turned dark red from embarrassment. 

"How long you been there?" Justin asked, letting his hand rest on his mouth.

"Not long. So, how ya doing sweetie?"

"I'm hanging in there. I can't wait to come home though. How's Steve?"

"Still wants to name the baby Biddy," Helen said rolling her eyes before adding, "but he's doing alright. He misses you though."

"He misses me? I thought you two would enjoy the freedom of walking around the house naked," Justin replied, laughing.

"Oh please, we did that while you were in high school," Helen replied, waving away his statement. 

"Thank you for that disgusting image mom. I'm gonna have the best dreams tonight," Justin replied sarcastically.

"You started with the naked talk."

Kim laughed as Justin and his mother continued to talk back and forth about walking around in the nude. She just shook her head at the obscene and crude comments they each made until the conversation came to an end. 

"I'm gonna actually do school work so I can got to a par-tay tonight. So I'll call you guys later okay?" Justin exclaimed, already waving at the two women.

"Bye, honey," Helen replied.

"Bye," Kim whispered and watched as he signed off of iChat. 

*********

Time isn't wasted when you're getting wasted Woke up today and all I could say is  that party last night was awfully crazy I wish we taped it I danced my ass off and had this one girl completely naked Drink my beer and smoke my weed but my good friends is all I need Pass out at 3, wake up at 10, go out to eat then do it again  Man, I love college, ay! And I love drinking, ay! I love women, ay! Man, I love college

Justin was having a good time at the party the juniors were throwing. Everyone was dancing and singing along with Asher Roth's I Love College, including Justin. This particular party was better than others he'd been to and he planned to make the most of it. He had already had two shots of tequila and some vodka. 

"Yo, Justin," Cole shouted over the loud music. Justin turned and saw his friend with a cute little brunette on his arm. 

"How's it going man? Hey, where's Barry? I need to kick his ass," Justin asked, looking through the crowd of people. He still remembered what Barry said to Kim and he wanted to break his nose.

"I don't know but this party is sick," Cole replied. "Oh, look who I found. This is Erin, she's from California too."

"Cool, what part?"

"Santa Barbara," the girl replied. "You?"

"Long Beach," Justin shouted over the music.

"Doesn't Long Beach have some rough neighborhoods?" Erin asked, flipping her shoulder length hair.

"Some parts are pretty bad."

"Like Kim's neighborhood?" Cole asked, sipping his drink.

"Yeah, my neighborhood is the complete opposite though."

"Kim? Ooh, is that you're girlfriend?" Erin asked, smiling and showing off her teeth. Her fingers were interlaced with Cole's, whose arm was thrown casually across her shoulders.

"Yeah, she's super hot," Cole interjected.

"Yeah, she's my girlfriend," Justin answered, shooting Cole a weird look.

"Does she go here too?" 

"No, she, uh, still lives in Long Beach."

"That must suck. So what are you majoring in?" Erin asked.

"Business and I'm minoring in foreign languages," Justin replied with a shrug.

"I'm studying education."

"You like kids?"

"Yeah, and I think teaching would be pretty cool. Oh, and I'm minoring in choral music."

"You're a singer?" Cole asked, looking down at the petite girl. She smiled and nodded before turning to look at Justin.

"Yeah, I'm pretty good too."

"Will you sing a little for me?" Cole asked.

"As soon as you get me to your dorm room," Erin replied with a sly smile.

Cole smiled widely, causing him to look quite goofy. "Alright, let's get out of here."

"I'll see you later. It was nice meeting you," she said to Justin. She and Cole began walking towards the door and she gave Justin a small smile before leaving. 

********

The next day, Justin spent most of his time studying for his foreign language test. He was in the library and decided to get another book to help him with the unfamiliar material. He walked up to the librarian and smiled when he noticed who it was.

"Erin?" he asked, leaning on the counter. The girl smiled and quickly wiped away the hair in her face.

"Hey, Justin, right?" she asked, pointing at him.

"Yeah, I didn't know you worked here."

"Yeah, I met Cole here and that's how I ended up at the party. Can I help you with anything?" 

"Umm, I actually need this foreign language book. I don't remember the title but it was about Portuguese."

"Did you lose yours?" she asked.

"Nooo, I just can't find it. It's not lost though, it's just somewhere in my dorm," he replied. Erin smiled and told him that she'd get it to him in a few minutes. 

Justin walked over to the table he was sitting at before and continued to review some notes. He was studying the things that would be on the test when he noticed the unmistakable blonde hair of Mackenzie walk up to him. She looked surprised to see him and decided to pull out a chair next to him. 

"Hey stranger," Mackenzie exclaimed, sitting down.

"Hey, Mac," he said, trying to be nice.

"I haven't talked to you in forever. How's it going? Are you still with Kim?"

"My classes are good and yeah, I'm still with Kim," Justin replied, pretending to be busy with notes.

"That's great," Mackenzie replied, just as another blonde walked over to them. Her hair was short and in a pixie cut that made her deep brown eyes pop out.

"I thought you were getting ready to take me home, love," a woman said in an English accent before leaning over and kissing Mackenzie. Justin's eyebrows lifted significantly as he watched the two girls. When Mackenzie pulled away, she decided to finally make the introductions.

"Justin this is Marcie, Marcie this is Justin. Marcie is my girlfriend and roommate. Baby, Justin is the guy I told you about. The one I used to have a big crush on," Mackenzie explained. 

"Oh," Marcie replied, extending her hand towards Justin. He accepted the offer and shook her hand briefly. He looked between the two girls and smiled.

"Marcie and Mackenzie, that's cute," Justin stated.

"Thank you. Anyway, it's really good seeing you again. I know I was a total bitch before and I just wanna apologize."

"Apology accepted, but you really should be apologizing to Kim." 

"Hey, Justin I got some books. I think one of these might be the one you're looking for," Erin exclaimed breathlessly. 

"Thanks, Erin," Justin replied, grabbing the books.

"No problemo, let me know if there's anything else I can do for you," Erin exclaimed, rubbing Justin's shoulder before retreating. She turned to look at him for a moment before twirling a strand of her hair. Mackenzie's thin eyebrow arched slightly and she got up, grabbing her girlfriend's hand. 

"Watch out for her," Mackenzie exclaimed, pushing the chair back to its original position. 

"What?"

"That chick, she likes you," Marcie chimed in, nodding her head in Erin's direction.

"I just met her last night. She doesn't like me and she knows I have a girlfriend," Justin argued. 

"Does she know Kim still lives in California?" Mackenzie quizzed.

"Yeah, but…"

"Then, she doesn't care. If your girlfriend is in another time zone then you're fair game to her and half the other girls who go here. It's like in that movie Road Trip when they said that it's not cheating when you're in a different area code or whatever," Marcie said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

"Yeah, and it doesn't matter how long you've known her. Take it from me, of all people; I would know when a chick likes you. There's the tell-tell signs like the touching, the giggling when nothings funny and the hair thing." 

"The hair thing?" 

"Whenever she's around you, she'll play with her hair or tuck her hair behind her ear. Every girl does it," Mackenzie replied. 

"Yeah, it's just human nature." 

"You were like one of the school players back in Long Beach. You should know this," Mackenzie scolded. 

"Yeah, because chicks threw themselves at me like I was the most delicious piece of candy."

"So, watch out for her and don't lead her on," Mackenzie warned.

"Why are you giving me advice?"

"I'm turning over a new leaf thanks to Marcie. So as much as I dislike Kim, she's in love with you and you're in love with her. It was hard but I've accepted it and found the person of my dreams in the process," she stated, pausing to stare lovingly at Marcie. 

"I don't want you to make a dumb decision. Especially since I think you two are destined to be together no matter what obstacles you face. But girls never really recover from broken hearts and you shouldn't break hers," Mackenzie finished with a shrug. "I'll see you around." 

"Nice to meet you," Marcie replied with a wave as she and Mackenzie left the library. 

"Later," he whispered. He thought about Mackenzie's words for a second and glanced up at Erin. Nah, they're just being paranoid he thought, finally reaching for the foreign language books.

*********

Kim sighed as she started washing the dishes that were piled up in the sink. Gosh, why did Reaper insist on eating thirty times a day? She wished he'd just follow his normal routine and leave already. It was like a cycle with her mom and Reaper: he'd stay for a while, use her mom for sex and free food, pick a fight with her, disappear for a few weeks, get arrested and call for bail money and then start again. A damn shame, she thought as she rinsed out a small glass.

She quickly turned her head in the direction of the front door as she heard the sound of the locks moving. A moment later, Reaper walked through the door and threw his jacket on the couch. Ugh, she couldn't believe her mom actually gave him a key to the apartment. 

"Hey Sweetness," he greeted with a small nod. "I don't smell any dinner cooking." Kim turned to look at him incredulously as he sat down at the kitchen table.

"Reaper, how many times do I have to tell you not to call me 'sweetness' before you get the hint?" Kim walked over to the cabinet and pulled out a box of crackers. She gave him a fake smile as she placed the box in front of him. "And here's your dinner." 

"Saltine crackers?"

"Well, Reaper, I think you should know how this works but I'd be happy to explain if you're that confused." She paused for a moment before continuing, "I'm not your girlfriend or your wife. I'm not even your friend. I'm just the daughter of the woman you like using. I hate you with every single fiber of my being and I will jump with joy when my mother finally becomes immune to your bullshit. So unless you want to die of Arsenic poisoning, me cooking for you is NOT a good idea," she spat out while still smiling. She turned around and continued to wash the dishes.

Reaper laughed for a moment and rose out of his chair. "I've been working all day. I think I deserve a nice hot meal." 

Kim turned to look at him. She couldn't help it but she scoffed loudly. "You've been working? You sell drugs for a living and collect money from hookers. You go to "work" whenever you feel like it while I'm actually working somewhere legit everyday. I don't feed drug dealers. You want a hot meal? Then, I suggest you walk down the block to McDonald's or Burger King." 

Kim turned around, shaking her head while trying to pay attention to her current task. She felt him walk closer to her and he was standing next to her, leaning against the counter. 

"While you're doing something "legit" you're having trouble paying your bills. Face it Sweetness you need me. Eight dollars an hour at that store is not paying your rent and all your other bills. I am," he whispered.

"You're pathetic. At least I'm not making a profit by ruining people's lives."

"Making money doesn't make me pathetic. It makes me a businessman." Reaper inched closer to Kim. She turned to face him and placed one arm on her waist. She could feel his hot breath fanning over the top of her head. 

"Aww how is the drug business going these days," she asked sarcastically. 

"It's great. I think you'd be good for my other business though." No the fuck he wasn't offering her a position in his little prostitution ring.

She scoffed loudly again, "I'm not interested in being a prostitute."

"Why not?"

"Call me crazy, but constant check-ins to the free clinic isn't appealing. At least not to me."

"Men would pay a lot of money for you. My clients would love it. The younger, the better."

Ugh, this man made her feel sick. Mentally and physically. She cringed at the comment he just made. "Shut the hell up, Reaper." 

"Well if you don't want to do it then fine. Just do it this once for me."

Her lips were pressed tightly together and for a moment she said nothing. Then when she did speak, it came out lower and hoarser than she expected, "You're with my mother. Do you really think you should be offering her daughter money in exchange for sex?"

"Your mom, she was a fun ride, you know, and I genuinely care about her. She always has my back. I just want to see if the apple didn't fall too far from the tree. So, what do ya say, Kim? Come on and give Reaper a little honey. No one has to know," he said, whispering the last part. 

"I hope you burn in hell. You sick son of a bitch."

"You'll like it. I promise. You shouldn't have a problem with this. After all you are Shawnee's daughter."

Kim spun around at the outrageous comment. She couldn't believe he said that. She was so sick of people judging her because of her mother's mistakes. She was so sick of men thinking she'd give it up at the first sight of money. It was bad enough that people in high school treated her like crap because of where she came from and now she was hearing it from a man who still read at a fifth grade level?! FUCK THAT!

"You don't know shit about me, Reaper! Yeah, I'm Shawnee's daughter, but I'm not like her. I would NEVER sell my body to some lowlife loser! I'm not a whore." 

"They all say that until someone offers the right price. What's your price, Sweetness?" he asked, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a wad of cash. "How much do I have to give in order for you to show me some skin?"

Kim didn't hesitate for one second. As soon as those words left his mouth she spit at him. He deserved it. He was a total prick and she hated him so much that it was scary. She watched in smug satisfaction as her spit landed on his left eye. He wiped off the thick mucus and chuckled. 

He turned his back towards her and stood silent for a moment. Kim watched as the muscles in his back relaxed. He turned back around and glared at her, but she refused to be intimidated by him. She was about to walk into the living room when suddenly his hand snaked out and he slapped her hard. She fell to the floor and whimpered, rubbing the spot on her cheek that stung from the brutal hit. 

She tried to slide away from him but suddenly he threw his body on top of hers, pinning her down to the ice cold tile floor. 

"I TRIED TO BE NICE ABOUT THIS KIM!" he yelled at her, straddling her with his large body. 

"Get the fuck off me, Reaper," she cried, punching his jaw. She watched him recoil and his weight shifted from her stomach to the tops of her thighs. She looked up at the dish rack and eyed the butcher knife she had cleaned a few moments before. It was like fate was mocking her. Here she was on her cold kitchen floor about to be raped, and her only way of physically hurting him and killing him was just out of her reach. She began to punch and kick again when suddenly she heard a loud scream. 

Reaper suddenly staggered away from her and looked in the direction of the front door. Kim's mom was standing there with a bag of groceries in her hands. Kim hurried off the floor and walked over to her mother, far away from Reaper. 

"Baby…"

"What the fuck were you doing on top of my daughter?"

"We were playing around, baby."

"You're a fucking liar!" Kim screamed, she looked frantically at her mother and pointed in his direction. "He's lying. We weren't playing around."

"Reaper, what were you doing?"

"Baby, I'm telling you the truth. Kim and I were just playing around and it got a little out of hand."

"That's not what happened and you know it. Mom, he wanted to pay me to have sex with him and when I wouldn't he hit me and pinned me to the ground," Kim cried, showing her mother the place where he hit her.

"You hit my daughter?" Shawnee asked, setting the bag down and taking off her jacket. 

"She spit on me. I was trying to teach her…."

"YOU PUT YOUR FUCKING HANDS ON MY DAUGHTER?? YOU TRIED TO RAPE MY DAUGHTER!!!!" she screamed, ignoring him. 

Kim heard a persistent knock against the wall. It was the neighbor warning them to keep quiet. She didn't really pay attention to it though. She was still shocked that her mother had just yelled at Reaper. She'd never done it before and since it was the first time she was shocked, she could tell that Reaper was shocked too. Hell, even her mother looked like she'd been caught off guard by it.

Shawnee walked into her bedroom and came back with some of Reaper's clothing. She tossed it at him and pointed towards the door. "Get out," she demanded. 

"I didn't even hit her that hard."




Closer Ch. 06



"She told you to leave," Kim spat out. 

"I'm not going anywhere. I pay these bills. I'm not leaving. You rather go back to living in those homeless shelters? You want your daughter to experience that shit again?" Reaper asked through clenched teeth. Shawnee walked over to the kitchen and grabbed the same knife that Kimberly had been eyeing earlier.

"Get. Out." She pointed it at him, clutching the knife like her life depended on it.

"What is with you women and pulling knives on me?" Reaper breathed out. Shawnee pointed the knife at him and told him to leave again.

"You better do what she says, or she'll have Jason Voorhees envying the way she stabs your ass," Kim exclaimed, watching closely at the tense situation in the kitchen. 

Reaper looked between the two women and sighed. He looked as if he might comply and leave when he reached for his clothes on the floor. He looked over at Shawnee and smiled before quickly grabbing her hand that brandished the knife with one hand and her throat in the other. Kim gasped audibly as she watched the events unfold. 

"I'm. Not. Leaving. Shawnee," he spat, squeezing her throat harder after each word. Kim watched as her mother dropped the knife on the floor and began fighting with Reaper. 

This shit is not going to end well, she thought. She heard the bang against the side of the wall again and ran out of the apartment. She ran to the apartment next door and knocked furiously. She instructed the people to call the cops and just as quickly ran back to her apartment. 

Reaper had her mother on the floor and just as Kim arrived he sent several punches to her face. 

"Stop it!" Kim yelled as she jumped on his back and locked her arm around his neck. She just wanted to choke him until his stupid body went limp. She felt him tug at the back of her hair and pull with so much strength that she fell to the floor.

"Stupid bitch," he spat out before punching her in the face. He held nothing back and the force of one of his gold rings against her flesh cause the skin to split. She cried out loudly and clutched her face, writhing on the floor. 

Reaper taunted her for a moment and stomped on her body with his heavy boot. He raised his boot high in the air once more, and jumped on her. He stopped for a moment and Kim took the opportunity to move away from him. He picked up the knife on the floor and began stalking towards Kim, but the sounds of sirens in the distance must have scared him because he dropped the knife and ran out of the house. 

Kim sat up and watched as the police lights flashed in the distance. She didn't even realize how badly she was bleeding until she saw the small pool of blood on the floor. She felt the warm liquid running down her face and wiped it away, making sure not to touch the source of the bleeding. She staggered over to her mom, who was sobbing on the floor. She held her in her arms and waited until the police walked through the door. Then, it suddenly dawned on her that she didn't have to deal with this anymore. She needed to talk to Helen ASAP.

*********

Helen rushed into Kim's hospital room, fearing the worst. She pushed open the door and walked inside. Moving fast although her feet were swollen and she limped slightly. Kim was sitting on the hospital bed as a nurse cleaned the cut located just above her eyebrow. 

"This isn't going to stop bleeding on its own; the cut's too deep. You're gonna need a few stitches."

"Am I going to have a scar?" Kim asked quietly.

"Probably not. I'll be right back." The nurse left the room and Helen wasted no time in grabbing Kim and squeezing her tightly. Kim smiled sadly as she hugged Justin's mom.

"Thanks for coming," she whispered. 

"Are you kidding? Of course I was going to come." Helen gently examined the bruise beginning to form on Kim's cheek and looked at the girl sympathetically. 

"It looks worst than it feels," Kim lied, hoping it would make Helen's grave expression fade. It didn't. 

"You sure you're okay?" 

Kim nodded and then cleared her throat, "I, umm, don't mean to sound like I'm mooching or whatever, but I'm not gonna be able to pay my hospital bill. I didn't get paid this week."

Helen nodded her head. "Don't worry about it. I'll handle it."

Kim watched as the nurse came back into the room and set a tray containing various items next to the bed. Kim looked up at Helen and stammered, "And I-I ..I was wondering if th-that offer about me moving in still stands."

Helen brought her in for another hug and Kim knew the answer. She just couldn't stand living there anymore. She loved her mother dearly but she could only handle so much. Part of her knew that in a few weeks Reaper would be back because her mother would eventually give in to him, yet again. She already spoke to her mother about it and her mom agreed. This was the best thing for everyone. 

**********

Justin was excited. No, he was more than excited; he was fucking fired up! In two days he would be on a plane and on his way home to California. Two days! He'd finally be able to wrap up Kim in his arms and spend time with her. He'd missed her so badly. He even missed the little things like her fruity shampoo and her cherry lip gloss that made his lips tingle whenever they kissed. 

To celebrate Thanksgiving break, the upperclassmen that lived off campus threw a huge party. Everyone was invited to it. Justin, Barry, and Cole arrived together and met up with Erin, Marcie and Mackenzie. Everyone was a little tipsy, but Barry was already shit-faced and acting like his usual self. 

"Hey, Mackenzie and Marcie, I'll pay you twenty bucks if you two get down and dirty with me," Barry said obnoxiously. Marcie and Mackenzie shot him evil glares. 

"And you wonder why I hate penises," Marcie said, turning to Mackenzie with a small smile on her face. "I mean you guys, especially you Barry, are so one dimensional. All you think about it pussy and threesomes."

"That's not true. I think about boobs too. Speaking of which, Erin can I see yours?" Barry asked, causing the girls to roll their eyes in disgust. 

"You're disgusting," Mackenzie exclaimed, shaking her head with a look of repulsion on her face. 

"You can't judge me, Mackey. Didn't you use to like dick?" Barry asked, taking another shot.

"Yeah, Barry look at the tense you used. The keywords are 'used to.' Once you go girl it's hard to look at men the same way again," Mackenzie replied before leaning in to claim Marcie's lips. 

"Well, what can she do for you that I can't?"

"Girls know what girls like, simple as that. Plus, I don't have to deal with dumbass frat boys." 

"And, our dildos never get soft," Marcie added.

"Huge bonus," Mackenzie laughed.

"Face it, girls know what girls need."

"Totally." Marcie pulled Mackenzie in close and gestured towards upstairs.

"We'll see you guys later," Marcie exclaimed, leading Mackenzie away. Everyone watched as the two girls hurried up the stairs and disappeared into the hallway. Justin still was amazed the Mackenzie was seeing a girl. She was the same girl who used to throw herself at him endlessly in high school, and the girl who ridiculed anyone she deemed unworthy. Yet, she wasn't the same girl. She genuinely seemed happy and it was all thanks to Marcie. Wow.

"Dude, there's all these hot chicks here and I'm wasting time by standing here talking to you," Cole replied, walking away from the group. Barry quickly followed after, walking unsteadily due to the alcohol he'd consumed in a single hour. 

"Want a beer?" Erin asked. Justin nodded and they headed over to where the keg was and each got a plastic red cup filled with alcohol. "So," Erin began.

"So," Justin said in the same laid back tone that Erin used. 

She giggled softly before asking, "So, you excited about seeing your girlfriend?"

"Definitely, she's an amazing girl. What about you?"

"Yeah, I'm going to Miami to visit my boyfriend at his university."

Justin's eyebrows rose considerably, "You have a boyfriend?"

Erin couldn't help but giggle, "Why do you sound so surprised?" 

"You were, uh, kinda dating Cole for a few weeks."

"Me? Dating Cole? No, we never dated. We were just having a good time. He's not really my type."

"But you still had this boyfriend while you were with Cole?"

Erin shrugged her slender shoulders that were masked by her jean jacket. "Why not? My boyfriend and I have an open relationship."

"An open relationship?" 

"Yeah, it gives us the opportunity to experience new things while still being committed to each other. He can see other girls; I can see other guys, but at the end of the day, we're still with each other." 

"What if he finds some girl he really likes and leaves you for her?" Justin asked, drinking the rest of the ice cold beer that was left in the cup.

Erin shrugged again. "Shit happens, right?"

"Do you love your boyfriend? This just seems like an easy way for your relationship to fail."

"Of course I love him. This arrangement just means that I can do this," she stated, before pulling Justin down by his collar and kissing him. When she pulled back, she smiled and looked deep into his eyes before continuing, "...and not feel guilty about it." 

She pulled him down again and planted another chaste kiss on his lips. Justin didn't know why, but he didn't pull away. He just let her kiss him over and over until he felt her tongue dip into his mouth. He had way too many beers and now instead of thinking, he was reacting. 

"You taste good," she moaned into his mouth. It felt like Justin's hands had a mind of their own because suddenly he felt his hands caressing her shoulders and moving down. "Let's go upstairs," she whispered. Again, he didn't think, he just reacted and nodded his head.

*********

Erin led the way to the bedroom, she knew one of the people that lived there and decided to use their room. She held onto to Justin's collar with one hand and opened the door that her back was pressed against with the other. She quickly dragged him into the room, giggling when he slapped her ass with a loud SMACK!

"Are you ready for me, lover?" she whispered in his ear, gently sucking on the tip before licking the lobe. 

Justin didn't even realize what he'd been doing until the bedroom door closed and a moment later he was thrown on the soft king sized bed. His tipsy brain had him doing things he wouldn't be doing under other circumstances. He sat there watching the girl closely. Erin walked over to the lamp sitting on one of the dressers and quickly turned it on. 

She sauntered over to him, removing her jacket in the process. She was wearing a purple halter top underneath that made her cleavage pop out. She stroked and rubbed her skin in an attempt to look like some beautiful seductress while making her way over to him. She effortlessly pulled down her short skirt, revealing her small black thong that was hidden underneath. Finally, she pulled down the halter top, revealing her bare naked breasts to him.

"I've wanted to do this ever since I met you," she exclaimed, sitting on his lap. "You look sooo delicious," she hissed, lifting up his shirt. She smiled while she looked at his body and let her fingers run along his toned stomach. She ran her fingers down to his dick and began to rub his member, trying to get the reaction she wanted. 

She leaned down to kiss him again and he kissed back. She touched his skin as he rubbed her breasts, gently pinching her nipples which were rapidly becoming erect. He sat there and kissed and felt her body, but it wasn't doing anything for him. 

In high school, he might've been extremely turned on by this, but now he wasn't. Her touch didn't make his skin tingle and burn the way he liked. And, her flesh against his didn't make him beg for more. Erin just couldn't compare to the woman who had already stolen his heart, Kim. And now look at him. He was doing things he had no business doing with some girl he'd known for only a couple weeks. He promised Kim he wouldn't hurt her and now he felt like a liar. He wasn't going to hurt her the way he'd done other girls in the past. She was too good for that.

Justin pulled back from Erin as she tried to reach her hand into his pants. He pushed her away softly onto the bed and fixed his clothes.

"What's up?" she asked, clearly confused.

"I can't do this to her. I'm sorry, Erin. I just can't."

Erin scoffed and crossed her arms over her chest, "Well, what she doesn't know won't hurt her."

"I love her."

"Whoa, dude you're 18…"

"I'm 19."

"Whatever, the point is you're still young. Don't you think it's a little early for you to be saying you love someone?"

"No, I don't. She's so amazing and I'm lucky to have her. Doing this won't only hurt her, it'll hurt me too. I can't blow my chances with her. I can't lose her. I'm sorry, Erin."

Erin huffed loudly and shook her head in disbelief. After a moment she reached for her shirt and looked at him. She didn't look upset or angry she looked like she gained a new respect for him.

"No, she's the lucky one. I know most guys wouldn't stay faithful if they were so far away from their girl. She's lucky to have chosen one who at least tried to stay true to her. I can't hold that against you," she replied, picking up her clothes and putting them back on.

Justin walked over to the door and waited for Erin to become fully dressed again. She walked over to the door with him and he opened it. Erin walked out first and Justin followed. The door across from them opened also and out walked Marcie and Mackenzie. They were giggling, but as soon as they saw Erin and Justin, their laughter suddenly halted. 

Marcie and Mackenzie glared at Erin and then at Justin, shaking their heads. Erin bit her lip nervously and quietly pointed downstairs. "I'm gonna go back to the party. I'll talk to you guys later," she exclaimed before walking down the flight of stairs.

Mackenzie waited until Erin vanished within the crowd of people before she looked at Justin again.

"Listen, I know this looks bad but…," was all he got out before Mackenzie rushed over to him and slapped him. The pain was mild compared to being slapped by Kimberly, but it still didn't feel good. 

"You should be ashamed of yourself," she hissed. She rolled her eyes at him and then rushed downstairs. Marcie looked at him in abhorrence and left without a single word. The look she gave him felt more powerful than the slap he received. He deserved it. There was no doubt about it; he was a total dickhead.

*********

Helen and Steve could barely contain their excitement. Helen had even ignored her bed rest orders in order to see Justin. They waited anxiously in the airport, looking through the crowds of people emerging from the gates. Helen rubbed her baby bump insentience as she waited for her son to appear. Kim wanted to be there to greet him to, but work got in the way and she wasn't able to go. 

Then, Helen spotted him, walking towards them with his bags. Steve walked over to him and they hugged briefly before making their way over to Helen. She snatched up Justin quickly and squeezed him tightly. The swell of her stomach sort of got in the way, but it didn't matter.

"Oh my gosh, I missed you," Helen beamed. Justin smiled softly and kissed the top of his mother's forehead. He pulled away from his parents and they all began walking to the car, making small talk along the way.

"Where's Kim?" Justin asked suddenly. 

"Oh, I'm sorry honey, she couldn't make it. Her boss wouldn't let her switch shifts with anyone," Helen complained, watching the boys put Justin's luggage in the trunk.

"How's school?" Steve asked.

"It's okay. How's my sister and did you finally decide on a name?"

"No, I hope you convince him that naming the baby, Biddy, is stupid," Helen complained.

"No it isn't honey. It's different."

"It's stupid."

Justin chuckled as he watched his parents debate the name as they got into the car. He was just counting down until he got to see Kim again. 

"Soooo, what else is new with you two?" Justin asked, trying to switch the topic of baby names. He watched as Helen shot Steve a small glare before looking in the backseat at Justin.

"Well, there is something we didn't tell you," she said.

"Yeah, what's that?"

"Kim moved in a few weeks ago."

"W-what? Seriously?"

"Yeah, why would we joke about something like that? She was having problems with her mom's boyfriend…"

"Reaper?"

"Yep, that's his name," Steve replied. "So, we let her move in."

"Ooooh, sweetie you have to see the baby's room," Helen squealed. "I hired a professional interior designer and the room is to die for."

"You hired an interior designer for a baby room?" Justin asked in disbelief. 

"I feel the same way," Steve exclaimed, noting Justin's shock. 

"Yes, I certainly did. This is supposed to be special."

"I agree but I draw the line at spending six thousand dollars on baby furniture."

Justin's eyebrows lifted. Six thousand dollars? His mother really was excited about this new baby. He thought about what his sister would look like and how she would act when she got older. He smiled the rest of the ride home. 

*********

"Mommy, you must really wanna get out of here," Maria stated, knocking Kim away from her thoughts.

"What?"

"You keep looking at the door like you're getting ready to bolt out of here," Maria replied, flipping through the pages in a magazine. Kim smiled and sat down in the chair next to her cash register. 

"My shift ends in one hour. That seems like forever. Justin's back home and I wanna see him."

"Awww, that's so cute. I wish I could find someone," Maria complained.

"What about that guy you met in San Francisco?"

"Ugh, he was gay. Why does it seem like there's no good men out there. If they're not gay, they're taken. It's jodido."

"What does that mean?"

"Fucked up," Maria replied. She continued flipping through the pages in the gossip magazine. "I'm thinking about moving to San Francisco."

"Really?"

"Yeah, besides the fact that Romeo turned out to be gay, it was pretty cool down there. The clubs were amazing, girl."

"When do you plan on moving there?" 

"I don't know, yet. Maybe in a couple of months. I have to find a job down there."

"I'm gonna miss watching you not work," Kim teased. 

"Yeah, I bet. Tom won't, he'll just miss watching me bend over," Maria joked. 

"That ass of yours is pretty eye-grabbing," Kim laughed.

"I know, I could be like an ass model. Kim Kardashian better watch out. There's a new fabulous ass in town," Maria joked, setting down her magazine to pick up a new one.

"Wow, Maria. I'm gonna miss you."

Maria was about to say something when her attention was brought towards the front of the store. "Whoa, you might not have to wait an hour to see Justin."

"What?" Kim asked. She suddenly looked behind her and jumped when she saw Justin making his way to her check out lane. "Oh my God," she screamed, running over to him. 

He smirked as she made her way to him. She jumped into his arms and he held her tightly as she wrapped her legs around his waist. She planted small kisses onto his lips and smiled widely. 

"What are you doing here?" she finally asked.

"I wasn't going to wait one hour to see you," Justin replied, leaning down to kiss her again. He gently set her back down on her feet and his attention was brought to the small set of stitches above her eyebrow. His eyebrows furrowed together and he looked into her deep brown eyes questioningly.

"Reaper," Kim breathed out after noticing his stare. "They're gonna dissolve soon. At least that's what the nurse told me."

"Why didn't you tell me? About you moving in? About Reaper?"

"I wanted me moving in to be a surprise."

"And the fight with Reaper?"




Closer Ch. 07



Justin and Kim were in the airport, wrapped in each others arms waiting for his flight to be called. One of his arms rested comfortably on her shoulder and the other was draped around her waist. It was just a little past midnight and his flight was about to board.

The airport seemed nearly empty, with the exception of the crowd of people near the food court. During their wait, they had shared small kisses and whispered sweet nothings to each other. Now, it was time for him to board his plane back to Chicago.

"I love you. Bye."

Those were the exact words that Kim didn't want to hear at the moment. Not because she didn't like them, but because it meant that he really was leaving.

"Appelle-moi," Kim whispered, kissing him one more time.

"I forgot you used to take French at school," Justin chuckled slightly. Kim smiled and stared into his stunning eyes. "I'll call you as soon as I land. I promise," he continued.

Justin hugged her one more time and walked toward his gate number.

Kim turned and started to walk away. She couldn't watch him board the plane. She just couldn't, no matter how weird it may have sounded to other people. It wasn't like they were never going to see each other again because he'd be back for Christmas. He wanted to spend the holiday with his family and see his baby sister, Lilly. She would just count down the days until she got to hold him, and kiss him again. Yeah, she'd be okay.

*********

"Lilly, please," Helen complained as she cradled her crying child. She'd been up for almost forty-five minutes trying to soothe her baby and she was dead tired. It was almost one in the morning. That was the latest she'd been up since college and she just wanted to get some good sleep which was becoming more difficult with the newborn.

Kim walked into the house and tossed her keys on the small table near the door. "You look dead," she commented, noticing Helen's state. The poor woman looked like a zombie.

"I am tired. I should wake up Steve and make him feed Lilly."

"Do you want me to make her a bottle?" Kim asked walking into the kitchen and opening the fridge.

"Oh, I'd be so grateful if you did," Helen rushed out with a small smile.

"You know what, go to bed and I'll take care of Lilly," Kim exclaimed, feeling sorry for the new mother.

"You sure? You don't have to do that."

"But, I want to. It's okay, babies like me and you need your rest," Kim replied, walking over to Helen.

She remembered some of the mothers in her old apartment building would ask her to babysit, while they were out taking care of "business." Sometimes they paid her for looking after their kids and sometimes they didn't. She didn't really care. She just didn't want them getting caught in the middle of their mother's bad decisions.

Helen smiled and carefully placed the baby in Kim's arms.

"Let me know if you need anything," Karen exclaimed before walking towards the stairs.

"Okay," Kim said, slowing rocking the baby back and forth in her arms. The baby continued to cry out loudly until Kim finally prepared the bottle. She sat down on the sofa and began to offer the bottle to the baby. Immediately, Lilly latched onto the bottle and began to drink.

"Aww, somebody was hungry," she whispered, watching the little girl greedily drink the milk.

Lilly was adorable and tiny. She had Steve's eye color and dark hair. Her eyes were wide and expressive, always seeming alert as to the things going on in this "new world." Her lips formed the cutest little Cupid's bow and her chubby cheeks were begging to be kissed or pinched. She wondered what her children would look like.

She couldn't imagine not having kids with Justin. She knew deep down that he would be a great father. What kind of mom would she be? She wasn't going to dwell too much on it though, she was only eighteen and wanted to go to college and have a good job before having any kids.

Kim continued to admire the little girl until the bottle was finished. She burped her for a few moments before cradling the baby in her arms.

"Finally," she sighed when Lilly fell asleep in her arms. She smiled watching Justin's sister. "You're too cute," she whispered, walking towards the stairs.

*********

"Aww, she's adorable," Mackenzie exclaimed, looking closely at the baby pictures on Justin's phone. Marcie nodded in agreement as the two looked through the small slideshow on his phone.

Mackenzie and Marcie were still angry with Justin when he left to go back to California, but when he came back he revealed that he told Kim what happened. At first they didn't believe him until explained how the situation went. They both agreed that he deserved the treatment he originally got, but were happy that he worked it out with Kim.

Gradually, Mackenzie and Marcie forgave him. However, they had yet to forgive Erin for what she did, or tried to do. She hadn't even spoken to them since that night. 'Good riddance,' Mackenzie and Marcie thought.

Justin sat there and thought about California while the girls looked at the pictures. He had been back in Chicago for almost a week and he was already homesick. He didn't just miss the warm weather of California compared to the chilliness of Chicago, but he missed Kim. He missed Lilly. He missed his mom and even Steve.

"What did they name her?" Marcie asked, unintentionally breaking his train of thought.

"Lillian Marie Pratt. Lilly for short," he replied with a smile.

"Who's that?" Cole asked, sitting down with the group and looking towards the phone.

"Justin's sister," Marcie replied, showing him a picture.

"She's cute, but wait until she reaches the terrible two's," he replied with a smile.

"Well, I don't think I have anything to worry about. It's two years away," Justin replied with a shrug.

"Just remember I tried to warn you," Cole laughed. "Anyway, there's going to be some party off campus later tonight. Who's the designated driver?" he asked.

Marcie scoffed and looked at Cole like he was stupid. "Do you ever spend your free time studying?"

"Nope, why would I?"

"Ummm, something called academic probation which you barely escaped a little while ago," Mackenzie cut in.

"You're academic history isn't perfect either."

"Yeah, but now she has me to keep her in line," Marcie exclaimed.

Cole rolled his eyes and looked at Mackenzie. "My grades are ancient history, besides its only one night of booze, babes, and my fantasy of a threesome with two hot lesbians coming true," he exclaimed, winking at Mackenzie and Marcie.

"Oh please, Cole, if I had to stare at your naked body I think I would be an even bigger lesbian than I already am," Marcie snickered.

"Aww, don't be like that. Don't friends help each other out?"

"Yeah, but there are limits and seeing you in your birthday suit is one of them," Marcie replied.

"Cole, give it a rest. They're clearly not interested," Justin laughed, taking a bite out of his sandwich.

"No chick can turn down this," Cole replied running his hands down his body and trying to be sexy.

"Eww, I lost my appetite," Mackenzie said, making a disgusted face. Marcie nodded her head in agreement and they both got up.

"Hey, where you guys going?" Cole asked.

"Far away from you," Marcie exclaimed, already walking away. Cole looked at Mackenzie and Marcie as they walked away, tilting his head to the side to get a better view of their...assets.

"By the end of the year, I'm going to fuck them," he said more to himself than Justin.

"Only in your wildest dreams."

"What? You don't think I can do it?"

"Oh, I know for a fact that you can't do it," Justin replied, wiping his hands with a napkin. "Maybe if your dick shrunk repeatedly and you grew a vagina and some tits, you'd have a chance. Until then, you better find some bi-curious chicks or something because they're not interested."

"I have a profound effect on women," Cole replied with a cocky grin.

"Yeah, I can tell," Justin said, shaking his head.

"Was that sarcasm? I think you're being sarcastic."

"Really? Looks like college has made you somewhat smarter," Justin snickered before getting up with his tray of food.

"You doubt my powers, man," Cole complained, getting up and following him.

"What powers? You don't even know how to talk to women without coming off as a total pig."

"That's not true, women love me."

"How many girls on campus have you been with since school started, Cole?" Justin asked while stopping and turning to face him.

Cole took the time to count how many on his fingers before looking up and saying, "Ummm, about four."

Justin scoffed, "How many of them were drunk?"

"Only one," Cole replied, his voice going up one octave. Justin gave him a disbelieving look and watched him slowly crumble. "Three of them, but Erin was sober."

"You can't get any chick unless they're shitfaced. Alcohol is like your wingman."

The two started walking again, making it out into the chilly Chicago air. Justin sipped up his jacket and listened to Cole ramble.

"Hey, I've fucked four chicks so far. That's more than I can say for you," he said, with that cocky grin of his.

"I don't need any of these girls, man." Justin gestured to the various groups of women on campus before turning back to his friend. "I've got the perfect one waiting for me back home."

"Are you sure you're not gay?"

Justin looked at Cole disbelievingly, "You've seen my girlfriend."

"Oh I know. She was one of the many starlets in my wet dream last night." Cole barely dodged the punch Justin sent his way. He laughed loudly while trying to run away from his friend. When the rough housing finally settled, Justin continued with his speech.

"Point is no one on this campus holds a candle to her. I'm in love, dude."

"You're whipped," Cole taunted. Opening the main door to their dormitory.

Justin shrugged his shoulders and looked at Cole with a smile. "You say it like it's a bad thing."

*********

"Hey."

Kim, who had been busy jotting down information for Tom, looked up at the source of the voice.

"Umm, hey," she replied, realizing the person talking to her was John. She didn't expect to see him again.

"Is your lane open? The checkout girl over there said she was on break," John exclaimed, pointing towards Maria. Kim scoffed watching Maria file down one of her fingernails.

"Sure," Kim replied, setting down her pen and beginning to scan his items.

"How've you been?"

"Pretty good. You?" Kim didn't really want to talk to him. The last time they spoke was the day they tricked Mackenzie into confessing and that was months ago. She had told him not to talk her again and now here he was.

"I'm doing okay. My dad's got me working at his restaurant and we get a lot of business so I can't complain." John had a small smile on his face and Kim remembered when she thought that smile was so handsome on him. When she didn't respond to what he said, he cleared his throat a little and nervously looked down at him feet.

"So, umm, did you, you know, did you tell Justin about what happened?" he asked nervously.

Kim sighed and looked over at him, "Do you think you'd still be alive if I did?"

"Good point," he said, breathing s sigh of relief. For a moment he smiled, but it quickly vanished. Kim could tell he wanted to say something.

"I know you hate me—," he rushed out.

"I don't hate you," she cut in. "We all make fucked up decisions and while yours was pretty fucked up, I'm not going to waste my energy hating you or Mackenzie. I've been through worse. Trust me."

"Okay," he replied barely above a whisper. He didn't really know what else to say and they stood there in awkward silence for a moment before he whispered, "I'm still sorry."

"I forgave you a long time ago."

"Thanks, Kimmy," he said, a small smile returning to his face.

Kim continued checking out his items in silence until all his bags were in his cart. "Have a good day," she said when he began to push his cart away from her check out lane.

"Yeah, you too."

**********

Anita waited patiently in her room waiting for some form of entertainment to walk through her doors. She'd been bored to death in this quiet, plain old hospital room. If her being sick wasn't going to kill her, then being in this room another minute would.

She glanced over at the clock. Kim's shift ended exactly twenty-three minutes ago. It usually took her about fifteen minutes to get to the hospital if traffic was okay. Not including the time it took for her to park, get into the hospital and to her floor. So, if she was correct, Kim would be walking through her room door in five, four, three, two, and one. She felt herself get a little disheartened when Kim didn't walk through the door immediately. Then, she felt her mood become lifted again when she saw Kim walk through the door breathless.

"I had to use the stairs. They're doing maintenance on the elevator," she said with a smile while simultaneously fighting to catch her breath.

"I thought for a second you weren't coming."

"Don't be silly. I always come to visit after work," Kim said, waving away the statement and shrugging off her jacket. She came and sat down next to Anita's bed, grabbing the remote off the bed. "What have you been doing all day?" Kim asked.

"Sleeping mostly, but earlier I read my bible a little bit. There isn't a lot I can do in this hospital. They watch me like hawks all day. It's very...frustrating," she breathed out, rolling her eyes at the nurse passing by.

"They're just doing their jobs."

"Their jobs are to save lives. Not waste time on someone who's life is about to end soon," Anita huffed.

"Don't say things like that," Kim whispered.

"It's true. I'm dying and I've accepted that. I'm not young anymore; I'm not drowning in naivety. I've lived my life. We all die one day and my day is coming soon."

"I still don't want you talking like that," Kim said, turning on the TV and flipping through channels.

"Do you remember what I asked you to do when I pass away?" Anita asked, looking at Kim's profile.

Kim thought about it for a moment and shook her head no as the woman waited for her to answer. She honestly couldn't remember.

Anita smiled genuinely and said, "I asked you to take care of my cat."

"Ooh," Kim said, suddenly remembering the entire conversation they shared a couple of months ago in Anita's apartment. Speaking of which, how much stuff was damaged in the small fire.

"Did they save Adrienne's stuff from the apartment? I know it was a while ago, but did her stuff get burned too?" Kim suddenly asked, looking up at Anita. She hoped they salvaged some of those old photo albums filled with photographs of her late friends.

Anita smiled sadly and replied, "Most of the stuff in that old house got burned, but there was something special of Adrienne's that didn't."

"What?"

Anita smiled again and sat up in the hospital bed. She took a moment to adjust to her new position before throwing her legs over the edge of the bed and walking towards her small bag in the corner.

"Hey, lay back down. I'll get it," Kim exclaimed, standing up.

Anita shooed her away and continued making her way toward the bag. "I can get, Kimberly. I'm not dead yet," she joked.

Kim reluctantly sat back down and watched closely at what Anita was doing. The old woman rummaged through the bag until finally stopping and pulling out a small rectangular item. She walked back over to the bed and climbed back inside the sea of disorganized pillows and covers. She handed the item over to Kim and watched as the girl smiled widely.

Kim couldn't believe it. It was the photograph of Kim and Adrienne at the beach. The one they took with Kim's arm on Adrienne's waist and Adrienne's arm flung casually over Kim's shoulder. Their favorite picture. It was almost in mint condition minus the small edge of the picture that was slightly burnt.

"Wow," was all she managed to say as she looked the picture, trying to analyze every single detail about it.

"Keep it."

Kim snapped her head in the woman's direction and shook her head 'no.' "No," she repeated out loud.

"Please, keep it. I don't need it anymore," Anita whispered with a smile.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Thank you."

"It's the least I could do for one of my granddaughters," she replied with a lazy smile. Kim leaned down and carefully gave the woman a hug so she wouldn't hurt her weak body.

*********

"I wanna marry you," Justin rushed out hurriedly over the phone.

The statement had just slipped out before he was able to catch himself. He had been on the phone with Kim for almost four hours and in between the conversation he realized she was the woman he was going to make his wife. He'd had that feeling ever since they'd become a serious couple and would usually shrug it off. 'I'm too young,' he told himself.

Now he knew that his age had nothing to do with this. He was head over hills in love with Kimberly Monee Barns. 'I wanna marry you,' he thought as he listened to her speak and then realized too late that he had said the words aloud. Now the phone was completely silent on both lines.

'Shit,' he thought and licked his dry lips as he listened to her breathe on the other line. He was about to say something when she finally spoke. She said it so softly that he didn't hear her and had no clue what the hell she said.

"What?" he asked, gripping the phone anxiously.

"Are you sure?" she asked in a hush tone.

"Yeah, I'm positive," he replied, licking his lips again. He began to pace back and forth between the empty space between his bed and his roommate's. It seemed like forever before he heard her take another breath.

"Okay," she finally replied quickly.

"What?"

"I wanna marry you too," she said. He could hear her voice slightly waver a bit from trying to contain her excitement...or nervousness.

"Really? I mean this is really not the way I wanted to propose or anything but..."

"I don't need you to take me to some fancy restaurant or something cliché like that. As long as you really want to do this and it's completely genuine," she replied.

"This is a big step," Justin rambled.

"I know. I know it is and I'm ready if you are."

"I'm ready."

"Okay."

"Okay...okay then I guess we're getting married," he breathed out with a wide smile on his face. His smile got wider when he heard her shriek louder and yell out to people in the room with her.

"I'M GETTING MARRIED!! MARIA, I'M GETTING MARRIED!! JUSTIN AND I ARE GETTING MARRIED!!" she shouted over and over. After a moment he heard another person join in on the excitement; Maria.

"Congratulations!! But how dare he propose over the phone," she said after a moment before bursting into laughter.

"Shut up," Kim said with a laugh. "Hello," she said into the phone after her shouting fit was over.

"So you think you're ready to become Mrs. Justin Ezekiel Cook?"

"Hell yeah," she said with confidence that was so sexy to him.

"I love you."

"I love you too, baby."

**********

"So, what exactly are you looking for, young man?"

Justin scanned through all the different rings on display in the jewelry store. There were so many beautiful ones to choose from, making his decision all the more difficult. Which ring would be right for Kim? He was going to surprise her with the official engagement ring when he got to California. Christmas or New Years, those were the possible dates. Now all he had to do was choose a ring, but which one.

The brittle old woman who ran the shop had let him be for about five minutes, but after closely observing him she realized that he was absolutely clueless. She walked over to him and lightly placed a fragile hand on his shoulder.

"Hello, my name is Greta. So, what exactly are you looking for, young man?" she asked, increasing the wrinkles in her face by smiling deeply.




Closer Ch. 07



"Umm, I'm Justin. I need an engagement ring, but I'm having trouble deciding which one."

"Well, what do you think is in your budget?"

"Money isn't an issue," Justin assured the woman, causing her smile to grow wider.

"Well tell me about her," she urged like a child waiting for their parents to read them a bedtime story.

"She's classy, smart, beautiful, independent. She's amazing," he explained in one breath.

"Well, what type of cut were you looking for?" She glanced down at the glass display and looked at the various rings. All different shapes and sizes. All unique and pretty. "We have heart-shaped, oval or round shaped, princess cut, and tear cut. Oh, we have everything you can imagine," she said in a giddy tone while bringing her hands together.

She walked over to the other side of the counter and grabbed several rings the were mounted inside a black case. "This can seem overwhelming at times, I know. Sometimes, its better to actually get a feel for the ring before making a decision."

Justin accepted one of the rings she offered and examined it from all different angles. He concluded that the ring was beautiful, but too simple. He accepted more rings and got the same feeling throughout his search. When Greta brought out the next case of rings, Justin repeated this procedure with each of the rings.

He was almost finished with the case and there were two more rings to go. He picked up the second to last one and examined it closely. He didn't get the same feeling he got from the others. This ring was exquisite. It gave off a positive energy that seemed to last forever. He couldn't peel his eyes away from this ring and Greta picked up on this.

"Ooh, I think we've found your ring," she exclaimed excitedly.

"Yeah," Justin replied, still engrossed by this ring's mysterious powers. "I think we did."

"So, when are you going to give it to her," Greta asked.

"As soon as possible."

*********

We wish you a Merry Christmas

We wish you a Merry Christmas

We wish you a Merry Christmas

And a Happy New Year



Kim, Helen and Steve listened to the carolers that were standing on the porch. Kim was standing there smiling, but for the most part her smile was fake. She was happy to be with her family, but there was someone missing.

She had gotten a call earlier that evening from Justin and he didn't give her good news. Apparently, there was some huge snow storm that hit unrepentantly hit Chicago and his flight had been cancelled. They wouldn't be spending Christmas Eve or Christmas together. Thanks a lot Chicago, she thought bitterly.

She had spent most of the day cleaning around the house and trying to pick out what outfit to wear and it was all in vain. She wasn't going to kiss her fiancé under the mistletoe or hold his hand while watching everyone open gifts. He was in snowy Chicago and she was in sunny California. Damn.

We won't go until we get some We won't go until we get some We won't go until we get some

So bring some out here



Kim finished listening to the carolers and waited until the crowd had dissipated before walking back into the house. She wished that Justin was here. She had always spent Christmas with him and now he wasn't here. It seemed so out of place. Like the Twilight Zone almost.

"Aww, Kim don't look so down," Helen said, sitting next to her on the love seat.

"We'll see him on New Years. I hope," Steve replied, sipping some eggnog.

"I know," Kim replied nonchalantly. 'But I want him here now,' she added silently.

"It's getting a little late and I'm tired," Helen exclaimed, stifling a yawn.

"Yeah, I'm going to go to bed," Kim agreed, looking at the clock against the wall. "See you in the morning," she said, already heading towards the stairs.

*********

Bbbrrriiiinnnngggggg

Bbbbuuurrrriiinngg

Kim cursed silently under her breath, reaching over to grab the phone on her drawer. "Hello," she said groggily.

"Hey, beautiful," replied the deep voice on the other line.

"Justin? Do you know what time it is in California?"

"Hmmm around 3:45," he replied easily.

"Yeah, it is and I was sleeping."

"Sorry, I just wanted to hear your voice," Justin apologized.

"Why are you awake?" she asked, turning over so that she could lay down on her back.

"I was thinking about you and I couldn't sleep."

Kim smiled despite her tiredness.

"What about me?" she asked, waking up a little.

"What are you wearing?" he asked, his voice turning husky.

"Some shorts and a tank top," she laughed. She knew where this was going.

"Take them off," he commanded.

"Haha, no," she replied.

"You know you want to," he exclaimed, she could tell he was smiling.

"Nope, I wanna go to sleep," she replied. They both knew she was lying, but she wanted to at least pretend she wasn't interested.

"Aww, you don't want to touch yourself for me?" he teased, listening to her laugh a little.

"Well that depends."

"On what?"

"Will you touch yourself for me?" she replied in a sexy voice.

"I already am, baby," he replied. His voice seemed even huskier and it was turning Kim on.

She brought her fingers to her mouth and got them nice and wet. Kim began to run her hands down her body slowly. She closed her eyes and imagined her hands were Justin's skillful ones. Her hands slipped past the elastic band of her shorts and touched her pussy. She teased her slit for a moment, imagining it was Justin's tongue down there pleasing her body. When she flicked her clit, she groaned out involuntarily.

Justin felt the corners of his mouth move upward into a smile when he heard a small moan come from the other line.

"You touching yourself for me baby?" he asked.

"Yes," she sighed.

"That's a good girl."

"Tell me what you want to do to me?"

"Why don't I just show you," Justin replied.

"Haha, sexting?"

"No, open your door."

Kim sat straight up and darted towards her bedroom door. She took a moment to fix her hair a little bit before taking a deep breath. She turned the knob on the door and swung it open. There he was. Justin Cook.

Justin wasted no time in picking up Kim and moving inside her room. He kicked the door closed and walked towards her bed. He gently lowered her down and placed her on her back.

"You're supposed to be in Chicago," she said in amazement.

"I lied. I've been home for two days. I wanted to surprise you," he replied, kissing her.

"You jerk," she laughed. "Do you know how depressing my Christmas Eve was?"

"Well, what was the biggest thing you wanted for Christmas," he asked, looking down at her.

"You. Here with me," she replied with a smile.

"I see Santa came through," he kissed her forehead.

"Yeah, I guess so," she joked. "What was your Christmas wish?"

"To be inside of you."

Kim playfully swatted his arm and giggled. "Real romantic."

"I try. So, since I made your wish come true, can you do the same for me?" he whispered against her lips.

"Of course."

Justin brought his lips to hers again and deepened the kiss. She wrapped her legs around his waist, bringing him closer to her wet pussy. She could feel his erection poking her pussy and the feeling drove her crazy. Everything about him drove her crazy. She moaned softly into his mouth as she felt him squeeze her tits like his life depended on it. He moved his mouth over to her neck and began to lick and nip at the spot on her neck that drove her crazy. She couldn't help the groans that escaped her and she knew her pussy was soaked by now. Justin dipped his hand into her pussy and teased her by stroking her softly and then speeding up before going slow.

"You like that?"

Kim nodded her head and bit her lip to suppress a groan.

"Yeah, I can tell you like it by how wet your pussy is. You wet for me, baby?"

"Yes," she whispered. "I want you to fuck me. Right now."

She didn't have to tell him twice. Justin quickly stripped both of them down and spread her legs further apart.

"I missed you," she whispered.

"I missed you more," he replied, plunging his hips forward and entered her. The both groaned as their bodies became one for the first time in what seemed like forever. Kim sighed softly as they found a small rhythm between them.

She felt the corners of her mouth tilt upwards as Justin buried his face into her neck. Every single breath he let out tickled her and made her pussy tingle slightly. She locked her legs around his waist and began to raise her hips slightly to meet his thrusts.

"So amazing," Justin whispered in her ear over and over. His hips slightly picked up speed and Kim threw her head back against her pillow.

"You are too," she said softly, unable to pronounce her words clearly because he was stealing her breath away. In a moment she felt herself being lifted off the bed, but their bodies never disconnected. Justin had flipped the over so that he could be on his back and Kim would be on top of him.

"Ride me," he commanded in a very husky tone.

Kim rolled her hips slightly so that she could feel him everywhere. She placed her hands on his chest to steady herself before raising her lower body slightly and then quickly slamming it back down.

"Shit," Justin groaned, slamming his eyes shut as she repeated this move. She would raise her body until only the tip of his dick was still inside of her and then lower herself back down. Each time she made sure to twirl her hips slightly and it was driving him crazy. Justin grabbed on to her hips and groaned as she pumped her hips faster.

"Baby," he whispered, still enjoying the feeling of her wrapped around his cock.

"What?"

"It's been a while. I don't know if I'm going to last much longer."

"I'm close too. So close," she replied, tilting her head back and moaning for emphasis.

"Yeah?" he asked, gripping her hips tightly.

"Yes, I want you to cum with me."

"Okay, baby. Make me cum," he replied.

Kim began to pump her hips faster and faster. She could feel her orgasm building up and she was trying so hard to get to it. Every second that flew by she could feel it getting closer and she couldn't wait.

"Oh, Justin, I'm cumming," she moaned out when it finally hit her. She could feel her pussy spasm quick and hard around his dick.

"I'm cumming too," he whispered, gripping her hips tighter and leaning his head back. He could feel her muscles spasm uncontrollably around him and the feeling threw him over the edge. His girl was incredible.

When he finally came down from his orgasmic high, he watched Kim on top of him trying to steady her breathing. Her hair was matted to her forehead and her chest heaved up and down slowly. She wore the same expression she always did after experiencing one hell of an orgasm. It was always so sexy to watch her make the expression before looking back at him and sighing.

"I love you," she said, rolling off of him.

"You know what, I love you more," he replied, pulling the covers over them and pulling her close to him.

"Prove it," she dared him with a smile.

He held her hand in his and looked down at her ring finger before giving her a small smile. "Wait here."

Kim watched curiously as Justin rivaled through his clothes on the floor excitedly. She arched her brow when he said, "Ah ha!"

He turned around and looked at her. His naked body kind of distracted her as she tried to decipher what exactly he had planned. "Close your eyes."

Kim covered her eyes with her hands and felt the bed sink down under his weight. She could see through her eyelids that the room became lighter. He turned on one of her lamps.

"What are you doing?" she asked, clearly amused.

"No peeking," he replied. She waited a moment until she felt him gently remove her hands. She looked into his eyes and felt her eyes shift slowly to the black object in his hand. A box? Not just any box. The type of box that held jewelry. Expensive jewelry.

"Told you I was going to buy you a ring. The one you deserved," he said softly, opening the box. He revealed the most beautiful ring she'd ever seen before.

"I love it," she replied, feeling small tears on the brim of her eyelids.

"So to relieve myself, I want to ask you in person. Kimberly Barns will you marry me?" he asked.

"Of course!"

Justin placed the ring on her finger and observed her. She examined the ring with her lips slightly parted and a small tear rolling down her face. He was definitely in heaven now with his beautiful girlfriend. Scratch that. He was definitely in heaven now with his soon-to-be wife. He couldn't be happier. Now, he was going to spend the rest of his life proving to her how much she actually meant to him.

*********

3 years later

Kim looked at herself in the mirror excitedly. She made minor adjustments to her hair, but was careful about not ruining it. She ran her hands down her gown carefully. The soft satin material of her dress made her look like some sort of celebrity. She loved it. She looked at her reflection proudly and smiled.

"You ready, Kiddo?" Steve asked, popping his head through the door. He had his hands over his eyes and Kim found it amusing.

"Steve, how are you supposed to walk me down the aisle with your eyes covered?" she asked.

"Isn't it bad luck to see the bride before the wedding?"

"That rule only applies to the groom," she replied with a small giggle.

"Well then," Steve exclaimed, removing his hands from his eyes. His eyebrows lifted significantly when he saw her. "Wow."

"You like it?" she asked, spinning in a circle.

"Love it. Honey, you look wonderful."

"Thank you. That's the look I was kind of going for."

"You pulled it off."

Kim smiled wide and walked over to Steve.

"If you have any second thoughts you can pretend to pass out. I hear that's what some women do nowadays," Steve joked as she wrapped her arm around his.

"Absolutely not. I'm beyond ready."

"Well, then lets get this show on the road," he laughed.

*********

Justin stood at the alter and smiled as he watched Kim walk down the aisle with Steve. She had the most intoxicating smile he'd ever seen and it little took his breath away. No words could describe how absolutely beautiful she was at that moment. All the words he could think of wouldn't be good enough. He felt his best man pat him softly on the back and smile at him, showing his approval of his bride. Justin helped up to the alter and smiled down at her as the priest began.

Justin listened to every word the priest spoke. He stressed the importance of commitment, loyalty, love and respect. Justin would make sure Kim would always feel appreciated in their marriage. Now way would he fuck it up by taking her for granted. His heart leaped a little when the priest got to the part he'd been anticipating since the moment he proposed.

"Do you, Justin Cook, take Kimberly Barns to be your lawfully wedded wife. To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or poor, for as long as you both shall live?" he asked.

"I do."

"And Kimberly Barns, do you take Justin Cook to be your lawfully wedded husband. To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or poor, for as long as you both shall live?" he repeated the question to Kim.

Justin looked her deep in her eyes and felt his heart leap when she smiled and said, "Absolutely, I do."

"You may now kiss your bride."

Justin wasted no time in removing Kim's veil and wrapping her in his arms. He kissed her deeply and relished in the softness of her body pressed subtly against his. Every stroke of his tongue against hers was a promise that he would love and cherish her until death came for one of them. This was who he was destined to spend his life with. He was so in love with Kimberly Monee Cook.

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

I want to take the time out to thank all those who have stuck with me while I was writing this story. I loved writing this story and I've loved all the comments I've gotten about it. It's very inspiring. I'll be posting another story very soon and I promise I won't make you guys wait forever :-)

~Taryn a.k.a. FatalCharm