BREAKING AND ENTERING ^{© 2003-2007}

By Lessa and Takara Soong

Chapter Five

Niki was in the kitchen the next morning when Sabrin rolled out of bed and came downstairs, after his shower. He was still brooding about how lonely the shower had been, so he was not in good spirits.

"Good morning," Niki said, cautiously. She watched him, trying to gauge his mood.

"Morning," he answered. It was not a good one and he was not holding out much hope it would improve.

"I made the doctor's appointment, Sabrin. It’s for 3:00 this afternoon. Do you want to go with me?" she offered.

He was just about to say an adamant "No!" when he thought better of it. He had to make sure she was not trying to pull one over on him.

"I'll go," he told her and went back to ignoring her.

The day was dragging on so slowly that Sabrin was sure all of the clocks in the house had stopped. He tried to find things to do to keep him occupied but he could not ease the fear he could lose Lyssa. Finally, it was time to go for the doctor's appointment. As they drove, Niki tried to make conversation with Sabrin but the most she could get for responses were "yes", "no" and the occasional grunt. When they arrived Niki checked in at the reception area and was given a small plastic cup and a test-tube. She headed to the bathroom to supply a sample for testing. The waiting room was quite crowded so 3:00 came and went. They sat silently waiting for Niki's name to be called. It was a little past 4:00 when they were finally shown in to an exam room. The doctor came in fifteen minutes later to speak to them.

"Niki, Sabrin, it's nice to see you both again. I see you have come in for a pregnancy test, Niki," the doctor smiled, oblivious to the tension in the room. The doctor flipped through the report he had received from the lab. "Well Niki, it would appear your test came back as inconclusive."

"Inconclusive? What does that mean?" Sabrin could not believe what he had heard.

The doctor began to ask Niki a number of questions about when her last period was and other things that could indicate a reason for the results.

"I want you to come back in ten to fourteen days for another test, Niki,” the doctor advised. "It's possible that if you are pregnant, you’re not far enough along to get an accurate test result. Make another appointment on your way out and I'll see you then."

It took everything Sabrin had to not jump to his feet and shout ‘Two weeks!’ How the hell was he supposed to wait two weeks when one damned day had been agony? The word that almost did escape his lips next was ‘Lyssa’. The rest of the time in the doctor's office and the drive home was all a blur for Sabrin. Niki continued to try and engage him in conversation, but he barely noticed. Once they arrived home though, she decided she would no longer be ignored.

"This is not easy for me either, you know. I wasn’t the one who did the grabbing that night! You were all over me and now you act like I've tried to trick you into something!"

This stopped Sabrin dead in his tracks. He was again confronted with the fact that his desire for Lyssa had bubbled over New Year’s Eve and this, combined with the drinking, had caused him to use Niki as a replacement for the woman he had really wanted.

Sabrin did not move for what seemed like minutes. He just stood there staring into space. When he finally did make a motion, he turned to Niki. She knew from the look on his face he was gathering his thoughts before he spoke.

"I don't know what to think right now. The only thing I do know for sure is that I don’t want a child. Not now, not ever. I'm meeting Paul for dinner. I don't know how late I'll be.” Before she had a chance to respond, he was out the door.

The Elephant & Castle was a combination restaurant/pub, which the cast of ‘Time and Space’ had used as a gathering place since the first year of the series. They had spent almost as much time there as they had at the studio - holding meetings, celebrating and just getting together for casual dinners. Because of this, the restaurant management accorded them with many perks for their loyalty to the establishment even after they all had become “big stars”.

It took Sabrin about 45 minutes to get there so he still had another 45 minutes to wait before Paul was due to arrive. He ordered a beer in the pub and nursed it until he saw his friend come in the door.

“You look like hell," Paul said as soon as he saw Sabrin.

"There’s good reason for it," Sabrin admitted. They moved to a table in a private section of the restaurant where a waiter came at once to get Paul a drink. Sabrin filled Paul in on the events of the day and Paul gave a soft whistle.

"Two weeks? Do you have that picture of...Lyssa, was it? Let me look again so I can be sure to keep you away from women who resemble her." Sabrin nodded, but looked inconsolable.

"I've never met anyone like her before. She just smiles at me and I want her so badly I'm practically insane. She's funny, caring and has almost no interest, as far as I can tell, in money."

"That's a change. Niki sees dollar signs every time you walk into the room."

"Don't I know it."

It helped Sabrin to be able to talk about the situation with his friend. It was killing him keeping all this inside.

"Have you told Lyssa about Niki possibly being pregnant?" Paul asked.

"No. I'm only going to tell her if it turns out Niki is pregnant. Damn, if Niki is I know she won't even consider any options. I know how Lyssa will react too, Paul. She'll end our relationship if Niki is pregnant. This is an absolute nightmare." Sabrin buried his head in his hands.

"The timing almost makes it sound like a bad omen," Paul observed.

"I must have pissed off some god, somewhere. I find the woman of my dreams and get myself into a situation that’s going to keep me from her all at the same time."

The two continued to talk, Paul tried to steer the conversation away from the trouble after awhile and that seemed to help, but once Sabrin had left the pub, the panic began to descend again.

It was after midnight by the time Sabrin returned to the house. The lights were all off when he pulled up. He made his way to the guest room and collapsed on the bed. He was overcome with exhaustion brought on by the stress and panic he had been feeling. He fell asleep immediately still wearing all of his clothes. He was asleep for only a few hours when something startled him. He opened his eyes to see Niki sitting at the edge of his bed. She was in a long, wine coloured nightgown that set off her waves that flowed to just above her small breasts. He could see she was trying to entice him even before she spoke. 

"Sabrin, when are you going to come back to our bedroom?"

"Do you have any idea what time it is?" he asked, still groggy.

"What is wrong with you? The way you have been behaving since you got back from New York. Your reaction to my possibly being pregnant isn’t right," she accused.

It was dark, so Sabrin reached over and turned on a bedside table lamp. When he looked back to Niki, he felt bad. Her eyes were red and puffy. She had obviously been crying.

“I don’t know how you expected me to react, but-“

“Not like this,” she interrupted, with a pout. “You act like you think it’s not yours. I haven’t been screwing around on you. Is that what you think?” She was crying again.

“No, I don’t think that,” he admitted. He reached over and reluctantly pulled her into his arms to comfort her. She melted into him. “I know I haven’t said it in a while, but I love you,” she said between sobs.

Hearing Niki say that had a chilling effect on Sabrin. He knew she was expecting him to say he loved her but he did not. He had not for quite a while. The best he felt he could do was to apologize for being so cold to her.

"I'm sorry I’ve upset you. I've been under a lot of stress recently dealing with producers and casting people and now this."

Niki, wiping the tears away from her eyes, stood up. "Please come back to our bedroom," she said, holding out her hand hoping he would take it and come back to their bed.

“I think it would be best if I stayed in the guest room, Niki.” She turned and walked out, slamming the guest room door as she left.

Sabrin felt bad. He did not want to hurt Niki; he just wanted this to be over. He was sure his career would take a hit if he left Niki, but he could not live like this. Before Lyssa had broken into his room, Sabrin had been content to just go along as things had been, but now... He and Niki would have sex maybe once a week, and they did not laugh much in or out of bed. He had his friends and she had hers, but she also had his credit card and that made her happy. Sabrin had the influence of her family and a beautiful woman on his arm at parties, so he had thought he was happy, but Lyssa changed all that. He did not want to be roped into staying with a woman he no longer loved instead of building a loving and strong relationship with a woman he did. He rested back against the headboard of the bed and wondered what he would do about this possible baby. He knew Niki would not even consider abortion as this was abhorrent to her, and her family’s, beliefs. Plus if his mother found out, she would kill him. If she was pregnant and he told her he wanted to end it, what would she do? Take him to the cleaners for one.

But it sure seemed as though Lyssa was not interested in his money. Maybe he should really put that theory to the test by living cheaply the next time they were together and seeing how she reacted... if there was a next time.

He decided to put that last thought out of his mind. There had to be a next time, no matter what happened with Niki. He decided the only way he would be able to keep his sanity would be to try not to think about Niki's possible condition until the next test. He changed into his pajamas and fell back to sleep.

The next morning was only slightly better than the day before. Sabrin was dressed and in the kitchen having a cup of coffee when the phone rang. Picking up the extension in the kitchen, he immediately recognized the voice. It was Mark Rice calling about the play.

"Hi Sabrin, it’s Mark Rice. I hope I'm not calling too early. I can never remember the time difference between New York and LA,” he laughed.

"Oh no, it's not too early," Sabrin assured him with a chuckle.

"Great. I'm calling about the part we’d discussed. It's yours if you want it."

Sabrin let out a silent sigh. "I want it."

"Great. The rehearsals begin at the end of this month, like I told you. I’ll overnight a copy of the play to you by Fed Ex today. It’ll be great to work with you, Sabrin. It’s been a while.”

“Thanks, Mark. I’m looking forward to working with you again too.” The two men hung up and Sabrin found he had a smile on his face that had not been there since the last time he had spoken to Lyssa. Even talking to Paul had not caused him to smile much. Sabrin hung up the phone on the counter and turned to find Niki staring angrily at him.

“So, is this baby a blessing in disguise? Is this how I find out that you and I are not what I thought we were?” she asked, hands on hips.

Sabrin’s smile quickly left his face. "Maybe it is. I find it difficult to believe that you’ve not noticed what’s been happening between us for the past few years, or what’s not been happening. We've been drifting apart for a long time and a baby isn't going to reverse that."

Niki was surprised by his words. It was true she did not feel as close to Sabrin as she did at one time but she had not been unhappy.

"I thought we were okay, Sabrin. I still love you."

"Is okay all you want, Niki? I think we both deserve better than okay."

What he said made sense, but she had been probing for confirmation of one thing and she was not going to be satisfied until she knew one way or the other.

“Do you still love me?” she asked, a pained expression on her face. She still had a pretty face. He had once loved this face. It had been a contented kind of love. But not now and he was not about to lie to her.

“No. You have been the pretty woman on my arm for years, but not my love."

Niki was stunned by this revelation. She had no idea he felt this way about her, their relationship. She stared at this man in front of her wondering who he was. What had happened to the man she had known and fallen in love with so many years ago?

"I just got off the phone with Mark Rice. I'll be going to New York at the end of the month to start rehearsals for ‘From My Balcony’. We'll have the test results before I go," he informed her.

"And if it’s negative you want me out, don't you?" She was almost spitting the words at him. Sabrin hesitated a moment, but slowly nodded. “I can’t believe this! If I’m pregnant, it’s your fault! You were like a man possessed. It was like it was fourteen years ago and we’d just-“ Niki’s hands flew to her mouth. Her eyes went wide as she suppressed a gasp. “There’s someone else, isn’t there?”

"Whether I've met someone or not is irrelevant to this situation. We’re talking about you and me. We've been going through the motions for years in our relationship. There's no passion, no love anymore. We're practically strangers," he spoke solemnly.

"Irrelevant?! I don't think you screwing some bimbo is irrelevant. How long has it being going on ...years?" she spoke accusingly. "Is she the first whore you've had or have there been others?"

Sabrin was seething. He hated the names she was calling Lyssa but he still felt nothing for Niki. Hatred would mean passion and neither emotion was present when he thought of Niki.

"Damn it, Sabrin. I want to know now! Is there someone else?”

“Would it make it easier for you if there was?” Sabrin asked her. “Would it give you a good reason to indignantly walk out? Would it help you save face to walk out on the cheating bastard? I’ve never gone looking for an affair. If I’d wanted to, I could have screwed the brains out of at least three other women on New Year’s Eve but I didn’t,” Sabrin glared right back at her.

“Then why are you wanting to end it? Why so sudden? I don’t believe it’s a baby we don’t even know exists yet.”

"Sudden need!?” he shouted, incredulously. “It isn't sudden. Niki, our relationship has been dying for years. This pregnancy scare only makes matters worse. Even if I wanted to have children, I certainly wouldn't want to bring a child into a relationship that's dead." His words sounded harsh but he knew it was the truth.

Niki glared at him before she finally spoke. "You still haven't answered my question. Is there someone else? I want to know now!" she demanded.

“Do you really want to know?” he asked, getting right in her face. His temper took a lot to get hot, but she had just done it. Niki recoiled slightly, but her own temper had flared once it hit her that his question all but confirmed he was indeed seeing someone else.

“You bastard!” she screamed and moved to strike him. Sabrin caught her wrist just in time.

“How long?” she asked between clenched teeth. Sabrin released her arm, pushing it away from him.

“Not long at all.”

“How many?”

“Just this one.”

“Get rid of her!” Niki demanded.

“No,” he said, again in her face.

"You son of a bitch!" she screamed. "How could you do this to me, to us?"

"Niki, I didn't plan this. It happened and I'm not giving her up for you, for anyone. What we have is over. It's over, Niki. Do you understand?” His voice was very calm now as he spoke to her.

"I hate you. I hate her. How could you do this?" She was crying now.

"You probably won't believe this, but I'm sorry. I'm sorry you've been hurt by this."

"Liar!" she snarled before running to the bedroom, slamming the door behind her.

Sabrin was not sure whether or not to feel relieved or sad. He had officially just put the last nail in the coffin of his relationship with Niki. She would never trust him or, most likely, even smile at him again. He was glad he did not have to pretend, but he had hoped to be able to end it in a civil manner that would not hurt Niki so much. This baby had destroyed that plan. Sabrin decided it would be a good idea to get out of the house and give Niki her space. No need to push her. He grabbed his cell and his coat.

Niki was still in the master bedroom, so he knocked on the door softly, telling her he was going out for a while to let her have some time alone. He would be back around 1:00. There was no reply.

As soon as Sabrin was outside, he pressed the speed dial button to call Paul. He was relieved to hear his friend's voice on the other end of the line.

"Paul, it’s Sabrin. Are you busy?"

Paul could tell something was terribly wrong. "Why don't you come to the house? Deborah is going to be gone all afternoon. We can talk privately here."

"I'll be there in half an hour. Paul, thanks."

"That's what friends are for, Sabrin."

It took Sabrin a little longer than 30 minutes to reach Paul's home. When Paul greeted Sabrin at the door he could tell it was worse than he had thought.

"Come in. You look like you could use a drink."

"That's an understatement."

Paul handed Sabrin a beer. "Now tell me, old friend. What's happened?”

"Niki started an argument and it ended with me telling her there was someone else. Saying she did not take it well would be another understatement. She called me a bastard and took a swing at me."

Paul’s eyes got wide.

"She hit you?" he asked, looking for a mark.

"She didn't land it. I caught her hand."

"What are you going to do now?" Paul asked.

"Wait it out and live in hell for two weeks. After that, it depends on her."

"Sabrin, I'm going to be in town for the rest of the month. You know you can call me any time if you need to talk. Now, are you going to tell Lyssa that Niki knows about your relationship?" Paul asked.

"I don't know. I-I'm going to have to. I'd rather do it in person but...I can't lose Lyssa. I don't know what I would do if I lost her."

Paul was quite worried about Sabrin so he managed to convince him to stay the afternoon and have dinner with him and Deborah.

"I haven't told Deborah about this, just so you know," Paul informed Sabrin, before his wife got home.

"Thanks."

Sabrin did not make it home until after midnight but, as soon as he pulled into the garage, he knew something was going on. Niki's SUV was not there. He went into the house and looked around. Things just felt wrong. He went upstairs and found the master bedroom to be a shambles. Clothes were thrown around the room and some had been ripped and torn. Sabrin was not surprised to see these articles all belonged to him. On the bed, he found a brief note lying on top of a pillow.

"Gone to my parents’. I will be back for the doctor's appointment and you, you bastard, are coming with me! Don't call me there. I don't want to hear your damned voice!"

Sabrin stared at the note for a few minutes before throwing it in the garbage. He went to the guestroom to gather up his things to take back to the master bedroom. When he entered, he immediately noticed one of the bedside table drawers was open. It was the one he had moved the pictures of Lyssa to. He searched through the drawer in a panic. What if Niki had seen the pictures and if she had, what did she do with them? His panic began to mount when he realized the pictures were gone. Distracted and upset over the missing pictures, he grabbed the few clothes he had in the room before heading back to the master bedroom. As he passed the end of the bed, he realized he had kicked something. He looked down to see some crumpled paper on the floor - it was the pictures.

Niki had found them. Sabrin picked them up and straightened them out as best he could. He sat on the bed and stared at the image of the smiling Lyssa looking up at him and ran his fingers over her face.

"Now she knows, Lyssa. I doubt Niki would stay with me, child or not. Question is, will you?"

Sabrin wanted desperately to call Lyssa, but her time was later than his, so she would be in bed by now. He would have to wait until tomorrow evening. He did not want to upset her before she went to work, so calling her in the morning was out too. Sabrin put Lyssa's picture on his bedside table and vowed that one day, a new picture of both of them would grace this spot and it would be framed.

Sabrin finished cleaning up before getting ready for bed. He lay in bed staring at the picture of Lyssa. It was after 3:00 a.m. by the time he fell asleep. The next morning he was awakened by the phone. He reached across the nightstand to pick up the receiver. It was Paul.

"I wanted to check on how you are doing. I'm worried about you."

Sabrin gave Paul an update on Niki going to her parents’ and that he was going to call Lyssa that evening. It took Sabrin a little time to convince Paul he was okay, all things considered. The two friends hung up the phone and Sabrin once again found himself staring at the picture of Lyssa.

The day took forever to move into evening. Sabrin passed the time reading the play he had been sent and planning some redecorating. He had decided that come Hell (Niki being pregnant) or high water, he was going to get Niki out of his house at least. At this point, he doubted she would argue. About noon, he even decided it might be a good idea to get the locks changed. Niki had already done enough damage. He was not going to let her do any more to the house.

Finally, it was 4:00 and Sabrin hoped Lyssa was home and able to talk. He picked up the phone, took a deep breath and dialed.

It took four rings before Lyssa answered. Sabrin was so relieved she was home.

"Lyssa, it is so good to hear your voice."

"Sabrin, what's wrong?" He could hear the intense concern in her sweet voice. Just this made Sabrin feel better. He could not wrap himself up in her arms, so he wrapped himself in the sound of her voice.

"Niki knows about us, Lyssa. We had a fight and it came out during the course of it." He hoped she would keep talking.

Lyssa was silent for a few moments, taking in Sabrin’s words.

"Did the fight have anything to do with what was upsetting you the last time we spoke? Is it about what she wanted to talk to you about when we were in New York?" she asked.

~ Damn, she knows me so well ~ "Yes. Lyssa, I love you so much. I want you to know that my relationship with Niki is over. She's gone to her parents."

Lyssa knew something big had happened. More than just a fight. She was scared now about what he was going to tell her. Sabrin hesitated before he finally decided he would just have to say the words.

"Niki thinks she might be pregnant."

Her tone frightened him when she finally spoke. She had thrown up a wall. He could hear it clearly. "It’s your child, I assume."

"As far as I know." Sabrin closed his eyes and lowered his head. She was going to end it. He could feel it.

"Were you trying for a baby, Sabrin?"

"NO! I never wanted children! It was a mistake. An accident!" he exclaimed.

"You accidentally had sex with her and got her pregnant?” she sighed. “I'm sorry, that didn't come out the way I meant it,” she sounded very upset.

"I think it did, Lyssa. I was missing you. I was at a party and saw this woman who reminded me so much of you it hurt. I wanted you, but..." he could not finish and he was actually sure that finishing would have been a bad idea.

"She is not sure if she's pregnant?"

"The test was inconclusive. She goes back in two weeks. Do you want me to leave you alone until then, Lyssa?"

"Sabrin, I love you. But I do need to know what's going on. I'm glad you're being honest but I think I need some time to think about this. I'll call you next week."

Lyssa hung up the phone and stared at the picture of Sabrin on her mantle. She walked over to retrieve it and returned to the couch. Her mind was racing, trying to fully comprehend what he had said to her. She wondered if Sonny would be home. She needed to talk to someone who knew what was going on. She was jarred back to reality by the sound of her telephone ringing. She was not sure if she should answer it but decided to after the third ring.

"Honey, I wanted to call to see how you're doing?" It was Sonny.

"Are you psychic or something? I was just thinking about you."

Sonny did not like the way her voice sounded.

"What's wrong, Honey? Is it something to do with Sabrin?"

“Yes, everything to do with Sabrin. He just called. Niki may be pregnant,” she sputtered. The tears came now. She wished desperately Sonny were here to hold her.

“Oh, shit! Oh, Honey, I am sooooo sorry! Wait, did you say MAY be pregnant?” he asked.

“Sabrin said they won’t know for two more weeks. I just don’t know what to think about all of this.”

“I know, Honey. I wish I could be there for you. I can come this weekend if you want?”

“I want,” she told him.

"I'll be there Friday night. Will you be okay until I get there? I can take some time off work and come sooner."

"Friday's fine, Sonny. I think I need some time alone to think before I see you. Thanks for offering though. I'm so lucky to have you for a best friend."

Sonny decided to forego his usual retort. "Honey, you know I'll do anything for you."

The two friends hung up. Lyssa was still in shock over what Sabrin had told her. The tears that had started while talking to Sonny, turned into sobs. She buried her head in a cushion on the couch and cried until she fell asleep.

Lyssa decided to call in sick Thursday morning. She was in no condition to face anyone. Her eyes were red and puffy from last night.

Thursday was not good for Sabrin as well. He rose late, ate very little, stayed in and spoke to no one. The only person he wanted to speak to did not want to speak to him right now. He spent most of his time that day and the next that followed staring at his crumpled picture of Lyssa. He slept with it against his chest at night. He was sure Lyssa was going to reject him and he was not sure he would be able to take it.

Sonny arrived earlier than expected. He had tried to call Lyssa at work on Thursday and was told she was away sick and probably would not be in on Friday as well. It was shortly after 2:00 p.m. when he arrived at Lyssa's condo. As soon as he was in the door Lyssa broke down sobbing again.

"Sonny, I don't know what to do."

Sonny moved Lyssa to the couch and held her as she sobbed in his arms. He had never seen her like this before and never wanted to see her like this again.

"I'm here, Lyssa. Tell me everything now." His voice was gentle and soothing. Lyssa told Sonny everything. “You have it bad, don’t you, my Honey love?”

Sonny had waited for her to finish her story. She let the tears stream down her face as Sonny kissed her forehead. This reminded her of how Sabrin would do this after they made love and it made her cry harder.

“You have to decide what you’re going to do right now, Honey. You said he ended it with the old main squeeze, right?” Sonny asked.

“Yes, he said he ended it with her, and she was staying with her parents,” Lyssa reiterated. Sonny lifted her chin and looked her straight in the eyes.

“Do you love him?” Sonny asked in a very serious tone.

“Yes,” she sighed mournfully.

“Do you believe he loves you?”

“Yes.” She knew Sabrin did. He had sounded so hurt when he had told her about Niki.

“Then fight for him, Honey. Fight for him and stand by him. He may be as broken as you are right now. Do you think he would like to hear from you?”

Lyssa nodded her head yes.

“I told him I would call him next week-" she began.

"Don't wait Honey, don't wait. I'm going to get that smile back on your face so you don't call him sounding like you've been crying for the past two days." Sonny began to tell Lyssa about his most recent boyfriend. He had her in tears in no time, except these were tears from laughing so hard.

“That's better. Now Honey, if you don't mind, I think I'll head down to Giovanni's to get some take-out for us to have tonight. Does that sound good to you?"

"I won't wait up," she laughed.

As soon as Sonny had left, Lyssa picked up the phone. She took a deep breath and began to dial. The phone only rang twice when Sabrin answered it. Lyssa was shocked at the way he sounded.

"Sabrin, it’s Lyssa. Please just listen. I love you and I will be here for you no matter what happens. I need you in my life."

Sabrin was so relieved. He could feel tears of happiness streaming down his face.

“I want to see you. Can I come see you? I don’t care if it’s for five minutes. I need you. Can I come see you, Lyssa?” Sabrin asked. He sounded better but nowhere near normal.

“Do you think you should travel? Are you okay to drive?” Lyssa was worried about him driving since he sounded so bad.

“I can’t stay here. If you don’t come to me, I have to come to you. I’m going to call for a flight as soon as we hang up, Lyssa. Can I come to you?”

“Yes. Sonny is here too, but you won’t be staying in my spare room.”

“I love you, Lyssa. I’m on my way.”

“Let me know your flight and Sonny and I can come pick you up, if he’s back. He went out so I could call you.”

“I owe him, don’t I?”

Lyssa laughed. "Don't let him know that or he will get you to buy him a car."

The sound of Lyssa's laughter did wonders to lift Sabrin’s spirits. They hung up so he could make arrangements to fly to Chicago. He threw some clothes in a bag and called a cab. There was a flight that left in one hour and he was going to make it one way or another. He had changed the code for the alarm and locked the new locks before going outside to wait for the cab. Once it arrived, Sabrin called Paul on his cell phone to tell him the good news. Paul was tremendously relieved to hear his friend sounding so much better. He wished him a good flight and good luck.

Sabrin arrived at the airport with time to spare. He did not have to check his bag as all he brought was a carry-on and went to wait at the gate. He called Lyssa to tell her where he was and what time he would arrive.

"I'll be there to meet your plane," she assured him. She sounded like she was looking forward to seeing him and that was all he needed. When his flight was called for boarding, Sabrin took his seat, and promptly fell asleep, with his picture if Lyssa in his breast pocket, close to his heart.

His flight was not due in for two more hours, but Lyssa headed for the airport anyway. The flight was due in at 9:26 p.m., but Lyssa did not care. She drove slowly and thought carefully about what she was getting herself in for. An actor with an fourteen-year established relationship dumps pregnant girlfriend for brazen hussy who broke into his room at a sci-fi convention. The gossip rags would love this one. But if any of this got out, would Sabrin’s career be ruined? Would Niki be the one to tell the press?

Lyssa wished Sonny had come back from Giovanni's so he could be with her now. He would have distracted her from all of the thoughts going through her mind. There was still an hour to go before Sabrin’s flight would arrive and she could not stop thinking about how all of this would affect him.

~ His fans, God, how would his fans react to this? ~

She paced the airport waiting area for a while before stopping in the food court area to grab a glass of orange juice. Just when she thought she could no longer stand it, an announcement came over the PA system. Sabrin’s flight had arrived.

Lyssa all but ran to the gate. Sabrin was not the first to deplane, but he was one of the first ten. He looked exhausted but beautiful. When he saw her, he gently pushed his way past the people in front of him until he reached her. Dropping his carry on, he grabbed her, almost crushing her to him.

"God, I've missed you, Lyssa! Thanks so much for letting me come to you I-"

"Sabrin," she interrupted, a finger to his lips. "Shut up and kiss me," she ordered and begged.

He kissed her so hard, she was sure they were going to melt into one person. It felt so good to have him back in her arms. It took them several minutes to remember they were in a very public place and kissing for all they were worth.

“Do you have any other bags?" she asked, noting the rather large carry-on.

"This is it. I didn't want to be waiting at the airport any longer than necessary."

"Let's go then."

Lyssa led Sabrin to her car. It was a '95 red Saturn four door. Lyssa used a remote keypad to unlock the doors to the car and then unlocked the trunk so Sabrin could put his bag in it. As soon as they were both in the car, Sabrin leaned over to kiss Lyssa again.

"Let's go.” She pulled the car out of the airport parking lot to begin the trip back to her condo.

The drive seemed impossibly long to Sabrin. He wanted to touch her and make certain she was real. He needed much more than what he had had in the last few days - a crumpled picture.

"Damn!" he exclaimed, remembering one thing he had wanted to pack.

"What is it?" Lyssa asked, concerned.

"I meant to bring my camera. I need a new picture of you," he admitted.

"You were not supposed to have an old picture of me, you sneak. I knew as soon as I got home that time that you had taken two of my pictures."

Sabrin grinned. "And how did you know as soon as you got home, Lyssa?" he asked, knowingly.

She gave him a guilty grin. "I’m a telepath and you sent the image of the pictures to me in my mind...you know how. I looked."

Sabrin reached out and stroked her arm. "I looked every day of those long four months."

Lyssa smiled at Sabrin, "We're almost there."

It was less than five minutes later when they pulled up at Lyssa's condo. Once inside, Sabrin grabbed Lyssa around the waist before she could even turn on the lights. She turned around in his arms and they kissed passionately. Lyssa finally got the light turned on. She did not see any sign that Sonny had returned. She took Sabrin’s hand and led him to her bedroom.

"You look tired," she commented.

"Not anymore, Lyssa."

"You look like you need sleep, Sabrin." She caressed his face and with her other hand, pushing a lock of hair back. "And you need a haircut." Even as she said this, her eyes were glowing.

"All I need is you." He took her face in his hands. "I’m so sorry I did this. You have to believe this is the last thing I wanted. I don't want children, but I really don't want them with her." Sabrin hoped to see understanding in her eyes. Instead, her shoulders slumped.

"This is changing again. What are we now? This is all still so new. I've gone from weekend fling, to mistress to...I don't even know why I'm talking about this except that what you’re saying brings up something you may not want to hear.” She looked reluctant to finish. “I want to have at least one child one day."

"You do?" he questioned. "With me?"

"You are the man I'm in love with," she reminded him.

He looked at Lyssa and smiled. The idea of having a child with Lyssa did not sound bad. In fact, he thought it actually felt good to think of her carrying his child. He looked at Lyssa and kissed her gently. "I think I could get use to the idea of us having at least one."

"You're not just saying that, are you?"

"No Lyssa, this is too important. I have never had a desire to have kids but the thought of you carrying a little Berry..." He placed his hand on her stomach. "I like that."

Lyssa raised her eyebrows at him, but her jaw dropped. "Okay, I didn’t expect you to say that." She still looked thunderstruck.

Sabrin sat her down on the bed. "Hell, I'm not sure I was expecting that." He climbed on the bed as she kicked off her shoes and scooted further back. He followed her until he caught her and kissed her hard.

"I love you. I never want another woman again in my life."

They were lying in each other's arms on the bed so focused on each other they did not hear the door to the condo open. It was a little after 1:00 a.m. when Sonny had returned. He was in a pretty good mood after an interesting evening. He thought he heard something from Lyssa's room so he assumed she was still awake. He threw open the door to Lyssa's bedroom and announced, "Honey, I'm home". Sonny was shocked and more than a little embarrassed when he realized Lyssa was not alone. Lyssa burst out laughing as she and Sabrin sat up on the bed.

"Sonny, I'd like you to meet Sabrin. Sabrin, this is my best friend, Sonny." She was still laughing.

Sonny began to stammer incoherently.

"It's nice to see you again, Sonny. I owe you a lot. Thanks."

Sonny stammered out something that sounded like "You're welcome," and excused himself from Lyssa's bedroom.

"I have never seen Sonny speechless before," Lyssa told Sabrin, still laughing.

"And I think you're talking too much," he said, kissing her again.

"I'll have to stop that," she said. He nodded and kissed her again. "It’s a bad habit I have," she admitted. Sabrin sighed and reclaimed her mouth. "I really do have-"

"Okay, I give up. I'll say it. Shut up, woman, and make love to me."

Lyssa giggled. "All you had to do was ask."

Sabrin shook his head and sighed again, exasperated. He decided that maybe the direct approach would work. He got up, locked her bedroom door and began removing his clothes. Lyssa was almost drooling even before he had completely removed his shirt. His erection was apparent even before he took his jeans off, but Lyssa was sure she would climax just from the actual sight of it once he was nude. Sabrin climbed back in bed and began helping her out of her clothes. She mentally chastised herself for not having done that but the sight of him had been too enthralling. It seemed an eternity before he was finally inside her, but it was worth the wait.

Lyssa gasped once Sabrin was completely inside her. The feel of his body against hers was intoxicating. His kisses were intense and she was sure they alone could bring her to orgasm. He knew so well how to give her the most pleasure with a simple touch to her most sensitive areas. She loved being in love with a man who knew her body so well. It did not take long for her to be overcome by the rush of her orgasm.

Sabrin’s own release soon followed as he gave a guttural cry. Just this sound caused Lyssa to peak again. Once they caught their breath and were side by side, Sabrin kissed Lyssa’s forehead. He then pulled her tightly against him. “If the worst comes to pass, Lyssa, will you abandon me? I have to know.”

“If you stick by me, I’ll stick by you. I can’t promise not to get upset or angry, but I won’t go unless you throw me out.”

“That will never happen,” he assured her.

“Sabrin, there is something else that we have to consider, although I’m sure you’ve thought about this - your career. What will a scandal like this do to it? If Niki knows about us, baby or no baby she can make life hard for you.”

"I don't think there would be a scandal, Lyssa. I have never been fodder for the tabloids and I doubt they would be interested in anything I do. In the grand scheme of things, they have much bigger fish than me to fry," he reassured her. "Hey, a scandal might actual help. In show biz, they seem to boost careers rather than hinder them," he laughed.

"What about your legion of adoring fans?” she asked teasingly.

"I think the fans care more about Sirus than me," he smiled. "As long as I have you I can survive anything." He kissed Lyssa gently on the lips. "I haven't told you about the play, have I? I got the role in 'From My Balcony'. Rehearsals start at the end of the month."

"That's wonderful," Lyssa exclaimed.

"How happy are you at your job, Lyssa?" Sabrin asked her, looking very serious.

"I'm content, why?"

"I was just wondering how much I was going to be able to see you when I’m in New York. I can't stand being away from you too long, Lyssa. I just can't."

She stroked his cheek. "You'll see me. I’ll need help, but I can come for the weekends."

"What if that isn’t enough?"

"What are you suggesting?" Lyssa studied Sabrin’s face trying to get a hint as to what he was going to say next.

"Stay with me in New York and not just for the weekends."

Lyssa stared at Sabrin. She tried to say something twice but stopped herself to think about her response some more.

"Do you really think that would be wise under the current circumstances?" she asked.

"If you don't want to Lyssa, I understand," he said, although his features indicated otherwise.

"I'm not saying that, Sabrin. Don't you think we should wait until after the results next week? What if Niki tries to sue you or something?"

“She can sue me for paternity, but nothing else. We have a cohabitation agreement that spells everything out. The house will have to be sold but that’s fine with me. I live out of a suitcase most of the time anyway. If I could live out of a suitcase with you, life would be good.”

“Sabrin, I love you. I want to be with you, but I do think we need to take this a little slower just to make sure it’s going to last.”

“You have doubts?” he asked, looking hurt.

“More like fears. All I’m saying is we need to take this one day at a time. We have the time, we don’t need to rush anything.”

From the look he gave Lyssa, she could tell she needed to explain further.

"We need time to adjust. The whole time we’ve known each other we’ve been sneaking about."

Sabrin knew she was right.

"As long as you love me, I can wait. I'm looking forward to sharing my entire life with you, Lyssa. I want to take you places, have you meet my friends, everything."

"I want that too, Sabrin."

Sabrin and Lyssa fell asleep in each other’s arms after Sabrin had listed a few of the places he wanted to take her and a few of the kinds of cars he was considering for Sonny. Both had smiles on their faces as they slept.

The next morning, Lyssa was still asleep when Sabrin woke and ambled out of the bedroom. As soon as he stepped foot out, he realized he had never been here before and did not even knew where she kept her coffee.

“Good morning, ah...Mr. Berry...Sabrin?” This voice came for the kitchen table. Sabrin looked over to see Sonny sitting quietly with the newspaper.

“Sabrin is fine, after all, I still owe you a car.”

“What?”

"Lyssa never told you about that?" Sabrin asked. Sonny shook his head. Sonny had made some coffee and had two more cups out so Sabrin poured himself a cup and sat at the table.

"She didn't tell me anything about a car." Sonny had a confused expression on his face.

"When Lyssa and I first met, I told her I was going to buy a car for the person who helped her get into my hotel room. She told me you taught her how to pick a lock so I owe you a car." His grin quickly gave way to a more serious look. "Actually I probably owe you two for all of the help you’ve given us. I really appreciate your being there for Lyssa."

"I just want my Honey Suckle to be happy and you make her happy. I'm glad I could help."

"Honey Suckle?" Sabrin repeated, trying not to choke on his coffee.

“Surely you’re not going to tell me you haven’t enjoyed her sweet nectar?” Sonny had an amused and suggestive expression on his face now.

Sabrin looked into his coffee cup, smiling. “I guess you would be hard to convince not, huh?”

“Let’s put it this way, if there was a woman who could make a gay man straight, it would be my Sweet Honey.”

Sabrin smiled. "I can believe."

Lyssa now came out of the bedroom wearing her robe. She put her arm around Sabrin’s shoulder and whispered morning greetings before kissing him. Lyssa grabbed a cup of coffee and sat down with her two favorite men.

"Good morning, Sonny."

“Good morning. Now, Honey Bunny, why didn’t you tell me about this business about the car?"

Lyssa laughed, "You call me Honey Bunny and Honey Bunches and you have to ask why?"

Sabrin interjected, "You forgot Honey Suckle."

Sonny added, "And the Honey Pot."

Lyssa turned to Sabrin, laughing, "You see what I have to put up with?"

“Honey pot? I never heard that one,” Sabrin said, with interest.

“Just don’t tell him the line you said with it,” Lyssa warned Sonny.

Sonny looked at Sabrin and shrugged apologetically. Sabrin raised an eyebrow and said one word.

“Car.”

Lyssa gasped and glared at Sabrin.

“Honey, you know how I hate my broken down old clunker,” Sonny whined, pleadingly.

“Your car is two years old and a Lincoln Town Car.”

“But I don’t like the color,” he pouted.

“”Fine, but if you tell him, I get to tell Randy what happened to you at Six Flags Amusement Park,” Lyssa countered.

Sonny paled. “I can get the clunker repainted,” he said with an exasperated sigh. "Well, I don't know about you two but I'm hungry. I think I'll make some toast for us. You stay there and relax, Honey. I know where everything is."

Sonny went in to the kitchen and popped some bread into Lyssa's toaster. He brought out some peanut butter, jams, marmalades and honey, plates and knives.

"Since I don't know what you like on your toast I've brought everything out."

Sonny soon came out of the kitchen with a big stack of toast. He placed it in the center of the table.

"Help yourself everyone." He turned to Sabrin with the honey in his hand and smiled. "Why don't you dip your fingers in the honey pot?"

"Sonny!" Lyssa called out at him and threw her napkin at him.

Sabrin started laughing while Sonny turned to him and smiled, "As long as it's blue, I'll be happy."

"This is not fair at all! You’re ganging up and conspiring against me!" Lyssa exclaimed.

Sonny just grinned and cupped her chin lovingly.

"Not fair, you say? I can be reasonable, my Honey. You take the car and I'll bed him."

Lyssa's eyes went wide and though she could not see it, so did Sabrin’s.

"Deal,” she proclaimed.

Both men nearly choked.

Sabrin pulled Lyssa to him and kissed her long and hard.

"On second thought, Sonny," she gasped, "take the car. I'm going to keep Sabrin." He kissed her again.

"Isn't that always the way," Sonny sighed. "The good ones are always straight."

They all started to laugh now. Lyssa sat back up in her chair and they finished up the toast Sonny had made.

"How long will you be staying?" Sonny asked.

“I have to go back to LA in a week," Sabrin responded. They all knew why Sabrin had to return.

"Great, you'll have some time to spend together. I'll be out of your hair tomorrow."

Sabrin looked at Lyssa, with a sudden realization. “I can’t believe I’ve only spent a total of six, no seven days with you in the past five months?”

Lyssa thought that over, and nodded. “Seems like a lot more in some respects and a lot less in others. Will you stay the week? I have to work, but we will have the evenings and the weekend. You have to be there...Monday?” Sabrin nodded.

“If you will have me, I would love to stay.”

“Do you have to rub it in that she will be having you?” Sonny interjected with a mournful sigh.

That afternoon the threesome took in a performance at the Chicago Jazz Festival. The music was great but Sabrin thought the company was better. He liked being out in pubic with Lyssa without a disguise. He had noticed a few people looking at him as if they recognized him but no one approached him. After the performance, they headed to Giovanni's. Lyssa had explained the appeal of the restaurant to Sabrin but also mentioned that the food was good. Sonny stayed at the restaurant after they finished their meal while Sabrin and Lyssa made their way back to her condo.

Lyssa grabbed him as soon as Sabrin had closed the door behind them. She ripped open his shirt and pulled it forcefully from his body. Sabrin’s eyes went wide for a moment, but after that brief moment, her actions began to have a dramatic affect on him. He grabbed Lyssa to him, raking his fingers through her hair, he brought her mouth to his, kissing her savagely. Lyssa was still trying to get his clothes off. Sabrin was now pulling at hers. Somehow they made it to the couch, but they still did not have their clothes off all the way. This caused them to fall off the couch and on to the floor. Neither seemed to notice. Sabrin felt almost like an animal, mauling his prey as he kissed Lyssa fiercely. The clothing had finally been dispensed with. Holding her down, beneath him, Sabrin slammed into Lyssa with a force so hard it should have hurt them both, but it only added fuel to the inferno.

His thrusts were deep and hard and she loved it. Her frequent gasps of pleasure caused her breasts to heave, turning Sabrin on even more. He could feel the momentum building within her body until she let out a loud gasp as her body shook from the force of her orgasm. Sabrin kept going and going as they kissed ferociously. Her breathing was again short and choppy as her body once again filled with fire. Sabrin still did not stop, her orgasms becoming more powerful each time. Finally Sabrin climaxed with her.

Lyssa lay beneath Sabrin, gasping for breath. Sabrin’s chest was also heaving. After a moment of panting at each other, Sabrin began to laugh. Lyssa looked almost guilty as she started to laugh as well.

"Did you need a little something?" Sabrin teased.

"I'd hardly call that a little something. But, yes, I needed it and I got it good."

Sabrin looked flattered. "You're going to be the death of me, woman, but a sweet death it will be," he said and lowered himself down to kiss her again.

They kissed for a number of minutes before Sabrin moved off Lyssa.

"Why don't we get off the floor before you have a permanent carpet pattern in your back."

Sabrin laughed and helped Lyssa to her feet.

"Let's go to bed,” Lyssa suggested.

Sabrin agreed and went to start gathering clothes.

"Leave them,” she said as she took his hand and led him to the bedroom.

"What about Sonny?" he asked, although he was not putting up any resistance as to where she was taking him.

"Did you want Sonny to join us?" she teased.

"Ah no," he laughed.

"You think Sonny believes we just shake hands in bed?"

Sabrin laughed, still following her lovely bottom as it swayed its way down the hall to Lyssa's bedroom.

He released a sigh. "I don't think that for a moment. You know, you have one sexy ass."

Lyssa turned to him once they had entered her bedroom and closed the door behind them.

"Yours ain't too bad either. Now where were we?" She gave him a knowing grin as he reached for the lovely bottom he had just been staring at.

He squeezed the cheeks of her butt and kissed her.

"I love you, Lyssa," he smiled and kissed her again.

"I love you too."

They lay down on the bed with their arms around each other. Sabrin kissed her hard before beginning to make his way down her body. His kisses, licks and nips at her breasts were driving her crazy. When he reached the sweet spot between her legs, she was already in ecstasy.

"Now," he said as he looked up at Lyssa. "It's time to do some dipping into the Honey Pot."

Before she could protest, he had his tongue penetrating deep inside her. The only sounds she could make were gasps of pleasure.

It was as though Sabrin instinctively knew just how to touch her. His tongue was working magic between her thighs. He used his fingers to gently pull her labia apart, allowing him greater access to her tender flesh. She gasped at the sudden increase of sensation. Her breath became shallow and she was certain she would lose all sense of reality from the intense pleasure Sabrin was giving her. What caused her to lose it even more were the ravenous sounds he was making as he devoured her.

As his tongue penetrated her, her moans deepened and her back arched as he brought her to orgasm but he did not stop there. Her writhing seemed to encourage him even more. He could feel she was about to climax again when he moved his body up hers and penetrated her with his rock hard erection.

She grabbed at him as though she was a drowning woman and Sabrin had come to rescue her. He sighed as her nails dug into his back. His eyes lit with a primitive raging fire. His frenzy heightened hers. Wrapping her legs around him, she used all her strength to push him deeper inside her. She assisted in his thrusts, pulling him in harder, keeping him in longer. Sabrin was fighting back his need. He wanted this to last longer. This sweet torture, this exquisite insanity.

Finally, he felt he was losing himself in desire, he could hold back no longer. He came inside her as if a volcano were erupting from within him. His moans pushed Lyssa over the edge of delight as she too felt the intense pleasure of her orgasm. They collapsed in each other's arms, kissing passionately. It was a good thing Sonny was not in the next bedroom as he would have surely been awakened by the sounds of the lovemaking emanating from Lyssa's bedroom.

He may have wanted to join or even just watch. The idea did not bother Lyssa; after all, Sonny would not be looking at her if he did. She giggled at the thought and Sabrin gave her a quizzical expression as he collapsed beside his lover and gathered her into his arms.

“Something funny about what we just did?” he asked, still looking confused by her laugh.

“Not at all, I was just thinking of Sonny,” she said with a grin.

“Now?” Sabrin asked, now looking shocked.

“I was just thinking that I’m glad he isn’t here to hear or he may have been very tempted to join.”

"Sonny is a great guy and everything but I can barely handle you as it is," Sabrin teased. He kissed Lyssa on the forehead. The only time he kissed her there was after they had made love and that made it all the more special to her. He held her tightly in his arms. They both felt so content they soon drifted off into sleep.

They did not hear Sonny arrive back at the condo. He turned on the light when he entered the room and saw clothes strewn around. You did not need to explain to him what had happened. He picked up all of the items of clothing and laid them on the couch. Then an evil grin came across his lips as he grabbed Sabrin’s boxers and took them to his bedroom to throw in his bag.

~ This is better than a car. ~

The morning was a wonderful one. Lyssa awoke in Sabrin’s arms to the sound of his snoring. It was not the most romantic sound, but it was something she could definitely get used to. His mouth was open and he was being noisy, but he was the man she had wanted for years, he was in her bed, in her arms and a big part of her life. She wanted every part of him and if that meant snoring, then so be it. This was love and this was forever.

No matter what next Monday brought, Lyssa was going to stand by Sabrin. This man was a keeper.

Lyssa thought back to relationships she had in the past. There had been one or two times when she thought she had been in love but those feeling were not even remotely close to what she was experiencing with Sabrin. She sighed and laid her head on his chest when she heard a whisper in her ear.

"Good morning, Lyssa." Sabrin was awake. They shared a gentle kiss.

"How big is your shower?" he asked.

"Not as big as the hotel, I'm afraid," she sighed.

"That’s okay. Let's go."

"You are too much. I need some coffee and some food first. We should pick our clothes up from the living room too."

"You were the one who said we could leave them there."

"Not forever. Come on. Did you bring pj's?" she asked, sitting up and looking for his bag.

"I didn't expect to need any. We’ve never used them before," he complained.

They were getting out of bed, so Lyssa reached over and playfully smacked Sabrin’s ass. "That will not always be true."

Sabrin turned around and grabbed her. "Bite your tongue, woman. Better yet, let me do it."

Lyssa let out a laugh as Sabrin pushed her back on the bed and then kissed her.

"You think that's funny, do you?" he laughed and tickled her for a moment. Lyssa had been laughing quite hard, so when Sabrin stopped she was breathing heavy. Watching her breasts moving up then down was such a turn on for him.  As he began to kiss her sensuous lips, there was a knock at Lyssa's bedroom door.

"Honey, I don't want to interrupt but can I come in for a moment?" Sonny asked. The two lovers covered themselves with the bedding.

"Come in, Sonny," called Lyssa.

"My cab is here to take me to the airport. I didn't want to leave without saying goodbye."

"I thought you weren't leaving until later?" Lyssa was surprised.

"My work here is done, Honey Bunny. It's time for me to go home," he smiled. He turned to Sabrin and extended his hand. "Take care of her, okay." Sabrin shook Sonny's hand.

"I will but it’s not like you aren't going to see us again," Sabrin smiled. Sonny hugged Lyssa and they exchanged a kiss and said goodbye. As Sonny reached Lyssa's door, he turned back at the happy couple.

"And don't worry about the car, seeing my Lyssa so happy is more than enough. ~ Plus the boxers. ~"

“If you’re sure," Sabrin said, offering. Sonny nodded his head.

"I am. I love you, Honey. I'll call you when I get home to let you know I got there safe."

"Thank you so much for coming and making me feel better,” Lyssa said with an appreciative smile.

“I think the man in your bed did a lot more than I did. Boff him once for me. I’d do it for you.” Sabrin’s look of shock and Lyssa sweet laughter kept a smile on Sonny’s face his whole way to the airport.

They heard the door to the condo close. Sabrin kissed Lyssa and wrapped his arms around her.

"You're very lucky to have a friend like Sonny."

"I'm a very lucky woman in a number of ways," she smiled and kissed him, pushing him so he was lying on his back on the bed. She straddled his mid-section and gave him a mischievous grin.

"I thought you were hungry?” Sabrin asked.

"If Sonny wants me to boff my man for him, who am I to say no?" she laughed. She leaned down to kiss him again.

If the lovemaking was breakfast, then it was one of the few times when dessert was not better than the meal.

After, food was made and eaten and the dishes quickly cleaned up. Lyssa wanted to go get Sabrin some pajamas and Sabrin decided to humor her.

They headed out and went to a shopping mall with an old time mill in the center. The shops were not like the places in Beverly Hills and thus nothing like the stores where Niki would have shopped. Still, Lyssa was able to find some men’s silk pajamas for him. One pair in black and a second in smoky gray.

She handed them to Sabrin and smiled. "Let’s see if they fit." Sabrin held them up and looked back at her.

"I think they will, they look right and they are my-"

"Sabrin, let's try them on." Her tone was more insistent this time, but there was also something else there that he made a point never to miss. Already getting hard, Sabrin followed her to the men’s dressing room. This was an older mall and the dressing rooms were unattended. Lyssa slipped in with Sabrin close behind her. Before he got to the room, she turned to him.

"I'll be right back," she said after kissing him quickly.

"What?" He realized he had actually whined that.

"Get the pj's on. I’ll be right back. Be in room seven."

She did return almost five minutes later. She was still in her winter coat, but her pants could not be seen. Sabrin stood there in his black silk pajamas and wondered, until she opened her coat.

"Should I get them?" she asked, opening her coat to reveal a very sexy black lace bra and matching lace panties. Sabrin’s knees went weak just at the sight of her.

He pulled her into the change room by her coat and closed the door. He kissed her hard.

"I need to get a better look,” he said while he removed her coat. "Oh definitely." He kissed her again. She ran her hands over the fabric starting at his chest and working her way down until she came across a significant bulge.

"This silk feels so good," she moaned. Sabrin smirked at Lyssa and moved her against the wall of the dressing room. He pushed down the black lace panties until they fell to the floor. Lyssa liberated Sabrin’s erection from the pajamas as they kissed.

“There are no locks on these doors," Sabrin whispered in her ear.

"Do you want to stop and get dressed?" Lyssa offered, moving as though to go.

Sabrin grabbed her and pulled her back. "You are such a tease," he told her.

"A tease that delivers. Does that make me a slut, or just your slut?”

Sabrin was shocked at her words, or rather their effect on him. He could not even answer her in words; he braced himself with an arm on the wall and plunged into her. He locked his mouth with hers as he began his rhythm. She was trying to be quiet, but the feel of the silk rubbing against her breasts and his penetration was quickly becoming too much for her.

“Are you all right in there?” came a voice from the entrance of the dressing rooms.

Sabrin tried to sound as normal as possible, which was difficult since Lyssa was even more turned on by this close call. She kept whispering in his ear, "Harder, Sabrin, harder" as he was trying to speak.

"Fine. Thank you. I'm fine."

"Well, if you need any help-" the clerk said.

"Thank you but I'm fine."

Lyssa was biting down on her lip trying not to moan out loud. They could hear the clerk walking away from the dressing room. Sabrin did what Lyssa wanted - harder and deeper thrusts. She buried her face into his shoulder trying to muffle the sounds of her orgasm.

Sabrin grabbed her bottom and pulled her tighter against him with his next thrust. His desire ripping his mind from him. Her orgasm always caused her to tighten her hold on him and it drove him to the brink each time. But this moment was so incredible and this woman so sexy and delicious. He did not want to stop. He wanted to be inside her forever. She was licking and sucking on his shoulder. The feel of her mouth and tongue running over his body and the soft cries that escaped her mouth. He could not hold back any longer. He threw back his head and did his best to stifle his moans. The waves of hot passion left him shaking and spent as he came down from the power of his orgasm.

Lyssa was giving him an evil grin as Sabrin regretfully withdrew from her. "I think we’re going to have to buy these, but how are we going to explain the stains?" she asked, laughing.

"Maybe they won't notice," he laughed and kissed her luscious lips again. Lyssa picked the black lace panties up off the floor and put them back on. She then put her coat back on. She kissed him.

"I'll meet you at the cash register," she whispered before leaving the dressing room. Sabrin got dressed quickly. He studied the pajamas and did not think the stain was quite as noticeable if he folded them a certain way. He only had to wait a few minutes for Lyssa to join him.

The sight of her as she caught up with him caused him to smile. When she whispered in his ear that she had decided against wearing any undies at all, his eyes went wide and his breathing again became shallow.

She seemed to have a special talent for knowing how to turn him on and then turn him on again. Sabrin paid for their items, pushing her purse back as he did. Grabbing her hand, he pulled her out of the store and back to her car.

"I want to go back to your place and I want you to step on it."

"But there are so many things we need to do today. There's a winter festival being held close by and, of course, more shopping. We need to pick up groceries,” she teased.

"I'll sing if I have to," he threatened.

"Okay, okay," she laughed as she turned into the parking area for her condo.

Sabrin and Lyssa were holding hands when they came in the building. They shared a gentle kiss when the doors to the elevator slid open and Lyssa's sour neighbor walked out.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Growski," Lyssa said nicely.

"Good afternoon," Growski grumbled. They could hear him complain under his breath as he walked by them. "Well that explains all the damn noise!”

Sabrin and Lyssa got on the elevator. As soon as the doors closed they both burst out laughing.

Chapter Six

As they walked to her door, Lyssa grinned at Sabrin. “I guess my neighbors aren’t used to me having over night guests that stay in the same room as me. Something they’ll have to get used to,” she smirked. Sabrin pulled her from the door to his arms.

“I think they will, but does this mean you haven’t been with anyone in a while?”

Lyssa rolled her eyes at him. Pushing him away, she got the door open. “You wish,” she said and went inside.

“So, you’re not going to tell me?” Sabrin asked, following her in and closing the door behind them.

“Do I get a list of your past lovers if I give you mine? And is that really information that you want?”

Lyssa hung up her coat and reached out for his.

“I was just curious about what made you decide to break into my room.”

"Are you sure you really want to know?" she seemed reluctant to want to part with the details of her life before him.

"I’d like to know how I became the luckiest man on Earth."

"Okay then. There were a series of events in my life that brought me to your room starting a little over two years ago with a very bad break-up with a man I had been involved with for three years. My self-esteem was pretty much shot. I felt unwanted, undesirable..." her voice trailed off momentarily before she continued. "I had a series of disastrous dates that didn't help matters at all. Sonny was such a rock for me. He actually convinced me I wasn’t the one with the problem, it was the men." She smiled. "He came up with an idea, a way for me to prove to myself that I was desirable. He wanted me to choose a man I found to be extremely sexy and seduce him, but it had to be someone I would never see again after. I thought he was nuts but once Sonny comes up with what he thinks is the solution to a problem, he's relentless. It wasn't until I saw you were going to be in Denver that I started to think seriously about his idea. If you rejected me, I could come up with a million reasons why that wouldn't affect my self-esteem but if you didn't, I would feel wanted again. Now it's your turn, why didn't you kick me out?"

They were sitting on the couch as Sabrin grinned at her. "I would think that would be obvious. I'm a shallow, horny male."

Lyssa laughed, but looked disappointed.

Sabrin took hold of her hand and lifted her chin. "You turned me on, you flattered me, you intrigued me and then you did the unimaginable. You made me fall in love with you. I know they say that men equate sex with love. Maybe they're right. I know I enjoy it more with you than any other woman I have ever been with before. But there was more to it than that. I was terrified of losing you. I was terrified of never seeing you again. I didn't want that weekend to end. And when it did, I only wanted it back. I kept you're picture with me when I traveled. I would stare at it...often." Sabrin kissed Lyssa gently on the lips and whispered, "You are the piece of the puzzle that my life was missing for so long. You made me whole, Lyssa."

Sabrin wiped away the tear that was making its way down Lyssa's cheek.

"I love you so much, Sabrin," Lyssa said softly. "You brought me back to life and introduced me to a level of emotion I didn't know existed. Hold me and don't ever let go."

"I won't let go, Lyssa. I'll never let go of you," he said as he held her tightly in his arms.

They held each other for a long time. Just sitting together, happy with the knowledge they were both dedicated to this relationship. They fell asleep for a little while, both waking hungry.

“I don’t want you tired out from cooking and you said we needed groceries. Let’s go out for dinner.” Sabrin was rubbing her arm with affection.

Lyssa agreed, so they once again bundled into their coats. Sabrin wanted to drive so he could get a feel for “her city”. They went to a nice Chinese restaurant with booths so they could sit side by side. Lyssa had been here before, so she knew the place had good food. What she did not know was that someone had noticed the man in booth J-7 was a well-known actor, but the woman who was with him was not his known girlfriend. This person also just happened to have a camera.

They ordered a wonderful dinner of vegetable spring rolls, Tamarind chicken satay, Szechuan beef and broccoli, pan fried wrinkled string beans and spicy dragon noodles with Sake Sangria to drink, otherwise known as Special #6. To anyone that saw them they looked like a couple in love - talking, laughing, occasionally feeding each other with their chopsticks. It was a wonderful evening.

But it was the way Lyssa was pulling her chopsticks slowly out of her mouth and how she had thrown her leg over his that was having an affect on Sabrin. She also ate spring rolls in a way that made him swallow hard.

Lyssa touched him, kissed him and brushed against him often, and it did not go unnoticed.

By the time the evening of eating was over, Sabrin was near crazy with desire.

Sabrin had his arm around Lyssa's waist as they walked out of the restaurant. Once they were in the car they kissed for a number of minutes while it warmed up. Some condensation started to form on the window as the heat they generated came in contact with the cold glass. Thankfully the restaurant was not far from the condo so they were there in minutes and soon racing to the bedroom. Lyssa was first on the bed giving Sabrin a sexy smirk as he leaped next to her.

“You are the biggest tease I have ever met,” he told her, pulling Lyssa into his arms.

“You didn’t complain in the restaurant,“ she noted.

“It’s hard to complain while panting,” he defended. Lyssa laughed.

“You love it and you know it. Your eyes were shining and you were grinning like a Cheshire cat, kind of like you’re doing right now.”

“Well, this Cheshire cat is done smiling and I have no intention of disappearing either.”

“Not for a week anyway,” she corrected.

“Don’t remind me,” he groaned.

Lyssa pulled out of Sabrin’s arms and rolled over to her bedside table. She hit her alarm clock to on.

“We’re getting up early?” Sabrin asked.

“You don’t have to, but I do. Some people have to work for a living,” she teased.

"You sure you can't call in sick again?" he asked.

"No, I can't," she laughed and pulled him close to kiss him. Sabrin could feel Lyssa's hard nipples against his chest. Another reminder she still had nothing on under her clothes from their visit to the store earlier that day. He brought his hand to her breast tweaking her nipple through the soft wool of her sweater. They sat up for a moment so Sabrin could slowly raise the sweater over her head. His hands running slowly up her body while he did so.

Lyssa gave no resistance as Sabrin lay her back down and paused only long enough to remove his shirt that she had just unbuttoned. Lyssa ran her hands over him, running her fingers though his chest hair and teasing his nipples as he teased hers. His hands moved lower, undoing her pants and sliding a hand within. He lowered his mouth to hers for a desire filled kiss as his fingers found home.

She gasped through their kiss. Sabrin grinned and kissed her again.

“I love making you moan,” he told her and proceeded to cause her to moan deeply again by penetrating her with two fingers and rubbing against her clit with his other fingers.

She reached for his face to guide his lips back to hers. She slid her hands down his body until she reached his jeans. Sabrin withdrew his fingers only long enough to slid her pants off and remove the rest of his own clothing. When he moved on top of Lyssa and penetrated her, she let out another gasp.

"There you go with those sounds again," he said, thrusting into her deeply.

It took an effort for her to speak at all, but she managed. "Not moan...gasp, ahhhh," she sighed with pleasure.

"More to come...ohhhhhh." Words lost any meaning after that. The fire that was building between them, the depth of emotion and sensation made everything else unimportant.

He lifted her so he could take a breast in his mouth as he thrust into her over and over. Deeper and harder. Sucking her nipples until they too felt as though they were filling with fire. She gasped and grabbed at the bed sheets.

She grasped on to them so tightly she could feel her fingernails jabbing into her palms through the fabric. Sabrin released her breast from his mouth and reclaimed her lips. She wrapped her arms around him. Her moans were becoming more frequent as she came closer and closer to orgasm. He continued his deep thrusts until the fire within her erupted.

The fires of their passion soon consumed Sabrin and he too erupted within her depths. He rode out the waves of ecstasy, feeling as though molten lava pulsed through his body and into hers. This time the fire did not die out fully. It left a tiny spark within Lyssa.

Sabrin kissed her forehead, pulled the blankets over them and kissed her again. "Goodnight, my love," he told her, she responded in kind just before falling asleep in his arms.

Lyssa's alarm woke her up at 6:30 a.m. She turned it off quickly so it would not wake Sabrin. She began her usual morning routine of showering, putting on her make-up and getting dressed. She usually grabbed a muffin and coffee from a bakery next door to the building where she worked so she would not have to worry about preparing breakfast in the morning. Before she left for the office, she quietly made her way back into the bedroom to kiss Sabrin. He opened his eyes to see her smiling face.

"I have to go to work now. Go back to sleep," she whispered and kissed him again. "I've left a note on the table that has my direct line on it in case you need to call me at work. I should be home before 6:00."

The week took on a pattern that Sabrin was unfamiliar with since he had not lived with someone who worked office hours while he was not working at all. It had a strange feel, but was not wholly unpleasant. Before Lyssa got home Sabrin would order food to be delivered. Once they had eaten, they would talk for a little while, allowing each to better get to know the other. Eventually, they would fall into bed, clawing at each other’s clothes. They would fall asleep, exhausted after a hot and satisfying lovemaking session. The mornings and afternoons were, at times, rather boring but Sabrin did have time for channel surfing and calling friends.

Sabrin reached for his cell to call Paul. They talked for close to an hour as Sabrin filled his friend in on what had happened since he had called him from the cab days earlier. When Paul asked about the upcoming doctor's appointment, Sabrin let him know he was ready to face anything now that he knew Lyssa would be with him through thick and thin. They also talked about New York and the upcoming start of rehearsals for the play.

"Deborah and I will be in New York in March. I don't know the exact dates yet but we'll make sure to get tickets for a performance. It will be good to see you on stage again."

"Would you like to meet Lyssa?" Sabrin asked. He really wanted to introduce Lyssa to his friends and Paul was the perfect friend to start with.

"Of course I do, Sabrin. I want to meet the woman who has so completely captivated you. I'll let you know when we’ll be in New York so you can make whatever arrangements are necessary."

This call took place on Tuesday. By Friday, Sabrin was running out of people to call, but there were some movies on that he had not seen, so he was content. But when Lyssa came home, he wanted out of the house. They had dinner at another of Lyssa’s favorite restaurants that was wonderful, came home and made love until they were asleep.

The next morning, Lyssa awoke to feel a hungry mouth between her thighs.

Sabrin knew she was awake when he heard that gasp he loved so much. He looked up and smirked at her.

"Good morning." Before she could respond, he had his face buried between her thighs once again. The only sounds Lyssa could make were moans of pleasure. He loved pleasing Lyssa like this especially since she was the first woman who had allowed him any kind of oral sex for years. Her moans always drove him on to please her more, and the more he pleased her, the more she moaned. It was a beautiful cycle.

The cycle continued until Lyssa began taking in soft, sharp little breaths and then arched her back in a glorious orgasm. But one was not enough for him. Sabrin wanted her to cum at least once more. She delighted him by having two more climaxes in quick succession. Only then did Sabrin remove his tongue from between her thighs. When his eyes met hers, there was an animalistic fire in her eyes. She lifted up, grabbed him and rolled him on his back. Her mouth was on his erection so fast he barely had time to catch his breath.

She pumped his shaft with her hand while running her tongue under the head of his penis. Now his moans continued the cycle for her. She firmly moved her mouth up and down his shaft. Twice as he came close to orgasm she would squeeze his balls to bring him back down so she could continue. Finally he could hold back no longer as her mouth was causing such delight. He came in her mouth like a volcano erupting and Lyssa made sure to swallow every drop of the eruption.

Sabrin pulled her to his side as soon as he could move again. He kissed her forehead and held her close. They lay quietly in each other’s arms for several minutes, before Sabrin broke the silence.

"Long Beach or Santa Ana?" Sabrin said, rubbing a hand up and down her back.

"What?" she asked, confused.

"Where do you want to live? Or maybe Santa Clarita?"

Lyssa sat up and looked down at him. "What are you talking about? I live here."

"Yes, too far from me," Sabrin noted. "I want you closer. I need you closer. Don't you want to be able so see each other more often?"

"But 'more often' does not sound like what you're talking about."

"I want to see you as much as possible, Lyssa. A week here and a weekend there is not enough. I love you and I want us to be together."

"But what would be the point of me moving there now? You’re going to be in New York for five months. We have lots of time to talk about this." She kissed him softly on the cheek. "I do want to be with you too, Sabrin but there are other things that need to be taken care of first."

He knew she was talking about Niki when she said that and she was right. The upcoming doctor's appointment would determine exactly how much did need to be taken care of.

The phone rang, pulling the lovers out of their private world. Lyssa leaned over to answer it. It was her friend, Lily with rather disturbing news. Lyssa's face went white as a sheet causing Sabrin to become concerned. Lyssa hung up and rushed to her computer.

By the time she pulled up the site Lily had given her, Sabrin was standing behind her. 

On the screen was a page from an on-line gossip column. This page had very clear pictures of Sabrin and Lyssa at the Chinese restaurant they had gone to the other night. There were two pictures. In one, they were kissing while in the other they were feeding each other food. The headline read "Sirus warps to Chicago and makes new love connection."

Sabrin and Lyssa read the story that went with the pictures. Sabrin was much more upset about having the pictures of their evening shared with the world as it referred to the ‘mystery woman’ as a ‘home wrecking hussy’ amongst other choice names. Sabrin wrapped his arms around Lyssa and told her to ignore it.

"Ignore it? How do I do that? Our faces are plastered on the net and I'm the bitch that ruined your relationship with Niki." Lyssa was on the verge of tears.

"Hey, don't say that. That's not true and you know it. You are certainly not a bitch and my relationship with Niki was dead long before we met. Look at me, Lyssa." He held her face in his hands and looked directly in her eyes. "You have to get that trash out of your mind. If you let every bad thing written about me, you, us get to you, it will make you insane. You have to ignore it. The only thing that is important is that we love each other and we know the truth. Okay?" He kissed her firmly. Lyssa nodded her head but the words still stung.

Niki Edger was just about to leave to go shopping, when her girlfriend, Diane called to tell her to check her e-mail. When Niki did, she was tempted to pick up the monitor and throw it out the window.

Sabrin and his whore kissing in some restaurant in Chicago.

Niki would get him for this. She told her mother she was going to be gone for a while, jumped in her SUV and headed home. The fact her keys did not work in the gate and she was unable to get to the house to tear it up did not make her happy.

Sabrin was going to get it for this one way or another.

Since Niki had not been able to do damage to the house, she decided there were other ways to get even. She decided to head to Rodeo Drive and cheer herself up by making a few purchases on Sabrin’s credit card. She was quite happy he had given her a card on his account. She would enjoy maxing it out and sticking him with the bill. Her first stop would be the Armani store. She tried on a number of expensive items and chose three that, not coincidently, happened to be the most expensive. Niki was in for quite a surprise though when she handed the clerk the credit card. The clerk swiped the card then, after a few moments, picked up a pair of scissors and cut it in half.

"What are you doing to my credit card?" Niki yelled.

"I'm sorry ma'am but the card has been cancelled and the credit card company gave instructions to cut it up. Would you like to use a different card for your purchases?" she asked.

"No!" Niki said angrily and stormed out of the store.

The weekend was slipping away, and Lyssa still seemed worried about how the gossip story was going to affect their future.

“Niki will see it. Someone will send it to her or she’ll find it herself. That is a passionate kiss we’re sharing in that first one,” Lyssa lamented.

They were taking a walk in the cold since Sabrin was hoping this would clear her mind. So far, no luck. Sabrin turned and took hold of her shoulders. “Lyssa, she already knew there was someone. I love you and you love me, true?” he asked.

“Yes.”

He pulled her close to him and wrapped his arms around her.

"She is the past, Lyssa. You are my present and my future. Don't ever forget that,” he whispered.

Lyssa wrapped her arms around Sabrin and whispered back, "I won't."

They stood there for a few minutes before resuming their walk.

"There is a bright side to all of this," he assured her. "Our relationship is in the open now. We can go anywhere and do anything we want. Look around, Lyssa, at all of these people in the park. I can stand here and proclaim 'I love Lyssa Page' proudly for everyone to hear."

"And I can proudly proclaim 'I love Sabrin Berry'," Lyssa laughed.

"Ah there's my girl. I love that smile," he said and kissed her passionately in the middle of the park, not caring who might be watching.

Lyssa was feeling better after Sabrin’s foolish antics in the park. He stopped several people just to tell them he loved this woman. Most did not know who either of them was, but one young woman did recognize Sabrin and looked a little stunned by the whole thing.

They returned to Lyssa’s condo cold and in need of thawing. They decided a nice warm shower would be just the thing.

They undressed together and, for what must have been the hundredth time, Lyssa thought about how sexy Sabrin was, clothed or unclothed but unclothed offered so many more possibilities.

The warmth of the water felt good on their chilled bodies but the heat they generated together was what really warmed them up. They kissed passionately while the water danced on their bodies. Sabrin’s sensuous caresses sent a shiver up Lyssa's body. He had such a gentle touch when they made love. He knew exactly how and where to touch her to get the response he wanted and she loved it.

Doubt and fear were erased from her mind as Sabrin held her in his strong embrace. He kissed his way down her face to the nape of her neck. He kissed and sucked here. It took her a moment to realize he was sucking in one place harder than before. When realization hit her, she cried out in playful indignation.

“Sabrin Berry! Why did you just give me a hickey?” She gave him a swat on the behind and tried to glare at him, but the adorable grin he had on his face as he looked at her, made even trying to look angry with him, impossible.

“I wanted to give you something to remember me by. I leave tonight. I have little nail marks from you. I wanted to give you something.”

Lyssa wrapped him up in her arms. She had been trying not to think about him leaving. Since she had to go to work in the morning and Sabrin’s flight was at midnight, she would not even be able to see him off. He was planning on taking a taxi to the airport and she had agreed it was for the best, but she did not have to like it. Time to give him something more to remember her by, she decided, as she moved her hands to his nice round and very sexy ass. She pulled him closer and could feel his erection pressing against her. She kissed him hard and long before maneuvering herself into position against the wall of the shower. She wrapped her leg around Sabrin’s hip pulling him closer. He penetrated her with deep thrusts that again caused her to gasp. Their kisses were passionate and hot, almost desperate in a way, as they did not want their time together to end.

She loved the feel of him inside her. Moving in rhythm to the beat of their hearts. His hands moved over her and everywhere he touched was on fire. When he took a breast in his mouth, she moved to allow him easier access. She loved the feel of his tongue teasing her nipples. He kissed, licked and sucked them. This and his deep and powerful thrusts made her weak with desire. She was sure she was falling when she slipped over the sweet edge and experienced an explosive climax.

Sabrin came soon after Lyssa. They held each other for a few moments until the water in the shower started to turn cold so they both quickly jumped out and laughed. After they toweled each other off, they held each other and shared another incredible kiss. They gathered up their clothes and went back to Lyssa's bedroom. They could not get enough of each other on their last day together.

Lyssa pulled Sabrin’s clothes out of his hands and propelled him back onto the bed. Starting at his toes, Lyssa licked and kissed her way up Sabrin’s body. She nudged his leg apart and worked her way up to his balls. He gasped with pleasure as she took one in her mouth, tonguing it, gently. She fondled the other, moving her fingers over the sensitive skin teasingly. Sabrin had been erect by the time her tongue had reached his thigh. It was throbbing now with the need to be sheathed within her body.

Lyssa was not going to make Sabrin wait. She released him from her mouth and moved up his body to straddle him and lowered herself on his still throbbing erection. Sabrin grabbed onto Lyssa's butt and squeezed firmly. As she leaned down to kiss him, his hands moved up to her breasts. He kneaded her breasts gently, using his thumbs to play with her hard nipples.

Lyssa and Sabrin began to move together, slowly at first. Lyssa would squeeze him as tightly as she could as he pushed into her. He sighed deeply at the wonderful sensation. After several moments of the exquisite torture, Sabrin encouraged her to quicken their pace. He pulled her down, sucking, nipping and kissing her breast. The wonderful tingling from his mouth and his shaft filling her over and over again drove her into ecstasy. Sabrin grabbed her butt, driving into her harder and deeper as he too came.

Lyssa moved next to Sabrin. They were lying on their sides facing each other. Sabrin caressed Lyssa's face slowly.

"I miss you already," Lyssa whispered.

Sabrin kissed her softly and whispered back, "me too." They wrapped their arms tightly around each other not wanting to let go. He thought ahead to New York and hoped that seeing each other more frequently might lead her to agree to move.

He looked into her eyes and saw some of the worry returning. “Baby or no baby, I love you. Niki and I are over. I will be leaving for New York on Wednesday evening. I’ll put the house up on the market as soon as I get to LA.”

Lyssa took a breath and nodded. “Call me Monday and let me know the results, okay?” Sabrin nodded and kissed her again.

“As soon as things are somewhat settled, I’ll send you a ticket to come see me. When do you get vacation?” he asked.

“Planning my life already?” she teased. “Not ‘til June but I can reschedule if needed. I have seniority. I’ve been there for eight years. What things need to settle?”

“I have to learn the role. Takes some time and I’m a bear when I’m learning a new part. You don’t want to be there then.”

Lyssa caressed his chest. “You just need someone to tame the beast or give him another form of outlet.” She raised her eyebrows at him suggestively. Sabrin chuckled.

"Once I'm in New York you'll have to call me on my cell until I have a place sublet. They have a few places lined up for me to see so hopefully I'll have something arranged quickly." He kissed Lyssa again.

"Are you hungry? I can make dinner while you pack."

Sabrin nodded his head. After they were dressed, Lyssa went to the kitchen to prepare something special for dinner. When Sabrin had finished packing, he placed his bag near the door and then joined Lyssa in the kitchen.

"All packed?" Lyssa asked.

"Yes but the strangest thing, I think I'm missing a pair of boxers," he replied.

Lyssa laughed. ~ Sonny! ~

"What's so funny about- Lyssa?" Sabrin asked, suspiciously.

“Let’s just say it was cheaper than a car,” she told him and offered him a spoon to taste.

“Wow, good. What is it?” he asked, licking his lips.

“Chicken Marsala. I have the salad in the fridge, can you get it out?” Sabrin nodded. The whole kitchen smelled wonderful and it was making Sabrin’s mouth water.

The table was set, the food served and wine poured. The lovers dug in, enjoying every morsel. After dinner, Sabrin helped her clean up. The evening was drawing to a close as Sabrin called for a taxi. He made sure Lyssa had his cell number, home number, and even Paul Smythe’s number, just in case.

Lyssa made sure Sabrin had the paper with her direct line at work.

"Call as soon as you know. It doesn't matter what time it is," she assured him. She wrapped her arms around him and they kissed until they saw the headlights of the taxi pull up in front of Lyssa's building.

"I love you," Sabrin told her as he gave her another quick kiss.

"I love you," she replied.

He kept looking back as he walked to the taxi. The driver put Sabrin’s bag in the trunk. Lyssa was still standing at the building’s front door, watching him leave. Just before Sabrin got into the taxi, he called to her again. "I love you, Lyssa." She blew him a kiss. He got in the taxi and was gone. The tears were flowing now. Saying goodbye was getting harder each time. She knew it would never get easier.

Sabrin sunk down in the back seat of the taxi and stayed there, feeling sullen for the whole ride to the airport. On the plane, Sabrin pulled out the pictures he and Lyssa had copied from her earlier ones and the pictures they had taken this trip. He even had a picture of Lyssa lying on her stomach in bed, nude and covered only from the waist down. She was so beautiful and sexy. This flight, Sabrin did not sleep much.

He got home just after 3:00 a.m. his time and went straight to bed. The only thing was it was missing a woman who had never stepped foot in this house. And, mostly likely, never would.

Niki called Sabrin at 10:00 a.m., waking him up.

“Just get back for seeing your slut? Your pictures are all over the web. If I am pregnant, I’ll make sure to tell your child what a shit his father is,” Niki all but screamed at him just after he said hello.

“Nice to hear from you too, Niki,” Sabrin replied, caustically.

"Don't use that tone with me, you bastard. Do you know how humiliating it was to have pictures of you and your little whore emailed to me. How long was I gone before you jumped a plane to Chicago to see that bitch? You changed the locks and security code at the house.  You cancelled my credit card. What else do you plan on doing? Damn it, Sabrin why are you doing this to me?" Niki was shouting in the phone.

"Are you calling to remind me about the appointment or just to yell. I'll be at the doctor's at 3:00," Sabrin told her. There was no hint of emotion in his voice.

"You better be," and she slammed down the phone.

Sabrin cut the connection on his end and lay back down on his bed. A moment later he got up and got busy. He made some coffee and showered while it brewed. Lyssa was very much on his mind here and out of the shower. He did not like the slanderous story on the web or Niki calling Lyssa vulgar names, but then that was the point of using them. Niki wanted to upset him, but he was not going to be rattled. Today, Sabrin was going to pull Sirus out of the closest and wear him like a suit. When Sirus used the computer half of his brain, he was as unemotional as that guy on Star Trek with the pointed ears.  No emotion, no upset.

While drinking the awful coffee he had made, he called his realtor and made arrangements for the house to be put on the market. He then called to have movers come pack everything and put it in storage. Niki could get what she wanted from there. No, he would have her things sent to her. He was not going to punish her for not keeping his heart.

Once all the dirty work was done, he sat back and watched some sitcom reruns and laughed himself silly. At 2:30, the television went off and so did Sabrin Berry's emotions.

He drove to the doctor's office arriving a few minutes before 3:00. When he did not see Niki, he asked the nurse if she had arrived yet. The nurse indicated that Niki had arrived a half hour earlier to give a blood sample and was now in the doctor's office. Sabrin asked why they needed to draw blood. The nurse explained they were not able to get a sufficient urine sample so the doctor decided to do a blood test instead. She told him the results were in and escorted him to the examination room. The doctor would be there in a few minutes. As soon as the door closed, Niki walked over to Sabrin and slapped his face. She then sat down and did not say another word until the doctor came in. The doctor noticed the red mark on Sabrin’s cheek right away and knew this was not going to be a routine appointment.

"Good afternoon Niki, Sabrin," he dispensed with the usual pleasantries and decided it was best to go straight to the test results.

"I'm sorry Niki, but the results were negative. But you are still-“ The rest of the doctor’s comments were cut off by Sabrin reaching across the man’s desk and grabbing his hand to shake it, enthusiastically.

“Thank you doctor, that is wonderful news,” Sabrin told the older man, still pumping his hand. Sabrin could hear Niki start to boil over behind him. He had lost that unemotional edge, but Sabrin pulled it back out and waited for her to explode. At least he would not have to buy his way out of the doghouse this time.

“You! This is not over. I’m going to take you to the cleaners! You won’t have any money left for you and your whore!” she shouted.

“May I remind you of the cohabitation agreement, drawn up by your lawyer by the way, which we signed. It clearly states what we are both entitled to,” ‘Sirus’ told her. “I will forward your belongings to your parents’ residence. I wish you well, Niki. Good-bye.” He nodded at her and the doctor and walked out. Niki tried to chase after him, but there was the matter of the bill and a rather large nurse stopped her pursuit.

Sabrin felt like a huge weight had just been removed from his shoulder. He could not wait to tell Lyssa. He checked his watch. He knew Lyssa would not be home for another fifteen minutes so he drove to his favorite florist and ordered a dozen roses to be delivered to her at work the next day. When he finished at the florist, he returned to his car in the parking lot knowing Lyssa would now be home. He dialed her number and she answered on the first ring.

"Great news, Lyssa!" Sabrin exclaimed.

"She's not?" Lyssa replied.

"She's not!" Sabrin confirmed. "The doctor did a blood test that is 100% accurate. She's not and we're free! Oh, God! I wish you were in my arms right now."

"I can feel you holding me, Sabrin."

Sabrin sighed deeply. “I love you. I miss you so much.”

“It’s only been hours, you know,” she teased. “You’ll make it. I, however, am going to be a basket case in two days.” She laughed and he did too. “I love you and miss you too. Where are you? I hear cars.”

“A parking garage,“ he told her.

“Go home, Sabrin. Relax and have some cheeseburgers and beer. We can breathe now, so just breathe.”

“I’ll call you soon,” he promised.

“I’ll answer.”

Sabrin drove home but the first thing he did when he got inside was call Paul to tell him the good news. Paul was glad to hear from Sabrin. After he told Paul that Niki was not pregnant, he filled him in on how near perfect his trip to Chicago had been with the only negative thing being that story posted on the Internet. They agreed to get together before the end of the month for dinner and hung up. He was relaxing on the couch when he decided to check his voicemail. He dialed in to listen to the messages when his eyes went wide. There was a message from his mother. She had been shown the pictures of her son on the Internet with a woman and wanted to know what was going on. He hung up the phone and then began to dial. He knew he would have some explaining to do.

Sabrin took a breath and listened to the rings. His mother always answered on the third ring, if she was there. She did just that causing her son to smile at her predictability.

“Sabrin! Where have you been? I’ve been calling you for days, but all I get is that damned voicemail. What’s going on?” She sounded more worried than angry.

“I was in Chicago, Ma. I had my cell. You could have called it,” he assured her.

“You know I hate calling cellular phones and you...you didn’t have a phone to check your messages from even once while you were gone.” She had him there. “But that is not important. I want you to tell me what is going on. Where has Niki been and what are these pictures I was shown. They look recent.”

~ Here it comes. ~

“Niki has moved out by mutual consent. The pictures are current. Her name is Lyssa and I am in love with her,” Sabrin explained.

“So, is this one Jewish?”

"Yes, Lyssa is Jewish," he replied.

"She certainly is a pretty girl but that story they printed-"

Sabrin interrupted her. "I know, and you know, that Niki and I were living a lie for quite a while. I met Lyssa in August when I was in Denver and I fell in love with her."

"You’ve been seeing this lady since August and you didn't tell me?"

"After we left Denver it took me four months to find her again. We saw each other earlier this month in New York. When I got back to LA I told Niki it was over and she went to her parents’ house."

"And you went to Chicago to have your picture taken," she added.

"I love her very much,” he told her.

"And she loves you?"

"Yes, she loves me."

"So what else is happening in your life that you haven't told me about?"

Sabrin told her about the play he was going to be in and how he had put his house on the market.

"Is that everything?" she questioned.

"Yes, that's everything."

"Okay. Now Sabrin, when am I going to meet Lyssa?"

“Give it some time, Ma. I just found her. I don’t want to scare her off,” Sabrin teased. His mother “harrumphed” at him. “I’ve only been with her three times, Ma. Let me make sure I have her hook, line and sinker before you give her the third degree.”

“Three times? Are you telling me how many times you’ve gotten together with her, or how many times she’s been in your bed?”

“MA!”

“Since she’s Jewish, are you going to marry this one? I’d like to see my son married before I die and some grandchildren would not kill you.”

Sabrin closed his eyes and shook his head. Mothers never change.

“I’ll see if I can arrange for you to meet her soon, but Ma, with you in Arizona, Lyssa in Chicago and me in New York, it may take a while. I’ll call you, promise.”

“You had better."

Sabrin’s mother proceeded to get him caught up on family news but would periodically throw in a question about his relationship with Lyssa. They said their good-byes with Sabrin once again promising she would meet Lyssa soon. After he hung up the phone, he let out a sigh. That had gone a lot better than he had expected. He made a list of the things he needed to do before leaving for New York. It was tedious but necessary.

Lyssa went to work Tuesday a lot happier than she had been on Monday. All of that day she had worried about Sabrin and the test results. The flowers Sabrin had sent arrived at 10:00 a.m. and caused quite a stir.

"I didn’t know you were seeing anyone, Lyssa? Hmm, Sabrin...that’s an unusual name," Rhonda, the company’s receptionist, smiled coyly.

" I met him when I went to Denver. We're kind of dating."

"Kind of dating? Is that like being a little pregnant?" Kelly, the product manager, chided her.

"Okay then, we're seeing each other,” she admitted. She was glad her co-workers had not connected this Sabrin to the actor she had mentioned occasionally and that they had not seen the story on the Internet. "Now, if you’ll excuse me, I do need to get some work done,” she laughed. She really did not want to discuss Sabrin with them and they did not push her on it. Her co-workers knew she kept her personal life close to the vest, having never really discussed any relationships with them in the past.

Over the coming weeks, Lyssa found she was tiring much too easily, and not just physically, but mentally as well. She was not sleeping well due to missing Sabrin so much. She would lie in bed, wondering where he was, what he was doing and missing him terribly. They talked every few days, but Sabrin was still distracted. Rehearsals were going well and the play looked like it would open well. Lyssa should be happy, but she felt listless.

When Sonny called and asked to see her, she was overjoyed.

They stayed up late Friday night and talked the evening away, but he was worried when she looked so sad the next morning.

"Let's go out for lunch. There were all those billboard for a new cafe on Fullerton. Let's go."

Reluctantly, Lyssa agreed. The food was great and Sonny's animated company did cheer her up. She was actually smiling when they rose to go. As they made their way past other diners, an angry voice called out suddenly. "Oh my God! It’s that home wrecking bitch that was in those pictures with Sirus!"

Lyssa was horrified when she heard that and froze in her tracks. Fortunately, Sonny was with her and grabbed her hand.

"Come on Honey, let's just get out of here." Sonny sounded very calm. When they stepped out of the restaurant, Lyssa was relieved. She and Sonny started walking down the street when suddenly Lyssa felt a hand on her shoulder. The woman in the restaurant had followed them out. The woman spun Lyssa around and started yelling at her.

"You whore, first you destroy Sabrin’s relationship with Niki and now you're fucking around on him with this guy! You’re nothing but a slut!" she screamed. Sonny told the woman to fuck off and let them leave but the woman would not listen.

"Come on Honey, just keep walking," Sonny urged. Lyssa looked like a deer caught in the headlights of a semi. He knew he had to get her away from this woman. As Lyssa turned to walk away she felt a sharp pain on the side of her face. The woman had slapped her. Lyssa had been off balance when the blow connected, causing her to lose it all together and fall, hitting her head on the sidewalk.

"Honey!" Sonny called out. He knelt down next to Lyssa to help her sit up. "Oh my god, you're bleeding!"

At that point Sonny looked up to see there had been witnesses to this woman's outburst. Two of Chicago's finest had witnessed the whole incident and rushed over as soon as the woman laid hands on Lyssa. One officer was talking to Lyssa, telling her everything would be okay. They were going to get an ambulance to take her to the hospital since she had hit her head. The other officer was reading the woman her rights as he put handcuffs on her.

The ambulance arrived quickly and took Lyssa to Cook County Hospital. She was given a string of tests and her head wound, located in her scalp, was stitched up. An officer came to take both Lyssa’s and Sonny’s statement regarding the incident. When the test results came back, another doctor came in and asked the men to leave.

“Is something wrong?” Lyssa asked as the doctor closed the door.

“I just want to do a pelvic exam to make sure your fall did no damage there. At this stage of your pregnancy, the fetus is well protected, but-“

“What? Pregnancy?” Lyssa gasped and sat up, utterly astonished.

The doctor looked completely taken aback. She sighed deeply. “I thought the attending physician had told you. I’m sorry. Is this bad news?” the woman asked, unsure how to proceed. Lyssa looked up at her, opened her mouth to speak and could not decide what to say.

“Let’s get the exam done and you can think about it, okay?”

Sonny was just outside the door when a technician came along, rolling a strange looking device to Lyssa’s room. “What’s that?” Sonny asked the tech.

“It’s an ultrasound machine.”

Sonny’s eyes went wide.

Sonny decided he needed to call Sabrin to let him know what had happened. He was holding Lyssa's purse so he pulled out her cell phone and headed outside the hospital doors. He found Sabrin’s New York number on Lyssa's speed dial and rang it. He recognized Sabrin’s voice when the phone was answered.

"Sabrin, this is Sonny."

"Sonny, has something happened to Lyssa?" Sabrin asked. Sonny could hear the concern in his voice.

"Lyssa's in the hospital - Cook County. We were having lunch this afternoon and this woman went psycho on her and slapped her. Lyssa fell and hit her head on the sidewalk. The doctor said they're going to keep her at least overnight for observation to make sure she doesn't have a concussion. They've run tests but I don’t know-"

"Sonny, I'm catching the next flight to Chicago. I'll be there in a couple hours."

Sabrin was true to his word and entered Lyssa's room three hours later. Sonny was sitting with Lyssa, chatting. The head of her bed was raised enough for her to see Sabrin’s hurried entrance. Sonny rose and kissed Lyssa ever so gently on the cheek before discreetly leaving the room. Sabrin stopped him to shake his hand and give him his heart-felt thanks for taking care of Lyssa on his behalf.

"You were right, I shouldn't have ignored that gossip column," Sabrin said painfully as he sat in the chair Sonny had just vacated. "Lyssa, I'm so sorry."

"Sabrin, shut up a minute," Lyssa interrupted. She took his hand in hers and looked very seriously into his eyes. Sabrin paled.

"It's over?" he whispered, terror struck.

"Not by a long shot. Niki may not be pregnant, but I am."

"You're pregnant?" Sabrin asked. He moved from the chair to sit on the side of Lyssa's bed.

"They did some routine tests when I was brought in and told me I am pregnant. An obstetrician came in later to do an ultrasound. They wanted to make sure everything was okay because of the fall," Lyssa explained.

"You're pregnant!" he repeated as a huge smile came across his lips. "We're going to have a baby!"

"Well actually that's babies. The ultrasound indicated two fetuses."

"Twins? Oh my god, we're going to have twins!" He was beaming but, as he looked at Lyssa, he could see she was not. "Lyssa, how do you feel about this?"

"I don't know. I honestly don't know. I'm scared, Sabrin."

He leaned in to hold her and whispered, "I'm scared too, Lyssa. This is so new for both of us but we have each other. Our babies were created by our love. I know you’ll be an amazing mother to our children."

"And you’ll be an amazing father," she smiled. "We're having babies!"

They shared a passionate kiss. Sabrin put his hand on Lyssa's stomach and smiled "Our babies are in here! Damn, I am such a lucky man!"

Suddenly Sabrin let go with a loud laugh. Lyssa shushed him, reminding him they were in a hospital.

“Now, what’s so funny?”

“My mother called me while I was with you in Chicago. I told her about us. She wants to meet you and she was nagging me about grandchildren.” Sabrin beamed at Lyssa. “You’re going to make my mother very happy.” He kissed her again.

Lyssa blushed and took a deep breath. “Are things ever going to slow down between us?” she asked, grinning and squeezing his hand.

“Maybe, maybe not. Fast and furious has its good points. Now, tell me exactly what happened today. I want to know how the mother of my future children ended up in the hospital and who the hell is responsible.

"You don't want to hear about that." Lyssa did not want to upset him.

"Sonny's words were that some woman went psycho on you. I need to know what happened. I'd prefer to hear it from you but do you think Sonny would spill the beans for another pair of boxers?"

"Okay, okay," Lyssa laughed. "Sonny and I were leaving the restaurant when someone yelled out that I was a home wrecker. We left but she followed us out and decided she wanted to give me a piece of her mind. When we tried to leave, she turned me around and slapped me. I was off balance and fell. There were two police officers that saw everything and they arrested her and called an ambulance. I know Sonny is feeling guilty that he couldn't stop her but Sabrin, if you could have seen this woman, she was bigger than both of us put together."

"She was arrested? Have the police taken statements already?"

"Yes. They thought she would probably plead out on this since the whole incident was witnessed by the two officers."

"So you won’t have to go to court? You won’t have to stay in Chicago?" he asked.

“What are you planning?" she asked, suddenly tense. Sabrin lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it.

“What I should have done before now. I want you with me. I’ve wanted you with me and I was afraid to invade too much of your life. It has just been made clear to me that you are a part of my life and I am a part of yours. Come with me to New York, Lyssa. Stay with me. I need you.” He sounded and looked so earnest. But Lyssa was just not sure.

“You said you needed to be alone for this part of the job.”

“That lasts for about a week and then it over. It’s long over and I’ve been missing you. Haven’t you missed me?”

She sighed. “Of course I have, but- This is all moving so fast. I can’t keep up.” She looked tired, but the doctor had said for her to stay awake for another hour when Sabrin had spoken to him.

“I want you to think about it then. I’m staying until you’re out of the hospital.”

The doctor came in to check on Lyssa's condition. He asked Sabrin to wait outside the room while he examined Lyssa and asked her several questions. He was happy with the responses she gave and with the examination.

Sabrin approached Sonny who was still in the waiting room and sat down next to him.

"Thank you for being there for Lyssa, Sonny and thank you for calling me. Lyssa is so lucky to have a friend like you."

"They won't tell me anything, Sabrin. How is she?"

"Why don't you come in after the doctor finishes his examination. We'll find out what the doctor says and then I think you should go back to Lyssa's to get some sleep."

"I saw them take in an ultrasound machine. I know they can be used for different things but... is Lyssa pregnant?" Sonny asked.

"Yes, Sonny, she is. We're going to have twins," Sabrin was beaming.

When the doctor finished his examination, he called to Sabrin to re-join them. Sonny followed behind Sabrin to find out what was happening.

"It's looking good. Ms. Page, you aren't exhibiting any signs of a concussion, which is excellent. I want you to get some sleep now. You look exhausted. I'll be in to see you later and let you know when we can spring you from this place."

Sonny was so relieved. He kissed Lyssa on the cheek and wished them a good night and headed back to Lyssa's condo. Lyssa moved over in the bed so Sabrin could lie next to her. They quickly fell asleep in each other’s arms.

The nurse came in about two hours later to check Lyssa and shooed Sabrin out of her bed.

"I can get an orderly to bring you in a cot or you can use that chair, it reclines. You just keep yourself out of her bed," the nurse scolded Sabrin firmly. He gave her a sheepish grin and said he would use the recliner.

When morning came, Sabrin was snoring and Lyssa was grinning at this. He was loud, but he was here and that was all that mattered.

The doctor soon came to sign her release after one final check and Sonny arrived with Lyssa's car to take them all home.

"I guess I have to come clean with my parents. I haven't told them a thing. This is going to be quite a shock for them," Lyssa told Sabrin on the way home. They were in the back seat, holding each other.

"You can let them yell at me for getting you into this. You can be the innocent one." Sabrin caressed her cheek and chin, smiling with love.

"Who was the one who broke into your room again? I can hardly claim innocence."

"Honey bunny, I know your parents. All you need to tell them is the three words they long to hear – successful, Jewish and grandbabies. They'll be thrilled," Sonny laughed.

"I wonder if your parents know my mother," Sabrin joked. They all shared a much needed laugh.

Once they arrived at her condo, both men ushered Lyssa to the couch. Sonny insisted Lyssa have something to eat and headed into the kitchen to start preparing lunch for them all. Lyssa sat quietly on the couch. She did not even realize she was caressing her stomach. She was deep in thought about what Sabrin had said at the hospital about her going to New York.

She needed to call her parents and no doubt Sabrin wanted to call his mother. Would Rose want to talk to her, Lyssa wondered. She knew her parents would want to meet Sabrin and he had already told Lyssa his mother wanted to meet her. All this and going to New York with Sabrin too?

The handsome man she was thinking about came back into the room looking distracted.

“What’s wrong?” she asked him.

He sat down beside her. “Nothing’s wrong, just thinking. I need to make plane reservations, Lyssa. Are you coming with me?” He gave her a very serious look.

“You realize you’re asking me to get my job to grant me vacation time at the drop of a hat?”

Sabrin shook his head. “No, Lyssa. I’m asking you to quit your job.”

“What?” Lyssa, turning sharply to face him, looked at him irritated. “Quit my job! I can’t just up and quit! I’ve been there for eight years. That’s irresponsible!”

“You’re going to have to quit your job and leave Chicago sooner or later, Lyssa. We’re having twins. They’re going to need their mother full-time and I don’t want to be a part-time father. I want us all together.”

Lyssa turned again, staring straight ahead, repeating the words ‘twins’ and ‘mother’, not even realizing she had said it out loud. With a slight bit of hesitation, Sabrin sat down next to Lyssa again and wrapped his arms around her. He was relieved when she cuddled in next to him but she was still staring off into space thinking. Sabrin did not disturb her thinking but just kept holding her. Lyssa always felt so much better when Sabrin held her. At that moment she knew where she was supposed to be - in Sabrin’s arms and if that meant New York then that meant New York.

"I'll talk to my boss tomorrow to find out how much notice they want. I'd like to see my parents too to let them know. I need at least a week, maybe two before I can join you."

"What you're describing sounds more like three weeks." When Sabrin lifted her chin, Lyssa gave him a guilty look. "Lyssa, opening night is March 14th. I need you there. Will you be there?"

She thought for a moment. "I may have to head for my parents’ house that Monday, but I can make it."

Sonny called them for lunch, so they joined him in the dining room.

"You going to keep the condo, Honey pie?" Sonny asked, pouring Lyssa some juice.

"I'm selling my house," Sabrin reminded her.

"Are you saying you want me to keep it, or asking me to plunge into homelessness with you?" she asked.

Sabrin snorted a laugh. "We won't be homeless. Once I finish with this play, we'll go back to LA and pick out a house together," Sabrin told her.

"Can I come too?" Sonny asked, eagerly.

"Oh that's just what I need, Sonny. Me, Sabrin and three babies," Lyssa teased. Sabrin smiled as he could tell Lyssa was starting to become more comfortable with impending motherhood.

"Sonny, if you ever decide to move to Southern California you know you already have two friends there in Lyssa and me," Sabrin smiled. Sonny was touched that Sabrin thought of him as his friend.

"You better watch out. My company's head office is in Silicon Valley. I might just have to watch for any openings there," he smiled.

Sabrin smiled at this and Lyssa looked excited.

"Sonny, I would love it if we lived close together again. You could be Uncle Sonny to the babies," she said, trying to entice him.

She need not have bothered. The idea of living closer to his best friend in all the world was all the enticement Sonny needed. His human resources department would be getting a call in the morning.

Sonny and Sabrin cleaned up from lunch while Lyssa headed for the bedroom to use the extension in there. It was time to break the news to her parents.

"Hi, mom. Can you get daddy on the extension, I have some pretty big news for you both. You need to be sitting."

Mr. and Mrs. Page were very surprised to hear their little girl was dating an actor, but the news about the babies sent them into shock.

"Is he going to marry you?" Her father asked once he had accepted this turn of events.

"We haven't talked about marriage, daddy," Lyssa admitted.

"Then it's time to start," her mother said firmly.

"There's more that I need to tell you. I'm selling my condo and leaving Chicago. Sabrin is in rehearsals for a play that’s scheduled to run until the end of August. He wants me to be with him in New York. I said I would go. Once the play has closed, we'll be going to LA to find a house."

They were silent for a few moments before Lyssa's mother finally spoke.

"Lyssa, let me make sure I understand what you’re saying. You’re giving up your job, selling your condo and moving across the country to be with this man who has impregnated you. Is that correct?" her mother questioned.

"I love him so much, mom," Lyssa replied.

"Will we be able to see you before you leave?" her father asked.

"I would like to come visit you some time in the next couple of weeks. Is that okay?" She was unsure of their response.

"You know you’re always welcome, Lyssa," her father said. "Let us know when you’re coming. And when are we going to meet this Sabrin? We will come to New York if we have to but we want to meet him soon."

"He won't be able to leave New York for a while after this, so it may be necessary for you to come. The play has a five month run to start, but it may be longer if it’s successful.” Her parents agreed to come to New York and “give this man a chance”, but Lyssa was sure she could hear the unsaid “before we roast him alive for knocking up our daughter and not even talking about making her an honest woman”.

Lyssa was just lying there, staring at the ceiling ten minutes later when Sabrin knocked on the door.

“You okay?” he asked upon entering.

“My folks are a bit miffed that they had no idea any of this was going on. They want to meet the man who has ‘dishonored’ their daughter,” she told him with a sigh.

Sabrin looked stunned.

“Dishonored? I think I’m in trouble.”

"Not with me, you aren't," she smiled as she motioned him to come to the bed. "They think you should make an honest woman of me," she laughed. "They can be a little old fashioned about some things."

Sabrin lay on his side, next to her on the bed, resting his hand on her stomach.

"What if they don't like me, Lyssa? We kept our relationship a secret from them, now news of our babies, moving you to New York and then LA-"

"Don't worry, Sabrin. Once they meet you, they'll love you. They're a little upset now but they'll be fine." She leaned in and kissed him.

He kissed her, but he held back and she noticed.

"What's wrong?" she asked, puzzled by his lack of response.

"You're pregnant with twins and you just got out of the hospital with a blow to the head. You're very fragile to me right now, Lyssa. I don't think I can do this now. I want to, but I don't think we should. I can't hurt you."

Lyssa sighed. "You won't hurt me, but you may be right about waiting a little until my head feels better, but you realize that it will mean waiting until I get to New York before we'll be together again?"

Sabrin pulled her tight against him.

"You, my love, are worth the wait."

Lyssa and Sabrin had been lying in each other's arms for a few minutes when there was a gentle knock at the door and Sonny poked his head in.

"Honey pie, there's a Michael Smithson here from the DA's office to see you."

Sabrin and Lyssa got up from the bed and followed Sonny into the living room.

"I hope I'm not disturbing you. I've been assigned your file and I need to discuss a few matters with you. I live in this area so I thought it would be more convenient for you if I stopped by rather than making you come to my office."

"That was very considerate of you. Please sit down. Would you like something to drink or anything?" Lyssa asked.

Mr. Smithson declined and began to explain to Lyssa what was going to happen in the case against the woman who had struck her. As this was her first offense, she would most likely receive community service. The woman's lawyer had contacted Mr. Smithson regarding a plea bargain and he had wanted to talk to Lyssa about it. Mr. Smithson explained the offer made was for fifty hours of community service and completion of an anger management program. Lyssa asked if they could specify that the woman do her community service for the local food bank and a local battered women's shelter. Mr. Smithson said there would be no problem with stipulating that in the plea. He asked if they had given consideration to obtaining a restraining order, which he offered his personal advice against at this time as there would be much personal information regarding Lyssa that would be made public if she did. They thanked Mr. Smithson for stopping by and he assured Lyssa he would contact her once the court had finalized the arrangement.

Once the man had left, Lyssa told the men she loved most in this world that she was going to take a bath and then maybe sleep for a little bit. However, she wanted to go out to dinner with her two favorite men before they both had to leave her. The males exchanged pleased glances and nodded back at her. Lyssa kissed them both and headed for her bedroom.

Sonny smiled at Sabrin.

"I envy you. Being in love with someone as wonderful as my Honey Bunny and having her love you in return," Sonny told him.

Sabrin patted Sonny on the back. "And I envy you. You and Lyssa have been friends for years. You've had all this time with her and it seems like I’m always leaving her. You’ve known her since you were teenagers, right?"

Sonny grinned. "Right, since just before we left high school. We went to the same temple."

"So you’ve been there to watch her turn into the wonderful woman we see today and I bet you even helped her to become a lot of what she is. I know you helped her learn to pick locks." Sabrin could not help but smirk. "Sonny, tell me about the Lyssa you've know all these years."

"Are you sure you want to know?" Sonny laughed. "I'll only tell you about our friendship. Anything else you want to know about will have to come from her. Agreed?"

"Agreed."

Sonny started with how he and Lyssa had become friends. She had been one of the few people willing to be his friend back then, because of his sexual orientation. While Lyssa was soaking in the bathtub, she could hear their voices and occasional laughter but not what they were talking about. When she re-appeared from the bathroom, they stopped and smiled. She had an uneasy feeling as she closed the door to the bedroom behind her and crawled into bed. She could hear their voices but they were talking quieter.

Sabrin had made a reservation at an exclusive Mexican grill. He had to do a bit of name-dropping to get in, but it worked and they had a table for three at 7:30. He went in at 6:00 to wake Lyssa so she would be ready. He sat on the bed as she got dressed. Passing the mirror, she stopped suddenly and stared at herself. She was clad only in bra and panties so she had a good view of her midsection. She studied it for a moment.

“What are you doing, Lyssa?” Sabrin asked, moving closer so he could touch her.

“Trying to imagine just how much damage twins are going to do to my figure. I’m not going to be a slim woman anymore, Sabrin. You’re aim took care of that.” She turned around and looked him straight in the eye. “But did you have to hit two eggs?”

"I've always had good aim," he laughed "Don't worry about a thing. When I look at you I will always see the most beautiful woman in the world." Sabrin slid his arms around her waist and kissed her.

"Good answer," she laughed.

She finished getting dressed, thinking about her wardrobe as she did. None of her clothes would fit soon and she hoped they would fit again one day.

They arrived at the restaurant a little early but were seated immediately.

The food was wonderful and the drinks were good too. Lyssa was somewhat irritated to realize her new status meant no drinking for her. The men did not seem the least bit reluctant to tease her about this. Coming back to Lyssa's condo was sobering, since they knew only one of them would be sleeping here tonight. Both Sonny and Sabrin had late night flights, but they refused to have Lyssa drive them. One taxi was called for both men and, after a very teary goodbye, Lyssa was left alone.

Lyssa went to bed after watching the taxi pull away. She had a restless night as she missed Sabrin so much. To make matters worse, she was discovering that Mexican food and pregnancy did not go together for her.

The next morning, she went through her routine for getting ready for work and drove in. Instead of getting her usual coffee, she decided to have orange juice with her muffin instead. Frank Shirer, her boss, did not get in for another half hour so Lyssa ate while working at her desk, hoping he would not be late. Lyssa's co-worker, Elizabeth Bradshaw stopped by to chat. Elizabeth worked in the same area as Lyssa and had filled in for her whenever she took vacation or was sick for more than a day or two. She always did a good job. When Frank arrived. Lyssa rose from her chair and followed him into his office closing the door behind her.

"I have something important to talk to you about. Are you free now?" she asked, as she sat down in one of the chairs in his office.

"Sure Lyssa, what's on your mind?" He had never seen Lyssa looking so serious.

"I want you to know how much I've enjoyed working here. The company has been very good to me and I appreciate everything you have done for me too," she started.

"Lyssa, this sounds like a quitting speech."

"It is. I'm not going to leave you in the lurch though. I think Elizabeth would be an excellent replacement. She has a good grasp on the position and wouldn't need much training. If you require two weeks notice I can do that but I would prefer to leave sooner. I have so much to do before leaving Chicago."

"You're leaving Chicago?" Frank said with surprise.

"Yes. Many things have happened and I will be making a huge change."

Frank agreed this sounded huge, but respected Lyssa's private nature and did not ask for details. Elizabeth was eager to learn the finer details of Lyssa's job. The down side for Lyssa was that spending so much more time with her, Elizabeth began picking up clues as to what was going on with Lyssa's personal life. Sabrin would call her at lunchtime most days and she saw all of Lyssa's new odd behaviors. She seemed to get sick to her stomach at the drop of a hat, she was always tired and she was easily distracted.

Two days before Lyssa was going to leave, Elizabeth finally just came out with it. "You're pregnant, aren't you?"

Lyssa was stunned. She had been trying so hard to hide this fact but, in a way, it was a relief to have it out. To Lyssa's own surprise, she gave Elizabeth a giddy grin and said "yes."

Elizabeth started to pepper Lyssa with questions regarding her condition. Once Lyssa elicited Elizabeth‘s promise that she would not tell anyone, she told her she was expecting twins and that her due date was October 21.

"I won't tell anyone but I'm surprised no one has picked up on it already. You are positively glowing," Elizabeth remarked.

The workdays seemed longer now and the hectic evenings did not help. Lyssa had been busy sorting through her belongings trying to decide what to bring to New York and what to have the movers take. She and Sabrin had already discussed having her things shipped to LA and put into storage with his. She had found a realtor to handle the sale of her condo and he was bringing a couple by that evening for a viewing. He strongly suggested that Lyssa not be there when the prospective buyers arrived. She left as soon as the realtor got there and headed for the mall a mile away. Normally she would have headed straight to her favorite lingerie shop but, as she passed a store that specialized in baby clothes, she felt herself being pulled in to look.

“It would help if you two volunteered your genders so I would know what to buy,” she told her tummy. A sales woman overheard her and came over to help.

“Are you expecting?” she asked.

“More than I bargained for, yes.” Lyssa said with a laugh.

“You must have just found out. You can’t be very far along.”

“Just a few weeks, but I’m having twins so I found out a little earlier.” This seemed to excite the woman as she then rushed Lyssa over to a special section of clothing. Lyssa found two cute little sleepers that said ‘Twins...Twice the fun!’ Lyssa bought one in yellow and one in green just to play it safe.

Lyssa resisted the temptation to buy more. Buying the sleepers made this notion of pregnancy seem more tangible to her but she did not want to buy anything else alone. She wanted Sabrin to be with her and hear him say how cute something is or how adorable that will be. Lyssa continued down the mall to visit the lingerie store she had been heading for in the first place. She started to look at a few items. She wanted to have something special for that first night in New York - their first night of living together. She found a really sexy short-sleeved long robe with g-string in pink and ivory that she was sure Sabrin would love. Lyssa, hoping the realtor was finished showing the condo, headed home. She was feeling tired and still had to go to work the next day - her last day. All she could think of was getting some sleep.

The weekend had finally arrived and Lyssa was delighted. She could relax and get some needed sleep in between packing. Sabrin had firmly cautioned her not to over do it and to let the movers do the packing, but there were things she just had to see to herself. The condo was to be shown again today and she was told it had been shown three times while she had been at work yesterday.

By Sunday, Lyssa had completed the ‘I need to do it’ packing and was just stepping into the tub, when the phone rang. Wondering if it may be Sabrin, Lyssa ran to answer it.

"Can I show your condo? We're only about a block away?" asked the realtor.

Lyssa sighed. "I was just stepping into the tub," she told the man.

"You may want to consider letting the water drain. This is the third time this man will be seeing your place. He's very interested."

The tub was drained.

Lyssa got dressed quickly and prepared to leave as soon as the realtor arrived. At a little coffee shop down the street, she enjoyed a glass of milk and a piece of pie until she saw the realtor's car go by. When she arrived home she found a note from the realtor saying he would be calling her shortly as he thought the man was going to make an offer. Lyssa was excited at this news and sat by the phone waiting for the realtor to call. It was an hour later when he showed up at her door with an offer in hand.

"I'm sorry to not call first but I think you'll be very pleased with this offer so I brought it right over." He handed the offer to Lyssa.

Lyssa could not believe her eyes. The offer was for $200,000.

"Sold!" Lyssa exclaimed. The realtor had her sign a few places on the offer and told her it was basically in the hands of the lawyers now. Lyssa had already contacted the lawyer who handled the purchase to let her know to expect paperwork on the sale. The realtor left and Lyssa picked up the phone to call Sabrin to give him the good news.

"That's great! It means you’re one step closer to being mine," he chided her.

"I'm already yours. I'm carrying your children and they are already making my life hell. I have never been so sick in my life," she complained.

Sabrin chuckled. "I haven't had but two people look at the house, so count your blessings. We may have to live there for a while if it doesn't sell."

"I don't like that idea at all," she told him firmly.

"I know, and I know why. It's why we need to hope it sells. I want something with only memories of you and our family."

"Our family - now that I like the sound of."

"So do I, Lyssa. When are you going to your parents?" he asked. He was still worried about her parents’ reaction on the phone to the news regarding the babies and him.

"I'm going to fly out late tomorrow afternoon. The movers are supposed to be here early. I have to stop to see the lawyer to give her the keys to this place. I'll have to give her the New York address and phone number. There will be papers I have to sign. I can't believe I'm getting more than the asking price for the condo. It should be enough for a down payment on our new home, shouldn't it?" she asked.

"A down payment? But Lyssa, that's your money-"

"Sabrin, I want this money to go towards our home. I want to contribute to purchasing it. Please don't say no."

"Okay. We can discuss it when the time comes. You're amazing. I love you, Lyssa Page."

"I love you too, Sabrin Berry."

They concluded their call and Lyssa went to bed happy knowing she would be with Sabrin in about a week.

The movers came only an hour late, but they did not have much to pack up by that time, so things proceeded quickly. It was evening before she was in the air to Southern Illinois. Her father met her plane and seemed to look her over carefully before hugging her warmly.

“How far along are you?” he asked as they made their way to baggage claim.

“Almost six weeks, daddy. I don’t get another ultrasound for a while, but I will have to find a doctor in New York, since Sabrin will be there with his play until close to when the babies are born.”

Her father jumped at the mention of Sabrin.

“You’re sure about this man, child? An actor? How will he support you? Are you going to be home in a year or two with your children needing a place to stay? I’ve raised my children, Lyssa. Your mother and I are not raising yours,” her father said in his commanding voice.

“I have no intention of asking you to, Daddy. Sabrin is very excited about the babies. He wants me with him as soon as possible. It’s going to work out. Wait until you meet him, you’ll see.” Her father only grumbled at this.

Lyssa’s mother was also a bit snippy when Lyssa arrived. This caused her to lose it. Lyssa got up for the table, announcing she would be in her room until she had to leave or her parents decided they could accept the fact she was an adult and capable of making her own damned decisions. Once in her room, she realized shutting herself in her old room was not the most mature step to take, but it worked out anyway. Her mother was at her door within twenty minutes.

"Lyssa, can we talk please?" her mother said after gently knocking on her bedroom door.

"Come in, mom."

"Oh, Lyssa." Her mother sat next to Lyssa on the bed, giving her daughter a hug. "You know your father and I love you very much. You understand why we're worried about you? You don't tell us anything about this relationship until you find out your pregnant. What are we supposed to think, Honey?"

"I'm sorry, mom. It was a little complicated for a while but the complications are resolved now."

"Tell me about New York and beyond."

Lyssa gave her mother the address and phone number for the New York apartment and described it as Sabrin had done for her. Her mother started to realize this Sabrin Berry fellow was not the starving actor they had assumed. Lyssa remembered the pictures in her bag from when they met and from Sabrin’s visit in January. She retrieved them to show her mother so she could see how happy she and Sabrin are in the pictures. Her mother was surprised to see he was much older than Lyssa but she could also see how happy Lyssa looked in the pictures.

“How long had you known him when these pictures were taken?” her mother asked.

“Ahhh, some of them hours actually. Well, a day and a half, I think and the others were taken in January. We had a lot of fun when we first met. He knows Sonny. They really like each other.” Lyssa absently fingered the picture of Sabrin, as though she was caressing his face. Lyssa kept talking about him as she stared at the picture. She missed him desperately.

“He’s Jewish?” Ruth asked, making sure.

“Yes, mom. He’s a good man. He loves me and I love him. But this isn’t going to be easy and I really need your support,” she told her.

Ruth took her daughter’s hand in her own. “You have it, Honey.”

Lyssa sighed with relief. If her mother was satisfied, her father would be too. Lyssa threw her arms around her mother, hugging her tightly.

"Lyssa, you must be so tired. Get some sleep. I'll talk to your father tonight. Can I take the pictures? They'll help him understand."

Lyssa handed the envelope of pictures, save one, to her mother. Lyssa could hear the voices of her parents talking in the living room as she changed and climbed into bed. The voices were calm so Lyssa was certain her mother had worked her usual magic with her father. She drifted off to sleep.

It took a few days for her parents to fully come around, but it was a lot to assimilate so Lyssa gave them the time. The thing that really helped them to understand Sabrin was not a poor, struggling actor was when she rented a copy of the ‘Time and Space’ movie for them the fourth evening she was there and pointed out Sirus.

"There was a television series too? How long did he do this show?" her father asked.

"Ten years, daddy. You can still see it on television on sci-fi channels and in syndication. He has been in other movies, television shows and has done theater in the past too." Lyssa listed the others and noted how big or small Sabrin’s role had been. She then went on to tell them about his roles on Broadway. By this time, her parents were giddy with excitement. Their daughter was carrying the progeny of a famous movie star. And he was Jewish.

They decided they approved.

As Lyssa had brought all of her belongings that she had planned to take to New York with her, she had no reason to return to Chicago. Her flight from Southern Illinois to her new temporary home was Monday morning. She spoke to Sabrin briefly Sunday night to make sure he had the details of her flight. Sabrin was relieved to hear that Lyssa's parents now not only accepted their relationship but also approved. Sabrin had news for Lyssa as well. He had heard from Paul - he and Deborah would be arriving in New York later in the week and wanted to have dinner with Sabrin and Lyssa Thursday evening. Paul had also asked whether Lyssa would like to join them in attending opening night of the play.

She agreed to attend with Paul and his wife, but once she hung up the phone, everything began to seem surreal again. So much had happened in so short a time. Lyssa understood how her parents could get lost in all of this, there were many times when it all seemed too far fetched to be real to her. When Lyssa fell asleep that night, she had her hand on her belly, still trying to wrap her mind around the fact there were two tiny new lives growing within her.