Chapter Eight

Lyssa teased Sabrin the next morning about what a waste of money it would be for anyone to buy them pajamas.

"We wake up naked every morning. Did you wear them when we weren't together?" she asked as he was heading to the bathroom.

"I did then. But you're right. Now it would be a complete waste. However, if you see any maternity lingerie you like, buy it.” Sabrin showered and readied for rehearsals. He kissed Lyssa good-bye and promised to be home for lunch. Lyssa made him fried potatoes with onion, mushrooms, ham and cheddar cheese for lunch.

Lyssa served the meal to Sabrin, and it was well received. Sabrin told her he should be home early so they could get ready for dinner that evening with Paul and Deborah.

Lyssa had just finished drying her hair and was about to start her make-up when Sabrin arrived home. He seemed a little stressed from the last rehearsal but, as soon as he saw Lyssa, it evaporated. He kissed her neck so he would not mess up her make-up. Lyssa turned to Sabrin and kissed him tenderly.

"How was your afternoon?" she asked.

"Better now. Theatre superstition says it's supposed to be a good sign when the last rehearsal doesn't go well but it still makes me nervous."

"I know you'll be wonderful," she reassured him. "You better start getting ready for dinner." Lyssa finished applying her make-up before getting dressed. When she was ready, she studied her appearance in the full-length mirror. Paying close attention to her stomach, she wondered whether anyone would be able to tell she was pregnant.

 Lyssa came out of the bathroom to find Sabrin in their closet, dressed in a black suit and a collarless cream silk shirt. Lyssa thought he looked breathtakingly handsome.

"Oh my God," she whispered. Sabrin, startled, turned around.

"What's wrong? Are you all right?" he asked as he rushed to her.

"I'm fine. I just can’t believe how handsome you look in that." She was still staring at him in a dreamy eyed stare. Sabrin blushed a little.

"You are so sexy and you say that of me?" He grinned, took her by the shoulders and tried to pull her close, but she resisted.

"Wait, first, tell me I look fat."

"What?" he exclaimed.

"Well, I know I'm showing a little. It kills me that I'm only two months along and I am already. But for tonight, tell me I look fat and not pregnant."

Sabrin pulled her into his arms and, this time, she allowed it. He chuckled at her words. "Lyssa, my love, you look beautiful and if you look pregnant, then I'm happy. You are pregnant and I am thrilled that you are. I can't wait to watch the changes in you as you show more." He kissed her tenderly.

"Sabrin, I'm really nervous about tonight. They're your best friends. What if they don't like me?"

"You have absolutely nothing to be nervous about, Lyssa."

"I wish I had your confidence. Were they close to Niki? Are they going to see me as some sort of relationship-wrecking gold digger or something?"

"Lyssa, they will think no such thing. Stop that please - for me. Deborah and Niki were friends for a while but haven't been close for years. Paul and Deborah knew before I did that it was over with Niki. Even if they did have some misgivings, which I am not saying they do, once they see how happy I am with you they'll love you too." Sabrin kissed Lyssa again and held her tightly. "Now we better get going or we'll be late."

Lyssa was still nervous during the taxi ride to the restaurant. They arrived first and waited in the restaurant lobby for their dinner companions. They did not have to wait long as the Smythes arrived only a couple of minutes later.

Lyssa was impressed with how handsome Paul also looked this evening. Then she realized this was the first time she had actually seen him in person and smiled to herself. Paul was dressed in a dark blue suit with a light blue and white striped dress shirt and a blue tie. He looked very sharp. Deborah had on a burgundy dress that went well with her husband's attire. Sabrin was on his feet as soon as he saw them and took Lyssa in hand to greet his long time friends.

"You two look great. Thanks for meeting us tonight. I just had to have you meet the woman whose been keeping my pulse racing. Deborah, Paul, I'd like to introduce Lyssa Page." Sabrin put his arm around her and smiled down at her. Lyssa returned his glowing smile before turning to shake the hands of both of the Smythes.

"So you're the mystery woman who put a smile back on Sabrin’s face," Paul said with a charming grin.

Lyssa returned his grin with a smile of her own. "I'm so happy to meet you both. When Sabrin told me about your invitation, well, I know how much your friendship means to him and I am so thrilled you wanted to include me this evening."

"Lyssa, it’s Sabrin who is the lucky one. We only invited him because we wanted to meet you," Paul laughed.

"Oh, the abuse I have to put up with," Sabrin lamented and then laughed.

The foursome was shown to their table by the maitre d'. It was a private area of the restaurant that was used for celebrity guests so they could enjoy an uninterrupted dinner. The menu had a spectacular selection of food and Lyssa had a difficult time deciding what to have. Some items she would have normally loved seemed totally unappealing to her but she was able to make up her mind and was ready to order when the waiter arrived.

Deborah was sitting across from Lyssa, so she leaned forward to speak.

"Lyssa, tell us how you and Sabrin met."

Everyone else’s eyes around the table went wide. Sabrin chuckled while resting a hand over Lyssa to let her know he was going to save her.

"She broke into my hotel room at a convention in Denver, seduced me, and then spent the weekend with me," Sabrin answered with a completely straight face.

Deborah began laughing so hard she had to cover her mouth. No one else joined her.

"You can't mean you're serious?" Deborah sputtered. Everyone nodded.

"I was actually rather surprised he didn't throw me out of his room, but-" Lyssa began.

"Throw you out," Sabrin exclaimed. "A sexy woman breaks into my room with the intent of seduction and is dressed the part. No man could have refused you at that point. Right Paul?" Sabrin asked.

"Me? Of course I could have refused. I would have sent her packing at once."

"Good answer," Deborah smiled at Paul. "And you knew all of this and didn't tell me, Paul?"

"That's my fault, Deborah. I made him swear not to say anything to anyone, including you. My apologies to you but I'm sure you can imagine that things were complicated for a little while.” Sabrin paused for a moment. “Actually, I had seen Lyssa at the airport and if she hadn't broken into my room, I would have tracked her down and broken into hers. Right from that first moment I saw her, I knew she was the woman I had been waiting for all my life - just like Paul felt with you," he smiled and then kissed Lyssa gently.

Deborah smiled at Paul as he gently squeezed her hand.

"I'm not angry, Sabrin. But I am obviously curious. How did you resolve things with Niki?" Deborah asked, delicately.

Sabrin opened his mouth, But Lyssa beat him to the punch.

"It's not resolved. Not yet at least." Sabrin looked over at Lyssa, stunned but she just shook her head at him. "You know it's not over. She was mad as hell when you ended it with her. She's going to show up and want you to pay for that sooner or later, Sabrin." Lyssa moved her hand to take his. Sabrin laced his fingers with hers.

"I don't care what happens, as long as we're together," he told her firmly.

"I don't want her to ruin your career. I know how much it means to you. I don't want to be the one that does it in." Lyssa looked upset.

"Lyssa, nothing like that is going to happen," Sabrin assured her.

"Actually, scandal often boosts one’s career, rather than hurt it. I wouldn’t worry. He'll be fine." Paul smiled gently and reassuringly at Lyssa. Deborah nodded, getting her attention.

"Paul should know. We had quite a scandal of our own," she admitted.

"That we did," Paul smiled at Deborah before turning to face Lyssa. "I had been married for many years when my wife fell ill. I met Deborah when we did a play together. She knew what it was like to have a terminally ill loved one and offered me her support. We didn’t plan to fall in love but we did.  The tabloids found out about our relationship and we were fodder for a little while until someone more famous did something they thought their readers would find more interesting. Deborah and I have been together for over five years now. Show business is filled with scandals, Lyssa. As long as you do quality work and show up at the set on time, the studios and producers don't care and the public forgives and forgets."

"If there is any type of scandal, Paul and I will be there for you both, just like Sabrin was there for us," Deborah said reassuringly.

"That is very true. You've been a wonderful friend for many years," Paul said to Sabrin. He turned to Lyssa and said, "he was even my best man when Deborah and I got married. Now that is a favor I would love to return for you some day."

Sabrin laughed, turned to Lyssa, and asked, "can I tell them?" Lyssa nodded her head.

"Tell us what? Are you two getting married?" Deborah asked.

"No, that’s not it. Lyssa's pregnant. We're going to be having twins," Sabrin beamed.

Lyssa gave him a smile and then turned to flash one at both Paul and Deborah.

"I'm only two months along. We were both very shocked to find out about this pregnancy, but-"

"But we're both thrilled," Sabrin finished for her. He placed a hand over her womb and gave her a gentle smiled filled with love.

"Congratulations," both Paul and Deborah told them, once they recovered from their shock.

"I can't wait for my mother to meet Lyssa. We made a recording of the heartbeats of the babies that bowled her over." Sabrin put his arm around Lyssa's chair and rested his hand on her shoulder.

"You haven't met Rose yet, Lyssa?" Deborah asked.

"No, not yet. She's coming soon though," Lyssa told them.

"She's a wonderful lady," Paul smiled.

"And Sabrin will soon be put under the microscope by my parents too," Lyssa laughed.

The dinner was very enjoyable for all. The food was wonderful and the conversation was even better. As they left the restaurant, plans were made for the next evening.

"Would you join us for a light dinner before going to the theatre or would you prefer we pick you up as we go over there?" Paul asked.

"Dinner would be wonderful if the two of you would allow me to cook for you," Lyssa suggested.

"Lyssa's an incredible cook," Sabrin added.

"Dinner at your apartment sounds terrific, if you are sure it won’t be too much trouble," Deborah replied.

"It will be no trouble at all," Lyssa reassured them. "How does 5:30 sound with dinner at 6:00?"

"Perfect," Paul responded. "We'll see you at 5:30 tomorrow."

The two couples said good-bye and went their separate ways. Lyssa and Sabrin, holding hands, headed back to their apartment. They walked in silence for a few blocks before Sabrin spoke. "I told you they would like you."

Lyssa gave his hand a squeeze. "It’s you they like. Me - they are going to have to put up with. I'm kidding. They are very nice people. It’s still kind of strange having dinner with an actor I’ve seen on television and in movies for so much of my life. "

Sabrin "harrumphed" at her.

"So what, making love to an actor you saw is old hat now?" he asked, indignantly.

They walked home talking more about the dinner and Friday's opening.

"What should I expect from you tomorrow?" Lyssa asked. "Do you get nervous or jumpy or what?"

"All of the above," he joked. "It's the nature of the beast I guess. This may be the first time that the opinion of the critics takes second place. You will be the most important person in that audience tomorrow night."

Once they reached the apartment, Lyssa was feeling rather tired from the walk. They both changed and headed off for bed. Sabrin held Lyssa closely and watched as she drifted off to sleep. He smiled as he looked at her angelic face. He knew in his heart he wanted Lyssa to be his wife.

Sabrin had trouble sleeping. Lyssa woke to his thrashing several times during the night. Each time, she would touch him and rub his back, speaking calming words into his ear. Each time he would relax and fall back into a deep sleep. Lyssa smiled to herself. He was very worried about opening night, just as he had said he would be. Lyssa rubbed his back until she too fell back asleep.

When Sabrin awoke in the morning, Lyssa's hand was still on his back. He realized what must have happened and how she had been there to comfort him. In the past, Niki had often gone to sleep in another room and Sabrin had always awakened still feeling tired. This morning he felt a little anxious, but well rested. He knew his sleep could only be attributed to Lyssa’s care. He had no idea how he had been so fortunate to find her, but it was clear that letting her go was out of the question.

Sabrin carefully moved Lyssa's hand and began to study it carefully. He was imagining how it would look with a special ring on her finger. His mother had always hoped one day he would give her grandmother's engagement ring to his future bride and he wanted to present that ring to Lyssa. He quietly got out of bed to call his mother from the living room. She would be expecting his call as it was sort of a tradition that he called the morning a play opened. He dialed the number and she answered on her customary third ring. They spoke about the play for about fifteen minutes when Sabrin brought up the ring.

"I need a favor when you come visit," he told his mother.

"Anything for you. What would you like?"

He took a quick look to see if Lyssa was still asleep.

"I need you to bring your grandmother's ring with you when you come visit. With your permission, I would like to give it to Lyssa when I ask her to marry me," he told her.

There was silence on the other end of the line and Sabrin became worried his mother would say no.

"You love this woman very much, don't you, son?"

"Yes I do."

"You have always expressed a distaste for marriage. What’s changed your mind?"

"I’ve finally found the woman I was meant to be with. She's the one."

"I’ll bring the ring with me when I visit. I love you, Sabrin, and break a leg tonight."

Sabrin smiled as he hung up the phone. He went back to the bedroom and saw Lyssa sitting up in bed.

"I thought I heard voices," Lyssa told him.

"Just me on the phone. I always call my mother the morning a play opens." He sat on the edge of the bed and kissed Lyssa good morning.

Lyssa was about to lean into him and wrap her arms around his waist, but her stomach suddenly turned over and she had to go sprinting for the bathroom with Sabrin just a few steps behind. He went for a wet washcloth and a glass of water. He appeared behind her and massaged her shoulders until the retching spasms subsided. He wiped her brow and handed her the water glass. Lyssa sighed and went to the sink to brush her teeth.

"Not exactly romantic stuff, huh?" she said with a mild grin.

Sabrin put his arms around her waist and met her eyes in the mirror.

"You are going through this to bear our children. I could not be more impressed, proud or in love with you." He kissed her temple with tender care and again whispered in her ear how much he loved her.

He held Lyssa until he was sure she was completely recovered. Lyssa kissed Sabrin tenderly.

"Can you come with me later when I go to the market? I need to pick up a few things for dinner."

"Of course. Come sit down. I'll make breakfast this morning."

He walked with Lyssa to the table before heading into the kitchen.

"I'll make you my specialty," he laughed. "Burnt toast."

"Maybe I'll come help. I don't really want to be sick again today," she teased.

Instead of burnt toast, they had French toast with real maple syrup.

Lyssa did look a little tired after breakfast, so Sabrin told her he would clean up and sent her into the bedroom to rest.

Once the kitchen was clean, Sabrin sat down and began to read more of the book Lyssa had bought for herself. He looked up some of the needs that she would have in the early stages of this pregnancy and decided that a foot massage or back massage may be a nice thing to do for Lyssa right now. He would need to have his shower so they could go shopping before he had to leave, but tending to Lyssa kept Sabrin’s mind off worrying about the evening. He was getting so nervous he wondered if he was going to mimic Lyssa's trip to the bathroom this morning before it was through.

He took a really quick shower and shaved before checking on Lyssa. He was wearing only a pair of boxers when he came into the bedroom. Lyssa opened her eyes and smiled at him.

"Did I wake you up? I'm sorry," he apologized.

"No, you didn't. I wasn't asleep," she smiled. Sabrin sat at the end of the bed and stroked Lyssa's lower leg before picking up her foot and beginning the most wonderful foot massage Lyssa had ever had.

"That feels so good," Lyssa moaned. Sabrin smiled and began to massage Lyssa's other foot. It turned him on that Lyssa enjoyed this so much.

"Would you like me to do it some more," he asked, after finishing the second massage. Lyssa shook her head and motioned with her finger for Sabrin to come closer. When he did, she pulled him onto her, kissing him vigorously.

"Make love to me, Sabrin. Please make love to me," she pleaded between kisses.

"I will," Sabrin said in a voice heavy with passion. He could already feel the blood rushing to his groin. As he kissed her, Sabrin pushed open one side of the robe Lyssa wore to reveal her right breast. Using his tongue, he dragged it lightly across the skin of her throat and over the mound to her hardening nipple. He breathed hot breath over it for just a moment, looking at her to monitor her reaction. He moved his right hand under the cover of her robe and let it travel to the nipple of her left breast. It was growing hard in his fingers. Slowly, he lowered his mouth to her right breast, licking, sucking and dancing his tongue over her sensitive skin until her nipples were tiny little points, displaying her state of arousal. Sabrin used his face to push aside the robe, licking his way across to devour her left breast, feeling his own desire rising as he did. His erection pressed against Lyssa’s lower thigh and he could not help but move so it rubbed along her velvet skin. Lyssa was already moaning at the attention he was giving to her breasts. He loved the sound of her moans.

He untied the belt of the robe as he lowered his hand down from Lyssa breast over her stomach and between her legs. He could feel her wetness instantly. He massaged her clit causing her to moan deeply. He inserted two of his fingers inside her while he continued his massage. Lyssa reached for Sabrin’s face, pulling him towards her and kissed him hard. She lowered her hands to push down Sabrin’s boxers.

"Now," she gasped. "I need you now."

Sabrin removed his fingers from Lyssa and slid his hard penis inside her.

"God, yes," Lyssa moaned as she moved to pull him closer, tighter against her. She brought her legs up and pushed against his sexy ass, forcing him to thrust deeper and deeper into her. Lyssa kissed him again. Plunging her tongue into his mouth as he plunged his rock hard erection deeper into her. One of Sabrin’s hands had gone under her for balance. The other, he used to tease her taunt nipples. Lyssa's nails were digging into his back once again. Sabrin absently wondered if he would be bleeding on opening night from wounds their fierce lovemaking would cause. There was always so much heated passion when they made love. So much pleasure. So much savage ecstasy.

The intensity of their session was building up within Lyssa until it was finally released in a powerful orgasm. She called out, "Oh Sabrin! Yes! Oh my God YES!" as her nails dug even deeper into his back. But he felt no pain, only the incredible pleasure of his own orgasm as he exploded inside her, filling her with his cum. He remained within Lyssa until every drop was inside her lusciousness. He kissed her tenderly before withdrawing and moving beside her. He gently stroked her face, brushing her hair aside before kissing her again.

"I've never made love on the day of an opening before," he smiled. "Definitely something that needs to be a tradition for us. I'm usually nervous as hell but I have a really good feeling about it now, because of you."

"Maybe I can give you another really good feeling after." He might have thought Lyssa was just teasing by her flirtatious expression, but he knew her well enough to know this was more of a promise than a tease.

"I'll hold you to that. You feeling better now?"

Lyssa laughed. "How could I feel anything but wonderful after making love to you?" She grabbed his face and kissed him with passion.

"You keep that up and something else will come up and then you will not get out of this apartment for shopping," he warned. Giving her ass a nice squeeze, he kissed her forehead and rolled out of bed. Lyssa soon followed.

Sabrin got dressed while Lyssa had a shower. She did protest a little when he would not join her but finally agreed they really did need to go shopping. When Lyssa was dried, dressed and ready to go, she found Sabrin sitting on the couch reading more of her pre-natal book. She sat next to him, resting her head on his shoulder.

"Ready?" he asked. She nodded. The happy couple headed out for the market. Lyssa bought everything she needed to make a nice meal for Paul and Deborah, getting Sabrin’s input into their likes and dislikes. She was a little nervous about being with them by herself but they had been so wonderful to her that she was able to push those fears away. When they got back to the apartment, the light to the answering machine was flashing. It was the realtor from LA. There had been an offer made on the house that needed Sabrin’s approval.

Sabrin sighed. This was not good timing for such a call with his being distracted about opening night, but he did wish to get this behind him as it was a link to Niki.

Lyssa told him she would leave him in peace. She went into the kitchen to put the food away and begin preparing for the dinner this evening with Paul and Deborah.

Sabrin contacted his realtor and discovered this potential buyer was very interested, but needed time to sell their house. They were willing to pay a substantial amount over the asking price if Sabrin were willing to wait to close until their house sold. After hearing the offer, Sabrin was more than willing. The realtor promised to have the papers couriered out by tomorrow. Smiling, Sabrin agreed and hung up the phone. He went to help Lyssa, but found she had matters well in hand, so he decided to kiss her instead.

Sabrin told Lyssa the good news about the offer on the house. The extra money offered was nice but they were both glad the house was going to be sold and they would not have to start their new life in LA in that house. Sabrin ‘helped’ Lyssa in the kitchen until it was time for him to leave for the theatre. He kissed her before heading for the door.

"Break a leg, love," she told Sabrin as he left.

Everything that could be done in the kitchen had been done and now all she could do was wait while things cooked. She went to do her make-up and change into her new black dress, occasionally checking on the progress of dinner. It was very close to the time Paul and Deborah would be arriving when she had finished getting herself ready. She took one more quick look at dinner when there was a buzz over the intercom. She spoke to the doorman who then let the Smythes in to the building. Lyssa was waiting just outside the apartment door when the elevator doors opened.

Lyssa greeted them and led them in, taking coats and hanging them. Paul obviously noticed the wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen as soon as he entered, as he sniffed the air, raising his eyebrows with appreciation.

Lyssa had bought wine for the evening, so she offered them both a glass of the Bordeaux that she had intended for this meal of lamb chops and button mushrooms in a red wine sauce.

"Sabrin was able to find a nice place for you two to stay during your time in New York. This is a lovely apartment," Deborah commented as Lyssa handed her a glass of the wine.

"I was impressed with his choice as well. I love that kitchen. It’s neat, modern and well designed. Surprising from a man who needs help making coffee." Lyssa grinned, but her guests laughed freely. The fact Sabrin would not know what to do with a cheese grater if you handed it to him with the cheese, was well known.

The table was set just waiting for the meal to begin. They chatted in the living room for a few minutes before Lyssa suggested they move to the table as she excused herself to the kitchen. Paul and Deborah were very impressed with the wonderful dinner Lyssa had prepared. Their conversation was very unforced and natural, making Lyssa so comfortable it was like she had known them for years. Paul told some hilarious stories about Sabrin that had Lyssa practically in tears from laughing so hard. Once dinner was finished, Lyssa cleared the table and the threesome made their way for the theatre and the opening night of "From the Balcony".

Once they arrived at the theatre everything took a surreal twist. There were photographers requesting photo opportunities as many celebrities made their way inside. Lyssa had tried to move out of camera range when the photographers had wanted to take Paul and Deborah's pictures but Paul brought her in for each picture.

"Paul, how's it feel to have two beautiful women on your arms this evening?" a photographer called out. "Can you identify everyone for us please?"

"Of course, you are familiar with my wonderful wife, Deborah, and this delightful lady is Lyssa Page, the partner of a very lucky Sabrin Berry," he responded.

After a few more pictures, they made their way inside the theatre to their seats. They talked while they waited for the lights to dim and the curtain to rise.

The seats the threesome had to enjoy the musical were seventh row and offered a wonderfully clear view of Sabrin in his makeup and costume for his character. He did have one solo that was a father's worried lament for his daughter's future. His rich tenor filled the building and had the usual effect on Lyssa. She found herself shifting constantly in her seat as Sabrin sang.

"Are you all right, Lyssa? Are you feeling ill?" Deborah asked her in a whisper after Sabrin’s song had concluded.

Lyssa knew she was flushed and Deborah's question only made it worse.

"I'm fine. I just love to hear him sing. He has a breathtaking voice," Lyssa whispered back.

Deborah nodded and smiled, seemingly understanding what had not been said.

The production was marvelous and the audience rose in thunderous applause when the curtain lowered at the end. The cast received a number of curtain calls. Lyssa was filled with love and pride for the man she loved. After many members of the audience filed out, the threesome made their way backstage. There were friends and family members of many of the cast already there and Paul and Deborah introduced Lyssa to a few acquaintances of theirs who were waiting. It was not too long before Sabrin came out dressed in a black suit, white shirt and black tie. Lyssa had a huge smile on her face when she saw him approach. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.

"You were absolutely incredible," she gushed as she hugged him tightly.

Paul and Deborah each congratulated Sabrin on his wonderful performance. There was a photographer backstage taking photos and he asked Sabrin to pose by himself for a couple. A few minutes later the photographer was taking more pictures of Sabrin with other members of the cast before getting a few shots of Sabrin and Lyssa alone and with Paul and Deborah. Unfortunately, Paul and Deborah were not going to be able to attend the after-party as they had an early flight the next day to London. They both wished Sabrin well with the production before addressing more personal matters.

"It was wonderful to meet you, Lyssa. Take care of yourself and those babies," Deborah said as she hugged Lyssa. She turned to Sabrin and hugged him. "You're a lucky man, Sabrin, and don't you ever forget that."

"Believe me I won't," he smiled as he hugged her back.

Paul too hugged Lyssa, "Dinner was wonderful but not as wonderful as the company. We're both looking forward to spending more time with you."

Lyssa beamed, "Thank you so much for making me feel so welcome."

Paul turned to Sabrin and they exchanged a man hug. "You did great, Sabrin and I'm not just talking about the play."

Paul and Deborah then left the theatre to head back to their hotel. Sabrin pulled Lyssa close to him and kissed her.

"Come on, now we get to go mingle with all the beautiful people," Sabrin said with a bright grin. He was still very much on a high from the play and the wonderful reception from the audience, and Lyssa could tell. He took her by the waist and led her down the stairs so they could make their way through the crowds and out of the theatre. The party was to be held at a wonderful place five blocks down away. It was far enough away that a limousine had been secured for the headliners. Sabrin and Lyssa rode in a limousine with the well-known actress who had played Juliet and her equally famous boyfriend. Many pictures were taken of them all entering the limousine and just as many, if not more, were taken as they exited it and made their way into the restaurant.

Lyssa felt very out of her element for this whole production, but Sabrin just smiled and waved like he had been born for this and perhaps he had been. Many stars had come to this opening. Sabrin was greeted warmly by several people Lyssa did not recognize, but also by quite a few she did. Just as he and Lyssa were finding their seats, Linda Grace, a former model turned actress Sabrin had dated once upon a time, came over to congratulate him. He greeted her with a happy smile and a friendly hug. Linda looked very sexy in a tight teal dress, but Lyssa did not even bat an eye. Once Linda had gone her way, Lyssa nudged him and grinned.

“I was not flirting. It was over with her years ago,” Sabrin insisted.

“I know. It’s just so strange to be here and see this for real instead of in the pages of a magazine.”

The restaurant had a buffet set up with a marvelous selection of food. Sabrin filled a dinner plate with different items, while Lyssa took just a few things on a smaller plate to snack on. A number of people stopped by the table to congratulate Sabrin. Some of Sabrin’s acquaintances were not quite sure what to make of Lyssa as they had not heard about Sabrin’s break up with Niki so there was a little bit of whispering going on around them. When they had finished eating, Sabrin reached for Lyssa's hand and smiled.

"You've been very quiet. Are you getting tired?" he asked. "We can leave if you want."

"I'm fine," Lyssa smiled. "Just a little overwhelmed. This is so new for me."

"You're doing great," Sabrin reassured her. "And you are definitely the sexiest, most beautiful woman here."

They got up from the table and began to mingle for a while. Lyssa felt a little out of place as a number of people began to discuss various productions that had opened and closed recently. Sabrin could tell Lyssa was not completely comfortable and she was looking tired. After the first reviews were in (which were all incredible), he took her hand and kissed her tenderly.

"Let's go home," he whispered and led her to the doors.

"Are you sure you're ready to leave?"

"Yes. Besides we have a matinee tomorrow. This old guy needs his rest," he teased.

“Should I translate the word rest for sex in that statement?” Lyssa asked in his ear. Sabrin grinned and pulled her so he could whisper back.

“That’s one of the many things I love about you. You know what I want even before I say it. So did my singing during the play make you hot, my love?” he asked.

Lyssa took his face in her hands and kissed him with passion. “You know the answer to that question before asking. Take me home and make love to me.” She kissed him once more with growing desire, just as a photographer snapped a picture.

The ride in the taxi back to their apartment was sweet torture. Lyssa had her hands all over Sabrin and did not care that the taxi driver seemed to be enjoying what he was seeing in the rearview mirror. Sabrin’s pants were bulging severely from a desperate erection and Lyssa was doing her best to ensure he did not lose it during the ride.

When they arrived at the building, Sabrin pulled out a twenty dollar bill and gave it to the driver. Without waiting for change, they rushed into the building while the driver grinned about his twelve dollar tip. ~ Lucky SOB! ~ he thought about Sabrin as he pulled away. Once the elevator doors closed, Lyssa was rubbing against Sabrin as they kissed ferociously. Lyssa had already started to unbutton Sabrin’s jacket and shirt and had loosened his tie and Lyssa's dress was partially unzipped all before the elevator opened onto their floor. They hurried to the door of their apartment. Sabrin was fumbling with the keys as Lyssa was distracting him by licking and biting his nipples as he tried to get the keys in each lock. Once they were inside, Lyssa ran to the bedroom while Sabrin re-locked all of the locks on the door. As he went to the bedroom, he could see a trail of clothes starting with Lyssa's shoes and dress. When he arrived in the bedroom he had already thrown down his own suit jacket, tie and shirt and was undoing his pant. He smiled as he saw Lyssa laying on the bed looking so delicious. He dropped his pants and underwear while walking to the bed and lay next to her, pulling her into his arms.

"You seem to want something from me. Can I help you with something?" Lyssa asked, doing a very poor imitation of coy.

"I was hoping you could give me a place to put this," he said, pressing his erection hard against her thigh.

"I think I may be able to accommodate you," she said and rolled over, rising up on her knees to offer him a wonderful view of her very sexy ass. "I have something just a little small for you. It may be a tight fit."

Sabrin ran a hand over the silky skin on her cream white bottom. He pulled her thighs apart just a bit more, before snaking his fingers down to find this tight fit. Sabrin found her to be already quite wet and swollen with need. He came up behind her on his knees, caressing her sweet ass and pressed gratefully into her. This was the tight fit he had wet dreams about when they were apart.

Sabrin held Lyssa's hips as he thrust in and out. Lyssa reached back and was massaging her clit. She could feel his balls crashing into her butt as he thrust deeper and deeper into her. His moans always increased Lyssa's enjoyment. She loved to please Sabrin so much right from the very first time they were together. He erased so many bad memories of the insults she had endured from the man who was in a way responsible for her meeting Sabrin. Sabrin had certainly shown her it had not been her fault for the unsatisfying sex life she had had before.

Sabrin reached around her waist and leaning over her, slipped two fingers in to fondle her clit. He continued his hard thrusts with a deep even motion until his rhythm and fingering brought her to climax. The arching of her back and her high moans caused Sabrin’s groin muscles to tighten in excitement. He quickened his pace, thrusting into her harder and faster until the world exploded for him.

Once he had finished releasing his fluids into Lyssa, Sabrin gently stroked her back and butt for a moment before pulling out and lying on the bed next to her. She lay down and flashed him a beautiful, sexy smile. He reached over and gently caressed her cheek before kissing her tenderly.

"I love you, Lyssa," he smiled and moved closer, wrapping his arms around her.

"I love you, Sabrin." She kissed him gently before cuddling into his arms even more. He kissed her forehead as she closed her eyes and quickly fell asleep.

The morning papers all had wonderful reviews of "From the Balcony” and Sabrin’s performance which Sabrin read as he and Lyssa enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at a local restaurant. Later, Lyssa had a chance to see how review related his mood could be when a small paper printed a review that was not so pleasing a week after the play had opened. The producer had brought this review to the attention of the cast just after a performance late one evening. He was not terribly upset by the insulting review since the paper had a bad reputation and minimal circulation anyway. Sabrin, however, did not react well to the review. Lyssa noticed that for three days after that, Sabrin was quieter, a little brooding and that first evening, was not in the mood.

Oddly, it seemed that going to Temple that weekend helped. In addition, the candle lit evening was relaxing and romantic after, and the lovemaking was slower and tender.

Sabrin held Lyssa in his arms and watched as she fell asleep. She always had such a beautiful smile on her face as she slept. He thought a little about the next day and meeting Lyssa's parents. He was nervous about meeting them. He thought about how Lyssa had such a comforting effect on him. No matter what the problem was she always had the right words or knew when he needed to feel her arms around him and he always felt better.

~ My life has changed so much since I met Miss Lyssa Page, ~ he thought. ~ And I'm loving every second. ~ He smiled and drifted off to sleep with his hand resting on Lyssa's stomach.

The next morning was a beautiful, sunny spring day. Sabrin and Lyssa had a leisurely breakfast. Lyssa was going to drive to the airport to meet her parents at 1:00 while Sabrin was going to have to leave for the theatre around the same time. He would not be able to meet the Pages until dinner that evening. He had offered to take the day off but Lyssa had thought it best if she spend a couple of hours alone with her parents so they could quiz her and inspect the apartment to see how Sabrin was treating their daughter.

Aaron and Ruth Page were surprised to see Lyssa was already having to wear looser clothing this early in her pregnancy.

"Twins take up more room in me," Lyssa assured them. The sight of their beautiful daughter looking happy, loved and content, in addition to her expanding figure, caused her father to be struck dumb and her mother to be near tears.

On the drive to the hotel where her parents had a room, her mother asked, "You are happy with this arrangement, Lyssa? Living with him, but not being married to him?"

"He is a wonderful man, mom. Wait until you meet him. I know you'll like him. He’s at the theatre now, but he'll be home for dinner. I want you two to come then to meet him."

"Where will we eat, Lyssa?" her father asked.

"I'll cook, daddy. I know you like my vegetable soup. I started it this morning," Lyssa answered as they pulled into the hotel parking lot. Fortunately, the hotel was a short walk from Sabrin and Lyssa's apartment and the weather had become even nicer.

Lyssa dropped off her parents so she could drive the car back to the parking garage. She walked back to the hotel and arrived before her parents had gone up to their room to drop off their bags. Her father took them up while Lyssa and her mother waited in the lobby.

"Your father and I are still worried about you but seeing how happy you look helps a lot," Ruth told Lyssa.

"I am happy, mom. Happier than I have ever been in my life," she smiled as she hugged her mother.

As they walked over to the apartment, Lyssa pointed out some of the features of the area. A number of the merchants waved to Lyssa and she introduced her parents to the owners of the deli and the market where she shopped regularly. They arrived at the apartment building where the doorman welcomed Lyssa's parents warmly. Aaron and Ruth Page were impressed with the area and felt much better about their daughter living in ‘big, bad New York City’. When they entered the apartment, they were once again pleasantly surprised. They knew Sabrin was not a starving actor so they were happy to see a nice but not lavish apartment.

Lyssa had already purchased her parents’ favorite tea, so she heated a kettle and had them sit at the kitchen table. Her mother was impressed with the well-organized kitchen and how at home her daughter seemed to be there.

They talked some after the tea was made, but Sabrin was due home soon and Lyssa knew he would be famished when he arrived. She began to put the finishing touches on the soup and checked on the homemade bread she had rising. Her mother set the table while her father watched the news in the living room. Lyssa's face lit up with joy when she heard Sabrin’s keys working on the door locks. She dropped what she was doing and went to the door to welcome him home.

As soon as he was inside, Lyssa could tell right away from looking at him that the performance had gone well. She greeted Sabrin with a tender kiss.

"They're here," she whispered. "Don't be nervous."

Sabrin smiled as he and Lyssa walked hand in hand into the living room. Ruth Page had moved next to her husband, who had turned off the television when he saw Lyssa rush to the door. They were both standing in front of the couch waiting. Even though they knew Sabrin was older than Lyssa, it was still a shock to see their little girl with a man the same age as them. Lyssa smiled as she introduced her parents to Sabrin.

"Mom, daddy, I'd like you to meet Sabrin Berry. Sabrin, these are my parents, Aaron and Ruth Page,"

Sabrin reached out to shake Lyssa's father's hand. "I'm very pleased to meet you, Mr. Page."

"Please, I'm Aaron and this is Ruth."

Sabrin shook hands with Ruth.

They sat on the couch silently for a few moments until Lyssa's father spoke.

"You seem to be doing quite well for an actor," he said. Lyssa cringed.

"I've been very lucky in my career. I make a very comfortable living," Sabrin answered.

“The life of an actor – there must be times when you find yourself out of work. What then?” Lyssa’s father questioned. Lyssa cringed again.

“The series I did is still aired daily around the world and has been since production ended. The residuals from that are a healthy chunk of what I earn in a year. Plus, I’ve got savings and investments to make sure Lyssa and the babies will want for nothing.”

"Ruth and I have been married for 33 years now. Have you ever been married, Sabrin?" Mr. Page asked.

"No, I haven't," he responded.

"I see. Why? Do you have commitment problems or something?" Mr. Page pressed on.

"No, I don't have a problem making commitments. I am very committed to Lyssa. In the past I have had long term relationships but marriage was not contemplated for either."

"I see. How long did these relationships last?"

"One was for four years and the other for over fourteen," Sabrin answered without hesitating.

"I see, four and fourteen years," Aaron repeated. "Why didn't you marry either of them?"

"Daddy, that's enough," Lyssa interjected. Sabrin smiled at Lyssa and squeezed her hand.

"I don't mind answering your father's questions, Lyssa. At the time I wasn't comfortable with the idea of marriage. Using hindsight though, I believe a part of me knew I hadn't met the right woman yet," Sabrin responded showing no hint of discomfort over the question.

"Lyssa, you better check on dinner," her mother prodded Lyssa to go to the kitchen as her father prepared to ask Sabrin another question.

"And what about Lyssa?" Aaron quizzed.

Sabrin replied softly as he did not want Lyssa to hear his reply. "I love Lyssa more than anything. She is the right woman for me. My mother will be arriving on Monday and she's bringing an engagement ring that belonged to my great-grandmother with her. I am going to ask Lyssa to marry me once I have the ring, if you approve. If we can't have your blessing-"

"You have it," Aaron interrupted. "It's obvious to both of us that you love our daughter very much. You answered some pretty tough questions without hesitation and most importantly, we've never seen Lyssa happier. She doesn't know you are planning to propose?"

"No, I want surprise her," Sabrin grinned with eagerness.

"Your secret is safe with us," Ruth replied.

Sabrin sighed inwardly. He had expected something very similar to this inquiry, so he had been ready for it. The questions that followed were much easier. Where were they going to live after the play? Would he be home for Lyssa to help raise the babies? Did they plan on introducing the babies to their Jewish heritage?

These were questions Sabrin had no hesitation about answering. Finally, Lyssa called them all in to the dining room for dinner. The soup she had prepared was wonderful. The fresh bread was piping hot and, with real butter, it was to die for. She had also made a wonderful apple pie for dessert. Everyone was delighted with the dinner and the pie. Lyssa seemed to enjoy playing hostess and she did it well, Sabrin noted. Her parents noted how attentive Sabrin was to their daughter. He helped wherever he could and spoke to her with respect. There were many times during the evening that Ruth and Aaron exchanged meaningful, but approving glances.

After dinner Sabrin helped Lyssa with the dishes while her parents relaxed on the couch.

"I'm sorry about my father's interrogation," Lyssa said.

"You don't have to apologize, Lyssa. He loves you very much. I'm just glad I passed," he laughed before kissing Lyssa.

They joined the Pages and talked for quite a while. Sabrin made sure they would be in the city long enough to come to a performance of ‘From the Balcony’. Soon they headed back to their hotel, leaving Sabrin and Lyssa alone. They both let out a sigh of relief that everything had gone well. Sabrin was especially happy he had received the blessing of the Pages.

Since Rose would be arriving the next afternoon, Lyssa went to the guest room to make sure all was in order there. She had washed sheets and freshened towels in the guest bathroom, but she went in to dust and fluff the pillows on the bed.

"Nervous?" Sabrin asked from the doorway of the room.

Lyssa released her hold on the pillow with a guilty expression on her face.

"Me? Nervous? No," she said in a voice that was not the least bit convincing. With a defeated look, Lyssa sunk down on the bed she had just straightened. "What if she doesn't like me?"

Sabrin crossed the room and took hold of her shoulders. "My mother is going to love you. You’re beautiful, smart, Jewish, and making her a grandmother when she was giving up hope. There is no way you can miss, Lyssa. But if she hates you, which she won't, it will make no difference to me. I love you. Nothing will change that. Besides I can be a hard ass too." He pulled her to her feet to kiss her, but Lyssa covered her mouth and ran to the bathroom. Sabrin decided that nerves must make her morning sickness worse as he followed behind to offer her help.

They had established quite a routine for when Lyssa was sick. Sabrin had everything prepared quickly - wet cloth, toothbrush ready to go and anything else he could think of. He helped Lyssa up and, when she had finished brushing her teeth, he took her in his arms and kissed her.

"You look tired," Sabrin observed. "Let's go to bed. It's been a long day." He took Lyssa's hand and led her to the bedroom. She climbed into bed while Sabrin checked the doors and windows and turned off the lights of the apartment. By the time Sabrin climbed into bed next to her, Lyssa was already asleep. Sabrin wrapped his arms around her while trying to decide how and when he should propose to Lyssa. He was a little nervous but it was a good nervous. Soon he too drifted off to sleep.