Chapter Two Hundred and Seven
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�I�m never going to be ready in time!� Lissa looked frantic as she ran from one room to the other, not remember what she was looking for. �I still have to do my hair...my makeup.�
Kristin and IreLyn looked at each other and giggled. Out of all of them, Lissa had always been the most organized, and to see her so frazzled had them both amused.
�Calm down. You still have two hours before we need to even think about leaving for the church. You have more than enough time.� IreLyn tried to comfort her obviously distraught friend.
�And besides,� Kristin added, �You can�t your hair done until Kody gets here, since she�s the one doing it. Then after she�s done your hair, I�ll do your makeup.�
Lissa spun around and looked at the clock on the wall. �Where is she? She�s late!�
�She�s not late.� IreLyn countered as Kristin giggled, both receiving a glare from the bride to be. Lissa threw her hands up and stalked to her bedroom, slamming the door shut behind her. It wasn�t that she was mad, and they both knew it. Since the day before she had been on edge, her nerves completely shot.
Kristin shook her head after her friend then turned to her sister, her smile fading somewhat, replaced by a concerned expression when she saw her sisters humor was short lived.
�How are you doing?� Kristin asked softly, knowing this had to be extremely hard on IreLyn.
It had been a year since her accident, and this would be the first time IreLyn and Brett would see each other since that day in the hospital. The annulment had gone through without any problems, and although they were both still close with their friends, they had managed to avoid each other completely for the past year. To say IreLyn was nervous about seeing him in just a few hours at the wedding was a huge understatement.
IreLyn sighed deeply. �I honestly don�t know.� She replied, her trembling softly. There was a part of her that didn�t want to see Brett at all. Then there was that other small part that was filled with regret that longed to see him, even if only for a short while.
She hadn�t dated anyone since Brett, somehow not being able to bring herself to it. She had heard that Brett was dating someone, and although she tried to ignore it, every time she thought about it, a sharp pain in her chest would take her breath away.
She tried to brace herself, knowing she was going to see him soon, but she was unable to stop her heart from pounding furiously. He hadn�t been at the rehearsal the night before, due to a prior engagement, but would definitely be there today since he was in the wedding, just like herself.
Lissa and Kevin had taken their time in setting a date, allowing all the plans to fall together perfectly without being rushed. Right after their engagement, Lissa had moved to Tennessee to be with Kevin, and every day their love grew stronger and stronger, and they were both ready and anxious to take that next step.
Kristin and Marshall were still together, although they were not yet engaged, but everyone knew it would only be a matter of time before they were on their way to the altar as well.
Dakota and Dale still acted like newly weds. The bond between them was just as strong as ever, and they never let anything come in between them. They were there for both IreLyn and Brett through the very difficult times, but didn�t allow anything to put a strain on their own relationship.
IreLyn and Kristin both looked up and smiled when the front door opened and Dakota walked in. �Hey guys!� Dakota greeted as she hugged Kristin then IreLyn. She pulled back and looked closely at IreLyn, knowing the entire situation had to be difficult on IreLyn. Especially being back in Tennessee after having been away for so long�and all the memories.
�It�s a good thing you�re here.� IreLyn teased. �Five more minutes and I think Lissa was going to send the search party out for you.�
Dakota glanced down at her watch. �But I�m right on time.�
�Try telling Lissa that.� Kristin giggled. They all turned when they heard Lissa coming down the hallway.
�It�s about damn time!� she rushed forward and grabbed Dakota�s arm. �Now hurry, we�ve only got�� she paused to look at the clock, gasping when she saw the time. �OH MY GOD! We�ve only an hour and fifty minutes, we�ve got to hurry!�
***
�I think I�m going to be sick.�
�Don�t you dare!� Kristin exclaimed as Dakota and IreLyn both gasped at the thought.
�If you mess up your hair, so help me god!� Dakota threatened.
�And your dress!� IreLyn cried.
Lissa tried to take a deep breath. �I-can�t-breath!�
�Shit, she�s hyperventilating.�
�Breath Lissa!� Kristin commanded as she hit Lissa on the back repeatedly.
�She�s not choking, you fool!� Dakota moved to open the door of the limo, quickly checking to make sure none of the guys were outside, then grabbed Lissa and pulled her outside where the crisp cool air hit her and calmed her down a little as she was able to get some fresh air into her lungs.
�Thanks.� Lissa gasped, looking gratefully at Dakota as she got her breathing under control.
Kristin and IreLyn climbed out of the limo as well and followed Lissa and Dakota to the back of the church. Kristin glanced at her sister out of the corner of her eye, noticing how pale she was.
�Are you sure you�re ready for this?� Kristin asked worriedly.
IreLyn gave her a shaky smile. �No, but I don�t really had much of a choice do I?� She took a deep breath, feeling as if her own lungs were closing in on her. Just knowing that Brett was inside was enough to make her start trembling.
For a little while now she�d had a feeling she�d made a terrible mistake by letting Brett go, and she knew that in a few minutes when she saw him as she walked down the aisle, she would know for sure. And that�s what scared her most.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Eight
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Brett raked his fingers through his hair as he glanced down at his watch for what had to be the hundredth time in the last few minutes. It was now only ten minutes before the wedding was to start�only ten minutes before he would see IreLyn again for the first time in a year.
He honestly didn�t know how he felt, he had so many emotions going through him right then. He was anxious to see her. He�d tried to move on, but he couldn�t. He�d dated a couple of different women, but it didn�t feel right. He wasn�t into it�not by anything they did wrong, it was all him. They were nice enough�but he was constantly comparing them to IreLyn and in his mind, no one compared to IreLyn. He was still completely in love with her and it was useless to try to fool himself into believing any different.
He had no idea how she was going to react to seeing him. Would she still be furious with him like she�d been the last time he�d seen her? He knew that she had every right to be angry with him. He was still very angry with himself for what he�d done to her. He knew that she wouldn�t do anything rash, but to see the emotions in her eyes, would affect him far more than any words could.
Feeling eyes on him, Brett looked over his shoulder and found Dale watching him. �Ya doing all right?� Dale asked after having watched Brett pace around the small room at the front of the church that they were waiting in since they�d gotten in there several minutes ago. �You�re more nervous than the groom.� Dale teased and gestured over to Kevin, who looked calm and collected.
Dale knew well why Brett was so nervous and according to Dakota, IreLyn wasn�t in any better shape. He couldn�t even begin to imagine what either of them was going through.
Brett sighed as he sat down and tried to still his trembling hands. �Just the thought of seeing her again after so long�� Brett trailed off, not being able to adequately put into words how he felt. There was so much that he wished he could change, but knowing full well that he couldn�t. He wanted to hope that somehow this weekend would bring some kind of reconciliation between him and IreLyn�it never hurt to hope.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Nine
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IreLyn jumped when she felt someone step up next to her. She relaxed slightly when she realized it was Dakota. Ever since the accident, she kept having nightmares about Logan and that night. Even though she knew he was gone and out of her life forever, she couldn�t stop herself from being very jumpy and expecting him to come at her if she let her guard down.
�It�s almost time.� Dakota said softly, studying her friend closely. She felt horrible for what both IreLyn and Brett were going through. She knew deep down that IreLyn was looking forward to seeing him, although she would never admit it out loud, or even to herself.
Dakota sincerely hoped that seeing each other for the first time, and at two of their best friends wedding, would help them to find their way back to each other. She sighed when she remembered promising her husband that she would do no scheming to try and get the two back together. Although Dale wanted them back just as much as anyone else, he said that they all needed to take a step back and let nature take its course, and let fate decide if IreLyn and Brett were truly meant to be together.
IreLyn nodded as she took a deep breath. �Is Lissa ready?� she asked, turning to look at Lissa who was pacing the room.
Dakota giggled. �I think she�s done hyperventilating.�
IreLyn smiled as she shook her head. �I hope we weren�t this bad when we got married.� The instant the words left her lips, her smile faded somewhat. It was strange. During the wedding itself, the entire thing was a blur�but now she could remember every little detail. Instead of it becoming fuzzier as time passed, it was the exact opposite. And no matter what had happened between her and Brett after the wedding, nothing could take that night away from her�away from being the most perfect night of her life.
�Ha! We didn�t have time to get that nervous.� Dakota smiled at the memory.
�Very true. Maybe we ought to talk Marshall into doing something like that when it�s his and Kristin�s turn.� IreLyn nodded towards her sister who was talking to Lissa trying to calm her down.
�Good idea.� Dakota agreed and was about to say something else but stopped when the minister walked in and smiled at them all.
�It�s time.� He announced then smiled at Lissa. �I�ll see you at the altar.�
After he�d turned and left all the girls quickly gave Lissa a hug then lined up. IreLyn fiddled with her bouquet of flowers nervously as she waited for the music to change, which was her cue to start down the aisle.
�You�ll do fine.� Dakota whispered from behind her giving her a smile of encouragement. �Oh, and you look gorgeous!�
IreLyn�s smile widened. Dakota always knew the right things to say, at the perfect moment. She heard the music change and took one last deep breath and started down the long aisle.
Dakota watched her, crossing her fingers. She could hardly wait to see Brett�s reaction to IreLyn. She truly did look absolutely stunning in the deep purple bridesmaid dress.
Dakota bit back the smile as she waited in anticipation for IreLyn to see Brett as well. If IreLyn was expecting to see the same Brett that had walked away from her a year ago, she was in for a huge shock.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Ten
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It took IreLyn several moments to find the courage to lift her eyes from where she�d had them fixed on her bouquet and look at everyone�more specifically at Brett who stood at the front of the church beside Kevin.
Her steps faltered and she was barely able to keep in the gasp of shock when her eyes did finally touch on him. It took her a moment to recognize him and she was positive that she wouldn�t have known it was him if she hadn�t seen his eyes. She would have known those eyes anywhere.
IreLyn had never imagined that Brett would look so different when she saw him and wondered why the hell someone hadn�t warned her. He had cut his hair short. It was very short�spiky short. He�d bleached it very blond and had the black streaks back that he�d had when she�d first met him. As if that wasn�t shocking enough, he�d grown a goatee and moustache that was the same black color as the streaks on his hair. The dark color against his light skin and the way it made his crystal blue eyes stand out was stunning.
Snapping herself out of the daze that she was in, IreLyn tore her eyes away from Brett and silently cursed herself for what she was doing. Yeah, he might have still had the power to take her breath away, but that still didn�t discount the way he�d treated her. She hadn�t spent months in therapy trying to get her life back in order just so she could undo the progress that she had made. She wasn�t falling into that trap again. Twice Brett had not believed in her, making her feel like the most worthless person in the world. That was enough.
Taking in a deep breath and slowly letting it out, IreLyn somehow managed to make it to the front of the church on weak legs that felt as if they�d give out on her at any second. She took her place, still feeling Brett�s eyes on her, but refusing to turn her attention back to him.
***
To say that Brett had been stunned when he�d first seen IreLyn was an understatement. The memory of her that he�d been carrying around in his mind the past year was of the last time that he�d seen her in the hospital.
He�d been literally swayed when IreLyn started down the aisle and his eyes had touched on her. She looked so beautiful that he�d been incapable of being able to breathe for a few moments and it in fact took a jab of Dale�s elbow in his side to remind to breathe.
Brett had seen the emotions that passed through IreLyn�s eyes from shock, confusion, hurt, and finally anger. God, he�d been so very foolish! How could he have been so completely stupid? He had had everything that he�d ever needed when he had IreLyn in his life and he�d so carelessly thrown everything away. How could he have been so incredibly stupid?
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Chapter Two Hundred and Eleven
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�Lissa the wedding was absolutely beautiful.� Kristin told her later at the reception. Everything had gone of perfectly, and Lissa was now a beautiful blushing bride.
Lissa glowed as she smiled at her best friend. �Thank you so much for all you�re help�with everything.�
�Anytime.� Kristin smiled sincerely, then stopped. �Well, then again, anytime with anything other than a wedding.�
Lissa smiled as her eyes traveled the room until they landed on her husband, who was talking to Brett, Dale, Marshall, the guys from the band, and a few other people. �Oh, believe me, I�m only getting married once.� She promised.
Lissa noticed that Brett seemed uninterested in anything that was being said amongst the men, in fact his attention seemed to be elsewhere. She followed his gaze across the room until she found IreLyn, who was talking to Dakota.
�How is Lyn holding up?� She asked Kristin, who immediately looked over at her sister.
�Better than I would be in that situation.� Kristin sighed.
�Have they talked at all?� Lissa asked. Kristin shook her head.
�No, not yet. But there had been some heavy duty staring when they think no one is looking.� Kristin commented. Lissa nodded, everyone in the room having noticed that.
�Do you think they should talk?� she asked.
Kristin was silent for a few minutes. �I�m not sure.� She said honestly. �Lyn has worked really hard over the past year to put her life back together, and I don�t want that to be all for nothing. But on the other hand, as well as she�s doing, I know that there is still that emptiness inside of her that only Brett can fill. If it could help them, and possibly get them back together, then yes, they should talk.�
�I agree. I wish there was something I could do.� Lissa said sadly, hating to see two people that she cared about hurting so badly.
�Me too. But I promised Dale I wouldn�t push anything.� Kristin said and Lissa grinned, having promised the same thing.
They both were silent for a few moments before Lissa turned and grinned at her friend. �So, I guess this means your next.�
�Huh?�
�To get married!� Lissa laughed.
�I doubt that will be for a while. Besides, I�m not even engaged.� Kristin pointed out.
�But it�s only a matter of time.� Lissa said. Kristin just shrugged, trying to act nonchalant.
�We�ll see.�
Lissa�s eyes narrowed as she studied her friend. �Spill it.�
�I�m just saying that I don�t see me getting married anytime in the near future.�
�Why? You�ve always wanted to get married and have kids.� Lissa was confused.
�You remember how hesitant he was to even think about starting a relationship with me, well it�s a lot worse when it comes to a more serious commitment.� Kristin told her. �Not that I really blame him, because he has been through hell, but still it�s a little frustrating at times.�
�What are you going to do?� Lissa asked.
�Wait as long as I have too.� She answered sincerely, her love for Marshall shining through. Suddenly she grinned broadly. �I think your husband wants you.�
�He better.� Lissa retorted, and they both laughed. She looked up, her heart speeding up when she saw Kevin coming towards her.
Kristin watched as Lissa walked over to meet Kevin, the love that flowed between them so strong, Kristin had to swallow hard past the lump that had formed in her throat. She remembered all too well when her sister had looked like that.
She only wished there was something she could do to help IreLyn to get there again. She glanced over at her sister, just in time to see her watching Brett, but turning away when he looked in her direction.
She clenched her teeth, knowing she had promised not to push anything, but this was getting ridiculous. She caught Dakota�s eyes and saw the same frustrations there.
Someone had to do something�and soon.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Twelve
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�How much would it really hurt to do just a tiny bit of scheming?� Kristin asked Dakota after making sure that Dale was no where within listening distance later that night after the reception was winding down. Not feeling like calling it a night yet, they and Dale and Marshall were going to hit a few clubs.
IreLyn had returned to her room shortly after Kevin and Lissa had left and they assumed that Brett had done the same because they hadn�t seen him in a while either. They�d tried to get IreLyn to stay, not liking the idea of her being alone in her room, but she�d been quick to point out that regardless, she would have been alone. Which was another thing that Kristin had gone around with IreLyn about. She hadn�t wanted IreLyn to have a room alone, but Lyn had been adamant, not wanting to impose on Kristin and Marshall. They did finally agree to have adjoining suits. But Kristin knew that IreLyn only agreed to appease her, along with Dakota and Lissa.
�Lyn and Brett obviously need to at least talk, and I don�t think that either one of them are going to make that move without a little push.� Kristin added. It wasn�t a question of if anymore. She knew that she had to do something to help IreLyn and Brett along. The question now was what, and how much?
Dakota sighed, agreeing with everything that Kristin was saying. �I know�it�s just that I promised Dale not to get involved.� She said, knowing that she couldn�t go back on the promise that she made to her husband.
�Well, so did I, but�� Kristin trailed off, a plan already forming in her mind. �I�ll take all the heat if Dale finds out. I don�t care�IreLyn is my sister and despite what Brett did to her, I care about him too. I can�t just sit here and watch them hurting like they are. I have to help somehow.� She told Dakota as she pulled her cell phone from her purse and punched in IreLyn�s number.
It took a lot of begging and pleading but finally Kristin was able to convince IreLyn to go out with them for a little while and she knew full well that IreLyn had only agreed to please her. She told Lyn to meet them in the hotel lobby, knowing full well that she, Dakota, Dale, or Marshall would be no where around.
�Now with any luck, I�ll be able to convince Brett as well.� Kristin said to Dakota as she called Brett�s number. After a few minutes, she hung up and looked at Dakota.
�Well, that wasn�t as hard as I thought it would be.� She said, letting out the breath that had been holding nearly the entire time.
�I just hope that it was the right thing to do.� Dakota replied, not sure if setting Brett and IreLyn up like this was the way to do it. Deep down she knew that it was the right thing, but she still felt like they were forcing IreLyn and Brett into a situation that they weren�t quite ready for yet.
Kristin nodded, knowing exactly what Dakota was saying. But she knew that Brett and IreLyn wouldn�t take the first step without a little help. She felt that everything would be fine�at least she hoped it would be.
*****
Kevin looked up from the champagne that he was pouring for Lissa and himself when he heard her laugh suddenly. The wedding reception had ended just a short time ago and they�d escaped to a suite in another hotel while two decoys that had been hired to pose as themselves to throw off the media had gone to a room in the hotel where the reception had been held.
�What�s funny?� Kevin asked, his eyes filled with love as he gazed at his wife standing before the fireplace in the living part of the suite. When she turned to look at him, his heart sped up. There was a light shining in her eyes that made her so breathtakingly beautiful.
Lissa smiled as she walked over to where Kevin stood. She wrapped her arms around his waist and looked up at him. �When I talked to my mom before we left, she was already wondering when we were going to give her a grandchild. She�s been dropping hints pretty much all night long.� She told him, shaking her head as she thought her mom�s eagerness.
Kevin laughed, his own mom showing the impatience. �Mine too. Except she�s been dropping hints for about the last year.� He told her, gazing down into her eyes. He paused for a moment as a sexy smile curved his lips.
�Well?� He questioned, his eyebrow raised in query.
Lissa looked up at him. She knew that she wanted children right away, but they hadn�t really talked in depth about it so she wasn�t sure how he felt about it. What she saw in his eyes told her all she needed to know.
�No time like the present.� Lissa said, gasping softly when Kevin pulled her tight against him after hearing her reply. She tipped her head back as his lips came down on hers in a slow, deeply passionate kiss that held all the love that he felt for her. She returned his kiss with the same emotion.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Thirteen
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Dale and Marshall eyed both Kristin and Dakota suspiciously as they kept glancing at their watches, and neither had even asked to dance once, nor had they touched their drinks in front of them.
Marshall caught Dale�s eye and raised an eyebrow as Dale sighed. He had an idea what was going on, and what had caused the girls sudden odd behavior.
�What did you two do?� he finally asked. Marshall sat back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest, having an idea he knew where this was going.
Dakota tried her best to look innocent, but instead came off looking extremely guilty. Kristin looked over at her and spoke up before Dakota could say anything.
�It was me!� she confessed, having witnessed Dale�s temper before and didn�t want him getting angry at Dakota when she really hadn�t done anything.
Kristin swallowed hard when she found herself under the intense stares of both Dale and Marshall. She fidgeted in her chair a little before glaring back at them defiantly.
�Stop looking at me like that!� she said with false bravery. �IreLyn is my sister, and I want to see her happy, and it was obvious she and Brett are both too damn stubborn to make any kind of first move.� She huffed.
�Again, I ask, what did you do?� Dale questioned.
�I simply put them in the same place at the same time. That�s it! It�s not like I locked them in a room together somewhere.�
Dakota grinned knowingly at her. �That was Plan B wasn�t it?� she teased. Kristin giggled and nodded.
�Actually it was my first plan until Dale made me promise not to scheme.� Kristin pouted.
�And you call this not scheming?� Marshall asked a little amused. Kristin looked over at him and shook her head.
�Not at all. This didn�t take any kind of effort�scheming takes a hell of a lot. Therefore this was not scheming!� Kristin reasoned, then turned to Dale. �And I swear your wife had nothing to do with it. It was totally my idea!�
�Uh huh. And I�m sure you tried to stop her, right?� Dale asked Dakota, who grinned sheepishly.
�Uh, I forgot?� she offered as an excuse.
Dale shook his head as Marshall laughed. Neither could get angry in any way, because they knew it was done with the best intentions. They both crossed their finger that the plan worked�and that they all wouldn�t have to resort to Kristin�s Plan B.
***
IreLyn stepped off the elevator and looked around, frowning when she didn�t see anyone she was expecting too. She checked her watch to make sure she wasn�t late. No, she was right on time. So, where the hell was everybody?
She walked over to the front desk, where the man behind the counter smiled brightly at her.
�Can I help you?� he asked, his eyes roaming appreciatively over her body. She forced a smile.
�Could you please ring room 314?� she asked, hoping maybe they were all in Dale and Dakota�s room, knowing full well no one had been in Kristin and Marshall�s.
�Of course.� He picked up the phone and listened. After a few moments he put the receiver down and shook his head. �There was no answer. Is there anything else I can do for you?�
IreLyn bit her lip trying to figure out what to do. She didn�t have her cell phone on her, having left it in Colorado, knowing she wasn�t going to need it, so she didn�t have any of the cell number she needed to get a hold of them.
�Do you have any messages for IreLyn Hunter?� she asked, hoping maybe they had left word with the desk clerk. He flipped through some papers on the desk, then again shook his head.
�I�m afraid not.� He replied.
�Okay, thank you.� IreLyn turned and walked away. She hadn�t really felt like going out as it was, but now that she was ready to go, she was a little disappointed that she couldn�t find her friends�or that they hadn�t waited for her.
With her head down, lost in though, she walked over to the elevators. She looked up when the door opened, getting ready to move inside, and then halted as her breath caught in her throat. She couldn't remember how to breathe, think, talk, anything when her green eyes met Brett�s, who looked just as stunned and shocked as she felt.
This was it moment they had both been dreading, yet secretly anticipating�and now that it was here, neither knew what the hell to do.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Fourteen
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Brett and IreLyn continued to stare at each other for several moments longer before each of them snapped out of their temporary stupor at the same time.
�Have you seen Dakota?�� IreLyn began to ask, Ignoring the fact that it was Brett who was standing less than six feet away from her. She told herself that he was just any other person. She stopped her question when she realized that Brett was also speaking.
Brett paused in what he was saying also. He smiled faintly as he looked at IreLyn for a moment. �Go ahead.� He told her when she didn�t say anything further.
�Uh�� IreLyn stuttered, pausing to take a deep breath when she realized that her hands had begun trembling and her heart was pounding so furiously she was sure that he could hear it. She hardened her emotions, reminding herself of the hell that Brett had but her through. Even now a year later, she still had a hard time coping with it and she still saw her therapist once a week.
�Never mind.� IreLyn said quietly as she turned and began walking through the lobby toward the exit. She desperately needed some fresh air or something.
Brett held the elevator doors open when they began to close and watched IreLyn walking away from him. He knew that he should just let her go�let her get on with her life. But, he couldn�t. At least not without telling her how very sorry he was first.
�Lyn, wait!� Brett called as he began walking after her. He watched as she paused undecidedly at the door for just a split second before she pushed it open and went through. Brett felt his heart drop, but he didn�t let it stop him. He knew he would be damn lucky if IreLyn would even give him the time of day ever again. He wasn�t giving up easily though.
Following her outside, Brett found IreLyn standing outside of the hotel. She was staring down at the ground, but Brett knew that if she did look at him, he would see the tears and the array of emotions in her eyes.
Brett took a few tentative steps toward her, stopping when he saw her body stiffen as she sensed his presence. But after a few moments she relaxed; seemingly resigning to the fact that Brett was right there and he wasn�t going to leave until he got what he wanted. Taking in a deep breath and slowly letting it out, she turned around and looked at him.
Brett�s breath caught sharply in his throat when he saw the hurt, anger, confusion, and so many other emotions shining brightly in her beautiful green eyes. God, he hoped that he could make her see how incredibly sorry he was for�everything. The way he�d treated her�all the cruel things he�d said to her�the way he�d turned away from her, not believing in her�everything. Although he wanted her back in his life, that was his first priority.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Fifteen
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�What do you want?� she finally asked after he stood there staring at her. She was having a hell of a time keeping her own emotions in check. She was able to fool everyone, including herself in the past couple months, but with Brett standing in front of her, she knew her act was up.
Brett again hesitated at her question. There was so much he wanted. He wanted to be happy, he wanted her to be happy, he wanted to take away all the hurt and pain he had caused her, he wanted her to know just how damn sorry he was. He wanted so much; he really wasn�t sure where to begin.
�I�� he faltered when he looked into her eyes and paused a moment to regain his courage. �Can we talk? Please?�
IreLyn studied him for a moment, then finally nodded, seeing the sincerity in his eyes, although she wouldn�t allow herself to be sucked in again. She knew this time would, and it was better to get it over with now, than to put it off and make it even harder.
�Fine.� She said before starting towards the gardens at the hotel, where she knew they would have some privacy to talk. Brett fell into step beside her, his pulse quickening at her nearness. They hadn�t even touched, yet those familiar sparks were coursing through his body stronger than ever.
They reached the garden and sat down across from each other on the benches. IreLyn looked at him expectantly, waiting for him to start the conversation. Brett cleared his throat.
�You look wonderful.� He told her softly, saying the first thing that came to his mind. IreLyn blinked, looking a little surprised by his words, obviously not expecting that.
�Thanks, but I seriously doubt you wanted to talk about how I look. You want to talk, so talk.� She said firmly, proud of herself for staying strong and not allowing all her wayward emotions to shine through.
Brett nodded. �Um, first of all, I want to apologize.� He started off, holding up his hand when he saw the anger jump into her eyes. �Please, let me say all this and get through it before you say anything. Please.� He begged, knowing this was his one and only chance.
IreLyn looked away and didn�t say anything for a few moments. Finally she tuned back to face him and indicated for him to continue, letting him know she wouldn�t interrupt.
Brett slowly let out the breath he hadn�t realized he�d been holding. �I know that nothing I can say or do will ever make up for what I�ve done to you, and the hurt I�ve caused, yet even knowing that, I have to try.�
�There is no excuse for the way I acted and the things I said to you. All I can plead is insanity. I honestly don�t know what I was thinking. All I know is I was a complete fool for not believing in you�again.�
�I�m a stubborn man, which I�m sure you�ve well realized, and I have my foolish pride. Even after I realized that everything you had said was true, I didn�t come back. Although I know I hurt you immensely, I was hurt as well.�
IreLyn�s head jerked up and her body stiffened, but she didn�t say anything, letting him continue. �You left me in Tennessee with nothing more than a letter. I was hurt, I was angry. But I was angrier with myself than anything else because I knew I had pushed you away and caused you to leave. What you never knew was the next day when I came to the house with the pictures; they had been delivered to me right as I was leaving for the airport. I was on my way to Colorado to beg your forgiveness�to try and find a way to make things right between us again.�
�When I first saw the pictures, I tried not to let it get to me, and I knew that Logan was behind it somehow. But then on the plane, it allowed me time to stew over it, and to stare at those pictures. I let my jealousy and insecurities take over, and when I saw you at your parent�s house, I snapped. I acted like a complete ass, and I said things to you that I will never forgive myself for.�
His voice cracked and he looked down at his hands, taking a deep breath. �I know that we�ll never be where we were, hell we�ll probably never even be friends. But I couldn�t live the rest of my life without tell you how sorry I am, and if I could take all your hurt away, I would.�
�I don�t expect you to ever forgive me, or to trust me again. But do know, that I am so proud of you. After everything you have been through, most people would have crumbled and given up a hell of a long time ago, but you never stopped fighting. I look at you now, and I see a strong, beautiful independent woman who has been through pure hell and survived, and I know that I am truly blessed for the little bit of time I had you in my life.�
�I love you IreLyn, I always will. It�s my punishment for everything I�ve done, knowing that it�s my own damn fault that you�re gone.� He attempted to laugh, but it didn�t quite work.
He stood up, unable to stay there any longer without breaking down. IreLyn�s head was still bent and she hadn�t looked at him aside from that one time. It was obvious she really didn�t want to hear what he had to say. He needed to leave. He needed to leave her be once and for all.
�I wish you luck and happiness, because you deserve it more than anyone else. Good-bye.� With that he turned and walked away so she wouldn�t see the tears that slipped silently down his face, as he moved quickly towards the hotel.
He thought once he was able to finally talk to her and tell her how he felt, he would begin to heal and feel better. But he was wrong; instead he felt worse. For the first time, he realized that she was his soul mate, his other half, his reason for being�and that he had lost her forever.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Sixteen
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After being at the club a little while longer, Marshall gradually began to become increasingly fidgety. Dale looked away, chuckling softly while Dakota and Kristin looked at Marshall in confusion, both wondering what was up with him.
�Let�s get out of here.� Dale said to Dakota as he rose to his feet before taking hold of her hand and pulling her to her feet. He caught Dakota�s silent question and gestured to the exit, letting her know that he would tell he what was up once they were outside.
�Okay, we�ll catch you guys tomorrow.� Dakota told Kristin and Marshall, having a good understanding what was going on without Dale telling her fully. Before leaving Dakota gave Kristin a tight hug and Marshall a knowing smile that actually made him blush. Dakota laughed, having never seen Marshall blush, nor did she ever think it was possible for him to blush. It just didn�t seem like something he�d ever do.
Kristin studied Marshall for a few moments after Dale and Dakota left. She could feel his leg bouncing nervously beside hers and he kept his eyes downcast. �Alright, what�s going on?� She asked, unable to take anymore.
Marshall�s head snapped up and his eyes met hers. Kristin was a bit taken aback, having never seen him so agitated before. She�d seen him agitated in anger before, but this was different. He was�frazzled.
�Uh�� Marshall stuttered, looking down at his hands for a moment before he met her eyes again. �Can we take a walk? � He asked in a rush before he lost his courage to go through with this. He was more than ready to do this�he really didn�t know why he was so nervous.
�Sure.� Kristin agreed. She�d been worried about IreLyn and now with Marshall acting strange, she really wasn�t in the mood for the club anymore.
Marshall and Kristin walked in silence util they reached a small park a few blocks from the club. Not finding any benches, they sat sown in the grass near a small pond.
�Nice here.� Kristin commented when Marshall remained quiet. She gazed out at the reflection of the full moon shimmering on the water, it reminding her of home. She was caught off guard when Marshall suddenly drew her against him and lowered his head to kiss her lips softly.
Marshall pulled back just enough to be able to see into Kristin�s eyes. �The time I�ve been with you has been like nothing else.� Marshall began the speech that he�s practiced over and over in his mind. His heart began pounding furiously, knowing what he was about to do.
�I love you more than anything, Kristin. I want to spend more time with you�I want to spend forever with you.� Marshall told her, his voice beginning to waver slightly.
Kristin gasped softly, her eyes growing wide as she fully began to understand where Marshall was going with this. She started trembling all over when Marshall pulled the ring box from his pocket and opened it to reveal the most beautiful ring she�d ever seen.
�Please will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?� Marshall asked, holding his breath as he waited for her answer. He didn�t have to wait long.
�Yes!� Kristin exclaimed, tears of happiness flowing from her eyes as she threw her arms around him.
�I love you.� Marshall whispered gruffly as he slipped the ring onto her finger.
Kristin smiled happily into his eyes. �I love you too.� She replied just before she leaned forward and claimed his lips in a kiss to seal their promise to each other.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Seventeen
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Dale looked over at Dakota questioningly when he heard her laughing softly. �What?� he asked as walked up the front steps of the hotel, nodding to the doorman as he held the door open for them.
�I was just thinking, I�ve never seen Marshall so damn flustered in my life!� Dakota chuckled, recalling the way Marshall had been acting ever since the reception. �If his fans saw him tonight, his notorious �bad boy rapper� image would be shot to hell.�
Dale grinned. �He was pretty nervous.�
Dakota glanced at him out of the corner of her eye. �Nervous doesn�t even begin to explain how he was tonight. It was hilarious!� Her eyes sparkled with laughter. �So, is that how you were before you asked me to marry you?�
Dale gently squeezed her hand, which he had been holding, and shook his head. �Nope, I was confident the entire time. Calm, cool and collected, that was me.� He grinned, knowing she knew better than that.
�Uh huh, sure. So that�s why you and Brett nearly passed out when you realized you hadn�t even asked us. Oh yeah, definitely calm and cool.� She laughed at the look on Dale�s face.
�Let me guess Kristin told you.� He grimaced, remembering the way he and Brett had completely forgotten one of the most important parts. Dakota laughed and nodded.
�I swear, that girl can�t keep her mouth shut!� he grumbled good naturedly.
Dakota playfully hit his arm. �She wasn�t going to tell us. But IreLyn and I were just going on and on about how you two had arranged everything so perfectly and that we couldn�t believe you two pulled it off without any hitches�� she paused at the hurt look on his face, grinned and kissed him softly on the cheek. �We didn�t mean it in a bad way, honey. But anyway, we were just raving about you and Brett, we noticed Kristin turning red, trying not to laugh. So, we asked her what she was hiding, and after some coaxing, she told us.�
�Naturally.� He laughed. His laughter died when he saw IreLyn walking through the hotel lobby, her head down. The way Dakota stiffened next to him, he knew she had seen her friend as well.
�That didn�t look good.� He said softly, turning to his wife, who was looking after IreLyn.
�No it didn�t. I was really hoping that Kristin�s plan would work, but now I�m afraid it might have backfired. Did you see how lost and alone she looked?� Dakota bit her lip, blinking back tears that were threatening for IreLyn and Brett. She turned to Dale.
�I�m going to go talk to IreLyn. I�ll meet you at the room later.�
Dale nodded. �Yeah, I�m going to go see if I can track down Brett. I have a feeling he�s probably not looking or feeling any better than IreLyn at the moment.� He sighed heavily, feeling horrible for his two friends.
�Good luck.� He told her, having a feeling they were all going to need it. She nodded and gave him a soft kiss before turning to hurry after IreLyn.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Eighteen
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IreLyn's footsteps paused and she sighed inwardly when she heard Dakota calling her name behind her. She briefly entertained the thought of keeping on her way as she really didn't feel up to talking with anyone right at that moment, but she also realized that Dakota was probably concerned about her and only wanted to make sure that she was okay.
Dakota literally had to hold in the startled gasp when IreLyn turned around and she could fully see the expression in her eyes and on her face. To say that her friend looked horrible was an understatement. Snapping herself out of the shock that she was in, Dakota hurried the rest of the way over to where IreLyn was standing.
"You're back early." IreLyn said, hoping to keep the subject off of herself and Brett as long as possible. She didn't want to talk about it and she quite honestly wasn't sure that she could put into words how she was feeling then.
"Been a long day." Dakota replied as she tried to read IreLyn. It was impossible. "Kristin and Marshall took off so Dale and I decided to come back here." She told IreLyn, purposely leaving out the fact of why Kristin and Marshall had disappeared. She knew without a doubt that IreLyn would be ecstatic for her sister and Marshall, but she wanted to let Kristin be the one to tell Lyn and if truth be told, Dakota really wasn't sure if IreLyn could handle hearing the news right then.
IreLyn looked around the hotel lobby. "Where is Dale?" She asked, not seeing him anywhere.
Dakota opened her mouth to answer, but closed it again before she said anything. She really didn't want IreLyn to know that she and Brett had been set up to meet the way they had and if she told Lyn that Dale had gone to talk with Brett while she was here talking to her, it would be much too easy for IreLyn to put two and two together to figure it out.
"Uh...he went on up to the room. We were on our way in when Carl stopped us and asked if we'd seen Brett. Well, I ended up talking to him for a while and Dale wanted to take a shower so he went up to the room. I was on my way up when I saw you." Dakota told her, silently apologizing for the lie that she was telling.
IreLyn studied Dakota intently. After several moments, Dakota began to fidget nervously, knowing that she had been busted.
"Carl left half way through the reception. His wife, Julia is pregnant and her water broke so he had to get back home." IreLyn repeated what Lissa had told her earlier.
"Oh!" Dakota exclaimed as she tried desperately to cover up her mistake. "Did I say Carl? I meant Jeff! It's hard to keep those bald men separate."
"Let's go get a drink." Dakota said an instant later when IreLyn remained silent. "Honestly, you look like you could use one, Lyn." She said, watching as IreLyn's eyes took on a far off look.
After a moment, IreLyn nodded her head in agreement. She really didn't want to have a drink, yet at the same time, she suddenly didn't feel like going back up to her room where she would be all alone once again. Maybe all she really needed was to talk with Dakota about what had happened with Brett and getting good and drunk in the process could never hurt.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Nineteen
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Dale winced inwardly when Brett answered the door and he got a good look at his friend. Not that Brett had looked horrible lately, but he hadn�t looked himself, but tonight he looked as if someone had walked over his grave.
�Damn you look like shit!� Dale exclaimed before he was able to stop himself. �Uh, I mean, do you want to talk about what happened tonight between you and IreLyn?�
Brett glanced over at him as he walked across the room to the mini-bar and pulled out one of the little bottles left. It had been full, but now it was mostly empty�along with the bottles that were strewn across hotel room.
�How did you know�?� he trailed off, his voice gruff.
�Kody and I saw IreLyn downstairs and she looks almost as bad as you do, so we just put two and two together.� Dale told him. Brett�s eyes darkened with pain at IreLyn�s name.
�You want one?� he offered a bottle to Dale, who shook his head. Brett sighed before he downed the contents in one gulp. �I did it, man. I finally told her all the things I have wanted too.�
�That�s good right?� Dale asked as he sat down, knowing from past conversations what Brett had been wanting to say to IreLyn, but had never had the opportunity�or the courage.
Brett sat down across from him. �I thought it would be. I always dreamed that I�d feel better�but I don�t. I can�t explain it.�
Dale took a deep breath, running his hand through his hair, not knowing how to handle this situation, or how to help out. �How did IreLyn react?� he asked the one question on his mind.
�She really didn�t. Basically she just sat there when as I talked, she never said anything, and for the most part never even looked at me. That told me all that I needed to know. She hates me, plain and simple. And I can�t blame her. I took everything she�s ever given me and threw it back into her face. She begged me to listen to her�begged me, and I just walked away from her and didn�t look back. How can I ever expect her to forgive me?� He cried.
�I don�t think IreLyn hates you.� Dale held up his hand at Brett�s disbelieving look. �Seriously. I don�t think she can. Deep down, she still loves you. Even when you were the angriest with her, you still loved her deep down. That kind of love doesn�t just die, and you know that better than anyone. Maybe she just needs some time after hearing what you had to say tonight. Time and guidance.� He smiled softly thinking of Dakota talking to her at that very moment.
Brett let out a snort as he threw himself back on the couch, his arm over his eyes. �I�m through with believing in miracles, and that�s what that would be, a fucking miracle.�
Dale stood up. �You can�t just give up like this, Brett. If you truly want IreLyn back, you�ve got to fight for her! She�s your damn soul mate!� He was about to say more, but cut himself off and glared at Brett when he heard him chuckling.
Brett waved a hand at him as his laugh turned into full-blown laughter. After a few moments he calmed himself down and wiped his eyes. �Sorry. But that was just funny as hell listening to Dale Earnhardt Jr. talking about soul mates! What�s next? You gonna start reading my aura?�
Dale�s glare turned up a notch. �Fuck you, and you�re drunk.� He hadn�t missed the way Brett�s words were beginning to slur.
Brett laughed again and nodded. �Yup. It�s the only way to be these days. This way it doesn�t hurt so much. Numbs the pain.�
Dale shook his head. �It�s not the answer.�
Brett pushed himself up to a sitting position. �Yeah I know, but it�s the only way I�ve really made it through the past year. I�m going to bed. You can let yourself out.�
Dale sighed but turned and started towards the door. His hand was on the knob when Brett�s voice stopped him.
�Hey, Junior. Thanks�for everything. I mean that, man. But there comes a time when you have to just give up and throw in the towel. And I can�t put IreLyn through any more hell. I�ve done enough, don�t you think?�
�I�m done. For IreLyn�s sake, I�m done.�
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Chapter Two Hundred and Twenty
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IreLyn groaned irritably when the phone beside her bed began ringing. She lifted her head, only to immediately let it fall back to her pillow as she whimpered softly at the pain pounding through it. She cracked her eyes open and winced when the light hit them, making the pain in her head even more unbearable. When she glanced at the clock and saw the time, she remembered that she had left instructions for a wake up call last night before she�d left the room and that was why the phone was ringing. Lissa and Kevin were having a brunch as a thank you to everyone before they left for their honeymoon later that morning.
IreLyn lifted the receiver off the hook and placed it back to stop the phone from ringing. Pushing the blankets back off of her and she gingerly sat up. She looked down at herself, seeing that she�d slept in her clothes from the night before.
�Oh god�� IreLyn moaned as she held her throbbing head in her hands and prayed for the pain to subside. She really didn�t remember much of the night before after her first or second drink. She wasn�t a big drinker and it didn�t take much for her to get drunk. She had no clue what time she got back to her room, or how she even got there. Although she knew that she had talked to Dakota about Brett, she had no idea what she�d actually said. Hopefully she hadn�t made too big of a fool of herself by saying or doing anything too out there. Dakota would never let her live it down if she had.
Rising to her feet, IreLyn went over to her bag and shook three aspirin out of the bottle that she had brought along with her. After that she headed straight for the shower, hoping that the water would help her to feel a little better.
She was just emerging from the shower a short time later when she heard the phone ringing again. She wrapped a towel around herself as she rushed out to answer it. She began to regret it the instant she heard Dale�s voice on the other end.
�How ya feelin�, Lyn?� Dale asked, barely able to contain the laughter that was threatening.
IreLyn had to laugh as she shook her head. She could almost see the mirth that she knew Dale would have shining in his eyes. Obviously Dakota had wasted no time in filling him on her getting drunk.
�I feel great, why do you ask?� IreLyn questioned, deciding to play innocent.
Dale laughed heartily. �Lyn, I carried you up to your room last night. You know darn well what I�m talking about.� He told her. It had been about four hours after he�d gotten back from talking with Brett when Dakota called him to help her with IreLyn. She hadn�t been out of control or anything, she just couldn�t walk well enough to get back to her room. And she�d passed out on his shoulder before they�d even gotten to the elevators.
�Uh�� IreLyn stammered, feeling embarrassed. �Well, waking up was a little rough, but I�m doing pretty good now.� She told him, thankful that her headache had calmed down to a dull thud.
�Okay, well, Kody wanted me to make sure you were all right and awake. She said to tell you that we�ll stop by so we can all head downstairs together.�
�Alright, I�ll see you guys in a little bit then.� She told him before saying good-bye and ending the call.
IreLyn sat there for a few minutes as she thought about the night before...specifically when she'd seen Brett. God, she was so confused. While part of her vehemently hated him for what he'd done to her, there was also a part of her that was still so in love with him. Seeing him again that weekend had only proved both of those points.
She longed to forgive him of everything, yet at the same time, she wasn't so sure that she could allow herself to ever completely trust him again after he'd pretty mush destroyed her.
Sighing heavily, IreLyn rose to her feet and began getting dressed. She knew that in just a little while she'd see Brett again and she had so many conflicting emotions about that. All she really could do was take it one day at a time.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Twenty One
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Dakota watch IreLyn quietly as she walked across the room and sat down next to her sister after giving Lissa a quick hug. Dakota then turned and looked at Brett, who was standing near by talking to Kevin. She hadn�t missed the way Brett turned away when IreLyn walked in, not even making eye contact with her, nor had she missed the look of confusion, and dare she hope, disappointment on IreLyn�s face.
�I know that look.� Dakota smirked as she turned to face her husband, cocking her head to the side.
�What look?� she asked innocently, batting her lashes.
Dale grinned as he wagged his finger at her. �Don�t try that innocent act with me young lady. You have a plan going on inside your head, and just remember your promise.� He reminded her.
Dakota smiled brightly. �I would never go back on my promise!� Dale studied her for a second then nodded, believing her. He leaned down and gave her a soft kiss.
�I�m going to go talk to Kevin and Brett.� He said, she nodded and smiled as he turned and walked away. As soon as his back was turned her smile turned mischievous, her eyes gleaming.
She turned and quickly headed over to where IreLyn was sitting. For this plan to work, she was going to need some serious help, and she knew just whom to get.
As she reached the table, Lissa and IreLyn were hugging Kristin, congratulating her on her engagement. Dakota stepped forward and hugged her as well. �I�m so happy for you!� she said sincerely.
Kristin smiled happily at her. �Thank you, I am too!� she beamed. When Dakota grabbed her arm and pulled her a little ways away from IreLyn and Lissa who were deep into conversation and didn�t even noticed, Kristin knew something big was up.
�How did my plan go last night?� Kristin asked. �Just from looking at Lyn and Brett I�d say not too well, that�s why I didn�t want to ask my sister.�
�Well, I don�t think it went quite how we were hoping it would, but I think there has been some progress made.� Dakota informed her. Kristin�s eyes lit up.
�Really?�
�Apparently, from what I got out of IreLyn during her�uh, drinking binge last night, Brett apologized. And it was a sincere heartfelt apology, something I think both of them needed.�
�Wow.� Kristin looked over at Brett, her heart going out to him. She may still be angry about what he did to her sister, but she knew that he was truly sorry, and she also knew, like everyone else, that he and IreLyn belonged together.
�What did Lyn say?� Kristin asked.
�Before or after the alcohol?� Dakota grinned. Kristin laughed and shook her head.
�After. That way I know what she said was true. She�s not much of a drinker and doesn�t hold her liquor very well, but when she does, everything that comes out of her mouth is the God�s honest truth.� Kristin said.
�I know. That�s why I�m so encouraged, and not feeling bad about what I�m planning.�
Kristin�s eyebrows rose. �Planning?� she asked with interest.
Dakota nodded. �Last night, after the alcohol took away all her walls and defenses, she told me how much she loves Brett. But most importantly she told me how much she misses him, and how much she wishes he were back in her life.�
Kristin chewed on her bottom lip. �Well, then what�s the problem? He loves her, she loves him, he�s sorry, she forgives him and presto, lots of smooches and making up.�
Dakota shook her head. �I wish it were that easy. But unfortunately this is real life, and not some crazy romance novel. Yes he loves her and she loves him, but she hasn�t completely forgiven him. The kind of hurt he caused is not something you just forgive and forget. Right now, more than anything, she�s afraid she can�t trust him ever again.�
Kristin sighed. �Yeah, I know. I can�t say that I blame her hesitancy either.�
�Nor can I, but deep down, from what I got last night, she wants to trust him. She wants to be able to forgive him and get back what was lost. But I think in the light of day, she won�t go after what she wants. And now, judging from Brett, he won�t either.�
�Damn stubborn people!� Kristin huffed.
�I know. But lucky for them, they have us!� Dakota exclaimed.
�Uh huh, and I�m guessing you already have a plan.� Kristin laughed.
�Kinda. But that�s where you come in. You�re the good schemer of the group therefore, you�re going to help me!�
Kristin giggled. �Of course I�ll help! Hey! Wait just a damn second! Doesn�t this go against your deal or whatever with Junior?� she asked, her eyes narrowing.
Dakota grinned and shrugged. �Nope, not really. See, I promised that I would not interfere with IreLyn and Brett during the wedding. The wedding was yesterday. I did not interfere. Today is a whole new day!�
�And you call me the schemer!� Kristin snickered. �You know, Dale might not have the same outlook on this as you do.�
Dakota cast a loving look over to her husband. �I�m not too worried about it. I�ll just have to turn up the charm and disarm that glare of his, which I�m sure I�ll be getting once we pull this off.�
�So, what are we going to do, and when do we get started?� Kristin asked, her eyes shining with anticipation.
�Well, I don�t have all the fine points worked out yet, but I figured you�re the master at that. Anyway, I thought we�d just go with your Plan B.� Dakota laughed at Kristin�s confused expression.
�Huh?�
�To lock the in the room together.� Dakota reminded her, and Kristin�s eyes went wide.
�Oh yeah! How could I have forgotten that? That was my original plan until Dale shot that one all to hell. Okay, I have to think. If anyone asks where I�ve gone, tell them I�uh�oh you make up something.� Kristin told her.
�Wait! Where are you going?� Dakota asked.
Kristin grinned. �Hey, even us schemers extraordinary need some peace and quiet to do some serious planning. Besides, I�m going to go check around the hotel to see if any nearby rooms are empty.�
�Alright. I have my cell and it�s on vibrate, so if you need me, call me. I won�t answer, so that way no one will suspect anything, but I�ll sneak out and call you back.�
Kristin nodded then turned and hurried out of the room. Dakota took a deep breath, then wiped her grin off her face as she turned back around to join her friends at the table. She crossed her fingers and sent a little prayer up above that this worked for two very important reasons. One, if this didn�t work it could make things worse for Brett and IreLyn, something neither she nor Kristin would ever forgive themselves for. And two, if it didn�t work she and Kristin were going to be in some deep shit with Dale and Marshall!
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Chapter Two Hundred and Twenty Two
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Kristin smiled as she walked up to the desk in the hotel lobby. After thinking over things for nearly an hour, she had an idea�Or at least she thought she did. She hoped that it would work.
�May I help you?� The girl behind the desk, whose name was Kat, asked. She smiled brightly, knowing very well who the woman standing before her was. She had specifically asked to work that weekend when she learned that a few of her most favorite celebrities would be staying at the hotel that weekend.
�Well, I sort of need a little favor.� Kristin began, not quite sure how to say what she wanted.
�What�s that?� The clerk asked, her curiosity peaked.
�Well, I know that they bar isn�t occupied right now and won�t be open until this evening�I need to borrow it.� Kristin stated, not beating around the bush any further. "There are a couple of people who need to get together to discuss some things and we thought that that would be a good spot." Kristin elaborated at the inquiring look that she was getting from the clerk, hoping that her 'explanation' was sufficient enough without having to say too much more.
"Well, it shouldn't be a problem. The bar actually doesn't open at all today because it is Sunday today. But you'll have to speak with the manager to be sure. I'll go get him." Kat told Kristin before she disappeared into the office area behind the front desk.
Fifteen minutes later, not only did Kristin have permission from the manager to use the bar, but she also had the keys to the door, which was more than she'd hoped for. She grinned mischievously, glad to know that she still had the ability to charm just about anything out of anyone.
Grabbing her cell phone, she put in Dakota's number. She let it ring a few times and then disconnected, knowing that Dakota would call her back as soon as she got a chance.
"Okay, everything is ready." Kristin told Dakota when she returned her call back. "I'll be right back there and we can really kick this plan into motion."
"Okay, but one thing...How are we going to get them in there?" Dakota asked, hoping Kristin had that figured out as well because she honestly didn't have a clue.
"I have no idea!" Kristin laughed, knowing that if they managed to pull this off, it would be a miracle. "We'll figure that out when we get there. I'm on my way back now!"
*****
"Did you hear if Carl and Julia had their baby?" IreLyn asked Lissa as they sat by a table, still talking. Now that IreLyn was the only one left in Colorado, it seemed like she never saw Lissa, or anyone else very often. She was going to take advantage of being able to have a face to face conversation rather than one over the phone like it usually was.
And honestly it was working nicely to keep her attention from Brett.
"Yes! He called this morning. I've been meaning to tell you." Lissa said. "They had a girl that they named Kelly and Carl says that she is the most gorgeous little girl he's ever seen. He said that she looks amazingly like Julia, apart from one thing."
"What's that?" IreLyn asked when Lissa didn't elaborate any further.
"Apparently she's just as bald as her daddy." Lissa told IreLyn, both of them breaking into laughter at her statement.
"I bet she's a doll." IreLyn commented, still laughing. "So when are you and Kevin going to be having babies?" She asked, knowing that it was something that they both wanted.
"Hopefully soon." Lissa replied, her eyes glowing.
Before either of them could say anything more, they saw Kristin and Dakota approaching. IreLyn eyes her sister questioningly. "Where did you disappear to?"
"I'll have to explain that later, but right now Kody and I need your help with something." Kristin told IreLyn.
Lissa kept quiet, knowing from just looking at Kristin and Dakota that they were up to something. She'd been seriously tempted to do some scheming of her own where Brett and Lyn were concerned that weekend, but she'd been a little occupied, plus she had promised Kevin that she wouldn't get involved. She was glad to know that Dakota and Kristin had taken things into their own hands.
IreLyn eyed Kristin and Dakota suspiciously for a moment before she relented and stood up to follow them.
Lissa stood up also and looked at IreLyn. "If I don't talk to you again before Kevin and I get out of here, you take care and I'll call you when we get back home." She told IreLyn before hugging her friend tight. Then as she watched them walking away, Lissa silently prayed that whatever Kristin and Dakota had up their sleeves worked out for the best.
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Chapter Two Hundred and Twenty Three
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�Where are we going?� IreLyn asked for the third time as she followed Dakota and Kristin down the hallway. She had this sinking feeling they were up to something, but neither were giving anything away. Normally she could read each one of them like a book, but either they had turned up their acting skills to throw her off, or it was just her imagination.
Kristin threw Dakota a glance, hoping she had come up with something, because try as she may she couldn�t come up with a damn reason to get IreLyn in the bar. She nearly sighed out loud with relief when Dakota smiled reassuringly and turned towards IreLyn.
�Well, Lissa�s parents brought all the gifts and set them in the bar area since it�s closed, and we�ve promised to take them all out to the car, but there are more than we expected, and we need some help.� Dakota informed her, crossing her fingers behind her back. She wasn�t one to lie, and hated lying, but under the circumstances, it was called for.
�Oh, okay.� IreLyn smiled. �No problem.�
Dakota and Kristin shared a secret look as the reached the bar. Kristin had already unlocked the bar earlier before coming to get Dakota, so they all three walked in.
�Uh, guys, where are the gifts?� IreLyn asked looking around the dark room. The curtains were drawn and it was pretty dark in there, but even without much light she could see there weren�t any wedding presents.
�Huh. I could have sworn her parents said the bar. Maybe I got it wrong, guess I better to double check. I�ll be right back.� Dakota said as she turned and walked out quickly.
Kristin fought to keep back the grin that was threatening to break through. �Good acting, Kody.� She thought to herself, praising her friend. �Okay, now it�s my turn.�
�Oh damn.� Kristin muttered, just loud enough for IreLyn to hear.
IreLyn looked questioningly at her sister. �What�s up?�
�I forgot to get Marshall�s keys.� Kristin shook her head. �I swear I would forget my own head if it weren�t attached.�
IreLyn opened her mouth to comment, but cut it off with a giggle when she got a warning look from Kristin. �So I�m guessing we�re putting the presents in Marshall�s car?�
Kristin nodded. �Yup. Made the most sense since he and I are staying at Kevin and Lissa�s while they are on their honeymoon. I better go get the keys, I�ll be right back.�
IreLyn moved to go with her sister. �Where are you going?� Kristin demanded.
IreLyn gave her a funny look. �With you.�
�NO!� she nearly yelled, then smiled to cover it up. �Um, I mean, no one is supposed to be in here, the room isn�t even supposed to be unlocked since the bar is closed. Could you please stay here to make sure no one comes in here?� Kristin pleaded. �I�ll only be a moment.�
�Hey!� IreLyn stopped her by putting a hand on her arm. Kristin looked at her a little fearfully afraid that she had figured out what she and Dakota were up too.
�Yeah?�
�I just wanted to tell you how happy I am for you and Marshall. I know you two will have a wonderful life together.� IreLyn said sincerely. Kristin had to fight to keep the tears at bay.
�Thank you.� She whispered and gave her sister a tight hug before turning and disappearing out the door and closing it behind her.
She was half way down the hall when she heard Dakota and Brett coming in her direction. She quickly ducked into a nearby room and waited for them to pass. She heard Dakota thanking him for helping her with the presents and knew that was her cue.
She stepped out of the room just as Dakota and Brett reached the bar door. �KODY!� she yelled, pretending she was a little out of breath, like she had chased after them from the dining room.
Dakota and Brett turned to face her. �What�s wrong?� Dakota asked.
�Lissa can�t find her purse, didn�t you have it after the wedding?� she asked, making herself look a little frantic.
Dakota shook her head. �No, I haven�t seen it. I thought you were taking care of that!�
�Oh god, it�s got her credit cards, travelers checks, everything! I really don�t want to be the one to tell her that it�s gone!� Kristin cried.
�Do you think maybe her Mom picked up her purse?� Brett offered helpfully, looking from one woman to the other.
�I hope so!� Kristin began wringing her hands together in distress.
�It�s going to be okay, we�ll find it. You go to the rooms and double check, and I�ll go check with her mom, okay?� Dakota offered, then turned to look at Brett. �Listen, if you don�t mind, can you get the presents together, and we�ll send one of the guys to help you take them out to the car. I�m sorry to bail on you like this.�
Brett shook his head. �It�s not a problem, I understand. Don�t worry about it, I�ll get all the presents myself. Just go help Lissa.�
�Thanks, you�re a lifesaver.� Dakota gave him a quick kiss on the cheek then rushed off down the hallway. Kristin sent him an apologetic smile then hurried after Dakota. Once they rounded the corner, they both stopped and snuck a look. They held their breath as Brett opened the door and walked in and shut it behind him.
Before Dakota even had a chance to open her mouth, Kristin was off and down the hall, pulling the keys she had acquired from the manger out of her pocket. She quickly locked the door, then walked back towards Dakota, a smug smirk on her face.
�Well, I must say, that was easier than I thought it would be.� Kristin grinned.
�We are damn good.� Dakota praised themselves with a laugh. �That was some damn fine acting on your part, I must say!�
�And you too. We should be in Hollywood!�
�So what do we do now when people start to notice that Brett and IreLyn are missing. I don�t know about everyone else, but I know two people who are going to be looking at us rather closely.� Dakota grimaced at having to face Dale and Marshall.
�We�ll worry about that when the times comes. As for right now, we just play dumb.� Kristin laughed.
�Dumb huh. That shouldn�t be too hard.� Dakota teased.
�Come on, I want to get back and leave our prisoners be for a little while. We�ll come back to check on them later. Besides I want to see Lissa before she leaves.� Kristin grinned. Together she and Dakota made their way back to the dining area, innocent smiles on both their faces.
2002/2003 K&K Productions
