Chapter One

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Caelin Hudson slammed her car door shut and raced as fast as she could up to the front door of her parent�s house, trying desperately to dodge the rain drops, but after a few steps gave up. She knew she was going to get soaked regardless of what she did.

She walked through the front door, shaking the water from her hair as she called out. �Mom? Dad? I�m here!�

Her mother came out from the kitchen wiping her hand on the towel she was carrying as she came forward to hug her daughter. �Honey, you�re early! How was your day?� she asked, smiling lovingly.

Caelin shrugged as she dropped her bag out of the way in the hallway and shrugged out of her jacket. �It was long�and boring. I swear sometimes I don�t understand why I still put myself through this.� She sighed as she wrapped her arm around her mom and followed her into the kitchen.

�Honey, ever since you were old enough to play dress up, you has wanted to be a model. And you are, and one of the best at that. You should be proud of your accomplishments.� Her mother said, going back to chopping up vegetables for dinner. She shooed her daughter away when Caelin moved to help. �Sit down and relax.�

Caelin sighed again as she sank down at the kitchen table. �I am proud of what I�ve done, but I�m just getting fed up. I want�more. I just feel like something is missing.�

Her mother raised an eyebrow as she tried not to grin. �Maybe a husband and kids?�

Caelin groaned as she buried her head in her hands. �Oh Mom! Please don�t start!�

�Shirley, don�t start bugging her about getting married and starting a family before dinner!� a deep voice said. Caelin�s eyes lit up as she turned around and found her father coming in.

�Daddy!� she exclaimed as she jumped up and rushed forward throwing her arms around her father, heedless to the wetness of his suite.

�Hello, Sunshine. Is your mother bugging you again?� he teased.

�Oh Charles, you�re just as anxious to be a grandfather as I am a grandmother so don�t even try it!� Shirley scolded. Caelin couldn�t help but roll her eyes.

�Come on you guys! I�m not the only child you have! Why don�t I ever hear you bugging Rayne about getting married?� she asked.

�Well, you�re our first born. We just assumed you would get married first. Besides, you know how your sister is with relationships.�

�And just how am I with relationships?�

They all turned to find Rayne standing there, her lips twitching as she waiting to hear the answer.

Charles, Shirley and Caelin all answered at the same time. �Horrible!�

Rayne just laughed as she stepped in the kitchen. �I am not! I�m just really picky!�

Shirley looked at Caelin. �See what I mean? I�m afraid you�re my only hope to ever having grandchildren.�

Rayne paused as she started searching through the frigate. �Is there a certain man in your life I was unaware of?� she asked her sister. Caelin shook her head.

�Nope, much to Mom�s disappointment.� She grinned.

***

�Awww, man I am stuffed!� Rayne huffed as she sank down on the couch next to her sister. �So, I haven�t talked to you in a few days, what�s been going on?� she asked.

Caelin closed her eyes as she ran her fingers through her hair. �Shoot after shoot.�

�Gee, how horrible. I mean who in their right mind would like to go to some exotic place and have their pictures taken?� Rayne teased, nudging her sister in her side.

Caelin cut her eyes at her. �It�s not like that and you know it, you�ve been to enough shoots with me.�

Rayne laughed. �I know I�m just teasing. Hey if you wanna quit, we have an opening down at the clinic.� She offered. Caelin smiled and shook her head.

�Nah, thanks anyway, but you�re the Dr. Doolittle of the family, not me.� Caelin smiled proudly at her younger sister. �Besides, I�m not saying I want to quit modeling, I�m just getting burnt out, I guess. In all honestly I don�t know what the hell I�m gonna do.�

She closed her eyes as she willed herself to relax. She was nearly 30 years old, but still one of the top models in the country. She had been modeling since she was very young, and really couldn�t imagine doing anything different, yet at the same time, just like she had told her mother, she wanted something more.

Sometimes, she looked at her sister, and wished she could be more like Rayne. Her younger sister was 26, and had her own veterinary practice. Just like Caelin, Rayne had known what she was going to be from the moment she could first talk.

�Oh hey, nearly forgot, Thomas wants to know if you�re available for the shoot in Cancun.� Caelin asked, although she already knew the answer. She loved her agent dearly, but he didn�t know how to take �no� for an answer.

Rayne snorted as she shook her head. �And I hope you told him no way in hell. Look, I help out one time when one of the other models got sick. It was a one-time deal. I am not a model, never was and never will be. When will he get that?�

�He thinks you�re missing your calling. �An opportunity of a lifetime�.� She quoted.

�Whatever.� Rayne answered, completely dismissing the conversation from her mind. Suddenly she sat straight up in her seat. �Oh! Speaking of nearly forgetting!�

Caelin eyed her sister cautiously. �What?�

�Nikki and I have tickets to tomorrow night�s concert at the arena. Spent a pretty penny on them as well. Her brother hooked her up with some back stage passes as well. Unfortunately, her boss sent her out of town at the last minute and she won�t be back in time for the concert. Wanna go with me?� she asked.

Caelin thought about it for a moment. She hadn�t been able to spend a lot of one on one time with her sister for a few months now, so a night out together sounded just like what she needed. She and Rayne had always been more like best friends than sisters, and over the past couple weeks she had found herself missing Rayne more and more.

�Count me in!� Caelin exclaimed, her eyes shinning brightly for the first time in awhile. �Whom are we going to see?� she asked, although it really didn�t matter to her. Just a night out sounded heavenly.

�Fuel.� Rayne grinned, knowing full well Fuel was Caelin�s favorite group, as well as her own. Caelin shot off the couch as she stared down at Rayne in disbelief.

�Are you shitting me?� she demanded. Rayne laughed.

�No I�m not �shitting you�. I would have gotten you tickets before hand, but I didn�t think you�d be in town, and it was kinda a spur of the moment idea to go. But it worked out perfectly as it is�well not for Nikki, but for you at least!� she grinned and stood up.

�I can�t believe this! You�re the best sister ever!� Caelin exclaimed. Rayne grinned.

�I know! And just think, maybe tomorrow night you�ll meet Mr. Right and get Mom and Dad off your back!� Rayne teased.

Before Caelin could respond their parents walked back in the room. �Are you two going to stay here tonight?� Shirley asked, loving having her children back in the house, even if only temporarily.

Rayne shook her head. �I�d love to Mom, but I�ve got to go in early tomorrow morning. Mr. Decan�s dog has taken a turn for the worst, and I want to run some tests and get them done before everyone else gets in there. So, I�m going to head home, but I�ll call you all tomorrow. Caelin, call me later, we�ll discuss tomorrow night.�

�Sounds good!� After saying their good-byes, Rayne left leaving Caelin with her parents.

�Honey, should I pull down your bed for you tonight, or are you going back to your place?� Shirley asked. Caelin knew she was going to have to go home to her cold lonely house at some point, but she really didn�t feel like it just yet.

�I�d love to stay.� She smiled. �But only if you don�t start bombarding me with suggestions of marriage and kids!�

***

Caelin opened the door and watched with and amused smirk as her sister made her way up to the door.

�Sorry I�m late!� Rayne gasped, her face slightly flushed. �This day has been hell! One emergency after another!�

Caelin smiled sympathetically as she stepped back to let Rayne in. �But I�m sure Dr. Hudson handled everything perfectly.�

Rayne shrugged. �Yeah well, sometimes it�s hard being as perfect as myself.� She said nonchalantly. The sisters looked at each other and burst out laughing. �Whew!� Rayne gasped as she struggled to catch her breath. �I needed that!�

�You ready to go?� Caelin asked, anxious to get to the arena.

�Yup. Sure am. Man, we are going to have so much fun tonight! And just think we get to meet the guys afterwards. I�m so gonna owe Nikki�s brother for this!�

�Just sleep with him and you�ll be even.�

Rayne stopped in her tracks as her mouth fell open. Caelin cracked up as she watched her sister struggling to find her words. �I�m kidding!� she exclaimed. �But you and I both know Seth has been after you for years!�

Rayne shuddered at the thought. �That�s just nasty! He�s six years younger than me, and he�s like the little brother I�ve never had, nor wanted!�

�You�re a mess girl!� Caelin laughed as she led the way out the front door.

�Me?� Rayne exclaimed. �You�re the one who just suggested I sleep with someone as payment for tickets and backstage passes! Sometimes it�s very hard to believe you and I are related!� she grinned.

Caelin grinned at her over her shoulder, all the stress she�d been feeling lately suddenly gone. �Yeah well, all the good genes were given to the first born�you got the leftovers.�

Rayne playfully glared at Caelin as she climbed in the car. �I swear I was adopted!� She groaned as she rubbed her eyes, giggling when she felt Caelin punch her in the arm.

�Okay, we�re off!� Caelin stated as she backed out of her driveway.

�Look out Fuel�cuz here come the Hudson sisters!� Rayne exclaimed excitedly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Two

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Rayne glanced over at her sister and giggled as she watched Caelin look at her watch for about the millionth time in the last ten or so minutes and then sigh heavily. The opening band had just started their set and it wasn't that they weren't good...they were very good, but both of them were too anxious to see Fuel to even be able to enjoy the band that was currently on stage. It really didn't help that they could see all of Fuel's equipment already on the stage...their guitars and even the drum kit. Rayne has to laugh a little bit as she noticed how much bigger Fuel's drum set was compared to the other band. There were also more guitars...three or four bass and probably six to eight that Carl and Brett used. Seeing all of it only served to heighten the anticipation.

After what seemed like forever, the opening band was finished. Much to both of the girls' dismay, there was an intermission between sets. "You want a beer? I can go get them if you want to stay here and hold our spots." Rayne asked needing something...anything to distract herself from the minutes that were ticking away much too slowly. They had managed to squeeze their way through the crowd and had ended up in what would be the front row...if there were rows. The men had gladly moved out of their way to let them closer to the stage while the woman gave them death glares, but neither Rayne nor Caelin much cared at the moment. It was a rare time when both girls used there stunning good looks to their advantage. They both felt a moment's guilt for wanting to get closer when they already had passes to meet the band afterwards, but they quickly got over it.

Caelin shook her head. "Thanks, but I think I'll pass." She replied, not being much of a drinker. She never had been. Water was by far the beverage of choice.

The words were barely out of her mouth when the house lights suddenly dropped and Fuel's entrance music began to play. Rayne and Caelin looked at each other, their eyes wide before they turned their attention to the stage. Through the generated smoke, they could make out the band members as they took the stage.

Caelin and Rayne sang every song word for word, both mesmerized by the raw energy and passion of the band. They knew that if they were asked to put it into words, there would be no words to be able to justly describe seeing Fuel live and in person.

All too soon, it was over and the anticipation started all over again as they made their way over to the side of the stage where the people with passes were being instructed to go.

"Damn girl, would you relax!" Rayne teased her sister as she watched her fidgeting from one foot to the other. She giggled as Caelin blushed.

"Sorry." Caelin mumbled. "But incase you haven't noticed, those guys are sexy as hell. Especially the drummer. Damn, he is one of God's finer creations!" She told her sister. "Now that man I could see myself being married to and having kids with." She said jokingly.

Before Rayne was able to comment, one of the security guys came out and told them to follow him. The band was ready to meet them.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Three

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The sisters, along with a handful of other people who had backstage passes, were ushered to a room in the back. Caelin and Rayne stood off to the side, away from everyone else, just taking in everything around them.

They both felt tingles run down their spine and turned simultaneously, their breaths catching when they found the four members of Fuel standing there. Rayne reached out and grabbed her sister�s arm.

�Oh holy shit.� She murmured.

�I think I�ve died and gone to heaven.� Caelin whispered softly, making sure only her sister could hear her. Although she was looking forward to meeting them all, her eyes were drawn to Kevin. Her eyes widened and she could feel the heat spreading through her body when her eyes met his blue ones and held.

Rayne also noticed this and couldn�t help but grin knowingly. �I don�t think you�re the only one transfixed, sister dear.� She giggled.

***

�Damn!� Carl whistled under his breath, nudging Jeff who was next to him.

�And all our fans can�t look like that because?� Jeff asked with a grin.

�I say we save those two for last.� Brett smiled mischievously, his eyes roaming appreciatively over the two gorgeous females standing a few feet away. �What do you think Kev?� he asked.

They all three turned to the drummer when he failed to answer, his eyes still glued to the women. Brett smirked. �I think he agrees.�

Rayne and Caelin watched as the men made their way through the crowd of people, then watched as the fans left slowly from the room, until there was only three other fans besides themselves.

Caelin spun around to look at her sister. �I don�t think I can do this!� she whispered. Rayne raised an eyebrow.

�Why not?� she asked, her hands on her hips.

�Well, because�I don�t� know! I just can�t.�

�Oh please!� Rayne hissed. �You are one of the most sought after women on the planet�every male wants you, and every female wants to be you. Give yourself a little credit! Hell these guys should be stumbling all over themselves to get to you!�

Caelin looked at her sister as if she suddenly sprouted another head, then started giggling. �Thanks, you always know how to calm me down.�

Rayne nodded and tilted her head. �Good thing, cuz it�s our turn.�

Caelin slowly turned back around her breath once again catching when she found the Fuel standing in front of her. She took a deep breath and smiled warmly at them all, but it was Kevin who completely captivated her. He must have sensed it because he stepped forward and held out his hand.

�It�s a pleasure to meet you.� He said smoothly, as he took her hand in his. Both their eyes widened when jolts traveled through them at that simple touch. Caelin broke the hold first and took a slight step back.

�It�s nice to meet you�all of you.� She said, as she looked at the other members of the group. �I�m Caelin, and this is my sister Rayne.�

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Chapter Four

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Jeff came forward next, moving Kevin out of the way. "It's a pleasure to meet you." He said as he shook Rayne's hand and then turned to Caelin. He stared at her, deep in thought. "You look familiar." He commented after a few seconds. "Where have I seen you before?"

Caelin blushed and Rayne snickered beside her. "That's a pick-up line if I've ever heard one." Rayne couldn't help but tease. She giggled as the color in Jeff's cheeks began to match Caelin's.

Carl stepped forward, a smirk on his face as he nudged Jeff in the side. "I got ya covered, buddy." He told Jeff before turning his attention back to the two women.

"Normally Jeff is an outrageous flirt, but I think he's being completely serious this time." He said and then looked directly at Caelin. "You do look familiar."

"She's in the calendar that we have on the bus. Miss July, I do believe." Brett said from where he still stood behind them, beside Kevin.

"Caelin is a world famous model. I'm sure you've seen her face plastered all over the place." Rayne told them and then cringed a little bit when she saw the look that her sister was currently giving her. She knew that Caelin liked people to get to know HER before they knew what she did for a living. But she couldn't help herself...she was so very proud of her sister. And in this case, as in many others, the guys already recognized her and it would have only been a matter of time before they figured it out anyway.

"Sorry Cae." Rayne apologized anyway as she smiled sheepishly at her sister.

"Accepted." Caelin replied, a smile of her own beginning to form on her lips.

"You guys were amazing tonight." Caelin began, turning her attention back to the band members. "I've loved your music for a while now, but whenever you were in the area before, I was gone on a photo shoot or something and I always missed out. So this is my first time seeing you live and you definitely blew me away."

"We're glad you enjoyed the show." Carl said, but Caelin had become oblivious. Feeling his eyes on her, she turned and looked at Kevin, their eyes meeting again. She was vaguely aware of the other guys talking to Rayne, but they seemed a million miles away from Kevin and herself.

Kevin had to remind himself to breathe as he took in her beautiful features again. At about 5' 8" and with her flawless skin, blond hair, and shimmering blue eyes, she was...perfect.

The spell that had woven itself around them was abruptly cut off when Kevin's cell phone began ringing. He mumbled an apology before excusing himself and stepping outside the room to take the call.

"I bet that's Julie." Brett commented to the guys and they nodded on agreement. "His fianc�e." He clarified when he saw the confusion in Caelin and Rayne's eyes.

"Oh." Caelin said softly, her disappointment obviously showing before she hid it from them.

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Chapter Five

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�So, Rayne, do you model as well?� Carl asked, trying to save Caelin from any discomfort. �You seem�vaguely familiar as well.� Caelin was grateful for the distraction, anything to keep her mind off the man standing right out side the room.

�Hey, now that he mentions it, you do!� Brett exclaimed, smiling as he watched Rayne blushing furiously.

�Uh, I�m not a model.� She mumbled, looking down at the ground. Caelin laughed and stepped forward.

�Don�t be modest Ray. She did do one shoot, and did a wonderful job. The magazine she did it for has had a huge demand for more pictures, and my agent is constantly getting bombarded with calls wanting both sisters.� Caelin smiled.

Rayne lifted her head. �I�m not a model.� She restated. �I�m a doctor.� She stated, not going into what kind.

Brett�s eyebrows went up. �Wow, that�s impressive. I bet your patience just love having you for a doctor.�

Caelin couldn�t resist. �Oh they just love her! Everyone says she�s got that magic touch!� The glare she got from her sister was almost frightening.

Rayne turned to the guys who were grinning down at her. �It�s not like that. I�m a�� She trailed off when Kevin walked back in.

�Sorry about that.� He apologized, his eyes once again drawn to Caelin, who was trying her hardest to avoid his gaze. He was acting like a teenager. Hell even as a teenager he had more control than he did around this woman. And he didn�t even know what it was about her.

Sure she was absolutely breathtaking, but for that matter so was her sister. They were equal in height, and there was no denying the fact that they were sisters. Both had long wavy hair and blue eyes, but Caelin was fairer complected than her sister was. Rayne�s skin looked like she had a tan, but from the texture you could tell she was just darker complected. Her hair was a dark brown, nearly black, with natural highlights that stood out when the light hit it. Her eyes, although blue like her sisters, were more of an aqua color.

But their differences ended there. If you make Rayne lighter or Caelin darker, surely they could have been twins. Their height and build were identical.

�Kevin!�

He snapped out of his thoughts as he looked at Carl confused. �What?� he asked.

Carl shook his head. �Damn man, space out much?�

�Sorry. What did you want?�

�We�re starving.� Brett answered. �And we were gonna ask these two lovely ladies if they would like to join us for a quick bite to eat.� He said as he threw his arm around Rayne�s shoulder who laughed.

Caelin�s eyes widened. Could she really go to dinner and sit across the table from this man? She quickly found her answer. Before anyone could say anything she reached out and grabbed her sister�s arm and pulled her back next to her.

�I�m sorry. We�d love to go, but we have to get going. I�ve got, um, an early flight tomorrow morning to, uh, somewhere so I really can�t be out late.� She smiled shakily, hoping it looked apologetic. She ignored the shocked look she was receiving from her sister.

�It was wonderful meeting each and every one of you. As I said I thoroughly enjoyed your performance. I�ll be sure to try to get tickets the next time I�m in the same area where you�re playing.� She promised.

Rayne could tell something was up with her sister, and when she looked over at Kevin who was still staring, she quickly figured out what it was. So, she decided to play along.

She nodded sadly. �You�re right. And I�ve got early appointments in the morning. Damn.�

All four members looked disappointed, but none more than Kevin who still couldn�t seem to tear his eyes away from Caelin. He stepped forward before he was able to stop himself and pulled her into a hug.

�It was a pleasure meeting you.� He whispered, inhaling deeply, memorizing not only her scent but also the way she felt in his arms. He found himself not wanting to let go.

Caelin shivered when she felt his breath on her cheek. She fought the urge to press closer to him. She pulled back and gave him a small smile as she pushed her hair back behind her ear before turning to the other members of Fuel to say her good byes. From the outside it looked as if she was calm, cool and collected, where on the inside all her attention was focused on Kevin.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Six

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�I need a vacation!� Rayne exclaimed as she burst through the door of her parent�s house for their weekly supper. She wasn�t surprised to find Caelin already there, since she herself was running nearly an hour late. �I�m sorry I�m so late. I hope you all aren�t too starved!�

�Nope, but dinner is ready now, so have a seat.� Shirley gestured towards the kitchen. The two siblings followed their mother, grinning when they saw their father sampling from the potatoes.

�Charles!� Shirley scolded, biting back her own grin when he jumped guiltily and quickly sat down.

�So, anything interesting going on with my two favorite girls?� Charles asked as they ate. Caelin shook her head.

�Nothing here. I�m leaving in a few days for a shoot in Miami that shouldn�t take more than a few days. At least that�s what I�m hoping.� She grinned, then turned to look at her sister. �How�s your schedule look? You could always take some much needed time off and come with me.�

Rayne was sorely tempted; she was in desperate need of a few days away and this would be perfect. But it was also kind of last minute. But she knew her staff was more than competent, and she had full faith in them all to hold down the office while she was away.

�Hmmm, sounds really good to me!� she grinned. �I�ll check with Dr. Thompson, see what he says, and if it�s alright with him, then I�ll go with you.�

Caelin raised an eyebrow. �Why do you need to check with him? You�re the boss, remember. He works for you.� She teased. Rayne rolled her eyes.

�Yes I�m aware of that, but I don�t want to just leave him high and dry. I want to make sure he�s comfortable with me leaving.� Rayne explained.

�Will you do another shoot?� Shirley asked after taking a bite of her pasta. Rayne�s eyes grew wide and she shook her head from side to side.

�Good lord no!� she exclaimed. �I am so not a photogenic person. I nearly had a heart attack the one time I helped Caelin out. She�s the model of the family, not me!�

Later that evening the sisters were out in the driveway talking as they prepared to leave. �So, still got Kevin on the brain?� Rayne asked the question that had been bugging her all evening.

Caelin shook her head. �I can�t seem to get him off my mind. What is with me Rayne? I don�t get like this over men�especially men who are unavailable! It�s starting to drive me insane. I just need to get my mind off him and let any and all thought of him go!� She sighed.

�I think this trip to Miami is exactly what we both need!� Rayne exclaimed.

***

�Caelin!�

Both women had just stepped off the plane and turned to find Thomas standing there, his eyes lighting when he saw both sisters. �Rayne! What a pleasure it is to see you!� he exclaimed as he rushed forward to give them both a tight hug.

�It�s good to see you too, Thomas.� Rayne answered.

�Dare I ask if you�re here to do another shoot with your sister?� he asked, his eyes glowing with excitement and hope. That light was quickly extinguished when she frowned and shook her head.

�Nope. I�m here on vacation only!� she declared. Caelin stepped forward and looked at Thomas.

�This is a much deserved vacation for her, Tom, so please don�t bug her.� She pleaded. Thomas, although obviously disappointed nodded in understanding.

�Say no more! Come on, let�s get your bags, then we�re off to the hotel.�

The girls had just finished unpacking and were relaxing in the suite when Thomas came strolling in. �Okay, Ray you enjoy relaxing, Caelin you need to work.�

Caelin groaned good naturedly. �Figures.�

�Listen, we�ve added something to your schedule this weekend.� Thomas told her, as he looked at the papers in his hands.

Caelin sat up straighter. �Oh really? Like what? I thought this was just supposed to be a photo shoot.�

Thomas nodded. �Originally it was, but that�s been changed. You see, about five miles down the road is Homestead Miami Speedway.�

Both girls looked at each other confused. �So what does that have to do with me?� Caelin asked.

�Let me finish. As I was saying, the speedway is a few miles away, and the last race for the NASCAR season is this weekend. They need a grand marshal, and when they heard you were going to be in town, they asked for you.�

�Grand marshal? What exactly is that?� Caelin asked. Rayne laughed.

�How many races have we watched with Daddy? Duh! The Grand Marshal is the one who says �Gentlemen Start Your Engines�!� she said.

Caelin�s eyes lit up. �Oh cool! Sure, I�ll do it, sounds like fun! Oh wait, does Rayne get to go?�

Thomas grinned. �I�m sure we can arrange it. Right before the race you�ll meet and greet all the drivers, then you�ll do your thing, then if you�d like you can stay for the race, or leave.�

�I think I�d like to stay. It�s been years since I�ve been able to sit and watch a race. Should be fun!� Caelin said, looking forward to the upcoming Sunday.

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Chapter Seven

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Kevin Miller stood back after knocking on the door, waiting for someone to answer. He frowned when he didn�t hear any movement inside. He�d been told this was where he could find his friend, but it looked as if he wasn�t there.

He sighed and started walking away, then stopped when he heard his name being called. He turned around and grinned when he saw the man in the red uniform walking rapidly towards him.

�Junior!� he greeted, shaking his long time friend�s hand. �How ya been man? I was just looking for you.�

Dale Earnhardt Jr. grinned as he crossed his arms over his chest. �Got held up by some fans. I saw you walking to my coach. How�s it going? Haven�t seen in ages.�

Kevin nodded. �Things have been going rather well. Can�t complain.�

�Everything ready for the wedding?� Dale asked, then interrupted before Kevin could answer. �Come on, let�s go back to my coach and chill. You�ve got about an hour before you need to be on stage, and I don�t have anything to do for a little while. We can catch up.�

�Sounds good.� Kevin answered as he followed the young Earnhardt to his motor home. The two had known each other for years. Kevin�s ex-wife was Dale�s sister�s best friend. Through them Dale and Kevin had formed a strong friendship.

�So you didn�t have anything to do with us performing for the last race of the year did ya?� Kevin asked with a smirk. Dale shrugged.

�Maybe just a little. I just happened to mention what an awesome band you all are, and that they should wait until the end of the year for after you�d released your new album. The higher ups just happened to listen to me!� he laughed.

�How are you and Tracie doing?� Kevin asked, grimacing when Dale frowned and the light in his eyes faded. Tracie was Dale�s girlfriend of the past few months, and the last Kevin had heard things had been going great. Now, however he was seeing different.

Dale sat back on the sofa, propping his feet up on the table. �Tracie is�Tracie.� He mumbled. �I gotta break things off with her, and I know it sounds horrible, but I just haven�t had the time.�

Kevin�s eyes widened. �The time?� he struggled not to laugh. Dale nodded.

�I don�t normally bring her to races, so the only time we have together is when I�m home�which anymore isn�t very often with all the public appearances I�ve been doing. I�d say in the past three weeks we�ve spent maybe two days together. Two hellish days.� He sighed.

�But I thought things were going so well.� Kevin remarked.

�They were, until she turned totally possessive, whiny, controlling, needy, bitchy�� he trailed off when he ran out of words. �I don�t know Kev, sometimes I think it�s just better to be single�which I will be after I get back home and talk to her.�

�So she�s not here this weekend?� Kevin asked. Dale shook his head.

�Hell no! On to a better subject. How�s Julie?� Dale asked of Kevin�s fianc�. He truly liked the other woman, but he honestly didn�t see Kevin and Julie lasting �forever�. Julie and Tracie had a hell of a lot in common and Dale knew he wouldn�t be able to put up with that shit for too long, and he seriously doubted Kevin would either.

�She�s good. Busy making wedding plans.� Kevin answered, not realizing how unenthusiastic he sounded. Dale however didn�t miss it.

�Tell me how ya really feel.� He grinned. Kevin looked surprised then sighed.

�It�s nothing.� He answered.

�Sure.�

�Oh alright. I thought that Julie was everything I�d ever want. But now�� he trailed off.

�What�s her name?� Dale asked. Kevin�s head jerked up.

�Excuse me?�

�I said, what�s her name?� Dale repeated, grinning widely.

�I-I don�t know what you�re talking about.� Kevin feebly protested.

Dale threw his head back and laughed. �Yeah right! The look you have about you just screams another woman. Come on, what�s her name?�

Kevin sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. �Caelin.� He muttered.

Dale shot up in his seat his blue eyes wide in amazement. There was only one person he knew with a name like that. �Caelin Hudson? The model?�

Kevin nodded. �The one and only.�

Dale whistled as he sat back once more. �Damn buddy, you sure do know how to pick �em. She�s hot as hell!� Kevin glared at the younger man but Dale didn�t seem to notice. �I mean, I don�t think there�s a man alive who hasn�t several hot dreams with her in them.�

Kevin turned up his glare. �Thanks, Dale, I needed to know that.� Dale chuckled.

�So, where did ya meet her?�

�At a concert a couple weeks back. She and her sister came backstage.� Kevin closed his eyes, once again picturing Caelin in his mind, how she had looked that night. He had seen many magazines and billboards with her on them, and although every picture was breathtaking, nothing compared to seeing her in person.

Dale sat forward once again, his interest peaked. �Sister?� He racked his brain, trying to remember back to the articles he�d read on Ms. Caelin Hudson. He vaguely remembered her mentioning a sister, but he couldn�t recall any details.

Kevin answered without opening his eyes. �Yeah, sister. Riley, Raven or something like that. Sorry, I honestly wasn�t paying too much attention to her sister that night.�

�Well you�ve got to tell me, does this Riley or Raven share of her sister�s good looks, or did God only bless one person with looks like that?� Dale asked with a grin. Kevin shook his head and laughed.

�Oh, it�s definitely a family trait!� Kevin smiled, remembering the two girls. �The sister is just as beautiful as Caelin, but don�t ask me any more details on her, because I really don�t know.�

�Hmm�does the sister model too?� Dale couldn�t help but ask. Kevin shot him a look.

�Didn�t I just say not to asked me anymore questions!� he shot back.

Dale laughed. �Damn you really do have it bad! Well, today is your lucky day, buddy.� Dale stood up. Kevin stood up as well and looked at him.

�Huh?�

�You haven�t heard who the grand marshal for today�s race is have you?� Dale grinned from ear to ear, his blue eyes twinkling mischievously as he glanced down at his watch. �Oh and look at the time. I need to get out there with the other drivers to meet the Grand Marshal.�

Kevin�s eyes widened in shock and disbelief. Surely it couldn�t be�could it?

Dale read the look and nodded. �Yup, Caelin Hudson. Come on,� he said grabbing his shocked friend's arm leading him towards the door. �I�ll let you and the guys come with me when I meet her.�

***

Brett spotted Kevin and Dale walking towards them and couldn�t help the smile that spread. He sauntered up to them and looked at Kevin�s dazed expression. �I take you�re heard who's here.� Kevin just nodded.

�He�s in shock right now.� Dale laughed. �Come on you guys, if you wanna see her then hurry your asses up. My guys will kill me if I�m late for introduction.�

As they walked to the designated area Dale looked over at Brett. �So you were there when Kevin met Caelin, right?� he asked. Brett nodded.

�Yup, and since talking to her, our Kevin hasn�t been the same since.� Brett snickered, ducking when Kevin took a playful swing at him.

�So, since I�m assuming you weren�t as transfixed as Kevin, you paid more attention to the sister than he did.� Dale said hopefully. Brett nodded, still grinning.

�Yes, and praise to God for making not one, but two women like that!� Brett declared. �Whew!�

�So, details please!� Dale exclaimed growing impatient.

�Her name is Rayne.� Brett paused when Dale glared at Kevin.

�Damn you really didn�t pay much attention to her, did you? Riley or Raven?� Kevin shrugged.

�Sorry, I warned ya!� he smiled.

Dale shook his head and turned back to Brett, signaling for him to continue as they walked. �She�s a few years younger than Caelin, and I believe she�s a doctor, although I�m sure what kind of medicine she practices.� Dale nodded, impressed. �Damn.�

�Yeah, damn shame she won�t be here. She was something. The guys and I talked to her while Kevin monopolized Caelin�s time.� Brett laughed, earning a glare from his drummer.

They stopped walking when Kevin Harvick walked up to them. �Hey all. Looking forward to your guy's performances.� He grinned his classic Harvick smile before turning to Dale. �Man, you gotta get up there.� He gestured towards the stage. �There are two of the finest looking�� he trailed off looking around to make sure his wife wasn�t in hearing distance. �Women I have ever laid eyes on!�

Dale and Kevin looked at each other, Dale�s eyes lighting up with excitement as Kevin felt those jolts running through him. Without another word, they all headed towards the steps that would take them up to the stage, and face to face with Caelin and Rayne Hudson.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Eight

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

They made it up the stairs all right until they reached the last two. Dale's steps faltered a bit when he saw Rayne for the first time and Kevin stumbled when his eyes touched on Caelin and she happened to around at that exact moment. He would have certainly fallen backwards if Carl, who was behind him, hadn't reached out and steadied him.

"Real smooth, Miller." Carl couldn't help the comment from slipping out. He smiled and held his hands up defensively when Kevin glared at him over his shoulder.

Collecting himself again, Kevin tore his eyes away from Caelin with great effort and tried to concentrate on something...anything else but the beautiful woman who had been a constant in his mind over the past several weeks. He groaned inwardly as he walked past her and felt her eyes on him and he was unable to stop his own from meeting hers.

Caelin reminded herself that he was taken and forced herself to look away although she wasn't able to stop the pounding of her heart or the effect that he had on her inside.

"You didn't tell me they were going to be here." Rayne said to Caelin, gesturing to the members of Fuel as they all walked onto the stage.

"I didn't know." Caelin mumbled, but if Rayne heard her, she didn't show it for all of her attention had been completely taken the moment Dale Earnhardt Jr. walked onto the stage and made his way over to where they were standing.

"Hello Rayne. It is a pleasure to meet you " Dale said, easily seeing the shock light her eyes at him knowing her name. He held his hand out to her and when she slipped her hand into his, his arm literally tingled even from just that casual touch.

Rayne's eyes widened and she felt the same jolts surging through her. "You too." She said, grimacing when her voice came out barely a squeak.

His body taking a mind of it's own, Kevin soon found himself walking over to where Caelin was standing now alone. His breath caught sharply in his throat when she heard his approaching footsteps and looked up. "Hi." Kevin managed to say, thankful that his voice had decided to cooperate with him. "It's nice to see you again, Caelin." He knew that he was staring, but he couldn't help it. The image that he'd been carrying around in his mind over the weeks didn't even come close to doing her justice. His heart skipped a beat when a slight breeze blew through her hair, making her even more breathtaking than he could possibly imagine.

Caelin nearly fainted at the way his voice sounded when he spoke her name. She then sighed inwardly and again reminded herself that he was with someone. She told herself that she was strong enough to get through this. It was only one day and then after that she was going back home and she and Kevin would most likely never see each other again. Yes, she could get through this day. She smiled brightly at him. "It's good to see you again too." She told him, wondering if he had any idea just how true that statement was.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Nine

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Caelin stared deep into his eyes, neither willing to look away. Mentally shaking herself, she tore her gaze away and focused on the other men around her. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly, trying to control herself. She could still feel his eyes on her and shifted from one foot to the other.

She looked at her sister for help, and it was then that she noticed the man standing before Rayne, both of them also staring at each other. A slow smile spread across Caelin�s lips as she took in the scene before her.

Rayne pulled back her hand and licked her suddenly try lips. �Um, not to be rude or anything, but how do you know my name?� she asked, grateful her voice was back to working properly, even though her insides were still jelly.

He didn�t have to introduce himself. She, along with most women in America knew exactly who he was. Dale Earnhardt Jr. She wasn�t a die hard NASCAR fan, but whenever he was on the screen she would pay a little more attention. And it wasn�t that he was the best looking guy she had ever seen. Sure, with his boyish good looks, and smile that could light up a room, he was definitely sexy. But it was more than that. That attracted her attention the most to him was his persona. The way he carried himself.

When his father died tragically at Daytona a few years back, he was truly a young man with the weight of the world on his shoulders. But instead of letting it drag him down, he rose above it, and in doing so, proved himself as a force to be reckoned with both on and off the race track.

And now he was standing directly in front of her, smiling, and knowing her name! Rayne struggled to control her racing heart, but gave up when she realized it was useless. As long as he was near, her heart would keep right on pounding!

Dale smiled down at her. In his like of work, he met beautiful, drop dead gorgeous women on a daily basis, but he�d never had anyone strike him the way Rayne Hudson did. He actually found himself having a tough time breathing and concentrating on anything other than her captivating smile and eyes.

He knew she had just asked him something, but he couldn�t for the life of him remember what. �Uh,� he wracked his brain. Luckily, he was saved by Brett, who nearly pushed him out of the way to get to Rayne. Dale�s eyes narrowed as he watched Brett pull her towards him and give him a big hug. His gut clenched when she pulled back and smiled warmly up at Fuel�s lead singer.

�How ya been?� Brett asked. She nodded.

�Can�t complain too much. Especially after my nice little vacation!� she exclaimed. �It�s good to see you again.�

�You too.� Brett answered. �So, you and your sister gonna let us take you out tonight?�

Rayne laughed and shook her head. �I honestly don�t know what our plans are.� She giggled when Brett pouted. �Besides,� she playfully swatted his arm. �I highly doubt your girlfriend would appreciate you taking me and Caelin out.�

Brett leaned in closer. �What she doesn�t know won�t hurt her.� He smirked. Rayne rolled her eyes, knowing he was completely joking.

�Uh huh.� She laughed. �Easy, Romeo.�

She turned her eyes away from him and found herself meeting Dale�s blue eyes once again. She could feel the blush in her cheeks as she smiled at him. �So, you didn�t tell me, how do you know who I am? My sister I could understand completely, but not me.�

Dale nodded towards Brett. �Brett filled me in on when he met you a couple weeks ago.� She nodded, then glanced over at her sister, who was currently talking to Jeff and Carl, with Kevin standing there. Although they were both trying to be inconspicuous, their eyes were just drawn to each other.

Biting her lip to keep from laughing Rayne leaned closer to Brett. �Um, it�s kinda like deja vu isn�t it?� she whispered. Brett followed her gaze and grinned.

�I think they just need to jump each other and get it over with.� He said softly. Unable to hold it back, Rayne burst out laughing. She turned her back to her sister when she looked over.

�That was just wrong!� she exclaimed, still laughing. Brett simply shrugged, then moved over to join the rest of the band when Carl called him over, leaving Rayne with Dale.

�So, have you enjoyed the track so far?� Dale asked. He knew he had to get to the garage to meet with his crew and he had driver introduction coming up soon, right after Fuel�s performance, but he just couldn�t seem to tear himself away.

Rayne nodded, her eyes lighting with excitement. �Oh yes! Everyone has been wonderful, showing us around.�

�I assume you�re staying for the race.� Dale commented. Rayne bit her lip and shrugged her shoulders.

�I�m not sure. I hope so, but I don�t know what Caelin�s agent has scheduled for her.� Rayne looked around taking everything in. Sure, she would be highly disappointed if they didn�t get to stay for the race, but just being there now, meeting everyone was more than she could have ever hoped for and she knew she would never complain.

�Well, I say you two stay. In fact, how would you like to watch the race from a top my hauler.� Dale offered. A little voice in the back of his head was yelling at him to check his senses. He never did this kind of thing, especially when he had a girlfriend. But again, he couldn�t help himself. And at the moment Tracie was the farthest thing from his mind.

Rayne�s eyes widened in surprise. �Really?� she asked in disbelief. Dale nodded.

�Absolutely. I�d love to have you there.� The look in his eyes had her entire body growing warm.

�Well, I�d love too, but I have to check with Caelin to see what�s up for the rest of the afternoon.� Rayne said, although she was beginning to think she didn�t care what Caelin was doing. She was gonna stay regardless!

She and Dale moved over to where Fuel and her sister were standing. Caelin smiled at Dale as he stepped forward and introduced himself. �It�s nice to meet you Dale.� She said, sending a smug look at her sister. She could honestly say she had never seen any man have this kind of effect on Rayne.

�Cae, are we planning on staying for the race?� Rayne asked, her eyes pleading with her sister to say yes. At first they had planned on staying, but as they got there Thomas had called and said there might be a change in plans.

Caelin was quiet for a moment as she thought things over. On one hand she knew she had to get away, as far away, from Kevin as she possibly could. But on the other hand, she didn�t have the strength too. Although she knew he was taken and could never be hers, it was enough just to be near him. Yet, at the same time, it wasn�t nearly enough. She was completely torn!

She looked at her sister and read the look there. Finally she smiled and nodded. �Sure why not. I�ll call Thomas and tell him whatever he had scheduled will have to wait until tomorrow.�

A radiant smile broke out on Rayne�s face. �You�re the best! Dale has invited us to watch the race on his hauler.� Caelin nodded, impressed.

�Then I�ll definitely call Thomas and reschedule!� Caelin grinned. Her grin faltered when Kevin stepped forward.

�Guys, we need to get warmed up. We�ve got about ten minutes until we�re on.� He said. The guys nodded and after saying their �good-byes� and �see ya laters�, Carl and Jeff moved off to where their equipment was being held.

Kevin and Brett held back. �Well, we�ll find you after the race.� Brett said as he started walking away. Kevin hesitated, and looked at Caelin.

�Are you gonna stay for our performance?� he asked, almost shyly. Rayne and Dale stood back, both fighting the grins that were threatening. Caelin met his gaze and nodded.

�Of course we will.� She smiled, silently applauding herself for sounding normal. �And like Brett said, we�ll see you after the race.�

Kevin nodded then turned his attention to Dale. �Good luck today man!� he called. Dale waved as Kevin walked away. Caelin watched him walk away, and it wasn�t until he was out of sight did she let go of the breath she had been holding.

She nearly jumped out of her skin when Rayne said from close beside her, �Sister dear, you�ve got it bad!�

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Ten

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The race went very smoothly for Dale. He led for more than three-quarters of the race and ended up finishing in first. He also ended up leading in the point standings for the season. He'd never ran such an immaculate race before and he was beginning to be convinced that Rayne was his lucky charm.

After doing his time in the winner's circle, he went directly to his hauler, unable to wait any longer to see Rayne again. He found her and Caelin still atop the hauler, discussing the race. When he came up, their conversation abruptly stopped when her eyes touched on him and she jumped to her feet.

"Congratulations!" Rayne exclaimed as she rushed up to him and threw her arms around him before she was able to stop herself.

Dale hesitated for only a split second before his own arms circled her waist and he pulled her a little closer to him. "Thank you." He whispered huskily in her ear. He closed his eyes, reveling at how right she felt in his arms for a moment before he pulled back and looked into her eyes, his breath catching. "I've never had such a good race before. I'm certain that you are my lucky charm."

Rayne felt her heart skip a beat and then race off at his words and at the sincerity in his eyes. She opened her mouth to say something, but nothing would come out. All she could do was stand there and grin at him. She wasn't sure if she was more relieved or disappointed when Caelin came over to congratulate Dale, causing them to move apart completely.

"That was a hell of a race, Dale. Congratulations!" She said to Dale. He smiled and thanked her before turning his attention back to Rayne. Caelin looked around the track; feeling like a fifth wheel as Rayne and Dale became oblivious to her presence. She was more than relieved when she heard Brett yelling up from the ground, asking if anyone was up there. She walked over to the edge of the hauler and told him that they were up there before her eyes were drawn once again to Kevin.

Her mouth fell open and she swayed slightly on her feet when she saw that Kevin hadn't put his shirt back on since there performance. "Good lord..." she whispered to herself as she watched the muscles in his stomach rippling just from the simple act of breathing. He had pulled his hair back in a ponytail, allowing his sinfully handsome features to be even more visible.

"We'll be right up." Brett replied back, breaking her out of the daze that she was in.

"I believe there will be some celebrating happening tonight." Kevin commented to Dale as he came up top the hauler and walked over to Dale and clapped him on the back. "Congratulation, bro. You really outdid yourself this race and you deserve to on top for the season." He said sincerely.

"Thank you." Dale said, his voice humble.

Kevin moved out of the way to give the other guys a chance to congratulate Dale. His eyes immediately fell on Caelin, who was standing off to the side a little bit. Unable to resist the urge, he stepped over to where she was standing.

Caelin looked at him as he approached, definitely relieved to find that he had put his shirt back on. It wasn't that she didn't like him without it on, but it was nearly killing her to see him like that and knowing that she could never touch him. God, her heart was still pounding as she remembered how he had looked without it during their performance and just now.

"You guys sounded great during your performance." Caelin told him, feeling proud of herself when her voice came out steady and strong. She was getting good at this! But still what she felt on the inside was the complete opposite if what was showing on the outside.

"Thanks." Kevin replied, with a smile that nearly had Caelin on the ground, but she managed to keep herself together. "Um, I think we're going to be hitting the clubs to celebrate Junior's stellar season. I hope that you and Rayne will join us." He asked her without giving a second thought to the fact that he was engaged to be married to another woman. All he knew at the moment was that he needed to spend as much time with this woman as he could before their lives took them in separate directions the next day.

"Um..." Caelin trailed off, knowing full well that she should just turn and runaway as fast as she could, but at the same time she knew that it was too late and that there was no way that she could walk away when she knew that he was right there. She'd pretty much made up her mind, but took a moment to glance over at her sister. She saw that Rayne's attention was completely on Dale, even as he talked to the other guys from Fuel. And she knew that Rayne would probably kick her ass if she declined the invitation.

Looking back at Kevin, she nearly fainted when she saw the longing in his eyes just before he quickly hid it. "Sure, that sounds like fun." She somehow managed to reply.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Eleven

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

�Are you sure you want to go out with them?� Rayne asked as the sisters got back to the hotel to change for a night out with the guys. Caelin sighed as she started rummaging through her suitcase.

�Yes and no. I know I should stay away from Kevin, but at the same time, I want to be as close to him as I can while I can.� She said softly. Rayne nodded sympathetically.

�Who knows, maybe him and his fianc� won�t work out!� she suggested. Caelin threw a shirt at her.

�I would never wish that on him.� She said truthfully. �So, you and Mr. Earnhardt seem to hit it off.� She grinned, changing the subject. The smile that lit Rayne�s face told her all she needed to know.

�He is amazing, isn�t he?� Rayne exclaimed. �Whew, what a man!�

Caelin laughed out loud. �Easy girl!�

�Sorry.� Rayne grinned sheepishly. �So what are you wearing?�

Caelin shrugged. �Probably just jeans and a shirt.� She answered. Rayne put her hands on her hips.

�Over my dead body!�

Caelin looked at her confused. �Huh?�

�Girl, we are going out tonight, partying with hot guys! You are going to knock all the men off their feet once I�m through with you. Including a certain drummer!� Rayne grinned her eyes shinning with anticipation.

Caelin started to protest but stopped. Rayne was right, this was their night out, and she was going to live it up! �Alright you talked me into it, but I get to pick out your clothes too!�

Rayne nodded in approval. �You�re on!�

***

�Where are they?� Kevin asked for the tenth time, again looking at his watch then looking at the door. �Are you sure you told them to meet us here?�

Brett looked over at Dale and snickered. �Someone is anxious.� He grinned.

Dale couldn�t help but laugh as well. �I just talked to Rayne, they are on their way now.�

�Oh good.� Kevin said and sat down, grabbing his beer all the while keeping a close eye on the door.

�Damn, Junior, did you rent out the club?� Brett asked, looking around seeing only NASCAR affiliated people. Dale grinned and leaned back in his chair.

�It�s great being the Champ!� he exclaimed.

�So, I notices some looks between you and Rayne. I thought you had a girlfriend.� Brett said, looking at Dale, who flushed.

He shifted uncomfortably in his chair. �Uh, Tracie and I aren�t doing so well, and in fact I was planning on breaking this off when I got back home.�

Kevin sat forward and grinned. �Yeah, he would have done it sooner, but he just hasn�t had time.�

�Damn, that�s harsh!� Brett laughed, but the laughter died as his eyes grew wide. �Holy shit! Uh, you two might want to look at the door. Now!� Both Kevin and Dale turned around, both forgetting how to breathe as their mouths falling open.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Twelve

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dale smiled when he found who he�d been looking for. He hadn�t had a chance to talk to Rayne in nearly an hour, with everyone coming up to him congratulating him on winning the Championship, and wanting to talk. Finally, he couldn�t take it anymore and set out to find her.

It didn�t take him long to find her talking to his buddy and teammate Michael Waltrip. She was laughing at a story Michael was currently telling when Dale walked up.

�And here�s little June Bug now.� Michael grinned, calling him by the nickname his father had given him a long time ago.

�Hey, you having a good time?� Dale asked, completely ignoring Michael, all his attention on Rayne. She nodded.

�I�m having a blast!� she exclaimed. �Caelin is gonna have to keep doing these things so we can hang out with everyone more often!�

Michael nudged her in her side. �You and your sister have an open invitation to any track at any time.� He promised sincerely before he walked away. Rayne watched him before turning back to Dale.

�Everyone has been so nice.� She smiled. �And damn you all know how to party!�

�Listen, do you want to go sit down?� Dale asked, pointing to a more secluded area of the club where there were couches. He really wanted to spend some one on one time with her and get to know everything he possibly could about this woman.

She nodded and followed him over and sat down. He sat down beside her, his body turned towards her so they could talk easily.

�Okay, you know pretty much everything there is to know about me, and after talking to Michael most likely a few things I�d rather you didn�t know,� he joked. �But I still don�t know much about you. I know you�re Caelin�s sister, but I want to know more about you, Rayne Hudson.�

Rayne felt her cheeks turning pink. Ever since Caelin had gotten into modeling, whenever she met people they mostly wanted to know about her sister. She was never the center of attention once they found out who she was related too. And in all honesty, that�s the way she preferred it. She had no problems standing back in the shadows. Until now. Now, she wanted to step out in the spotlight, and capture all of Dale Earnhardt Jr.�s attention.

She cleared her throat. �Well, I�m twenty six, live in Lake Tahoe, California. I�m very close with my sister and parents, always have been and always will be. I run a veterinary clinic, and love every moment of it.�

�You�re a vet!� Dale repeated. She nodded with a smile.

�Yup. Both Caelin and I knew what we wanted to do with out lives at a very young age, and we�ve both accomplished it.� She said proud of herself and her sister. �I love working with animals, and wouldn�t trade it for the world.�

�What do you do for cats with attitudes?� Dale asked. �I have one at home, Bud, who is very, what�s the word�persnickety.� Rayne sat up, obviously interested.

�How so?� she asked, taking a sip of the drink she still had in her hand.

�Let�s see. He only likes certain people, or should I say he only tolerates certain people. He�s moody and has one hell of a temper!� Dale rolled his eyes, thinking of his pet, who despite his words he loved with all his heart.

Rayne giggled, causing his heart to flutter. �From what I�ve heard from several other drivers, it sounds like Bud is a lot like his owner.� She teased.

�Ha ha, funny.� He retorted with a smirk. He opened his mouth to say something else, but snapped his head around when he heard the familiar high pitched whiny voice.

�Oh god no!� he silently prayed, although he knew it was too late.

Rayne saw his expression change to near panic and reach out to touch his arm, effectively regaining his attention. �Dale? Are you alright?� she asked. They could both feel the electricity running through them.

Before he could say anything he saw her coming towards them. He stood up to head her off, but he wasn�t quick enough. Before he knew it, his arms were full with his soon to be ex-girlfriend.

�Dale!� she screeched loudly right next to his ear, nearly causing him to go deaf. �Baby, I�m so proud of you!� she gushed.

�Um, uh�� Dale stuttered, sneaking a peak at Rayne who too has stood up and was watching the event unfold in front of her with confusion. �Thanks, but um, what are you doing here? I thought you were back in Charlotte.�

Tracie smiled up at him, hugging him even tighter, cutting off his air supply for a few seconds. �Baby, there was no way I could stay away! And I knew my baby would want me here with him, so I came! I know you�re surprised, but you know there isn�t anything I wouldn�t do for you, honey.� With that said she went up on tip toes and kissed him full on the mouth, molding her body to his.

Rayne�s eyes grew wide before they narrowed dangerously. Her hands clenched into tight fists at her side. It figured! Why hadn�t she figured out earlier that he had a girlfriend? Of course a man like him would. But wait! It wasn�t as if he had even mentioned a girlfriend. He�d been acting pretty single as far as she could tell!

Or had she just imagined the looks, and the heat between them. Was it possible that only she was feeling the attraction, and he was simply being friendly, with no other feelings what so ever?

�Hell no!� she silently scolded herself. Caelin had commented on more than one occasion about how Dale had looked at her, and how he acted. There was no way she could have imagine it.

�Bastard.� She muttered under her breath. She knew she really didn�t have a reason to be pissed, since nothing had happened. But she had been hoping, and damnit, she was pissed! He�d been right there when she had been talking to Brett about his girlfriend. It would have been the perfect opportunity for Dale to say something, and for her not to have gotten her hopes up. Later, she knew she would feel crushed, but at the moment, she was severely pissed off.

She spun on her heel and quickly walked away, unable to take seeing him in someone else�s arms, although he really didn�t seem to be responding to his girlfriend the way he should.

Dale knew the instant she walked away and felt his heart sink. Damnit why hadn�t he said something! He could fully understand her being upset. Once he ended things with Tracie, he knew he was going to have some serious explaining and groveling to do to get back into Rayne�s good graces, but he fully intended to do so. There was no way in hell he was going to let her just slip through his fingers. Never before had he felt this kind of connection to anyone, and damn sure wasn�t gonna loose it.

But first he needed to end it with the woman who was currently trying to stick her tongue down his throat. He pulled back abruptly and looked down at Tracie. She was a pretty woman, but compared to Rayne�well it was no comparison. He silently cursed himself. He wanted more than anything to tell her then and there it was over, and had been for awhile, but at the same time he wasn�t completely heartless. He couldn�t do that to her when she had just flown out to see him. He would do it when they got back to North Carolina.

Then, he and Rayne were going to sit down and have a heart to heart, even if it meant him tracking her down in Lake Tahoe. Nothing was going to keep him from her, now that he knew exactly what he wanted.

***

Rayne moved through the crowd of people until she came up to her sister. �I�m leaving.� She announced. Caelin turned to her in surprise, confusion clouding her eyes when she sensed just how upset her sister was.

�What? Why? What�s wrong?� Caelin demanded, turning away from Kevin Harvick and his wife, whom she had been talking too.

�I�ll tell you later.� Rayne said, not wanting to get into it here, especially when they were surrounded by Dale�s friends. �I�ll see you back at the hotel.� She stated before turning away.

Caelin rushed to catch up with her sister. �Wait, I�ll go with you!�

Rayne sighed and turned back around, seeing Kevin standing a little ways off, his eyes resting on Caelin. �No, you stay. Have fun, one of us should.� She mumbled the last part.

�Ray, what happened? I thought you and Dale were hitting it off so well!� Caelin asked, unable to wait.

Rayne�s eyes narrowed once more. �We were,� she said through clenched teeth. �Right up until his girlfriend showed up.�

Caelin took a startled step back. �Girlfriend? GIRLFRIEND?� she all but yelled.

Rayne shushed her as she looked around. �Quiet! Yes, girlfriend. Now, I�m going back to the hotel. I feel like a huge fool and am not up to staying here pretending to be happy go lucky.�

�That fucking bastard!� Caelin hissed, ready to track the younger man down and rip him apart with her own bare hands.

Rayne sighed heavily. �Calm down, it�s not that big of a deal.� She said, although they both knew she was lying.

Caelin planted her hands firmly on her hips. �Not that big of a deal? Ray, everyone here has said something to me about how he�s been around you. They�ve never seen him take to someone the way he did you!�

Rayne shrugged. �Doesn�t much matter now, does it? Look, stay, have fun. I just really wanna go back to the room and get some sleep.�

Caelin was torn. On one hand she did want to stay. She was having a very good time, regardless of the internal struggle she was having over Kevin, but she was doing a damn good job of hiding it. But she had to admit that she knew she had it bad when just catching a glimpse of him from across the room completely brightened her up. Yet, on the other hand she wanted to there for her sister, who was still visibly upset, and with every right to be.

Rayne could see her hesitation and made up her mind for her. �I just want to be alone right now. We�ll talk later, okay?�

With a resigned sigh, Caelin nodded, then watched as her sister walked away and out the door.

�Damn men!� she thought to herself.

�Why can�t anything ever be easy?� she wondered out loud. She turned around and the first person she saw was Dale with a petite blond by his side, hanging onto his arm as if she was afraid he would disappear if she let go. It was quite obvious she was staking her claim. What was also obvious was the way Dale was all but ignoring the other women. He was searching the faces in the club frantically, and she would have been willing to bet her life on who he was looking for.

When their eyes met, she glared at him, letting him know exactly how she felt at the moment. No one messed with her sister like that! He shot her an apologetic look, but she turned her back on him and stalked to the bar, suddenly in desperate need of a stronger drink than the iced tea in her hands.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Thirteen

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

�Thank you.� Caelin mumbled to the bartender after she got her fourth drink. She took a sip and sighed as she allowed the flavor of the Mudslide soothe her just a little. She was beginning to feel a little better, thanks to the help of the drinks inside her. At least she felt better until she looked across the club and saw Dale dancing with his girlfriend.

She jumped and nearly dropped her drink when she heard someone right next to her ask, �Are you okay?�

She turned her head, her breath catching when she saw Kevin standing there. �Breath,� she silently reminded herself. �You can do this. You are in complete control.�

�What?� she asked, not sure of his question.

�I asked if you were okay. You seem, upset.� He said softly, wanting more than anything to soothe her. Just to hold her�but he knew he couldn�t.

Caelin sighed and turned back to her drink. �Yeah, I guess.� She mumbled. After taking another sip she turned back to him. �Men are dicks!� she announced.

Kevin looked startled and struggled to keep from smiling. �Uh, I�ve heard that a couple times. But, why may I ask, do you feel that way?�

�Because!� she stated. �They just are!� She turned her attention back to Dale who was trying desperately to untangle himself from the blond bimbo�s arms. Kevin followed her gaze and whistled softly.

�I take it you didn�t know about Tracie.� He said softly, seeing the anger in Caelin�s eyes. He found himself breathing a little harder. With her standing there with fire in her eyes, her cheeks flushed, it was all he could do not to grab her and not let go.

�Is that the little Twinkie�s name?� she asked, continuing to glare at the couple. Suddenly she turned fully towards Kevin, and he had to suppress a groan of desire. If she kept looking at him like that with those big blue eyes, he wasn�t sure he would be able to resist her much longer. There was only so much self control a man possessed!

�You�re good friends with him.� She hissed out the last part. �Why didn�t he tell Rayne he had a girlfriend?�

Kevin felt like a deer caught in the headlights. �Uh, I really can�t speak for Junior. But things aren�t so good between them. In case you hadn�t noticed, he�s trying to get away from her. Every time she kisses him he doesn�t really respond. She�s just trying harder to get her claws into him. He told me earlier today before meeting Rayne that he was going to break things off with her when he got back to North Carolina.�

Some of Caelin�s anger vanished at his words. Maybe Dale wasn�t such an asshole after all, and the sparks she�d seen fly between him and her sister were indeed real. �Really?� she asked.

Kevin nodded, reaching out to tuck a lock of hair behind her ear before he was able to stop himself. The feel of her soft skin was almost his undoing. Without knowing it he stepped closer to her. �Really.� He answered huskily.

Her heart started racing as she could feel the heat from his body. �Um, I�ll be sure to let Rayne know that.� She whispered.

�Caelin�� she shivered at the way he said her name. Her eyelids grew heavy as he started to lean into her, his head dipping. He knew this was wrong, but he couldn�t stop himself. He felt as if he needed to know if her lips were as soft as they look just as much as he needed air to breath.

�One taste.� He told himself. �Just one taste.�

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Chapter Fourteen

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Caelin tipped her head back a little bit, knowing that Kevin was going to kiss her. A voice inside her head screamed at her to stop this right now before it could go any further, but she knew that it was already much too late. She couldn't stop it. She didn't want to. She also knew that what she and Kevin were doing was wrong in so many ways, but right at the moment, that really wasn't thinking of that. Her only thoughts were of Kevin and how much she did want him to kiss her.

Their lips were just inches from touching, but they quickly jumped apart when Brett came up to them. He took in the glare that Kevin was giving him and Caelin's flushed cheeks. "Um, did I interrupt something?" He asked, a smirk curving his lips.

"Was there something that you wanted?" Kevin questioned, ready to strangle his band mate when he saw the knowing smirk on Brett's face. He turned his glare up a notch, which only served to make Brett laugh. He grinned playfully as he held his hands up in defense, knowing full well that, even though he didn't feel at all threatened by his friend's glare, Kevin could kick his ass if he wanted to.

"Just wanted to ask Caelin to dance." Brett replied, turning his attention to her. "You wanna dance?"

Caelin bit her lips as she thought it over. Maybe this interruption between Kevin and herself had happened for a reason. Obviously because Kevin was about as unavailable as any man could be and this thing between them was not...could not go any further. And that was a damn depressing thought.

Managing a smile and hoping that it didn't look as fake as it felt, Caelin looked up at Brett. "Sure, that'd be fun." She replied. Something...anything to get her mind off Kevin and the kiss that had damn near happened. She took hold of his hand when he offered it and he led her out onto the dance floor.

They'd only been out there for a few seconds when the upbeat song that had been playing ended and a slower tune started. Caelin moved to leave, but Brett stopped her, giving her a playful pout as he pulled her into his arms. "You gotta give me a little more dance than that." He teased.

Kevin watched from where he still stood by the bar. His gut clenched and jealousy like he'd never known surged through him as he watched them swaying slowly to the music. Without giving it a second thought, he walked over to where they were dancing and tapped Brett on the shoulder.

"Hit the bricks." Kevin demanded when Brett turned around and raised his eyebrow in question.

Brett turned back and thanked Caelin for the dance before he looked at Kevin again and grinned. "She's all yours, bro." He said, loud enough for only Kevin to hear.

As Brett walked away, Kevin turned to Caelin and held his hand out to her. She hesitated, knowing that this shouldn't be. "Kevin," She began, but any other words that she might have said were cut off when he took her hand in his and pulled her tight against him. Not having the strength to fight what she was feeling, she gave up as her body melted into his.

Wrapping her arms around him, Caelin pressed closer and was barely able to surpress the gasp at how his body felt against her own. Her heart pounded wildly as she felt his hands move slowly along her back.

Kevin had to bite back the groan of desire that was threatening to escape when Caelin rested her cheek against his and their skin came into contact. His breathing became a little heavy when he realized that if he turned his head just a tiny bit, his lips would touch hers. He resisted the temptation...barely. He wanted...needed to kiss her badly, but not when there were tons of people around.

After the song ended, they went back to the bar and got their drinks before Kevin led her back to the more private area of the club. They barely made it back there before he pulled her against him with one arm, while he cupped her cheek with his free hand. Their eyes met before he slowly lowered his head and their lips met in a burning kiss.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Fifteen

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Caelin's drink slipped unnoticed from her hand as the shock of the feeling of his lips against hers ripped through her. Never before had she ever felt anything like it. Every nerve in her body was suddenly alive and on fire. Her pounding heart sent her desire-thickened blood slamming through her veins. Her legs were weak and she was trembling all over. She felt like she was floating and spinning. The deep groan that rumbled through his chest when she ran her hands over it sent her flying even higher. She tangled her fingers through his hair and tipped her head back, allowing the already heated kiss to intensify further.

The kiss ended only when it became absolutely necessary for them to breathe. Kevin gazed down into her eyes, seeing everything that he felt mirrored there. She shivered under his touch as he brushed his fingers across her kiss swollen lips.

"God, I want you so bad." Kevin told her, his voice rough with longing and need.

"But you can't." Caelin whispered the statement that she knew was coming next. She felt tears burning her eyes and had to bite her lip to keep them back.

"I can't." Kevin stated regrettably, his voice quiet. "Caelin, I..." His words trailed off when she placed a finger to his lips to silence him. She couldn't bear to hear the words that he would say next. Sighing heavily, Kevin leaned forward until his forehead rested against hers.

Caelin closed her eyes and took a deep steadying breath that did nothing for the turmoil of emotions on the inside, but gave her the strength she needed on the outside. She pulled back and looked up at Kevin, seeing her own emotions mirrored in his eyes.

�I should go.� She said softly, giving him a small smile, hoping it wasn�t trembling as bad as she felt it was. She needed to just walk away, now. And not just for herself, but for him as well. The last thing she ever wanted to do was come in between a relationship. She�d never done it before, and she wasn�t going to start now.

Kevin�s arms tightened around her for a second before he nodded and took a step back, breaking contact with her completely. He wanted more than anything to beg her to stay, but he knew he couldn�t. He did love his fianc�, although his actions tonight weren�t proving it. He couldn�t do this to her, or to Caelin. They both deserved more. He would just walk away, and not look back. It was a good plan, now if only he could follow through with it.

Caelin tuned and walked away, keeping a smile firmly on her lips. She made her way through the crowd, everything in her screaming at her to turn back around and fight for what she really wanted. But even though she was crumbling on the inside, on the outside her head was held high, and she kept on walking, never looking back.

***

Caelin opened her eyes the next morning and groaned as she rolled over and buried her face back in the pillow. Memories of the night before came flooding back and she moaned out loud.

�I know you�re awake.� Rayne said, sitting up in her own bed. Caelin lifted her head, seeing her sister already dressed.

�Yeah, so?� she grumbled, obviously not waking up her normal cheerful self.

Rayne raised an eyebrow. �I didn�t hear you come in last night. Kinda curious as to what happened after I left. I�ve only been waiting for two and a half hours for you to wake up!�

Caelin frowned as she rolled on her back, rubbing her tired eyes. �What time is it?� she croaked.

�It�s nearly 11.� Caelin shot straight up in bed.

�Oh shit! I�m gonna be late! I�m supposed to meet Thomas and some other people for lunch at eleven thirty.� She jumped out of bed and started scrambling to get her stuff together.

Rayne grinned at seeing her normally in control sister so flustered. �You�re fine, Thomas called a little while ago and postponed until one.�

Caelin�s shoulders sank with relief. �Oh thank god!�

�So, now you have time to fill me in!� Rayne exclaimed, keeping her eyes on her sister as she walked back over to the bed to lie down.

�Well�� she started but Rayne cut her off.

�Oh just skip to the kissing part.� She grinned, laughing at loud at Caelin�s shocked expression.

�What?� she cried. �How in the hell did you know?�

�You�re positively glowing, yet have this sadness about you. I could tell it even when you were sleeping. And there is only one person I know who could make you look like that. Kevin. And since I know you didn�t sleep with him, I�m assuming there was some kissage.� Rayne said curiously, her tone neither encouraging nor condescending. She was simply curious and wanting to know how her sister was handling things.

Caelin dropped her head in her hands and groaned, feeling tears stinging the back of her eyes. �Oh Rayne,� she muttered. �The kiss was�� she trailed off trying to find the words.

�Earth shattering?� Rayne offered. �Mind boggling, angels singing, fireworks going off, heart fluttering, leaving the earth kinda kiss?�

Caelin�s lips twitched as she nodded. �Precisely.� She said with a dreamy look that quickly disappeared. �And therein lies the problem.�

Rayne stood up and walked over to her sister's bed, sitting next to her. �What happened?� she asked.

Caelin shook her head. �Besides that kiss, nothing. We can�t. No matter how much we want too, we can�t. He and I both know it. Hell the kiss should have never happened.�

Rayne looked down at her hands trying to figure out what to say to help her sister feel better. �I�m sorry.� She finally whispered. Caelin lifted her head and gave her sister a watery smile.

�It�s no body�s fault. Well, just mine for wanting him so badly.� She muttered, running a hand over her face, then rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

Rayne shook her head. �It�s not your fault for liking someone. You can�t just turn off your emotions, not matter how badly you�d like too.� She said softly.

Caelin tilted her head as she smiled sadly at her sister. �You know a little something about that don�t you?� she asked, switching the topic off of herself and Kevin. Rayne�s eyes darkened with anger as she abruptly stood up.

�This has nothing to do with me.� She said shortly, going over to get ready to take a shower and get ready.

�No, but I�m not the only one who allowed my emotions to take over.� Caelin said as she too stood up, her arms crossed as she spoke. Rayne�s shoulders stiffened.

�There is no comparison between you and Kevin and Dale and myself. You and Kevin have such a�connection. A very strong connection.�

�And what about you and Dale?� Caelin asked.

�Lust, plain and simple.� Rayne responded.

�Yeah, right.� Caelin shot back. �Please, there were some serious sparks between the two of you. Besides, Kevin told me that Dale had told him earlier yesterday, before meeting you, that he was planning on ending things with his girlfriend because things weren�t working out.�

�Good for him.� Rayne muttered, ignoring the way her heart jumped at the news.

Caelin couldn�t help the grin that spread. �So I take it you�re going to be your typical stubborn self and not give him the benefit of the doubt.�

Rayne whirled around to stare at her sister. �Benefit of the doubt? Hello! He has a girlfriend and was flirting his ass off with me! That�s wrong! I don�t care if he was going to break up with her, the fact is when he met me he still had a girlfriend! You know how I feel about assholes who cheat!� She paused when she saw her sister�s face fall.

�I�m sorry, I honestly wasn�t putting Kevin in that classification.� Rayne apologized. Caelin nodded and took a deep breath.

�I know you weren�t. It's just that with Kevin I�ve gone against all my morals myself. Wanting him so badly is driving me insane�yet not having him is almost worse!� She cried.

�So what do we do now?� Caelin asked after a moment's silence. She knew what she wanted to do, but that was out of the question.

�Well, I don�t know about you, but I�m going back home, bury myself in work and pretend that I didn�t meet Dale Earnhardt Jr. this weekend.� Rayne stated confidently, although she and Caelin both knew she was only lying to herself.

�Besides,� Rayne continue. �It�s not like I really have to worry about anything. He�s got his life, I�ve got mine. We probably won�t even see each other ever again.�

Caelin sighed. �You�re probably right. Same with Kevin and me. I just have to move on and pretend like none of this ever happened!� she exclaimed.

Both she and Rayne looked at each other, waiting for the peace to settle in and tell them they were doing the right thing. When after a few minutes it still hadn�t happened, they both started to get ready for the day.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Sixteen

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Dale Earnhardt Jr. cracked an eye open and growled under his breath when he realized he was indeed awake, his dream ruined all because someone decided to call him early in the morning. Someone was going to die!

He sat up and grabbed his cell phone. �What?� he growled.

�Aww, baby, did I wake you up?� He cringed as the voice whined in his ear. He bit his tongue to hold back the string of curses that were threatening. He had purposely decided to come back and stay in his motor coach, knowing full well Tracie wouldn�t come back with him. The motor coaches were �beneath� her and on the very few occasions when he would bring her to a race, she was sure to get her own hotel room.

He glared over at the clock seeing it wasn�t as early as he originally thought it was, but damnit, 11:30 was still too early after just winning the Championship and partying until all hours.

�What do you want?� he snapped, really not intending to sound so mean. It wasn�t just the fact that he�d been woken up, and whom he�d been woken up by, but what pissed him off the most was that he had been in the middle of a pretty intense dream with Rayne.

�Well, I was hoping you�d be willing to come over so we can really start to celebrate your victory!� Tracie whispered suggestively. �I was rather disappointed you didn�t want to stay last night, but I understand. You had a lot going on yesterday, but it�s a new day and I think we should start it off right.�

Dale closed his eyes and silently counted to ten. When that didn�t work he tried to twenty, then thirty.

�Honey?�

�Yeah,� he finally answered. �I�m here.�

�So, what do you say?� she purred.

Dale grit his teeth. �Can�t, sorry. Lots of stuff to do today.� Like track down Rayne and get her to listen to him.

�But Daaaale!� she cried. �I want to be with you. Don�t you want to be with you? I mean I did just travel all this way to see you!�

�Did I ask you too?� he snapped before he could stop himself. He heard her gasp and felt like the biggest heel on the face of the earth.

�I�m sorry, Trace. I didn�t mean that. I�ve got a hell of a hangover and just wanna sleep.� He apologized, hoping she would believe him.

�It�s okay, I understand.� She said softly, and he could almost hear the tears in her voice. �Do you want me to come over and take care of you?� she offered.

Dale felt like banging his head against the headboard. It was like talking to a damned brick wall! �No, better not. I�ve got a few appearances, and you�d just be bored. I�ll be heading back to North Carolina tonight as it is.�

�Well, do you want me to hang around and wait for you? Cuz I can!� She said excitedly. �Maybe while you�re off doing your appearances I�ll get something to wear to the awards banquet in New York!�

Dale nearly dropped the phone. He was unable to stop the groan that escaped. He hadn�t wanted to do this now, and really didn�t want to do it over the phone, but she was leaving him no choice. There was no way in hell he was taking her to the awards banquet in three weeks.

As the NASCAR Champion, he and his team would be at the head table and all eyes would be on him, and he surely didn�t want her with him. Hell, he wouldn�t have wanted her with him even if he weren't the champion. He�d been to four awards banquets, and never before had he taken a date. He hadn�t been planning on taking anyone this year either. He�d thought about escorting his stepmother or no one at all, but now that he thought about it, he did was someone on his arm. And there was no doubt in his mind who that someone was.

�You�re not going to the banquet.� He stated a little harsher than he wanted too, but damnit, he was tired of playing games. He didn�t want to be with Tracie, there was only one woman he wanted and that was Rayne. He was through with the act he�d been putting on for Tracie for awhile now. He knew it was wrong to end things this way, but with Rayne on his mind, nothing else mattered.

�E-excuse me?� Tracie stuttered.

�You heard me.� He said, taking a deep breath. �Look, I really didn�t want to do this over the phone, nor did I want to do it now, but I don�t see putting it off any longer. We�re not working out, Tracie. This relationship isn�t what I want, I�m sorry. We haven�t been happy for a couple months now, and it�s time to stop putting off the inevitable. I�m sorry to break things off like this, and I�m even more sorry you had to come all this way just to hear this. But I have to be true to myself and to you. It�s just not going to work.� He held his breath waiting for her response. He heard her breathing heavily on the other end.

He closed his eyes feeling worse than ever when he heard her sniffle. Damn but he hated to make women cry! Why hadn�t he just held out until they were both back in North Carolina and he could talk to her face to face?

�Because you don�t want anything standing in between you and Rayne.� A little voice in the back of his head said.

He returned his attention to the woman on the other line of the phone when he heard her speak. �I-I think I�ve known this was coming for awhile now, I just didn�t want to face it.� She whispered.

�I�m sorry Trace.� He said sincerely.

�No, I�m sorry. I�m sorry I couldn�t be what you wanted. I truly hope you find her someday, Dale. It�s been fun, a lot of fun, but deep down even I knew we weren�t destined to be together forever.� She said, surprising him with her maturity.

�I really am sorry.� Dale said again, suddenly feeling as if the weight of the world had been lifted off his shoulders.

�Good bye, Dale. And good luck.� She said before disconnecting the call.

Dale stared at the phone in his hand for a moment before setting it down. He took a deep breath. He felt bad about Tracie, he really did, but he knew it was for the best, and it was obvious she felt the same way. Now, it was time to start a new chapter in his life. One that included Rayne Hudson.

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Chapter Seventeen

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Dale stood in the lobby of the hotel where Rayne and Caelin were staying. It was thankfully not the same hotel where Tracie was, or had been staying. Taking a deep breath and slowly letting it out to gather his courage, Dale walked across the lobby to the desk. On the way there, he became aware of something. He was nervous. No woman...ever had had that kind of effect on him before. That feeling only served to further make him acknowledge the fact that he and Rayne were meant to be together.

"Can I help you?" The clerk asked politely, knowing full well who the man before her was.

"I need the room number for Rayne Hudson." Dale stated, his nervousness making his southern drawl even more prominent.

The desk clerk punched some keys on the computer and then looked back at Dale. "I'm sorry, there is no one listed under that name."

"Um, how about Caelin Hudson?"

The clerk checked again. "No, I'm sorry."

"Uh, okay. Thanks." Dale turned and took one step away before turning back again. "I know they stayed here last night. Have they checked out?"

"I'm sorry, sir. There wasn't anyone under either of those names here...at least last night."

"Okay, thank you again." Dale stood there for a moment, confused. Either Rayne and Caelin were gone from the hotel or they were registered under another name. "Of course." Dale muttered to himself. Caelin was most likely registered under her agent's name. Unfortunately, he had no idea what her agent's name was.

Feeling discouraged, but not ready to give up, Dale turned around, willing to wait around the hotel all day and all night if it meant getting a chance to see Rayne.

His eyes widened and his steps faltered when his eyes touched on Rayne as she stepped off the elevator at that moment. His heart skipped a full beat when she turned her head and their eyes met. He then felt his heart drop when he immediately saw the anger jump into her eyes and she turned and began stalking toward the exit.

"Rayne, wait!" Dale called as he started after her. He stopped dead in his tracks when she suddenly spun around and gave him a glare that could rival his own. "Go away!" She hissed, her eyes shooting blue shards of ice that went straight to his heart. Then she spun on her heel and began walking away again.

"Rayne, please!" Dale took a step forward and gently grabbed her arm before she could get anywhere. "We need to talk." He said when her head snapped around and she continued to glare at him.

Rayne huffed out an exasperated sigh and relented, knowing that he wasn't going to give up and leave her alone until he said his piece. So she'd let him do his talking and then she would send him away again so she could go on her own way and get on with her life.

"Fine. You wanna talk? Then talk." Rayne told him, her voice icy.

"Can we go somewhere a little more private?" Dale asked, knowing that he was probably pushing it with that question.

Rayne had to bite her lip to keep herself from screaming in frustration. Yet, at the same time, she never felt more alive in her life. God, just being this close to Dale was driving her mad...and not only because he was annoying the hell out of her. Just standing there, she could feel the heat and electricity radiating off of his body in intoxicating waves.

"Fine." She said, her voice not quite as harsh this time.

Still holding onto her arm, Dale led her outside and around the back of the hotel where the gardens were located. Finding a bench, he sat her down on it and took the seat beside her. He looked at her for a moment, his breath catching at how breathtakingly beautiful she was. But it wasn't only that...it was that nervous feeling again and it once again hit him how much he was destined to be with this woman. Even if she didn't believe it at the moment. Somehow....somehow he would make her believe that he was real...that the feelings that he had for her were real. And that he wasn't the lying, cheating dog that she currently thought him to be.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Eightteen

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Rayne stared right back at him, her gaze unwavering. She didn�t look quite as hostile as before, but at the same time she wasn�t about to relent. She looked to be in complete control.

But on the inside she was a complete mess. She was fighting against herself to just throw herself in his mans arms, the consequences be damned, and she knew she couldn�t do that.

During her shower, she had done a lot of serious thinking. Even if Dale did break things off with his girlfriend, there really was no way she could ever be with him. Their lifestyles were just far too different.

Caelin had always been the one in the family who enjoyed the attention. She had too for the job she had. Rayne had always been the exact opposite. Being the local veterinarian was as much attention she wanted. And if she were to be with Dale she would immediately be thrust into the kind of life she had shied away from.

She knew she was acting completely standoffish and like a bitch, but it was the only way she knew to push Dale away, even though she really wanted to hold him close.

�No!� she silently yelled at herself. �You can�t hold on to him, no matter how much you want too! You have to do this�for him just as much as yourself.�

She blinked and snapped herself out of her thoughts, then realized Dale had yet to say anything, was just continuing to sit there staring at her. She raised an eye brow and crossed her arms over her chest, giving him almost a bored look.

�If you�re not going to talk, then I�m leaving.� She stated simply, ready to rise to her feet. She once again felt his hand on her arm and stayed where she was. She bit her lip to hold back the little moan at having his hand on her once again.

�Easy girl, you can do this!� she told herself.

Dale put his head down, took a deep breath then once again looked into her eyes. �I owe you a huge apology, Rayne.� He said softly. She was unable to suppress the little shiver that ran through when he said her name.

She struggled to maintain her cool exterior. �You don�t owe me anything.� She snapped.

Dale sighed and ran a hand through his hair. �You�re not going to make this easy are you?� he half joked, then held up his hands when she turned up her glare.

�I do owe you an apology. I should have told you about Tracie from the beginning, and I don�t blame you for being angry with me. Just please allow me to explain.� He begged.

Again she felt herself softening towards him. Just looking into his blue eyes, seeing the sincerity there, she already forgave him. But she couldn�t let him know that.

She shrugged indifferently. �Fine, go ahead and explain, but it won�t change anything.�

Dale grit his teeth, pulling the reins on his own temper which was slowly starting to boil. He wasn�t sure if he wanted to grab her and shaker her, or kiss her! After taking a deep breath he continued. �Tracie and I have been together a few months, and although the first month was fine, after that pretty much went down hill.� He started to explain.

�Anyway, the entire race season is a busy time, obviously. I didn�t get to see a whole lot of her, and that may have been where our problems started. But soon I found when I did spent time with her, I couldn�t wait to get back on the road. I knew it was over. I�ve known it for awhile now, unfortunately I just haven�t been home to do anything about it. As I said the race season is busy for each and every driver, but the past month and a half has been crazy for me, especially with leading the points standings. Between shooting commercials, appearances, signings, tv shows, I�ve been home for one week over the past month and a half, and most of that time is spent at the shop at DEI.�

He paused when he saw her eyes soften with sympathy before continuing. �I�ve been planning on ending things with her for awhile. I finally did it this morning.� He said honestly. She looked a little surprised at that, but quickly covered it up.

�That still doesn�t change the fact that I should have told you about her when I first met you, but in all honesty, she was the farthest thing from my mind.� He said, his voice a little gruff.

�I don�t make it a habit of going after other women when I�m involved with someone. I never invite women to races, and I�m most definitely not a player.�

Rayne knew he was telling the truth, not only by the tone of voice, but by the look in his eyes. Now her emotions were even more in turmoil. It was a lot easier to stay cool towards him and be angry when she thought he was an asshole.

She sighed and allowed the bitchy exterior to fade. �I believe you.� She said softly. The way his eyes lit up at her words, and the smile that crossed his lips was nearly her undoing.

�But that doesn�t change anything.� She whispered, looking away, not able to watch the hurt expression she knew would cross his expressive featured.

�W-what do you mean?� Dale demanded, reaching out to take her hand in his, needing that contact.

She looked down at their hands then looked back up at him. �We come from two totally different places, Dale. You and I, we�d never work.� She admitted, feeling the sudden sting of tears. She blinked them away quickly.

Dale surged to his feet, as he started down at her in shock. �How the fuck can you say that?� He reached down and pulled her to her own feet. He reached out and gently ran his fingers down her cheek, biting back a groan when she unconsciously leaned into his touch.

�Listen to me. I have never had this kind of reaction to anyone before. There is something between us, and we�d be fools not to pursue this.� He stated, allowing her to know all he was thinking and feeling. �I want you, Rayne. And I know you want me too.�

Rayne sighed and took a slight step back. �I won�t deny that the attraction between us is�almost scary. But that doesn�t change the fact that we don�t belong in each other�s worlds. All my life I have been a small hometown girl, content with leading the quiet life. You�re life is anything but quite, Dale. I see what Caelin goes through and have never wanted my life to be like that. Some people are made to be in the spot light, but I�m not one of those people. And you�re life is even more hectic than hers!�

She shook her head trying to figure out how to say all this. �If you�re life was calmer, or I didn�t mind all the excitement and running from here to there, I would be more than willing to find out what exactly there is between us, because I do think it�s something strong. But I would never ask you to change your lifestyle, and I can�t change mine. So, it�s a dead end. I�m sorry, Dale.� She whispered.

He stared at her, swallowing hard. He couldn�t find the words. How could he? He couldn�t ask her to suddenly uproot everything she�d ever known and join him in his chaotic life any more than he could just give up everything he�d ever known to be with her. Was it possible that he had found her only to discover she was never meant to be his? Fate was a cruel fucker sometimes.

Still unable to find the words he did the only thing he could think to do. He reached out and pulled her towards him, his lips meeting hers in an earth shattering kiss. She immediately melted against him, her own arms coming up and wrapping around his neck, holding him tight.

He kissed her with all the passion and desire he felt for her, and she met him every step of the way. Finally she pulled back and looked up at him. She closed her eyes and took a deep steadying breath, backing away.

�Good luck Dale.� She whispered, her eyes filling with a sudden rush of tears. She hadn�t known him long, a day in fact, yet as she turned away from him and hurried back to the front of the hotel, she felt like she was leaving her heart behind.

Dale stood perfectly still as he watched her walk away. Slowly the classic Earnhardt grin made it�s appearance, and the light was back in his eyes. She though he would just give up and walk away. Obviously she didn�t realize just how stubborn an Earnhardt could be.

But she was about to find out. They would find a way to fit in each others lives�that he was certain of. They were meant to be together, and he was going to prove it to her, one way or another.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Nineteen

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Caelin rushed through the airport, her head down as she rummaged through her purse for her cell phone. She had been set to return to back to Lake Tahoe with Rayne for a few days before setting off again, but at the last moment, Thomas had had given her an offer for a photo shoot on Catalina Island that she just couldn't refuse. Mostly because she'd done shoots there before and loved the place. And she also knew that if she were working, her mind wouldn't be on Kevin. That was the plan anyway.

"Damn it." Caelin muttered under her breath when she couldn't find her phone. She glanced up to make sure that no one was in front of her as she kept walking and then looked down again to resume her search. An instant later she ran into what seemed to be a brick wall. Because she had been walking so fast, the momentum when she hit caused her to lose her balance and stumble backward.

She gasped and her head shot up when she felt hands on her shoulders to steady her and she immediately recognized that touch. The electricity that surged through her took her breath clean away and sent her world spinning.

Kevin gazed down at her, having been just as shocked at her literally running into him as she was herself. His heart leapt in his chest. God, she was beautiful with the way her cheeks were flushed and her eyes wide with surprise. Seeing her again...it had been hard as hell to let her walk away the night before. He could only hope that he would have the strength to do it again.

Taking a deep breath, Caelin forced herself to be calm...at least on the outside. On the inside, it was hopeless. Just one glimpse at the man was enough to make her insides shudder.

"I'm sorry. I wasn't watching where I was going." Caelin apologized, saying the only words that she could think of at the moment.

Kevin gave her a smile and Caelin felt her knees weaken. "It's okay. I really wasn't either." He replied, his hands still on her shoulders. He just couldn't bring himself to let go yet.

"So are you guys heading back out on the road?" Caelin asked as she unconsciously took a step closer to him.

Kevin closed his eyes for a moment as her scent wreaked havoc on his senses. He felt his body tighten as need tore through him. He took in a deep breath and willed himself to stay in control. He opened his eyes again and looked down at her, his breath catching. God, she had the most gorgeous eyes. Not just the color, but looking into them, he could see straight to her soul. Giving himself another mental shake, he answered her question.

"Yes, we're hitting the East Coast for about the next three weeks." He paused for a moment. "You heading home?"

"No, I'm flying to Catalina Island for a few days and then I'm going home for a short break before heading out again." She told him, thankful that her voice came out near normal, because him being as close as he was, she was definitely shaking on the inside. She then sighed inwardly, knowing what she had to do...again.

"I have to get going. My flight leaves soon." Caelin told him, grateful that she had an excuse because otherwise she wasn't completely certain that she could walk away from him again.

"Me too." Kevin said quietly as he continued to look down into her eyes. "Take care, Caelin."

Caelin shivered as Kevin brushed a finger across her cheek as he spoke. Unable to help herself, she wrapped her arms around him and hugged him tight, memorizing everything about him in that moment. When he returned her hug, she knew she could stay like that forever. But, she also knew that she couldn't. She moved back, completely breaking contact with him and was immediately hit with a very real feeling of emptiness.

"You take care of yourself too, Kevin." Then with that said, she walked past him and continued on her way.

Kevin stood there, watching her go and unable to look away until she was completely out of sight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Twenty

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

�Dr. Husdon, there�s a delivery for you.� Hillary, Rayne�s personal secretary said as she poked her head in the room where Rayne was currently sitting with a big Doberman. �How�s Doby?� she asked, nodding toward the big dog that was mean to everyone except Rayne. With her he was a big baby.

Rayne smiled down at the dog as she pet his head lovingly. �He�s doing much better. Leg is almost all better, and I think we can call Mr. Stevens and tell him Doby should be ready to go home tomorrow.�

�Oh good, I know he misses his baby.� Hillary smiled. Rayne gave the dog one final pat then rose to her feet from the sitting position she had taken while spending time with the animal.

�Did you say there was a delivery? I hope it�s the meds we ordered a week ago.� Rayne huffed as she headed out to the door and towards the front office.

�Um, not exactly, but I think you�ll enjoy these. And you have some serious explaining to do.� Hillary grinned as she followed her boss and friend through the halls.

Rayne shot her a confused look over her shoulder as they entered the lobby, then her steps halted when she turned back around and saw what was awaiting her. There, sitting on the desk, was the biggest and most beautiful bouquet of lilies she had ever seen.

�Oh my.� She whispered as she looked at them, still not moving. It wasn�t until the deliver man moved over to her did she look at anything else.

�Dr. Hudson, I need you to sign here, please.� He held out his clipboard. She was still in shock.

�Um, there must be some mistake. They can�t be for me!� she protested. The deliver man frowned and looked down at the board in his hand.

�Are you Dr. Rayne Hudson?� he asked. She nodded. �Then there is no mistake, they are for you. Just sign here please.�

She took the clipboard from him and quickly scribbled her name then handed it back and turned towards the flowers. She had no idea who could have sent them�who would know that lilies were her absolute favorite?

�Well, are you going to look at the card?� Hillary demanded, rocking on her feet in excitement. Rayne walked up to the flowers and reached out, touching one of the delicate petals.

�They are beautiful.� She said softly.

�Yes they are, now the card!� Hillary exclaimed.

Rayne grinned and reached out to grab the card. She opened it and read it silently, her eyes widening when she took in the words. She quickly put the card in her pocket and picked up her flowers.

�Well?� Hillary asked, nearly dying with anticipation.

Rayne looked at her and smiled. �Just from a patient, thanking me for the good job I did for their pet, no big deal� Her words would have been a little more convincing if she her cheeks hadn�t been red. She quickly turned and walked out of the room.

Hillary watched as Rayne walked quickly to her office. �Patient my ass!� she laughed. Rayne had met someone�and apparently it was someone special. She had never seen her boss like this before. She was determined to find out who this certain �someone� was.

Rayne closed the door behind her and set the flowers down then reached in her pocket and pulled out the card again as she sank down in her chair. She leaned back and reread the words, slower this time.

Just to let you know I�m thinking about you�and that I�m not giving up that easily.

Dale Jr.

She put the card down and tilted her head back against her chair. �Oh man�I hope he�s bluffing.� She said out loud to herself. �Because I don�t think I have enough willpower to turn him away twice.�

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Twenty One

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dale sat in the rental car outside of Rayne's veterinary clinic in Lake Tahoe. It had been almost a week since he'd sent the bouquet of flowers, and although he'd really wanted to deliver the flowers to her in person, he had tons of commitments that he couldn't reschedule and he also didn't want to seem too pushy...which was kind of contradictory since he'd put in the note with the flowers that he wasn't giving up easily.

It was the middle of the afternoon and Dale figured that Rayne would be at work for another couple of hours. His original plan was to wait until she was almost finished up for the day and then go in with Bud in tow...how could she resist Bud? But now that he was there, he wasn't really sure that he could wait that long to see her.

Closing his eyes, Dale pictured her beautiful face as memories of the kiss that they shared flooded his mind over and over again.

"Jesus." Dale muttered under his breath when he opened his eyes again a few moments later. He was breathing quite a bit heavier than usual, a light sweat had formed on his forehead, and he was more than a little aroused. If he got that excited just thinking about Rayne, he couldn't imagine....

Dale's thoughts were abruptly cut off when he heard the sound of Rayne's voice. He turned to his right, his breath catching when his eyes touched on her as she walked a dog, and it's owner to his car. Still watching as she talked to the dog's owner, Dale ducked down a bit and tipped his hat down over his face, not wanting to be seen just yet. He was thankful that Rayne didn't look in his direction as she went back inside.

After just seeing her, Dale knew that he had to see her now. He couldn't wait any longer. He would go insane if he had to. Climbing out of the car, Dale grabbed the pet carrier from the backseat. "Do not fuck this up." Dale warned the cat, although the light shining in his eyes would have told anyone how light-hearted his words were. After taking in a deep breath, Dale began walking to the clinic door.

*****

Rayne looked with a smile when she heard a soft knock on her office door. "Come in." She called and nearly laughed out loud when her secretary came through the door, her face flushed and her eyes wide.

"What is it, Hillary?" Rayne asked, still trying to hold in the laughter. The other woman's expression was absolutely comical!

Hillary took in a deep breath and was successful in calming herself down a little bit. "You have a new patient...a cat." She paused for a moment and then continued. "And the cat's owner is some hottie!"

Rayne smiled as she got up and out of her chair. That was just another perk of her job....not that she was complaining at all! She followed Hillary out into the waiting room to meet the patient and its owner as she did every time. She walked up the man, who's back was to her.

"Hi, I'm Dr. Ray--" Her words abruptly stopped when he turned around and she saw her it was.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Twenty Two

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For a moment, Rayne thought she was seriously going to pass out. The room started spinning around her, and if Hillary hadn�t reached out a steadying hand, she might have stumbled. She could not find any words, she was completely stunned.

She had been a little on guard for the first couple days after receiving the flowers, wondering what his next move would be, but after those first few days, she figured he had indeed been bluffing and let her guard down.

So now�she was completely stunned.

Dale himself was having his own problems finding his voice. It was one thing to have seen her from across the parking lot, but to have her this close, he honestly had to practice more self control than he ever had in his life.

He took a deep breath and stepped forward. �Hello Rayne.� He said softly. Rayne swallowed hard and struggled to regain some kind of control, but it was pretty much hopeless.

Hillary looked from Rayne to the man, back and forth a couple times, as a slow grin started to spread across her lips. It suddenly dawned on her that this was the man that had sent the flowers. And why did he look so damn familiar?

Rayne finally found her voice, although it sounded foreign, even to her. �W-what are you doing here?�

Dale raised an eyebrow as he grinned at her. �Isn�t in obvious?� he asked. He turned and picked up the cat carrier he had sat down in the chair and held it up. �I�m looking for a new doctor for Bud.�

Rayne�s eyes widened as she looked at the cat who was staring back at her, obviously annoyed at being cooped up in the box. For the first time in her career, she couldn�t remember how to be professional. Her patients always came first, but now she had completely forgotten about the cat.

�Oh!� she exclaimed, feeling her cheeks reddening. �Um, well why don�t you follow me into the exam room.� She turned and looked helplessly at Hillary, who was standing back watching intently with a knowing grin.

Rayne lead Dale and Bud to the back room and closed the door behind her. She watched as Dale bent down to set the carrier down and let Bud out. She took that time to not only admire the man in front of her, but to try and calm herself down.

She smiled when Bud emerged and stretched. He really was a gorgeous animal. He was a long haired gray and white cat. But as beautiful as the cat was, he was completely forgotten when his owner stood up and turned to face her.

�I�ve missed you.� He said huskily as he started towards her. He wasn�t going to hold back. No Earnhardt ever held back, and he wasn�t about to start now.

She backed away a little unconsciously. �Um,� she searched her mind frantically, praying for some kind of will power. �Why are you here?� she asked again.

He grinned, stopping just a close enough where they could feel each other�s body heat. �I already told you.� He smiled.

�Well yeah but I�m pretty sure they have vet�s closer to where you live.� She tilted her head as she spoke, looking down at Bud who was sitting in the same spot, still staring at her.

Dale shrugged. �None like you.� Was all he said.

She took a deep breath. �Dale�� she started but stopped when she wasn�t sure what she was going to say. She was still overwhelmed.

�I told you I wasn�t giving up.� He said softly, reaching out his hand to caress her cheek. Just like before, she leaned into his touch, unable to resist.

�Nothing has changed. We still wouldn�t work.� She whispered, her eyes pleading with him to understand. He shook his head.

�You�re not even giving us a shot.� He scolded. �I want you, with every fiber of my being. I think we can work, and I�m willing to try.�

Just his words were enough to weaken all her resolve. He was driving her insane, and she knew she wasn�t going to be able to turn him away again.

�Do you want me, Rayne?� he asked suddenly, his eyes boring into hers. The insecurity, hope and all the other emotions she saw there was her undoing.

�Yes.� She whispered, throwing caution to the wind. He closed his eyes at her words. When he opened them he saw all that he was feeling shining brightly in her blue eyes.

�Are you willing to try to make it work?� he asked, his voice gruff with emotion as he held his breath waiting for her answer.

Looking deep into his eyes, Rayne did the one thing she had never done with a man before. She answer with her heart.

�Yes.�

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Twenty Three

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kevin groaned loudly in his sleep and rolled over onto his back as the dream that he was having intensified. An instant later, he was suddenly jolted away when Brett's voice from the bunk below him woke him.

"Would you shut the fuck up! What the fuck are you doing up there? Pleasuring yourself?" Brett complained after he had been awakened several times by the noises coming from his band mate.

If the dream had gone any further, he just might have had to. "Damn near." Kevin grumbled as he ran a hand over his face, trying to get his bearings back. He was breathing heavy, his blankets were twisted around him, his body was bathed in sweat and he was very aroused.

He closed his eyes again and groaned inwardly when images of his dream flashed through his mind. The dream had taken place when they had all gone out after the last race in Florida, but after a bit it had been just him and Caelin at the club. It played out like that night had except after they kissed, she didn't walk away. She stayed and things had gone even further between them.

He knew he had to put her out of his mind. It wasn't as though he hadn't tried. He had and the more he tried to not think about Caelin, the more she was on his mind. As it was, he thought about her every day...several times a day.

He found himself wondering about her schedule at the time. The band had three consecutive days off coming up and the thought of seeing on those days had crossed his mind more than once. But, at the same time, he knew that he couldn't. He was getting married in three months, for God sakes! And he did love his fianc�e. He should be thinking of spending his free time with her and not Caelin! He shouldn't be dreaming of Caelin or even thinking about her! He couldn't seem to stop thinking about her though...or was it that he didn't want to?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Twenty Four

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�Mom? Dad?� Rayne called out as she walked through the front door, holding it open so Dale could follow her through. He gave her a worried look.

�Are you sure it�s okay to bring Bud in?� He asked for the fifth time, carrying his cat. She smiled and nodded.

�I�m positive. Dad loves animals, mainly cats, as much as I do. It�s where I got it from.� She grinned as she reached out to pet the cat behind the ears, smiling wider when he immediately began purring. �I thought you said he had attitude.� She said, reaching out to take Bud from Dale, settling him comfortably in her arms.

�He seems pretty happy and content to me.� She teased. Dale couldn�t resist leaning in and pressing his lips against hers. He pulled back before it could get too hot, not wanting her parent's first impression of him to be groping their daughter.

Dale smirked down at her, his eyes shining with happiness. �He�s in your arms�of course he�s happy and content.� Rayne blushed as she rolled her eyes at him.

She shook her head but cut off before she could say anything. She turned when she heard footsteps.

�Rayne.� She broke out into an even bigger smile when she saw her father coming towards them. �And who is this?� he asked, his eyes touching on Dale, then going to the cat in his daughters arms, his eyes lighting up. He immediately reached for the gray and white animal, and Dale had to hold back a chuckle. It was more than obvious where Rayne got her love of animals from.

�Well, Dad, you�re currently holding Bud.� Rayne laughed. �And this is Dale.� She said, introducing the two men. �Dale, this is my father, Charles Hudson.�

�It�s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Hudson.� Dale said sincerely as he shook the older man�s hand.

�You too.� Mr. Hudson said, studying the young man in front of him. �Have we met before? You seem familiar.�

Dale shook his head. �No, sir, I don�t believe we�ve ever met.� Rayne stepped forward.

�Dad, this is Dale Earnhardt Jr.� she said softly. Dale had to give the man credit. His eyes didn�t go wide, he didn�t look shocked, and he didn�t seem at all intimidated. He liked Rayne�s father immediately and could see them getting along very well.

�Ahhh, that would explain why you look so familiar.� Charles nodded, then smiled. �Do come in. Rayne�s mother should be home any time. Can I offer you a drink?�

Dale shook his head. �No thanks, I�m fine.�

�What about this little guy?� Charles asked, looking down at Bud who was falling asleep in the man�s arms. Dale shook his head at his cat. Had he not had Bud with him the entire trip, he would have sworn someone switched cat�s on him. Bud normally Bud was somewhat ill tempered with anyone aside from Dale, but since meeting Rayne and now her father, Bud was being a little angel. It was almost scary.

Charles looked at his daughter. �I think we still have some cat food in the pantry.� She nodded and turned then went into the kitchen. Charles looked back at the Budweiser driver and smiled. �She�s forever brining home strays, so we�ve got an endless supply of cat food, dog food, bird food and just about any other animal you could think of.

�I finally had to put my foot down when she was staying here one night and got a call about a sick horse, and she was ready to bring it here.� Dale�s eyes widened.

�A horse?� he laughed. Rayne walked back out and made a face.

�Yes a horse, and only because it was ill and it was closer to bring him here than to the clinic.� She defended herself with a grin. �And don�t even try it Dad, you were all for it. It was Mom who put her foot down!�

�I�m always the one to put my foot down. You�re father just can�t say no to you girls.� They all turned to find Mrs. Hudson standing in the doorway. Dale�s eyes widened as he took in the woman before her. It was now obvious whom Rayne and Caelin got their looks from. They were a carbon copy of their mother. Caelin looked more like her, both of them being fair skinned and blond. Rayne had taken some of her father�s darker traits.

Mrs. Hudson looked at Dale, her eyes lighting up as she grinned at her daughter who immediately groaned inwardly and started blushing. �Hello, I�m Shirley Hudson. And you are?� she asked, holding out her hand.

�Dale Earnhardt Jr. ma�am.� He said shaking her hand. Her smile widened as she looked at her youngest daughter.

�Well, I can certainly see why he was able to sweep you off your feet.� Shirley said, causing both Dale and Rayne to blush.

�Mom!� Rayne cried. Her mother laughed softly, then looked at the cat in her husband�s arms.

�And who is this?� she asked, stepping forward to show Bud some attention which he ate right up.

�This is Bud.� Dale said, shaking his head at his pet.

�Dale, please come in and sit down. You must stay for dinner.� Shirley invited, shooting her daughter a look that there was no other option. Rayne, still blushing, simply turned and lead the way into the living room where they all sat down.

�So, Dale. What are your intentions towards my daughter?� Shirley immediately asked.

�MOM!� Rayne exclaimed at the same time her father said, �SHIRLEY!�

She grinned sheepishly. �I�m sorry, but it�s not very often Rayne brings a man home, so he must be someone special, and I want to know.�

Rayne groaned and dropped her head in her hands. �Kill me now.� She muttered.

�Just think Charles, perhaps all this time we�ve been pestering the wrong daughter about a husband and kids.� Shirley chuckled.

Dale burst out laughing at Rayne�s shocked gasp. He was thoroughly enjoying himself. He could tell Rayne and her family were extremely close and he respected that.

Luckily, someone coming in the front door saved Rayne. �Hello!�

Rayne�s eyes lit up. �Saved!� she exclaimed as she jumped up and turned to face her sister, grinning at Caelin�s shocked expression at seeing who was in the living room.

�Uh, Dale?� Caelin looked confused, then at her sister. �Have I just stepped into the twighlight zone?� she asked. She smiled when she saw just how happy her sister looked. Not just her expression either. There was a glow about her she had never seen before and she knew Dale had put it there.

�It�s good to see you again, Dale.� Caelin said sincerely as Dale stood up and gave her a hug. �Oooh, this must be the famous Bud.� She said, petting the cat her father was still holding. She paused when she looked at her mother.

�Oh lord.� She muttered then looked at Rayne. �Has she been embarrassing you?�

Rayne nodded, her cheeks still red. �Yes.� She grumbled.

Caelin broke out into a huge grin. �Good, maybe she�ll get off my case now!�

***

�So there seems to have been some interesting developments in the past few hours. Fill me in.� Caelin said, unable to hold off any longer as she, her mother and Rayne cleaned up from dinner. Dale was in the living room with their father talking NASCAR.

Rayne beamed. �He stopped by the clinic, claiming to need a doctor.�

Caelin smirked. �But you�re not that kind of doctor.� She teased. Rayne laughed as their mother shook their head.

�This is much more than I need to hear.� Shirley exclaimed. Caelin grinned at her mother.

�Uh, Mom, how do you expect to become a grandmother?� she asked. Rayne laughed out loud at the look on their mother�s face.

�Well, um, of course I know what will happen, but I�d prefer not to know about it! Beside, I�m hoping you�ll both be married before that happens.� Shirley looked at them sternly.

Both girls giggled, turning red at the look. Caelin turned back to her sister. �So, where are things going from here?� she asked. �I thought you said you couldn�t fit in his world. Too hectic for you.�

Rayne nodded. �I did. But he pointed out that by leaving it at that, I wasn�t giving him a chance and he�s right. I�m still not sure I can take his lifestyle, but I�ll never know until I try. All I know is the instant I saw him today, there was no way I could turn him away a second time.�

Shirley nearly dropped the plate in her hand. �You turned him down before? Have I not taught you anything?� she exclaimed.

Caelin giggled. �Mom�s right you know.�

�Shut up.� Rayne threw at her sister then turned to her mother. �Mom, you know I like my simple life. I could never life in Caelin�s world, and Dale�s is even busier.�

�Well at least you�re giving it a chance. And besides, I think I�d be rather upset with you if you didn�t. He�s wonderful. Good manners, southern charm, that smile, those eyes��

Rayne and Caelin just started at their mother. �Gee Mom, want me to get out of the way so you can go after him?� Rayne teased, causing their mother to blush.

�Oh you know what I mean!� Shirley laughed. She then stopped and looked at her eldest daughter. �So what about you my dear? You haven�t mentioned anything, but I see the same thing in you I do in Rayne, although I also see sadness. Who is that certain someone who has you tied up in knots?�

Caelin�s smile immediately dropped and her shoulders slumped. �Mom, I really don�t want to talk about him, please.�

Shirley could tell her daughter was hurting and backed off, for now. �Okay, but before long we will sit down and have a long chat.�

Caelin laid her dishtowel down, finished with drying the dishes. She nodded as she turned and went out of the kitchen. Shirley looked at Rayne with concerned eyes.

Rayne sighed. �Just leave her alone on that subject, Mom. Please.� She whispered as she too walked out of the kitchen.

***

�I can�t believe you�re parent�s really want me to stay here.� Dale exclaimed as he dropped his bags in the guest bedroom he had been offered. Rayne smiled at him as she finished putting on the clean sheets.

�Mom and Dad are pretty fantastic. Just don�t let them grill you too bad.� She laughed. �Beside, they probably offered because they knew it was you either stay here, or stay with me.� She blushed as she said the words.

Dale grinned and walked over to her. �Stay with you, huh?� he smirked. �Are you offering?�

Rayne felt her heart speed up and found it difficult to breathe. Did she want him to stay with her? Hell yeah! Was she ready for what would happen if he did, she wasn�t so sure.

She didn�t have to answer because Dale reached out, threading his fingers through her hair as he brought her closer and dipped his head, capturing her lips with his own. She immediately opened for him, pressing her body against his, both of them moaning with passion and need.

He broke the kiss and tipped his head back taking a deep breath. �Think it�s probably better I stay here.� He said gruffly. The way she was pressed up against him, he knew he couldn�t hide just how much he wanted her. But like her, he wasn�t ready for that. He knew they had something special, and he wanted to make sure when they were finally �together� it was just as special.

She nodded, swallowing hard. �Yeah, you�re probably right.� She couldn�t figure out if she was more disappointed or relieved he felt the same way. He took her hand and sat her down on the bed and sat next to her.

�Listen I was gonna wait to ask you this, but figured why should I? On Monday I have to fly to New York. The awards banquet is on Friday night, but the whole week I have things I need to do. Interviews, shows, appearances, even get to go to the White House on Wednesday. Anyway, I wanted to know if you wanted to come with me. And be my date for the banquet.� He asked, holding his breath, waiting for her answer.

Her eyes widened. �Really?� she asked softly. He nodded and smiled, leaning forward to kiss her again.

�Really.� He said huskily when he pulled back. �There�s no one else I want with me.�

Rayne took a deep breath and let it out slowly. She knew taking the time off wouldn�t be an issue. And she wasn�t worried about the clinic, knowing she would be leaving it in the best of hands. And this would give her a look into the life of Dale Earnhardt Jr.

She smiled and nodded. �Okay, I�d love to go with you.�

Running Away II
2003 K&K Productions

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