Chapter 6
A couple days passed and Sonny knocked on Brenda's door. "Can I come in?"
B: (looked up from the schedule of the night's performance) "Sure. What's up?"
S: "I think you should cancel tonight's performance. It's too dangerous."
B: "I'm not doing it." She turned back to her notes.
S: "You're not doing it and that's it? Brenda, I said it's too dangerous and that's all you have to say, You're not doing it?"
B: "I won't disappoint my fans."
S: "Fuck your fans, this is your life!"
B: "They made my life."
S: (looked down) "I'm sorry, I didn't mean that to be as callous as it sounded. I know how much you care for your fans. But they won't be happy if something happened to you because you refused to cancel, okay postpone one show."
B: "No."
S: (ran his fingers through his hair) "Damn it, Brenda! Why are you being so difficult?"
B: "Do you know how much they pay for those damn tickets? I am not canceling on them."
S: "BRENDA!" (He walked over to her kneeling down, running his finger down his face) "I don't want you canceling out on me either."
B: "Cancel out on you? What are you talking about?"
S: "Don't get me wrong, I'm damn good at my job. But as my feelings for you have grown, I'm scared that I may lose you. If I lose you... Brenda, I don't know what I'd do."
B: "You won't. I'm not going anywhere. I swear it."
S: "You can't swear that when there is some psycho who has it in for you! You can't make guarantees. I had to learn that the hard way."
B: "I'm sticking around... for you."
S: "So you aren't changing your mind about tonight?" (Brenda shook her head) "Fine. You should finish getting ready. We leave in an hour."
He got up and walked out leaving an exasperated Brenda behind him.
An hour and a half later, Brenda was pacing backstage. Everyone was running around her, trying to get things ready.
Lo: "Girlfriend. You ready?"
B: "Been ready. Let's do this."
Luke went onstage. "All right everyone pipe down! The lady the evening is here and ready to do her thang for all of you. So here you go, the Queen of the Night!"
The crowd began applauding like crazy. Sonny looked at Brenda as she walked out on the stage. He scanned the crowd, scared for the first time in his life.
~I've got the stuff that you want
I've got the thing that you need
I've got more than enough
To make you drop to your knees
Cause I'm the queen of the night
The queen of the night
Oh yeah, oh yeah, oh yeah~
Sonny had been scanning the crowd, but when he heard the words he turned and looked at her. What the hell was she singing
~Don't make no difference if I'm wrong or I'm right
I've got the feeling and I'm willing tonight
Well I ain't nobody's angel
What can I say, I'm just that way~
Brenda glanced off the stage towards Sonny then back at her crowd. They were loving her and she loved performing for them. Although there was one other person she was performing for today
~I've got the stuff that you want
I've got the thing that you need
I've got more than enough
To make you drop to your knees
Cause I'm the queen of the night
The queen of the night
Oh yeah, oh yeah, oh yeah~
Sonny's mind was running wild with thoughts. (Oh yeah, you can make me drop to my knees anytime.) He shook his head. What was he doing? He was supposed to be surveying the place, not fantasizing. (But damn it would be good.) Stop it Corinthos, he muttered.
~You've got a problem with the way that I am
They say I'm trouble and I don't give a damn
But when I'm bad I know I'm better
I just want to get loose, and turn it up for you~
(Turn it up how?) Damn Brenda, I know you have other material to sing! Sonny tried his best to tune her out. But when she turned straight toward him their eyes locked.
~I've got the stuff that you want
I've got the thing that you need
I've got more than enough
To make you drop to your knees
Cause I'm the queen of the night
The queen of the night
Oh yeah, oh yeah, oh yeah~
That was it, he couldn't take it anymore. He ran out on the stage and scooped her up in his arms, carrying her off stage.
B: "SONNY! What are you doing?"
S: "Giving you trouble."
Lu: "What's up? You see him."
S: "No, but I just figured I would win while I was ahead, you know before the crowd broke out and stuff. See you later Luke." He continued to carry her towards the limo.
B: "Sonny put me down NOW!"
Sonny opened the door and set her down, scooting in beside her. He took her face in his hands and kissed her hard. His tongue demanding entrance into her mouth. Brenda sighed and kissed him back. She pulled him closer to her and ran her fingers in his hair. After a few moments, she pulled away.
B: (breathlessly) "What are you doing?"
S: "What you've wanted me to do for a long time." (He kissed her again then pulled away grinning) "Was that song chosen for a reason?"
B: (stared at him) "Just wanted you to know how I felt."
S: "Uh huh, so you can make me drop to my knees huh?"
B: "There's a lot of things a man can do on his knees." She smiled.
S: "I will not beg, but I'm open to anything else." He smiled.
B: (laughed) "I sure hope so."
S: "I love the way your mind works."
B: (raised an eyebrow and grinned) "Then you'll LOVE what I can do."
They pulled up at the house. Sonny got out and held out his hand.
S: "Then by all means show me."
Brenda followed him. They slowly walked up to her bedroom. Sonny closed the door behind them and turned to Brenda.
B: "Are you sure about this?"
S: "I thought that was my line."
B: (laughed) "Yeah, but I was the one who was always pushing."
S: "Yeah... (he pushed her onto the bed) Well, now I'm the one pushing." (He leaned down and caressed her face) "You are so beautiful, so beautiful."
He kissed her nose, then her lips one by one before taking her mouth in his. Brenda opened her mouth under his and ran her hands up and down his back. Sonny moaned and moved his lips down to kiss her neck. He tugged at the neck to her dress getting frustrated.
S: "Who the hell suggested you dress as Cleopatra anyway? I thought she dressed flimsy!"
B: (laughed) "What did you prefer I wore?"
S: "What I would prefer is not something to be seen by others. But I think I can do something about that now." (He tried to tug it down) "Brenda help me!"
B: (giggling) "I think you're doing a pretty good job."
S: (growled) "Fine." (He took it and ripped it off her body tossing it to the floor) "I like this look better anyway."
Brenda gasped as Sonny looked her over. She began to redden under his gaze. He looked at her and chuckled.
B: "You're laughing at me?"
S: "Oh baby, am I making you blush? Red is most definitely your color."
B: (reddened even more) "Well, then... I'm glad you like it."
S: "I do and what is this Ms. Barrett? No underclothes, I'm shocked." His hand moved to press against her womanhood.
Brenda inhaled sharply as Sonny explored her with his fingers.
B: "They... uh... get in the way."
S: "I agree." (His fingers moved deeper into her) "Do you like it when I do this or should I stop?" He pulled his fingers out.
Brenda groaned involuntarily. Sonny smiled as his fingers moved into her again.
B: (between gritted teeth) "You're bad."
S: "I thought you were bad too?" (He brought his fingers out licking them) "You taste so good."
Brenda moaned lightly and pulled Sonny down for a passionate kiss. She began unbuttoning his shirt and became impatient. She pulled it off of him, breaking the buttons. She kissed every exposed skin of his chest, bringing her tongue out to taste him. Sonny groaned. He pushed her back down as he kissed her mouth hard. His face crashing down on hers as her hands moved to his belt. She pushed down his pants as he kicked them off. Brenda's hand trailed its way down his sculpted body, stopping on the elastic of his underwear. She worked it off slowly and then caressed his manhood. Sonny groaned and kissed Brenda deeper as she cupped him.
S: (against her mouth) "Do you have any idea how much I want you?"
B: (smiling) "I got a bit of an idea." She gripped a bit tighter.
S: (yelped) "What the hell are you trying to do to me?"
B: "You wanted bad... this is bad." She pushed him so that he was laying next to her and then brought her lips down to his manhood. He let out a breath as she licked the shaft, teasing him. She chuckled.
S: "Woman, are you trying to kill me?"
B: "Kill you? No, what would I do with you then?" She then brought him fully into her mouth and began slowly bobbing her head up and down.
S: (grabbed a hold of the sheets as she brought him closer to orgasm) "Brenda... I don't know how much longer I can hold out. Baby, I'm supposed to be doing this, not you."
B: "Shhh... you talk to much."
She continued what she was doing. Sonny tried to hold off but he couldn't any more. He released inside of her as she let the juices travel through her mouth. She came up and kissed him. He flipped her on her back and entered her swiftly. Brenda held onto him as they began to move together as one. Sonny took Brenda's hand and laced their fingers. He held her hands high above her head and brought his lips down to her nipple and began to suckle lightly. Brenda moaned, she didn't ever recall feeling such pleasure. Sonny continued thrusting into her, deeper and harder than the time before. He slowed down to deep, hard, slow, rhythmic movements. Brenda wrapped her legs around Sonny to pull him closer to her. Their movements quickened slightly. Sonny's breathing came out ragged. He buried his face in her neck as he moved deeply within her. A few moments later, Brenda screamed out and began to tremble underneath him. Sonny exploded inside of her, screaming out her name. Brenda was on the verge of orgasm. He continued to pump inside of her until she trembled uncontrollably with pleasure. He slowed down until he finally stopped. He laid his head on her chest. Brenda slowly ran her fingers through his hair as they both came down from the waves of ecstasy.
?
-Chapter 7
Sonny stirred awake and looked at the clock on the bedside table. It was four in the morning. He kissed Brenda's cheek. She woke up.
B: "Hey you."
S: "Morning..." (He kissed her lips) "I really hate to leave, but I should get going before someone sees me."
B: (groan) "Do you have to?"
S: "Brenda, I don't want people saying things like I've taken advantage of you."
B: "They know you haven't."
S: "Brenda... just let me do this okay? I think we should break it to them not just have them happen upon us naked."
B: (sighed) "You'll be back tomorrow right?"
S: "I'm not going anywhere today. That is unless you don't want me?"
B: "Of course I want you." Brenda's gaze lingered over him. "I REALLY want you."
S: "If you keep looking at me like that, I won't be able to leave."
B: "That's the idea."
Sonny kissed her hard. His lips attacking hers as he suckled and tugged on hers. Brenda moaned and tried to pull him to her, but he pulled back. A small sound came out of her mouth.
B: "I can't wait until later."
S: "Baby..."
B: "But I'm gonna be a good girl. Go before I change my mind."
S: (kissed her again) "I'll see you later today, and I'll REALLY SEE you later tonight." He kissed her again, then finally pulled himself away. He put on his clothes and snuck into the hall. As he was turning the corner, he ran into a smiling Luke.
Lu: "Going somewhere?"
S: "Uhh I was checking on Brenda..."
Lu: (looked at his watch) "At four o'clock in the morning?"
S: "Well umm, she looked really shaken up."
Lu: "Don't try to kid me man. I know you. It's no problem. Enjoy your stroll."
Luke laughed and walked away. Sonny breathed a sigh a relief. He didn't think Luke would have a problem, but the rest. Well thank goodness he didn't have to deal with them. Julia came from around the corner. Damn spoke too soon he thought.
S: "Julia... hey."
J: "What are you doing here at this time of night Mr. Corinthos?"
S: "I came to check on your sister. She was upset earlier tonight."
J: "At four o'clock in the morning?"
S: "I couldn't sleep." Well, it wasn't a lie. With Brenda in his arms the last thing he wanted to do was sleep.
J: "Well, have a nice night... morning." (She began to walk away but stopped in her tracks) "Maybe you can come to my room tomorrow night? I'm sure I won't be able to sleep either." She walked down the hall.
Sonny just stared at her. What the hell was that all about? Did she have feelings for him he didn't know about? Or was she just being sarcastic? Well on any account everyone would know about it so what was the use to leave. He opened the door and stepped back inside. He slid back out of his clothes and tiptoed over to the bed, sliding in. He kissed Brenda's cheek and pulled her into his arms. Brenda turned and looked into his eyes. She smiled.
B: "What are you doing?"
S: "Spending the rest of the morning with you in my arms. Are you complaining?"
B: "Of course. But what changed your mind?"
S: "Half the house saw me. May as well make good use of time before we get chewed out."
Brenda giggled as Sonny covered her with his body and started to make love to her.
Later that day, Brenda and Lois were in the dance studio studying her previous night's performance.
Lo: "So... what happened last night?"
B: "What are you talking about?"
Lo: "Oh, does someone have a bad memory?" (She took and fast forwarded to the part where Sonny swept her off the stage) "Now I didn't see any potential danger."
B: (smiled slightly) "Well Sonny obviously did."
Lo: "Uh huh... are you going to tell me girlfriend? Don't make me come after you and choke it out!"
B: (sighed) "Lo, it was wonderful! He's so...so GOOD IN BED!"
Lo: (laughed loud) "BREN! You didn't? You did, oh my (fanning self) details, girl! I mean how did it happen? Well I know how, but I mean where did it come from. He's only been here a month or so."
B: "We've been wanting each other FOREVER Lo. Yesterday, the song got to him I guess."
Lo: "Oh yeah, that song can do that to you. OH, that was why you kept looking towards him! Bad Brenda! OH, I'm so loving this. So does everyone know?"
B: "I think Luke caught him sneaking out of my room last night."
Lo: "Oh shit! Did he say anything to you, when you saw him? You know he considers you his daughter."
B: "I think Luke's wanted this for a while."
Lo: "Well, I'm happy if you are, but you know what? Julia isn't going to be happy about this. I think she likes him."
B: (scowled) "She does not."
Lo: "Okay, maybe she doesn't. But there is definitely something there. She gets this dreamy look when he's around. You are too busy staring at him to notice it."
B: "Well, I'm going to have to start paying attention."
Lo: (laughed) "Don't worry. Sonny pays attention to only you."
B: "Yeah?"
Lo: "Oh yeah. I think that is why Ned dislikes him so much. He sees the connection."
B: "Why would Ned care?"
Lo: "You're his best friend. Of course he cares about who you go out with. He doesn't want to see you hurt."
B: "Well he needs to mind his business."
Lo: "Hey, if you tell him to butt out he will. He listens to you. When you told him to lay off Sonny he did right?"
B: "You like him don't you Lo?"
Lo: (looked away) "Who Sonny? Of course not!"
B: "Don't act stupid Lo."
Lo: "Brenda, he's so sweet, and gentle, and caring, and handsome, and... I guess that would be a yeah huh?"
B: (smiled) "Want me to talk to Ned for ya?"
Lo: (smiled) "Get that grin offa ya face! Don't you try to play matchmaker on me Brenda Barrett!"
B: "I wanna help Lo."
Lo: "I think this is something I should do on my own. You know take initiative. It will drive my point across more you know? If I had you do it then it would seem like I'm unsure or shy. And heaven knows I'm nowhere near shy!" She laughed.
Brenda laughed with her.
B: "Well what's taking you so long?"
Lo: "Enough! Now back to YOU and SONNY! So what are you two going to do now?"
B: "We're gonna try to go with the flow. I mean we don't want to push anything."
S: (opened the door and walked in) "Who's pushing?" (smiled and walked over to Brenda, kissinn her on the lips lightly) "Hey little chica. Hi Lois."
Lo: (smiled waving) "And hello to you. Should I leave you two in privacy?" (Brenda nodded) "Nice seeing you Sonny. See ya later." She left closing the door behind her.
S: (looked at Brenda with a glint of mischief in his eye) "Now what you put her out for?"
B: "I wanted to spend time with you... alone." She wrapped her arms around him and pulled him close.
S: "Hmmm... I like the sound of that." (He pulled her in closer until their lips were inches apart. Their breathing mingled. He gently brushed her lips with his) "Hey, guess what?"
B: "What?"
S: "I love you."
B: (eyes flickered with a bit of surprise, but she smiled) "I love you too."
S: "Are you surprised I said it? I said it last night so you have to know what I feel?"
B: "It's just... It's going to be a surprise for a little while. But I'm going to love hearing you say it over and over again."
S: "Oh? I love you Brenda Barrett. And I plan on spending everyday of the rest of our lives telling you so."
B: "You really mean that."
S: "I don't say things I don't mean Brenda. That is something you can always believe."
B: "I love you."
S: (traced her lips with his fingers) "Say it again?"
B: (whispering) "I love you."
S: (shivered) "Those words....they are mere words but they make me feel so damn good inside."
B: "YOU make me feel so damn good inside."
S: "I can make you feel a lot more too. Wanna go with me to the guesthouse. I (looking around) seem to have left something there."
B: "Which is what?"
S: "The bed." He dimpled seductively.
B: (laughed) "Let's go."
They ran to the guesthouse. Little did they know Julia was staring out the window watching them with a lone tear forming on her eye.
?
-Chapter 8
Days had passed and word of Brenda and Sonny's relationship got around. Ned didn't like it but accepted it. Julia on the other hand was dead set against it. Brenda was laying on her bed when Julia brought her a package.
Ju: "This was just delivered."
B: (took it from her, looked at the return address and threw it to the side) "I'll open it later."
Ju: (shrugged) "Whatever." She walked to the door and Brenda stopped her.
B: "You know, what the hell is your problem?"
Ju: "Nothing."
B: "Don't tell me nothing. I know you better than you think."
Ju: "You don't know shit about me Brenda! I've been in your shadow all your fucking life. How dare you presume you know anything about me. You don't know what's like to always be known as Brenda Barrett's big sister. So don't you dare say you know me!"
B: (sitting up on the bed) "Don't give me that Julia! I did what I had to do for MYSELF! Unlike you, I didn't have a mother most of my life and our father didn't give a damn about me!"
Ju: "I'm getting so tired of hearing you throw that in my face! I am not responsible for how Daddy treated you! I tried my best to make you feel like we were treated equal. But then Daddy died and you rose to stardom but you forgot to take me with you. But oh no, I forgot I'm your manager so I should be content enough!"
B: "What exactly do you want to do? Sing back up? I've done all I can for you! What more do you want?"
Ju: "Just forget I ever said anything, it's not as if I expected you to care!"
She stormed out of the room leaving Brenda to think about what had just occurred. Brenda angrily through her papers toward the door. Sonny walked in and watched as they floated to the ground.
S: "What the hell is wrong with you?" (He noticed the tears running down her face) "I'm sorry I shouldn't have said it like that. What's wrong sweetheart?" (Brenda shook her head) "Tell me, Brenda. I may be able to help you." He walked and sat down next to the bed.
B: (shook her head again) "She makes me so mad sometimes!"
S: "Who? Julia? What did she do?"
B: "She's complaining about being in my shadow."
S: "I'm sorry baby. I know that must be hard on you."
B: "She doesn't seem to remember how in the first years of our lives, I was always in HER shadow."
S: (nodded) "I'm an only child so I wouldn't know, but...you know what? C'mere." (He scooted back against the bed sitting on top of the box she had thrown to the side earlier) "What's this?"
B: (looked at the package) "Oh, Julia brought it in before."
S: "Where did she get it?"
B: "I didn't ask."
S: "Can I open it?"
B: "Go ahead." (Sonny opened it and peeked inside. What he saw made his stomach sick. There was a Brenda Barrett doll with its head chopped off and blood around the neck. There was a note. He pulled it out closing the box so Brenda wouldn't see. It read: THE TIME IS APPROACHING WHERE THIS WILL BECOME A REALITY AND I WILL HAVE THE REAL THING. Sonny threw it back inside the box and stood up. She looked up at him) "What is it? You look sick."
S: "Nothing. You shouldn't see it." (He took the box and opened the door) "LUKE!!!!!!"
B: (stood up from the bed. Her voice was shaky) "What is it Sonny?"
S: "Brenda... please baby... I don't want you to see this." His eyes pleaded with her.
B: "Was it another threat?"
Lu: (walked into the room) "What's up?"
S: "I want you to take this box and put it with the other things." (he looked at Brenda) "I don't want you to look at it, but I also want you to see why I don't want you doing anymore shows. Will you just take my word or must I show you?"
B: "Show me."
S: "Brenda..."
B: "Then I'm gonna keep performing."
S: "Luke, show her." (Luke was looking down at the box, horror etched on his face) "Brenda... go ahead, but don't say I didn't try to stop you." (He walked up behind her placing his hands on her shoulders bracing her for what she was about to see. Brenda slowly walked up to Luke and then looked down into the box. She gasped and covered her hands with her mouth) "Luke get it out of here man. Brenda, sweetheart..."
Brenda turned to look up at him and Luke walked out of the room. "What?"
S: "Are you okay?" (Brenda nodded and slowly walked to the bed. She sat on it's edge. Sonny followed) "Talk to me. Do you see why I don't want you to perform? Baby, if I lost you I would die."
B: "You won't lose me."
S: "Are you saying you're not going to cancel?"
B: "I'm going to cancel. Just for one night though."
S: "Brenda! DAMN IT! What the hell is one night? He will just plan it for the next! Baby, I know I'm here to protect you but you aren't making my job easy."
B: (looked up at him for a long time before finally speaking) "Fine. I'll cancel them all."
S: "I know how much your fans means to you, but baby they will understand. You have no idea what this means to ME Brenda."
B: "That's the only reason I'm doing it. It doesn't mean I have to like it." She stood up and began pacing the room.
S: "Oh, so you are mad at me now? I'm not the one trying to kill you Brenda. I'm the one trying to save you!"
B: "I didn't say I was mad I just said I didn't like it. What the hell is your problem?"
S: "I'm busting my ass here trying to protect you and it seems like I'm taking your life a little more seriously than you are. That pisses me the fuck off Brenda. If you don't care enough to save yourself then what the hell am I doing here?"
B: "What ARE you doing here? Maybe it's better that you left."
S: "WHAT? Are you firing me?"
B: "I don't want to see you right now."
S: "You don't want to... fine." (He walked towards the door. softly) "Brenda... never mind."
Brenda sat on the floor and looked at her hands. Sonny looked one last time before closing the door as he left. He walked down the hall thinking if he had just ruined the best thing to happen in his life. Brenda placed her head in her hands and cried, thinking if she had just ruined the best thing to happen in her life. It was later that night when Brenda was sadly walking around the grounds. She was caught off guard when she bumped into someone.
B: "Sorry." She looked up and met Sonny's eyes.
S: "No, it was my fault. I wasn't watching where I was going." (He tilted up her chin staring into her tear-swollen eyes) "You okay?"
Brenda nodded and then shook her head. (hoarsely) "No."
S: "Can I help?"
B: (nodded) "Yes."
S: (opened his arms and Brenda went into them willingly) "Oh baby, I'm so sorry."
B: "So am I. Don't leave me."
S: "I'm not going anywhere ever again no matter how hard you try to throw me out." (He chuckled) "I love you Brenda."
B: "I love you too. So much it hurts."
S: "It hurts me too sweetheart. Especially when we fight. I hate fighting with you."
B: "Me too." (She looked up at Sonny and he touched his forehead to hers. She closed her eyes) "I was on my way to see you and beg for your forgiveness."
S: "For my forgiveness? Baby, I'm the one who hurt you!"
B: "I didn't want to listen to reason."
S: "I know, but I had no reason to yell and get upset with you. This is your life and your choice."
B: "My life is in danger and I gave it to you. I should've listened."
S: "It's okay. You're listening now so that is what counts." (He kissed her hands. Brenda watched as he kissed her fingers lovingly and then looked in her eyes. She sighed as his lips descended on hers and opened her mouth under his gentle probing. Sonny's hands wound around her waist pulling her deeper into him as the kiss grew more demanding. He explored her mouth with his tongue, drawing back slightly, breathless.) "Let's go."
B: "Where?"
S: "Away. Far away from here."
B: "Away?"
S: "I want to take you on a much deserved vacation."
B: (smiling) "Really?"
S: "Yes, really. You'll go?"
B: "Definitely."
S: (smiled and twirled her around) "I have the perfect place in mind. You can even meet my father."
B: "Your father?"
S: "Yeah. We were reunited after a long time. We didn't hit off so well, but he is a stubborn old man and eventually I had no choice but to give in to him. I think you will like him though."
B: "I'm sure I will. Is he a lot like you?"
S: (nodded) "Although I will never admit it in front of him. When would you like to leave?"
B: "Tonight if we can!"
S: "Wow, ummm I need a little time to prepare. What about tomorrow morning?"
B: (shrugged) "Tomorrow's cool too." She laughed.
S: "Tonight... (he took her hands) Tonight I want to hold you in my arms and take away all the fears."
B: "I'd love that."
S: "C'mon." He led her towards the guesthouse.
?
-Chapter 9
Brenda and Sonny arrived in the mountains in record time. Sonny helped her out of his car and they knocked on the door. Mike came and answered.
S: "Hey Pops."
M: "Michael! What are you doing here?"
S: "Pops, I'd like you to meet Brenda Barrett. She's being stalked."
B: "SONNY!"
S: "What? It's the truth. Oh yeah, and I'm in love with her."
M: (smiled) "Well it's nice to meet you Brenda. Please come in." (He stepped aside as Sonny and Brenda walked in) "Has my son been treating you well?"
S: (looked at Brenda) "Yeah, I'd like to know your answer on that, it had better be yes!"
B: (laughed) "He's treating me like a Goddess."
S: (beamed) "I know how to be a gentleman when I have the right incentive."
B: "And I'm the right one?"
S: "You better believe it baby." (He kissed her lightly. Mike coughed) "What old man? You're interrupting."
M: "You thought maybe you could've given me a little notice?"
S: "Like you haven't ever done this before. Besides now that we are here don't you have some cooking to do? We're starving!"
M: "Why don't YOU cook? You know how."
B: (raised an eyebrow) "Sonny cooks?"
S: "Oh baby, you mean you didn't know? I'm the best gourmet chef you will ever meet!"
M: "AFTER me."
S: "YOU WISH! Now Pops, you are good, but you are not near the best."
M: "Well I guess we should let Brenda decide that."
S: "Brenda, you mind?"
B: "Of course I don't mind. I love to eat and having two men cook for me? Even better!"
S: "You better have eyes for only this one little chica."
B: (smiling softly) "Always."
S: "I love you baby."
B: "I love you back."
Mike looked at them and shook his head as he made his way into the kitchen.
S: "You do huh? How much?"
B: "More than my life."
S: "And I love you more than mine. You know I would die for you? That says a lot about my job, but since I've fell in love with you it's not just a job of the mind but of the heart as well."
B: "It can put you in danger."
S: "It can keep you safe."
B: "I don't want to lose you."
S: "You won't sweetheart. You won't."
B: "Swear it?"
S: "I can't do that, but I will do my best baby."
B: "I can't wait for this to be over so that you can go back to retirement."
S: "I'm ready for it baby."
B: (nodded) "Are we getting any closer?"
S: (shook his head) "Not unless you continue the note. It seems like he is going to make his move soon. And if he is serious he is going to hunt you down which is why I preferred that you didn't do the shows. That way we made him come to us. That is also why I wanted to bring you here."
B: (sighed and shook her hair out of her face) "How long are we staying here?"
S: "As long as you want to sweetheart."
B: "You sure?"
S: "Well, it can't be forever because I do want to get this guy. But as much time as you need to relax, I'm prepared to give."
B: "I think I'd like it here."
S: "You mean as in to stay?"
B: "For a little while."
S: "That can be arranged. What about everyone else?"
B: "Can we have a little time alone first?"
S: "Oh yeah!" (He pulled her into his embrace) "I'm so lucky to have you in my life."
B: "So a good thing came out of this stalking crap."
S: "I would consider us to be a very good thing."
B: "Better than that."
S: "You know what I forgot to show you where my old room is. Want to see it?" He smiled mischievously.
B: (grinned) "Love to."
Sonny led her up to his room and opened the door. It was still the same. "What you think?"
Brenda walked in and looked around the room. She smiled and walked towards the window looking out at the view. The river lay below.
B: "I like."
S: "I thought you might." (He walked up placing his arms around her) "I haven't been here in a long time."
B: "You should come more often. It seems so relaxing here."
S: "It is, I'm going to have to take you for a ride on the boat. You will love it."
B: "If I'm with you, I know I will."
S: (smiled kissing her forehead) "Are you happy you came?"
B: (pulled him close) "Oh yeah. I didn't realize how much I needed this."
S: "A vacation? You work too hard baby."
B: "I don't find it work, I find it fun. I wouldn't want to be doing anything else."
S: "I know that, but... (Sigh) ...I'm just happy you are resting."
B: "I'm sorry I fought you so hard on this."
S: "It's okay baby, we're here now."
B: (looked into his eyes and smiled. She caressed his cheek and then kissed his lips softly) "You know what I want?"
S: (looked at her lips) "Hmm?"
B: "I want YOU to make love to ME."
S: (pulled her closer into his arms) "I think that is feasible."
His lips crashed down on hers as he lightened the kiss. He traced her lips with his tongue nibbling on her lower lip. His tongue slid into her mouth to play with her own. Brenda moaned softly. She tangled her fingers in his silky hair, pulling him closer. Her hands roamed down his face, caressing his neck, down his chest and around his waist. Sonny moved her slowly over to the bed where he laid her down then pulled back long enough to take off his clothes. He reached down tugging off her boots then her socks. His hands trailed up her legs where he eased down her leggings. His hands felt under her shirt then pulled it up and over her head. Her breasts were perky to his touch. Brenda sighed as Sonny caressed one nipple and took the other in his mouth. She arched against him and held his head in place, giving him more of an incentive. She brought her leg up and Sonny softly trailed his hand down her side, placing it on her thigh. He slid his hands in between her legs caressing her as his mouth continued to reek havoc on her breasts. He kissed her valley and moved back up to her mouth.
S: "Brenda... I need you."
B: "Baby, you have me."
S: "No, I need you forever and I... I need you now."
Brenda looked into his eyes as she spread her legs a little wider. Sonny settled himself in between her legs and entered her slowly. Brenda closed her eyes as he filled her and sighed contentedly.
B: "I love you."
S: (moving slowly within her) "I love you baby."
He kept his slow pace moving in and out loving the feel of her as she re-welcomed him each and every time. Brenda wrapped her legs around Sonny's waist, bringing him in closer. He moaned and buried his head in her neck as he thrusted into her and then slowly pulled back. Brenda went along with his pace, shuddering with every stroke he made. Sonny moved deeper and deeper within her with each stroke. He could feel himself losing control.
S: "Oh... Brenda..."
Brenda pulled him closer to him as her breath came out in gasps. Sonny kissed her hard as he exploded within her. He kept the pace going so that she can follow suit. She did so a few moments later, screaming out his name in the process. Sonny moved slowly and then finally collapsed on top of her. Their breathing was ragged as Sonny slowly moved over to the side of her, pulling her with him.
S: "You are so wonderful, do you know that?"
B: "I'm not."
S: "Oh baby but you are. You know I wouldn't lie to you. You have made me feel whole again. I owe my heart to you Brenda, and it's yours."
B: "Well you know my heart... my life... my soul, it's yours. All yours."
S: "I love you Brenda Barrett for always."
B: "And I'll love you longer than that." She wrapped her arms around him and buried her head in his neck.
M: (knocking on the door) "Okay you two love birds! Dinner's ready."
B: (groaned) "Sonny, get up."
S: "Why? It's just food."
B: (laughing) "He cooked for us."
S: "And? (Brenda looked at him) All right All right."
B: (She watched him get up and gazed over his body lovingly) "God you're beautiful."
S: (turned around then looked at himself) "No not really. Now you, that's beauty baby."
B: (blushed) "I'm hardly that. But you... you're breathtaking."
S: (went and knelt between her legs as she continued sitting on the bed) "Why do you doubt yourself? You are wonderful but you don't think so. You are damn sure beautiful but you don't want to admit that either. Why Brenda?"
B: (shrugged and tried to change the subject) "Whatever your father made, it sure smells good."
She went to stand up but he refused to move. His hold on her legs tightened as she sat back down.
S: "Baby?"
B: "What is it?"
S: "Why won't you answer the question? Did someone hurt you or make you think that you weren't good enough? Because damn it baby, they lied. You are."
B: "It doesn't really matter. It's over now."
S: "It does matter... to me."
B: (turned away as tears sprang to her eyes) "It was my father."
S: (got up and sat next to her, turning her face to his) "Tell me."
B: "He hated me and he made it known. I was never good enough for him. I wasn't smart, I wasn't beautiful, I didn't know how to do ANYTHING right. I was just a waste."
S: "You still believe that? After all this stardom and all the people who love you. After me?"
B: "When it's pounded in your mind over and over for most of your life, you tend to believe it."
S: "Do you trust me?"
B: "You should know the answer to that by now."
S: "Well then you should know by now that I wouldn't lie to you. I don't say things to make people feel better Brenda. I say things because I mean them."
B: "It's going to take a while for that to sink in Sonny. You do understand don't you?"
S: "I understand that Brenda, but when I tell you you're an intelligent, beautiful, wonderful, enticing, damn sexy woman don't doubt me. Just believe it, even if it hasn't sunk in."
B: (smiled slightly) "Okay."
S: "Okay." (He kissed her temple) "Ready to eat?"
B: "Yeah."
Sonny got dressed then helped her back into her clothes. They walked down the stairs into the dining room.
M: "It took you two long enough. Do I have that to look forward to while you're here? You're being upstairs all the time?"
B: (blushed) "Sorry."
S: "Don't be sorry, he's just talking junk! Leave it be Pops."
M: (smiled at Brenda) "You'll have to get used to it. I like sticking my nose where it doesn't belong."
S: "I still don't like it. What you cook?"
M: "What you see. Chicken, mashed potatoes corn on the cob. It was the best I could do without more notice that I was having guests."
S: "I'm not complaining." He served Brenda a plate then his own.
B: (took a bite of the mashed potatoes) "This is good. How did you get it so creamy?"
M: "It's a secret recipe." He smiled.
B: "I'll get it outta ya eventually."
M: "You can try my pretty."
S: "Pretty? Whoa whoa, quit moving in on my girl Pops."
B: "Now Sonny, if you want me to start believing in myself, I have to accept compliments don't I?" She winked at Mike.
S: (looked at her with a twinkle in his eye) "Just compliments baby. You can't get "other" things from anywhere but here."
B: (laughed softly) "I wouldn't want it from anywhere else."
M: "Must we discuss this at the dinner table? Son, you've been without a woman too long."
S: "Look who's talking!"
M: "Hey!" (He paused) "Just cause it's true doesn't mean that you have to remind me of it!"
S: (grinned) "Isn't it fun watching the old man fidget?"
B: (laughed) "Leave him alone Sonny."
S: "Aww Brenda why?"
B: "Because he's blushing!"
S: "Sooooo? Brenda ain't he cute when he blushes? Don't answer that. I better be the only cute person you look at."
M: "Enough! Brenda I hope you enjoy your meal. Michael, grow up!" (He stood from the table) "I'm gonna take a walk."
S: (laughed) "Oh Pops, come on, I was just playing with ya! (Mike kept walking) FINE! It ain't my fault you can't take a joke." (He turned to Brenda) "What?"
B: "You really love him don't you?"
S: "Yeah, I just like to give him a hard time every now and then."
B: "You told me yesterday that you didn't get along before. Can I ask what happened?" S: "He left my mom when I was five."
B: "For no reason?"
S: "I guess, I've never asked him."
B: "What made you forgive him?"
S: "My mom is gone, I have no one left. I just decided it was time to let go of the bitterness."
B: "How old were you when your mother died?"
S: "I was sixteen. I wasn't staying with her and I... it is my fault. I shouldn't have left her."
B: "How was it your fault?" (Sonny turned away) "Sonny, how did your mother die?"
Sonny shook his head as tears fell from his eyes. He threw a glass across the room and it shattered against the wall.
S: "DAMN HIM! Why'd he leave us! Why?" (Brenda jumped in her seat and looked up at Sonny. She didn't say anything as he stalked around the room) "It was his job to protect us, not mine. I failed, I couldn't I tried but I couldn't... I swear I tried Brenda. I swear it."
He broke down in the middle of the floor falling to his knees. Brenda rushed to him and put her arms around him, bringing her close.
B: (whispering hoarsely) "Baby, what happened?"
S: "That fucking bastard beat her and beat her. He wouldn't stop; sometimes he beat me too. And I tried to stop him, but I was so little."
B: "It's gonna be okay sweetheart. It's all over now."
She kissed his head softly and rocked with him on the floor as the sound of the water flowing in the river, filled the room.
?
-Chapter 10
Later that night, Brenda was rubbing lotion on her legs while Sonny was looking out the window at the lake. He hadn't said anything at all since his breakdown earlier. Brenda closed the cap and sighed as she watched him. Sonny continued to stare off into the water. It soothed him, well not really but he couldn't stand to look at Brenda. He knew he had scared her earlier and he was ashamed. Brenda let out a small breath and slid off the bed. She slowly walked over to him and placed her hands on his shoulder. She kissed his back.
B: "Honey..."
S: "Leave it alone Brenda."
B: "But it bothers you."
S: "It does but... I don't want to scare you again, so just drop it please."
B: "Baby, you didn't scare me."
S: "I threw something at you! I... I screamed and... oh God."
He put his face in his hands. Brenda turned Sonny to face her and placed her hands on his.
B: "Sonny, it's okay. I understand. You didn't hurt me. You never could, I know that."
S: "I might... I didn't have the best role model. It's possible that... that..." He got up and walked around the room.
B: "That what?"
S: "I may hurt you Brenda. If I ever hurt you I would kill myself. I couldn't... oh baby, I'm sorry. I can't do this. I just can't."
B: "We don't have to talk if you don't want to. We can just sit here." (Sonny nodded. He sat down on the bed and sighed. Brenda walked over to him and got behind him on the bed. She kneaded his shoulders getting rid of the tension) "You know I'm here for you if you ever need, don't you?"
S: (nodded. His hand came on top of hers and he squeezed) "Yeah, and I thank you for being here with me now."
B: (kissed his shoulder) "I love you."
S: "I love you too baby." (He sighed again) "I'm sorry I don't want to have you down on your vacation. Let me go for a walk and clear my head. I'll be in a better mood when I come back okay?"
B: (slight frown) "Okay."
S: (His finger traced the frown) "Don't be upset baby, I just need the time."
B: "I understand. Hurry back okay?"
S: "To you? Of course." (He kissed her cheek then left. He went for a walk along the dock staring into the water. He heard a twig snap and quickly turned around) "Oh it's just you what do you want Pops, I'm not in the mood."
M: "I just came down for a walk." (He peered at Sonny) "What's up Michael?"
S: "Nothing that you can fix now."
M: "Well maybe Brenda can help huh?"
S: "No and neither are you so can you leave?"
M: (looked at him and shrugged) "You would think that after all this time, you'd be able to talk to me when something's bothering you."
S: "You fucking left me! That's what bothering me! It is your fault that Ma is dead! You left and he came and that was it. The end for us all! YOU .. YOU DID IT!"
M: (stepped back and caught his breath) "I didn't kill her."
S: "You left us! She got with that bastard and he... he...." (Sonny broke down. He feel to his knees pounding the earth) "Why did you do that? Why did you go away like that?"
M: "I was hurting her. I didn't want to do that anymore."
S: "No, you hurt when you left! Besides you couldn't have hurt like he did, you couldn't have."
M: "I was breaking her down Michael. I couldn't do that to someone so beautiful."
S: "Of course not, so just let someone come along and cover that beauty with bruises. Yeah that'll work."
M: "Don't you think that if I would've known that was happening to her I would've done everything in my power to save her?"
S: (got up walking away) "This is why I didn't want to talk to you. I knew I would blame you. Why couldn't you have just walked away."
M: "I don't want to walk away from you anymore."
S: "So you want to stand here and take this abuse that you don't deserve? I know you aren't to blame but I can't stop myself from being mad at you. Being mad at me."
M: "Give me your anger. I DO deserve it. I hurt you both more than I've ever wanted. Why not have you blame me? I blame myself."
S: "But it's not your fucking fault! YOU DIDN"T KNOW! I did and I didn't do anything."
M: "You COULDN'T do anything! You were a child Michael. You weren't big enough, strong enough. What did you expect?"
S: "I should have done something... I... I could have."
M: "You couldn't have. Don't you see? There was nothing you could do at the time."
S: "There had to be!"
M: "Yeah? Name ONE thing you could've done at your age."
S: "I... I... SOMETHING! I practically watched her die!"
M: "I'm sorry. I really am."
S: "Stop apologizing! You didn't do anything! Why are you here anyway? I came out here to be alone." (Mike was going to say something but changed his mind. He turned around and started to walk away) "POPS! (he turned around) I'm not trying to chase you off I just really need the time alone."
M: "I understand. Sometimes we all need time alone."
Sonny nodded and walked in the opposite direction to sort his thoughts. Later that night he crept in the room trying not to disturb Brenda. He slipped off his shirt and pants leaving on his boxers and slipped into the bed. Brenda waited until he settled down before turning to him.
B: (whispering) "You okay."
S: "I thought you were sleep. Yeah I'm better sweetheart. Thanks for asking."
B: "I couldn't sleep without you by my side."
S: "Oh c'mere baby." (He pulled her into his arms placing a kiss on his temple) "I'm sorry I scared you."
B: "It's okay. Don't even worry about it anymore."
S: "I won't. Thank you for being so good to me baby. What did I do to deserve you?"
B: "You loved me."
S: "I LOVE you. I think I always will. There's something here between us and I think its going to last forever."
B: "How are you so sure?"
S: "A feeling in here." He points to his heart.
B: (placed a hand on his chest and felt his heartbeat) "It's like it's beating just for me."
S: "It is, I don't know if I could live without you."
B: "You won't have to. I'm not going anywhere unless you don't want me."
S: "How can you even ask?"
B: "I didn't."
S: (He caressed her face) "I love you."
B: "I love you more."
S: "Hold me tonight?"
B: "Always."
S: (took her arms wrapping them around his chest) "No I love you more..." Then he drifted off to sleep.
Brenda smiled and held him as she thought of how much she loved him.