“Gee thanks for ditching me on your parent’s boat.” Teri broke in at the end of her patience. She was sick to death of all the attention Mindy received from Colby. Who was still kneeling beside Mindy. He helped her get her life jacket off, and then lay back down on the blanket.
“That will teach you to behave in the future. You don’t go around shoving people on a moving boat, it’s dangerous.” Colby replied rising to his feet with a frown. He hadn’t invited her a long, because he didn’t want her around. She’d obviously gotten an invitation out of his mother. He’d wanted to spend some time with Mindy. He could feel her drifting away from him. They’d barely spoken since she left California, except through emails. She was avoiding phone conversations with him. He had come up here to find a way to bridge the gap, before he lost her completely.
“Oh please, she’s playing you. Everybody knows about her pathetic little crush on you. She just doing this stuff to get your attention, can’t you see that?” She was too angry to guard her words where Mindy was concerned.
Mindy who was still lying on the blanket heard every word. That’s it, she thought! She got to her feet, ignoring the wave of nausea that hit her she started to walk down the beach.
“See I told you she was faking.” Teri shot after her.

“That’s enough.” Colby warned Teri, watching Mindy make her way down the beach.
“Come eat you two.” Laura called from the table.
Teri turned to head over to the table. “Aren’t you coming?” She turned to ask. But Colby was already headed down the beach after Mindy. That little bitch! She has to go she thought angrily. She continued to the table a scowl on her face.
“Where’s Colby?” Laura asked Teri as she took a seat at the picnic table.
“Chasing after Mindy?” Teri answered with irritation.
“I thought she was sick.” Laura stated glancing to where Mindy had been lying on the beach, but she was gone.
“Not to sick to run away.” Teri pointed out as she put some salad on her plate.
“You think she’s faking.” Laura asked her.
“She’s not faking.” Doug assured his mother. “I examined her.”
“She’s a good actress.” Teri replied taking a bite of food. “I think she’s doing it for attention.”
“She is not.” Mandy said taking up her friend’s defense.
“You’re just jealous.” Ashley put in, between bites of food.
“I beg your pardon.” Teri said glaring at the girl. “I’m not jealous of some pathetic little girl who goes around latching herself onto guys that feel sorry for her.”
“He doesn’t feel sorry for her.” Mandy said getting angry.

“Relax Mandy, she’s just mad, because Colby cares more about Mindy then he does her.” Ashley pointed out treading on dangerous ground.
“That’s not true.” Teri argued getting really angry.
“Then why is he off chasing her?” Ashley asked her with a smile.
Teri fell silent, she didn’t have an answer too that. And she was afraid Ashley might be right. It was time she had a serious talk with Colby. She was going to put her foot down. If he wanted her he would have to end his friendship with Mindy.
“Of course it’s not true.” Laura assured Teri with a smile. “Colby loves you, he’s just concerned about his friend. You girls mind your manners.”
“I think I’ll take them some food.” Doug said getting up. He for one didn’t believe for a minute that Colby cared much at all for Teri. His brother was clearly in love with a sixteen, year old girl. And he was treading on dangerous ground. It wasn’t a simple friendship anymore. Something had changed; Doug had caught his brother watching Mindy with desire in his eyes. Until today Colby had always seemed to regard Mindy in the manner of a friend. But today he’d been looking at her like a woman he wanted a great deal. Doug resolved to talk with his brother.
“I’ll go with you.” Mandy said with disgust. She thought her Mom was nuts. Colby couldn’t possibly love that bitch! She got up from the table. She and Doug gathered some food on a couple plates, and then grabbed a couple sodas from the ice chest. They headed down the beach to look for Colby and Mindy.

“Ashley, I think it would be best if Mindy didn’t attend the firework show with us tonight.” Laura told her daughter.
“Why?” Ashley asked seeing the look of triumph in Teri’s eyes.
“I think it’s best that she spend time with her own family.” Laura replied firmly.
“Don’t look so pleased.” Ashley said to Teri getting up. “I’ve got fifty bucks that says if Mindy doesn’t come with us Colby won’t come either.”
“That’s enough.” Laura snapped at her daughter.

Colby found Mindy down the beach kneeling by a tree trunk. Her head was resting on the smooth surface of the tree. Her eyes were closed in misery. He straddled the log next to where her head was resting. He reached down to stroke her head gently.
“I’m not faking it. I lost my breakfast in that bush over there if you want to go see.” She told him, relaxing to the feel of his hand stroking her throbbing head.
“I never thought you were. Don’t listen to her.” He commented continuing to stroke her head. They sat there in silence as he stroked her head gently. She was starting to feel better she thought. She didn’t feel as queasy and the pain was beginning to subside in her head. She opened her eyes slowly. Bad idea, as she was staring right at Colby’s crotch. Still having her eyes open didn’t hurt. She was going to have to move, she couldn’t lie there staring at his crotch. Moving slowly she lifted her head off the log. She was relieved that the movement didn’t make her feel any worse. “Thanks.” She told Colby sitting back to look at him.

“How do you feel?” He asked gently taking her face in his hands.
“Better.” Mindy replied staring up at him memorized by his gentle gaze.
“You should try drinking some water, you’re probably dehydrated from being in the sun.” He told her dropping his hands. He reached down to pick up the bottle of water he had grabbed for her.
Mindy took the bottle and took several sips of water. She leaned her back against the tree stump.
“I’m never getting on another boat driven by Jeff.” She told him, gazing out at the lake.
“He was being a jerk.” He replied watching her.
“I don’t know how you managed to stay up on your skis behind a boat driven by that mad man.” She said turning to look at him. She found him staring at her with a strange look. It made her feel warm all over.
“I’m used to his driving.” He commented absently. Her hair was damp and tangled, and she was still pale from being sick. And he still wanted her! With a groan he got up from the tree trunk. “Think I’ll take a swim.” He said heading down to the water. She watched him wade into the water and then dive in. She felt strange, he was aroused, she’d seen the swelling his swim trunks did nothing to conceal. I look terrible she thought. He must have been thinking about Teri. Probably picturing doing it with her. Colby was standing in the water up to his waist, his back to her. The thought of him with Teri hurt. She had the sudden urge to dunk him. Getting

up she walked quietly toward him, careful to make no noise. When she reached the waters edge she ran into the water toward him. He heard her splashing into the water but he was distracted with his own thoughts in turmoil. So he was taken by complete surprise when she suddenly leaped on him from behind. The impact threw him off balance and they fell into the water with a crash, both of them going under. He came up with a gasp. She emerged next to him grinning. “I got you.” She told him smugly, swimming to where she could touch bottom.
“Thanks a lot.” He told her, he was a lot taller then her and could touch bottom where he was at. “You’re going to pay for that.” He warned starting toward her. She let out a squeal and headed in intending to get back to the safety of the beach. He caught her before she could get completely out of the water. He grasped her about the waist with an arm hauling her back into the water. She laughed struggling to get free of his grip. His other arm went under her legs picking her up intending to throw her. She wrapped her arms around his neck tightly. “Now you can’t dunk me.” She told him hanging on with a smile.
“Really” he said smiling. He walked in to his waist and then threw them both into the water with a leap. She let out a shriek as she hit the water. She came up sputtering. “That wasn’t fair.” She declared splashing him with water. He grabbed her pulling her toward him. “You want to get dunked again.” He asked, he could touch the bottom she couldn’t giving him the advantage.

She looped her arms around his neck, holding onto him in the deeper water. “Now you can’t do anything to me.” She teased him.
“I wouldn’t say that.” He said, their bodies were touching. Her face was close to his. He pulled her closer wrapping an arm about her. His other hand going to the back of her head, he brought her lips to his. She shivered opening her mouth as the kiss deepened. His tongue slipped into her mouth. Following some inner instinct she wrapped her legs about his waist. Bringing there groins into contact. Sending a shock through both of them. The kiss grew even more demanding as he moved his hand to cup her breast through her suit. He could feel the hardened peak against his hand. Reaching behind her he undid the buckle holding the top on. He moved his hand over her bare breast with a groan. Mindy whimpered as desire coursed through her body. He rubbed a finger over her nipple, causing her to gasp into the kiss. To his surprise he could feel himself hardening in the cold water. She felt it as well, and moved so that she rubbed against his swollen length. Colby groaned as they continued kissing. His hands moved down to grasp her hips, holding her as he thrust against her in an imitation of intercourse. She shuddered, breaking the kiss with a gasp. She stared at him a dazed expression in her eyes. He leaned forward intending to draw her back into a kiss. She stiffened staring over his shoulder. And then she was shoving herself back. “Let me go.” She told him.
“What’s wrong?” He asked confused. Had he scared her?

“Your brother’s coming.” She answered swimming to wear she could touch the bottom. She quickly fastened her top in place. He turned around to look. She was right, his brother and his sister were coming down the beach. They weren’t close enough to see anything he thought with relief. What had he been thinking? He shouldn’t have been messing around with Mindy, when his family was so close by. Thank God, she had noticed them. He had been too caught up in her to pay any attention. Mindy dove under the water, attempting to cool herself off. Coming up she leaned back so her hair would be out of her face.
“How’s the water?” Mandy called from the beach.
“Cold.” Mindy answered turning to swim back to shore. Colby was already getting out.

“I don’t know. Here comes Colby, I don’t see Teri, he must have ditched her.” Ashley replied gazing down the dock. Mindy shot a quick look in that direction. Yup, it was Colby alright, and he was alone. She didn’t know whether to be relieved or not. “I’m gonna go get something to drink from the store.” She said heading toward the store. If I’m lucky they’ll forget all about me. Entering the store she wandered to the back where the coolers were kept. She stood there staring at the sodas.

“So are you avoiding me?” Cobly questioned, causing her to jump from the start he’d given her. Geeze! What was wrong with her radar she usually knew when he was close. “No, I was thirsty.” She stammered grabbing something from the cooler. She didn’t even look at what she’d grabbed just brushed by Colby to pay for it. She set it on the counter.

“I can’t sell that to you.” Gary said crossing his arms.

“What?” “Why not?” She asked annoyed.

“It has alcohol, and I know your not twenty-one.” He pointed out.

“What? It does not! It’s a soda!” She argued picking it up to look at the label. She’d grabbed a beer. Crap! She could feel herself getting red. How embarrassing she thought. “Well if you separated the alcohol, and soda this wouldn’t have happened.” She muttered taking the beer back to the cooler.

“It is.” Gary called after her. “Hey Colby, how’s school going?”

“Good.” Colby answered watching as Mindy returned with a coke.
Setting the coke down, she went to grab a candy bar. She picked out a king size kit kat. Returning to the counter she waited for Gary to add it up. She paid before picking up her items. “Thanks Gary, see ya later.”

She rejoined Ashley and Mandy on the dock. The rest of the family had arrived, and were in a debate over who was riding where. Ignoring them Mindy climbed a board the large cabin cruiser. She walked around the cabin to the bow. Taking her towel from her bag she spread it out on the bow and took a seat. She was soon, joined, by Ashley, and Mandy. They stretched out enjoying the sun. Colby stood on the dock watching Mindy. “Just get on the damn boat!” Robert finally growled to his debating sons. His wife and daughter in-law had stayed at the house. They would go out on the boat for lunch. Everybody finally climbed onto the boat. Robert headed to the helm to start the engine. Colby and Doug untied the boat before climbing a board. Teri had arrived just in time to climb a board. She was pissed to see Mindy laying out on the bow with Colby's sisters. She took a seat in one of the chairs on the back deck. She expected Colby to sit down with her, but to her disappointment he didn’t. Colby removed his shirt revealing his broad sun tanned torsel. Black hair covered his chest lightly. Grabbing a towel from the cabin, he headed to the bow. “Okay make room.” He told the girls.

“Can’t you go lay somewhere else.” Ashley muttered moving over. Colby settled into the place between her and Mindy. Mandy was stretched out on the other side of Mindy. They were all leaning up against the windshield. Feeling warm in the sun, Mindy had taken her windbreaker off and was sitting in her shorts and bikini top. The brush of Colby’s arm against the side of her arm sent a shiver coursing through her. She closed her eyes again enjoying the warmth of the sun and the light spray of water as the boat cut through the water. Teri glared at them through the windows of the cabin. She could see them all laying out on the bow. But there was no room for her out there. Thanks to Mindy, why the hell was she always around? It was getting to the point that the only time she had Colby to herself was in bed. Well she thought she’d get him alone later and remind him of what a real woman could do for him. Robert drove the boat out to a cove he liked to fish in. He stopped the boat, and he and Doug got out the fishing rods. “Jeff you take the wheel.” He instructed his son. As the boat pulled forward slowly he and Doug let out the line on their rods. The boat slowly trolled along for a couple hours. Stopping when fish were caught. The girls and Colby had moved to lie down on the bow. Mindy drifted asleep on her stomach next to Colby. It turned out to be a long relaxing morning. When it was time to head in for lunch, Mindy got up to use the bathroom. Making her way carefully around the cabin she headed into the cabin and down a set of stairs that led into the bow, which housed a bed and bathroom. Seeing her chance Teri intended to go out and cuddle with Colby on the bow. She made her way around the
cabin carefully, but arriving on the bow she found Colby gone. He must have went around the other side. Taking a towel she settled into Mindy’s spot next to where Colby had been laying. Gazing out the window from the cabin Mindy watched Teri take her spot. Oh well they were headed in anyway. She went out to sit on the deck. She was soon joined by Colby. She had relaxed with him on the bow and so wasn’t disturbed by his sitting next to her on deck. This whole thing was silly after all. She’d just pretend nothing had happened. She got up to get a coke. As she was walking back to her seat the cruiser hit a wave causing the boat to jerk. She lost her balance and landed in Colby’s lap with a thud. Colby had reached out to grab her when she started to fall. She sat there in his lap for a moment. They stared at each other both remembering the last time she’d been in his lap.
“Well isn’t this cozy.” Teri said coming onto the deck to find Mindy sitting in Colby’s lap. It was like a bucket of ice water tossed on them. Mindy scrambled off his lap saying “I fell.”

“Sure you did.” Teri said with sarcasm in her voice.

“What’s that suppose to mean?” Mindy asked turning to Teri her defenses up. “I didn’t fall on purpose if that’s what you’re implying.” She said when Teri just glared at her.

“How convient for you?” Teri answered shoving Mindy aside as she went to take the seat Mindy had been sitting in. The push caused Mindy to fall to the deck with a hard thud.

“Are you alright?” Colby said coming to his feet. He went to help her up from the floor.

“I’m fine.” Mindy muttered glaring at Teri as she took Colby’s hand, letting him pull her to her feet. She rubbed her sore backside. “That hurt.” She shot at Teri.

“Oh please, she’s playing it I didn’t shove her that hard. She just wants the attention.” Teri defended herself to Colby seeing the look he gave her over Mindy’s head.

“I am not. She shoved me.” Mindy defended herself, staring up at him.

“I saw what happened.” He answered turning to Teri. “That was uncalled for you don’t shove people around on a moving boat. That’s how people get hurt.” He told Teri, guiding Mindy to a chair.

“What’s going on?” Jeff asked coming out of the cabin. He had been playing cards with Doug at the table inside the cabin.

“Nothing.” They all muttered, the boat was slowing to enter the bay. They all sat quietly as the boat headed into the dock. Colby was frowning at Teri, who had an innocent expression pasted on her face. Mindy was staring out at the water, she wanted to hit Teri right in her stuck up nose. She shouldn’t have come out on the boat. She hadn’t meant to fall onto Colby’s lap. For a moment she’d thought he would kiss her again. What a stupid idea, he had his girlfriend there. Colby got up preparing to jump onto the dock to tie the boat up. His mother and sister in-law were waiting on the dock with several coolers of food. They would enjoy a picnic lunch at their favorite cove. Mindy stood preparing to get off the boat once it docked. She went to the bow to gather her things. By the time she got back the boat had been tied down. Colby was standing on the dock and helped her off the boat. He lifted her by the waist and turned to set her down on the dock. Something, that was completely unnecessary to her way of thinking. All she would have had to do is step onto the dock. The fact that his hands lingered at her waist for a moment didn’t help. She turned to walk down the dock toward the Morgan’s ski boat. They would be taking the ski boat out this time. She was followed, by Ashley and Amber. Colby helped his mother onto the boat, before packing the coolers aboard the cabin cruiser. Doug and Jeff had hopped off the boat and were headed to the ski boat. Before Teri could make her way off the boat Colby untied the cabin cruiser. He pushed the big boat away from the dock. He then turned to walk toward the ski boat. Seeing what he had done Teri was pissed. Colby untied the ski boat, and climbed aboard sitting down across from Mindy, who was sitting on the rear bench seat with Ashley, and Mandy. Thank god Mindy thought with a smile, Teri wasn’t going with them. Doug backed the boat out, ignoring Jeff’s pleas to drive. Once they cleared the outer post of the bay Doug threw the throttle forward and the boat tore acrossed the lake. They rode for a while until Doug brought the boat to a stop. “Who wants to ski first?” He asked everyone.

“I’ll go, if Jeff isn’t driving.” Mindy said getting up. Jeff and Colby were busy digging the skis and life vest out.
“What the hell is that suppose to mean.” Jeff demanded of her.

“It means that you tried to kill me the last time you drove the boat.” Mindy answered pulling on a wet suit over her bikini. The wet suit had short sleeves, reached to just above her knees. It was red and black. She zipped the suit up and pulled on the life jacket Colby handed her.

“Water’s cold.” Ashley said putting her hand over the side of the boat into the water. Climbing up onto the back of the boat Mindy didn’t bother with the ladder, taking a deep breath she dove off the boat into the cold water. She came up with a gasp. Colby tossed the skis in to her, she pulled them on one at a time. Then she reached up to catch the ski rope, taking hold of it. Doug put the boat in gear and moved forward slowly taking up the slack. When the rope was tight the boat sped up pulling her up out of the water. She smiled she loved being out on the water. She knew from experience she would need to pay attention, or she’d get dunked. Doug drove the boat in circles, and then drove the boat over the waves he caused, causing her have to jump the waves. He did this several times before he was able throw her
balance enough to cause her to crash. She let go of the rope and landed hard into the water. She didn’t much like crashing. She waited for the boat to come back for her.
The red warning flag raised by Mandy. “Thanks Doug that was lots of fun.” Mindy shot at Doug, she pushed the skiis toward the boat.

“Did you like that.” Doug teased with a smile.

“Yeah I love crashing into the water at 50 miles an hour.” She said swimming to the back of the boat so she could climb the ladder. Colby reached out to help her up into the boat. Her teeth were chattering from the cold water. She undid her life vest, taking it and the wet suit off. Colby wrapped a towel around her. Ashley was pulling another wet suit and life vest on. Like Mindy she ignored the ladder and jumped into the lake. She reached for the skis and pulled them on. Jeff tossed her the rope, which she caught. They all sat down as Doug moved the boat forward taking up the slack. Mindy sat down wrapping the towel around her tighter. This time she sat in the bucket seat facing the back of the boat so she could watch Ashley ski. Doug, wasn’t able to get Ashley to crash, she was too good. When the girls had all gone, Colby went. At this point Doug let Jeff take the wheel. Mindy who had been helping Doug with the ski rope saw Jeff sitting behind the wheel and said “Can I get off the boat, I’m too young to die.”

“Very funny, sit down.” He ordered with a laugh.

“I can’t believe your going to let him drive.” Ashley commented to Doug. “It’s been nice having you for a big brother.” She told Colby leaning over the side of the boat.
“What the hell are you doing?” Jeff asked Mindy who was busy pulling a life vest on.

“If you’re driving I’m wearing a life vest. The last time you drove you nearly flipped the boat over.” Mindy answered buckling a life jacket on.

“Give me a break, we weren’t even close to tipping over.” Jeff claimed loudly. “Are you ready yet?” He yelled back to Colby.

“Yes.” Colby answered.

“Sit down.” Jeff ordered everyone moving the boat forward. As soon as the slack was out of the rope he threw the throttle forward. And the boat leapt forward. Jeff, Mindy decided was a madman. How Colby was able to stay up was amazing. He whipped the boat around in tight circles. The boat going clear up on its side. At which point she closed her eyes and prayed. She actually hoped Colby would fall so they could stop the boat. At which point she was getting off, even if she had to swim back to shore. They finally reached the beach where they would be eating lunch. Jeff took Colby in and he let go of the rope riding the skis into the beach. She relaxed thinking they would be stopping. No such luck! Jeff had decided to take them on a thrill ride that included jumping the boat over waves he’d created. When they finally slowed down to beach the boat, Mindy was sick. Her face drained of color. She didn’t even wait for the boat to beach. She jumped out of the boat into the lake before the boat had even stopped. She just floated in her life jacket too sick to care about the cold water. As soon as the boat was beached, Ashley and Mandy climbed out kissing the ground. Behind them the big cabin cruiser was entering the cove. To big to come up on the beach, it would be anchored in the cove. Colby pushed the ski boat off the beach so Jeff could go get their parents off the cabin cruiser. Mindy was still floating out in the lake. “I think Jeff’s little joy ride killed her.” Mandy came up to stand by her big brother looking out at Mindy.

“I’ll go get her.” Colby told Mandy before swimming out too Mindy. Who was floating on her back with her eyes closed. “Are you alright?” Colby asked swimming up next to her.

“No, your brother killed me.” Mindy answered to sick to even open her eyes.

“Come on, let’s get you to shore before you freeze to death.” He told her grasping her life jacket to pull her back to shore. Pulling her into the shallow water, he stood. “Can you stand?” He asked when she continued to lie unmoving.

“I don’t think so, I’m dizzy.” She told him weakly. He reached down and scooped her up into his arms, carrying her onto the beach. Doug was driving the ski boat back to shore with his parents, Jeff, Monica, and Teri. As soon as the boat beached, Doug jumped out.
“What’s wrong with her?” Doug asked his brother who was carrying Mindy.

“She says she’s dizzy. Get a blanket so I can lay her down.” He told Doug with a frown. “I’m gonna pound Jeff.” He muttered as his brother went to fetch a blanket.

“Won’t do any good.” Mindy mumbled resting her head on his shroulder.

“Here, lay her down.” Doug said spreading a blanket on the ground.

“What’s wrong with her now?” Teri asked in annoyance. She wasn’t happy to find her boyfriend carrying Mindy around.

“She’s sick, thanks to Jeff.” Doug answered while Colby kneeled down to set Mindy on the blanket.

“What did I do?” Jeff asked innocently coming to join them.

“What happened?” Laura asked coming over to look at Mindy.

“Just motion sickness, brought on by Jeff’s driving.” Doug told her taking Mindy’s pulse.

“Well you’re a doctor; give her some pills or something.” Jeff told his brother.

“I told you not to let him drive the boat.” Robert said coming to stand with them.

“Well he’s a damn nag.” Doug complained getting up. “I got sick of listening to him bitch about it. I’ve got some motion sickness pills on the boat, I’ll go get them.”

“She has a weak stomach, my driving isn’t that bad.” Jeff defended himself to his parents, which set off hysterical laughter from his sisters. “Shut up.” Jeff yelled at them.

“Jeffrey Morgan, you don’t say shut up.” Laura reprimanded her son with a shake of her head.

“Sorry Mom.” Jeff said contritely.

“Let’s go get the food out; I’m sure everyone is hungry.” Laura told her husband who followed her as she walked to where the girls were setting up a portable picnic table.Doug returned from the boat with the medicine and a bottle of water.

“Here take these, they’ll help.” Doug told Mindy, kneeling beside her, across from where Colby was kneeling. They helped Mindy too a sitting position. She took the pills and swallowed them with some water. “Just relax for a little while, the pills should help.” Doug instructed rising to his feet.

“Let’s drive to Sandpoint after dinner and see a movie.” Ashley suggested to them.
“Why so you and Mike can spend the entire movie making out like last time.” Mandy complained. She didn’t have a boyfriend yet, she was too shy around boys. They made her nervous.

“How about it Mindy, do you want to go?” Ashley said ignoring her sister’s remarks.

“Sure.” Mindy said remembering the kisses she’d shared with Colby.

“Fine I’ll go.” Mandy muttered not wanting to be left out.

“I’ll go get something to eat and change.” Mindy told them walking away.

“Come on Mandy, let’s go talk Dad into letting us take the car.” Ashley said as they headed to the cabin their Grampa owned. If you could call it a cabin, it was really a two story white frame house. Trimmed with green shutters. It contained four bedrooms, Three upstairs and one on the first floor. There was also a large kitchen and living room, with a huge stone fireplace. The furniture was old but in good condition. The furniture had come from their grandparent’s house when her Grandma had bought new stuff. There was a large green sofa and matching love seat. Two oak end tables located on both ends of the sofa. An oak coffee table covered with magazines and several interior design books. There was an overstuffed cream colored chair and ottoman. A large oak Entertainment center took up most of one wall. Their was a 37 inch tv, vcr,dvd, stereo, and surround sound system. All of which, had been chosen by their grandsons. The kitchen was done in a sky blue color, with white tile counters, The cupboards were also white, a large ceramic pig decorated one counter, a gift from their, granddaughters’. The kitchen had all the modern connivances. A fridge, and freezer, microwave, coffee maker, stove. There was a sliding door leading out to a huge deck with a view of the lake below. This was where the family spent most of their time in the evenings. There was a large barbecue pit built into the deck. A long wood picnic, table. A round umbrella table with chairs decorated with green and white stripes. Coming into the lake house Ashley and Mandy found their father sitting in the cream colored chair, watching tv. “Dad, we need your car keys.” Ashley told him coming to stand by his chair with Mandy .

“Why?” Robert Morgan asked sparing them a glance, but his attention still on the tv. Robert was a big man, standing at 6”4 with broad shoulders. He had dark hair, and even darker eyes. There was just a touch of gray in his hair. His skin was tanned from hours spent in the sun on his boat. He was lean carrying no extra wait on his frame. An avid sportsman, he hunted and fished. He also golfed eighteen holes once a week when the weather allowed. He was a successful attorney, with his own law firm. He’d been disappointed that only one of his sons had chosen to follow in his footsteps. Doug had chosen to be a family doctor, which had made his wife happy. So he guessed that was alright, but Colby’s decision to become a medical examiner, now that was just a waste in his opinion. Sure his son would still be considered a doctor. But why in the hell would anyone choose to spend their days cutting up bodies. Something wasn’t right with that boy. He’d always been a little odd. There was the way he seemed to know things before they happened, that was unnerving. He had tried to reason with the boy, but it hadn’t done any good.

“We want to drive in to Sandpoint, and see a movie after dinner.” Ashley asked moving to block his view of the TV.

“Move, I can’t see. Did you ask your mother?” He asked impatiently trying to see around his daughter.

“Yes.” Ashley lied smoothly still blocking his view of the tv.

“Fine, take the car.” Robert muttered digging his car keys out of his pocket. “You be back by eleven.” He ordered before giving her the keys.

“Okay Daddy.” Ashley replied sweetly. “Will need some money?” She said taking the keys from him.

“Of course, I should have known.” Robert muttered reaching for his wallet. He handed her a hundred dollar bill. “Fill the car up with gas, and I want change.”

“Sure Daddy.” Ashley said taking the money.

“Ashley, Mandy, come in here.” Their mother called from the kitchen. The girls headed to the kitchen with a groan. They found her setting food out for dinner. Laura Morgan was a tall slender woman, with shoulder length blonde hair that she kept dyed. She had deep blue eyes. Her face showed only a few small wrinkles which she kept concealed with make up. Laura was meticulous about her appearance. Even after making dinner there wasn’t a spot on her. Not for the first time the girls wondered how she managed to cook without messing up her appearance in the slightest way. They had never seen their mom with even a hair out of place. Even though they were at the lake, Laura was dressed in nice gray slacks and a white silk top. She’d never in her life worn a pair of jeans or sweats. She also wore a pearl necklace and earrings, and a cold watch that’s face was circled in diamonds. She ate healthy and exercised daily to keep her trim figure. She kept a clean and orderly household. Colby had inherited her need for order. “You girls can go set the tables for dinner.” Laura instructed them indicating the plates and silverware she had set out. The girls dutifully picked up the plates and headed out to the deck to set the table. They were careful to set the plates and silverware up properly. They had been schooled from an early age in proper etiquette. When they were done they headed off to change and clean up before dinner.

After dinner Ashley and Mandy hopped into the car. They stopped to pick Mindy up at the cabin Mindy’s Dad had rented. Mindy had changed into tight black jeans and a red top. She wore back high heeled boots and carried a black handbag. She had applied make up but wore her hair loose about her shroulders. Ashley was also dressed in a pair of blue designer jeans, with a black top that bared her midrift. Her long Black hair was pulled back at the sides, but fell loose down her back. She wore a pair of sneakers. Mandy was dressed in blue designer jeans as well. She had on a blue top that she tucked into her jeans, and a pair of black leather low heeled shoes. They headed to Sandpoint, where Ashley met up with her boyfriend Mike. They walked around the mall, looking at clothes. They went to see an action movie with

Tom Conners in it, which was weird for Mindy since she had been on the set of the movie when Tom was shooting it. Ashely spent the whole movie making out with Mike. Mandy and Mindy tried to ignore them. They headed back to the lake after the movie, since the girls had to be back by eleven or face their Dad’s temper. Mindy was staying on her boat and didn’t have a curfew. Which Ashley and Mandy thought was so unfair. Mindy got back to her boat a little after 11pm that night. She laid in the bed reading another romance novel, before turning the lights off finally at midnight. She listened to the water gently lapping against the bow of her boat. She couldn’t sleep, Ashley had invited her to go boating with them the next day. Mindy had planned to avoid, Colby as much as possible. Being on a boat with him would make that impossible. She had tried to get out of going, which had set off Ashley’s radar. She had wanted to know why Mindy wouldn’t want to go with them. After all Colby was going to be going. And she and Colby were good friends, weren’t they? Realizing she couldn’t admit she wanted to avoid their brother Mindy had been trapped. So she had agreed to go out with them in the morning. It was going to be a long day! Mindy jerked awake to the sound of someone jumping onto her boat.

“Mindy are you awake.” Mandy said tapping on the door. Mindy groaned looking at her watch, it wasn’t even seven yet. Didn’t they ever sleep? “ I’m getting up.” She called sitting up. She could see by the light coming through the hatch on the bow. Pulling out clean jeans and a sweat shirt, she quickly got dressed. She brushed her hair and pulled it back into a ponytail. Opening the door to the bow, she saw that Mandy and Ashley were sitting in chairs on her boat. “Morning.” She greeted grabbing a pair of sneakers off the floor. She found a pair of clean socks in her bag.

“Don’t you guys ever sleep in.” Mindy mumbled climbing the stairs and coming out onto the deck. She sat down to pull her shoes on.

“This isn’t early.” Ashley told her. “Dad and Grandpa went out on the boat at five, now that’s early!”

“Come on, were going to miss breakfast.” Mandy complained hopping out of the boat onto the dock.

“When exactly did I sign on for breakfast?” Mindy grumbled standing up.

“Colby’s right you’re a grump first thing in the morning.” Ashley informed her hopping onto the dock.
“What? When did he say that?” Mindy asked hopping out of the boat to follow them. Ignoring her they hurried along the dock. They had to walk through the parking lot and then turn to go up a steep road to where the lake house, sat on a ridge. They found everyone gathering on the deck for breakfast. Everyone included Colby’s grandparents, George and Elizabeth Morgan.,his Uncles James, and John Morgan, their wives, Emily and Susan, and their perspective children. James and Emily had three children, Matt who was studying law at Stanford in California, Caroline, who was a student at University of Washington. A blow, to her parents, that were former WSU Alumni. She was accompanied by her financee’, Jason,

another lawyer. Next came Abigail, or Abby for short. She was thirteen and in junior high. John and Susan had two girls, Christina ten, and Melissa eight. John had married in his early forties, and was also a lawyer. It was hard to keep track of Colby’s large, and very catholic family. The women being more devout then their husbands, who were pretty laid back about religion for the most part. Although, you
didn’t mention, the word abortion, without starting a huge debate with the family. Mindy kept her head down among the older adults. She grabbed a plate to serve herself from the buffet that had been set up on the deck. Everyone knew her and greeted her warmly. “Well it’s not everyday that we get a celebrity.” Colby’s Dad said in greeting. He liked Mindy, because she loved to debate him. He was Republican, she was for the democrats. “Where’s Colby?” His Dad asked of everyone.
“Colby and Matt aren’t here yet.” His wife answered.
“Well they’d better get here soon, the boat leaves at eight with or without them.” He pointed out looking at his watch.
Mindy took a seat on a chair, and started eating. She’d only taken a couple bites when she heard “Hi Teri, Colby’s not here yet.” Colby’s mom greeted warmly. “He’ll be so excited to see you.” Mindy nearly choked. Well there goes my appetite. She managed to force the rest of her food down. It would have been rude to throw the food out. Teri wasn’t happy to see her either, given the glare she had shot her way. When she was done she took her plate to the kitchen, where Teri was busy kissing Colby’s Mom’s, and Grandma’s asses. She set the plate down next to the sink. And headed back outside intending to go back down to the dock to wait. “Don’t you have a family of your own?” Teri asked grabbing her arm.

“Ashley and Mandy invited me.” Mindy answered calmly, feeling anything but calm. And then the little hairs were going up on her neck. Oh no, she thought, he’s here.

“What’s going on?” Came the deep familiar voice that sent an ache of awareness through her.

“Nothing, I didn’t know you were here.” Teri said releasing her arm.

“Colby!” Mandy said jumping on her brother, who was nearly knocked to the floor. Mindy smiled at Mandy’s enthusiasm. “I missed you.” Mandy told him.

“I can see that. Can you let go? I can’t breath.” Colby said smiling down at her.

“Hey Mindy.” He said greeting her as he pushed his little sister to the side.

“Hi.” Mindy replied surprised that she could even speak her throat was so dry.

“Come on you two; let’s go down to the dock for a while.” Ashley said, grabbing Mindy, and Mandy’s arms.

“Sure.” Mindy answered relieved to have an excuse to get away from Colby. The three girls headed down to the dock. Mindy climbed a board her boat to change into her bikini. She then pulled a pair of black jean shorts over her bikini bottoms. She grabbed a white windbreaker and zipped it up over her bikini top. She then changed into a pair of water socks. She put her mirrored sun glasses on, and grabbed her beach bag. That contained a towel and sunscreen, as well as a book to read. She then locked the cabin and climbed from her boat. She caught up with Ashley and Mandy on the dock by their Dad’s cabin cruiser.
“Where is everybody?” Mandy complained.

The next day Colby drove Mindy to the airport. Both were relieved she was going. Even though they knew they would miss each other. For now, they both felt distance was the best remedy for their current problems. Reaching the boarding gate she turned to say goodbye.
“Well I guess this is it.” She said looking up at him. She expected a friendly hug like always. She ended up getting way more. Colby leaned over and kissed her. And it wasn't a simple brushing of lips. It was a lengthy meeting of mouths and tongues. She completely forgot about the fact that other people were around them. As she looped her arms around his necks. The kiss seemed to last forever, and then he was pulling back leaving her dazed.

“I’ll see you Fourth of July weekend.” He said getting a hold of himself. He stared at her for a moment, before turning to leave. Mindy watched him disappear into the crowd. She just stood there in a daze; finally she was able to move. She turned and boarded the plane. She spent the entire flight dreamily reliving that last kiss. Her flight landed in Spokane, and her Grandma was there to meet her. She absently answered her grandma’s questions, all the while wondering about Colby.

Chapter Three

Time seemed to fly once Mindy arrived home. She was kept busy during the day helping her Dad get ready for harvest. Her days were spent washing and servicing trucks. Her evenings were spent working on her latest manuscript. Her experiences with Colby had taken her writing to a whole new level. She worked late into the night, writing about a teenage girl who finds love. Still she was unable to move beyond doing an adolescent love story. She was still a virgin, and there was still much she had yet to experience. Which was frustrating, for her. She had several ideas for mature scripts. But the love scenes were devoid of intensity. She knew the mechanics of things. But she couldn't’ capture the feelings involved, which left her scripts empty and shallow. She needed more experience; she needed to lose her virginity, which presented a huge problem for her. She needed to find someone willing to do it. But she didn’t have a boyfriend. She had discounted Colby early on. Even considering the things that had taken place on her last trip she knew that he

would never be willing to go all the way with her. Left up to him she would be waiting until she was eighteen. And her career couldn’t wait that long. She had earned a name with her Disney films, but she needed to make the transition away from kid’s stuff. She had, several male friends, there was Todd. He was her age, and cute. But she didn’t see Todd like that, which was a problem. And she wasn’t the type to just go out and sleep with someone she hardly knew. If only Colby wasn’t so stubborn about things like this. It wasn’t like she would ever tell anyone. She had told no one about the incidents this past trip. Of course who would have believed her anyway? She didn’t believe it herself and she’d been there. She couldn’t believe that he could actually want her. After all he had a gorgeous girlfriend, even if she was a bitch. Not that what had happened hadn’t been a dream come true for Mindy. But it had stirred up a confusing mix of feelings, along with her hormones. She was horny; she’d never masturbated so much in her life. Her body ached for something she didn’t fully understand. She didn’t have a whole lot of time to dwell on all of this thankfully. She had made another quick trip to California in early June. Colby had graduated receiving two masters degrees. She had flown down to attend the ceremony. She had stayed at Tom’s, since Colby’s house was full of family. She hadn’t gotten to spend anytime alone with him. And Teri had been there throwing a damper on the whole experience. June sped by and before she knew it, she was getting ready to attend the annual Farmer’s Festival with friends and family. The

Farmer’s Festival was a gathering of Lacrosse citizens for a large picnic held in the Town Park. Tables and chairs were set up the day before the event. Family groups and neighbors gathered around tables in different sections of the park. Mindy’s family gathered their neighbors from neighboring farms in their area. It was a big event, with a parade down Main Street. There was a costume contest for the little kids. Every year a different theme was selected. And whomever had the best costume won a cash prize. There were other contests as well. While the old people gathered around tables in the park to visit, the kids ran wild on the park playground. And area teens walked around town with their friends. Mindy was in the parade again this year. She got to ride down Main Street in the back of a convertible driven by her cousin Randy. She was considered a local celebrity because of the films she had written for Disney. It had been a big deal when she was thirteen, and had sold her first script. But now it was more of a drag. She’d spend the day answering questions from people. She looked forward to the following weekend when she would be camping up at lake Ponderay. She would get to see Colby who was coming up for the fourth of July. He was only spending one night though; he would have to return to California on the fifth. She couldn’t wait to get up to the lake. She had used some of the money she had earned selling her scripts to buy a boat. It wasn’t a real big boat, but it had a bed in the bow for sleeping, and a port a potty, so she would be able to sleep on the lake. Her Dad had rented a cabin

at the Hudson Bay resort. Her grandparents had not been happy about her blowing all that money on a boat. They felt she should spend it on getting a car and paying for college. She hadn’t told them she didn’t intend to go to college. She was already doing what she wanted to do with her life, and making good money. Her Dad was an impulse buyer, and so it hadn’t been hard to talk him into letting her buy a boat. Her parents had owned a Bayliner cabin cruiser at one time, but it had been sold in the divorce. A move that had broken Mindy’s heart. She had loved that old boat. So her Dad had gone boat shopping for her, he was thinking a small ski boat. But she had fallen in love with a bigger boat, one that she could sleep on. She’d had a huge debate with her Dad in front of a very uncomfortable salesman. In the end she’d told the salesman she would bring a bank draft for the full amount of the boat if he would just give her a total. “It’s your money.” Her Dad had muttered not really mad. She had always been able to get her own way in things. Besides she knew her Dad looked forward to cruising the lake in the new boat. She had purchased the boat a few days after returning from California. She’d spent a little over forty thousand dollars on it. But she still had plenty of money. She had a little over fifty thousand left in her saving account. And she would be done with her latest script soon. She only hoped Disney would buy it. Her latest script was entitled Through the Gates Of Heaven. It was about a girl and her St. Bernard. But it also had a developing love story. She didn’t intend to sell this one as an animated future; she wanted to move away from those.

“Hey Mindy!” She turned to see who had called out to her. She had been walking along Main Street; which was crowded with people waiting for the parade. She smiled when she saw that it was Todd.
“Hey Todd, what’s up?” she asked him as he caught up.
“Not much, aren’t you in the parade?” Todd asked putting a friendly arm around her.
“Yes, I was just headed in that direction.” She answered looking up at him.
“You better hurry the parade starts anytime now.” Todd said dragging her through the crowd toward the starting point.
“Slow down, I’m not at the head of this parade.” She exclaimed tugging on his arm.
“So did you sell another script while you were in L.A?” Todd asked slowing down a bit.
“I think so, I just have to put some final touches on it.” She answered as they walked . She had always loved Todd, who could be an arrogant jerk, and was really full of himself. But she loved him like a friend. He’d never made her feel the way Colby had. Of course, she had never done anything with Todd either. Maybe she would kiss Todd and see what happened. He was bound to be much more willing to go all the way then Colby ever would be. She just wished she could get Colby out of her thoughts. Randy was leaning on his car waiting for her. “Cutting it close aren’t you?” Randy asked her opening the door for her to get in.
I’ll see ya later.” Todd said before walking off.

“See ya.” She called after him. And so she did her little stint down the street. Waving to the crowd, and throwing candy to the little kids. She knew that the high school kids would be getting together somewhere for a party. She’d find Todd later, he’d know the where abouts of any parties. And as long as she didn’t get caught she’d be fine. The county sheriff’s department rarely came into their little town, unless there was trouble. Not that they were any help during times of trouble, just the opposite. On one occasion the bank alarm had gone off, the sheriff deputies had arrived and used the bank manager as a shield when they entered the bank. Everyone knew that if you got in trouble you called your neighbors for help first, then you called the Sherriff. At any rate she looked forward to going to a party.
It seemed like the week had dragged unbearably, but finally they had arrived at the lake. Her Dad was busy backing her boat down the boat launch ramp. Mindy had a hold of the rope so the boat wouldn’t drift away. She had already made up a bed in the bow of the boat. She had laid out thick sleeping bags that would keep her warm. It got cold on the lake even in the summer. Lake Ponderay didn’t ever get that warm, it was one of the deepest lakes in the world, so deep that the navy tested submarines in the lake. The water was cold, requiring a wet suit if you planned to be in the water for more then a quick dip. The Lake was surrounded by mountains. It was a great lake for fishing, and for seeing mountain goats. Once the boat was in the water they tied it to the dock, while her Dad went to park his truck. When her Dad

returned he drove the boat over too a boat slip, where they tied it up. They, then headed, back to the truck climbing in. Her Dad drove up to the cabin he had rented for the week. It was a small, one bedroom cabin, with a small living room and kitchen. The sofa had a pull out bed, where her younger brother would sleep. Mindy was the oldest of three kids. She had a younger sister Karen, and her brother Caleb. Her sister, was at home with their Mom, she didn’t like camping. Her brother was nine, and loved to fish. Karen was 11 years old, and a city girl through and through. They quickly helped their Dad unload the truck, and then Mindy put all the food away in the kitchen. The small kitchen contained the bare basics, a refrigerator, stove, and several small cupboards for storage. There was also a small kitchen table next to the window. The windows in the living room overlooked the lake. The cabin sat in a row of cabins along a ledge overlooking the lake. The living room contained sparse furniture, an old brown pull out couch, a couple of end tables with lamps. A Small table with chairs, the tiny bathroom contained only a toilet. Showers were located in another building. The cabin had didn’t have a TV or telephone. Although there was a stand for those who brought a tv of their own, like her Dad. “Come on Dad, let’s take the boat out.” Mindy urged impatiently. Her Dad finally got up from the couch he was resting on. Leaving the truck they walked down the hill to the dock, her Dad stopped in the store located on the docks. They all went inside to pick out some snacks. Her Dad visited with Gary, one of the owners. He had known Gary all his life. He’d been coming up to Ponderay since he was a boy. Gary’s Dad owned

and operated the resort. His name was Jim, and he resembled a giant. He was at least 6”6, and nearly as broad in the shoulders as a door, and as strong as an ox. Gary and her dad had spent years trying to throw him off the docks. But every attempt had sent them flying through the air into the lake. Mindy loved to pester Jim, and had been tossed into the lake more then once. Gary was busy filling her Dad in on the best places to fish on the lake. “Did you see my new boat?” Mindy asked proudly while Gary added up their purchases to put on her Dad’s tab.
“Your boat?” He questioned as he added the total onto her Dad’s tab.
“Yup, I just bought it a couple of weeks ago. Used the money I made selling my scripts.” She answered watching Gary bag their purchases.
“So how many movie scripts have you sold now?” Gary asked handing them their purchases.
“Five, and I’m nearly finished with another one.” She said taking one of the bags. “See ya later Gary.” She said hurrying to the door and bumping into Jim who had come in from the docks. “Hi Jim, come see my new boat.” She gabbed his arm with her spare hand, and led him down the dock to her boat. “What do you think?” She said releasing his hand to climb a board.
“Nice, writing movies must pay well.” Jim replied admiring the boat. “ Russell, how’s the farm doing?” He asked turning to her dad as he approached with Gary.
“Not too bad, looks to be a good crop this year if the weather holds.” Her Dad replied, handing the bags to Mindy. Daniel hopped into the boat and took a seat.

“Are the Morgan’s up here yet?” Mindy asked them taking a seat in the boat. The door leading to the small cabin in the bow was closed. She opened it to set the bags inside on the bed.
“Yup, Mandy was down hassling me early this morning. Their out on the lake with their new cabin cruiser.” Gary answered turning to go. “I’ll see you guys later.”
“Come on Dad.” She said impatiently.
“I’m coming.” He reached down to untie the boat. Jim went around to untie the other side. Her Dad climbed into the boat, as Jim pushed it back with his foot, the boated drifted backwards. Her Dad started the engine, putting it in reverse he slowly backed the boat out. Before turning, once clear of the dock he put it in drive and they glided slowly out of the marina. Mindy sat on the back of the passenger seat so she could see over the windshield. She liked the feel of the air through her hair. Once they cleared the outer markers. He pushed the throttle forward and the boat sped up its bow coming up out of the water. She smiled enjoying the feel of the wind on her face. It was a perfect day for boating, the water was calm making for a smooth ride. Her Dad headed the boat toward a cove where Gary said the fish were biting pretty good. It was late in the day, so the fish probably wouldn’t be biting but they’d give it a shot. If they didn’t have any luck, they’d get the water skiis out. They fished for about an hour and then gave up, nothing was biting. Daniel and Mindy took turns changing into their bathing suit in the small cabin compartment. They also pulled on wet suits that reached to their knees. The suits would help keep

them warm in the cold water. Mindy buckled a life jacket on before diving into the cold water from the back of the boat. Her Dad tossed the skis into the water, and she pulled them on. He then tossed her the ski rope, before slowly pulling the boat forward until the slack was taken out of the rope. She waved letting them know she was ready. The boat shot forward pulling her up onto her skis. She loved water skiing. It was a beautiful day to be on the water. They spent another couple hours on the lake before going in. Mindy was very pleased with her boat.
They spent the next couple days, fishing and skiing. They took several long cruises on the lake, enjoying the scenery. They got to see several mountain goats high up on the cliffs. In the evenings Mindy wandered the docks with Mandy and Ashley Morgan. They were Colby’s younger sisters, and Mindy had become good friends with them. Ashley was seventeen with long black hair. She was tall and slender, with the body of a model. Her breasts were small, but not too small. She had deep blue eyes, surrounded by long thick lashes. Mandy was the same age as Mindy. She had long blonde hair, and blue eyes. She was small in stature, the same height as Mindy. Her body was slender, with small breasts. The two girls were total hellions that drove their parents to distraction. It had gotten worse, since their two older brothers had moved to California. That left only Jeff, and he was too busy being a lawyer and chasing women. Ashley had taken full advantage of her brother’s total lack of attention. She had used his apartment while he was away visiting Doug and Colby. She had told her parents she was at a friend’s house, but

instead she had taken her boyfriend to her brother’s empty apartment. And she had promptly lost her virginity that night. Her boyfriend Mike had been nervous about using her brother’s apartment, but she’d gotten her way. She always got her way. She had been thrilled when Colby moved to California, he had been a definite problem. Her brother was psychic, she’d swear to it. He seemed to always know what she was thinking. She hoped she would be able to hide her lost virginity from him. Mike was three years older then her and would be starting his junior year at Washing State University that fall. He was studying to be an accountant a very boring career in her estimation, but she loved him anyway. They planned to marry as soon as he graduated from college. She was glad Mindy had come up for the fourth. Colby was always more distracted when Mindy was around. She would just avoid him as much as possible. She liked Mindy a lot, and she knew that Mindy was crazy about Colby, which was sad because Colby seemed to view Mindy as a friend and nothing more. He had been going with Teri for several years now. She couldn’t figure out what her brother saw in Teri. I mean sure she had a great body, but she was a selfish bitch. Everything was about her. She hoped her brother wouldn’t marry her, she thought Teri would make him miserable. Mindy was better suited for him, she was pretty Ashley thought. Not a raving beauty, but she did have big breasts, and guys liked that. Mindy was an open and honest friend who truly cared about others. She was also a lot of fun, and willing to try anything once. “Colby’s

suppose to be here in the morning.” He’s flying into Spokane late tonight, and will drive up here tomorrow.” Ashley told her as they walked along the dock. They were all dressed in shorts and tank tops.

“I know.” Mindy answered her absently. She wondered what would happen when Colby arrived. She had never been nervous about seeing him before. Teri was at the lake with her folks waiting for Colby as well. Doug had already arrived with his wife Monica the day before. Mindy didn’t plan to spend much time around Colby, she really didn’t want to see him with Teri. She’d always been fine with Teri before. But everything had changed and now what had once been a dull ache was a stabbing pain. She had wanted to scratch Teri’s eyes out at Colby’s graduation, which was stupid, after all Teri was his girlfriend. Besides she took comfort in the fact that Colby had cheated on Teri with her. Colby’s brother Jeff was in a rotten mood, Amber had broken it off with him. She wasn’t surprised; she knew Amber had been unhappy for a while. For all his good looks Amber said he was lousy in bed. And she’d gotten tired of Jeff’s slam bam thank you ma’am bouts in bed. She wanted intimacy and more foreplay. Amber was taking the break up much better then Jeff. She had indicated on the phone that she was involved with someone else. But Mindy had been unable to discover whom.

She’s avoiding me Colby thought. He hadn’t seen her in three days. Between classes and work he was only home about five hours a day, and Mindy made sure she was out of the house while he was there. He missed her and he hated what had become of their friendship. She was leaving on Saturday to go home. He wondered

if he would get to see her before she left. They were supposed to go to dinner and a movie on Friday night, since that was his night off. But now he wasn’t sure she planned to go with him. He decided he would have to call her and see. Picking up the phone on his desk where he had been working, he dialed her number.
“Hello,” he smiled at the sound of her voice it was so different. She had a deep voice, which was unusual in a woman. But he liked the way it sounded. “Hi it’s me, I wanted to see if were still on for Friday night?”
“Why, are you backing out?” She tried to sound as if it didn’t matter.
“No, but I haven’t seen you lately so I wanted to make sure that was still the plan.” Colby assured her.
“That’s still the plan.” Mindy replied after a moment of consideration. She’d never been reluctant to see him before, but things had changed. Still she missed him, and wanted to see him.
On Friday night Mindy met Colby at his house at five o’clock. They left his house and headed to dinner. Colby had made reservations at Gino’s, a fine Italian restaurant that Mindy had discovered. It was her favorite restaurant. Gino adored her and she always got star treatment at the restaurant. For his part Gino owed Mindy a lot. Mindy had fallen in love with the restaurant and brought all her friends to it. And of course she had brought her good friend Tom Conner and his wife to Geno’s. Tom was a big star, with lots of movie star friends. And he had told all those friends about Geno’s. So over night Geno’s had become a celebrity hot

spot. His tables were booked every night of the week. People made reservations months in advance. The waiting list to get a reservation was long and distinguished. But Mindy had her own table and could get in to eat anytime. Geno kept her table in storage, and rolled it out whenever she or Colby called. For her part Mindy didn’t think she had done anything that deserved the fuss she got at Geno’s. All she had done was bring Tom and Nic in to eat, because the food was great. It was Tom that had brought in all the stars. Having her own table would have been enough, but she also had her own tab. And Geno insisted on charging her the original menu prices. He had raised his prices considerably when he became a celebrity hot spot. And Mindy had a fight every time she went to pay off her monthly tab. Because Geno would gladly give her meals free of charge. But she insisted on paying her tab. And she had learned to pay in cash, since Geno would conveniently not cash her checks. And she kept her own records, because Geno would forget to add items to her tab. As a result she usually paid the hostess when Geno was in back. Geno’s was packed when they arrived for their six o’clock reservation. But her table was set and ready and they were seated immediately. Mindy’s table was located in a back corner, which had been her choice. She could have had a center location, but she preferred the back, which afforded her a view of the whole restaurant. It also gave her an opportunity to greet many of the celebrities already seated. Mindy spoke to everyone, whether she knew him or her well or not. They all knew she was a close friend of Tom’s, and that she was a writer. She had the kind of personality that drew people. And anyone, who met her, always remembered her. She left a lasting impression. It took them twenty minutes to cross the room to their table. But Colby was used to her parades through Geno’s and he waited patiently, while she talked to various people. He was introduced to everyone she talked to, but stayed quietly in the background. This was her realm, where she shone the brightest. When they finally made it to their table, Geno was waiting to take their orders. Colby looked at the menu, but she studied the room. She had a favorite that she always ordered. There were some big names in the room tonight. Several Producers and a couple big movie execs. She was most interested in the movie executives; she needed some contacts inside the many movie studios. Knowing Geno he would drag her over to their tables to introduce her. He was always doing that. “I’ll have the usual Geno.” Mindy told him handing back the unused menu. “Looks like you’ve got a pretty good crowd in here tonight.”
“There are some big names tonight.” Geno replied proudly. “Some big studio hot shots over there.” He said with a nod of his head toward them.
“I saw that. You’re really pulling them in Geno.”
“Yes, all thenks to you.” Geno replied gratefully.
“I keep telling you I didn’t do anything. I just brought Tom, it was your food that earned his referring all his star friends.” She replied smiling at several celebrities that had come in. “Excuse me, I’m just going to go over and say hello.” Mindy got up and headed over to greet a group of young stars. There was Pam Myers, Will Stokes, Jeff Miller, and Aubrey Miles. They all had new movies out, and promising careers. Mindy had met Will Stokes through Tom. Will Stokes was a very talented

young black actor. He’d gotten his start on a family comedy sitcom, which had led to a movie deal. He’d landed a supporting role in one of Tom’s films. He was an instant hit. At nineteen he had more scripts then he knew what to do with. Pam was also new to movies; she had started out as a model and caught a lucky break. She had been given a bit part in a movie, which had led to other offers. Jeff and Aubrey were new to the scene; they had both had small roles in recent hit movies. But from all accounts, they looked to have promising careers. “Hey girl, what are you doing in this neck of the woods?” Will asked, with a teasing glint in his eyes, before sweeping her into a bear hug.
“Okay, I can’t breath.” Mindy complained, she liked Will he was a real wise ass, but fun to be around.
Will released her and turned to introduce her to his friends. She smiled and greeted each of them, before returning to her table. She found Colby watching her, Geno having taken his order and left. “Sorry.” She said returning to her chair, which a hovering waiter quickly pulled out for her.”
“I’m used to it.” Colby said, watching her sit down and take a sip of the Italian soda in front of her. “Friends of yours?” Colby asked curious about the man who had hugged her.
“Will is, I hadn’t met the others before.” Mindy replied, digging into the basket of fresh bread sticks. She came to the restaurant just for the breadsticks. No one could compete with Geno’s breadsticks; they literally melted in your mouth. Dipping one into the sauce, she savored every bite.
“Where did you meet him?” Colby asked smiling as he watched her plow down a breadstick.
“I met him on the set of Tom’s last movie. He’s a real wise ass.” Mindy answered getting another breadstick from the basket. “So how was work, any interesting cases this week.” Mindy asked before biting into another breadstick.
“A couple tough one’s.” Colby replied taking a breadstick from the basket. He knew from experience that she would eat all of the bread if he didn’t get one pretty quick.
“What happened?” Mindy asked between bites.
Watching her start into her third breadstick he told her about his work week. The corner’s office had gotten a call at 2am and responded to the scene of what appeared to be a drug sell gone wrong. There were four bodies in all in a two-bedroom house. The inside of the house was riddled with bullets. They’d found the first body in the living room, not far from the front door. A black male that looked to be in his twenties had taken three rounds to the chest, and died where he fell onto his back. The second body was discovered in the kitchen laying face down in a pool of blood. Another black male, early twenties, he’d been shot twice in the back at close range. The third victim was found in a back bedroom. The victim a black kid, maybe sixteen was laying face down a crossed the bed, a bullet wound to the head. He was naked, his clothes lying next to the bed. The fourth victim was located in the closet of that same room, a young, white female, maybe fourteen, with a single gunshot to her chest. She had apparently grabbed the sheet off the bed to cover her

naked body when she ran to hide in the closet. The house was riddled with bullet holes. And blood from victims was sprayed a crossed the walls, and soaked into the carpet. Neighbors had reported the sound of gunfire, but the cops were too late. Colby described the whole thing from start to finish. Mindy listened intently while she ate she loved hearing the stories from his work. She felt sorry for the young woman that had been killed. By the time Colby finished his account, they had finished off their breadsticks and salads, and waiters were serving their main course. They ate quietly savoring the food and the comfort of being together for the first time in nearly a week. They kept the conversation light, neither bringing up their recent problems. When their plates had been cleared away, Colby looked over the bill and smiled.
“What?” Mindy asked seeing his smile.
“You’re a cheap date, you don’t eat anything.” Colby answered with a shrug.
“My stuffs not on there is it?” Mindy asked, already knowing the answer.
“I’ll let the waiter know.” Colby said setting his credit card down on the bill. He did point out the mistake to the waiter and was assured that the mistake would be taken care of. But when he brought the receipt back to be signed, Colby noted that nothing had been added.
“He didn’t fix it did he” Mindy asked? At his look, she mentally added the meal onto her tab. Getting up they started to leave.

“Ha I caught you.” Geno said coming up to them. “Mindy I want to introduce you to someone before you leave.” Geno told her steering them toward a table in the center of the room. Oh God! She thought recognizing the older man they were headed towards. Not Sam Martin, anyone but him. Sam was a notorious bastard, and one of the few people Mindy had always avoided. He was a very powerful man, who all but ran the movie scene. But he was known to be a very vengeful person if crossed. Seeing that Sam was their destination Mindy stopped suddenly causing Colby to run into her. She barely noticed being bumped; she was busy searching out an escape route. But it was too late; she realized as Geno started the introductions. “Ah Mr. Martin, I wanted to introduce you to a close friend of mine. This is Mindy Anderson; she’s a writer. She’s written several movies for Disney.” She groaned inwardly, did he have to bring up her being a writer. Stepping forward she shook the politely offered hand.
“Hi, and this is my boyfriend Colby Morgan he’s studying to be a medical examiner.” She literally shoved him toward Sam.
“Nice meeting you.” Sam acknowledged Colby shaking his hand. “It was nice meeting you Miss Anderson, I’ve heard good things about you. Good luck with your studies Mr. Morgan.” And with that they were politely dismissed. Mindy didn’t say another word she got the hell out of there. Colby caught up with her in the parking lot.
“What’s gotten into you?” He asked taking her arm.

“Nothing, I just don’t want to miss the movie.” She replied as they approached his corvette. He didn’t say anything just opened her door for her.
“So why did you nearly shove me onto Mr. Martin’s table.” Colby asked settling behind the wheel and starting the car.
“I wanted to introduce you to him.” She replied messing with the radio and the heater.
“Really?” He asked skeptically.
“What.” She asked innocently settling back in her seat.
“Since when do you throw out the fact that I’m studying to be a medical examiner?” He asked pulling onto the street.
“I was nervous.” She admitted. “Geno, shouldn’t have drug me over to meet him.”
“Why? What’s so big about that guy?” he asked switching lanes.
“He’s the most powerful man in Hollywood. He’s also a cranky old bastard, who enjoys ruining lives.” She replied gazing out the window.
He glanced at her; he had sensed her fear in the restaurant. She was afraid of Sam Martin.
“Sounds like he would make a powerful friend.” He commented turning right.
“He doesn’t have friends.” She commented glancing over at him.
“Maybe he needs one, sounds like an awful lonely lifestyle.” He replied getting onto the freeway.
“Could you read him?” She asked turning toward him.

“Yes.” He said simply. He had never been comfortable with his ability to see into other people’s minds.
“And?” She asked when he didn’t go on.
“He misses his wife; she died of cancer several years ago. He doesn’t have any children, which he regrets. He has a few distant relatives but none that he likes.” He answered reluctantly.
“Wow, I’m surprised you could read him. He must have pretty tough shields.” She was impressed.
“He didn’t have a shield, he feels safe and secure in himself. People like those don’t tend to shield themselves. Insecurity leads to tough shields for protection.” He commented getting off the freeway and slowing down. He made a right and headed down the street to a large mall that contained a movie complex. Finding a parking spot was a hassle on Friday nights. So they ended up walking a ways. Mindy was quiet mulling over what she had learned about Clair Martin. She hadn’t known that he was a widower. Not having close family would suck she thought. Suddenly she couldn’t help feeling sorry for the man. Maybe Colby was right; maybe what Clair Martin needed was a friend. She pushed aside her thoughts on Clair martin as they entered the theater. She had chosen a scary movie, and several times during the show she grabbed Colby’s arm in fright. It was a good movie, as she didn’t scare easily.